03 10 16 full issue

THE

M O N TA G E

Homeless: not hopeless

Many students pursue education despite housing crisis Story by Katie Hayes

Last semester, 10 students sought help from the Student Assistance Program (SAP) regarding housing.

This semester, four students have already approached SAP for housing assistance.

“We’ve had students that come in and they’re sleeping outside, but they come to school still,” Student Assistance Specialist Christina Hunter said. “They’re still motivated, which speaks a lot about the students here, but we definitely do as much as we can to help those students.”

While those students may not be identifiable to others,there are far more students without homes than SAP faculty previously assumed.

“It’s unbelievable to know how many students we have that are actually homeless,” Student Assistance Specialist and Manager Claire Martin said.

“They’re living out of their cars or they’re living out of shelters and they continue coming to school.”

SAP assists students who are in crisis, or in danger of entering a crisis. The program was previously called Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and only helped students who received public assistance. Two years ago, the program expanded their services to assist all students in need.

“We’ve opened up outside of TANF and renamed it Student Assistance to be inclusive of everyone that’s there,” Hunter said. “[We’re here] even for something that’s temporary or something that’s going on and students didn’t expect it to happen, or something that they’re dealing with currently.”

The Brown Bag Cafe, SAP’s most well-known and utilized resource, provides lunches for students who cannot afford them.

Story continued on Pg. 5

VOLUME 51, ISSUE 11 | THURSDAY MARCH 10, 2016 | www.meramecmontage.com

NEWS

2

Academic advisers urge students to visit office as program requirements change Every five years, STLCC reviews programs to update information Christian Hargas Sports Editor

When St. Louis Community College creates new courses or alters their programs, they go through a curricular process.

The STLCC Campus Committee changes requirements to some of their programs. The Campus Committee is always updating different programs, Dean of Humanities and Social Science Yvonne Johnson said.

STLCC identifies the purpose of the new course, the credit hours and how they will assess and evaluate student work and minimum requirements, Acting Vice President of Academic Affairs Janet Walsh said.

“We have always revised programs to make sure we are keeping them current,” Johnson said.

Some of the programs are accredited by an outside agency.

Some of those programs have different requirements that they have to meet, Walsh said.

“Sometimes, the profession and the discipline changes and we have to change how we teach in order to educate the students to meet the orders of the profession,” Walsh said.

A perfect example of this process might be some of the health care programs, Walsh said.

“Their accrediting bodies may say ‘now you have to start teaching this or you have to make sure you have this or that in your program’,” Walsh said. “If we do not have it, then we have to make a change.”

The program requirement changes might also be related to entrance requirements, Walsh said.

“Every five years, programs have to go through a program review for our internal review,” Walsh said. “Programs have to take a look at their student learning outcomes, their success rate in courses, the graduation rates of students, how many students have been in their programs, etc.

We look at all of those things.”

The program preview can be a long process, Walsh said.

“When we do a program review, we might determine that we do not have enough graduates or enough students that are passing,” Walsh said. “We take a deep look at that and we ask some tough questions. Typically, we are not making changes just to make changes. We look at the date, the number of students, graduates, success rates, failure rates, and what

the profession and organization says we need to be doing.”

The program requirement changes are for the student’s benefit as STLCC is making sure they are on track to graduation and future success, Johnson said.

“We want the students to succeed,” Johnson said. “We want the students to move on and complete their degrees.

We also want to make sure our students become more marketable and can get jobs.”

Program requirement changes can alter the length of time it takes for students to graduate by adding classes to their requirements.

Walsh said she understands potential student frustration.

“Having been a student many times in my career, if it changes the length of time until graduation, I would be upset,” Walsh said.

“If you think you are going to graduate in the spring of 2016 and all of a sudden the program says to you ‘didn’t you know you have to take this class’ and now you cannot graduate because they may not offer that class in the summer. By December 2016, that is another six or eight months where you could have applied for another job, got a job or went to another four-year school.”

Despite the requirement changes in certain programs, students under old catalogs should not have to change to a brand new catalog, Johnson said.

“Students under the old catalog can still complete their current catalog,” Johnson said.

Students working with the Academic Advising department are essential to their success, Academic Advising Manager Julie Massey said.

“It is a joint project between the advisers and the students,” Massey said. “We are helping students to make sure they succeed by exposing them to our services.”

It is important for the student, however, to be proactive and do their homework, Walsh said.

“If an adviser tells you something that just does not seem right or does not fit in with the homework you have done for what you need, then you need to ask questions,” Walsh said. “If an adviser says ‘no this is absolutely right’ and it still does not sink into your mind, then go to a department chair. I think students should never be afraid to ask questions.

Sometimes they are because they feel they should already know what to do. If there is a question in your mind, you should ask it.”

EDITORS Dalila Kahvedzic Jason Waters Katie Hayes Brittney Farrow Katie Leicht Christian Hargas Marissa Diercks Ashley Biundo Christaan Eayrs

Editor-In-Chief Production Manager News Editor Opinions Editor Art & Life Editor Sports Editor Graphics Editor Photo Editor Faculty Adviser

Proud member of March 10, 2016

Maybe STLCC needs to do a better job of encouraging the students to see advisers, Walsh said.

“When I see students and talk to them, I say ‘have you gone to see your adviser’ and they will say ‘no I am just looking at the rap sheets’,” Walsh said. “I would say ‘please make an appointment to touch base with them and make sure’. During the New Student Orientations now, [Academic Advising] really encourages that.

In the Smart Start class, they really encourage that also just to make sure students are on track.”

According to the Academic Advising syllabus, they strive to provide comprehensive services and support that every student needs to realize and achieve their educational goals. Keeping the student’s best interests in mind is important, Massey said.

Advisers hope students will have the ability to identify types of general education courses.

“We are trying to reach out to the students who do not utilize the advising services consistently,” Massey said. “We want more students to utilize the services that we offer.”

Photo by Katie Hayes Stephen Burkhard goes to Acadamic Advising Office for course scheduling assistance

Academic Advisor Mysha Clincy organizes student degree audits on the second floor of Clark Hall

MONTAGE STAFF Evan Carlen James Claiborne Alexis Austriaco Lexie Keller Patrick Niehaus Redwan Saeed Ian Schrauth Andrew Ameer Chloe Smith

Staff Writer Staff Writer Staff Writer Staff Writer Staff Writer Staff Writer Staff Writer Staff Writer Staff Designer

www.meramecmontage.com

Photo by Katie Hayes

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Editorial views expressed or content contained in this publication are not necessarily the views of St. Louis Community College, the board of trustees or the administration.

The Montage is a student publication produced seven times per semester at St. Louis Community College - Meramec, 11333 Big Bend Blvd., Kirkwood, Mo., 63122.

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Phone numbers and addresses will not be published. All letters are subject to editing for content and length. All letters submitted will be published in print and online.

NEWS

3

Campus Briefs

The Brown Bag Cafe is open from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. on Mondays, Thursday and Fridays while on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, they are open from 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. As of now, they have a total of 9,821 donated items for the cafe from the Nursing Department to give students who need a bite to eat.

“We have students in need and we have the cafe set up so that students won’t be embarrassed about asking for help,” Student Assistance Specialist Christina Hunter said.

Meet with area employers and learn about opportunities in your community!

Thursday, March 10, 2016

Eggs were thrown at a door of the Science West building. The eggs were all over the windows and door and difficult to clean.

Information gathered by Lexie Keller & Ashley Biundo

Academic Advising ● St. Louis Community College ● 11333 Big Bend Road ● St. Louis, MO 63122

ACADEMIC ADVISING

ST. LOUIS COMMUNITY COLLEGE AT MERAMEC PRESENTS:

COLLEGE TRANSFER FAIR 2016

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 30 10:00 A.M. TO 1:00 P.M. STUDENT CENTER COMMONS FOR

FURTHER INFORMATION ABOUT THIS

EVENT, PLEASE CALL

314.984.7588.

The following schools will be participating in the Spring 2016 College Transfer Fair: Central Missouri Methodist Columbia University Concordia University Culver Stockton College Fontbonne university Goldfarb School of Nursing Hannibal-Lagrange University

Lindenwood University Logan University Macmurray College Maryville University McKendree University Missouri Baptist University Missouri Southern State Univ.

Missouri State University

Missouri U—Science & Tech Missouri Western State Univ.

Murray Sate University Ranken Technical College St. Louis College of Pharmacy Saint Louis University Southeast MO State Southern ILL-Carbondale

Southern Ill-Edwardsville Truman State University Univ. of Central Missouri Univ. of MO-Columbia Univ. of MO-Kansas City Univ. of MO-St. Louis Washington University Webster University Westminster College William Woods University

St. Louis Community College is committed to non-discrimination and equal opportunities in its admissions, educational programs, activities and employment regardless of race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, genetic information or status as a disabled or Vietnam-era veteran and shall take action necessary to ensure non-discrimination. For information or concerns relating to discrimination matters, contact the following: for matters relating to disabilities, contact Section 504/Title II Coordinator Donna Dare at 314-539-5285; for matters relating to sex discrimination, contact Title IX Coordinator Pam McIntyre at 314-984-7763; for any other matters, contact Vice President, Student Affairs Kim Fitzgerald at 314-984-7609.

Accommodations statement: St. Louis Community College is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. If you have accommodation needs, please contact Tracy Lampkins at 314-984-7588 at least two working days prior to the event. Documentation of disability may be required.

March 10, 2016

NEWS

4

Missouri presidential preference primary comes in at full swing The March 15 election could change the course of the election on a national scale Brittney Farrow Opinions Editor

March 15 marks the date of the state of Missouri’s presidential preference primary — an event which allows registered voters in the state to choose their party’s preferred candidate, and to weigh-in on the issues surrounding this election.

In the primary elections of 2012, Democratic Presidential Candidate and sitting President of the United States Barack Obama took the majority of his party’s votes — 88 percent.

It was also the first time since 1996 that Missouri used a caucus to nominate delegates to the Republican National Convention.

Caucuses differ from the general primary elections due to the nature in which they are conducted.

Caucuses are meetings held between members of a particular political party to determine which candidates should be nominated to represent that particular group, and in some states — such as Iowa, Nevada and South Carolina — the results are public and often televised. According to Professor of Political Science John Messmer, the similarities between a caucus and a primary election lie mainly within the results.

“The whole point is to determine a nominee,” Messmer said. “The difference is in the journey. A caucus is a meeting.

It’s more labor-intensive. It provides a way for those who participate to have more say.”

Caucuses appeal to some because they give devoted members of a particular party some extra weight in the election, Messmer said.

This election season has varied from those in previous years in a few notable ways. While Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders and former New York Senator Hillary Clinton have polled at the top of the Democratic party, the Republican party has seen a wavering influx of interest in several varying candidates.

Since the ballot was delivered to voting offices many listed candidates have suspended their campaigns; Ben Carson officially dropped out of the race on March 4 after failing to maintain his initial early polling numbers; Jeb Bush ended his run in late February; Mike O’Malley dropped out after polling at less than one percent at the Iowa caucus.

Assistant Professor of Political Science Emily Neal believes this election differs from others due to the longevity of the competition within parties. Revisions made to state voting laws have encouraged a longer discussion about who should run each party, Neal said.

“The divisions between current presidential candidates reflects the division we’re facing as a country,” Neal said, “What I find problematic about [this election] is that in 2016 we have a candidate supporting discrimination and running a campaign on a discrimination agenda.” It is the responsibility of journalists and of society to call out discrimination, Neal said. Neal believes that

VOTE! March 15

Graphic By Marissa Diercks

when journalists do not address this discrimination they are passively supporting the position.

During his campaign, Republican party frontrunner Donald Trump has taken an active stance against immigration, and has been vocal about his views on foreign policy. Several statements he has made during his own rallies and speeches have prompted some voters to express concerns of racism — particularly islamophobia.

“On the Republican side it’s a circus due to the unusual candidacy of Donald Trump,” Messmer said, “I’ve never seen such a dispute

and discontinuity [with the same party]. There’s an outright public hostility between candidates.

This election will be talked about 20 or 30 years from now because what we’ve seen is so unique.”

Missouri does not allow registered voters to place an early vote, but there is absentee voting for those who will not be able to make it to an election spot on March 15. “[The primaries] are important because they determine who has the resources to run the party, and they tell the party representative which issues to make central to their campaign,” Neal said.

This election in particular has garnered quite a bit of attention from younger voters aged 1825. According to a study from the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement at Tufts University, voter turnout for people aged 1829 reached a new low in 2014.

Despite a general youth interest in candidate Bernie Sanders, it is inconclusive whether or not the youth vote could sway the election.

“College students should care because it affects them. Politics are affected by those who participate in the process,” Messmer said.

STLCC hires three new administrators Vice Chancellor of Finance and Administration

Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs

Chief Information Officer

Paul Zinck

Rod Nunn

Ginny Schorle

“My immediate plans are to become more familiar with our student affairs professionals across the district and to better engage them on our shared work in the future,” Nunn said. “I also hope to increase our collaboration with academic affairs. We all know that student retention, student learning and institutional effectiveness are enhanced when academic affairs and student affairs professionals are working together to address the full spectrum of student needs.”

“We are ambassadors for the college and make a positive difference in a student’s STLCC experience,” Schorle said. “Our devoted IT staff strives to provide technology that assists all college constituents in performing their studies or work duties. I like to say “IT is having our best day when you forget we are here.”

That means things are going well and you have everything you need to be productive.”

“I am thrilled at the opportunity to work with the many tremendous people at St. Louis Community College to help prepare our students for success,” Zinck said. “I plan to work closely with the board of trustees, chancellor, faculty and staff to tie the District’s allocation of resources to the strategic plan going forward. We’ll work together to ensure financial stability for the College now and in the future.”

Layout by Katie Hayes

March 10, 2016

NEWS

5

Student Assistance Program expands services to help all students in crisis Continued from page 1 Katie Hayes News Editor

“Since I’ve been homeless this time, I’ve actually gained weight,” Meramec student Scott Roy said. “I think it’s because I’m eating on a more regular basis. I mean, the food is there, so I’ll get a plate and I’ll eat it. And I’ll eat [at Meramec]. Before, maybe I didn’t get as hungry all the time, I was used to eating less, but now it’s easier for me to get food.”

Roy, who is set to graduate this spring with his associate in applied science degree in graphic communications, often uses the Brown Bag Cafe for lunch.The only places he eats are at the Brown Bag Cafe or the shelter where he stays.

“I could have food stamps, but they’re a hassle,” Roy said.

“They never mailed me a card again and I had my phone turned off trying to talk to them. I’ve got food at the shelter and then there’s the Brown Bag Cafe and so it’s okay to let the food stamps go.”

Roy has attended Meramec since 2010 and currently has a graphic design internship at the Cosand Center this spring with the marketing and communications department.

“It’s like, for five years, I’ve been walking along this road, this treacherous road that could have been better, but because of things I needed to learn, it was harder than maybe it needed to be,” Roy said. “Now I’m going to actually get to see fruits of it.”

Roy’s internship is once per week for academic credit.

“For me, that is like the highlight of my week,” Roy said.

“I will get caught up in that

mindframe, in that routine, so I get out of my routine a little bit. Also for me, that is the accumulation and the fruit for what I’ve been doing for the last five years.”

The shelter where Roy currently stays hosts people for 90 days, but they then must leave for 90 days before returning.

“Every shelter has a time limit as far as how long students can stay there,” Hunter said. “Some students, they can stay there for a few nights — others six weeks.

So we’ll take whatever amount of time that is and try to get them into permanent housing. We may have to get them into several different shelters before we can get them permanent housing, but we try to just do it as quickly as possible. Sometimes it may take several weeks to a month to get someone in permanent housing, but again we try to do it quickly.”

Martin said while there are low-income apartments in St. Louis, the process is long and people remain on the waitlist for four to five years. Typically, the quickest solution is a shelter.

Fellow Student Assistance Specialist Christina Hunter said SAP has placed students in shelters as soon as the same day a student requested assistance.

“Let’s say [students] are in a crisis and need to be in a shelter right away,” Hunter said. “We can get them in that shelter and then continue to work with them to get permanent housing. There are a lot of steps along the way, but we can help a student through every single step — and we do.”

Although shelters are considered a last resort when assisting students, many students don’t have people they feel comfortable reaching out to.

Photo by Katie Hayes

Meramec student Scott Roy explains his daily routine as he walks his usual campus route.

“If they do, we encourage them to reach out to a friend or family member,” Martin said. “If they don’t, then we look at other options — such as housing. We give them referrals for housing.

Sometimes we will be on the phone with them making those kind of calls. So they make some calls, we make some calls, and together we come up with a solution.”

The reasons for housing trouble vary student-tostudent — finances, troubles at home, difficulty keeping a job — but, the few resources a student does have affects the difficulty of their experience.

“It’s a little different for everybody,” Roy said. “Some people have cars, some people

have jobs, some people want jobs, some people don’t. There are lots of different reasons people are homeless and that affects our attitudes and our abilities and our choices that we make and stuff.”

Students also have to decide whether post-secondary education financially makes sense for them — and to many it does.

While minimum-wage in Mo. is higher than the national average, the employment reality still appears bleak to many students.

“A lot of those jobs, they’re not only minimum wage, but they’re not steady jobs in the sense that they’ll schedule you when they need you and if they don’t need you, they’ll send you home,” Roy said. “And you don’t

Photo by Katie Hayes

Roy explains his bus routes to Cosand Center, Meramec and the shelter where he currently stays at the campus bus station.

get scheduled a lot. And now with Obamacare, anything that’s 30 hours, gets insurance so they won’t even want to give people 30 hours.”

While taking college courses is difficult during financial turmoil, many Meramec students continue to pursue education even if it takes years to obtain a degree.

“I never tell a student there’s no way you can’t do that, because I don’t know that,” Hunter said. “I can’t determine that just based off of just talking to someone. But what I can do is give them the tools to try their hardest to get there and equip them as much as possible to get there. Then after that it’s up to the student to make those choices to do those things to get to that goal.”

During Roy’s last semester before completing his degree, he has special permission to stay in the Central for Visual Technology (CVT) Lab past his shelter’s curfew.

“The CVT Lab closes at like eight o’clock at night,” Roy said.

“We’re supposed to be in [the shelter] by nine o’clock. If you’re not in there, you can’t come in at night and you’re only allowed one night out a week. I can be here until like eight o’clock and then catch a bus and get back late because they know I’m not just coming in late because I’m some homeless bum. I’m coming in late because I’m actually doing something productive.”

While at least 14 students have asked SAP for housing assistance since Aug. 2015, both Martin and Hunter believe more students are homeless or severely struggling to simultaneously afford education and housing.

“A lot of times [students] feel like when they’re in a crisis, it’s just them and that no one else has gone through it and no one understands and knows,” Hunter said. “And a lot of times yes, students’ situations are unique, but they’re not alone and it’s not just them. There are a lot of people who have been going through the same things that they’ve been going through and have come out okay and have been successful.”

March 10, 2016

6

OPINIONS

End the sugar rush: healthier is better

Junk food is better suited for fire fuel than for ingestion Evan Carlen Staff Writer

Why is it that so many pantries of the American youth are replete with junk food? Why are so many fridges overflowing with soft drinks? Parents, you are subjecting your children to poor nutrients before they even have a chance to make their own food decisions. After years of relying on a refined sugar and an artificial diet, these children know nothing else and continue on with their unhealthy habits not knowing it could lead to their later demise.

That is why all of the parents out there need to remove the problem from birth instead of battling a teenager who craves nothing but sugar later on. Most parents would never buy their baby a formula filled with inorganic ingredients, so why is it that as soon as Billy’s teeth come in he is munching down a can of Pringles with a soda? I know it sounds remedial but what a child eats is what is going to fuel all of the billions of chemical reactions going on inside their bodies at any given moment. Do you want to fill them up with unleaded fuel just to get them through the day, or premium so they can develop optimally?

Yes, there is a right answer.

I find it very selfish of parents

to pass on their poor eating habits to their children. Loving your children in my eyes means doing everything in your power to keep them safe and healthy. Unless your child is trading the Cheetos in his lunchbox to Johnnie for his avocado — unlikely — then you are undermining their health.

Instead, Billy needs to be leaving the cafeteria with salad stuck in his teeth. That way, you are establishing good habits for him without him knowing it. He is not going to be having those sugar cravings if he was never exposed to refined sugar in the first place.

My dad operated this way and I did not know I was any healthier or different from other children my age until I got to high school.

I never missed cookies before and by that time I knew enough to appreciate what he had done for me in my youth. The fruits, vegetables and fish only tasted sweeter after learning the hand they played in all aspects of my development.

Unfortunately, however, many individuals do grow up in poisonous households. One of my friends is such an individual. Luckily she has since come to the green side and appreciates even more than me the benefits a healthy diet provides.

She commonly raves about her energy levels going through the roof and not having the baggage of strong sugar cravings.

All this being said, it is time

Graphic by Marissa Diercks

to put all that junk food to good use: firewood. You would be surprised how well refined sugar burns. Need proof ? Recently on

Respect for elders: does the concept still exist?

Since my own childhood, parenting has gone soft Alexis Austriaco Staff Writer

Has the concept of respect changed much since the ‘90s? I remember when I was a kid, if I would talk back to my dad or do something stupid, I would have to run to the bathroom and lock

the door behind me to avoid a potential butt-whooping. That never worked, and when he was able to reach me to scold me, l would never call him names, yell at him or hit him. Many of my friends also grew up in that time and told me similar stories about what would happen if they disrespected their parents. We had this in common: we did not,

because it would not go over well.

There is a difference between a butt-whooping and abuse.

Abuse should never happen to a child, but a spanking, in my opinion, is sometimes what a child needs to learn some respect for their parents; however, not many parents seem to do that these days.

If kids were to disrespect a teacher in the ‘90s when I was

Mythbusters, they used nothing but gummy bears as rocket fuel.

So unless you want your child to reach for the moon, throw out

the junk and give them the food they need for proper development.

The longevity of your child depends on you.

growing up, they would get a belt to the bottom. In current days, however, if a kid talks back to a teacher there are hardly any repercussions.

Another problem with this is that a lot of parents blame the teacher for why their child is disrespectful.

Now not all kids are like this, but working as a server I have noticed that kids are getting really

ornery in general -- in addition to doing vile and disrespectful things to their parents, grandparents and teachers. The first thing I noticed is that when a parent or an adult is talking to their child usually the proper thing for the child to do is to respond. Instead the child decides to yell, ignore them (especially if they are playing a video game on their tablet), give them attitude or — better yet — hit them.

It is not only the kid’s fault, it is the parents too. I remember serving a table of a dad and two kids and the dad told the son repeatedly that he cannot get a smoothie. So instead of the son understanding that he cannot get a smoothie, he had to have it his way. The little demon hit his father in the face. As a result, the father was inclined to reward him by getting him that smoothie.

That would not slide if I had done that; I would have had to run to the bathroom in another country and bolt that door permanently shut. In the end, though, the kids are not to blame for why they are becoming more disrespectful since the past two decades it is mostly the parents who have changed. Parents are too afraid or too lazy to properly discipline their children. Parents in the ‘90s were not as afraid to discipline their kids as they are now, so now kids get away with a lot more and become more disrespectful to their elders. Because of that, it is hard to believe that the concept of respecting your elders ever existed.

Graphic by Marissa Diercks

March 10, 2016

OPINIONS

7

The big vote: is participating in elections really important?

At the end of the day, regardless of how it feels, it matters Brittney Farrow Opinions Editor

Regardless of how we perceive politics and regardless of how little most people care to stomach the grueling 18 months of election season, one thing is for certain: voting is important.

Earlier this Monday afternoon I asked my boss if I could leave work an hour early to take a trip to the Board of Elections office and place my absentee vote.

I did this despite the inconvenience it added to my already hectic day because years ago when I became old enough to legally participate in the voting process I promised myself that I would always make sure to do my part — to participate in one of the most level playing fields our country has to offer its people.

Putting aside a mountain of school assignments, work projects and Spring Break preparations, I stood in a mundane line of people and waited my turn to finally make my political preferences known.

After filling out a mint green form and flashing my driver’s license to the desk clerk I was guided to an electronic screen with a ballot full of candidates from my party.

Taking no more than two seconds to select my preferred choice, I quickly moved on and

went about my day. My younger sister — finally old enough to participate herself — waited for me by the door. She was smiling; she was proud of herself.

She had no quirky sticker telling everyone what she had done, and there is a chance I am the only person who knows who she voted for, but I could see on her face that she felt like she had done something important — and she had.

I remember the rush of my first presidential election. While people twice my age had already been somewhat disillusioned by the tedious nature of it all, I was excited. I was 18 years old — just finally old enough to be an adult. I was away from home, living in a dorm with friends and acquaintances I had chosen singlehandedly and finally making myself the person I was supposed to be.

I followed every debate with vigor; I sparked intellectual discussions and read up on the

issues. I wanted to feel important.

Even with a handful of people I knew telling me my vote would not matter, I woke up early and checked my boxes. I wanted to feel as if I had at least actively tried to make a difference, even if it was small one.

As naive as it sounds, I

some of those people still do.

The numbers are daunting, I know. Elections involve terminology and processes that can be confusing and boring. I will not pretend to be an expert on politics, nor will I lecture people about why they need to pick a candidate on a computer or piece of paper.

I do believe, though, with every ounce and fiber of my being that if someone has even the smallest a m o u n t of faith in someone running for office that they should make their vote count. The politician I picked this year addressed all of my anxieties and appealed to all of my concerns; they were someone I feel I can believe in — which is something that I doubt will happen every four years.

I will not “Uncle Sam” anyone; I will not metaphorically shower someone with patriotism and beg them to care. If the passion is not there, do not vote; but if it is, do — and feel good about it.

“As naive as it sounds, I considered myself lucky. Lucky to have the right to dabble in democracy when some cannot.”

considered myself lucky. Lucky to have the right to dabble in democracy when some cannot; lucky to have a say in the future of the country I live in; lucky, even, to be able to state illinformed opinions on social media without fear of censorship.

Not everyone has such a privilege. There was a time when women had to fight for their voice; there was a time when people of color had to fight for their voice. In less literal ways,

It seems as if so often we take advantage of the luxuries we have been provided because we do not feel as if they are significant enough to acknowledge.

In my opinion, nothing is more significant than having a voice — having a say in what our world could be like. What would our society be like if we did not actively participate in the formation of our government? What kind of practices would we maintain?

As this staff ’s resident loud and obnoxious editor, I am trying my best to keep my political preferences out of this piece. I am not going to share who I voted for, or try to make a case for or against my candidate’s opponents. That does not matter.

What does matter is the silence. The omission and unintentional agreements we make toward a certain agenda by refusing to acknowledge or correct it. In a time where so many issues are important and so many concerns are relevant, by not voting we sweep any possible solutions under a metaphorical rug.

I do not want to be a part of a culture which aims to turn us against each other, nor do I want to encourage a society where we allow our fears to dictate the people who get to make a life in our country.

It is that very reason — and for that very purpose that I vote.

Illustration by Brittney Farrow

March 10, 2016

8

INDEPTH

THE IPHONE CONTINGENCY Apple vs FBI: What's the deal?

Katie Leicht | Art & Life Editor

The feud between Apple and the Federal Bureau of Investigation began in early february when they gained custody of the iPhone 5c which belonged to Syed Rizwan Farook, the man behind the San Bernardino terror attack that left 14 individuals dead.

With the FBI having access to the phone, they can find out potential information about the shooting, including the names and contact information of other terrorists or even evidence of other planned attacks. The FBI has no real access to any of this information due to

the fact that Farook's iPhone has a passcode.

The FBI has asked Apple to help access the contents of the phone, but unfortunately for the FBI, Apple refused to cooperate.

The government is capable of using mass-surveillance and tracking technology, but cannot surpass the legal complications when it comes to Apple's privacy policies.

The problem is that once this "break in" is done, it can be used again according to cryptography researcher Dr. Yehuda Lindell.

Knowing this is possible will make

it easier for others to find out how. Apple is not arguing about technical feasibility; it is concerned with legal precedent.

If the government can make it easier to unlock your iPhone, it would allow access into anyone's device. Apple fears that once you create one backdoor, other agencies and governments will come calling for access, (according to engadget.com.) If Apple created this iOS system for the FBI, there would be no true way to keep it out of the hands of hackers to use for personal reasons.

Campus Poll: "With who do you Stand?"

Student's opinions on Apple's stance against the FBI

Do you have a warrant?

The ethics of national security and liberty Patrick Niehaus | Staff Writer

The issue regarding the violation of civil liberties of American citizens in response to terrorism seems to not be a concern to some; however, it is a constant reminder of why things are the way they are in the United States. Shortly after the September 11 terrorist attacks, new security measures at airports across the country were installed.

“It was a big deal here when I went to Israel,” Dr. Emily Neal said, professor of Political Science at STLCC-Meramec. “I landed over there and asked why they didn't have the scanners we did. They said that it doesn't work.

The attacks will happen regardless.”

Though the issue is not as much of a problem among the public as it was, it was considered a violation of privacy at the time and still is today to some. Because of the Patriot Act and the new found powers of the federal government to fight terrorists, there was no precedent set on where to draw the ethical and moral lines between liberty and security.

The Patriot act was passed swiftly through the United States Congress having only 67 votes of dissent against it in both the house and the senate. At the time, many Americans were afraid for their safety, between Anthrax attacks and terrorists hitting too close to home. The fear of the American people was used to help gain support for the bill that can suspend Habeas Corpus, take away ones memorandum rights, as well as strip them of their protection of unlawful search and seizure under the Fourth Amendment of the United States Constitution.

Since the bill became law on Oct. 25, 2001, there has been a growing debate as to the constitutionality of the law, as well as its legal, moral and ethical limits.

“There was a supreme court case in 2008 that decided that people being held at Guantanamo Bay [Cuba] as a resultof the Patriot Act were still allowed to have a lawyer,” Neal said. “The connection

March 10, 2016

to Meramac, is if you create a back door for the FBI, who says a student can't find a way in also?

And then start harassing teachers, staff members or other students over their phone.”

Apple's response for denying the FBI access is an argument that has been used before with mixed results. They questioned the ethical and moral lines that they might be crossing if they did so. They were asking how much power is too much power, with regards to the federal government.

Their concerns were of the same nature as those when the United States was born in 1776; due to similar problems revolving around the centralization of power in government.

Apples fear's were, that if they gave the FBI a way to access the private information of their customers, many of whom are American citizens, that they would soon be subjected to other branches of the federal government wanting the same thing. Much like the Edward Snowden incident with the National Security Agency's and their collection of private information using the Patriot Act and national security

as a justification to do so, it just happened to be a multibillion dollar corporation instead of one man.

In the wake of the shooting in San Bernadino, Calif.

The topic has once again been

renewed as a topic for debate, in part due to the legal battle between the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Apple Incorporated.

The FBI's argument was not just one of national security, but a question of ethical lines on

Apple's part as well, Neal said.

“The ethical question now becomes, is Apple doing this for the good of the people and civil liberties, or are they doing this as a business decision?” Neal Said.

The FBI's argument challenged the motives of Apple's Decision in federal court, though ultimately ruling in favor of Apple.

Who were concerned not only about the federal government's wish to access their customers information, but that of the unforeseen consequences it could have on private citizens also.

“People are very clever and ingenious,” Neal said, “We can not underestimate that.”

The issue of sacrificing our civil liberties in the name of security has been long and complex debate since the founding of the United States, both sides of the argument have made valid points for their side, though the debate is still on going, but like Benjamin Franklin said, “Those who surrender freedom for security will not have, nor do they deserve, either one.”

Déjà vu | Simlar cases in American History 1928 Olmstead v. The United States

Supreme Court case which reviewed whether or not wiretapped telephone conversations which were obtained without judicial approval and used as evidence constituted the defendant’s constitutional rights. The court ruled the defendant’s rights had not been violated.

4 United States Supreme Court case that discussed the right to privacy and the legal definition of a search. Refined interpretations of the unreasonable search and seizure clause of the Fourth Amendment. Overturned Olmstead v.

United States.

1967 Katz v. The United States

INDEPTH

9

The Pew Poll

The public favors the FBI over Apple "Everyone’s phone is their own privacy but then again this was serious [the San Bernardino attack]. People died because of this."

11% Unsure

Ashley Mayuga Interior Design

58%

36%

In Favor of the FBI

In Favor of Apple

"What Apple is standing for is making sure the government doesn’t have all the power.

They could just go in and take whatever they want."

Ryan Ernst Information Systems

Information from the Pew Research Center

The concern with FBI Intervention Ian Schrauth | Staff Writer

"I agree with Apple not relaying the information to the FBI. Though it’s potentially precious information, the ends don’t justify the means. Just because we could get useful information doesn’t mean the FBI would stop there. If we were to give that inch (being the information from criminals) the FBI would then take a mile."

Lauren Chapin Transfer Studies

Apple has been to court with the FBI since February 2016 in regards to their privacy policy.

Some people believe that Apple should allow the FBI to have access to the iPhone, but others believe that Apple did the right thing when they refused them access.

Professor of informational systems at STLCC – Meramec, Robert Oberst, believes that the FBI is taking this a step too far and most companies have sided with Apple in agreement that it is an invasion of privacy.

“We have already had enough of our rights eroded anyway,” Oberst said.

Oberst believes the situation is a slippery slope, he said, but if he was the CEO of Apple, he would not allow the

FBI access to get into the iPhone either.

“I think that they can find information other ways, and I strongly resist it,” Oberst said.

Individuals believe that the privacy on their phones cannot be cracked, but they are wrong, Oberst said. Although phones do have high levels of encryption, institutions like the FBI have the technical power to decrypt it.

“It’s one of those areas that will become much more important in the future, and I think everybody has to decide how comfortable they feel with the use of their information by anybody who is not themselves," Oberst said. "Because our information is part of us and we shouldn’t be giving it out without any specifications."

Brittney Farrow | Opinions Editor

2010 United States v.

Warshak

Held that government agents violated the defendant’s Fourth Amendment rights by compelling his Internet Service Provider (ISP) to turn over his emails without first obtaining a search warrant based on probable cause.

4

2014 United States v.

Wurie

The police generally may not, without a warrant, search digital information on a cellphone seized from an individual who has been arrested.

4 United States Supreme Court case which ruled that installing a GPS on a vehicle to track movement required a search warrant under the Fourth Amendment.

2012 United States v.

Jones

United States Supreme Court case which held that the unwarranted search and seizure of digital contents from a cell phone during arrest were unconstitutional.

2014 Riley v.

California

Illustration and Page Design by Jason Waters March 10, 2016

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ART & LIFE

11

National Weather Service’s Jim Kramper conducts Storm Spotter class

Sky Club hosts weather presentation for the public for the third consectutive year The class is taught by Jim Kramper, the Warning Coordination Meteorologist of the National Weather Service.

This specific class has been held on campus for the third year in a row according to the club’s sponsor, Professor Joe Schnieder. As for Kramper, he has been teaching the classes for much longer.

“It’s actually longer than 24 years; way back in 1990,” Kramper said.

Kramper is certified to teach this class due to his job title.

Katie Leicht “It was the job I got, when I first Art & Life Editor was hired with the weather service On March 3, The Sky Club I went up to Cheyenne, Wyoming, hosted a Storm Spotter Class, in I was just an intern getting started the Meramec Theatre. The class learning, you gotta start at the is an informative presentation on bottom to learn,” Kramper said. how to properly spot different He started to do some types of weather and also how work in Wyoming with some to correctly inform the National of the local schools which Weather Service (NWS) on what included some preparedness is happening in a specific area. activities and safety information.

“I did it as a project; a winter drill for the entire state which had never been done before. So I started to get into it then,” Kramper said.

F r o m there, Kramper only succeeded further in his career.

“I moved up the ladderthere was an opening at an office in Little Rock, which was really more full time doing that kind of work. You still do some forecasting but you spend a lot of your time doing safety stuff, training and start teaching spotters so I applied for it and I got it.

Photo by Katie Leicht Jim Kramper, the Warning Coordination Meteorologist of the National Weather Service, So that’s when I really first giving the introduction to the Storm Spotter class in the Meramec Theatre.

started training outside people for severe storms,” Kramper said.

He then received another promotion to St. Louis, still doing the same type of work, only to an advanced program making it at a higher level.

Kramer has his Bachelor of Science degree in metrology.

“That’s as far as I went. A lot of people now a days have a masters degree but a bachelors is all that is required,” Kramper said. “When I got out of school, I was done with school, I wanted to work and so luckily I got a job.”

Kramper’s career allows him time away from the standard office job.

“The job I have; I don’t sit in the office everyday, I’m out. I work with anything from the public to state and local government,” Kramper said.

of direct support for them [the government],” Kramper said.

The event presented by Kramper is free and open to the public. He goes in depth on how thunderstorms are produced, how to properly measure snowfall, how to tell the difference between a funnel cloud and an actual tornado and many more different aspects of weather.

The full presentation lasts from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. and has an intermission. By completing this class, one will recieve a special card with a number on it. This number is what one would use to give to the NWS when calling in to report any type of weather.

The NWS does not have an app but one can access the weather through their website which is mobile compatible. On the iPhone, visit mobile.weather.

“If you have 30,000 people at an event, weather can be a problem...”

For example, he is the main contact for the State of Missouri Government. He works with everybody from the governors office to the state emergency management agency department of public safety, Kramper said.

“I’m their contact, I go to a lot of their training sessions,” Kramper said.

Weather is part of everyday life for humans on Earth, so being informed is vital.

“If you have 30,000 people at an event, weather can be a problem, so we are getting into doing a lot

gov using Safari. Then choose “add to home screen” and tap “add.” This will add it to the home screen.

For Android users, visit moblie.weather.gov using Google Chrome. Click the menu button and choose “add to homescreen.”

If all goes as planned, Kramper will return again next Spring to give the class, which he very thoroughly enjoys.

“A lot of people in the weather service say the job I have is the best job in the whole organization, so a lot of us who have the job agree,” Kramper said.

Double Take: On Campus Celebrity Look Alike Katie Leicht Art & Life Editor

Tim Robbins

Ed Ucinski

Andy Dufresne in The Shawshank Redemption, 1994

Meramec Campus Police Officer, 2016 March 10, 2016

ART & LIFE

12

“Sometimes you can’t see yourself clearly until you see yourself through the eyes of others.”

- Ellen DeGeneres

Old world to ‘New World’: three refugee women’s stories of adjustment Meramec hosts a one-act play to depict refugee women in United States Dalila Kahvedzic Editor-In-Chief

We take for granted, as Americans, that people come to our country because the pain they went through in their old world was so bad, Executive Director and founder of Gitana Productions, Cecilia Nadal said. They have hopes to create a new world.

On Feb. 25 at the Meramec Theatre, a one-act play – ‘New World’ – took place.

“We were approached by the Center for Survivors of Torture and War Trauma and they said – ‘would you write a play that would help people understand the experience that refugee women have coming to the United States that tells their stories before they actually get here?’” Nadal said.

“And we loved that because our mission is all about giving more information about people who are different to bring more people together.”

With all the refugees that are coming into the United States and into St. Louis, they thought this would be a good time to tell the story behind the faces of these new people that St. Louisian’s are seeing, Nadal said.

“So we did interviews. The playwright, Lee Patton Chiles, actually did interviews with people that I and the center connected her to and they were Afghan women, Congolese women, and Bosnian women.

She got their stories,” Nadal said.

The purpose of this play is for people to look at refugees as people, Nadal said.

“We just take for granted as Americans that people are coming here because this is a place to make a lot of money and get jobs – but some people are here because the pain was so bad in the old world that they needed to come somewhere where there was home and I want them to see that and to feel it at the heart level, and they will in this play.

They will feel that,” Nadal said.

The hardest accommodations for the actors, Nadal said, was to step into the shoes of other cultures because none of the three girls represented them.

Two of the actors are Latina (Sherri Gonzalez and Jessica Alvarado) and one of the actors is African American ( Jeanitta Perkins) but they represented Congolese, Afghan and Bosnian women.

to get the human and emotional side of refugees being here.”

The actors looked online to learn the dialect.

“We watched a lot of youtube videos that helped just kind of take on the dialect,” actor Genina Perkins said.

Another actor, Sherry Gonzalez, learned by listening to individuals from Bosnia speak.

“I’ve worked and spoken with some people from Bosnia so that’s how I learned,” Gonzalez said.

Director Vivian Anderson Watt said the actors came to rehearsal period for two weeks but only met for two Saturday’s to rehearse, and she was honored to be a part of it.

“This was written by Lee Patton Chiles and I was really honored to do it because it touched so many hearts of so many women around the world,” Watt said. “Not just Afghanistan, Bosnian and Congolese w o m e n , but women all around the world.”

During a question and answer session after the play, an audience member asked how the refugees can be protected as they are going through this difficult adjustment period, with all the extreme hostile talk in media.

“I think this is one step,” Bulin said. “Giving you all a sense of what a refugee is rather than just fleeing, getting on a plane and coming here. There’s so much more to it, I think that’s very critical.”

Actor Jessica Alberato also responded and said that we as individuals should

“We are all individuals, we all have our different stories and experiences...”

The actors participated in conversations with the reallife, old-war victims to get a feel for what happened when they lived through a war.

“To step so totally into the shoes of another culture takes a lot of giving up of yourself,” Nadal said. “You’ll see that the emotional side of this is so heavy that they had to get rid of their baggage – and isn’t it true? That that’s what we have to do when we meet people who are different? We have to step into their shoes. This is a great opportunity for people

Jessica Alberato, an Afghan refugee. reminiscs on happy times at her grandfather’s house, before he was shot to death by soldiers.

March 10, 2016

Photos by Dalila Kahvedzic

Actor Jessica Alberato (left) acts out a pregnancy during the war period while actors Genina Perkins (right) and Sherry Gonzalez (far left) pick her up to safely deliver her child.

beware of the single story.

“The media does a really great job of painting with one stroke of a brush – ‘everybody is like this,’ – and I think that just like everyone in this room, we are all individuals, we all have our different stories and experiences and the best way to protect them is to get to know them, to talk to them, walk up to them, and engage in conversation,” Alberato said. “You will see then that we have a lot more in common than we are different and I think that’s really the message that we’re trying to get across here, is that yes, they come from a different country

but what does that even really mean? So they’re not American, okay. But does that mean that they don’t love like we love, does that mean that they don’t love their children and love their heritage and culture like you love your American heritage and culture?

It’s the same. I think that we need to beware of the single story and talk to them and get to know them and befriend them because they’re not that much different.”

To learn more about Gitana Productions, visit gitana-inc.org or send an e-mail to info@gitana-inc.org.

Sherry Gonzalez, a Bosnian refugee, backs away helplessly as she is guided by Serbian soldiers to a room where she will be raped.

ART & LIFE

13

The return of happiness lost: stories of hope and recovery Center provides therapeutic approach to victims of war Dalila Kahvedzic Editor-In-Chief

The red brick building with blue awnings has just three windows which allow those inside a way to look out. But, the bars that cover them cannot confine the individuals who aim to break through their past.

The stigma of counseling and providing therapy tends to be a barrier for people to seek help, Executive Director of the Center for Survivors of Torture and War Trauma, Kristin Bulin said.

“We want to just be a safe haven; be a safe place, a very respecting place and first just allow them to come and get comfortable,” Bulin said.

The Center for Survivors of Torture and WarTrauma is designed to help individuals who struggle to let go of their war-struck pasts.

Founded in the ‘90s by Jean Abbot, a licensed clinical worker and sister of St. Joseph of Carondelet, the center was previously a house of sanctuary for many. Individuals would live here until they could get jobs, Bulin said.

“In the nineties, Jean Abbot learned a lot about those who were in conflict - be at war, be at governmental overtake, militia, drug lords – any kind of rule of law within those areas. People tended to struggle to move forward because of a lot of the symptoms and pain that they endured to rebuild their lives, and at that time there was nothing in St. Louis to help them with that kind of pain,” Bulin said.

Abbot started to go up to The Kovler Center in Chicago, a center specific to torture survivors which works with a lot of refugees and asylum seekers who had been tortured in their home country.

Abbot would learn, come back and teach volunteer therapists who would then provide therapies with people who were here, Bulin said.

“In the late ‘90s she said if we want to continue we’ve got to be able to get funding, and to get funding to become a non-forprofit. So they applied in 2001 and became a non for profit,” Bulin said.

The ultimate goal for the center, Bulin said, is to be able to provide healing.

“For us to be able to facilitate the healing of their pain and build hope for them to where the hope becomes action for them doing – not isolating, staying on the job, socializing, connecting with their family,” Bulin said. “Many of them are very catatonic, they’re like ghosts walking. Often I hear people saying that they just don’t feel anymore, so they’re very stuck and feel that there’s no reason for life.”

Work at the center is done with suicidal individuals as well, Bulin said.

“But the idea of building in hope with the facilitating of the healing allows them to do; to become a warm, feeling human being again,” Bulin said.

Therapy is meant to give these victims a better understanding of what is happening with their body and their mind, Bulin said.

“How does the brain react to trauma so severe that you’re not going crazy? This is the automatic part of how the system works inside you,” Bulin said.

It is a great step once the appreciation is found for what the mind and the body does, Bulin said. Then they can start working and doing some great healing.

The Center for Survivors of Torture and War Trauma works with a wide range of individuals from kids to adults. Usually from around the age of five, all the way up to 70 and above. A lot of the individuals are middle ages, roughly around 40 to 60 and that is evenly split between men and women, Bulin said. The center is seeing close to 150 individuals a year.

Most of the time, family members come in individually.

The application process starts with a screening, Bulin said.

“People would call here, we have an agency that we work very close with – Places for People – who work with a program there called the ‘Faith Team’ and they actually go out and do screenings for us to not only determine if therapy is a good place for them, but also what other services they need,” Bulin said.

Sometimes individuals do not have medical assistance and are provided connections with a psychiatrist. Maybe they need legal services, help finding a job, or assistance in paying for food; all these needs are recognized during a screening.

Individuals get an understanding of what services are provided and an action plan, Bulin said.

“One scenario is that many of the Bosnians came in 1992 and 1993, and then they came again in 1998. What happened with that community is that they

Photo by Dalila Kahvedzic

Kristin Bulin, executive director of The Center for Torture and War Trauma Victims, answers questions after the performance of ‘New World’ on Wednesday, Feb. 24 in the Meramec theatre.

Concentration Camp Survivors of Bosnia & Herzegovina that is here in St. Louis and the President of the North-American region lives here, so we connected with them because unfortunately during that time, many were suicidal, five to six of them succeeded in suicide and they were very scared, very concerned about their members,” Bulin said. “They needed help.”

A lot of men’s and women’s groups were formed, Bulin said.

“We worked back to back with them and they were incredibly heroic. After they shared and connected with one another, participated, we had men sleeping more, we had them talking about what they were doing more socially, getting out of the house, feeling more hopeful and with that – doing more. That’s the stuff, when we hear that, that makes us feel very fulfilling in

“They’re like ghosts walking. Often I hear people saying that they just don’t feel anymore...” got here and immediately jumped into learning the language and getting the jobs,” Bulin said.

“Their minds were taking care of the families, getting the jobs and a lot of them have been through pretty hellacious situations; not only fleeing from war but were also in concentration camps.”

You had people who were taken, placed in camps, brutally tortured and just hit the ground running here. They suppressed it very deep and got jobs, Bulin said.

There was an economical downturn in St. Louis in 2007 and 2008 where a lot of these individuals were laid off their jobs which caused them to be stuck at home, Bulin said. They had all this time to ponder about the issues and problems with the current situation but also to think about the compounding stuff that was bubbling up from the past.

“We had a group of Bosnians who were with the Association of

our mission and that we continue doing it,” Bulin said. “I am grateful for Jean and her founding of this diamond for people.”

One thing that she believes the center does well, Bullin said, is integrating all different types of approaches to therapy. These approaches include massage therapy, cognitive therapy, talk therapy, movement and different types of body therapies.

“We started having a certified volunteer yoga instructor who is a professor at SLU, Susan Tebb, she has a specialty in traumarelated yoga; working with poses, working with integrating specific poses and breathing that connect with those who have been in trauma from the past – it is really trauma-centered,” Bulin said.

The individuals at the center live tight, Bulin said. Their bodies are tight, their muscles are tight and that becomes the norm. They breathe very short

breaths and do not take in the oxygen throughout their body.

To loosen them up, 30 minutes of yoga is done before talk therapy. Talk therapy includes interpreters who were trained in mental health interpretation.

“What that means is really understanding the therapeutic process where the structure is a little different from just a dialogue, questions may be asked differently, repetitively – having a good understanding of what mental health is so the interpreter can continue and be that medium but also try to be outside of it so it is a natural process of communication,” Bulin said.

One pose that individuals do is a pose to help them sleep, Bulin said.

“Sleeping is huge – people only sleep 2 to 3 hours tops maybe,” Bulin said. “And night terrors; they would have nightmares which affects their concentration and their memory, so if we could minimize that, that really puts them in a position to do much better and build hope for them.”

Anything that gets clients to rest their body and mind can trickle down to helping their memory and their concentration, Bulin said.

Once these individuals – or anyone – gets enough sleep, they are present, they are alive, they are cognizant and they are focused, Bulin said.

A certain individual at the center participates in both individual talk therapy and massage therapy, Bulin said, and she says she never felt better.

“She has color in her face, her face is more relaxed, she smiles, she talks 90 to nothing about good things – positive things,” Bulin said. “The physical pain connects so much with the mental pain and when those are alleviated together, it is amazing what people can do.”

In order to get to this point, the women had to let go of their old world and begin a new world in America, portrayed by three actresses in the play ‘New World’ (see story on pg. 12).

Bulin wanted the performance at Meramec to express and tell the stories of what these people really and truly have gone

through, in order to make the community of St. Louis better understand who these people are.

“I have a hard time asking a lot of clients that we see to share their story because it is so difficult and challenging for them, so what better way to do it than utilizing the stage and really having a wonderful playwright who is strong and sharp and a good researcher, to go into the communities and learn more about the stories?”

Bulin loved the play. Her favorite aspect was when the audience was fooled into thinking the actresses were Bosnian, Congolese and Afghan women when they were in fact American.

“That’s good acting,” Bulin said. “We were really happy and appreciated to be able to come on the St. Louis Community College campus at Meramec, I think it was a very good success.”

The interest and curiosity the audience had during the question and answer session help the welcoming of these people here, Bulin said, especially from younger individuals.

“Many of the children who were brought up here, who are second generation now, are the ones that – if we can build a warmer, welcoming community that supports and educates and is inclusive – will make a lot of better decisions to be productive citizens and become more of the way their parents want them to be; healthy, good people,” Bulin said. “Come home, read your mail, be with your family, have dinner and do what the dream should be.”

Bulin reflected on her first few years at the center.

“I remember when I first started working with survivors and they were sharing their stories. I couldn’t believe the stories and that they were actually sitting across from me,” Bulin said. “The idea of them coming from a beautiful country, into hell, and then getting themselves and their family to a place where they are just sitting in the chair in front of me – I have to say, if we can bring up a lot of their spirit that’s deep inside – that is what it’s all about; then the hope comes.”

March 10, 2016

SPORTS Lady Archers split double-header against Southwestern Illinois

Christian’s Corner

Lady Archers win game two by six runs after losing game one by nine Redwan Saeed Staff Writer

Christian Hargas Sports Editor

Beating the Odds The 2015-16 season did not start well for the Archers Basketball program. The Archers lost eight of their first 10 games as did the Lady Archers. Offense and shooting percentages were inconsistent, the defenses were shaky and the early results were nothing short of disappointing.

Things were bleak, worrisome and fans became concerned with what they were seeing.

Then something happened, something drastic. Both teams got hot, really hot, at the right time.

The Lady Archers would finish the regular season with a 13-5 record to advance to the Region XVI Tournament as the top ranked seed.

The Archers defeated Moberly in early January before finishing the regular season with a 10-9 record.

Despite losing the last three games, they entered the men’s tournament as the second ranked seed.

At the Region XVI Tournament in Joplin, MO on Feb. 26-27, both teams reached the championship finals.

The Lady Archers defeated the Lady Pirates of North Central Missouri in a two-point nail-biter to advance to the next round.

They defeated the Lady Scouts of MCC-Penn Valley in the Region XVI Championship in another nail-biting finish to clinch their third title of the last five years.

The Archers defeated the North Central Missouri Pirate, 96-90, to advance to the men’s Region XVI Championship final.

Their season would come to a disappointing end after being defeated by the MCC-Penn Valley Scouts by 21 points, 94-73.

Players, Head Coach Terry Collins and Archer fans were upset at the outcome, but understood the reality of the situation. After the slow start to the season, these players fought hard to reach this point. Losing is not fun for anyone, but they came far from where they began.

Six months of basketball have passed and both teams have reason to be optimistic for next year. The Archers will be fielding an experienced team next season with returning are your eyes. players Sean We Rigmaiden, Jason Johnson, DeVonte Harrell, Aleksa Ocokoljic and others. Collins will be looking to add the right athletes to fit the team’s new philosophy, strategy and approach next year.

The Lady Archers will be looking to defend their Region XVI Championship under Head Coach Shelly Ethridge and returning players Shania Thornton, Shamara Glover, Alfreda Roberts, Sheena BourneWe are your voice.

Buckley and others. Despite the quiet start, the Archers Basketball program finished strong and loud.

The Lady Archers split the double header against Southwestern Illinois on Monday, March 7, at the Meramec campus. Southwestern Illinois won the first game, 13-4.

Infielder Becca Proper and shortstop Terri Dearth each had three runs batted in and SWIC collected 13 runs on 14 hits.

Southwestern Illinois scored their 13 runs through the first three innings of the game. The Lady Archers scored their four runs all in the bottom of the third inning.

Lady Archers starting pitcher Courtney Norris pitched two innings, giving up 12 hits and nine runs while facing 19 batters.

Reliever Katie Brinegar entered the game and pitched three innings, giving up two hits and allowed one run while facing 11 batters.

Southwestern Illinois starting pitcher Tate Smith pitched five innings, allowed seven hits, four runs and walked six of the 29 batters faced.

Smith earned the win for Southwestern Illinois and Norris received the loss.

The Lady Archers won game two of the doubleheader, 11-5.

Shortstop Kelsey Brodbeck led the team with three hits, four stolen bases and tied centerfielder Madison Sundling with three runs scored in this game.

First baseman Tayler Augustinas had two RBIs, leading the Lady Archers.

Lady Archers starting pitcher Tiffany Link pitched

six innings, allowed eight hits, five runs and struck out five of the 28 batters faced.

The Lady Archers’ record stands at 1-1 on the season.

Lady Archers Home Schedule MARCH Sat. 19 Cottey College 1:00 p..m.

Cottey College 3:00 p..m.

Mon. 21 East Central College 2:00 p..m.

East Central College 4:00 p..m.

Thu. 24 Lincoln Land Community College 2:00 p..m.

Lincoln Land Community College 4:00 p..m.

Sat. 26 Waubonsee Community College 11:00 a.m.

Waubonsee Community College 1:00 p..m.

Thu. 31 Three Rivers Community College 2:00 p..m.

Three Rivers Community College 4:00 p..m.

APRIL Fri. 1 Kaskaskia College 2:00 p..m.

Kaskaskia College 4:00 p..m.

Sat. 2 Lindenwood University - Belleville 12:00 p..m.

Lindenwood University - Belleville 2:00 p..m.

Sun. 3 Morthland College 1:00 p..m.

Morthland College 3:00 p..m.

Tue. 5 Mineral Area College 2:00 p..m.

Mineral Area College 4:00 p..m.

Wed. 6 Lewis & Clark Community College 2:00 p..m.

Lewis & Clark Community College 4:00 p..m.

Thu. 7 Jefferson College 2:00 p..m.

Jefferson College 4:00 p..m.

Wed. 13 Heartland Community College 2:00 p..m.

Heartland Community College 4:00 p..m.

Tue. 19 St. Charles Community College 2:00 p..m.

St. Charles Community College 4:00 p..m.

A T

M E R A M E C

The Music Program at Meramec offers courses and ensembles for all students.

Classes are available for general education credit and the Associate in Arts degree with an emphasis in Music to prepare for transfer into a Bachelor of Music program.

We are your eyes.

We are your investigators.

We are your eyes.

We areC your investigators.

OURSES MUS 101,102,201,202 MUS 103 MUS 113 MUS 114 MUS 115,116 MUS 121,122,221,222 MUS 128 MUS 130 MUS 138,139,216 MUS 141,142,241,242 MUS 150 We are Montage.

MUSThe 211,212

We are your voice.

** SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE ** Music Theory I,II,III,IV Basic Music The History of Jazz The Enjoyment of Music Class Voice I,II Class Piano I,II,III,IV Survey of Rock Music Beginning Guitar Jazz Improvisation I,II,III Applied Music (Lessons) I,II,III,IV Fundamentals of Music Technology Music History I,II

The Montage is a student-run, written and produced campus newspaper that strives to bring the community comprehensive coverage of the news and events affecting the St. Louis Community College at Meramec campus.

We are your voice.

We are The Montage.

The Montage has been recognized nationally and state-wide with numerous awards throughout the years for excellence in overall newspaper production.

Most recently, the 2008-2009 staff was awarded a National Pacemaker from the Associated Collegiate Press. The Pacemaker is the highest collegiate honor awarded to student media organizations.

We are your investigators.

The Montage staff structure models that of professional newspapers across the world. The role of a student journalist, one that Montage staffers take seriously, is to produce accurate and balanced reporting while serving as the campus watchdog. Although the news surrounding the campus community may not always shed a favorable light on the college’s image, it is the right and obligation of student journalists to report the truth. https://twitter.com/themontage @TheMontage

For more information visit: www.meramecmontage.com https://www.facebook.com/Meramecmontage

http://www.youtube.com/user/Meramecmontage

https://twitter.com/themontage @TheMontage

https://www.facebook.com/Meramecmontage

http://www.youtube.com/user/Meramecmontage

ENSEMBLES

Music 132 – Orchestra Music 133 – Jazz Lab Band Music 134 – Symphonic Band Music 135 – Concert Choir, Chamber Singers and Voices of Magic jazz choir All ensembles hold a seat/part assignment hearing during the first rehearsal.

Members of the Concert Choir may audition for the Chamber Singers and/or the Voices of Magic jazz choir.

We are The Montage.

The Montage has been recognized nationally and state-wide with numerous awards throughout the years for excellence in overall newspaper production.

Most recently, the 2008-2009 staff was awarded a National Pacemaker from the Associated Collegiate Press. The Pacemaker is the highest collegiate honor awarded to student media organizations.

The Montage staff structure models that of professional newspapers across the world. The role of a student journalist, one that Montage staffers take seriously, is to produce accurate and balanced reporting while serving as the campus watchdog. Although the news surrounding the campus community may not always shed a favorable light on the college’s image, it is the right and obligation of student journalists to report the truth.

For more information, contact the Meramec Music Department Gary Gackstatter, Director of Instrumental Music, ggackstatter@stlcc.edu, (314) 984-7636 Dr. Jerry Myers, Director of Choral Activities & Music Theory, gmyers34@stlcc.edu, (314) 984-7638 March 10, 2016

For more information visit: www.meramecmontage.com

https://www.facebook.com/Meramecmontage

Interested in performing in an ensemble?

All Meramec students may participate. No audition is required!

The models thatand of professional newspapers across the TheMontage Montagestaff is a structure student-run, written produced campus newspaper that world. role of student journalist, one that Montage take seriously, strivesThe to bring thea community comprehensive coveragestaffers of the news and events is to produce balancedCollege reporting while serving as the campus affecting the accurate St. Louis and Community at Meramec campus. watchdog. Although the news surrounding the campus community may not The Montage been recognized and state-wide with and numerous always shed a has favorable light on thenationally college’s image, it is the right obligation awards throughout in overall newspaper production. of student journaliststhe to years reportfor theexcellence truth.

Most recently, the 2008-2009 staff was awarded a National Pacemaker from For information visit: Press. www.meramecmontage.com the more Associated Collegiate The Pacemaker is the highest collegiate honor awarded to student media organizations.

The Montage is a student-run, written and produced campus newspaper that strives to bring the community comprehensive coverage of the news and events affecting the St. Louis Community College at Meramec campus.

https://twitter.com/themontage @TheMontage

15

http://www.youtube.com/user/Meramecmontage

SPORTS

16

Lady Archers win 2015-16 Region XVI Championship

Last second rebound clinches ‘third regional championship’ in five seasons Christian Hargas Sports Editor

The Lady Archers won their third Region XVI Championship in the last five years after defeating MCC-Penn Valley, 72-71, in the Region XVI Tournament on Saturday, Feb. 27 in Joplin, MO. The Lady Archers have come so far since their first semester struggles, Head Coach Shelly Ethridge said.

“We started the season with a record of 2-8,” Ethridge said.

“It is a long season, six months of basketball. We battled through all of these different things throughout the season. In the end, it is the matter of who is playing the best basketball at the time.”

It was not a pretty win against the Scouts but a win nonetheless, Ethridge said.

“We won two games that were critical,” Ethridge said. “Otherwise, we would have been packing our bags. These girls deserve all of the accolades they are going to get.”

The Lady Archers led by four after the first quarter and seven at halftime. Sophomore Guard Shiana Carrington said her performance was a tale of two halves.

“I felt like I played a good first half, but felt like I did not show up for my team in the second half,” Carrington said. “I let the other team [MCC-Penn Valley] get in my head which motivated me. I knew my team was going to pick me up after that, so I had to step up in the fourth quarter.”

Trailing 71-69 with 20 seconds remaining, Carrington scored a two-point layup shot and was fouled.

With the game tied at 71, Carrington converted the foul shot to put the Lady Archers ahead by one. The defensive foul

by Penn Valley changed the whole vibe of the game, Carrington said.

“I felt like that motivated us to get this win,” Carrington said.

“Like I said, the other team got in our heads. They [Penn Valley] thought we were going home but we were not going to allow that. We were not going home, so we needed that extra boost of confidence.”

The Lady Archers led 54-46 after three quarters. Penn Valley took their first lead of the game in the fourth before pulling ahead by six, their largest lead of the night.

Momentum was changing rapidly and things needed to improve, Forward/Center LaShonda Brewer said. “[At the time] my thoughts were like ‘man we just blew a big lead, they came back and now they have the momentum’,” Brewer said. “I knew I had to step up and do what I do in order to help my team pull out the win.”

Sophomore Guard Marche Belcher agreed.

“I think I came through when they needed me to,” Belcher said. “I have been battling some injuries, but I was not going to let that get in the way. I knew coach and my players needed me, so I needed to step up.”

Belcher suffered an injury

Photo by James Claiborne

Guard Shiana Carrington (1), Guard Shania Thornton (12) and Forward/Center Alfreda Roberts were named first team All-region players. Forward/Center LaShonda Brewer (52) was named second team.

in the first quarter after falling backward and hitting her head on the court floor. It was nerve wracking having to leave the game for a little while, Belcher said.

“It kind of freaked me out because I have never hit my head like that before,” Belcher said.

“However, my ponytail kind of saved the impact so I could brace for it. I stayed in the game.”

Freshman Forward/Center Alfreda Robert chanted on the sidelines with her teammates as the game was in progress.

Using her hands and a chair, the team’s confidence was moving with the beat, Roberts said.

“It is good motivation because if there is no type of chant then

they feel like they do not have the confidence,” Roberts said. “We wanted to make sure we were keeping them motivated, keeping their spirits up so they can feel the confidence and keep going.

Brewer agreed.

“My teammates are who keep me going,” Brewer said.

“They make me feel good about my game. It just gives me a boost to keep elevating my game.”

With the Lady Archers ahead by one point, with 3.9 seconds left in the game, with Penn Valley controlling the possession of the ball, a missed shot and last second defensive rebound clinched the 72-71 victory and third Region XVI Championship

in the last five seasons for STLCC. This win was more than just a celebration for the players but a celebration of the head coach, Belcher said.

“It was important to me, but I think it was more important for us to win it for her [Ethridge],” Belcher said. “She wanted it really bad and that was the main reason why our team came out and showed up. She deserved it.”

The players were just as deserving, Ethridge said.

“Honestly, all I care about is the girls and them winning,” Ethridge said. “I would not be the coach of the year if I did not have the kids. Everything I get is because of them.”

Archers’ season ends in Region XVI Championship game loss to MCC-Penn Valley Shaky defensive performance’ results in 21 point elimination from NJCAA Tournament Christian Hargas Sports Editor

The Archers were defeated, 94-73, by the MCC-Penn Valley Scouts in the Region XVI Championship game on Saturday, Feb. 27, at Ozark Christian College in Joplin, MO. There were problems on both sides of the ball during the game, Head Coach Terry Collins said.

“We did not play well offensively, there was way too much one-on-one,” Collins said.

“Defensively, we did not do a good job of guarding the post and we did not do a good job of rebounding.

It was really a bad effort.”

The problems were existent from the start, Sophomore Forward Charles Johnson said.

“I just do not think we started off on the right foot,” Johnson said. “The positive energy was not there, there was a lot of negative energy before the game. We did not play good enough defense.”

The Archers’ defensive performance in this game was shaky, Sophomore Guard Marcel Lee said.

“We did not play our regular defense, did not have the same intensity or tenacity,” Lee said.

“We got the scouting report and we knew what was in store for us.

March 10, 2016

We just gambled on a couple of key baskets that we could have stopped.”

The Scouts won the opening tip-off and took an early 6-2 lead in the first half. The Archers tied the game at six before MCCPenn Valley took the lead for the second time in the opening half.

The Archers’ could not get into their usual rhythm, Collins said.

“We just never took control of the tempo of the game and that is their style,” Collins said.

“So, that was a big problem.”

Failing to invest into the game plan was another contributing factor to the team’s loss, Freshman Guard Jason Johnson said.

“We all had to come together and buy into what he [Collins] wanted us to do, buy into the system and the majority of the time we did not buy into the system,” Johnson said. “So, the outcome was the outcome. It just did not happen for us.”

MCC-Penn Valley led by six points at halftime before opening the second half by extending their lead to 13. The Archers were outscored 53-38 and totaled nine fouls in the second half. The offensive and defensive problems continued to be exploited, Collins said. “[On defense] we were out of position,” Collins said. “When you are out of position on defense,

you tend to reach and foul. That was really just about being out of position. [Offensively] it was just the habits of playing our style that works for us and we did not. We gave into PennValley’s style and the dam broke.”

Every loss is a lesson in life, Freshman Forward Alex Ocokoljic said.

“You just accept whatever happens,” Ocokoljic said. “I am really proud of how far we came, but it is really just regret now because we lost. It is easier to lose at the beginning than lose in the championship finals. The worst thing is to be second in anything in life, but it is what it is.”

Despite losing in the championship game, there are still some things to be optimistic about heading into next season, Lee said. There are things to look back and reflect upon.

“At the beginning of the season, we had a rocky start,” Lee said. “We had a new coach and new system. It is hard playing triangle offense in one season, but I still think we had a good overall year though. We went through a lot; losing players, had an eight game losing streak and people not thinking much of us. People said we were not even suppose-to make it this far with only eight players, we were up against all odds.”

Photo by James Claiborne

The Archers defeated North Central Missouri Pirates, 96-90, in the Region XVI Tournament Semi-Finals on Friday, Feb. 26.

It was still a disappointing way to finish the season, Collins said.

“The goal is to win a championship and we did not,” Collins said. “I am glad that we did not give into the slow start, that is a good sign, a good quality. It is just a disappointing finish because when we were playing well, we were playing a certain style of ball and we got away from it.

Once we got away from that style, we never really got back to it.”

The intensity of the game is high in moments like this and teams play different, Lee said.

“When you are here, teams have a 0-0 record,” Lee said. “You cannot base a team off ‘you best them last time so you are going to beat them again.’ You just have to think like it is the first time playing this new team. Everybody that is playing wants to win. They want to take it [championship] home just as badly as you want to.”