Overall Newspaper Design - MCCC - Staff

THE
Nursing program clears hurdle

By William Miko
Agora Staff
gora A
www.mcccagora.com
Aug. 26, 2010 55, Issue November 7, 2013 Vol. Vol. 58, Issue 4 1
Halloween at MCCC, photos page 3
Continued accreditation recommended

MCCCs highly successful nursing program appears to be back on track after receiving a warning from its accreditation agency in 2011. The program, which was put on warning status during its last comprehensive review in 2011, was re-evaluated by a site team this October, according to Kim Lindquist, Dean of Health Sciences. The first hurdle is complete, Lindquist said. Lindquist added the visit from the site team was a success; the team is recommending continued accreditation for the nursing program. The visit lasted two-and-ahalf days to assure that concerns from 2011 were addressed, and all standards were met. To continue as an accredited nursing program is a three-step process, Lindquist said. The first step was the visit by the site team. Next comes the report to an evaluation review panel in January, and the vote in March by the board of the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
Health Science Dean Kim Lindquist
Photo by Reggie Allen
Nursing student, Elizebeth Ramos performs a phlebotomy, puncturing a vein with a needle, on a practice dummy in class.
A final determination for continued accreditation is not expected to be announced until April, 2014. Lindquist said the warning status was issued due to concerns the ACEN had with the program meeting certain standards. ACEN has six different standards, with numerous criteria under each standard. Every two to eight years ACEN holds a comprehensive review to assure that nursing programs are compliant with these standards. A complete revision of the nursing program has been in the works since their 2011 visit. Our entire curriculum has been
revised; we have a new mission and vision, core values, and learning outcomes, Lindquist said. We also have all new program evaluation tools as well. Lindquist praised the faculty of the nursing program from the top down. They are really the ones that pushed the entire process, Lindquist said. This is a very small amount of time for this amount of work. Michelle Wyatt, a student in the nursing program, said she was initially nervous about the program being on warning status. I was at first, but after seeing what they put into it, I was less nervous, Wyatt said. Wyatts concern with the program losing its accreditation was that the credits she had would not be able to transfer if she wanted to continue her education and receive a bachelors degree. She also said that an accredited degree is more viable then a nonaccredited degree when it comes to getting a job. Wyatt went on to say that the nursing program faculty offered
Continued on Page 2
New childcare option available for students

By Katie Mullin
Agora Staff
MCCC parents can now seek a childcare service down the road. Meadow Montessori School has designated an area to provide childcare for MCCC students and staff. Randy Daniels, vice president of Student and Information Services, took a tour of the facility and met with staff members there. The room is well-equipped with developmentally appropriate learning material and readily available for more of our students to utilize, he said in an email about Meadow Montessori. Its an opportunity for our students to have something thats close, convenient and affordable, he said. Theyre serving a few of our students now. Catharine Calder, head of Meadow Montessori, said they are offering a drop-in preschool for 3-6 year olds at
the school. Children are immersed in a Montessori atmosphere and learn a variety of subjects that include math, sciences, geography, and two foreign languages: Chinese and Spanish. The language classes are taught by native speakers. Montessori looks at education holistically Calder said. One way it accomplishes this task is building community in the classroom. Its like a family. We work so hard to create that sense of community, she said. Calder said the school is not currently accepting drop-in childcare for infants and toddlers. MCCCs childcare center saw its doors close last spring when it was unable to secure a vendor. The Board of Trustees voted to privatize the service. Marina Harvey, Meadow Montessori director of development, said stu-
dents should not use the school as a site to deposit their child for a couple of hours. We need to talk with the parents first. Its really on a case-by-case basis, she said. I do not want to give people the wrong impression. Prospective students and staff are required to fill out paperwork before enrolling their children in a program. Harvey also said they do put caps on the number of children, and it depends on their age. Were willing to work with students to create something for them, she said. Were willing to help. According to Daniels email, The Meadow Montessori childcare program is $5 per hour. Daniels said the campus charged $3.50 per hour and added a $25 technology fee each semester.
Photo by Katie Mullin
The Meadow Montessori childcare program provides daily learning activities such as crafts.
Costumed students perform poetry to full theater

By Julia Wells
Agora Staff
Students and faculty got into the spirit of the season at the Poetry and Storytelling night, sponsored by the Writing Fellows. The event was held in the Little Theatre on Oct. 29, just in time for Halloween. Participants were encouraged to dress in costume and read their favorite poetry. Some students even prepared original works of poetry to read. Jacob Gonyea, a student in professor Carrie Nartkers English class, started out the night with a short, fun freestyle. Im a freestyle poet, my inspiration is life and people and how they interact, he said. Student Bill Borrous was inspired by his son to dress up as the video game character Luigi, and perform an original, Mario-themed poem. I talked with my son and he helped me with my poem a little bit. He came up with neat little words and rhymes and I ad-libbed with him and thats what we came up with. So Im excited about it and he is too. he said. Burrous also said he would be willing to perform again.
Its all in good fun. Everybody seemed to enjoy it, it was a great atmosphere and a good time.
-Bill Burrous Student Performer
Dillon said. They pretty much do all the leg work and I oversee it. Dillon said that though the costume contest usually is a hit among the audience, they can never predict how the turnout will be. We never know, weve had the place full and weve had only a few rows of people, so we never know. Last year we had about ten people dress up. This year, 31 students recited pieces to a theater of 60 students and members of faculty. Dillon said that he does not do costumes, so he did not dress up. He did, however, participate in a performance with English professor William McCloskey. McCloskey performed a dramatic piece by Leroy Jones, while Dillon accompanied him on guitar. Other faculty members who performed pieces were Vinnie Maltese, who did a bit that included a math handout, and Carrie Nartker who was asked by a student to read his work for him. Ten students participated in the costume contest. Ultimately, student Tiffany Miller won the contest, dressed as the book Morris Goes to School, which she also recited part of. Miller won a $20 gift card to MCCCs bookstore. One of the Writing Fellows who judged the competition was Ashley Bates, who also helped host the event. I really did get nervous because I did not want to trip over peoples names. But it was okay, I enjoyed it, Bates said. I did not perform something myself because I do not like my own poetry. Im not a poem writer; I could not write a poem to save my life. Another Poetry and Storytelling night is scheduled for the Winter semester.
Writing Fellow Aaron Kipfmiller presented Tiffany Miller, the winner of the costume contest with a book stor gift card.
Its all in good fun. Everybody seemed to enjoy it, it was a great atmosphere and a good time. The Writing Fellow staff, advised by
Professor Timothy Dillon, usually puts on this event in the Fall and Spring. Its mostly the Writing Fellows who do it. They always want to do this,
Inside:
Campus News......................2-5 A&E.......................................6 Editorial...................................7 Sports......................................8
Check out The Agora online at
Bookstore Hours:
Mon - 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. Tue - Fri: 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Library Hours:
www.mcccagora.com
Like us on Follow us on
Mon - Thur: 8 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. Fri: 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Sat: 9 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
LAL/Writing Center:
Mon - Thurs: 8 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. Fri: 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Sat: 9 a.m- 1:00 p.m
Fitness Center Hours:
Mon - Thurs: 10 a.m. - 7:30 Fri - Sat: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Serving Monroe County Community College since 1968
November 7 , 2013
Campus News
Nobody can understand what we go through; it is a very rigorous and rewarding program,
Michelle Wyatt Nursing Student
mcccagora.com The Agora
|2
Continued from Page 1
Nursing program boasts high success rates

According to Lindquist, graduates must past the NCLEX exam, which is a national board exam required to practice as a registered nurse (RN). In 2012, 96 percent of MCCCs RN students passed the NCLEX exam. The national benchmark is 89 percent. Cindy Pitney, a third semester RN student, said the program does a great job of preparing the students for the NCLEX exam. She said the tests in her classes are more focused on critical thinking
a meeting to allow students to address their concerns, and to get a better understanding of what was going on. I was very confident after the meeting, she said. Wyatt said she was aware of the nursing program being on warning status when she was accepted into the program. She said that she decided to join MCCCs nursing program despite the warning status due to its very high reputation. The nursing program at MCCC has been very successful in recent years. A high number of students who finish the Registered Nursing program and receive their Associates of Applied Science degree in Nursing have passed qualifying exams.
rather than knowledge-based information, which is similar to the NCLEX exam. The practical nursing degree, also available at MCCC, has an NCLEX exam as well; students from MCCC passed this exam at 100 percent in 2012. MCCCs nursing program also produces successful job placement rates. A survey is available for students to fill out six to twelve months after they receive their degree. Lindquist said 75 percent of those who responded were employed. Wyatt said that the program is a challenge, but worth it. Nobody can understand what we go through; it is a very rigorous and rewarding program, she Photo by Reggie Allen said. Elizabeth Ramos and Carly Mcintosh work together to perform a procedure on a practice dummy.
Faculty contract still at a standstill

By Katie Mullin
Agora Staff
Making peace with the other side has yet to be seen at the negotiating table between MCCC faculty and the college. There wasnt much progress, Dr. Patrick Nedry said about the last negotiating session. Nedry, chief negotiator for the faculty, said the college is asking faculty to give up certain benefits in their contract that affect wages and other compensation. Thats the crux of what were talking about, he said. Described as a paramount decision, Nedry also said the college is asking some of the faculty to take a cut in their benefits to fund others. The longer it goes, the more money they save, he said. The college and faculty negotiators last met Oct. 4 to discuss the contract, which expired in August. We exchanged proposals a couple times, he said about the negotiating process. Other college employee groups were not required to take a benefits cut to fund increases in salaries, according to Nedry. None of the other groups had to do that, he said. The faculty is certainly not happy, says Nedry. However, he remains optimistic about the situation and thinks their requests are reasonable. People want to be professional despite their concerns, he said. Kojo Quartey, president of MCCC, said he wants both sides to have a mutually beneficial resolution. Personally, what I would like to see is a win-win situation. I want everyone to win, because I dont want to work with losers. I believe in working with winners, he said about coming to an agreement. He also addressed both sides of the negotiating table. Quartey said he knows whats its like to work as a faculty member and an administrator. I know what it means to be in their shoes, he said about being a faculty member. I value the faculty and the board values the faculty. Quartey encourages both sides to accelerate the decision-making process. The negotiation talks have been ongoing since February. I want to see it happen as soon as possible, he said. Quartey said faculty and administration need to be reminded why they are here. Its all about the students, he said. Faculty members are expressing their disgruntlement by wearing t-shirts that say: 50 years of teaching excellence deserves a fair contract.
Whether East and West Tech get remodeled depends on whether the state approves a funding request by the Board of Trustees.
E,W Tech buildings may be remodeled; other issues discussed by Trustees

By Katie Mullin
Agora Staff
Photo by Katie Mullin
The East and West technology buildings are in need of major renovations. That was the message from Suzanne Wetzel, Vice President of Administration, to the Board of Trustees at their meeting on Oct 28. We have a whole lot of work to do in West Tech, she said. Wetzel presented the colleges annual building plan for 2015. Included in the plan is a request for state funding to renovate the East and West Technology buildings. The approximately 60,000-square-foot plan has an estimated price tag of $12 million. If we complete the renovation at 60,000 square feet, thats what it would cost, she said. The timeline for renovation of the two buildings is currently from July 2014 until December 2015. Those are very, very rough estimates, Wetzel said. State approval is required if a project exceeds $1 million. By submitting this, theres no guarantee the state will fund it, Wetzel said. The Career Technology Center (CTC) was submitted several times before it was approved. Wetzel discussed programs the college would like to expand within the East and West buildings. Included are expanding the Regional Computer Technology Center (RCTC), moving the Learning Assistance Lab from the C building, renovating lab space to accommodate the creation of a Viticulture and Enology lab, and expanding the Middle College. The East and West Technology buildings need major renovations, especially in the lab areas to make it possible to convert these spaces into useable classroom and lab spaces for other programs needing to relocate or expand, the project request said. Wetzel explained what will happen if the college receives state funding. The state typically provides up to 50 percent funding for community colleges. Once you get that authorization, it locks you into that amount, she said. The request addressed whether the project would have an impact on tuition. There should be no impact on student tuition and fees, the request said. The board voted to approve the Capital Outlay plan, which included the East/West Tech
proposal. Wetzel said the vote does not allocate funding, but places the East and West Tech renovation as the next priority. Also during the meeting, Steve Mapes, associate professor of Counseling, presented this years Student Profile Report. Mapes said the typical student is female, Caucasian, living in Monroe County, attending part-time and planning to transfer. This has remained unchanged for many years, he said. The type of programs students are pursuing shifted, he said. The trend during the recession was more toward occupational programs. We did see more of a shift in occupational programs, he said, seeing it go back to transfer programs. Mapes explained the enrollment by gender females dominated, with 2,160, while there were 1,617 males. He also said more veterans enrolled at the college. Its not a big group, but 88 percent are male, he said. Another growing group is delayed or deferred students those who postpone their enrollment for a semester or more. Were seeing more and more students delaying that enrollment, he said. Mapes said enrollment has declined, overall, in and out of the district, but out-of-state students saw the largest decrease. We feel that these are our Pell Runners, he said, referring to students who move from college to college to fraudulently obtain federal grant money. Mapes said roadblocks have been enacted to prevent the problem. In addition, Mapes said the area with the largest increase in students was downriver, which includes Brownstown and Woodhaven. Thats really where all of our growth came from, he said. Another area of growth on the enrollment report was students attending any college for the first time. Mapes said this segment is experiencing the most gains with dual-enrolled students and military veterans. Those are our bright spots, he said. Trustee Linda Lauer mentioned that MCCC has raised tuition a lot in recent years. We are definitely the superior option, Mapes said in response.
board meeting:
The board approved a first-year probationary contract for Jack Burns, director of Campus Planning and Facilities. Burns has been a lifelong resident of Monroe County and was a former MCCC student. Im very grateful for the opportunity to serve the college, he said. Beth Waldvogel, a part-time Web Services/Computer Lab Technician on the colleges main campus, is transferring to a full-time position at the Whitman Center. Wetzel said the transfer will save the college $30,000 a year. Its a huge win-win for our students, she said. She brought it (the idea) forward and I think its really terrific. The college was scheduled to receive a cash boost on Nov 1. A $3 million loan will be credited to the colleges account to pay for uncovered expenses, according to Wetzel. Wetzel said the college is waiting for property tax revenues to arrive so the college can pay off the loan. As soon as we have the money, well pay it back, she said. College President Dr. Kojo Quarteys TV show, Education Matters, was addressed in the meeting. The half-hour interview show is filmed at MPACT studios in Monroe. Joe Verkennes, Director of Marketing, said the second taping was recently completed featuring Quartey interviewing the superintendent of the Monroe County Intermediate School District. The first episode, featuring a discussion with Peter Coomar, dean of the Applied Science and Engineering Technology Division, will air in November. The next episode will run in January. Verkennes and other staff and faculty members have taken part in the shows production. We are even trying to get the students involved, he said. Quartey mentioned the first meeting of a Solidworks software support group, which was held at MCCC and drew over 100 people. That was great, he said. Wetzel presented a report on the new Career Technology Center. Internal signage is now complete, she said. Wetzel also said she is working with the faculty to resolve complaints of loud noises while students are in the work bays.
Other highlights of the Oct. 28
Mark Bergmooser, speech professor and president of the faculty union, shows unity by wearing his blue shirt at a recent meeting. Faculty members wore their shirts on Nov. 5, to spread their message.
2013 Monroe County High School Gradutes at MCCC

High School Total 2013 2013 Grads % of class Graduating class Enrolled at MCCC Enrolled at MCCC Airport 184 58 32% Bedford 396 53 13% Dundee 98 22 22% Ida 117 41 35% Jefferson 139 48 35% Mason 73 15 21% Monroe 396 120 30% S.M.C.C 106 20 19% Summerfield 68 8 12% Whiteford 61 14 23% Total 1638 399 24%
Figures from the Fall 2013 Student Profile Data report show what percentage of the graduating students, from each high school in Monroe County, are enrolling at MCCC right out of high school.
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 youd like to see in The Agora - its your newspaper. E-mail submissions: agora@monroeccc.edu .
November 7, 2013
Campus News
|3
Students groove to the cha cha slide on the dance floor.
A zombified version of Logan Fransisco and Cherie Farley.
Photos by Reggie Allen
DJ Josh Zarza, dressed as a wizard, mixes up some music as part of the entertainment.
Kimberly Stone and Blaine Hubbert won the costume contest by replicating Velma and Shaggy.
The Halloween Bash, hosted by the Math and Science Society, brought together a frighteningly good arrangement of holiday fun. Packed with live music, games and enough candy to fill anyones bag, the Cellar came alive. Cans were collected at the door and will be donated to the Manor House Salvation Army.
Students pose to show off their costumes.
Student Jacob Gonyea danced dressed as a pirate.
November 7, 2013
Campus News
Im proud to have all of these institutions on our campus.
Dr. Kojo Quartey MCCC Presidenrt
mation on support services, financial aid, and admissions, along with a sign that said, Our tuition is among the lowest in the region. According to Haver, the event gave MCCC an advantage, not only because its the first college a student saw, but because MCCC already tries to visit other schools. Recruiting is an absolute bonus for us, she said. Throughout the entire event, the MCCC booths stayed busy with students and their parents interested in what each booth had to offer. So many people came through that we had to go get more handouts, MCCC Financial Aid assistant Ryan Rafko said. Next to the Financial Aid booth was information on support services and admissions. Support Services included information on the Learning Assistance Lab (LAL) and POPSS (Perkins Occupational Populations Support Services). POPSS is funded through the Carl D. Perkins Grant and students must be enrolled or intending to enroll in certain state-approved occupational programs. The admissions booth had information on classes offered and about being admitted to MCCC. Many admissions representatives agreed that applying early for any deadline is important and thats one of the main messages they gave to prospective students. Its important to know about deadlines
|4
College Night attracts record numbers

By Mariah Tevepaugh
For the Agora
Students and parents waited anxiously with questions rolling around in their minds - the time had come to enter the gymnasium and begin their search for a future college. MCCCs College Night on Oct. 29 featured a record number of more than 60 colleges and universities, according to event organizer Joyce Haver, a college counselor. The event impressed students, parents, guardians, and MCCC staff with the variety of in-state and out-of-state colleges. Im proud to have all of these institutions on our campus, MCCC President Kojo Quartey said. Colleges such as Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio and Pennsylvania made an appearance at the event. The front three booths of the gymnasium were for MCCC and included infor-
Its important to know about deadlines, and how to apply.

Mike Oelke University of Michigan admissions
and how to apply. University of Michigan admissions representative Mike Oelke said. Students and parents were impressed by how much information they were given by the admissions representatives and their enthusiasm to talk about their university or college. Some of them had some nice swag, Michelle Glanville, a parent of a current high school student said, referring to the college representatives. Many students seemed to agree that the event was helpful due to the organization,
variety of colleges, and all the information they received. It was a success, current high school student Taylor Wallin said. I learned things I didnt know. MCCC Student Government was also involved, passing out information on the event with a list of colleges and universities that had attended. Current Student Government member Sara Bijarro (Fox), thinks the event is a great way to show students they can get information and receive opportunities from attending College Night. Its important to keep kids involved in their education, she said. Haver and other faculty members agree that College Night is important because it helps bring together the students and parents with a college or university admissions representative. Theres an opportunity to engage oneon-one, Haver said.
Speaker brings native spirituality to MCCC

By Logan Jacobs
For the Agora
I saw the white wolf come to you...

The earth has received the embrace of the sun and we shall see the results of that love. We love earth mother and everything that she gives to us, including everything above us, and we will feel that love. We believe as Native American people that this phrase sums up everything, says John Bailey, 38, founder of Turtle Island Dream Keepers. Baileys group focuses on Native American education in Monroe County. He spoke Oct. 7 at a seminar on the MCCC campus about the fundamentals of Native American spiritualism. Bailey embraces the spirituality of his ancestors. He follows the Native American belief system, and walks the red road though he was not born into it. The practice of Native American spirituality can take years to fully comprehend, Bailey said, although three practices stand out as pillars of the ideology: pow wows, the Sacred Hoops teachings, and visions. A pow wow is a get-together where all are invited to take part in practicing and celebrating Native American culture. A pow wow is a gathering of nations, Bailey said. Pow wows are a common place for one of the most sacred practices of the spirituality dancing. To dance is to pray, to pray is to dance, Bailey said. Every dance is a prayer. Prayer is a large part of the spirituality, just as in all religions. Native Americans use tobacco often to help communicate and feel closer to Creator. We offer up tobacco; that is a connection we have to Creator. He gave us that to be able to connect with him. So we lay that down every morning and every night to say thank you for everything you have given us, Bailey said. A large part of Native American ideology stems from the Sacred Hoops belief system. This system operates under the guidelines that all things are related, and all things are equal. We are constantly in contact with Creator, Bailey said. The Sacred Hoops is an image that displays seven directions, each one associ-
Photo courtesy of John Bailey
John Bailey, right, carries a flag during the Native American Pow-wow on the MCCC campus last summer.
No man is above or below another man, we are all equal in the circle. Your word is no different than any other mans words, you are not judged in the circle.
John Bailey Founder, Turtle Island Dream Keepers
ated with a color and plane. East is yellow, red is south, black is west, white is north, blue is sky, green is earth, and purple is the center, which symbolizes Creator. Sacred Hoops has strong metaphors to the cycle of life in its entirety, and makes strong claims of total equality among man; it takes years to truly learn and master, Bailey said. No man is above or below another man, we are all equal in the circle. Your word is no different than any other mans words, you are not judged in the circle, he said. Bailey chooses to practice his Native American beliefs; he was born a Lutheran and later converted to Catholicism when
he married. When asked how he came to his decision, he smiled and muttered: A vision. It was a regular night for Bailey, listening to a friends grandfather tell a story on a reservation when he dozed off. I saw myself back in the same field we were in. I was there by myself; I was confused. Storm clouds were coming in, then out of the sky came a white wolf. He said, dont worry, Ive got you covered and have since the day you were born. You are going to learn to walk the way of the red man, Bailey said. Cautiously, Bailey asked how, and the wolf replied the first thing Bailey would learn is showing a white dream catcher. It was then that Bailey awoke in front of the fire, back with his friend and the
grandfather. The grandfather then laid a white dream catcher in front of him. I saw the white wolf come to you; you are on a road, a long road that will shape your life, the grandfather said. Since that day, Bailey has been walking the red road, though it is not easy. Many of the details of Native American spirituality were lost due to the longtime persecution by the U.S. government, which only recently ended. It wasnt until 1979, when Congress passed the Native American Freedom Act, that we were even allowed to speak our own language, to be able to pray in public, to be able to dance in the pow wows. Up until that point we were not allowed to do any of those, Bailey said.
The MCCC Writing Center ...

... is looking for qualified students to join the Writing Fellow Program
Top ten reasons to become a writing fellow at MCCC

Earn tuition and bookstore money by tutoring other students Meet interesting students, faculty, and staff Acquire another nifty t-shirt (MCCC Writing Center) Earn respect from faculty and staff on campus Scholarships can be listed on your resume Great preparation to go into teaching and education Opportunities to attend conferences at other colleges Become a better writer and help others becomes better writers Learn to cope with chaos and deadlines Be part of a great MCCC organization
If you are interested in becoming an MCCC writing tutor, please stop by the Writing Center in C-218 to pick up an application. If you would like to know more about the Writing Center go to http://www.monroeccc.edu/writing.
November 7, 2013
Campus News
Emily Cheplicki
For the Agora
|5
Pink-Out day draws few students

MCCCs Pink Out Day was not as pink as the Student Government hoped it would be. On Thursday, Oct. 24, MCCCs Student Government attempted to get the students of MCCC to wear pink to support Breast Cancer Awareness. Not as many people participated as we expected they would, Student Government member Heaven Wuest said. Students could wear pink shirts, ribbons, and anything else they could find in their closet. However, most students chose not to. Some students said that the low turnout may have been related to a lack of advertising. I didnt even know Pink Out Day was a thing, MCCC student Matt Trombley said. I would have never guessed it was Pink Out Day here at MCCC; there is hardly anyone wearing pink, student Ashley Ingram said. The special occasion was advertised through email and also on MCCCs Facebook page. However, Student Government members said the event should have been more publicized. Flyers could have been put up, or even big signs, Wuest said. Student government also had a table set up in the A -Building from 11a.m. to 2 p.m.. The table displayed items such as pencils, stickers, ribbons, quotes, stress balls, cupcakes and brochures. The brochures included information about breast cancer and how to cope with the illness. Student Government said they had to get peoples attention as they walked past the table and ask them to take some of the items. The only time most students would stop voluntarily was before we ran out of cupcakes. We got the impression that students only wanted the free cupcakes, Wuest said. While most students tossed thier Pink Out Day email in the trash, some participated. MCCC student Sam Hopper wore a pink shirt, a pink flower in her hair, a pink ribbon, and a pink Northface jacket. I wore pink today because my moms best friend is currently fighting breast cancer, Hopper said. I sent her a picture of my pink outfit this morning, and she replied, Thats awesome! I appreciate it! It made me feel good, and it just goes to show you that its not that hard to just throw on a pink shirt, Hopper said. Alex Winningham, a freshman at MCCC, wore a streak of pink in her hair, pink bracelets, and a pink shirt.
Student Government members Shelby Angilley and Heaven Wuest hand out breast cancer awareness material at the Pink-Out day booth.
I received the email and figured that it was something everyone was going to participate in. Im a little surprised that Im the only one in all my classes who went all out wearing pink. I did it to show my support for all of the women in my family that have fought breast cancer, Winningham said. MCCC student Darcy Ferrara wore a small pink ribbon and pink socks. To be honest, my socks are a coincidence. I was not aware that it was Pink Out Day, but when I saw the informational table I stopped to get a ribbon, she said. I would have put more pink on if I would have known, but I will for sure be participating next year. MCCCs Student Government has put on the event for several years. Although this year was not as successful as members previously thought, they will continue to do it in the years to come.
Blood drive gives chance to contribute

Katherine Gerweck
For the Agora
Blood drives at MCCC are an opportunity to encourage students to give back. Youre letting a more diverse group of people know about the need, access, and ability to help others, said Kevin Stewart, a donor and MCCC student. Sponsored by The American Red Cross and MCCC Student Government, the first blood drive of the year, was held on Oct. 22. Heidi Gardner, an American Red Cross collection specialist, said all blood drives are important. But MCCCs gives the Red Cross the opportunity to get new people involved. We like reaching out to the younger generation, she said. The blood drives are held in the Administration Buildings dining room, which is partitioned off for the event. They are easily reachable and convenient for students and faculty. Shelby Angilley, a Student Government member who chaired the event, said the blood drives accessibility is a factor of its success. Its a good location because there are a bunch of students and faculty. Its not out of anyones way, she said. They also give students with time constraints the opportunity to donate. The on-campus location makes it easy for students to come before or after class. For some, it is the only time that they are able to give blood. I never really have time to do it anywhere but the college, said middle college student Samantha Brooks. I think there are many middle college students who just do it here. Community members are also welcome to donate; Ap-
pointments and walk-ins are accepted. At the start of the blood drive, a line of five walk-ins five wait to be registered. Shawn Crockett, a community member and former student, said he has been turned away from other blood drives because he did not have an appointment. MCCCs blood drives are important to him, because he thinks students seeing community members come in encourages them. It instills in the students to donate, he said. MCCCs blood drives average 65 units, which is a good amount, according to Gardner. The donations are primarily used for traumas, like car accident victims, she said. Many donors give blood because they know someone who has benefited from it. Multiple family members have needed it in the past, said Nicole Mitchell, a former MCCC student. According to the American Red Cross website, there are four steps in the donation process: registration, a miniphysical and health history, the donation, and refreshments. Those wishing to donate should have a form of ID for the registration process. The mini-physical and questions about health history are done in a private booth, and the results are kept confidential. The donation itself will take eight to ten minutes,; although certain methods, like donating plasma, can take longer. Finally, donors are offered refreshments like water, crackers, and cookies. One donation can help up to three people. MCCC students who attended the blood drive understand the rewarding feeling of donating. Its a small act but it has large benefits, said Stewart.
Agora photo by Darryl White
Psychology professor Melissa Grey presents Queer It Up: A Discussion and Exercise in How to be an LGBT Ally at MCCC.
Queer it up
Alexandra Kobielski
For The Agora
Professor helps students learn to be allies of LGBT

Research indicates that 44 percent of college students have experienced sexual harassment in the past year based on their sexual identity, and 72 percent of students have experienced nonsexual contact harassment such as homophobic name calling. In the past year, 28 percent of LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender) youth have thought about or attempted suicide, she said. On college campuses, 89 percent of students have heard the phrase thats so gay being used in a derogatory fashion. Grey listed ways on how allies can take action against discrimination. Step in to say it is wrong. Stop physical harassment by letting the LGBT community know there is support. And raise awareness to prevent harassment based on gender identities, she said. Grey asked what the students learned in the event. Stop being judgmental and accept everyone for who they are, one audience memeber said. You do not always get to pick the group you are in, another girl said.
MCCC Psychology professor Melissa Grey discussed the importance of becoming an ally and supporting different sexual orientations in an Oct. 24 presentation. An ally is someone heterosexual who supports different sexual orientations, Grey said. An ally is someone who recognizes they have privilege where others experience prejudice by society. Grey named her speech, Queer It Up: A Discussion and Exercise in How to be an LGBT Ally at MCCC. She talked about the differences between various sexual orientations and gender identities such as gay, bisexual, lesbian, and heterosexual. She led the audience through a symbolic activity, asking each person to close their eyes as she placed a sticker on their foreheads. The group was also told to open their eyes and to find other people in the room whose sticker matched theirs. The challenge they were unable to communicate through speaking.
As each person looked around the room, they began to realize that every sticker was in the shape of a star; each a different color. The participants separated into groups without talking; they helped each other by looking at a forehead and pointing that person in the direction of their group. By the time everyone was split into groups, there was one person with a yellow sticker who stood alone The purpose of the activity was to represent belonging to a group and how society divides us based on looks and differences. Each person trusted someone else to tell them the color of their sticker and direct them to the correct group. This symbolized how society separate us into a group, when in reality, we feel as though we do not belong. Why divide by gender identities?, Grey asked. Why is that better? People are treated differently based on groups that society pushes them into, Grey explained. Grey showed statistics to college students about sexual orientation.
Briefly:
Chili, soup cook-off comes to MCCC
MCCC is hosting its fourth annual Chili and Soup Cook-Off to help raise money for the Kimberly Reaume Memorial Scholarship. The Cook-Off is scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 14, from noon to 1 p.m. and will be held in the MCCC Dining Room. Anyone interested in participating should contact Tom Ryder by Friday, November 8. Donations will go to the Kimberly Reaume Memorial Scholarship; bowls, spoons, napkins, and crackers will be provided. This is a great chance to warm up for the winter and donate to a great cause!
Dr. Quartey will be having direct conversations with residents of Monroe County to get a first hand feel of what different areas of the county need, in terms of services from the college. Each listening session will run from 6-7:30 pm at the following dates and locations: Wednesday Nov. 13, at Ellis Library and Reference Center; Thursday, Nov. 14, at Frenchtown-Dixie Branch Library; Monday, Nov. 18, at Bedford Branch Library; Thursday, Nov. 21, at Dundee Branch Library; Monday, Dec. 2, at Dorsch Memorial Branch Library; and Wednesday, Dec. 4, at L.S. Navarre Branch Library.
There is also a presentation of Native American artifacts in the glass display case in building A.
Host families needed for exchange students

Two new exchange students will be coming to MCCC next semester. You can become a part of the cultural experience by hosting. Host familes are needed for the students who will be arriving in early January. Simon is 18 years old and is from the French speaking region of Belgium. He aspires to be a film director, and wants to study film and music. He is interested in art, music, computers, journalism, and political science. Simons travels have extended throuhghout Europe and the US. Now Simon would like to experience the American life by living with a host family, a college email said. Simon has studied languages such as German and Spanish. His hobbies include working out, basketball, golf, and squash. His best friend would describe him as someone who is open to new ideas and discovering the world, but also likes to discuss his opinion with others and learn about their views. Simon looks forward
Native American presentation held

To honor Native American Heritage Month, MCCC held a panel discussion open to the public on November 6. The meeting included MCCC President Dr. Kojo Quartey and local Native American leaders. On the agenda was a panel discussion about the use of Native American team names and mascot names in sports. It has been a highly talked about topic in the media, mainly Washington D.C.s football team, the Washington Redskins.
Students get chance to meet president

Anyone can meet Monroe County Community Colleges new President, Dr. Kojo Quartey during one of his scheduled appearances on his MCCC Presidential Listening Tour of Monroe County.
to getting know his new host family, the email said. Sun Ah is 20 years old and from South Korea. Sun Ah is attending a university in Korea. She is majoring in communication design wants to become an editorial designer or packaging designer. Her free time is spent by going to art and design exhibitions, watching movies, drawing, and taking walks. She and her friends sell handmade postcards at a local flea market. Sun Ah plays hobbies include playing the piano and badminton. She describes herself as shy at first, but is a naturally positive and friendly person. Her family has hosted three exchange students who she now considers sisters, the email said. Sun Ah s inspriration for studying abroad comes from her younger sister, who studied in the US. If you are interested in hosting a student next semester, please contact Megan McCaffery-Bezeau 734-384-4258 or mmccaffery-bezeau@monroeccc. edu.
arts students will be serving Modern American Bisto-themed cusine for its autumn season. Cuisine 1300, located in the A Building, is under the direction of Chefs Kevin Thomas and Vicki LaValle. Those who want to participate in the experience must book a reservation. Restaurant hours are Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 11:30 and 11:45 a.m. Reservations can be made by calling (734) 384-4231 between the hours of 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. Cuisine 1300 accepts cash and personal checks only. The restaurant will be closed Nov. 14, 15 and 27-29. The final date for fall will be Dec.11.
Art show scheduled at Whitman Center

An art show featuring art from the Bedford Artist Club is under way at the Whitman Center. It is free and open to the public. The show runs from Nov. 4 through Nov. 18 with a reception on November 6 at 6 p.m.
Cuisine 1300 opens for fall semester

The culinary arts restaurant is ready for customers. The second-year culinary
November 7, 2013
New punk albums excite fans

By Tim Green
Agora staff
A&E
|6
Well, hello there, please excuse the ax, my name is Sherri, my name is Max are the opening lyrics to the new Perma LP, Two of a Crime. Two of a Crime was released Oct. 29 of this year. Perma is the Texas based band formed
by alt-rocks power couple, Max Bemis of Say Anything and Sherri Dupree-Bemis of Eisley. The name Perma comes from an inside joke that Bemis used when he was attempting to court Dupree-Bemis. Instead of asking Dupree at the time to be his girlfriend he asked her to be his perma or his permanent. Bemis is no stranger to side projects, as he has done multiple projects while touring with Say Anything such as Max Bemis and the Painful Splits and Two Tongues, featuring Chris Conley of Saves the Day.
Two of a Crime is a comdownload though iTunes, alpilation of heartfelt love though if purchased though songs written about Bemis Equal Vision customers and Dupree-Bemis life will get three bonus tracks. together. This LP is such Signed CDs will be available sweet ear candy that it just when Bemis kicks off his might rot your teeth. solo tour Dec. 4 in Chicago at Lincoln Hall. Bemis departs from his dark and angst-filled lyrFlint, Michigans homeics of Say Anything and town heroes, The Swellers Painful Splits and replaces have released their fifth stuthem with sweet, harmodio album, The Light under nizing melodies composed Closed Doors. of happier times. The Light Under closed The album is comprised doors was released on Oct. of an acoustic guitar, small 29 by No Sleep Records. rhythmic tracks, and what The Swellers are a relaBemis and Dupree-Bemis tively unknown band, unless are known for most, their youre a Michigan native voices. who is into the indie-punk The songs easily display music scene. the influence of Bemis and That being said, The Durpree-Bemiss bands. Swellers have opened for Tracks like Little Light well-known bands such as and Lets start a band Less than Jake, Paramore, are Say Anything influand Motion City Soundtrack. enced. Others like WishThe Light Under Closed bone and The Bat and Door is a follow up from the the Cave sound more like self-produced five track EP, Eisley. Running out of Places to go. There is a confluence The Swellers sound hasnt of both bands that makes changed over the years. You the overall record rather could play their 2011, Ups balanced; its almost as if Photo courtesy of Flickr and Downsizing with the Bemis and Dupree-Bemis Nick Diener, the lead singer for The Swellers, formed the band in 2002 with his new album and be unable to planed for it to be that way, brother and another friend. Starting in Flint, MI, the band now tours all over the distinguish a difference. Alwhich makes sense, as they though, many might disagree are writing love songs in and say they have been living people who are deeply in love. tandem. in the shadow of their previous work. The album is currently available for Two of a Crime is the testament of two
While you could say that its a missed opportunity for the band to reinvent their sound, its impressive that the band has not followed musics current trend, a flavor of the month sound. The Light Under Closed Doors is an album that you listen to more than once before judging the sound. The first time you listen, you might feel like most of the songs sound the same, but you will be delighted to discover songs that stand out like Great Lake State and Should. The Swellers kicked off a six week tour on Oct. 17 to promote the new album at
The Light Under Closed Doors is an album that you listen to more than once before judging the sound.
With Abrams at the helm, Star Wars is safe

By Matt Mullins
Agora staff
First we heard that Disney bought Lucasfilm, then we heard that they were reboting the beloved Star Wars franchise. The image alone is too scary to completely comprehend picture Goofy in a Darth Vader costume, chuckling his way around the Death Star. Finally, we have an almost cemented idea of what is going on. J.J. Abrams is directing and co-writing the sci-fi franchise and we arent looking at a reboot,
we are going to see a continuation of the epic series set a long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away. J.J. Abrams is famous for the famed television show Lost and the recent reboot of Star Trek. There are plenty of other great titles under Abrams belt these are just a few that really relate to the upcoming Star Wars movies. In an interview with UKs The Times Magazine, Abrams gave some insight into his hopes for the film. The beauty of [the original film] was
that it was an unfamiliar world, Abrams told The Times, and yet you wanted to see it expand and to see where it went. With this being said, and other parts of the interview, it leads me to believe that he is going to bring us back to the spacewestern style of film that the original movies went for. Nothing lights up my world like a gritty space-western packed with light sabers and wookies. At first I was scared (like many other star wars fans) about Disney making the
Star Wars franchise more family-friendly by removing Yoda and adding Mickey Mouse. But now, with Abrams at the helm, we can finally rest assured that the movie will have a serious tone with some great action. Probably a few lens glares, too. My final thought? Anyone who can make Star Trek appeal to the young audience like he did, can certainly take an epic franchise like Star Wars and make it fresh again.
Photo courtesy Jeff Christiansen
The time is
Transfer and complete your bachelors degree at The University of Toledo, with our built-in suite of support services centered around you:
Now, get your very own success coach your personal guide from the first day of classes until graduation. Now, make the most of your transfer credits and life and work experiences. Now, visit our adult and transfer student services in one convenient location in Rocket Hall. Now, earn scholarships to help cover your cost of books, along with our affordable tuition rates.
Apply now for spring semester at utoledo.edu/admission/transfer
November 7 2013
Editorial
...He / she visited a different dealer than usual, and was told that the drug was indeed heroin.
reported in Joliet, Ill. A suburb of Chicago; the last report was in McHenry County, about an hour northwest of Chicago. According to a Chicago Tribune article, the person from McHenry County, whose name was kept private, said that he/she visited a different dealer than usual, and was told that the drug was indeed heroin. The user said that the price was cheaper than normal, and the high was different. According to their doctor, in the article from the Chicago Tribune, the lesions showed up a few days following the injection of the drug. Dawn Dearden, spokeswoman for the Drug Enforcement Agency, said that there hasnt been any confirmed cases, but also expressed her concern, during a recent article from newsweek.com Were absolutely, positively concerned about it making its way to the United States, said Dearden.
|7
Flesh-eating drug making its way to U.S.?

William Miko
Agora Staff
Reports of a new, deadly flesheating drug named Krokodil have surfaced close to home. Krokodil is the Russian word for crocodile. The drug has been given this name for two reasons: it originated in Russia, and green, scale-like spots can develop on the skin when abusers inject this deadly drug. It is reported that the drug Krokodil is made of codeine, gasoline, paint thinner, and a few other ingredients. Krokodil is an opiatebased drug, and is being reported as a cheaper alternative to heroin. Dr. Richard Friedman, director of the psychopharmacology clinic in New York, spoke of the dangers of this new drug. Youre poisoning yourself, it is very corrosive and toxic, said Friedman in an article from cbsnews.com The first two cases of these symptoms to be reported in America occurred this September in Arizona, which is a known drug trafficking hub for the Mexican cartels. In October, the Chicago Tribune reported that there were at least six people who have visited local hospitals and had unusual scalelike lesions on their bodies. Five of the six incidents were
Illustration by Darryl White
Its never a bad time to re-evaluate insurance

Stephanie Horney
For the Agora
Insurance is a bill that no one enjoys paying. Most people see it as a money pit that wont have any return. However, insurance should be considered a financial safety net. You have to have insurance on your vehicles, if you are driving. And you must have insurance on your home, if you have a mortgage. By having insurance on your vehicle, you ensure that you have coverage if your vehicle is in a wreck, or if you hurt someone. Having insurance on your home ensures that if your home were to burn down, or be destroyed in other ways, you have coverage to replace it, and any belongings that are in the home. Another part of insurance that most people think is not worth paying is personal liability coverage. Personal liability coverage makes sure that if you are in a car accident and you injure someone that you will have the money to pay for any lawsuit against you. The same goes for home insurance. If someone comes to your home, and falls down your stairs and severely injures themselves, your home owners liability would cover the lawsuit, depending on how much liability insurance you have. With auto insurance, liability coverage is mandatory. In auto insurance, many people keep their liability limits at the state minimum, which is $20,000/$40,000. These numbers mean that if you were in an automobile accident, and injured two people, and they each sue you for $20,000 you would be covered, because you have $20,000 each person/$40,000 each ac-
Re-evaluate your insurance every few years. Companies are constantly going through rate increases and decreases, and it will never hurt you to shop around. You are not limited to shopping only when your policy is going to renew.
will adjust their rates based on their state alone. Re-evaluate your insurance every few years. Companies are constantly going through rate increases and decreases, and it will never hurt you to shop around. You are not limited to shopping only when your policy is going to renew. Companies will refund any un-used premium back to you if you switch at any point during your current term. Another helpful hint to drivers is to shop around two years after a ticket or accident. Two years is the chargeable time for violations such as speeding tickets. If the date falls during the middle of a policy term, the ticket will not come off the policy until it renews. When getting a new quote, those tickets are not chargeable after two years. Insurance may not help your bank account, but is necessary to keep you, your family, and your assets protected. Do your homework, and dont be afraid to shop around.
cident. If you were in the same accident, and were sued for $30,000 by each of the two hurt individuals, you would not have enough money in liability insurance. In most cases, this would mean that your assets (house, car, savings,) would be taken to pay the remainder of the lawsuit. In cases where there are larger amounts that need to be paid, all of your assets being taken would be followed by wage garnishments. Usually 25 percent of your
check will be taken from each paycheck, until your debt has been paid. Looking at the amount of money and assets that can be taken in the event of an accident, a lot of people realize that paying $5 extra a month can make a huge difference. Insurance companies are everywhere, and there are companies that cover just about anything you can think of. Each company has its own rates, and therefore has different prices. Some companies are nationwide, and can cover anyone in any state. These companies have advantages
like online accessibility, and funny television commercials. There are also statewide companies that can cover only a single state. These companies also have advantages to them, such as having offices near you that you can speak to your actual agent, and having adjusters that come out and survey and discuss coverage with you after a loss. Nationwide companies have to account for natural disasters across the country, and will reflect their rates to what happens across the country. Statewide companies
Eye catching resume tips

Barry Kinsey
For the Agora
We all know what a resume is, right? Well here is what I think it is: A RESUME is a marketing document that communicates your ability to produce significant results better than other qualified candidates. It sums up your working life and educational history. It highlights your credentials for a job and helps an employer determine your ability and potential fit. It gets your foot in the door for the all-important interview. One of the most difficult things to do in a resume is to describe to the reader what you did/do at your last/current job. So often resumes just re-state the job seekers current job description; they do not describe what they did. Here is an example of what I am describing. Typical Resume Work Experience Description: Position: Assistant Manager at McDonalds Description: Assisted in the operation of a busy fast food establishment. Responsible for the cook line crew, for assuring good customer service and efficiency of the restaurant. Responsible for budgeting and managing personnel files. Received two good service awards. Not bad but how does this com-
pare? Position: Assistant Manager at McDonalds Description: Supervised a crew of 12 in the continuous operation of a cook line and point of sale. Created weekly schedule for 24 hour, seven day a week operation. Consistently worked within a quarterly budget of $57,000. Ensured excellent customer service for all patrons. Maintained human resource records, including hiring information, performance reviews and disciplinary actions. Twice earned Employee of the Month honors. Made improvement suggestions that reduced annual operating costs by 1.79% annually. This second example of recording your job description is known as the Seven Keys of Experience. With the Seven Keys of
Experience, you use the following when possible in your descriptions: Total $, Total #s, Value Added, One Time Accomplishments, Waste/Scrap Reductions, + or -, and % Points. It is also helpful to begin each statement with an adverb. In this second example, you know that the job applicant can supervise up to 12, manage a $200,000 budget ($57,000 x 4), perform human resource duties, was an exemplary employee, and has the ability to cut costs. If you would like to learn more about creating an eye catching resume, please plan on attending one of our Free Resume Workshops at 1:30 pm Thursday. Nov 21 at 5 p.m. Monday, Dec 9. To attend one (both are the same) of these workshops or to register for our services, you can visit our website at http://www. collegecentral.com/monroeccc/ or stop by the Office of Workforce Development in Room 286 of the La-Z-Boy Center or contact Tammy Suzor 734-384-4270 or Barry Kinsey 734-384-4124 in the Office of Workforce Development or email us at workforce@monroeccc.edu. You can also like us on Facebook at Monroe County Community College Employment Assistance/Workforce Development or follow us on Twitter @ MCCC
Give yourself a break

Ray Bell
For The Agora
Break Time? Before I begin this, I want to thank all of you who read my column. Its a bit weird for me to get recognition for something so miniscule as an advice column. So, I thank you very much. With that aside, there are times where everyone, anywhere, just needs a break from everything. Family, school, work, a significant other (not that I am endorsing cheating on anyone.) We all need a break from something to relieve the stress put on each of us everyday. Some people use the breaks between classes to unwind and relax before getting back into the rhythm of things. Others use the quiet time when they are at home in front of the TV to soothe their minds to a lull. However you take a break is up to you. Where am I going with this? I feel that there are right and wrong ways to take breaks, because their are some people who just cannot unplug themselves from the stress that surrounds them. And if anyone deserves a break, its those people. So here are my tips to taking a break. First, find your Fortress of Solitude. Everyone needs one place where no one can bother
First, find your Fortress of Solitude. Everyone needs one place where no one can bother you and you
you and you can quietly relax. This place can be in your car, your bedroom, even a library or coffee shop. This place is yours to unwind. Second, remove anything that will disrupt the relaxing energy. Having something in your space that will be disruptive to your relaxing flow would easily cause you to be even more stressed. Things like phones, TV, video games anything like this that will not help you relax. Third, music is good. I know this is a basic tip, but through my experiences, I have noticed how my mood changes from stressed to calm in a matter of three songs (roughly ten to fifteen minutes). Its relaxing enough that you can begin the soothing process. Lastly, set a time limit on your relaxing time. When people relax too much, they begin to procrastinate and lose their focus on what they need to do. Having a set amount of time to relax not only
gives you a moment to relax, but its never allows your mind to forget the tasks you have to achieve, like a last-minute paper, or assignment. So with these tips, I hope you find your relaxing methods and that you will be a little less stressed when it comes to life in general. Stay Classy.
Sports Detroit Pistons boast talented new line-up

November 7, 2013
By Josh Rains
For the Agora
|8
Entering the 2013-14 NBA season, fans of the Detroit Pistons have a lot to be excited about. Off-season acquisitions Brandon Jennings, Josh Smith and Chauncey Billups, along with new head coach Maurice Cheeks, give this Pistons outfit a level of talent they havent had in several seasons. With a new front line featuring the athletic Smith, low-post stalwart Greg Monroe, and the dynamic young center Andre Drummond, the Pistons should be able to win the rebounding battle and protect the paint on a nightly basis. Jennings replaces former first-round draft pick Brandon Knight at point guard, and projects as an upgrade in the pick and roll game, and as a drive and kick playmaker. In a move that will help as much off the court as it will on the court, Joe Dumars signed the 2004 finals MVP winner Chauncey Billups. Billups has the versatility to play the point or shooting guard positions, and has the track record as a leader and big shot maker that this team needs. Maurice Cheeks replaces Lawrence Frank as head coach and should be able to command respect immediately. Hes a former all-star point guard in the league, and will bring credentials that Frank lacked.
Accompanying Cheeks on the sidelines is first year assistant coach, and former Piston, Rasheed Wallace. Wallace has long been revered for his knowledge on both ends of the court, and spent the off-season helping Drummond develop his lowpost game. The Pistons also look to have a solid bench. Point guard Will Bynum thrives in the pick and roll with Drummond, first-round draft pick Kentavious Caldwell-Pope is an athletic defender and solid long range shooter, forwards Kyle Singler and Luigi Datome offer three point shooting ability, as do stretch power forwards Jonas Jerebko and Charlie Villanueva, while Rodney Stuckey offers versatility as an option at point or on the wing. The Pistons main concern this season will be spacing. While the new frontcourt should thrive on the defensive end and be able to own the glass, there is question as to whether all of the players can coexist on the offensive side of the court. If the Pistons struggle with spacing early on, dont be surprised if Dumars looks to trade Monroe and some of his players with expiring contracts, like Stuckey and Villanueva, for a small forward with shooting ability. All in all, this Pistons team is too talented to not make the playoffs. Look for them to be in the top half of their conference and start filling the Palace of Auburn Hills once again.
Photo courtesy of Wikipedia
Jim Leyland has become a fan-favorite over the span of eight years with the Detroit Tigers. In recent years, as the Tigers have lost their playoff games, some fans took their anger out on Leyland, claiming it was time for him to go.
Beloved Detroit manager announces retirment

By William Miko
Agora Staff
Photo Courtesy of Wikipedia
Rasheed Wallace, a former starting Piston, has been hired as an assistant coach for Detroit. His former teammate, Chauncy Billups, has been resigned to Detroit after a six-year span of playing with other teams.
After his team was eliminated from the playoffs, Jim Leyland announced his retirement as manager of the Detroit Tigers. In their third consecutive year of playing in the ALCS, the Tigers were not able to advance to the World Series During a Monday press conference following the ALCS loss, Leyland approached the podium tearyeyed, and expressed his gratitude toward the Detroit Tigers organization. I came here to change talent to team, and I think with the help of the entire organization, weve done that; weve won quite a bit, Leyland said. And I am very grateful to have been a small part of that. Now, he wants to retire as a Tiger. For eight years, Leyland coached the Detroit Tigers and contributed to 700 wins. Despite his six-year hiatus from managing, he is retiring with a potential Hall of Fame resume. Leyland is ranked 14 of all-time in baseball with
3,499 games managed, and 15 in wins with 1,769. In 22 seasons as a major league manager, half of his time resulted in first or second place team finishes. Leyland is not only known for his success as a baseball manager, but also for letting the umpires have it when they made a bad call. Leyland, known to sneak in a quick cigarette between innings, provided fans with entertaining and colorful lectures toward umpires who he felt were in the wrong. Leyland is one of the last of a dying breed of baseball managers; his old-school approach to the game will be missed, and difficult to replace. The Tigers organization has since hired Brad Ausmus, a former Tiger, to replace Leyland. Ausmus, 44, played in the Major Leagues for 18 years, twice as a Tiger. He has no previous manager expirience; he retired from playing only three years ago. I have a pretty good feel for the modern-day player, Ausmus said. What the makeup is, what the mindset is.
You can finish your bachelors 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
Did you know
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.
THE
King Lear comes to MCCC
gora A
www.mcccagora.com
Aug. 26, 2010 Vol. 55, Issue January 30, 2014 Vol. 59, Issue 1 1
Polar Plunge Pictures Page 3
MCCC offers classes at Monroe High

By Stevie Pipis
Agora Staff
Faculty weighs in on controversial decision
MCCC English professor William McCloskey played the lead in King Lear, a Monroe Community Players Production presented at Meyer Theater Jan. 24-26. McCloskey also was assistant director of the play.
Enrollment drop causes concerns

By Melanie Jacobs-Davis
Agora staff
With enrollment down for the sixth straight semester, MCCC is facing tough times. Along with enrollment dropping, so is the colleges retention of students, Mark Hall, director of Admissions at MCCC, told the Board of Trustees Monday night. Fewer students means less money, and the college cant keep
operating in the red, Hall said. Were down 350 students from where we were at this time last year, Hall told the board. Thats quite a substantial number. Winter enrollment is 3,593, compared to 3,943 last winter. Enrollment has dropped each semester since the winter of 2011. MCCC President Dr. Kojo Quartey told the board he has plans to turn the college enroll-
ment around. He has created an enrollment management plan. In terms of our plans, he said, a major push is for us to get into the high schools. Not only does Quartey want to address auditoriums full of 11th and 12th grade students, but he also wants to offer college classes in the high schools.
Continued on page 3
MCCCs recent decision to offer college classes at Monroe High School has sparked controversy among college faculty. Starting in September 2014, Monroe High School students will be able to take MCCC classes at the high school. The classes will only be available to Monroe High students who meet college entrance standards, such as the Compass test. The decision was made by MCCC President Kojo Quartey, without involving the faculty. According to Quartey, faculty members were limiting their involvement in college affairs because they didnt have a contract. Faculty members learned of the decision through a flier that was issued by the high school and circulated among the MCCC faculty through e-mail. Monroe High School Principal Valerie Orr approached Quartey with the idea shortly after they were both hired in their respective positions last summer. He and I were both hired right around the same time, and we got together. I spoke to him about this idea because I had done this in my previous district, and he was very open and excited about it, Orr said. I also spoke to the officials at Monroe Public Schools; they were excited about it, and then we just got rolling on it. The program would allow Monroe High students an opportunity to take college level classes without leaving the high school. The district will pay the students tuition for the class, Orr said. In order for the students to
Monroe High School Principal Valerie Orr
take a college-level class, they will need to pass the Compass test and meet the same requirements as any first-year student at MCCC, both Quartey and Orr emphasized. The classes will be available for anyone who meets these requirements, from freshmen to senior, they said. According to Quartey, the classes at the high school will be taught by professors who are qualified to teach at MCCC. This could include current full-time or adjunct faculty members, or the possible hiring of new adjunct faculty. Orr said some current high school teachers are thinking about applying for the adjunct teaching positions. Professors at the college are upset over certain details in the program and not being involved in the decision making process. There are opportunities for high school students to be here at Monroe County Community College, said Mark Bergmooser, president of the faculty union and a speech professor. We have dual enrollment, and weve had that for years, so they already have that option to come
here and take those classes. He added that one reason high school students succeed in college classes may be the advantages of being on a college campus. Its been a few years now since the Middle College began out here. One of the main reasons we were told that the Middle Colleges are successful is the power of the site, or the power of the place, Bergmooser said. Lisa Scarpelli, a geology professor, also raised concerns about the classes being taught in a different environment. If you have a group of students who are between 15 and 17 years old in a classroom, then that environment is not a college environment, she said. English professor William McCloskey raised a similar concern about the adult material sometimes covered in college classes. Sometimes, when you know you have a young person in there who doesnt have a world view, or an experience, sometimes its hard, and I have to catch myself Should I talk about this? I always end up saying, Yes I am, because this is college, McCloskey said. One of Scarpellis biggest concerns is how the decision was made, without being brought through the colleges internal governance system. Scarpelli serves as a chairwoman of the Faculty Council, one of three councils in the system. Bergmooser also raised concerns about the Faculty Association the union not being involved with the decision making process because of possible contractual conflicts.
Continued on page 3
Campus vineyard to offer wine-making classes

Mariah Tevepaugh
Agora staff
MCCCs own vineyard is now producing grapes, and courses in viticulture will follow soon. Vineyard 1300, located on the east edge of campus, will be used by students in the Viticulture and Enology program and will be available to community members as well. Classes on viticulture, the study of grapes, and enology, the study of wine making, will soon be offered to students. Were hoping by the winter of 2015 to have our first course or courses in place, said Kevin Thomas, Instructor of Culinary Skills and Management. Thats if everything goes according to plan. Thomas said. It all started with the Bacchus Society at MCCC, Thomas said. The group came together to restore the wine industry in Monroe, which was once booming in the 1800s. It was a bunch of people that all had a similar interest, a wine enthusiasm, towards wine and the wine industry, Thomas said. And its how we all got together and decided to do this. The courses being offered could include topics like wines for beginners or soil management. Al-
though specific courses have not yet been decided, if it were up to Thomas the courses would focus on both food and wine. It would be great to have classes, for me as a chef, that involve food and wine, whether that means food and wine tastings or samplings of some sort, Thomas said. But the more I can teach the food and wine combined, the better it would be for the culinary students. Even though the harvesting process beings in early fall, classes would be offered in both fall and winter semesters. There are 90 plants and five varieties of grapes in the vineyard. The students in the program will be producing red and white wine from the vineyard, but they will be experimenting with cooler climate grapes as well. The culinary students have already been able to visit Vineyard 1300. Our class has been back to Vineyard 1300, Kim Cousino, first year culinary student said. We manicured the vineyard. Renovations are currently being made to the former welding labs in the West Tech building for wine labs for the new courses. There has actually been very little progress in
renovation of the rooms, simply some removal of fixtures and a little cleaning, said Paul Knollman, Dean of the Business Division. Once the renovations are completed and the courses are constructed, there are many benefits of the new program to students and the community, Knollman said. We will have courses and transfer affiliations with other institutions from around the country, which other community colleges in the state do not, Knollman said. Our on-campus lab facilities and the fact that we have an instructional vineyard will also be unique. Some community benefits are the possibility of having wedding receptions or other types of events at the vineyard. Although the wine would not be for sale, it could be used for special events at the college. Thomas said. There is also an idea called Community Crush, for local community members. They would able to turn their own grapes into wine by bringing their grapes into the wine lab for crushing and de-stemming. It would be a service we would offer as part of our wine lab, Thomas said.
Photo by Mariah Tevepaugh
Chef Kevin Thomas displays wine from the first harvest of vineyard 1300
Campus News......................2,3 Features.................................4 A&E......................................5,6 Editorial...................................7 Sports......................................8
Inside:
Bookstore Hours:
www.mcccagora.com
Library Hours:
LAL/Writing Center:
January 30 , 2014
Campus News
|2
MCCC celebrates diversity with fair
Photo By Lauren Robinson
Professor Terry Telfer, adviser of the International Students for Social Equality, speaks to a student during the Diversity Fair.
M
Agora Staff
By Shelby Spencer
CCC went beyond just MLK Day and celebrated all diversity on campus. MCCC hosted a diversity fair on Monday, Jan. 20, that was kicked off by volunteers marching from the CTC to the A building while singing We Shall Overcome. This symbolized Martin Luther King Jrs march in 1963, when he gave his famous I Have a Dream speech. The idea for the march was proposed by President Kojo Quartey. As a people, our greatest strength is in our diversity, Quartey said. Twelve booths were set up in the A building to showcase the many diversified clubs and organizations that are on campus. There was everything from the Student Ambassador group to an Islamic Religion booth. I didnt realize how much diversity we have here at the college, Im glad I came today or else I wouldnt have known, said Nicole Denman, a freshman at MCCC. Students and staff spent time visiting booths, asking questions, and enjoying the international dessert table. There was a lot of discussion about bridging the gap of equality. Its great to share culture. I love to see diversity and people coming together to close the gap in culture, said R.J. Fiest, who was helping to run the Native American booth. He said the Diversity Fair gave him a great opportunity to explain myths and facts in Native American culture.
The International Students for Social Equality explained to people that bridging the gap is a battle of classes. Equality has to start in our economic system, said Terry Telfer, club adviser. We have to act internationally and stop being used against each other. Christopher Holmes, a member of Student Government, thinks that diversity and equality all boil down to acceptance. We should all strive to reach an understanding. We are all human and we cant keep society stable without acceptance, he said. Quartey says that while MCCC may not be the most diverse college, there is an excellent display of diversity celebrated here. He takes pride in the colleges Diversity Committee, which acts as the committee for the entire county. As part of the MLK celebration, there was also a seminar on Monday night in the LaZ-Boy center called A Quest for Justice, which featured Dr. Marci Ybarra, a professor at the University of Chicago who discussed welfare reform. Dr Joanna Sabo discussed Immigration and International Migration Issues, and Dr, Melissa Grey discussed LGBT Social Justice Issues. Director of Human Resources Molly McCutchan said she was happy with the amount of participation in all of the events. The goal is to increase awareness and promote unification, she said McCutchan encourages everyone to look out for the We Shall Overcome march next year, because the more people participate, the more powerful the march will be.
Photo by Lauren Robinson
The African American Culture booth honored Martin Luther King Jr. Day by including his photo among the art pieces.
One Book One Community gearing up for Spring event

By Julia Wells
Agora Staff
Reyna Grande will be visiting on March 26.
Planning for Monroe Countys annual reading event, One Book One Community, is well under way. The Distance Between Us, by Reyna Grande ,has been chosen for the community to read. The idea is the book should have some themes that are going to provoke some conversation, said Cheryl Johnston, co-chair of the committee that plans the event. About eight books were under consideration, she said. In this book, Grande writes about her own experiences immigrating to the U.S from Mexico and the struggles she faced along the way. It is rare when an immigrant gets to tell his/her story with his/her own voice. Also, I think readers appreciate the honesty in my book. I dont romanticize the immigrant experience. I dont shy away from telling the hard truths, Grande said in an email. While group reads, film showings, and panel discussions are already planned among the community,
It is rare when an immigrant gets to tell his/her story with his/her own voice. Also, I think readers appreciate the honesty in my book
Reyna Grande Author of The Distance Between Us new events inspired by the culture in the book, are in the works as well. Were going to do some things with the Mexican culture and Spanish-speaking culture, Johnston said. One event this year will take place at La Fiesta, a local Mexican restaurant, which will serve as a fundraiser for the event. The Friends of One Book is a new program which accepts donations that provide access to the book for schools, including MCCC, around the community.
Grande also spoke about the universal appeal of her books. The Distance Between Us has been read all over the country and has received positive acknowledgment, she said. I believe that my readers appreciate not being hit over the head with my own views on immigration, but rather, I give them the negative and the positive, and I let the readers come to their own conclusions she said. On March 26, Grande will be speaking on the MCCC campus, followed by a book signing. The author will answer student questions about her book, life, and career. She also hopes to answer questions that offer insight to aspiring writers in the audience. My advice is to learn as much as you can about the writing world and have a plan of action by the time you graduate from school. Learning the craft is very important, but learning the business side of writing is just as important. OBOC will kick off on March 19 and will conclude on April 11. The Agora is sponsoring a panel discussion on immigration reform on April 1.
Staff
Editor: Julia Wells
Jacob Adams Reggie Allen Jeffrey Brown Melanie Jacobs-Davis Katie Mullins Stephen Pipis Lauren Robinson Shelby Spencer Mariah Tevepaugh 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 youd like to see in The Agora - its your newspaper. E-mail submissions: agora@monroeccc.edu .
Ambassador Club strives to help new students

By Mariah Tevepaugh
Agora Staff
Adviser: Dan Shaw
Members of MCCCs new Ambassador Club are looking forward to meeting prospective students and helping them feel comfortable on campus. As college students, were already the youth of yesterday so its up to us to prepare our youth to run the communitys future, said Chris Holmes, president of the Ambassador Club. The club is trying to focus on being a part of most events to let other students and faculty know who they are and what their mission is. The members set up a hot-chocolate booth as their first appearance at the college to help students get to know who the ambassadors are. They also attended the Diversity Fair on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Were in the infancy stages, said Tom Ryder, club advisor. Were just getting our feet wet. Ryder said. The club members will be going along with MCCC counselors when they visit local high schools like Monroe High School, Dundee High School, Saint Mary Catholic Central and Airport High School. The members are able to answer most questions because of their
training, which focused on MCCCs mission, financial aid and registration. They will also be able to give in-depth tours of the campus to parents and students. My first couple of years Id see students walking around lost, Mandi Davis, club secretary, said. So I wanted to create a committee to give tours so lost students wouldnt be like, Wheres my class? Club members will attend events with MCCC President Kojo Quartey, to inform others about the college. This is a dedicated group of students that will be able to go out with Kojo, and be able to talk to those groups and answer questions about the college, Ryder said. The Ambassador Club members also get to meet with business leaders around town, which could potentially help them land a job later in life. You never know when you go out into the real world or you apply for a job, Ryder said. Those people are going to remember you and say, oh yeah youre that ambassador from the college, I remember you.
January 30, 2014
Campus News
|3
Erin Menard, Madonna University basketball player, trys to stay warm after her and fellow teamates plunged.
Residents take icy swim for charity

The cold could not keep away members of the community from taking a plunge for a cause. People stripped down and dressed up to dive for Special Olympic awareness. Donations were also made to support the Special Olympics.
Event coordinater, Stacie Ourlian (right) and Taylor Krumski excite the crowd by jumping into the frigid waters.
Cliff Denoewer shows off his bone collecter costume.
Christian Carlton shows no fear as he gets ready to take the plunge.
Photos by Reggie Allen
Faculty question high school classes

Continued from page 1
Bergmooser, McCloskey and Scarpelli are all concerned about the integrity of the college. I am worried that that will water down those courses being offered at the high school, Scarpelli said. Quartey is not concerned with the program harming the integrity of the college or the course material. The professor in the classroom remains the integrity of the college, Quartey said. How does one measure integrity; its based on admission standards. This is not going to have any negative effects on the integrity of the college. Every single student who takes any of these courses will have qualified to be admitted to this institution. Vice President Grace Yackee is forming a taskforce to help college faculty understand the program. Faculty expressed concern regarding offering MCCC classes for dual enrollment at high school locations, Yackee said in an email. The task force was established to address faculty concerns and to establish a protocol for offering MCCC classes for dual enrollment at high schools.
She said faculty concerns included: Will faculty teaching the classes be qualified? Can a college class really be a college class if all students are of high school age? Will faculty teaching the college class at the high school be pressured to award passing grades? Will the College be able to meet demand if additional high schools request dual enrollment on site? How will offering dual enrollment at high schools impact dual enrollment classes offered at MCCC, including the Whitman Center? Yackees e-mail also addressed the concern some professors have had over the colleges integrity. It should be noted that the Colleges institutional accrediting body, the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools established guidelines for peer evaluators to consider when evaluating member institutions offering dual enrollment, Yackee said. Both Quartey and Orr have operated this program in districts where they have worked Chicago City Colleges and Wayne Memorial High School, respectively. Both said it was successful. According to Quartey, there are multiple reasons why the college will offer classes at Monroe High.
One is convenience; another is transportation. I think the most important variable here is that there is a need. I think its convenience, for the high school students whose parents are taxpayers in this community who support us, he said. Yes, transportation is part of that equation. Quartey also mentioned safety and weather issues. According to Quartey, the program will raise enrollment numbers and generate more money for the college. The tuition for the classes will be paid by the Monroe School district, which will get the money from state funding, Orr said. Monroe High students have responded well and 500 students have signed up to take the Compass test, Orr said. Im excited to get credit hours before college, Monroe High School student Tyler Hammack said. Hammack plans on attending Michigan State University after high school. For more information on the classes being offered at Monroe High, the Monroe High School website has the classes listed in its curriculum guide at http://www.monroe.k12.mi.us/MonroeHS.cfm.
President has plans to grow enrollment

Between now and April, were going to hit all the high schools here in this county, downriver, and close to the border in Ohio, he said, telling them about this great institution. Hall said the Admissions office pays attention to the numbers every day, especially in the weeks leading up the start of a semester. We decided to make a campus wide initiative; everybody from administrators to faculty, to administrative assistants, Hall said. We made over 1,300 phone calls. He said its an effort to encourage students from the previous semester to come back and register for classes. Along with the Enrollment Management Plan, Quartey has created the Student Ambassador Program. This program utilizes MCCC students to help in recruitment and welcoming of students. He also plans to launch an Alumni Ambassador Program as well. This story needs to be told; Im going to stand on the highest mountain and yell it, Im going to yell it to my friends, Im going to yell it to my enemies, Quartey said last semester.
January 30 2014
Ryder an important part of MCCC

By Katie Gerweck
For the Agora
Features
|4
Most students know Tom Ryder as the Student Government advisor, but not everyone knows his other responsibilities. Many people may not know that Tom Ryder wears several hats at MCCC, said John Joy, Dean of Corporate and Community Services. Ryder, 47, is the coordinator of Events and Student Activities at MCCC, and has worked for the college for 27 years. He initially worked as a student assistant in the Graphics Department while getting his associates degree from MCCC. From there he worked in the Copy Center for 14 years before becoming the Events and Fitness Activities coordinator. Then, about five years ago, Ryder gave up the Fitness Center part of his job to take on the role of Student Government adviser. I love working with students, Ryder said. According to MCCCs website, Student Government is a club that plans activities for the campus. It also gives students the chance to have their opinion heard. First and foremost, its the voice of the students. I think it provides leadership opportunities for students, Ryder said. Photo by Julia Wells Ryder said former students have said On any given day, Tom Ryder can be seen around campus, checking up on the many projects he is involved in. Ryder often chats their experience in Student Government with student government members and also coordinates the entertainment acts at the La-Z-Boy center. has helped them take on leadership roles in their professional lives. Other former many events throughout the year, Ryder I welcome input from anybody on esting. students have credited Student Govern- said that some of his favorites are Family who they want to see or hear, he said. I am not big on repeating shows on a ment with personal development. Fun Night and the Sweetheart Ball. Although Ryder listens to everyones regular basis, he said. I gained the strength to stand up for Part of the reason those are really feedback, sometimes not everyones Planning the events takes some time; myself and how to actually take control good events is that theyre challenging wishes can be accommodated. Ryder said he is already starting to work of my life, said former Student Govern- for the students to put on, and gives them on the budget for next season. Once the The problem I see is that the performment member Samantha Brooks. a chance to be leaders, Ryder said. ers the typical 18-,19-,20-year-old wants performers are booked, Ryder said he Current members of Student GovernRyder is also responsible for booking to see are too expensive for a 550-seat does the initial writing for the marketing ment recognize Ryders role in the clubs performers for the Meyer Theater and ad- theater. I think if students came to the brochure. He then works with the Marsuccess. dressing the terms in their contracts, like shows we do have they would thoroughly keting Department to get it developed. Tom cares a lot about the students. hotel rooms and set design. enjoy it. Ryders Student Assistant, Blaine HubHes willing to help us in any way he When planning the events, Ryder said bert, said this is one of the many things While looking for potential performers, can, said Student Government Vice Ryder gathers information from twelve that he tries to keep performances afford- he has learned while working with Ryder. President Michelle McDevitt. Tom is the different agents and reviews videos. He able; most tickets are in the $20-$25 price My favorite thing about working for best at everything, except having hair. range. He also tries to keep things inter- Tom is the plethora of things Ive learned also takes suggestions. Although Student Government puts on
working under his wing. The biggest thing I have learned is that advertising makes the show happen, said Hubbert in an e-mail. Ryder said the most popular events are comedy shows and tribute bands. Acts paying tribute to the Beatles, Shania Twain, the Eagles, and Neil Diamond have all performed in the Meyer Theater. However, Ryder said the most popular event happened before the Meyer Theater was constructed, when performances were held in the dining room. Barry Williams, who played Greg Brady in the Brady Bunch, came to tell stories about himself and the Brady Bunch. Channels 13 and 11 came, and the event made the front page of the Monroe Evening News. It was standing room only, Ryder said. Ryder will soon be taking on another role as the advisor for the Student Ambassador Club, a group he developed with the help of MCCC President Kojo Quartey. According to Ryder, only twelve students will be selected for the club, which will act as a welcoming committee on campus, as well as giving tours, talking to the community about MCCCs student groups, and visiting high schools to talk about MCCC. Ryder said the members of the Student Ambassador Club will be trained by various administrators so they have knowledge of the programs on campus. I hope that we get a group of students that can go out into the community and show the community what MCCC is all about, Ryder said. Clearly, Tom Ryder is an important part of MCCC. Without Toms creativity, energy, and dedication, the campus and student events at MCCC, and the cultural and entertainment opportunities available in Monroe County overall, would be sorely lacking, Joy said. Tom is a terrific ambassador for MCCC, and more importantly he is just a good person!
Photo by Julia Wells
Photo by Julia Wells
Study abroad expands student horizons

By Jeffrey Brown
Agora staff
Ryder lended a hand to decorate the Student Government booth at this months Diversity Fair.
Along with students and staff, Ryder marched on MLK day singing We Shall Overcome.
MCCC Study Abroad 2015 will give students valuable experiences for their future. The best part about study abroad is what it does for the students after, rather than during, said Joanna Sabo, the professor who introduced the Study Abroad program to the college. The Study Abroad 2015 trip will tentatively take place May 11through May 27, traveling through seven countries in Western Europe during the 18day trip. The trip will include stops the Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, France, Great Britain and Ireland. Classes that can be taken are Comparative Politics, taught by Joanna Sabo, Art Appreciation, taught by Gary Wilson, and Business Management, taught by Wendy Wysocki. Students can take three to nine credits, but have to take at least one class while on the trip. The trip will cost approximately $4,100,which might sound steep, but with fund raising, low interest student loans and federal aid the cost can go way down, Sabo said.
Study Abroad 2015 meetings

Monday, Feb. 3, 7:30 p.m. L-Z Rm. 257 Tuesday, Feb. 4, 12:30 p.m. L-Z Rm. 257 Thursday, Feb. 6, 8:30 p.m. L-Z, Rm. 257 Monday, Feb. 24, 7:30 p.m. L-Z, Rm. 258 Thursday, March 20, 8:30 p.m. L-Z Rm. 258
Ive never had a student say they regret paying for it, Sabo said. Eastern Michigan University and other area universities accept the study abroad courses, Sabo said. Professor Dan Shaw joined the program in 2011 on the trip to Central Europe and then led the 2013 trip to Spain and Portugal. As our world becomes smaller, more of a global village, it becomes more important for students to have traveled abroad. It looks good on your resume, and it really does open your eyes to the world around you. Shaw said. He said the Spain trip was a huge success with students. Spain was an awesome place to visit. The combination of history, culture and cool cities was perfect. We had a great group, and it seemed like there was a statewide event to help students and their parents complete the 2014-2015 FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). The event will be from 2-4 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 9. Valerie Culler, MCCC director of financial aid, said she is looking for volunteers to help with registration and to assist students and parents in completing the FAFSA on the web.
an experience of a lifetime around every corner, Shaw said. Logan Jacobs, a MCCC student and President of the International Studies Club, is one of the students who studied abroad last year. The study abroad trip is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that has a unique way of expanding a students horizons and opening their eyes to a much larger world than the one they have grown comfortable with, Jacobs said. The MCCC Study Abroad trip takes place every other year, but in addition to that, culinary students are traveling to Italy in 2014. Chef Kevin Thomas and I are taking a group of culinary students to Italy for a study abroad that is specifically on cuisine, Shaw said. This trip is shorter than the normal study abroad trips, which are usually longer to help soak up the culture, Shaw said. This is a new kind of trip for us. Instead of students taking courses on the trip, the entire trip is built around culinary experiences. Well visit a vineyard, a slow food restaurant, an olive press, a chocolate factory and a ham factory, as well as two universities that offer world-class food programs, Shaw said.
Photo by Dan Shaw
Study abroad was a cultural journey for students in the 2013 trip to Spain
Briefly
DTE honored for MCCC

DTE Energy won a national award for the assistance it has given MCCC over the last few years. DTE Energy was named a 2013 national Benefactor of the Year by the Council for Resource Development at the organizations annual conference. MCCC nominated DTE Energy for the reward in recognition of the companys support for the college. Some of the partnerships cited in the colleges nomination were: The creation of a renewable energy program at the college. Support for the establishment of the areas first construction management technology certificate program. Joint development of the nuclear engineering technology program, resulting in a $200,000 federal grant.
Campus Calendar 2014

Board of Trustees decided Monday on the beginning and ending dates for the upcoming semesters. Spring classes will begin on Monday, May 12, 2014. Summer classes will start on Monday, June 23, 2014. Both Spring and Summer classes will end on Saturday, Aug. 2, 2014. Fall 2014 classes will start on Thursday, Aug. 28, and end on Monday, Dec. 15.
The installation of a 500-kilowatt solar installation on MCCCs campus Most notably, in March of this year, the DTE Energy Foundation made a $1 million commitment to the capital campaign for the colleges Career Technology Center, representing the largest gift of the campaign to date and the second-largest in the DTE Energy Foundations history.
Weight challenge
MCCC employees are participating in an 8-week weight loss challenge. Participants weighed in on Jan. 10, and the final weigh-in will be March 7. The challenge is to lose 10 pounds during the 8-week period.
Entrepreneur event held

MCCC hosted a roundtable discussion Jan. 22 with bankers, corporate executives, entrepreneurs, economic development professionals and college faculty and administrators to strategize how the community can work together to nurture a more entrepreneurial and creative culture. MCCC President Dr. Kojo Quartey convened the panel and led the discussion.
College Goal Sunday Feb. 9

MCCC is participating in College Goal Sunday,
January 30, 2014
A&E
Ive always said one of the best kept secrets in Monroe is our own college band; for those who do know about it, they always enjoy it.
Tom Ryder Student Events Coordinator
With over one hundred members, the Monroe College band fills up the stage. They will be playing on February 24. Ryder said for those who know about the band, it is always enjoyable. Ive always said one of the best kept secrets in Monroe is our own college band; for those who do know about it, they always enjoy it, he said. For students with children, The Teacher From The Black Lagoon and Other Story-
|5
Meyer Theater offers events for all ages

By Jacob Adams
Agora staff
A Meyer Theater promotion is giving students tickets at half price. Any student who shows up at least 30 minutes before a performance can buy up to two tickets at half price. On February 8 at 7 p.m. is the Monroe Big Band, a local group consisting of about 30 members. Tom Ryder, Student Events Coodinator, said the band has been popular with audiences. They do a great show, I think the last time they were here they sold out, he said. Monroe County Community College has partnered with the Monroe County Library for over twenty years for the next event, Black History Blues. The event is free and open to the public and starts at 7 p.m. on February 22. Ryder says the event usually fills the theater. If you want to get a seat, you better get here early, he said.
books will be here March 14. Designed for children 10 and under, it starts at 7 p.m and will be done within an hour. Ryder encourages students with children to come out and enjoy themselves. If youre a student with a child, its a great show, he said. An intriguiging event on March 8th at 7:30 p.m. is Elvis Aaron Presley, Jr. The real son of Elvis Presley, Ryder thinks audiences will be interested. I think a lot of people will come just for curiositys sake, he said. Livingston Taylor, the brother of musical artist James Taylor, will be on stage March 21 at 7:30 p.m. Ryder, a fan of Livingston, said Livingston does not disappoint. Why James Taylor made it and Livingston didnt is beyond me because Livingston and James sound identical, he said. Photo Courtesy of MCCC Department of Marketing Last up, the Monroe County Community Colleges Prelude Childrens Chorus will be Elvis Presleys son, Elvis Aaron Presley Jr., will be entertaining at the Meyer Theater this March. performing on May 5 at 7 p.m.
Daniels thrills MCCC audience
Eagles cover band gets standing ovation

By Jacob Wood
Agora staff
Jeff Daniels performed music and comedy to a packed Meyer Theater on Jan. 29. Daniels is known for his roles in the HBO series, Newsroom, as well as the movie Dumb and Dumber. He is a Chelsea, MI native and has performed at MCCC several times before. This stop was a part of Michiganwide tour, before moving on to other cities such as New York and Chicago.
On Saturday, Jan. 18, the Eagles cover band Hotel California came to MCCC and played to a sold out Meyer Theater. It was snowy Saturday night as I pulled into the front entrance of MCCC and started to circle the parking lot looking for a spot, something very unusual to be doing on a weekend night at the college. As the crowd quickly rushed into the La-Z boy center, signs were being placed on the front doors of the building that read Tickets for tonights Hotel California sold out. As soon as you entered the building, you had to work your way through the crowd of people all standing around and chatting before finding their seats or walk around the long line in front of the merchandise table. As people slowly filed in and began to try and find their seats, instrumental music played throughout the theater as the instruments sat in the spotlight at the center of the stage. Countless guitars on both the left and right sides of the drum set that was sitting in between a raised keyboard stand and many other instruments. The crowd of people in the hallways started to thin out as the clock was getting closer to 7:30 and there seemed to be not a whole lot of vacant seats in the anticipating crowd. The atmosphere of the room was of good spirits as the lights over the people slowly dimmed down and the voices in the room silenced as the opening guitar rift of the song that the band is named after began
In the early 70s a sound was being formed in California that had never been heard before...
to play through the speakers. The members slowly walked across the stage till they reached their respective spots and the show began. A voice ran through the speakers reminding the crowd this was an Eagles experience and Hotel California is a salute to the band. In the early 70s a sound was being formed in California that had never been heard before said the narrator-like voice as the guitar of Hotel California continued to play. The dark lights suddenly brightened to the reveal the five members of the band. Dicky who plays lead on every guitar besides bass, contributes vocals and plays the harmonica. The two main vocalists, Wade and Steve, also contribute more than their voices as Wade plays the keyboard and acoustic and Steve plays a number of guitars including even a double neck guitar and the banjo. The fourth and fifth members of Hotel California are Scott, who plays main bass and also adds vocals and the drummer of the band, Phil. The band opened with the Eagles classic Take it Easy and went on to play hit after hit as each band member would say whose favorite song was what before they began
playing it. The crowd was right into it from the start applauding and roaring after every solo and cheering continuously in between songs as the band had the Meyer Theater rocking. They played about eight or nine songs and then took a brief fifteen minute intermission as the crowd walked into the lobby or stood up to stretch and talk about the great music that was being showcased to them. The band came back on rocking with fast up beat tunes and then decided to slow it down playing some of the Eagles most famous ballads like Desperado. California then brought pace back to a faster one, closing with the obvious choice of none other than Hotel California. After finishing probably the Eagles most famous song, the crowd stood up and roared for an encore and got what they asked for. As the band walked back to their places someone from the middle of the crowd asked Now how are you going to top that?! The band responded with three more classic Eagle songs, one of which was the upbeat All She Wants to do is Dance. After the last song, the band walked to the front of the stage, said their thanks along with their goodbyes and the lights turned on in the Meyer Theater again. Hotel California brought a great show and Eagles experience to the Meyer Theater and hopefully the crowd representing MCCC will give the band and others a reason to stop by our school more often.
Mixed feelings on New Years resolutions

By Jacob Adams
Agora staff
Many around campus are observing the start of 2014 with the tradition of New Years resolutions. The custom of making a New Years resolution originated in ancient Babylon, whose citizens made promises at the start of each year that they would return borrowed objects and pay their debts. Later, the Romans undertook this tradition by making promises to a god named Janus, who January is named after, and is the patron of beginnings and endings. Opinions now are mixed, but many still observe the tradition as we see it today. Students opinions seem to vary greatly. Some support the tradition, like student John Parker who recently became a father. I usually dont do one, but this year is a fresh start. I want to be the best dad possible, he said. Others share his sentiment like Shaylynn Duvall, who hopes this year is different due to a habit of breaking her resolutions. I want to take chances and get out of my comfort zone, she said. Student Jake Moskal said he always tries to do one. This year mine is to study a lot more because college can be really hard, he said. Zach Dickerson said he tries to observe the tradition. I usually have a new years resolution, but this year I dont, he said. Jesiqua Hutchison, Co-Chair of the Gay Straight Alliance, felt that they are
I think they are a nice tradition that we dont usually follow. Ive never had any success with them.
Joel Fiedler Sociology Professor
important for improving ones self. She promoted the idea within the club. The GSA is doing a group resolution to stop saying, doing, or thinking hateful things towards any group of people. It helps to bring awareness to things you might not realize you thought or did before, she said. On the opposite end of the spectrum are those who oppose the tradition. While
the ages vary, when asked, most said they dont buy in to the concept. David Ferguson, a Writing Fellow for the college, feels that its a waste. Ive never done one. Honestly, people dont usually follow through, he said. Kevin Stewart, also a Writing Fellow, asked why a new year should make a difference.
I choose to live my life with a consistent set of goals, he said. David Daniels, a father of a student at the college, said that it is too much of a hassle. This year Im going to eat more and gain weight so Im not disappointed, he joked. Allee Hill, a student, never observes the
tradition. Ive never had a new years resolution, she said. Faculty members also had opinions. Joel Fiedler, who teaches Sociology classes at the college, said he enjoys the idea but doubts its success rate. I think they are a nice tradition that we dont usually follow. Ive never had any success with them, he said. Terri Garner, an adjunct, doesnt feel the need to make one. When you know life is short, you try to live each day to the fullest, she said. While those who made resolutions will strive to attain their goals in 2014, those who didnt still seem to have a positive outlook on the New Year. Dustin, a student who did not give his last name, sums up the sentiment. I just feel like I can deal a problem when it comes. I dont always have to make a resolution to solve it, he said. Whether or not you observe the tradition now, most of us can agree that bettering yourself is worth attempting.
Actor and rapper releases new album

Jacob Woods
Agora Staff
January 30, 2014
A&E
|6
Actor Donald Glover fully converts to his rapper alias in his sophomore effort, because the internet. Appearing to be slightly depressed on Instagram and even going as far as calling himself a recluse, Donalds mental state and music were starting to become a subject of question. What was this album going to sound like? Was Donald okay? He did not seem very happy with his current endeavor of quitng his role on the television comedy, Community, to become a full time rapper under the moniker, Childish Gambino. Actually it kind of sounded like he resented that decision and making fans weary about anticipating this release for two years since his debut album, Camp. What the fans received in because the internet, was so much more than expected and a sound that Gambino had been slowly mastering since the release of Camp. Hardnosed raps, soft singing, and production by himself that was unique to everything else being released currently. Because the internet begins so abruptly and intense, you would think that this was not Childish Gambino you were listening to but Gucci Mane or T.I. Crawl starts off with a menacing beat and Gambinos wordsmith ways drag you in quickly to this modern classic. Rec league I aint payin to ball brags Gambino yall b-string like a broke guitar and I still put it down like the family dog he continues. The album continues on strong and has its first internet themed song in Worldstar. Another aggressive track where
Photo by: Shawn Anderson Flickr.com
Childish Gambino puts his own personality in his performances.
Gambino raps my girl aint bad she more like evil. Following Worldstar the album switches gears with an instrumental track, Dial Up, which leads into The Worst Guys with the hook having assistance from Gambinos frequent collaborator, Chance the Rapper. Gambino sways the subject matter towards women and his love life with his first more rnb song Shadows and fol-
lows up with the Lloyd sampled love song Telegraph Ave., which may be the best track off of the album. The album picks up the pace like it never slowed down with Sweatpants and California MC Problem contributing background vocals. The more known track 3005 follows and Gambino begins discussing the idea of his friends only being around him for his money.
I use to care what people thought but now I care more, man nobody out here got it figured out so therefore, Ive lost all hope in a happy ending depending on whether or not its worth it, so insecure no ones perfect, we spend it with no shame, we blow it like Coltrane, we in here like Rogain or leave it like Cobain, said Gambino. Emotionally unstable lyrics and passion are what drive this album and this song in particular. Just when you think you have the feel of this album, there is a 360 on antoher instrumental, this time a piano, Playing Around Before the Party Starts. The Party a shorter track that has Gambino singing in the style of the great Prince and then sets the pace for the latter half of this album. Thought I was done but that wasnt the case, said Gambino. Gambino comes back so aggressive and leads into the most emotionally structured song in No Exit, with help from Miguel. Cant sleep, he murmurs. The grimy bass line propels you into his mind, as he begins to tell you how alone he really feels as he stares empty at the walls at night. After another instrumental track and making sure his emotions are still the matter of discussion, Gambino offers his own type of ballad with Flight of the Navigator. The next track Zealots from Stockholm begins with the same pace and then quickly changes to a heavy 808 drum only and Gambinos voiced muffled as he flows with braggadocios punch
lines and has an eerie hook following his verse sung by his friend, Kilo Kish. The album reaches its last transition Gambino sings another love song entitled Urn. Following next, is the song Pink Toes with additional vocals from the angelic voice of Jhene Aiko. The song has Gambino and Aiko in love and trying to smooth their relationship problems out. She on my back about it, C3PO, C3PO, C3PO Gambino complains on the song where everything is Rainbows and Sunshine. The last two songs bring back the ongoing theme of the internet throughout this album with Earth: The Oldest Computer (The Last Night) and Life: The Biggest Troll (Andrew Auernheimer). The first featuring the New York female MC Azealia Banks on the hook where she states I dont want to see an era, see now I just want to live forever. Up until the last song everything has been put together so nicely, that the last song had to conclude this story on a strong note. Still on the beat though, still in the game but he moves with a cheat code says Gambino. Gambino showed that he is much more than just an actor who can rap. He showed he can be just as versatile, or even more than the likes of Drake and Kendrick Lamar, the two undisputed kings of hip-hop. The internet should be a stepping stone for Childish Gambino, who will only continue to get better and for us listeners, it is a timeless album that will never get old.
New Nintendo game brings the adventure

Agora Staff
Jeffery Brown
The Bravely Default demo is a beautiful and complicated view of whats to come in the full game. If you have a Nintendo 3DS and you havent played the Bravely Default demo yet, youre missing out. The demo took about six hours for me to beat and instead of making me play a segment from the full game, you play in a side story that takes place outside the games official story line. The best part is, Im absolutely excited for this game to launch on Feb. 7. You start out in the castle of the ruler of a city, and to sum it all up, he sends you through town to solve the townsfolks problems. Thats far from the best part. The first thing that youll notice is the beautiful and unique art style of the game.
The time is
Beautifully hand drawn and painted backgrounds that are splashed with colors and detail will be the first thing that you notice. Next youll notice that the demo doesnt hold your hand, unlike many of the Nintendo titles in the past few years. If you are a fan of old Final Fantasy games, then youll understand the basics on how to play. The game has a unique twist on the turn-based battle system, giving the characters Brave points. Each action consumes a brave point or you can Default which makes the character guard and gain one extra brave point. You can have up to three brave points and as little as negative five. For each point you have, the more attacks and skills the character can use in a row. It took me a good hour and a half to figure this out, during a fight where enemies continuously called for backup every time one was defeated. Its a risk versus reward system. Defaulting too
many turns leaves your characters vulnerable to enemy attacks. Also, not gaining the advantage of the extra Brave Points can cause a fight to be prolonged. On top of that, the game has a complex job system. Every character can take any job and each can level up and give different abilities, stats and bonuses. The demo only had a small handful of the jobs available in the full game, and they only went up to level four which may or may not be the case in the full game. Also included in the demo is a Meta game in which you recruit villagers via street pass and build a town. In the town you build a weapon shop, armor shop, item shop and accessory shop. Each shop can be upgraded by assigning villagers to the building and for each villager assigned, the time it takes to upgrade goes down. The time for upgrading in the demo takes one minute to twenty hours, depending on amount of villagers.
For each upgrade, the shops will supply better equipment and items needed to beat some of the bosses. There are ten quests in the demo that consist of fighting monsters, obtaining certain items, and conquering the 5 bosses. Lastly, just for playing the demo, you unlock items that youll be able to use in the full game. The more of the demo you complete, the more stuff you get to carry over for the full game. The Bravely Default demo was a breath of fresh air it included just the right amount of challenge and the environments look outstanding. Other developers should look at the formula used in this demo and utilize it. It gives you just the right amount of game, not ruining any of the story and leaves you craving more. Keep an eye out for Bravely Default on the 3DS February 7.
January 30, 2014
Editorial
There will be a larger portion of people who simply do not care. And why should they? Can society really be surprised when a 19-year-old, Grammy nominated, pop superstar, with a net worth approaching $160 million, gets caught drunkenly racing friends in his sports cars? I say no. Not when, according to the United States Attorney General, 70 percent of teens drink underage. Can parents be shocked when their childs favorite singer tells police officers hes been smoking weed and taking prescription medication? Not in todays world. Not when the most popular music in bars and clubs promotes the use of drugs and a reckless lifestyle. Not when abuse of prescription medication is at an all time high. Not when marijuana is legal for sale in two states. Did Justin Bieber make quality and safe decisions last Thursday? No, he did not. Did his actions vary from what most 19-year-olds would have done in that situation? Hardly. Biebers arrest is less of a story about a childhood star gone bad, and more of an
|7
Heartbroken Beliebers had it coming

Justin Bieber is being judged too harshly
By Josh Rains
For The Agora
In October of 2012, Justin Bieber sang, All I need is a beauty and a beat, who can make my life complete. Its now January 2014, and apparently the popular Canadian singer needs a little bit more. Bieber was arrested on charges that include drunk driving and resisting arrest. The pop star made some statements that he had consumed some alcohol, and that he had been smoking marijuana and consumed some prescription medication, Miami Beach Police Chief Raymond Martinez told reporters last Thursday. There are millions of Beliebers out there who are heartbroken over this. Theres sure to be an equal amount of upset parents who forbade their children from listening to Bieber. There will be a loud portion of the public calling for strict punishment and demanding that the state of Florida makes an example out of the young Canadian. There will be a smaller number of people on the internet who debate whether or not he should be deported.
People all over the world are commenting on Justin Biebers smiling mug shot released by Miami police.
example of where society is at today. Most 19-year-olds drink or have drank before. Most know someone who abuses
prescription medication. Most 19-year-olds listen to music that promotes drugs and or alcohol.
Before people prepare the guillotine for Justin Bieber, they should take a look at the world around them.
Think Spring, Think Job Fairs
Job fairs could open doors for the future

lege students are invited to the Collegiate Employ-Net Job Fair on Friday, April 4, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Franciscan Center on the campus of Lourdes University, Sylvania, Ohio. This fair is hosted by the 19 colleges and universities that are members of Collegiate Employ-Net. Typically 50 to 80 employers are in attendance. Several weeks prior to the event those employers and the positions that they will be hiring for will be listed at http://www.collegecentral.com/employ-net/. This is a free event for all job seekers. The third job fair that you should be aware of is the Michigan Collegiate Job Fair (MCJF) on Friday, March 21, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. This is a state-wide job fair. Companies primarily recruit qualified graduates for degreed and entry-level positions. This is a great opportunity for job seekers to identify employers who are actively seeking candidates or to begin networking with companies for future employment. MCJF is open to ANY graduating college senior or recent alumni across the State of Michigan seeking entry level employment opportunities. On average this fair brings together approximately 700 candidates and 120 employers. The Michigan Collegiate Job Fair is held at the Burton Manor Banquet and Conference Center, 27777 Schoolcraft Road, Livonia, Michigan. There is a fee to attend: $10 pre-registration or $15 at the door. For additional details please visit their website at www.mcjf.org. MCJF is sponsored by Eastern Michigan University and supported by the Michigan Career Educator and Employer Alliance (MCEEA). If you plan to attend one or more of these great events, please prepare to succeed. Treat a job fair as you would a job interview, because that is what it is. First and foremost dress for success. Do not show up in jeans and a t-shirt/ sweatshirt. You cannot overdress unless you wear a tuxedo or evening gown. Put your best foot forward. Make sure your hair, nails, facial hair etc. are presentable. Look in a mirror and be honest with yourself Would you hire this person? If there is any doubt, change that outfit, shave that beard, cut that hair, etc. Bring plenty of resumes. Each attending company will be listed on the respective websites with the positions that they will be interviewing for. Use this to your advantage and tailor your resume to the company(ies) and positions that you are interested in. Bring several generic resumes in case you come across a position that you were unaware of. Practice interviewing with a friend or family member. We have sample interview questions available in our office to assist you with this. Get plenty of rest the night before. Most importantly, the day of the event try visiting several employers that you have little or no interest in working for before you approach your top choices. This will help you settle your nerves and let you get a feel for how the process works. I compare this to stretching before you exercise. You wouldnt go out and run 5 miles without warming up first, then why would you interview for a life changing job without doing the same? If you have questions or would like to learn more about resume preparation, interviewing skills or how to approach a job fair, plan on attending one of the FREE Resume Workshops that are coming up
There are several excellent opportunities this spring to attend job fairs, both on campus and regionally. The premier event on campus is the Career & Opportunity Expo that will be held on Friday, April 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Welch Health & Education Building. This is the fourth year for the event Barry Kinsey, and it is expected to Director Workforce Development draw 70 plus employers to campus. For up-to-date information on the Expo and its employers, visit the website two weeks prior to the event at http://www. monroeccc.edu/careerexpo/. This is a free event for all job seekers. In addition to the Career & Opportunity Expo, Monroe County Community Col-
on campus. There is no charge, but registration is required. To register, please call (734) 384-4127. The dates and times are as follows: Wednesday, Jan. 29, 9:30 to 11 a.m., Room Z-257 of the La-Z-Boy Center. Tuesday, Feb. 11, 9:30 to 11 a.m., Room Z-257 of the La-Z-Boy Center. Wednesday, Feb. 12, 5:30 to 7 p.m., Room Z-257 of the La-Z-Boy Center. Tuesday, Feb. 25, 5:30 to 7 p.m., Room Z-257 of the La-Z-Boy Center. Wednesday, Feb. 26, 9:30 to 11 a.m., Room Z-257 of the La-Z-Boy Center. Tuesday, March 25, 9:30 to 11 a.m., Room Z-257 of the La-Z-Boy Center. Wednesday, March 26, 5:30 to 7 p.m., Room Z-257 of the La-Z-Boy Center. To learn more about the Office of Workforce Development, please visit our website at http://www.collegecentral. com/monroeccc/. You can also like us on Facebook at Monroe County Community College Employment Assistance/Workforce Development or follow us on Twitter @ MCCC Employment.
Math seems to be one of the favorite topics around the MCCC campus. Students complain about their math class, their math teacher, why they had to buy a computer, why there are so many tests Im bad at math is one of the most common phrases heard in MCCCs hallways. Really? Maybe you just told yourself you were bad at math that day in grade school, when you didnt understand something Dan Shaw the teacher said and Agora Advisor the students around you seemed to get it. Maybe you began using that as an excuse so you didnt have to study as hard, or do that troublesome homework. After all, Im bad at math, anyway. I was inspired recently by a column written by a top journalist/web programmer,
Math, its not about being good or bad

who admitted that he used the Im bad at math excuse all the way through high school and college. Matt Waite is now a professor of journalism at the University of Nebraska, but recently he was the principal developer of the Pulitzer Prize-winning website, PolitiFact. Hes a famous web programmer, so naturally he must be good at math. Well, maybe now. But he barely passed high school algebra, then chose a college journalism program that didnt require him to take a math class. It wasnt until he was out in the real world that he realized he needed the equivalent of college calculus. At 37, he found himself back in college, taking remedial algebra (the equivalent of our Math 090), in a classroom full of 18-year-olds. A funny thing happened. He studied, did the homework, and got an A+. He wasnt bath at math. He had just convinced himself of that, which gave him an excuse to skip the homework. He enrolled in college algebra another A+. What was he doing differently than in high school? He studied and did the homework. Math, he learned, isnt something youre good at. Its something you work at to learn. Do the homework, ask questions when you dont understand. Study some more. Matt Waite discovered he was actually good at math after a lot of hard work. This story touched a chord with me personally. I was bad at math, too. Okay, not really bad, but not nearly as good as my older brother and sister. So I stayed as far away from math as I could. I hated teachers in my high school comparing me to my siblings. They looked at me with that puzzled expression, wondering how the math gene skipped me. It wasnt until I was working as a journalist that I began to regret taking only the bare minimum of math courses necessary to graduate.
Guess what math is all around you in the real world. You cant cover sports or business or politics without running into algebra, geometry and sometimes calculus. In his column, Waite pointed out that the best jobs in journalism are going to people who know math that is, they understand things like data analysis and programming. Truth is, bad at math was never a good thing in journalism, even when things like data and analytics werent a part of the job, Waite said. Covering a city budget? Its shameful how many newsroom creatures cant calculate percent change. Covering sports? Its embarrassing how many sports writers dismiss the gigantic leaps forward in data analysis in all sports as nerd stuff. Now, when I hear journalism students or any students, for that matter complain about math, I nod with understanding. I feel their pain. I was there, too. Then I tell them to forget the bad at math excuse and get busy studying.
Trust in common sense

By Shelby Spencer
Agora Staff
Valentines dont have to break the bank

Welcome back for the 2014 Winter semester. I hope everyone is doing alright in their classes . With the mass confusion of classes starting and New Years resolutions being broken or maintained, it is hard to forget that Valentines Day is coming closer. And soon, it will be time to begin the frenzy of finding your loved one the perfect gift. Gifts like roses, candies, and precious jewelry will be tossed in your direction, giving you a slight panic attack. Ray Bell Agora Staff Dont worry. There are things you can do for your loved one that dont have to break the bank this year. For starters, a simple box of chocolates will be a good opening to your night of romance. You dont want to spend more than $10-15 for a box of chocolates, but at the same time, you dont want to be really cheap and get them a candy bar from the check-out lane of Wal-Mart. A simple dinner would be a lovely way to continue the night of romance. Many of you would want to take your loved one to a restaurant, fancy or casual. And that would be althe statements come around. And you dont want to be too cheap and take your loved one to a fast food place like McDonalds or Wendys. This will pretty much make your night a living Hell. And lastly, when the dinner and chocolate euphoria has died down, many people will retire back to their home for a quiet, relaxing end. Some will retire to a hotel room for a romantic getaway from their home life. If you take the hotel route, make sure you do your research ahead of time. You can use the Internet to find great deals for your night away from the world. Sites like Hotels.com or Expedia offer a great selection of deals that will not tighten your wallet. Whatever you do with your loved one on this Valentines Day, I hope you will takes these tips into consideration when finalizing your plans. If all else fails, a simple bouquet of roses does the trick, and will show them how much you care. -Stay Lovely, Yall!
right. The main thing you want to remember is to keep things in your price range. Do not go over the top with the spending as you might regret it when
TheMonroe County Road Commission recently devised a plan to start using an emergency snow labeling system similar to Ohios. Roadways will be put into categories based on whether or not the county board believes the roads are safe enough to drive on. Come on! Do we really need yet another government involvement in our lives telling us if we are ALLOWED to drive or not? Is it all that terrible to trust peoples common sense? Most people in Monroe County have dealt with our crazy winter weather their whole lives. Why start mandating drivers to stay off the roads now? If someone wants to take their car that is one foot off the ground and try to plow through a 3-foot snow drift and get stuck, so be it. Thats their fault. On the same note, if someone wants to drive 75 mph on ice and put themselves in a ditch, Im sure the cost of the tow truck will teach them a lesson. Advising people of dangerous road conditions is one thing, but ordering people off the roads because someone else decided it was too dangerous is ridiculous. I do understand that people do get seriously injured driving with bad road conditions, and Im not saying that its ok to drive when its hazardous. I just disagree with not being able to make that judgment call for myself.
Sports The Lions have a new leader

January 30, 2013
|8
Jim Caldwell takes over as Detroits head coach
Ray Bell
Agora Staff
The Detroit Lions finalized their head coaching search, and they believe it ends with Jim Caldwell. The Detroit Lions search for a new head coach is over. It was announced that Caldwell, former offensive coordinator of the Baltimore Ravens. was hired on Jan. 14. The time is now, Caldwell said in his introductory press conference on Jan. 15. The Lions were hoping to have Ken Whisenhunt, who was hired by the Tennessee Titans earlier this month. But Lions General Manager Martin Mayhew and team president Tom Lewand, said they are happy with Caldwell and hope for the best with him. As I said up there, anybody who thinks that were settling for Jim Caldwell doesnt know Jim Caldwell, Lewand said to the me-
dia at the press conference. The Lions are hoping that Caldwell will turn around the club as well as refine quarterback Matthew Stafford and shape him to become an elite QB. Stafford, according to press statements earlier this year, said he was open to someone coming in to teach him to be better. We just kind of talked about some of the things that I had seen on film and things of that nature throughout the years; we just kind of talked back and forth, Caldwell said. Although there hasnt been much to celebrate with this hiring, MCCC students are showing their support for Caldwell and what he will do for the Lions. I think he will be good for the Lions, Mark Mental, an MCCC student, said. He seems to be a disciplined coach, and thats what they need. They have the talent, but lack the discipline. Caldwell, who coached for the Indianapolis Colts for three years, has a 26-22 record as an NFL head coach, with a Super Bowl appear-
I think there is a reason why Im here. I think without question, that is to win a championship,
Jim Caldwell
ance under his belt. The Lions are hoping that Caldwell will bring the Motor City an NFL championship. I think there is a reason why Im here. I think without question, that is to win a championship, said Caldwell. Caldwell will replace Jim Schwartz, who was fired after a disappointing season without another playoff appearance. Schwartz finished his career with a 29-51 record, which includes a playoff loss, and is a candidate for a head coach position with the Cleveland Browns.
Photo courtesty of baltimoregridironreport.com
The Detroit Lions made a final decision to have Jim Caldwell as their new head coach.
Michigan Wolverines snatch the spotlight from MSU

Jake Woods
Agora Staff
Michigan forward Glenn Robinson III has been one of the leaders of the Wolverines this year.
On Saturday, January 25th, the Michigan State Spartans hosted their instate rival, the Michigan Wolverines, for the first of two meetings this year. Coming in to Saturdays game, the No. 3 ranked Spartans had only lost one game and the No. 21 ranked Wolverines had just beaten two top ten teams in Wisconsin and Iowa in the past week. Michigan was looking to make that three wins against three top ten teams, which had not been done since the late 80s. Both teams played without key pieces, due to injuries. Michigan State went without its two big men, Adreian Payne and Branden Dawson, and Michigan was without its sophomore center, Mitch McGary, who opted for season-ending back surgery late last year. The Wolverines started the game just like they had finished their previous two, with confidence and swagger, hitting their three-point and mid-range shots, which carry the team most of the time. Michigan ran out to a 10-2 start, quickly quieting the crowd right out of the gate. The Spartans responded with Gary Harris taking command of the game, in which he scored a career high 27 points. The first half consisted of fast-paced Big Ten basketball, as both teams were fighting to be the lone undefeated team remaining in the conference. Harris and the Spartans got the crowd back into the game which can be a big factor when playing in the Breslin Center, which may be one of the hardest places to play in the country by hitting big 3 point shots. At halftime, the Spartans led the Wolverines by a score of 36 to 30 and seemed to have full control of the game.
The Wolverines started the game just like they had finished their previous two with confidence and swagger, hitting their three-point and midrange shots, which carry the team most of the time. Michigan ran out to a 10-2 start, quickly quieting the crowd right out of the gate.
Big performances by sophomore guard Nik Stauskus and freshman point guard Derrick Walton, who both scored 19 points, led the rest of the way for Michigan. With under ten minutes to play, Michigan guard Caris Levert inbounded the ball, stepped behind the three-line to catch a pass and drain an open look to tie the game at 53. With under four minutes to play and the game tied at 60 all, Stauskus buried an open three that started an 8-0 run for the Wolverines that eventually led to their victory. Freshman Spartan guard Alvin Ellis III scored 12 points in an opportunity to play due to the injuries. The final score was 80-75 and Michigan had beaten its third top ten ranked team in a week and won in a hostile environment to take sole lead of the Big Ten. The Spartans and Wolverines are set to play each other one more time this season on Feb. 23, this time at Crisler Arena in Ann Arbor.

Did you know
a n e i S
Black history month event photos page 3
Local musical talent strives for success

By Shelby Spencer
Agora Staff
February 20, 2014 Vol. 59, Issue 2
Monroes nearly dead music scene hasnt stopped locals from getting out there. Monroe was shocked when local Julian Miller, graduate of Monroe High School, made the decision to leave American Idol. I worked hard and it meant a lot to me, but in the middle of it all, a better opportunity came into my life. An opportunity for artists, Miller said. Miller can be seen as a glimmer of hope for other local talents who are trying to make it big. Do what you want to do, he said. Thats how I live my life. That is exactly how MCCC student Mariana Chaves lives her life as well. She plays the synthesizer and sings lead vocals in a band with her brother, Nino Chaves. They call themselves, The Old Adage. Mariana says the band was created by accident. She had always loved singing and when her brother learned to play the guitar, they began to write music
The way we look at it is if you want anything bad enough and are willing to work for it, theres no way you wont get there.
Mariana Chaves The Old Adage
together. They started out as opening acts for Jack & the Bear and The Unknown Legends at what use to be Cafe Classics downtown. Then they started to book their own shows, and have built a recording studio in Marianas basement, where they will soon be recording their first EP. Their studio is also going to be available for other local musicians. The Old Adages electronic rock was not easy to get publicity for in Monroe.
We do what we can in Monroe, but we are more into the Toledo scene, Mariana said. Mariana has big dreams for the band and is excited to announce its first tour after the EP is complete. The way we look at it is if you want anything bad enough and are willing to work for it, theres no way you wont get there. Were giving it all we can and we are slowly but surely getting where we want to be, she said. Someone who is also getting there is classic rock and blues enthusiast Daniel Wilson. He is a student at MCCC and plans to transfer to Eastern Michigan University to pursue a career in music therapy. When people think of music as a career, usually its band teacher or professional musician, but there are so many other professional opportunities and job opportunities out there, he said. Daniel plays many instruments, but specializes on guitar, which he has played for eight years.
Continued on page 5
Mariana Chaves,middle, of The Old Adag performed in the Grade A cafeteria on campus, last semester.
Panel planned to handle millage

By Melanie Jacobs-Davis
Agora Staff
MCCC observes Black History
A committee will be formed in the next two-three weeks to work on details of a tax millage proposal for MCCC, college President Kojo Quartey said last week. The college Board of Trustees told Quartey to begin forming a committee at its Jan. 27 board meeting. Quartey said MCCC has plans to improve enrollment and retention numbers, but that more money is needed. Board members discussed whether a tax millage request should be put on the August or November ballot. They decided to form a committee to work out the details, and some board members indicated a preference for hiring a consultant to help. At this point, there is no committee, Quartey said. Within two to three weeks we should have one. He said there has been a lot of behind-the-scenes work going on to begin planning for a tax millage request. We met as a group of VPs, directors and deans. All councils, including faculty, were invited to the meeting, he said. Subsequent to that, we had a meeting of VPs and directors to talk with a consultant by phone; next is to meet with the board and determine the next steps. Quartey said he anticipates they will have made a decision on who will be on the committee within two to three weeks. He said its likely a proposed tax millage increase will be on either the August or November ballots. The college has been cutting budgets for several years, as property values have dipped and state revenue has been mostly flat. The last local property tax increase was 32 years ago. To balance the budget, the college has raised tuition several times in the last few years. Quartey began talking about the need for more local tax revenue to maintain the colleges programs shortly after he arrived last summer. The Agora first reported the tax discussions in December.
Photo by Lauren Robinson
Left to right are role models Angela Blunt, followed by Stephanie Blunt, Spencer Blunt ,Brenda Mattice, Selma Renkins and Manuel Hoskins.
Role models discuss value of mentoring

By Mariah Tevepaugh
Agora Staff
You cannot teach respect, you have to learn that from others, from your family community, your church community.
Angela Blunt Pastor, Christ Love Fellowship Church
Eight black role models from Monroe spoke about the importance of mentors, education, respect and how to eliminate racism for the younger generations. On Feb. 17 Monroe Community Diversity Committee hosted a local black role model discussion panel in honor of Black History month. Were trying to celebrate history and heritage month each month, whatever month that is designated to a group, Human Resource Director Molly McCutchan said. February is black history month, November is Native American month and March is womens history month. The role models consisted of educators, a pastor, Fire chief, banker, a mechanical trader and more, all of which were hand -picked by Kojo Quartey. Each role model had different point of view on the various topics discussed but most agreed on a couple of things like the importance of education and having a
mentor. Education doesnt just come from a book, Said Vuncia Council. Its about exposing yourself to people and knowledge. Assistant Vice President for human resources at MB&T, Spencer Blunt, goes as far to say that its just as important to have connections as it is to have an education. It has less to do with skin color and more to do with networks, he said. However, educator Selma Renkins thinks that its important for a mentor to be the same color. I still believe we havent come to it yet that anyone can advise my grandkids, he said. We still got a long ways to go. Fire Chief Manuel Hoskins agreed that depending on the situation, sometimes a
mentor of the same color is essential. There has been many times Ive left out of meetings and Ive been furious and it takes for me to call another African American chief to tell me to calm down, Hoskins said. Thats important because theyre going to understand how I feel. It was agreed that racism is still an issue today and there are a few different ways to deal with it. Many stated that one should confront the person who is acting racist and, in a nonconfrontational way, demand respect. Make sure you dont ignore the fact that racism is there, Said Stephanie Blunt, a third-grade teacher at Custer. They also agreed that community members need to take their time with each child and try to instill respect.
You cannot teach respect, you have to learn that from others, from your family community, your church community, said Pastor Angela Blunt. There will be a couple more events to finish the celebration of Black history month. Another panel discussion on Black History and the American Dream and a presentation on Black History from Africa to the Americas will be held at MCCCs main campus. This event, and not only this event, but this is one that certainly gives some credence to blacks in this nation and in this community who are making it and doing well, Quartey said. And that can help others to do even better as we try to rise as a community and as a nation.
Campus News......................2,3 Features.................................4 A&E......................................5,6 Editorial...................................7 Sports......................................8
Inside:
Bookstore Hours:
www.mcccagora.com
Library Hours:
LAL/Writing Center:
February 20 , 2014
Campus News
|2
Exchange students embrace culture

Foreign students get used to life in America
By Shelby Spencer
Agora Staff
MCCC is hosting foreign exchange students from Belgium and South Korea this semester. Sun Ah Roh and Simon Natowitz both arrived in Monroe in early January. Sun was inspired by her sister, who studied abroad before her. Though she misses her family in Korea, she says that she really appreciates her host family and has fun shopping with them on the weekends. Sun is taking computers, mass media, theater, English and painting, and said that this college is very big compared to hers back home. She is looking forward to becoming better at speaking and understanding English. Her most exciting experience here so far has been going to the Detroit Auto Show, where she said she has never seen so many cars. I was excited to see Korean companies like Kia and Hyundai, Sun said. Sun thinks that people in the U.S. are very nice. I was surprised when someone held the door open, she said. Though Sun likes the people in Monroe, she is displeased with the weather. She said that it is too cold and snowy
Agora photo
Exchange students Simon Natowitz and Sun Ah Roh were shown Mpact cable studios as part of a class.
for her to go outside. I liked the snow before I came here. Now I do not like the snow, she said. It is not Natowitzs first time in the
U.S.; he traveled through America and Europe in the summer of 2012. He spent his last semester of college in Germany.
I am used to being around new people, places, and languages, Natowitz said. His native language is French, but he is also fluent in English, German, and Span-
ish. Natowitzs favorite thing about being in America is speaking English. He recalls being in English class in Belgium, where his peers were frustrated with the rules and exceptions of the English language. But Natowitz fell in love with it. With English, you cannot just learn it, you have to speak it, and you have to feel it, he said. Though most Americans may look at MCCC as being a fairly small campus, Natowitz says that college here is much larger than back home. The campus is bigger and there are more people, but the degrees of study are the same. Natowitz also is not enjoying the extreme winter; in Belgium the coldest temperatures are around 10 degrees. He says that he has to wear more layers than most people on campus, and he is getting blisters on the backs of his hands because he isnt used to the cold. Natowitz likes the small town because it is easier to meet people. To really get to know America, I think you have to travel everywhere, he said. When Natowitz returns home, he will miss the Mexican-style food he has been enjoying in the U.S. He says that people here are more concerned about the little things in life, and that in Belgium people are much more laid back. Natowitz has traveled to a lot of places and has met a lot of people. When we are together we are the same, he said.
Campus literary magazine to publish in spring

Julia Wells
Agora Staff
Images, MCCCs literary arts magazine, is preparing for this years issue. The magazine features art work and creative writing samples from both staff and students. Professor John Holladay first started the magazine for the English department to submit prose, poetry, songs, short stories and other creative writing. Over the years, much of the written work has come from MCCCs 261 Creative Writing course, but we have also published the efforts of many other students, staff, and faculty members, Holladay said. Holladay also said publishing depends on the number and quality of submissions they receive. Student Jarrod Saum, who is majoring in Creative Writing, took the opportunity to submit an original poem. Even a low-level publication in a campus journal is something to be proud of. It will be a stepping stone to getting to larger projects, he said. Early editions of the literary magazine began in the 1970s under the name, The River Raisin Review. The project did not come to full fruition until 1982, when Dean Robert Kollin requested that the magazine become an annual publication. Since 1983, Images has been consistently published, skipping a few years between 2008 and 2013. Over the years, other faculty members including Terry Telfer and Penny Dorcey-Naber have been involved. Art professor Ted Vassar became involved when the magazine began to include art work, such as drawings, works of
photography and illustrations. Since Vassar joined in the 1970s, he has seen the publishing process change due to advancements in technology. Back then, you had to take 33 millimeter slides and then you had to develop those into prints and it was just a long, drawnout process, Vassar said. Due to funding, the magazine can only be physically published in black and white. But on the MCCC website, PDFs of the full magazine can be viewed in color. Now that we have e-magazine, we can get more examples of work were starting to add more artwork, Vassar said. The magazine has featured pieces from four students who received significant scholarships to art institutions. As far as determining which submissions make it into the magazine, Vassar said that it all comes down to technique. Many submissions come from student projects in the Art Fundamentals class. How well they did the assignment and the presentation; how it looks, Vassar said. We dont have art majors and such, maybe two or three. We get people from graphic arts and CIS programs. Editors hope to have this issue out by April and plan on continuing the magazine, as long as there is interest. When I leave, hopefully, the next person who comes in will carry it on, Vassar said. I think its a good publication; it kind of shows off the art department. When the issue is published, it will be available for students to purchase in the bookstore for 50 cents. Photo by Julia Wells Readers can also view the entire issue of Images, in color at http://www.monroeccc.edu/humaniti/humsocprog.htm MCCCs first literary magazine, left, was published in 1970 and has evolved into Images.
MCCC presidents talk show takes off

By Stephen Pipis
Agora Staff
College President Kojo Quartey created the television show Education Matters to help serve the community. We are a community college. The difference between a community college and any other kind of institution is that a community college first and foremost is concerned about serving its community, he said. Quartey hopes that bringing educational programming to the public will bring more knowledge and spread the word of education throughout the community. He also hopes that this will be a chance to help improve student life on campus, and ensure student success. According to Quartey, student success and serving the community are the two most important things that the college does. Since Quartey was hired, about six months ago, he has tried to think of innovative ways to help the college and be involved in the community. About a year ago, he came up with the idea for his education box. Inside of the box is a key, a road map, and a medicine bottle. Each are symbolic of the importance of education. The key represents success, the road map represents how to get to prosperity, and the medicine bottle represents the cure for poverty. Quartey wanted to spread this
Agora photo
Kojo Quartey interviews student government members on Education Matters.
message throughout the community. He approached Journalism professor Dan Shaw and Joe Verkennes, the director of marketing at the college, with the idea of a television show. According to Verkennes, he thought it was a great idea, but was a little nervous at such a big undertaking. Verkennes set up a meeting with Monroe Public Access Cable Television and brought along the colleges design staff. The idea was approved and the staff of the show underwent four to five weeks of equipment and production training. Verkennes hired a local produc-
We are a community college. The difference between a community college and any other kind of institution is that a community college first and foremost is concerned about serving its community.
Kojo Quartey MCCC president and host of Education Matters
tion company, TK Production, to handle the shows post-production. Our goal is to make it look visually, and content wise, to be the best show on MPACT, he said. Quartey also came up with the title of the show to serve as a double entrendre about how education is important, and to be able to discuss issues regarding the quality of the institution.
He starts every show with a monologue that helps explain MCCCs role in the community. According to Quartey, the reaction to the show has been positive on campus as well as in the community. Quartey said the first episode was the most streamed public access show in November from MPACTs website.. Joanna Sabo, a political science professor at MCCC, is one of the most recent guests on the show. I think its amazing, she said. She hopes more faculty members will go on the show. Its a great chance for faculty to highlight their area, she said. Verkennes said the show will focus on programs unique to MCCC, as well as feature interviews with students, faculty and staff members. Youre getting an in-depth look at our college, he said. Quartey also hopes to get more student interviews on the show. He sees this as an opportunity to improve student life on campus, as well as increase student success. He also wants to feature middle college and dual-enrolled students on the program. Quartey said that he has not received any negative comments about the show, and that the last taping of the show was in the top three MPACT shows in the overall audience. Ellen, here I come, he said.

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 youd like to see in The Agora - its your newspaper. E-mail submissions: agora@monroeccc.edu .
Editor: Adviser: Julia Wells Dan Shaw Staff

Jacob Adams Reggie Allen Jeffrey Brown Melanie Jacobs-Davis Katie Mullins Stephen Pipis Lauren Robinson Shelby Spencer Mariah Tevepaugh Darryl White Jacob Woods
February 20, 2014
Quartey debunks myths about Africa

Jeffrey Brown
Agora staff
Honoring black History

Other Black History Month Events include: February 20 at 5:30Black History from Africa to the Americas A building Room 173. February 24 from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Lawanda Lee Oseler will be performing in the MCCC dining room for students and faculty.
Campus News
|3
At the Demystifying Africa event on campus, President Kojo Quartey spoke about misconceptions of Africa. The event was a part of The Black History Month event series at MCCC. When you think of Africa, how many people think of this? Quartey asked. The picture in question featured a cityscape of Johannesburg, South Africa. Only one person raised their hand. Quartey was born in Ghana and lived there until he was ten years old, when he and his family moved to Washington D.C. In the presentation he listed ten common misconceptions about Africa. Bullet points from the presentation included the myths about Africas economic status, cannibalism, hungry children, and Muslim religion in Africa. I was born in Ghana and 90 percent of people are Christians, Quartey said. Contrary to popular belief, Africa has many modernized cities and wild animals are not roaming the streets.
Quartey attributed problems of poverty and hunger in some countries to poor leadership and lack of education and not due to lack of wealth or food, as is commonly believed. How do you kill poverty? With education. Quartey said. Quartey explained that we only see the bad things about Africa in the media and that they leave out a lot of truths. Not everything that we read in the media is necessarily true. There are lot of misconceptions and untruths about Africa; I wanted to make sure we understand the truth.
Photo taken by Mariah Tevepaugh
Pointing to Somalia, MCCC President Kojo Quartey gave a brief description and then proceeded on to another country.
Photo taken by Lauren Robinson
Role models weigh in with their thoughts at the discussion panel Monday night on topics ranging from education to mentors and racism.
Quartey held the son of a panel member for the event.
Detroit artist charms students and faculty

Mariah Tevepaugh
Agora staff
Singer/songwriter Britney Stoney entertains at a noon concert in the cafeteria.
In honor of Black History Month, a local Detroit singer, songwriter, and guitarist entertained students during their lunch hour. Britney Stoney played for a couple of hours on Thursday, Feb. 13 for students and faculty in the MCCC cafeteria. She sang several of her own originals along with some popular tunes as well. According to Stoney, her favorite song to perform is her original, Rebels. She was given an opportunity to record this song for the Acoustic Guitar Project of Detroit. The project gave her a hand-made guitar and a recorder and told her that once she recorded her song,she was supposed to sign the guitar and pass it along to the next artist that was a part of the project. Stoney is also getting her voice heard by singing at festivals in downtown Detroit. She started playing the guitar and singing three years ago and has continued on by making appearances at festivals in downtown Detroit. It went kind of fast, I was living in a loft downtown with some other artists, Stoney said. We werent a group, more of a situation. According to Stoney, she sings not only because
I just want to heal through music.

Britney Stoney Detroit singer/songwriter/guitarist
she loves it, but also because she wants others to feel inspired by her music. I just want to heal through music, She said. Ambassador club president Chris Holmes, picked Britney Stoney out of various other artists to play for MCCC during lunch hour for Black History Month. One of the goals for Student Government is to provide different events for the students and noon time concerts are a great way to introduce students to different types of music, Student Government Advisor, Tom Ryder, said in an email. Due to the turn out and the applause after each song, it seems like most students are enjoying the afternoon entertainment. As a guitar player, it takes a lot of talent to sing and play at the same time, Freshman Nolan Gonyea said. It was a more entertaining lunch than normal.
Students listen to Stoneys original and popular songs during their lunch.
Fire Chief Manuel Hoskins explains the importance of having a mentor.
Feburary 20 2014
Students shouldnt stress over taxes

Ray Bell
Agora staff
Features
|4
Students are starting to prepare for looming Tax Day. Many MCCC students are now receiving their own W-2 forms to start filing for the 2013 tax year. Some students using financial aid are getting the 1098-T forms, which they need to file. Whatever forms they are getting, the Internal Revenue Service is advising that they file like everyone else, as soon as possible. Students who are not used to the whole income tax process sometimes feel overwhelmed by it all, but tax experts say the key is to not panic. Carlotta Congioloso, a local office manager and tax expert for H&R Block, says filing your taxes is nothing to stress over. If you file with a tax expert, it will give you the peace of mind knowing you have filed your taxes properly, Congioloso said, while making sure you get the best return possible on your refund. Allan Perchard, an MCCC student, says the hardest part about filing his tax return this year was just knowing what to file. It was hard for me, especially when I was trying to decide what to claim and what not to, he said. Starting to file your tax return early is the best thing for anyone, students included, according to an interview done by Bankrate.com with Mark Oleson, director of the Financial Counseling Clinic at Iowa State University. The sooner you start, the better off youll be, Oleson advises. If you have a tight spring schedule and cant talk to someone for three weeks, saying that on Feb. 1 is a lot different than saying that in April. Congioloso agrees with Oleson. I would say the earlier you file your taxes, the more you will get in your refund, she said. Students who are getting financial aid from MCCC will need to file a Form 1098-T. This form is used for students who want to claim their grants and scholarships on their tax return.
According to the tax site TurboTax, the IRS treats a Pell grant as a scholarship, which means it is possible that youll have to report the grant money on your tax return and maybe even pay income tax on the money. One qualification is that you must be enrolled in a program as a degree candidate, or you must be pursuing a training program that prepares you for specific types of employment.
The other qualification is that you must use the Pell grant only to pay for qualified education expenses. These expenses include tuition and fee payments, along with required books, supplies and equipment for your courses. Students can sometimes get a bit more cash on their tax refund by qualifying for an educational tax credit. There are three major ones to choose from, but students get to select only one per student.
The Hope Scholarship Credit gives students a tax credit up to 100 percent of their first $1,000 in tuition and fees, according to Bankrate.com, and up to 50 percent for the second $1,000. The maximum credit is $1,500 and it applies to the first two years of college only. The Lifetime Learning Credit gives students credit equal to 20 percent of their tuition and certain related expenses up to $10,000. The credit maximum is $2,000. The higher education expenses deduction could be as much as $4,000 for families that meet the IRS earning guidelines. If students make too much, theyll get a reduced deduction. The downside to this is that these deductions usually give you less bang for your buck than credits. Students will get to subtract a credit amount from the actual tax they owe, whereas a deduction reduces the income they have to pay taxes on. For those who are living with their family, your parents can claim you as a dependent and are eligible to claim these credits, if they are paying your tuition. Students who are paying out of their own pockets for their college education can file individually and receive the credits. Another thing to consider for students when filing for taxes is your location. Students with a part-time job while at school in a different state, in addition to a job in their home state, are responsible for filing taxes separately in both states. If you are a student who is a resident of Ohio or Indiana and you live in Monroe to attend MCCC, you will have to claim your income on your state income tax return. But you are going to get a tax credit on that states return for taxes you pay in Michigan. It is essential for students to research and thoroughly understand the tax rules where they live, as state rules can vary drastically, according to Lindsey Buchholz, lead analyst at the Tax Institute at H&R Block. Once prepared for the taxing work ahead, many wonder where should I file. Many tax experts say to go to a professional tax advisor/expert to make sure everything is done right. But with the rise of technology today, some experts
The sooner you start, the better off youll be. If you have a tight spring schedule and cant talk to someone for three weeks, saying that on Feb. 1 is a lot different than saying that in April.
Mark Oleson Tax expert
and websites offer to file your taxes electronically. H&R Block and TurboTax are among the top tax websites people have used to file their federal and state taxes. Using TurboTax was easy for me, Perchard said, because they were able to assist me plugging in the amounts I needed for my return. Once you are finished, many experts say to see about having a second tax expert take a look at your returns, for they may find something the original tax preparer may have missed. H&R Block has a free second-look program going on through April 15 for this years tax return, as well as your previous returns from 2009 to last year. Congioloso said the H&R Block Premium office in Monroe will help anyone with filing or giving people a second look. For anyone wanting these services, the Monroe office is located at 820 South Monroe Street. If you wish to call and make an appointment with one of their experts, their number is 734-242-6422. The important thing for students to remember is that taxes are not meant to be stressful. They are quite easy to do when you prepare for your returns properly and stay calm throughout the tax-filing process. When you take your time, prepare properly, file early and be calm through the whole process, you will have less stress on your life.
Rutgers University offers class on Beyonce, feminism, politics

Jake Woods
Agora Staff
Kevin Allred, a gender studies professor at Rutgers University, will be teaching a new course titled, Politicizing Beyonc. At the end of last year, superstar singer Beyonc released her fifth self-titled studio album, without any promotion, and began discussions nationwide with her music involving issues ranging from politics to feminism. There are many opinions on her impact on these issues, and it would not be a better time to analyze everything Beyonce is doing and what she stands for currently. Students at Rutgers University in New Jersey get the privilege of diving into this steaming topic. Kevin Allred, a professor of women and gender studies, will be teaching the course, Politicizing Beyonc, which will cover everything from race to politics to feminism. Basically, the class is centered on a history of black feminist writers and thinkers in the United States, as well as an interrogation of the politics of race, gender, class, and sexuality in the U.S., Allred said. Allred will be using Beyonc as a gateway to approach students in a different way to engage them in the topics of the class and connect to them in ways they are more familiar and comfortable with. Im a big Beyonc fan myself, and have always been interested in analyzing pop culture for what it can tell us about the society we live in, Allred said as he discussed his reasoning for starting the course. I also came across an article by Daphne Brooks arguing that Beyoncs BDay album should be seen as a political statement in response to Hurricane Katrina. I wanted to broaden that to include all her music and the possible ways it was all political, he said. Beyonc is a powerful figure, not just in music or pop culture but in every other way possible. She has close ties with the president and is respected by the majority of people across the globe. She currently has seventeen Grammys, with over forty nominations, and will probably be accepting more awards next winter for her latest release. When asked what material of Beyoncs Allred will be using in the course, he said the main focus will be everything from her second release on. I focus on everything Beyonc has done after BDay Allred said,as well as other performances, documentaries.I use a lot of writing and readings by black feminists that I pair with the music.
Feminism has been a prominent subject in Beyonces music and never more prominent than her surprise Beyonce release. Some people, even some feminists, argue that Beyoncs music does not support the feminist movement or does not portray the ideas of feminism correctly. Whether or not students think Beyonc is a feminist does come up and we discuss both sides of the argument, Allred said. Its not the main part of the course. The real discussions are over what messages we can pick out of her music about race, gender, class, sexuality and what those messages say about us as a society. Allred said he does believe Beyonce` is a feminist and portrays it through her lyrics, her all-woman band and mainly her new album. Beyoncs impact on current issues in the United States could be immense, based on how young poeple react to the things she says and does. Everything from gender, race and all types of political debates seem to be brought up around her new release. Kevin Allred thinks she has the ability to change the way people look at these issues. I think the new album has a lot of things to say about political debates, especially around race and gender, Allred said. I think shes currently redefining feminism and changing peoples opinions through her ability to self-define exactly what is empowering for her. All of these topics should be of concern to college students as many of these debates may shape the future of this country. I want to introduce them to a whole history of black feminist writing and thinking in the U.S. as well as get them to be mindful of the pop culture they are consuming on a daily basis, Allred said. When asked if they would be interested in the Politcizing Beyonce class, students at MCCC seemed to be all for it. It would be interesting to take a class on Beyonce because it is a topic that is out of ordinary and appeals to some of my interests, said Nick Headon. Having pop-culture related classes could be a better way to connect to students, he said.. Monroe should offer a class similar to Politcizing Beyonce`, said Alyssa Marvaso. Its important to reconigze popular culture with the current issues in our society. Students can take Politicizing Beyonce at Rutgers University starting this summer. Hopefully, with this class being the first, many more classes involving the effects of popular culture on everyday issues will begin to appear at colleges across the country.
Agora Photo
Blood drives on campus have become popular among students hoping to do a good deed.
Feel good, give blood

Stephen Pipis
Agora Staff
This is the first year that MCCC has hosted three blood drives by the Red Cross, a departure from the usual two per year. The college usually gives two blood drives a year. The third blood drive will be held on March 18th. The blood that the Red Cross collects from blood drives goes to supply the 25 thousand pints a year demand from Mercy Memorial Hospital. Remaing pints are then sent out to 10 other counties and several cities including Ann Arbor, Detroit and Toledo. Monroe Charter Red Cross CEO Laura SchultzPipis says that one pint of donated blood can save up to three lives. In our county we have over 200 blood drives a year, Shultz-Pipis said. The Monroe Red Cross chapter is the only Michigan chapter in the Western Lake Erie blood region. Its headquaters is located in Toledo. Since blood is considered a pharmaceutical, it is heavily regulated by the FDA. People hoping to donate blood must meet specific eligibility requirements, Schultz-Pipis said. The greatest demand for blood usually comes around the holidays and summer, she said. There has also been a need for blood because of the severe weather. The blood drive at MCCC in March is also a double red cell drive. This allows people to donate two pints of blood instead of just one, according to Schultz-Pipis. Michelle McDevitt, vice president of student government, has donated blood three times at the college. She plans to donate again in March. McDevitt has also volunteered to help set up all of the blood drives. According to McDevitt, the first blood drive of the year usually goes over really well. The second blood
In our county, we have over 200 blood drives a year.

Laura Schultz-Pipis Red Cross Monroe CEO
drive did not go over as well as the first one. We really hope the one in March goes better than the last one, said McDevitt. Student Tim Hattis has donated blood multiple times at the college, and plans to donate again in March. He said he is usually one of the first people that go to give blood. There are four types of transfusable products from blood; they are red cells, platelest, plasma, and cryoprecipitate, according to a handout provided by the Red Cross. The handout also explained that the red cells collected are used within 42 days of collection, platelets are used within five days, and plasma and cryoprecipitate are stored frozen and can last up to a year. The handout explained that Type O-negative blood can be used as a universal donor.This means that anyone can receive Type O-negative blood in an emergency. Type-AB blood donors can be universal plasma donors. Important things for blood donors to remember are to get a good nights sleep, eat a good breakfast on the monring of donating, and to drink plenty of fluids. The Red Cross is always in need of volunteers, Schultz-Pipis said. We rely on volunteers to do what we do, she said. For more information on the Red Cross blood drives, and to sign up to volunteer and donate, please go to www.redcrossblood.org.
February 20, 2014
Roads covered; why is campus open?

Jacob Adams
Agora Staff
Campus News
|5
Photo By: Reggie Allen
Mountains of snow can make getting to class seem like an obstacle course.
A record-breaking winter is shedding a spotlight on MCCCs snow-day policy. This winter has seen exceptionally harsh weather, with wind-chill temperatures dipping as low as -30 degrees and countless inches of snow. With record low temperatures and snowfalls, and already three days of school cancelled, many students have been wondering exactly how MCCC decides to cancel school. Randy Daniels, Vice President of Student Services, is in charge of making these decisions. He described the process of deciding when to close the campus. Ive been in this office for nine years, and this has been the most challenging in regards to weather, he said. We even closed a couple of days before the students were back for the winter semester. I dont recall that happening in years, he said. The decision making process starts for Daniels at 3:30 a.m. After waking up, he goes for a drive around town to evaluate the road conditions. After his drive, Daniels turns to the Internet. There are a variety of websites to check, he said. Some of these sites include Michigan transportation websites, state police sites, and news sites such as channels 11, 7, 4, and 2. Daniels is also in close contact with the MCCC maintenance staff about the weather. Things like what is the condition of the campus, he said. I use all of these resources to make my decision. A question many students ask is why MCCC stays open on days that most public schools are closed. Theyre apples and oranges in comparison, said Daniels. We dont have a busing situation to deal with. Were primarly a park and walk campus. Students and faculty have their own thoughts on campus closing and the weather. Aaron Kipfmiller, a supplemental instructor, said he couldnt make it one occasion even when the college was open. I missed two days due to weather, but I understand, since I dont actually live in Monroe, he said. Although out-of-county students are more prone to these concerns, Daniels says they arent left out of the decision. We take travelling students into account, but most of our students live in Monroe, he said. Celina Defqueirdo-Dusseau, a student who travels from Toledo, enjoys the weather but has trouble making it at times. I love the cold and the snow, but I drive from To-
Agora photo by Reggie Allen
Snow is piling up in the campus parking lots.
Ive been in this office for nine years, and this has been the most challenging in regards to weather.
Randy Daniels Vice President of Student Services
ledo. There have been times when we were under a level 3 advisory and I couldnt make it in, she said. It can be tough. Rhiannon Heckel, studying to become a nurse, said weather can be problematic. Im in the nursing program, she said. Were penalized if we miss any clinical or lab days. When the school is open and people cant get here, theyre out of luck. Without having any control of the weather, Daniels makes the best decision he can. While some students disagree, Timothy Yoakum, a Writing Fellow, says he supports the colleges decisions. I embrace every season as it is. When the school is open, I think it should be. Whoever is in charge of closing decisions is fair, he said.
Musicians get themselves out there

He plays in two bands, one called Tall Cool One, which is a Led Zeppelin/Robert Plant tribute band. The band is having its first gig soon at the All Around Bar in Taylor. Wilson says that playing with this band has been an awesome experience. The other band is so far unnamed, but pulling itself together. Wilson was really turned on to music when he went to his first live show at the DTE Music Theater in 2007 to see Deep Purple. The only thing cooler than experiencing a live show is to be the one on stage performing, Wilson said. Music for him is more than a hobby, its a passion. He remembers his first audition for a band being in sixth grade. He sang We Are The Champions by Queen, because it was the only karaoke CD his mom had. It was his first time performing in front of people he didnt know, and he remembers being terrified. Now, Wilson performs almost weekly at Thirstys Bar and Grille in Dundee at its Sunday night blues jams. He says he has completely lost his sense of stage freight. Music has taught Wilson to be more outgoing and meet new people. His favorite live experience was playing for a Dundee class reunion his sophomore year. He and two other Dundee students played an eight-song set; it was Wilsons first paid gig. He said he loved the way it felt for people to be enthralled with his music.
Wilson thinks that growing as a musician in Monroe is difficult because of the lack of venues. He said there are few opportunities for starting musicians to get themselves out there, and there are few successful efforts. Wilson is concerned with cuts to high school music programs because it is making it harder for students to learn music and be connected with other musicians. I wouldnt be a musician if it wasnt for my band teacher, he said. Wilson says he has become successful thanks to Thirstys in Dundee and the support from individuals. Nothing can come close to the feeling of music for him. When you are passionate about music, people feel what you say instead of hear it, Wilson said. MCCC student Evin Daniels was a drummer and singer for an alternative rock/ punk band called Arrows, which recently broke up. Also in the band was Lucas Vasbinder, another MCCC student. They have played at the former Hookah Bar in Monroe and also shows in Toledo, Bowling Green, Ashtabula, Marietta Ohio, and Pittsburgh, Penn. Meeting new people and seeing new places will always be the main incentive. If I make a buck or two thatll be the icing on the cake, Daniels said. Though he admits that it is extremely difficult to get publicity in Monroe because the music scene is non-existent, he thinks people should always go for their dreams. Daniels has this advice for Monroe musicians. Do whatever you can to get yourself out there. If you have an
idea, dont be scared to share it. Run with it, he said. Pursue shows you would never think you could play and just do it. If no one wants to give you a chance, put on your own shows and have a bunch of friends come out. Having a do-it-yourself attitude is key and will always pay off. Former MCCC student Vincent Sperling fell in love with music at a very young age and has been climbing the totem pole ever since. Vinnie spent most of his growing years making music. He played the clarinet and tuba in high school and received his first guitar for Christmas in 2007. I remember first hearing bands like Guns and Roses and Green Day on the radio when I was hardly more than a toddler and just connected immediately, he said. Music has always had a big part in my life, from movie soundtracks to rock bands, and when the opportunity came to learn about it, I couldnt hesitate. He is the lead vocalist for Northern Shores, formerly known as Crowns Aside. Like many other local bands, Northern Shores plays shows mostly in Toledo, where the music scene is bigger. Playing a show with Attilla offered me the greatest musical experience of my life. The show was packed, the crowd loved our set, everyone had a phenomenal time, said Vinnie. Ive never felt so good about my music before. Northern Shores is raising the funds to record its first EP, but until then the band does have a single out called, The Exalted, which was released Aug. 5, 2013.
MCCC student Daniel Wilson plays at Thirstys Sunday night blues jam.
Former MCCC student Vinnie Sperling is pictured at front right in this photo of Northern Shores.
MCCC student Mariana Chaves, right, plays the synthesizer and sings lead vocals for The Old Adage.
February 20, 2014
A&E
|6
Nintendo brings back the past classics

Jacob Adams
Agora staff
Nintendo is reviving a classic storyline with a sequel 21 years later. The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds is a brand new Zelda title for the Nintendo 3DS. Everyone seems to love Zelda, but what is special about this title is its connection to the 1992 Super Nintendo classic, The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past. A Link to the Past is widely regarded as not only one of the best Zelda titles ever released, but also as one of the greatest video games ever made. Luckily, the new sequel, A Link Between Worlds, does not disappoint. The game is straightforward, as most Zelda titles are: There is some threat to Hyrule, and the player, as young Link, must save the kingdom and rescue Princess Zelda. In A Link Between Worlds players
must do just that. The game, while keeping with old formulas, pulls you in with its classic gameplay, as well as a certain level of nostalgia. The gameplay is largely similar to past games as well; however, the gameplay is considered classic for a reason: Its simply a lot of fun. There are endless hours of slashing foes, shooting arrows at enemies, and throwing boomerangs. Nintendo has introduced a new weapons system where, instead of finding new weapons and items
at the end of dungeons, you have access to almost all of them at the beginning of the game. They are rented from a character I wont name, and return to him upon any player deaths. Link has a new ability as well, and the game revolves heavily around its use. The new mechanic entails merging onto walls as a flat, two-dimensional painting. This feature allows Link to slide along walls, travel through tiny cracks and openings, and reach new areas. As in its predecessor, the player will travel between worlds as well. Some may remember this feature from A Link to the Past. Travelling to the dark world is just as frightening as before, with your fellow Hylians being turned into monsters. Nintendo takes a stab at adding a little replay value to the game with inclusion of some in-world mini games, as well as the collecting of items which will
Nintendo, while taking a chance by creating a sequel to one of its most beloved games of all time, does not disappoint.
take most players longer than the actual storyline to complete. Nintendo, while taking a chance by creating a sequel to one of its most beloved games of all time, does not disappoint. A Link Between Worlds has the perfect balance of old and new. Nostalgia reigns supreme in The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds, out now for the Nintendo 3DS.
Hearts break over Lone Survivor

Mariah Tevepaugh
Agora Staff
Monroes Big Band returns with a bang

The Monroe Big Band, a communitybased group, entertained the Meyer Theater with classics and newer sounds on Feb. 8. Although the Monroe Big Band is composed of local Monroe community members, for their first appearance since 2011, the string section from the Adrian Symphony played as well.
Lone Survivor. Take a good look at that title. Please do not go into this movie thinking good will triumph over bad easily with a title like that. Do not go into this movie if you dont like to see bullets punching through bodies of men. This is a movie of war and truth. This is a movie of heartbreak. The movie opened with reallife clips of Navy SEALS in training so watchers get to experience the bonding of men through hard times and how any day in the life of a soldier could be a day in Hell. From that, watchers feel like they personally know each soldier and begin to get attached to each one as they are taken along on a mission that ends up taking a turn for the worse. What seemed like a minor decision in the grand scheme of things, turned into a battle for their lives. Scene after scene, they faced situations where it seemed like they couldnt catch a break and you start to think, jeez, can it get any worse? Yet it does, time after time again. The men experience loss both physically and emotionally and
still, the suffering continues. It is not until near the end of the movie where compassion shines a light and hope is brought into the picture by the kindness of a man and his son and by a code respected by their village. This is one of the most realistic, heartrending movies I have ever seen. Mark Wahlberg and other cast-mates did an amazing job of making this Mark Wahlberg stars as Marcus Luttrell in The theatrical production seem like real Lone Survivor life happening in front of your eyes. ated with this movie should get a round of applause for providing The stunt doubles defianswers to some of our question nitely earned their pay s and for exposing the nitty-gritty to shoot this movie. Overall, the cast, directors, job of what each soldier has deproducers, and anyone affili- cided to take on.
The time is
February 20, 2014
Editorial
Participate in two immigration projects
The novel featured in Monroe Countys One Book, One Community project this year is The Distance Between Us, by Reyna Grande. Its the story of Grandes life as a little girl in Mexico and her immigration to the United States. Two of the projects this spring focus on the immigration experience. Coming to Monroe gives area residents a chance to tell their immigration stories either their own, if theyre first-generation immigrants, or their ancestors. Anyone can contribute their story by going to: http://monroepublishing.com/ contribute/one-book-2014/. You can also tell your story with a selfie, a video you create yourself with your smart phone. Immigration Reform: A Family issue is a panel discussion at 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 1, in the La-Z-Boy Center. Experts on immigration reform will join with immigrants from Mexico to discuss how U.S. immigration policy affects families and some of the options for reform. The panel discussion is sponsored by The Agora.
|7
One Book projects examine immigration

Theres nothing in my life experience that helps me relate to Reyna Grandes stories of her childhood in Mexico and her frightening crossing of the border into the U.S. Ms. Grandes memoir, The Distance Between Us, is heart-wrenching in its simple, honest description of life for a little girl separated from her parents by The American Dream. First her father, then her mother, left their small town in southern Mexico for the long journey to El Otro Lado (The Other Side), looking for a better life for their family. When Reyna Dan Shaw eventually reunited Agora Adviser with her father for the trip to America, it meant stumbling across the desert at night, dodging searchlights from helicopters hovering overhead. She was 12, scared out of her wits, curled in a ball under a bush. My great-grandparents, who traveled the Oregon Trail to settle in the Pacific Northwest, could probably relate better. They undoubtedly faced hardships, too, crossing the Rockies in a wagon in the 1880s. Like Reynas parents, they also were chasing the American Dream. Because of my great-grandparents
Journalism professor Dan Shaw's ancestors took the Oregon Trail to Wallowa County in the Northeast corner of Oregon, where they homesteaded. This is his grandmother, aunt and uncle in their cabin in about 1915.
courageous trip, I grew up in a small town in Oregon, within sight of the Cascade Mountains and a short drive to the Pacific Ocean. The only similarity with Reyna Grandes childhood was the focus on family. My brother was my best friend, just as her childhood revolved around her sister. My Coming to Monroe story also has little drama in it, and again family is the only thing that connects it with Reynas story. While she followed her father to El Otro Lado, I followed my grandchildren to Southeast Michigan. When we had a chance to re-locate, my wife and I chose Monroe because it was close to our daughters family in Saline. She came to
the area to attend the University of Michigan, and fell in love with the state. Family is a connection that is understood well by most Michiganders. You hear stories constantly of people who left Michigan looking for jobs, but returned because of family. For Reyna Grandes father and millions of other immigrants to the U.S., the desire to create a better life for your family is a driving force. There are jobs waiting in the U.S., but no legal way to get them. So they put their lives in danger hundreds die each year crossing the border from Mexico and then live shadow lives in the U.S. They contribute to the U.S. economy, filling jobs many Ameri-
cans wouldnt take while living in fear theyll be caught and their families split apart again. Monroe plays a significant role in this process. The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention facility for this area is located at the Monroe County Jail off Dunbar Road near I-75. Thousands of people like Reynas father are detained there every year, often waiting to be sent back to Mexico or other countries. Congress has been debating immigration reform for years many thought 2013 would finally be the year when the logjam would break. But it didnt happen, and it now looks unlikely for 2014.
Reyna Grandes story puts a face a shy little girls face on the immigration reform debate. It serves as a startling reminder of the unintended consequences for families of U.S. immigration policies. As I said, theres nothing in my life that allows me to relate to Reynas childhood. But her story does inspire me to think hard about U.S. immigration policies. I invite you to participate in the One Book, One Community events, particularly to tell your own immigration story, or to attend the panel discussion on "Immigration Reform: A Family Issue." Both are chances to get involved: filling in a piece of Monroe Countys history, or joining the discussion about immigration reform.
Respect is a basic right - and it's in our college Constitution

Respect! I have written about what to do for Valentines Day, tips about how you could study better, and what Christmas was truly about. I have seen positive things coming from my column over the past few months. B u t when a fellow student walks up to me Ray Bell and asks Agora staf me to write about how some students are harassing her based on her age, it makes me sick. How can we act so snobbish to one another when we are all here for the purpose of gaining a more extensive education than the one we received in high school? It is truly baffling. It also is against school policy. According to the Student Code of Conduct in our colleges Constitution, students at MCCC are expected to show respect for order, law, the rights of others and the mission of the college, as well as to maintain standards of personal integrity. If you are harassing someone, you are in direct violation of this code. Should we reprimand those in violation of this code of conduct? Absolutely, but using the proper channels in order to see that justice has been served. If you are being harassed or have seen anything that the college finds in violation of its code of conduct policy, you should report it to security or to Randy Daniels, who is the Vice President of Student and Information Services here at MCCC. He will then notify the student that a complaint was filed against them, meet and discuss what the complaint was about, and decide disciplinary action. That could include a warning, cutting certain student privileges, paying the college, or dismissing them from the college. Daniels lets the student know what the discipline is via a letter. But should we attend a college that allows this harassing behavior to go on without consequences? No, we should not. There is no elitism here on campus. We are all here to gain the education we need or want to further ourselves. If we cannot because of bullies or anyone trying to harass others, then a zero-tolerance program must be installed in the college. Why should we be scared to come to a college that allows bullies or any type of persecution to walk freely in the halls? I have no advice to give for those who are being harassed, other than report it as soon as possible. If the problem is left alone with no action being taken, then nothing will be solved in the end. Take the necessary steps to ensure a safe and friendly environment, which this college wants for all of its students, teachers, and faculty. I want to give the student who approached me the voice needed to get the problem fixed. Because the voice of one can make the voice of the many rise to get the problem solved.
Dear Chairman Bill and trustees of Monroe County Community College, directors of The Foundation at MCCC, President Kojo, Vice Presidents Grace, Randy and Sue, administrators, faculty and staff of MCCC: On behalf of myself and the entire extended family of my mother, Shirley Adele Meyer, please accept our deepest gratitude for the many, beautiful and touching expressions of support and sympathy. The exquisite eulogy by Vice President Sue Wetzel, the wonderful resolution of tribute adopted and presented by the Board of Trustees and the lovely blog post by President Quartey were profoundly meaningful. Each superbly captured my mothers spirit, dynamic presence in our personal and community life, and her very proud relationship with MCCC. The video tribute at the Jeff Daniels performance ---what can I possibly say?---it was simply breathtaking! Special thanks to the exceptional team of talented folks who are responsible--Josh Myers, Sue Wetzel, Joe Verkennes, Tom Ryder, Casey Waterworth, and narrator Paul W. Smith. And thank you to the entire audience for the enthusiastic standing ovation. I am quite confident that my mother heard it! The thoughtful comments by family, friends and members of the community affirm that my mothers hopes have truly been realized. First, MCCC has clearly become the cultural arts center of the community of Monroe. Second, MCCC is front and center as the premier philanthropic choice for anyone wishing to expand and enrich educational opportunities and improve the quality of life in this special community we all love so dearly. In the video clip my mother reminisced about the opening of the La-Z-Boy Center and Meyer Theater in October 2004. She said that when saw all the smiling faces she got chills up and down her spine and that it was one of the happiest days of her life. Thank you for generously sharing that happiness with my mother and my family over and over during the last ten years. You filled her life with joy, laughter, love and meaning, and she felt those chills of excitement over and over. My mother was confident that those chills of excitement would prove highly contagious and inspire many others to support the mission of MCCCand so it has! With deep and enduring gratitude, Mike Michael Richard Meyer Chair, The Foundation at Monroe County Community College MCCC Trustee (1994-2012)
A letter of thanks...
Briefly
Nominations due for Outstanding Faculty award

The deadline for nominations for the Outstanding Faculty award is March 3. There are awards for both full-time and adjunct professors. The nominees and recipients will be announced at Honors Night in April. To nominate a faculty members, students can go to https://www.monroeccc. edu/forms/nomination_form_faculty-rev.aspx.
Whitmen Center plans women, transfer events

The Whitman Center is hosting two upcoming events The History of Women Writers and a Transfer Fair. The History of Women Writers will be at 6 p.m. March 6 in Room 9. MCCC professor Dr. Carrie Nartker will discuss women writers in the 17th and 18th centuries. The reception of the womens work, as well as subject they wrote about, will be discussed. The Transfer Fair will be held on March 26 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the atrium. Students will have the chance to speak with a college representative about available majors, prerequisites, financial aid, scholarships, distance learning and more. The universities that will be present include Central Michigan University, Eastern Michigan University, Franklin University, Lourdes University, Madonna University, Siena Heights University, Spring Arbor University, Tiffin University, and University of Toledo. Both events are free and open to the public.
Writing Center offers workshops for students

MCCCs Writing Center is sponsoring two Writing Workshops on Feb. 20. The workshops will be from 12:30-1:30 pm in 173A. The two workshops will be during the same time. The workshops will address questions regarding essay writing and research writing. Admission will be free. Seating is limited.
2015 Study Abroad trip filled up; waiting list added

MCCC's Study Abroad trip to Western Europe in May 2015 is already filled up, and a wait list has been created. The places are classic, beautiful European cities theyre places everyone dreams of visiting, said Dr. Joanna Sabo, the MCCC professor who is leading the trip. She said reasons the trip filled up so fast may include professors being more involved than ever; the addition of a business class; and starting earlier, so students had enough time to save and find financial aid for the trip. The trip is scheduled to leave Detroit on May 11, 2015, returning May 27. The 18-day trip will visit Holland, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, France, England and Ireland. Classes that can be taken are Comparative Politics, Art Appreciation, and Business Management. Students can take three to nine credits but have to take at least one class while on the trip. The trip will cost approximately $4,100. Students can use fund raising, low interest student loans and federal aid to help pay the cost. A waitlist is still available; all you have to do is contact Sabo via email and include a phone number. There are two more informational hearings for students who are interested: Monday, Feb. 24 at 7:30 pm in L-Z-Boy center Room 258, and Thursday, March 20 at 8:30 pm in the same room.
National Galvanizing L.P. who graduated in 1999; Christopher Holmes, who graduated from MCCC in 2013 and remains active in student government, student ambassador, and other clubs at MCCC; Liesel Riggs, a 1995 graduate who is employed by Sienna Heights University as a senior communications specialist; James Thomas, who graduated from MCCC in 2010 and is employed by Penstone Inc. as a financial and planning manager. Each of their terms begins on March 17. They replace Sara Bacarella-Accardo, Alan Barron, John Kuriwchak, Jacob McLaughlin, Jennifer Miller and Josh Myers.
MCCC offers six courses on family life for parents

Six free family-life education courses designed to provide bite-sized information for parents are being offered by MCCC. Topics of the courses include stress management, the role of parental authority, emotional and physical health of parents, strengthening family communication, bullying and building self-esteem. The courses, offered by MCCCs Office of Lifelong Learning, are: Feb 19: Feeling Frazzled, 6-8 p.m., La-Z-Boy Center, Main Campus Room 260. Feb 27: Parenting on Purpose, 6-8 p.m., Whitman Center, Temperance, Room 9. March 19: The Healthy Parent, 6-8 p.m., LaZ-Boy Center, Room 260. March 27: Can You Hear Me Now 6-8 p.m., Whitman Center, Temperance, Room 9. April 16: Bullying, 6-8 p.m., La-Z-Boy Center, Room 260. March 27: Do You Know You are Beautiful? Building Self-esteem Within the Family, 6-8 p.m., Whitman Center, Temperance, Room 9. The sessions are free and open to the public; call the Office of Lifelong Learning at (734) 384-4127 to register.
MCCC offers $1,000 Nursing scholarship

Donald and Linda Petree, along with The Foundation at Monroe County Community College, have started the Sarah Augie (Petree) Tendrick Nursing Scholarship at MCCC. The annual scholarship was created in memory of Sarah Augie (Petree) Tendrick. She passed away unexpectedly from cardiomyopathy. The $1,000 nursing scholarship will be awarded for the 2014-2015 academic year. In order to qualify, the applicant must be a second-year nursing student enrolled in the registered nursing program . Preference will be given to a young, single parent. A 500-word essay detailing why they deserve the scholarship, as well as discussing cardiomyopathy.
New Alumni Association board members named

Julie Edwards is the new chairwoman of the MCCC Alumni Association Board of Directors. The board named Richard Greer vice chair, and announced six new members to the board. Edwards graduated from MCCC in 2005 and is employed by Sienna Heights as the assistant director of graduate and undergraduate studies on the MCCC campus. Greer graduated from MCCC in 2010 and worked for Monroe Public Schools for 33 years before retiring in August 2008. The six new members are: Wendy Abbott, who graduated from MCCCs licensed practical nursing program in 2011; Amber Barron, an environmental scientist/geologist who graduated in 2003; Leon Bartley, a quality/materials manager for
February 20, 2014
Oscar anticipation builds

By Ray Bell
Agora Staff
A&E
|8
Jennifer Lawrence is nominated for Best Actress in a Supporting role
Hollywoods biggest night is growing to be a really good night. The 86th Academy Awards are rapidly approaching and the race for the Big Six, the six major categories, are closer than ever before. On March 2nd, the world will find out who will win that precious golden statue. The nominations were announced in January and have been a major buzz around the world. Fans are wondering if their favorite movie, actors, and directors are going to win it all. Various news and social media sites are releasing their picks for the Big Six. Here is a rundown of popular picks. For Best Actress in a Leading Role, the race is tight. The odds-on favorite according to Yahoo, Los Angeles Times, and IndieWire.com is Cate Blanchett for her role in Blue Jasmine. Hollywood loves her performance in Woody Allens 43rd directorial work. The upset pick would be Sandra Bullock in Gravity, but so would Amy Adams (American Hustle), Judi Dench (Philomena), and Meryl Streep (August: Osage County). Most feel that this is Blanchetts year for the Oscar. Best Actress in a Supporting Role is another tightly contested race, and there are plenty of picks for the win in March. Yahoo has Jennifer Lawrence winning for American Hustle. LA Times and IndieWire.com have Lupita Nyongo for 12 Years a Slave claiming the Oscar.
It is a toss-up at this point, especially when you have other actresses like Sally Hawkins (Blue Jasmine), Julia Roberts (August: Osage County), and June Squibb (Nebraska) in the mix. For Best Actor in a Leading Role, there is no contest. Matthew McConaughey in Dallas Buyers Club is the hands down favorite from everyone to win this category. Nothing against Chiwetel Ejiofor (12 Years a Slave), Bruce Dern (Nebraska), Leonardo DiCaprio (The Wolf of Wall Street), and Christian Bale (American Hustle), but the transformation he went through for this role was one of the biggest an actor can go through. Best Actor in a Supporting Role is a very close race, showcasing the veterans and the newcomers of the big screen. The favorite to win is Jared Leto in Dallas Buyers Club, according to media outlets. But there are plenty of good actors on the list, including Barkhad Abdi (Captain Phillips), Bradley Cooper (American Hustle), Michael Fassbender (12 Years a Slave), and Jonah Hill (The Wolf of Wall Street). Best Director has been called before in years past, but anything can happen when Oscar Night comes around. Alfonso Cuaron and Gravity are the clear choice after the win at this years Golden Globes. The only director able to steal the win would be Steve McQueen and 12 Years a Slave. Other great directors on this list who are in the running are Alexander Payne (Nebraska), David O. Russell (American Hustle), and Martin Scorsese (The Wolf of Wall Street). And finally, Best Picture. With nine films
Mathew McConaughey is nominated for Best Actor in a Lead Role
up for this prestigious award, it is hard to say who will win. American Hustle seems to be the Vegas frontrunner, but Gravity might pull of the steal. Her could also be a dark horse in this race. Others in the mix include 12 Years a Slave, Captain Phillips, Dallas Buyers Club, Nebraska, Philomena, and The Wolf of Wall Street. Whatever movie, actor, and director you are rooting for, make sure you tune in March 2 to ABC.
Alfonso Cuaron is nominated for Best Director for the Movie Gravity. Gravity also won at this years Golden Globes
Cate Blanchett is nominated for Best Actress in a Leading Role

Did you know
a n e i S

Overall Newspaper Design - MCCC - Staff

Загружено:

Сведения о документе

Авторское право

Доступные форматы

Поделиться этим документом

Поделиться или встроить документ

Параметры публикации

Этот документ был вам полезен?

Это неприемлемый материал?

Авторское право:

Доступные форматы

Overall Newspaper Design - MCCC - Staff

Загружено:

Авторское право:

Доступные форматы

THE

Nursing program clears hurdle

Halloween at MCCC, photos page 3

Continued accreditation recommended

Health Science Dean Kim Lindquist

Photo by Reggie Allen

New childcare option available for students

Photo by Katie Mullin

Costumed students perform poetry to full theater

Photo by Reggie Allen

Check out The Agora online at

Fitness Center Hours:

Mon - Thurs: 10 a.m. - 7:30 Fri - Sat: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Serving Monroe County Community College since 1968

mcccagora.com The Agora

Continued from Page 1

Nursing program boasts high success rates

Faculty contract still at a standstill

Photo by Reggie Allen

E,W Tech buildings may be remodeled; other issues discussed by Trustees

Photo by Katie Mullin

Other highlights of the Oct. 28

2013 Monroe County High School Gradutes at MCCC

The Agora Editorial Policy

mcccagora.com The Agora

Students groove to the cha cha slide on the dance floor.

A zombified version of Logan Fransisco and Cherie Farley.

Photos by Reggie Allen

Students pose to show off their costumes.

Student Jacob Gonyea danced dressed as a pirate.

mcccagora.com The Agora

College Night attracts record numbers

Its important to know about deadlines, and how to apply.

Speaker brings native spirituality to MCCC

I saw the white wolf come to you...

Photo courtesy of John Bailey

The MCCC Writing Center ...

Top ten reasons to become a writing fellow at MCCC

mcccagora.com The Agora

Pink-Out day draws few students

Photo by Reggie Allen

Blood drive gives chance to contribute

Agora photo by Darryl White

Professor helps students learn to be allies of LGBT

Host families needed for exchange students

Native American presentation held

Students get chance to meet president

Art show scheduled at Whitman Center

Cuisine 1300 opens for fall semester

New punk albums excite fans

mcccagora.com The Agora

With Abrams at the helm, Star Wars is safe

Photo courtesy Jeff Christiansen

Apply now for spring semester at utoledo.edu/admission/transfer

mcccagora.com The Agora

Flesh-eating drug making its way to U.S.?

Illustration by Darryl White

Its never a bad time to re-evaluate insurance

Eye catching resume tips

Give yourself a break

Sports Detroit Pistons boast talented new line-up

mcccagora.com The Agora

Photo courtesy of Wikipedia

Beloved Detroit manager announces retirment