Erie Square Gazette 63.2 Serving the Blue Water area since 1931. A public forum by and for the students of SC4.
September
26 2013
calendar...2 sports.................14 campus...3
entertainment...9
opinion...11 community........13
Remembering Twana Pinskey
Veterans unite: new club at SC4
1 Erie Square Gazette Editor-in-Chief
Erick Fredendall Production Editor Zack Penzien Business Editor Edward Weaver Copy Editor Emily Mainguy Spider-Managing Editor Nick Wedyke Webmistress Rebecca Kelly Photo Editor Liz Whittemore Sports Editor Brendan Buffa Adviser John Lusk ESG Contact Info: Email: eriesquaregazette@gmail.com Address: 323 Erie St Port Huron MI 48060 Editor’s Note: All views expressed in editorials and columns contained within the ESG are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of the ESG or any of its advertisers. We welcome feedback!
Find us at esgonline.org
community Sept. 26-28 - Railroads of the Michigan Thumb Travelling Exhibit Knowlton Ice Museum, 317 Grand River Ave. Port Huron 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Kids under 6 are free, Adults $5.00, Seniors $4.00 Sept. 27 - J Chris Newberg Comedy Show McMorran Theatre 9:00 - 11:00 p.m. General Admission $17 Doors open one hour prior to event
Sept. 27 - Y Family Pool Party YMCA, 1525 3rd Street, Port Huron 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Members free, Non-members $5 per person Sept. 28 - Blue Water Film Festival McMorran Theatre 10:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. General Admission $20 Doors open one hour prior to event Sept. 28 – Port Huron Oktoberfest Wolverine Market, Kiefer Park, 400 Merchant Street, Port Huron $35 Advance ticket, $40 at gate
Oct. 1-31 - “Art of Our Women” Show Studio 1219 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Oct. 3 - Baker College Job Fair Baker College, 3403 Lapeer Road, Port Huron 4:00 - 6:00 p.m.
Oct. 4 - “Ooh La La” Artful Fall Fashion Show by Suzannes Studio 1219 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. $15, Hors D’oeuvers included, Cash Bar
Oct. 5 - Oct. 6 - Picasso Gallery Exhibit McMorran Theatre, Memorial room and Lounge $5 at door, over 20 exhibits, reproductions and prints; original works from poetry to painting Oct. 7 - Town Hall guest speaker Scott Hamilton McMorran Theatre 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. Individual tickets $40
Calendar Individual Luncheons $25
campus
Sept. 26 – Erie Square Gazette Meeting SC4 Main Building, Room 122 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. Interested students welcome to attend
Sept. 26 – Marketing & Management Club Meeting SC4 Main Building, Room 112 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. Sept. 26-28 - “A Splash of Color” Spiral Gallery, Studio 1219 Featuring work of SC4 student Emily Mainguy
Sept. 27 - SC4 90th Anniversary Exhibit SC4 Fine Arts Gallery 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Oct.1-31 - Frost and Fire Spiral Gallery, Studio 1219 Featuring work of Veronica Mainguy
Oct. 1- Club Awareness Day SC4 College Center Atrium 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. & 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. Oct. 1 – Zombie Defense Council SC4 College Center Atrium 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.
Oct. 1 – Student Government Meeting SC4 Main Building, Room 110 3:00 - 4:00 p.m. Oct.1 Phi Theta Kappa blood drive Sc4 college center cafe 10:00am - 3;45 p, Oct. 2 – Drama Club Meeting SC4 Fine Arts Building, Room 26 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Oct. 3 – Erie Square Gazette Meeting SC4 Main Building, Room 122 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. Interested students welcome to attend
Oct. 3 – Marketing & Management Club Meeting SC4 Main Building, Room 112 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. Oct. 4 – All Club Meeting
SC4 North Building, Room 109 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Oct. 4-28 - Collectively Independent SC4 Fine Arts Gallery Showcase of SC4 art faculty’s work
Oct. 5 - Tribute to Ray Charles Dinner and Concert SC4 Fine Arts Theatre 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. Purchase tickets by Sept. 27 Oct. 8 – Student Government Meeting SC4 Main Building, Room 110 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. Oct. 8 – Zombie Defense Council SC4 College Center Atrium 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.
Oct. 10 - National Depression Screening SC4 College Center 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Oct. 10 –SC4 First Course Delivered by Television SC4 College Center Atrium 12:00 p.m.
*note to student clubs: contact editorial crew at eriesquaregazette@gmail.com to get your meeting times posted.
sports
Women’s Volleyball Schedule
Sept. 28- Kalamazoo Community College @ 12:00 p.m. Lansing Community College @4:30 p.m. Sept. 29- Cincinnati Tech State @ 10:00 a.m. Grand Rapids Community College @ 2:30 p.m. Oct. 3- Oakland Community College @ 7:00 p.m. **Admission: $3 adults, $1 students, children under 8 no fee Oct. 8- Schoolcraft College @ 7:00 p.m. **Home games are indicated in bold
2
Campus From the Editor
ESG mourns the loss of editor and friend
I often found myself reading her Erick J. pieces over and over hoping that I Fredendall could find the secret formula that Editor-in-Chief made her stories so successful. A day before she passed, Lusk visited the hospital with a copy of the latest issue of the Gazette. “It’s beautiful,” she said as she flipped through the pages. Her daughter, Julie, said those were With a heavy heart we say farewell some of the last words that Twana to Twana Pinskey, an incredible was able to say. woman whose legacy of exceptional I choked up hearing that. One of writing and familiar warmth will be the unspoken thoughts drifting remembered by the ESG newsroom around the newsroom is the Erie for years to come. Square Gazette has been notoriously Twana passed away Sept. 21 at underpublicized and ignored by SC4 8:21 p.m., in Beaumont Hospital students. surrounded by family and friends And it’s tough. Journalists don’t after a battle against breast cancer, become journalists for the large pots which she had been diagnosed with of inexistent money at the end of the in June. bachelor-degree-rainbow. She was predeceased by husband, We write for the impact our David Pinskey Sr., and is survived writing has on others. by two daughters, a son, seven Sometimes we feel like our grandchildren, and a newsroom. messages are falling on deft ears. It Twana’s involvement at the Erie can be discouraging. Square Gazette seemed to be so But sometimes we also forget rooted that you’d have thought that that in the end, the people who are they had always existed together. affected the most are the writers She served multiple positions in themselves. To Twana, the paper the editorial crew including three was one of the most important semesters as editor-in-chief. elements of her life. Twana was as much of a mentor Twana’s life is a reminder to our as she a role model. Many students writers that sometimes leaving the turned to her for guidance on newsroom isn’t even necessary to writing and reporting, myself make an impact on someone. included. And Twana’s passing reminds The “lede of the issue” recognition us that even after leaving, our that ESG advisor John Lusk always writers will always be a part of the announces every issue was newsroom. magnetized to Twana’s stories, and We’ll miss you, Mama Bird.
For more on Twana, pages 14-15
Reporter of the Month For September 2013 Angie Stoecklin Erick Fredendall Editor-in-Chief
editors are extremely grateful. This was the case with Angie Stoecklin. Reporter of the Month is an award In a newsroom where only one given to a staff writer of the Erie article is required by staff writers Square Gazette for journalistic every two weeks, Stoecklin volexcellence or for above and beyond untarily accepted multiple news assistance given to help the Gazette stories in both issues that have been in its mission to produce a quality published since the beginning of the publication for the students of SC4. semester. Staff writers are chosen by vote On production night, Stoecklin volfrom the editorial team. untarily showed up and helped the editors search for news stories for The first few weeks of the ESG be- the calendar, lightening the load for ing back in print are tough for all the everyone on one of the most stresseditorial team. Almost every semes- ful nights of the week. ter brings new changes to the GaThe editorial crew is extremely zette, spanning from simple layout grateful for the enthusiasm and effixes to the frustration new editors fort Angie has given to help this pubencounter as they accommodate to lication to succeed and is pleased the responsibilities of their position. to recognize Stoecklin as the first When a staff writer steps up and Reporter of the Month for the fall helps loosen the load during the 2013 semester. beginning of the fall semester, the
3
Campus
Veterans unite: new club at SC4 Kristopher Reynolds Staff Writer
Clubs: a reoccurring theme here at SC4. Drama Club, Erie Square Gazette, Radio Club, Music Club, Magic the Gathering Club...there’s even a Zombie Defense Council. No matter what it is, there is more than likely a club for it. So what about a Veteran’s Club? Until recently, that is one club that was seemingly absent from the lineup; until Lee Harrison came along. Harrison is currently President of Alpha-2 Mike November Charlie, a brand new club endeavor here at SC4, usually monikered as simply ‘the Vets Club’ by students and faculty in an effort to save a mouthful. Harrison served eight years collectively in the Marine Corps, beginning July 2003 right after he graduated high school. He was selected to participate in Fleet Anti-Terrorism Security Team, or FAST. FAST is responsible for being first responders to any and all attacks on embassies all over the world, having four hours from the time of notification to reach their destination (hence the acronym). When Harrison decided to retire from the Marines and pursue a degree in Business Management he said, “I was shocked to find there was no club or organization via SC4 for veterans and military personnel”. Harrison decided this needed to changed, and with help formed the new Alpha-2 Mike November Charlie club on campus. The club is still early in its creation, so meetings, times, and locations are currently flexible and changing. To
‘Vets Club’ President Lee Harrison. Portrait by Kristopher Reynolds
join, one must be active, retired, or in reserve of any branch of United States military. According to Harrison, the club functions as not only a networking group for these peoples, but as an information source on attaining various benefits and bonuses provided to veterans. The club also acts as place to share experiences and provide a coping mechanism for those who have experienced armed combat among
other military-centered scenarios. Harrison said the idea for the name was proposed after extensive brainstorming: Air Force and Army (Alpha-2), Marines (Mike), Navy (November), and Coast Guard Charlie). “We wanted something more original than Vets Club,” said Harrison. Alpha, Mike, November, and Charlie are phonetics used by all branches of military personnel. ‘The Vets Club’ plans on organizing Toys for Tots bins around campus
this year, as well as doing volunteer work at various soup kitchens to feed the hungry. The club is currently looking for more community service and volunteer work. Students interested joining Alpha-2 Mike November Charlie can find them on Facebook or contact Harrison at 1-757-291-0717 or via email at usmclee85@yahoo.com.
4
Campus The benefits of clubs
Mairead Warner Staff Writer
try new things and maybe find something that sparks one’s interests. Clubs can help build How do clubs help students? That experiences, for example, book is the question a lot of students ask clubs can help make a writer a when looking for and joining clubs. better by exposing the writer to new Sarah Finnie, the Student Events literature that they may not have Coordinator said, “Clubs are a good read. way for students to get involved and Even joining off beat clubs like the help out in the community and in Zombie Defense Council will show the college.” an ability to express individuality “Clubs help students relieve stress and an ability to work in a group and are a good way to network,” said environment. The ability to connect Finne. Networking is an essential with a different group of people can skill to have when entering or help when working with the public continuing in the workforce. and even help develop leadership There are a lot of benefits in skills. becoming a part of a club such as Jessyca Fye 17, sophomore from learning new skills, developing Port Huron said, “Clubs are positive multiple skill sets and helping to because of the social aspect and the look for employment. An example ability to make new friends.” of a multiple skill set is having the A full list of clubs can be found at ability to speak multiple languages. sc4.edu/Clubs-and-Organizations. Clubs are also a good way to
Phi Theta Kappa advisor Angela Heiden and Phi Theta Kappa President, now Vice President of Membership Rebecca Roehrer April 19, 2013. Photo by Liz Whittemore.
Staff we forgot about in the first issue Alex Olson is a freshman at SC4 pursuing an associate degree in journalism and one of the Erie Square Gazette’s newest staffers. A recent graduate of Port Huron High, Olson’s interests include reading and playing video games, a favorite of his being the Mass Effect series, which is represented by a “renegade” icon found in the game tattooed onto his neck. His free time is spent hanging out with friends and hunting ghosts, the latter being a pursuit that he says he does out more out of skepticism rather than belief. But what Olson really wants to do is write. Olson’s dream is to one day write a mix of horror, sci-fi, and thriller novels. He takes his inspiration from authors such as Steven King, and hopes to one day carve his own trail in the fiction world. That ambition, alongside a healthy sense of realism regarding fiction writer’s salaries, is what brought him to the Erie Square Gazette, where Olson hopes to hone his talents as a writer. - Erick Fredendall
Angie Stoecklin is a 23-year-old college student who was born in Columbus Township. She graduated from St. Clair High School and decided in the winter of 2013 to follow her passion and major in journalism. By working on the Erie Square Gazette, she ultimately wants to master her skills in journalism. Her hobbies include writing, biking and drawing. She also loves music, especially the rock classics. She considers herself a geek, and absolutely loves Pokémon. - Janelle Kalaf
Jennifer Gibson; Yes like the guitar. Marysville resident Jennifer Gibson is pursuing a degree in journalism at SC4, as well as a fresh face to the Erie Square Gazette. Gibson is eager to write prose on entertainment and the hard hitting news that hits the students. Freshly turned 39, Gibson has a passion for music and writing. With a psychological thriller novel already under her belt, Gibson is a reporter students should keep their eye on. Gibson intends to keep you well informed about happenings in the area, while keeping it light. She quotes her daughter, [speaking of Jennifer] that she “...has an opinion on everything.” - Rebecca Kelly
5
Pre-Med or Liberal Arts?
Kristopher Reynolds Staff Writer
Campus
fields. These positions boast a Now for the good part: the bottom relatively low unemployment rate three. At the top of the waste pile (below a 1% average) and profits sits Philosophy. With income sitting “What do you want to be when you of over $110,000. An easy second around the $50,000 mark, this grow up?” choice. Last on the throne of one doesn’t seem like it would be Now, as a young kid, this is riches, this spot goes to Computer/ that bad. Let’s look deeper. The one of the most easily answered Information Systems degrees (NOT unemployment rate of this degree questions one can be asked. The graphic design or for that matter varies depending on the source answers generally tend to be quite any aesthetic design branch). With (often due to sympathetically driven creative: fireman, princess, rockstar, profits floating around the $95,000 biases), but it is generally between marine biologist (some kids are mark for established personnel, 15-30%. There are very few jobs intellectually ahead of others). and having the highest influx of awaiting these degree holders. However, this simple interrogative newly created positions, this degree Next is Anthropology. The degree seems to take on a monumental provides an ample amount of job shares much of the same stats and new weight when asked to incoming security and comfortable income. problems as Philosophy, having very college freshman. With hundreds upon thousands of different degrees, certificates, and programs out there, it is hard to know where to start. The choice becomes even harder when you start considering one of the most evil, manipulative, and important concepts that get silently attached to the question: money. Talk about a headache. But organizations such as Forbes, Daily Finance, and Time Magazine (sources of where this information was accumulated, sorted, and processed) believe they can at least give those indecisive students a point in the right direction. Let’s look at the top three and bottom three profitable college career paths. For the top, engineering sits upon the throne, specifically biomedical engineering. With an almost nonexistent unemployment rate for degree holders, and a well over $115,000 profit-a-year margin for established persons in the field, it’s easy to see where this is an easy choice. Second place goes to any Doctorate Medical program; this encompasses things such as Oncology, Anesthesiology, various “Money Talks.” Portrait by Kristopher Reynolds. surgeon positions, and other related
few available jobs. Last but not least, the single least profitable and desirable career path: Liberal Arts. More specifically, Art History. Boasting an over 30% unemployment rate with profits below the $35,000 mark and almost no available jobs, it’s easy to see why this is considered the bottom of the barrel. Another very good question, and likely a cause to its low profit desirability margin: what exactly does one do with this degree? That is a question best left to another day.
6
Campus Scholarships offered through SC4 website Angie Stoecklin Staff Writer
It is no secret that college is expensive. But a number of financial awards exist to help students achieve their dream of a higher education. Upon visiting the SC4‘s website scholarship section, students will first notice a list of scholarships that are offered through SC4 itself. The financial awards offered come with minimum requirements. Most call for at least a 2.5 GPA, and many of them require involvement in college sports while others are more geared towards students entering a specific field. As an example, the Bezenah Memorial Scholarship is only offered to Criminal Justice majors with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Despite the
specifics of some of the scholarships, it is likely that almost any student could find one that applies to them. To apply for the scholarships, a student must set up an account on the site that includes his/her name, address, major, and an uploaded resume. After filling out the required sections, students can browse the scholarships offered through SC4 or click on the drop down arrow at the top of the page that says “Opportunities,” and then click “External” links. If a student cannot find a scholarship that applies to them offered through SC4, it is in the external links. Scholarships offered through the federal government and other collegiate entities can be found on the external listing. To begin browsing through the list of available scholarships, visit sc4. edu/money.
SC4 pushing for further success of its students Angie Stoecklin Staff Writer
Members of the board, with the exception of James Relken, gathered at the last board of trustees meeting held on Sept. 12. Topics discussed included the success of the CL5 and Blue Water Middle College programs and the possibility of a non-smoking campus. An overview of the Michigan Center for Student Success was also discussed. The CL5 and Blue Water Middle College programs both are high school dual enrollment programs. They allow for high school students to start college early and become familiar with the college experience. The success of both the programs led to the board to conclude that they are here to stay. Last year, CL5 students earned 1,600 credits, and 77% of them were the first in their family to go to college. The Blue Water Middle College program has yielded 2,071 total earned credits by the students in the program. The number of students enrolled has increased dramatically since the program first partnered with SC4 in 2011. “15% of students enrolled in SC4 are a part of one of the high school programs; it looks like it may grow to 20% by next year,” said SC4 President Dr. Kevin Pollock. The success of the high school programs supports the fact that the college’s main priority is the success
of its students, which is why SC4 is involved in a program called the Michigan Center for Student Success. According to the executive director of the program, Chris Baldwin, the Center’s objective is to work with the staff and faculty of Michigan’s community colleges to ensure success of the students, and that their completion of college will lead them to a successful career in their field of choice. “While the students are the beneficiaries, our work is with the faculty,” said Baldwin. Although most students are unaware of the program, its existence is further proof that SC4 is doing a number of things to help students complete their degree. The well-being and success of SC4 students has been the main focus of the board which is why the possibility of a non-smoking campus was also addressed. Staff member Melanie Gofton pushed for the non-smoking campus in her argument for the rule to be passed. “Every time I exit a building, there seems to be a cloud of smoke,” said Gofton. Although her point seemed to reach the board, the final decision was pushed to be addressed at the next meeting. Chris Baldwin believes that SC4 is doing its part in ensuring the success of its students. “Sc4 is in a good place, they are ahead of the game in that they are doing a number of things to help students succeed.”
Ready to take the next step? Come see why Wayne State University attracts so many of the region’s brightest transfer students. A nationally recognized research university in the city’s coolest neighborhood, Wayne State is alive with possibilities. You can choose from hundreds of academic programs and prepare for careers in the market’s most rewarding fields — including the health sciences, engineering, education and business. Apply for free at apply.wayne.edu.
AIM HIGHER
Entertainment Rockstar’s open world epic pushes the envelope, again. G.T.A. V review
Nicholas Wedyke Managing Editor
8
that you can switch to and from committing a heist, I can see the IOS, which accompanies the game at any time in the game, a first for robbery from every angle, do every through a cloud server. In the app the G.T.A. series. This feature was job that needs to be done and see I can customize a car and have it Rockstar Games takes a a home run for the series, bringing how each character perceives the act delivered to my in-game garage after newfangled approach on the familiar added depth to a game already at that they are doing. a few in-game days, the app offers a third-person, crime-driven, action 20,000 leagues under. The game play itself only scratches way to train one of the character’s game Grand Theft Auto, with the Myself, being used to a single the surface though, Los Santos is its dogs as well, in a sort of pocket pet newest installment, Grand Theft protagonist this change to three own world, where you can accept simulator. Auto V. separate characters was difficult bounty hunting missions, trade Overall, the game succeeds on After playing the game I found to comprehend, but the game stocks in dozens of companies, order many levels, and is a rewarding that it was truly not like anything intertwines the stories between the cars, boats, or planes online and experience that will leave players I had played before, I couldn’t just three very well. even have a pet. satisfied with the investment they sit down for a few minutes and One area where this particular Along with the game I downloaded have made. play a mission or two, I had to play feature shines is bank heists. While Rockstar’s “iFruit” application on for hours on end, play every side mission and activity I could find, I even played a round of golf. Sure G.T.A. has bugs, but the next update will surly mend most of these, and it’s extremely graphic and offensive but when you buy a game named after a felony I think that should be expected. My verdict is buy it. For $60 I got so many hours out of this game, and on Oct. 1 the online multiplayer capability will be released, opening up endless hours of new experiences and game-play. All the pieces of a true G.T.A. game are here, the vast open world to explore, the blatant mimicry of American culture, and of course, the power to do almost anything the player wants. But G.T.A. V builds on the formula established by previous Rockstar Games titles by offering more customization, more storyline to follow and even the game’s own app. G.T.A. V takes place in the city of Los Santos, Rockstar’s version of Los Angeles, where the story starts to follow three separate protagonists Photo used under a Creative Commons license. Photo credit: Andrew Willard.
9
Entertainment
Energy drinks: worth The saltiest of bets the risk? Zack Penzien Production Editor
ridiculously overpowered and some are just broken. “I keep going back because I’ve lost quite a bit of my precious it’s addicting. I like seeing what spare time to a website called Salty fictional characters will beat up Bet. what fictional characters,” said SC4 It started by me observing several student Nicholas Rwauters. of my friends around campus yelling In Mugen, the artificial intelligence at their computer screens in a way I running the fighters is not always usually equate to sports fans. the best. It’s funny, for reasons I Usually watching computer can’t quite explain. It is hilarious to controlled fighting games is nothing me to see Homer Simpson and Sailor to write home about but the game Jupiter from Sailor Moon run at each itself is the interesting part. other, jump past one another, and Salty Bet is a website that streams punching the opposite wall until Photo Credit: Alex Olson. computer controlled matches of a time runs out. Alex Olson without energy drinks, would not fighting game engine called Mugen What keeps me coming back is Staff Writer exist. They help boost my mood and and lets you bet points, known as the “bets” part. First off you make motivate me.” However, Gardner “Salty Bucks,” on the fighters. a free account, and are given 400 Energy drinks. To many students, did cite a few side effects, including The game engine uses user Salty Bucks, which you then bet on they are an ally, a friend, a hero even. minor shaking and twitches of his generated characters, so it goes the character you think most likely They can get a student through a hands. without saying that pretty much to win. Since real money is never three hour night class, or through I myself have taken energy pills, every characters from every fighting exchanged on the site, you never an extra hour of studying. But is it shots, drinks, and even those strip game are accounted for, including run out of Salty Bucks because worth the risk? things that you stick on your tongue. some made in MS paint and other after you hit zero you get 50 more On the back of each Amp, Monster, I’ve had nosebleeds from excessive weird color pallet swaps. automatically. Rockstar or Red Bull, there is a energy drink use, rapid heartbeat, The characters are also Now if you will excuse me I have warning label. It’s small, hard to see, occurrences of tunnel vision, programmed by the community to go watch Spiderman beat up but it’s there. And it normally reads flushed skin, headaches and nausea. so there are some pretty faithful Megazord from Power Rangers. something like; “Not recommended Various medical professionals have recreations. Some characters are for individuals under 18 years of described similar symptoms in age, or those sensitive to caffeine. articles on websites such as WebMD, Limit caffeine intake to 400 and Medical Daily. They also milligrams per day.” mention the worse long term effects, One 16 ounce Full Throttle energy prolonged use can lead to cardiac drink contains 200 milligrams, arrest, diabetes and insomnia. one 16 ounce Amp contains 142 But the key word is always milligrams, and a 16 ounce Monster “excessive.” contains 160 milligrams. So, if you Drinking seven Monsters in a day, drink two of these drinks you’re that’s asking for trouble. Taking six pushing the recommended limit for or so 5-hour Energy shots is just caffeine intake. The consumer needs ridiculous. Just like alcohol or any to monitor how they are feeling after substance, the user needs to know they drink one. his or her limits. If you have a heart Matthew Gardner, a freshman condition, don’t drink caffeine filled here at SC4 said, “I drink around 20 drinks. The consumer needs to take energy drinks a month. They help action and react responsibly. Photo Credit: Zack Penzien me maintain a level of focus that,
10
Entertainment Heroes, or maybe zeroes, of Cosplay Jenelle Kalaf Staff Writer
Reality shows usually never call the geek culture to the stage. One has to ask what the geeks are doing with their time anymore. Reading, playing video games and watching anime are some of the few hobbies that geeks enjoy. Oh, they like cosplaying too, but that won’t ever get popular, right? “Heroes of Cosplay” is a reality television show, broadcasted by SyFy, which breaks the norm. It follows a group of competing cosplayers as they create costumes in ridiculously short amounts of time and enter them into contest at conventions around the country. The community had very mixed feelings on cosplay getting this much attention. Cosplay, for those who do not know, is a combination of the words “costume” and “play.” The whole idea behind it is to create or buy a costume and “play” or act out the character. It is like role playing, but a lot more expansive. There are people in the world who make a living off of cosplaying. Some do this by making guest appearances to conventions, and some by winning cosplay competitions. This is where our cast of “Heroes of Cosplay”. Some of the cast members are Yaya Han, international cosplay star, Chloe Dykstra, model and actress, and Jessica Merizan and Holly Conrad, founders of Crabcat Industries, a costume fabrication shop. These Heroes create fabulous costume, draw up drama, and somehow always learn their lessons at the end of each competition.
Photo By Richard Cabrera under a creative commons licence.
Most would think that cosplayers around the world would be happy their hobby, they spend thousands of dollars and hours on, would make into mainstream television but most started the first episode with a closed mind. After all, they spent time and money on their hobby, so they are a little over protective. “Heroes of Cosplay” is a reality television show, thus, they’re will be drama. There is drama in real life, but most cosplayers try to be civil with one another. It is a community presence, so no one usually tries to hurt one another. Most cosplayers will stress that the hobby is about fun and showing off what you love. As a cosplayer myself, I agree completely. But what really gets underneath of the skin of all geeks that watch this show, not just cosplayers, is that it makes the community seem cold, which could not be farther from the truth. This did cause a problem for the first episode, but most of the fans calmed down. As a reality show, it stands to be your average “let’s start fights and talk behind the other girl’s back” type of show. The costumes and craftsmanship is outstanding. The show also has a high production value, so the cheesiness is not as apparent. Nothing too extreme, just another show that will fade off once the run time is up. Yes, this is an interesting show, and it introduces a subculture most viewers have never heard of, but it also is not a show stopper. If you want to see what the awesome costumes are, a quick Google search will keep you clued in. If you do get into the show, do not expect much out of the whole experience.
11
Entertainment
Who is in control: the mind or the man? Monica Stiles Staff Writer
movies out of their small town community. When Stone and his wife Alma’s, played by Kayla SC4’s Drama Club recently held a Flanagan, son Clayton, played by showing of “The Mind with the Dirty Patrick Willis, returns to their small Man,” by Jules Tasca. town to take over the local movie Small town leader Wayne Stone house to exhibit his x-rated movies, played by Justin Rutherford is the bringing along his wife Divina, head of the local film review board. played by Katie Weatherly, hilarity He and his uptight colleagues: ensued. Lucrecia played by Jessica Fye, This play directed by Dan Williams Dianne played by Lizzy George and was thoroughly entertaining and Father Jerome played by Christian enjoyable. I must say that the cast Michael Jones; live to keep smutty had an amazing sense of connection
and chemistry on stage that really made the whole production that much better (if possible). The flow throughout the scenes and the laid back, welcoming vibe you received from the production, cast and crew made anyone of any age feel comfortable. The audience seems to truly be enjoying themselves. There were not many moments during the show where there wasn’t laughter echoing off the surrounding walls. “I enjoyed every bit of the show. The chemistry between the cast
Clayton leading a wine-happy Alma to the couch. Photo taken by Monica Stiles.
was on point and the show was electric. Every cast member seemed enraptured by their role and really seemed to be enjoying their time on stage. I had a great time,” said audience member, Megan Beals. Unfortunately, the production was not shown for one night, but I would highly suggest going to see any future productions put on here at SC4.
Entertainment
12
NetFlix listens to the pirates
Video-streaming site Netflix uses data from torrent websites when buying licenses for TV shows.
Nicholas Wedyke Managing Editor Netflix, the online video-streaming service, upon the release of service in the Netherlands, announces that it uses data collected from pirate sites to collect shows to host on its website. The subscription based website is seen as one of the most prominent competitors of piracy. When a show is highly downloaded without permission, Netflix collects that data and uses it when licensing TV shows and movies to stream online. “With the purchase of a series, we
P.C. Seth Anderson. Photo used under a Creative Commons license.
look at what does well on piracy sites.” Kelly Merryman, Vice President of content acquisition at Netflix, told the website Tweakers a Netherland news outlet. According to Businessweek.com, the amount of piracy even lowers in areas that Netflix is offered. Netflix launched in Canada in 2010 and Canadian torrenting through the website BitTorrent has gone down by 50% since then, according to Netflix CEO Reed Hastings. One reason is that Netflix is simply a better user experience when compared to torrenting single or whole seasons
of shows. With a $7.99 a month price point, Netflix’s offer is a true pirating alternative. Hastings states in an interview with the website TorrentFreak. “Netflix is so much easier than torrenting. You don’t have to deal with files, you don’t have to download them and move them around. You just click and watch.” Some shows are simply out of reach for Netflix though. HBO’s “Game of Thrones” was the most pirated TV show of 2012, Time Warner’s Chief Executive; Jeffery Bewkes describes that as “better than an Emmy.” But
HBO won’t license the series to Netflix, no matter what is offered, according to Businessweek.com. With shows like “Game of Thrones” being completely un-licensable by Netflix, the company can only set goals for other network’s popular shows to license or creating original content to stream, such as the Netflix originals “House of Cards” or “Orange is the new Black.” The addition of popular series, blockbuster movies, as well as fresh new originals, Netflix is hoping to sway the torrent hungry internet into an easier, more legal alternative.
13
Tribute Twana memorial donations
Those looking to donate to Twana Pinskey’s funeral arrangements may do so at a local Chase bank. A Twana Pinskey Fund has been established by SC4 professor Suzanne Moore O’Brien. Donations will also be accepted at Rewalt Funeral Home. Checks can be sent to the funeral home’s address, which is 68655 Stoecker Lane, Richmond, MI.
I first met Twana in Fall of 2009. I was in the final stages of working on my Master’s Essay at Wayne State and I was visiting John Lusk, my old English professor, for help. On that particular day, he was having his newswriting students come by to speak about their work for the semester. As we were going over my essay, Twana walked in and we were introduced. As a former editor-in-chief of the Erie Square Gazette, she seemed very happy to meet me. I was only too happy to return the sentiment to her. She was working on the newspaper as well and I always loved knowing that the newspaper I left had such enthusiastic people around to keep the publication going. When I became an instructor here at SC4 only weeks after this, I was nervous. I knew in order to get over my nerves, I should visit the ESG offices in hopes that maybe Twana would be there. Sure enough, she was, and like the mother she always will be, assembled a group to go for lunch. We had a lovely chat and it made those first semester nerves cool down. As the semester went on she began to express more and more interest in becoming the editor-in-chief. She frequently expressed her doubts to me, as if she ever had something to worry about. I don’t want to put the spotlight on me, but knowing many former editors-in-chief of the Erie Square Gazette, I felt that Twana would do the position proud. My faith was rewarded. She did her job like nobody else could. Twana was also one of the most ardent supporters of the club I advise, the Zombie Defense Council. She would always cheer our events on and try to team up with us. When we have the chance, our bake sales will have elaborate cakes for people to bid on. It might be better to say that we had cakes for Twana to bid on, as I can hardly think of a time she did not take home one of our cakes. The only time I ever knew Twana to miss a class was because an elevator was out of order. She was unable to walk up the stairs to get to her class. Between her classes, running the newspaper, and her own show on our own WSGR, Twana was one of the hardest working and most active students I have ever known. Her pride showed in her work and her compassion for her fellow students is unrivaled. She will be missed. Brian Penn
Photo By Jenny Walker
Whilst scouring my hard drives for any and every mention of the ray of light that was Twana Pinskey, something happened. The first result returned for her name, was a file titled “SC4 mourns loss of one of our own”. It was a tribute, much like this one that she had wrote when our community lost another valued friend, classmate, and colleague. It struck me as somewhat appropriate, that the first thing that the archives would tell you about Twana, is how much she cared for her peers. As editor-in-chief, she made sure that tribute got front page placement and one of our largest runs of our time together, because we needed to be reminded every now and again, of just how precious our time really is. And that is one lesson I’ll never forget. One paragraph is not even enough to scratch the surface of the beautiful example of humanity that was Twana Pinskey. She enriched lives, brought happiness and light to everyone she met, and strove for greatness in her every endeavor; be it her honors activities, her award winning writing, or her charitable causes. She was fierce, dedicated and loyal, and above all else; loving. Thank you Twana for all you’ve given, it has been an honor and a privilege, and you shall never be forgotten. - Cody Kimball, former Webmaster.
Photo By Christina Stoutenburg
14
Tribute
I first met Twana in Fall of 2009. I was in the final stages of working on my Master’s Essay at Wayne State and I was visiting John Lusk, my old English professor, for help. On that particular day, he was having his newswriting students come by to speak about their work for the semester. As we were going over my essay, Twana walked in and we were introduced. As a former editor-in-chief of the Erie Square Gazette, she seemed very happy to meet me. I was only too happy to return the sentiment to her. She was working on the newspaper as well and I always love knowing that the newspaper I left had such enthusiastic people around to keep the publication going. When I became an instructor here at SC4 only weeks after this, I was nervous. I knew in order to get over my nerves, I should visit the ESG offices in hopes that maybe Twana would be there. Sure enough, she was, and like the mother she always will be, assembled a group to go for lunch. We had a lovely chat and it made those first semester nerves cool down. As the semester went on she began to express more and more interest in becoming the editor-in-chief. She frequently expressed her doubts to me, as if she ever had something to worry about. I don’t want to put the spotlight on me, but knowing many former editors-in-chief of the Erie Square Gazette, I felt that Twana would do the position proud. My faith was rewarded. She did her job like nobody else could. Twana was also one of the most ardent supporters of the club I advise, the Zombie Defense Council. She would always cheer our events on and try to team up with us. When we have the chance, our bake sales will have elaborate cakes for people to bid on. It might be better to say that we had cakes for Twana to bid on, as I can hardly think of a time she did not take home one of our cakes. The only time I ever knew Twana to miss a class was because an elevator was out of order. She was unable to walk up the stairs to get to her class. Between her classes, running the newspaper, and her own show on our own WSGR, Twana was one of the hardest working and most active students I have ever known. Her pride showed in her work and her compassion for her fellow students is unrivaled. She will be missed. -Bob Kroll
Photo By Liz Whiittemore
I’ll always remember Twana for her kindness. The concept of strangers was foreign to her. She treated everyone like they were old friends. She was ambitious, independent, and always opinionated. Even when she disagreed with the entire group, no one ever lost respect for her. Twana was one of the most talented writers at the ESG, and will be sorely missed. Not only for her talent, but for the personality we all came to know so well. -Garrett Summerville
Twana Pinskey; where to start well at the beginning I guess. I met Twana four years ago while we both where achieving our dream to get a college degree, I fell into a position at the ESG college paper as the production editor and she was the photo editor, we found out that both of us had a love for taking pictures and that’s how our friendship began. Twana was full of life wanting to achieve her dream to be the best at everything she touched. With a positive attitude, she moved ahead, became the editor-in- chief of the paper, and pushed the envelope at every chance she could. Twana ran the paper with an iron fist, for two years, circulation improved; she was a mentor to some and a foe to others. Twana will be best remembered for her “Pet of the Issue“ featuring adoptable animals from shelters. The best of my recollection of Twana was her laugh, zest for life, love for her grandchildren and children in general, love of her family, very strong religious beliefs and the rights to bare arms. To me she was compassionate, loving, and a friend. Twana Pinskey you will be dearly missed -J enny Walker Twana Pinskey truly was unique. Twana possessed a will of steel that could only be tempered by the kind heart that beat within her chest. She was a woman who could preach about church and good deeds one moment, and in the next breath be talking about the zombie apocalypse or her vast gun collection. While I never got to see her take aim with said guns, I got to see her in action with one of her other important tools, her camera. We often worked in the field together, and I envied that woman’s skills. There was no photographer I would have rather had at my back. I am proud to have to served beside Twana on the Erie Square Gazette, and even prouder to have called her friend. -Danny Kenndy
Photo By Danny Kennedy
Twana Rose Pinskey was the first person that I met on the Erie Square Gazette staff. She was always very kind and helpful. I was scared and nervous when I first started at the paper. She helped me through it with her knowledge of the newspaper and the kindness of her heart. She always had a smile on her face and a kind word for everyone. She had strong opinions which reflected her strong personality. I will never forget her and appreciate her kindness. She will be truly missed by many. -Mairead Warner
15
Editorial
The second screen
Console to hand-held connectivity taking strides in modern gaming
Nicholas Wedyke Managing Editor
For me it all started with the Dreamcast. That beautiful white brick, accompanied by the console’s VMU (visual memory unit) allowed me to play mini-games on a small second screen that would affect things in the console version of the game, most notably the Sonic Adventure Chao mini-games. This type of second screen
capability is making a comeback and may become a norm in future video games development. Systems such as the Wii U already have this second screen sold along with the console. The Wii U comes with a tablet-controller hybrid called the Wii U gamepad that can be used to play the game or show things such as a player’s inventory and other stats. Another example is the connection between the Playstation 3 console and the PlayStation Vita hand-
held system. These two have to be bought separately but to some gamers the access to the Sony “Cross-play” feature may be worth it. Sony “Cross-play” allows players to pause a game on either device and resume it on the other, though this feature has not been fully embraced yet it is a promising look into the future for Sony. Lastly is Smartglass, an application for tablets and smart phones that is used for connectivity between an Xbox and a player’s smart phone
or tablet. The app displays helpful tools on the hand-held device that can aid in the console version of the games. All these ways to connect from console to hand-held are just in the infant stages of what is to come; with the increase in gamers with smart phones over the last few years, it isn’t outrageous at all to think that the next generation of consoles could allow every game to feature this connectivity.
The word of the people, for the people
There are only five outlined public posting areas in the student handbook. All five of these public posting While universities seem to be areas hold a significantly smaller littered with advertisements and relevance to the campus life, as they postings about local events and are set out of sight and out of mind. other extracurricular activities, it It was unknown to me that the has come to my attention recently college even designated spots for that this community college campus community postings until I decided is not. to delve into the subject. As I was posting what I thought According to Martha K. was a harmless advertisement for Pennington, Marketing Coordinator my bands upcoming performance at SC4, “the rules regarding postings throughout campus, I discovered are in the college catalog, which are that the written restriction of located on page 189.” advertisements and postings at SC4 It is stated in the catalog that are rather vague. ‘internal postings must be proofread It seems that there are over 25 by an appropriate supervisor’ and different areas that are post worthy that school unrelated postings around campus – but those are ‘may only be posted on the bulletin only available to the school related boards labeled Student/Community activities. Postings’. As I tried to find out what areas The problem I stumbled upon is were ‘acceptable’ to post community that the community posting boards related announcements, I discovered are not in places where students are something surprising. found. Brendan Buffa Sports Editor
Photo Credit Brendan Buffa
Where there is foot traffic, there should be community postings visible by an audience. You cannot post on any surface, student vehicles, nor can you even hand out a flyer or handbill on campus. The word of the people cannot reach the people when the distribution method is restricted, limited, and censored. Having a posting board in a more relative area (i.e. College
Center) would be more sufficient than having a hidden board in 5 spots through an extensively large campus. The point is, look further than your own college campus when you want to inform the people with community activities. The growth and thriving of a community is important, and it cannot happen when the voice of that community is restricted and hidden from the eye of the people.
Sports Showdown for the Skippers Brendan Buffa Sports Editor
16
ladies find inspiration in one The Skippers meet Oakland CC one Included in the match ups for the another, as they are currently more time on the hardwood on Oct. Grand Rapids Raiders Invitational second in the MCCAA Eastern 3 at 7 p.m. are Kalamazoo Valley, Lansing, On the weekend of Sept. 13-14, Conference. The Skippers are headed to Grand Cincinnati State Tech and Grand the Skippers had a seven straight Sitting in first place is the Oakland Rapids on Sept. 28 for a weekend Rapids CC. win streak under their belt that sent CC Raiders, who have only lost one long tournament against a vast array them to the championship round game in their season at 13-1. of teams. against Sinclair CC. From what was the result of botched calls and questionable refereeing–the Skippers were sent home packing their bags with a loss. Returning home on Sept. 17 to play on their home court was a relief in the eyes of the girls, as they stepped up to face conference rivals, the Schoolcraft Ocelots. The quick paced match ended in three games (25-17, 25-11, 25-23), as a fierce punishment was brought upon the Ocelots. With a well-deserved home opener win and a dominant defense, the Skippers stayed home to play another conference rival, the Macomb Monarchs. With a match that seemingly went back and forth, the Skippers yet again came out on top (25-23, 2517, 25-15). Rachel Cooper and Katie Bearse, both captains of the 2013 Skippers, collectively brought the team together in the eyes of the coaches. They both were awarded the game ball deservingly as they controlled the net and kept the Monarchs under 20 in two of the three games. The Skippers have a limited chance to impress their home crowd this year, with only four games being played on their court. Finding themselves on the road frequently puts the ladies in a tough spot with a short supply of hometown supporters. “Showdown for the Skippers” – photo captionBrendan Buffa Although they have it hard, the
17
Community
The Storm of 1913 visits the Port Huron Museum Emily Mainguy Copy Editor
This November, there is a centennial anniversary of the Storm of 1913, which is one of the worst storms that the Great Lakes have ever seen, and it occurred in the Port Huron Area. The Port Huron Museum has brought a new exhibit to the museum, “The Storm of 1913 Remembered” which will be on display until Jan. 14, 2014. This exhibit features nine different areas: 1913 Streetscape, Eye of the Storm Rotunda, The Charles Chambers, Follow the Fleet, The Regina, Pilot House, Our Story to Tell, The Unknown Sailors Memorial, and The Art of the Storm. These areas are spread throughout the museum and all focus on a different part of the history. “The last couple of years we have had a lot of science based programs, and we have kind of started to veer away from history. We thought this was a great opportunity to encompass both of them,” explained Katherine Bancroft, director of collections, education and exhibits. There is a part of the exhibit that is dedicated to teaching visitors the science of the storm, which is called Eye of the Storm Rotunda. When entering the exhibit, the first area is the 1913 Streetscape. Just before entering the rest of the exhibit, you take a trip through the telegraph office to begin the interactive portion of the tour. “You pick up a card and you find out who you are, where you are from, what ship you are on, and you can find clues throughout the exhibit to find out if you lived, or if you did not make it through the storm,” said Bancroft. After you receive your identity, you can visit the other stations, where you will learn facts about the ships, crew, storm, and the aftermath. The last station is on display on the second floor. “The Art of the Storm” is where art by local members of the Blue Water Art Association is displayed. The art was inspired by stories and photos of the storm that had been given to the artists. Admission for this event is $5 for students, however there are events happening every weekend that are free with admission.
Photo credit: Emily Mainguy
Photo credit: Emily Mainguy
18
Community Michigan Medicaid Expansion
to include childless and nondisabled Jennifer Gibson Staff Writer
Poverty Level. Basically, if you are in a one person family you may make up to $15,282/annually or $1273/monthly you still qualify for On Sept. 16, 2013, Michigan Medicaid. Governor, Rick Snyder, signed into The coverage offered under law HB 4717. This bill will provide the Medicaid expansion will Medicaid coverage to 320,000 be for primary care physicians, Michigan residents in its first year. preventative care, and check-ups. Due to the delay of getting the bill The individuals will choose a through the Senate and House, it will health plan which will offer coverage not take effect until January 2014. for prescriptions, family planning, According to the Michigan.gov and smoking cessation. website, the federal government The uninsured rate in Michigan will pay 100 percent of the costs will drop by 46 percent when the of the expansion for the years expansion takes effect. Not only will 2014-16, and decreasing their this create nearly 18,000 jobs in fiscal contribution from 95 percent Michigan, but it is anticipated there down to 90 percent of the costs will be over $1 billion in savings between 2017 and 2020. At this for the state of Michigan, as well as point, the cost to the recipients of an increase in the state’s economic the expansion is expected to be five activity by $2.1 billion, according percent of their annual income in to an email from Debra Johnson, the form of copays after the first executive director of St. Clair County year of enrollment. Community Mental Health. The Medicaid.gov website noted To apply for Medicaid simply go this is the first time Medicaid to Michgan.gov/dhs. The assistance coverage will be offered to adults application form is DHS 1171. between the ages of 19-64 who You may also visit St. Clair County do not have children and are not Community Mental Health at 3111 disabled. Electric Ave. in Port Huron, or the The income limits under the bill local DHS office located at 220 Fort are for those individuals who fall St. in Port Huron to pick-up an in the 133 percent of the Federal application.
SUBS SO
FAST
YOU’LL FREAK!
FREAKY FAST
DELIVERY! ©2011 JIMMY JOHN’S FRANCHISE, LLC ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
19
Comics