Volume 63.7
The
Erie Square Gazette A public forum by and for the students of St. Clair County Community College
Dead air
The discontinuation of the communications program
Brendan Buffa Sports Editor
December
12 2013
The holidays may take a stressful turn for the worse with the new program cuts at St. Clair County Community College. Students majoring in communications will notice that broadcasting and journalism are not in the fall 2013 program catalog. Although, don’t fret just yet, the
change may not be as bad as initially assumed. “In September of 2011, the process started to see the sustainability and viability of the programs,” said Denise McNeil, vice president on academic services. Specifically, the communications programs were labeled as a ‘program identified for improvement’ in 2011. A number that targeted the proTHE GREAT GATSBY>>>>>>pg 4
gram, according to McNeil, was the limited amount of graduating students in the field of communications. According to the Fall 2013 campus update given by the college president, an 8 year study revealed that an average of 22% of students enrolled yearly were in the communications program. “Over the past 5 years, only 12 students graduated in journalism,
and 9 in broadcasting. We don’t have a lot of students graduating in those programs.” The big question at hand is whether the students currently enrolled in the program will be able to receive a degree. “In a weird way they are grand fathered out,” says instructor of philosophy and english, Jim Soto, “No new students can come in, but Continued on page 2
REPORTER OF THE MONTH>pg 3
PET OF THE ISSUE>>>>>>>pg 7
FROZEN REVIEW>>>>>>>pg 13
COMICS>>>>>>>>>>>> pg 17
IN THIS ISSUE:
ART HOP>>>>>>>>>>>>pg 8
MIDDLE COLLEGE>>>>>>>pg 7
1
Calendar
Editor-in-Chief
Erick Fredendall Production Editor/Designer Zack Penzien 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 @esgonline
facebook.com/ESGonline youtube.com/user/ eriesquaregazette
Campus
Dec. 15 – Music: Holiday Bells and SC4 Choir – McMorran Theatre – 4-6p.m. Dec. 12 – SC4 Board of Trustees Meeting SC4 Symphonic Band and SC4 Jazz Band M-Tech Building -4:30p.m. Tickets $7 Adults, Free for students with Skippers OneCard, Free for k-12 when Dec. 12 – Short Play: (1965) St. accompanied by an adult. Stephen’s Demolished to Make way for New Library - 12p.m.-12:30p.m. Dec. 16 – Get up! Stand up! Open Mic College Center Atrium Stand-Up – Lynch’s Irish Tavern –10p.m. A short play exploring SC4’s history. Dec. 12- Concert: Jimmy Blues Trio (Thursday Noon and Night Concert Series) – Fine Arts Theatre Admission $5 – Noon and 7 p.m. Lunch with performers $10 Reservations Required
Dec. 18– Gay-Straight Alliance Bake Sale College Center Atrium – 10a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 19– Gay-Straight Alliance Bake Sale College Center Atrium – 10a.m.-2 p.m.
Dec. 24 through Jan. 1- College closed Jan. 2 - College reopens
Community Dec. 9 – Concert: International Symphony Orchestra Brass Quintet (Noon and Night Concert Series) SC4 Fine Arts Theatre – Noon and 7p.m.– Lunch with performers $10 Reservations Required.
Dec. 9 – Get up! Stand up! Open Mic Stand-Up - Lynch’s Irish Tavern – 10p.m. Dec. 13 – Karen Newman Concert with Feature Performance by SC4 President – McMorran Theatre 7:30 p.m. - 9:30p.m. – Tickets $32.05 Benefits SC4 Friends of the Arts.
Dec. 20 – Gasoline Gypsy – Old Town Hall Winery and Lexington Brewing Company – 6-9p.m. 5475 Main St, Lexington Dec. 20 - Open Mic Studio 1219 - 6-7:30p.m. - Free
Dec. 21 – Behind the Scenes Tour: “Building the 1913 Exhibit” – 1 p.m. Port Huron Museum Free with Museum Admission, $7 Adults, $5 Senior Citizens and Students Registration Requested.
Dec. 21 – Concert: “This is Christmas” Port Huron High Performing Arts Center 6:30p.m. Dec. 23 – Get up! Stand up! Open Mic Stand-Up – Lynch’s Irish Tavern – 10p.m Dec. 31 – New Year’s Eve Party Military Street Music Café – 9:30p.m. Tickets $10
Jan. 8 – SC4 Alumni Hockey Team vs. Port Huron High and Port Huron Northern Alumni – 7p.m.-9p.m. McMorran Place Arena - Admission $5 suggested donation per game. Jan. 17 - Open Mic Studio 1219 - 6-7:30p.m. - Free
Jan. 18–Feb. 27 – SC4 Spiral Gallery: Art for All – Studio 1219 – SC4 Alumnus Jason Stier will present this exploration through life and art.
Jan. 23 – Concert: International Symphony Orchestra Brass Quintet (Noon and Night Concert Series) SC4 Fine Arts Theatre – Noon and 7p.m. Lunch with performers $10 Reservations Required. Jan. 24-25 - Chilly Fest Downtown Port Huron For more on this event, porthuronrec.com/chillyfest/
Jan. 24 - Opening Reception for “The Best of the Best” - Studio 1219 - 6-8p.m. Open to the public
Sports
Men’s Basketball Dec 13 – Lake Michigan College(7p.m.) Dec 19 – Lakeland CC (8 p.m.) Jan 4– Alpena CC* (7:30 p.m.) Jan 8 – Wayne County CCD* (7:30 p.m.) Jan 11 – Oakland CC* (3 p.m.) Jan 15 – Mott CC* (7:30 p.m.) Jan 18 – Delta College* (3 p.m.) Jan 20 – Schoolcraft College*(7:30p.m.) Jan 22 – Henry Ford CC* (7:30 p.m.) Jan 25 – Macomb CC* (3 p.m.) Jan 29– Kirtland CC* (7:30 p.m.) Women’s Basketball Dec 14 – Grand Rapids CC ( 4 p.m.) Dec 19 – Lakeland College (6 p.m.) Jan 4 – Alpena CC* (5:30 p.m.) Jan 8 – Wayne County CCD* (5:30 p.m.) Jan 11 – Oakland CC* (1 p.m.) Jan 15 – Mott CC* (5:30 p.m.) Jan 18 – Delta College* (1 p.m.) Jan 20– Schoolcraft College*(5:30p.m.) Jan 22 – Henry Ford CC* (5:30 p.m.) Jan 25 – Macomb CC* (1 p.m.) Jan 29 – Kirtland CC* (5:30 p.m.) (bold denotes home games) *denotes MCCAA Eastern Conference game
2 Dead air: continued from front page those involved in the program currently will be able to finish. As the catalog changes for the next year, no new students will be allowed to come in.” Rest assured students, SC4 graciously offers a safety net for those at risk. “We will be working with students and we are trying to be proactive,” McNeil reiterated, “We will make sure students graduate and we will come through on our end of the deal.” The final issue encountered with the discontinuation of the communications programs is the future of the college radio station, 91.3 WSGR, and the college news publication, The Erie Square Gazette. John Lusk, the adviser of The Erie Square Gazette reassures students that the classes will still be offered;
Mal Lynch Sophomore - Nursing “The amount of people that go for broadcasting is a big number, so yeah, I think it’ll affect the school enrollment number.”
yet the budget will be something of slight concern. “We will be monitoring the budget, and make sure that we still see what we see now - and that is funding for those classes.” McNeil confirms the contrary, “No funding cuts. No, not at all.” The discontinuation of the program still doesn’t fly right with the program director of 91.3 WSGR, Vaux Adams. “Around 22% of students that come to this school are for communications. That’s a pretty big chunk,” said Adams, “If they are going to save the classes, good, but we will transfer out in the end.” Although thoroughly upset, Adams says that the school is still justified in the decision. “I’m not going to be angry at the administration for trying to make
Dayna Spaulding Sophomore – Business “With the limited amount of people graduating, yeah, the school is justified in cutting the program. It’s not the only program bringing people in, and you don’t hear about a lot of people majoring in broadcasting.”
the college better, but I am angry that they gave up on the program.” Not only was the Communications Media program in journalism and broadcasting discontinued, several other programs took a slice on the chopping block, including; Architectural Design, Green Building, Greenhouse Management, Robotics/Automation Technology (merged with Mechatronics), Horticulture, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), Fabrication and Design, Facility and Energy Management and Fresh Water Biology. As the programs like, but not limited to, communications comes to a close, students will look elsewhere to obtain a degree in the appropriate field. “Shutting this down saddens me because kids like me can’t go here for that program anymore,” said Ad-
Celena Comerio Sophomore – Business “I think it will deter people from coming here and they will have to travel for the program they are looking for. If any of my programs got cut, I’d be upset, so I can sympathize.”
Vaux Adams Sophomore – Communications “Everyone is literally pissed off, even though those currently enrolled can finish, they are mad about it. We are passionate about it and this is what we want to do with our life.”
ams, “We communications students are all done now.” Adams summed it up best when he stated, “The faith that comes with this program, although the following is limited, the passion is what makes this program go.” Students will have to look to the horizon as they pursue their dreams in broadcasting and journalism, but the discontinuation will not have an effect on enrollment according to McNeil. “When the dust settles, if people are listening and hear what we are talking about, they will see that there will be no impact on transferability of these courses,” reassures McNeil, “they will always transfer and there will not be any change.” Contact Brendan at brendan.buff@ yahoo.com.
Hannah Hunter Freshman Communications “Do they have a replacement? They still shouldn’t cut it, that’s something they should offer - especially being a community college.”
3 Reporter of the Month Erick Fredendall Editor-in-Chief
Reporter of the Month is an award given to a staff writer of the Erie Square Gazette for journalistic excellence or above and beyond assistance given to help the Gazette in its mission to produce a quality publication for the students of SC4. Staff writers are chosen by vote from the editorial team. Another unanimous vote was cast from the editorial team for December’s Reporter of the Month
and we are pleased to announce the final recipient of the recognition for the fall semester, Jennifer Gibson. Jennifer came to us at the beginning of the semester and has already made an impression within the Erie Square Gazette newsroom as an excellent writer. Her commentary in editorials and her news articles were well developed and full of information. She always made herself available for the editors when they had a question during the editing process. Jennifer recently announced in her point of view story in the current
Campus issue that journalism writing is not for her, but she has found her love for creative writing through her time in the journalism practicum. And while we at the Gazette are sad to see her go, we have nothing but good things to say about her talent as a writer and her knack for language. On behalf of the Erie Square Gazette staff, we’d like to thank Jennifer for the effort that she put into the publication. We wish her the best of luck with her creative writing and will be patiently waiting for the first novel.
Photo provided by: Jennifer Gibson
Need ad space? rie Square Gazette
ESGADVERTISING@GMAIL.COM
(810) 989-5786
4
Campus
Actors and audience go back to the 20’s
SC4 Players’ perform F. Scott Fitzgerald’s, ‘The Great Gatsby’ Angie Stoecklin Staff Writer
Photo credit Angie Stoecklin.
Elizabeth Wentzel as Daisy Buchanan during a flashback scene in SC4’s production of The Great Gatsby in SC4’s Fine Arts Theatre.
lines, they were getting it right from the beginning. They had so many ideas as we were talking about it, The SC4 Player’s performance they were really into the story, so of the Great Gatsby was met with that made my job that much easier.” many laughs, gasps, and overall Kephart said. audience approval on the weekend Gregory Garofalo, otherwise of December 5th. known as Jay Gatsby in the play, ‘The Great Gatsby’ takes place smiled widely as he reflected during the roaring 20’s in a upon the entire experience of the somewhat divided New York. The production. “The whole cast was main plot is that Jay Gatsby, who is very friendly and welcoming. I’ve madly in love with his former lover done many productions before and now married Daisy Buchanan, and it’s hard to find a very strong buys an extravagant house across cast, and people who fit their parts the water from Daisy in order to perfectly. Everyone played their be closer to her, in hopes that they characters wonderfully and were will cross path’s once again. When very dedicated.” Garofalo said. Gatsby befriends Daisy’s cousin An audience talkback followed Nick Carraway, he becomes the the show on Thursday, during catalyst that reunites the two lovers, which audience members were resulting in a dramatic chain of eager to raise their hands and events. congratulate the actors, as well as Nick Carraway, played by August theatre director Tom Kephart, on Smith, has been in a handful of a “fantastic production,” as said by SC4 plays. But he celebrated this audience member Holly Cook. role the most, since playing Nick Cook, who also attended SC4 Carraway is the biggest role he has Player‘s production of ‘An Evening had in theatre thus far. “It’s been of Shel Silverstien,’ was impressed incredible. This has been my escape with the actors‘ improvement. from the rest of the world. The love “You can see how the actors have and support I get from all these grown, they’ve gotten a little more actors, it’s amazing, I appreciate all comfortable on the stage, watching those who have come out to see this this you can see how they’ve production.” matured as actors.” Director Tom Kephart admitted that although there were a few Contact Angie at minor problems prior to production, angelastoecklin0814@gmail.com the actors enthusiasm, commitment and talent was not one of them. “I really never had a time where I was thinking that they aren’t going to get the character’s or remember their
5
Lifestyle
The season to start saving it $$$
Tips to help save you money during, and after, the holiday season Liz Whittemore Photo Editor
Marine City resident Danielle Lee and her boyfriend are budgeting in expectation of their Savings account balance the first child in March. morning of December 26: $0.00. “We put all of our priorities and At least that’s what it feels like. must-have’s first; wants always Holiday shopping sneaks up and come last,” said Lee. “We don’t eat can quickly exhaust your bank out often and mainly cook meals account if you’re not careful. Why at home to save a few bucks.” not try budgeting this season? Here are a few tips to survive Small expenses such as buying the holidays. coffee, eating out, or driving a lot Try giving a homemade gift can add up quickly. such as baking cookies or putting Instead of spending the usual together a photo book. These are $5 on an over-priced caramel low-cost gifts that still show you macchiato before heading to care but won’t break your bank. work, have your coffee and lunch Not the crafty type? Make a list at home. If possible, carpool with of who you are buying for and the a classmate or co-worker who maximum amount you’d like to shares the same schedule. spend, and then stick to it. If you
have an idea of what you’d like to get, use coupons and research the lowest prices. If you’re an online buyer, always look for any free shipping options. For those battling the in-store crowds; leave the credit cards at home and pay with cash. This will help avoid splurgeshopping. Does a family member or co-worker want, or need, an expensive item? Talk to other family members or staff and split the cost. For those with kids: are wish lists really necessary? Say you receive a large wish list from your child, most of which are on the expensive side. Not
Zebra Lounge & Bowl - O- Drome Lanes On the Black River—Downtown Port Huron
Fundraisers Birthday Parties Cosmic Bowling
Daily Lunch and Dinner Specials Monday & Wednesday Hamburger Special Friday All You Can Eat Fish & Chips Happy Hour Monday - Friday 3-6pm Free Wireless Internet 522 Quay St. 984-5006
Visit us at Facebook.com/thezebralounge Thezeeb.com
only does it take the genuine surprise away, it puts a lot of pressure on a parent to figure out how to make their child happy and “follow their list”. Kids generally appreciate things more when they earn it. Why not start an allowance? Save during Christmas, and all year round, by starting an allowance and teaching your child how to budget. But instead of handing out money weekly (or monthly), sit down with your child and talk to them about their short-term and long-term goals. Kids learn about money management from their parents and showing them how to budget earlier in life can help curb frivolous spending. Say your child wants a remote control car and the new Xbox. Combined these would cost well over $400, not including games for the Xbox. Set up glass jars labeled with their goals and contribute whatever dollar amount you and your child decide on every week that your child completes their chores. Not only do their chores get done, they have a daily reminder that they are working toward their goal. It’s a win, win. Contact Liz at lizphotosesg@ gmail.com
6
Community
Bringing Art to the People
December Art Hop brings artists and locals to downtown businesses
Emily Mainguy Copy Editor
Rose Norton sits at her photography display in Elite Feet.
Art Hop is an event that has been happening since 2012 according to the events website, The Blue Water Young bluewaterarthop.org. It is an event Professionals, along with 25 local that occurs monthly in which local artists and 20 downtown businesses area artists set up artwork in a teamed up for 2013’s last Art Hop downtown business for visitors to on Dec. 7. stroll around and see what Port
Huron offers. Many cities around Michigan host a similar event, such as Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids, many artists in our Hop have been participating all over Michigan for more than these two years. “I believe that it is important for people to discover the art that is happening in their town,” stated Frann Ramales, a chainmaille artist who was displaying her work in The Raven. “This is my first year doing Art Hop. I think it’s a great idea for local artists to meet the public,” stated Rose Norton, whose photography was on display in Elite Feet. Since Art Hop happens every year,
Photo by Emily Mainguy.
the Blue Water Young Professionals are still improving the event. “Next year we hope to add more live music in the streets so that there’s ‘art’ in the music form as well. We will be reaching out to the merchants and artists for any other suggestions to help keep the event fresh and fun,” explained Jackie Hanton, Vice President of the Blue Water Young Professionals. According to Hanton, the next Blue Water Art Hop date has not yet been set but will likely occur sometime in April. Those interested in learning more about the Art Hop can visit the Young Professional’s website at www.bwyp.org.
7 Pet of the issue - Wolverine
Photo credit: Angie Stoecklin
Faster Education
Community Angie Stoecklin Staff Writer Say hello to Wolverine. He is a 4 year old all white male who is most likely a Main Coon mix since he is a rather large feline. A very vocal and people-friendly creature, Wolverine arrived at the humane society for no other reason than that he did not get along with the other cats his previous owners had. He would do best as the only cat in the household, unless his new owner was to adopt his sister Sassy, another white cat who arrived with him. Both cats are spayed and neutered. As a part of the Blue Water Area Humane Society’s “Home for the Holidays” adoption event, which goes until Dec. 21, The $50 adoption
‘Blue Water Middle College: An Overview’ Kristopher Reynolds Staff Writer
That is where the Blue Water Middle College Academy comes in. The BWMCA is a program available College proves time and time again to students of Algonac, Yale, Port to be one of the most difficult tasks a Huron, and Memphis that requires person can undertake, both in time students to stay in high school for a and economics (as many wallets, thirteenth year. In turn it provides empty bank accounts, and loan graduates with both a high school statements around SC4 will show). diploma and an associate’s degree. Considering everyone must This is done by the student already dedicate 12 years of their simultaneously taking both high life in order to hold a free bare school courses at the chosen high minimum education, the thought school and college courses at SC4. It of paying thousands to hundreds is not available to those who were of thousands to attend a postalready seniors or graduated before school for several years after being the inception of the BWMCA. violently thrown out into the ‘real’ The best part- it is free. That’s world is migraine inducing. right. Free college courses. Books,
tuition, and lab fees are of no cost to the student. The only thing that isn’t covered is transportation to SC4. Students start attending the BWMCA in 11th grade. In their 13th year of high school, they receive their high school diploma. The diploma itself is issued by the BWMCA, not from the attended high school. The associate’s degree is an actual SC4 degree. Graduation from the BWMCA takes place at SC4, not the attended high school. When it comes to high school activities, they stay very much the same. Students can still participate in sports, band, homecoming, prom,
fee will be waived upon a donation from the humane society’s wish list: a large bag of Purina Cat or Kitten Chow, large bag or jug of tidy cat litter (non clumping preferred), large jug of laundry detergent or bleach, large bottle of Lemon Pine Sol, and postage stamps. For support of the pet of the issue, an anonymous donor has offered to help with adoption fees or donations of any pet featured in the ESG. This donor is not affiliated with the humane society so those interested in this offer should contact the Erie Square Gazette (writers contact info below). For more information on Wolverine or the “Home for the Holidays” event call Blue Water Area Humane Society at 810-987-4357.
and other extracurricular activities. Certain high school honors no longer apply to an attendee of the BWMCA, as such a Middle College student cannot be a Valedictorian, Salutatorian, part of the Academic Top 20, or any other high-school specific educational award. If a student wishes to walk with their high school class at graduation, all they need to do is talk to their principal and it will be done. They will just not receive their diploma until completion of the program. A jump start to a higher education is never a bad thing, especially free of cost.
8
Editorial
The season of receiving
The Christmas tradition and why it terrifies me Erick Fredendall Editor-in-Chief
The holiday season is a special time during the year where collectively as a society we seem to band together to fight of the melancholy of winter. Lights are strung, carols are sung, and everyone is in the kitchen baking for big family reunions and parties. But one insidious tradition stands among the rest when December comes around, and it comes in the guise of a fat man breaking and entering households and leaving behind presents for everyone who mom and dad think have behaved. In the grand scheme of things, the fat man isn’t the problem; it’s what he leaves behind. Presents. Let me share a story. When I was a wee little lad, my relatives from Washington decided to fly across the United States to celebrate Christmas at the family household. Our reunion was fun until Christmas morning, when I learned a valuable lesson that still makes me shudder every time I see a Christmas present. When I was younger I had an unhealthy obsession with trading cards. To emphasize the depth of my addiction, I had made a list of all the cards I needed for my collection to be “complete” and submitted it to the U.S. Postal Service for speedy delivery straight to Santa. You can imagine my shock after rummaging through my presents Christmas morning and finding not
one single pack of cards. Slightly disheartened, I didn’t make much of a fuss until I looked over at my visiting cousin, who had received a few decks of trading cards in his stocking. Hell broke loose. I had one of the largest temper-tantrums of my entire life. I cried, kicked, and screamed. I tried to bully him into “sharing” a few cards with me. All of this happened within a matter of minutes before my parents dragged me into the living room and
Used under a Creative Commons license.
confronted me. I remember after the residual emotion died down I felt more miserable and ashamed than I had my entire life. I apologized profusely to everyone at the household, but the mood in the house was dampened for the rest of the day. I was the spoiled little brat who ruined Christmas. The greed from that Christmas never went away. I still felt it every year when I reached at the end of
Photo Credit: Michael Dorausch.
my pile of presents, a little dark thought would slip into my mind with three words: “I want more.” I’m not going to call for the reformation of everyone’s favorite holiday, but I think it’s time to take a look some time tested traditions and ask whether or not they have purpose in our lives. People are quick to praise Christmas as a season of giving but fail to realize when you have such a season, a season of taking follows close behind.
9
Editorial
Young marriage
Why not tie the knot? Alex Olson Staff Writer
Marriage. Marriage is a word that causes many women to look expectantly at their boyfriends and a makes those same boyfriends shuffle their feet and mutter something about “waiting until it’s right.” For college students, everything is about the future. Careers, jobs, next semester, that test that was completely forgotten about. But should marriage be on that list? Opponents of young marriages say that students should focus on their career and studies; that young people 18 to 25 are immature and cannot sustain a relationship. “Most people can’t even handle being in a relationship, even a few years after
high school has ended,” said Torren Mitchell, age 19. “I’ve seen maybe three or four different instances of teens getting married out of high school, or even while still attending. If you’re not mature enough to avoid fighting over the color of your shoes, how do you expect to survive marriage?” Mitchell raises a valid point; maturity. College students are notorious for changing their mind, changing majors, changing careers, and changing life outlooks via Facebook posts. On the other side of the argument, Elizabeth Fry, Port Huron native, says: “I got engaged when I was 17, a senior in high school. I faced a lot of scrutiny from peers and teachers. I was told I was too young, that I needed to finish school, and that we’d never see each other because he was in the army. I was told that I didn’t know who I was yet so how could I know who to marry?” Who’s to judge? Our generation is placed under scrutiny because it appears to be full of unwed mothers and teen pregnancies, so older people see us as immature, bratty, technology addicted fools. Why can’t we be the judge of who and when to marry? Fry agrees. “They are clouded by the negative aspects of marriage and the younger generation. Some of the criticism was out of protection for my future and as a person. Most of it came from ignorant people who have never loved long distance like I had to.” Fry brings up ignorance, which
Photo credit: Graphic created by Torren Mitchell and Alex Olson
is an excellent point. Who is better fit to judge your future, you, or someone deemed “wise” simply because of their age? Both partners need to have an understanding of what they want out of life and what they want out of the marriage. It is important to tie
the knot for the right reasons. “I think that if you’re young and want to get married,” said Fry, “it is important to know yourself first and know your needs and wants out of life to make sure they match up with your partners.”
10
Editorial
Two journalism practicum
students share how the practicum has impacted their lives
Erick Fredendall Editor-in-Chief
I’ve written in the journalism practicum for three semesters now, and next semester I anticipate being my last. I give credit to the course for finalizing my career choice: I want to report the news. My sense of resolve towards the life of a newshound can be traced back to the first time the practicum’s advisor, John Lusk, critiqued my work. Back in 2012, a famous political activist named Tom Hayden arrived at SC4 to speak at the college. The feature story ran front page and I remember Lusk critiquing my article, describing my lede as “damn close to poetry.” I was immediately hooked, but never fully reflected on his comment until becoming the editor of the student paper; poetry truly is an apt comparison to traditional news writing. Both writing forms stress the importance of precision: each word counts. News stories and poems are often edited and re-edited by the authors to ensure each word adds to the overall work. The theme is conciseness adds strength to the work. William Shakespeare summarized the rule best when he said “brevity is the soul of wit.” Many writers have accused the elements of style in news writing as constricting creative flow. This is far from the case. Journalistic writing is acutely aware of itself. Divisions are made between fact and opinion through editorials where reporters are allowed to express their sense of self, much like I am doing right now. And while news writing does have structural standards, rules are made to be broken by those who understand them. Those in disagreement need look no further than Hunter S. Thompson or Hemmingway to see conventional styles broken in favor of the writer’s own personal voice. These writers understood that good journalism resonates from the desire to tell a story, not just the words they use to describe it. My desire to tell stories rises from understanding everyone and everything has a story, and my career is to find them, learn them, and share them with the world. That is damn close to poetry to me. Contact Erick at ejfredendall@gmail.com or follow him on Twitter @MrFredendall.
P o i n t o f
v i e w
Jennifer Gibson Staff Writer
As the fall semester comes to an end, taking the journalism practicum course has pushed my purest passion to the very top of my priorities. I remember the excitement of enrolling for my fall classes this past May, the absolute certainty that I, Jennifer Gibson, would be a journalist! It was my calling and I was finally taking the wheel, heading straight to my dream. Enter reality. Rose-colored glasses now in pieces on the floor, shards of idealistic dreams and wishful thinking mocked me with the crushing sound of each step into the semester. Journalistic style writing, AP style, not at all what I had envisioned it to be; I was hooked in a literary episode of MTV’s “Catfish” if there were such a thing. My true passion, I now realize, is creative writing. I want the freedom and challenge of creating a story transporting my reader to another world, not tell them about the reality of the one they live in. I want to write unbound by absolute truths and similes. Instead I want metaphors leaping off the page taking the reader into a deeper, thought provoking realm of my version of reality. The great Emily Dickinson said, “Tell the truth, but tell it slant.” Journalistic style writing bounds the writer and reader to a strict, concise, condensed version of what is happening in the world. Most often the journalist is restricted to the simple facts of the story, void of their own voice of the events being covered. Reporting the news is the creative writer’s straight jacket. In this fast-paced world we live in, the journalist is able to provide up-to-the-minutes news on a moment’s notice. There is no waiting for the next book, or the journey one travels from page one to 900. On the other hand, there is a level of intensity a good creative writer provides making that 900-page expedition so intriguing that one is left with a longing of more when the end is reached. There is no part of me that regrets taking the journalism practicum course. The advisor is fantastic, thank you, John Lusk, for your constructive critiques and wonderful advice. writing career. Contact Jennifer at justjennee@gmail.com
11
Editorial
‘Tis the Season to Shop?
SC4 Students provide input on commercialization of Christmas
Monica Stiles Staff Writer Some may not remember the 1960’s Charlie Brown comic strip about Christmas shopping where Charlie Brown was saddened by the sound of cash register’s overpowering the spirit of Christmas. Imagine what his reaction would be today. With lines of shoppers flowing out the doors of shops and the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season in full swing the true meaning behind Christmas tends to slip out of the forefront of people’s minds and the best deals tend to slip into
Money on the Mind.
its place. Fortunately, some individuals here at SC4 have not let the true meaning of Christmas slip their minds. Renee Bennett, a student at SC4, wife and mother stated, “I don’t enjoy the experience of Black Friday. I would much rather go out another day when the crowds are lighter. In the end you get the same deals.” When asked what Christmas means to her she responded, “Christmas isn’t about what presents you receive, or who spent the most money at the end of the day, it is about making memories and spending time with the people that you love and care about.” Shelby Jordan, another student at
SC4 stated, “Christmas to me means getting the opportunity to spend time with your family and enjoying the season with the people that you love. It’s not about receiving presents, what matters is being able to have my family with me.” Jordan also went on to speak about the lack of religion in the Christmas season nowadays, “My family and I go to Christmas Eve mass every year. This mass is one of my favorites. It’s the time we are given to worship and celebrate His birthday.” “So many people make it look like Christmas is just a time to spoil your kids with presents and by doing so make them believe that Christmas is all about how many presents one
Photo by Monica Stiles
receives,’ Jordan said, “parent’s don’t show that it’s a time celebrate the birth of Christ and to thank him for the world that he allows us to live in daily.” This year let’s not be swept away by the sound of cash registers and the amount of Christmas presents under one’s Christmas tree, let’s revel in the feeling of love, joy, and thankfulness. Let’s spend time with the one’s we love, and celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all! Contact Monica at mleestiles@ ymail.com.
Entertainment
The Neighbourhood Album Review “I Love You” album keeps it cool Liz Whittemore Photo Editor
Whilst we Northerners are still in a bit of confusion whether or not to grab a jacket in the morning, indierock group The Neighbourhood can feel free to sing to me about “Sweater Weather” even on the hottest of days. The Los-Angeles based band
released their 13- track newest album “I Love You” in April 2013 following up their album “I’m Sorry…” released in August 2012, “I Love You” features radio hit “Sweater Weather” which has over 6 million views and is on iTunes top 100 for featured songs. Overall, this album in two words: smooth and seductive. Users on Metacritic.com gave “I
Love You” a score of 6.9 out of 10 rating. Review complaints consisting mostly of amateur lyrics. Media critic magazine PopMatters gave the album a rating of 50 out of 100 saying the album was an “extremely flawed debut with good intentions.” The NBHD has a consistent sound throughout the album, their hit song is not tweaked to appeal to their targeted demographic to draw them
12
in to buying the album. “I Love You” is highly recommended for various levels of activity ranging from background study music, music to make-out to, and car singing. Ultimately, I dig it. Contact Liz at lizphotosesg@gmail. com
13
Entertainment
Winter has come… in Disney’s “Frozen” Two icy thumbs up Liz Whittemore Photo Editor
I admit that I was skeptical about Disney putting out yet another princess movie, but they took me by surprise with a refreshingly new concept. Overall, it was very well done. Main character Anna (Kristen Bell) goes on a search to retrieve her winter-gifted sister Elsa (Indina Menzel) after Elsa accidentally sets upon their kingdom a permanent winter. She finds help from Kristoff, his pet reindeer Sven, and talkative snowman Olaf. “Frozen” received an 88% rating
NG
N
OW
P
YI A L
on Rotten Tomatoes, receiving praise for the graphic art, characters, and storyline. “I like the fact that Disney put out a sister movie,” said SC4 student Alonna Mertz. “That’s new for them and I truly enjoyed it.” There is more depth to the characters in this film. The movie made me feel suspense, joy, sadness, and even anger throughout the film. The characters are easier to relate to, personality-wise. Older sister Elsa is protective and pessimistic, while Anna is painfully awkward and optimistic, and Kristoff is far from Prince Charming. “It looks a lot like Tangled, so I hope it’s as funny and adorable, but I do love traditional animation,” said SC4 student Sarah Donaldson. “The
new stuff is pretty cool though since it’s more realistic.” By the end, “Frozen” will likely leave you with the urge to build a snowman.
Duration: 108 minutes Rating: PG Genre: Animation, Family/Adventure
14
Entertainment
Time and Space Collide for 50 years
Doctor Who’s 50th anniversary special was one to remember. Jenelle Kalaf Staff Writer
Warning: There are a few minor
spoilers laced within this review. 50 years ago, a man named Sydney Newman created a show about an alien that went by the title of “Doctor,” who traveled in a blue box that was bigger on the inside. No one thought a little show about an alien and his friends would last more than 4 years. 50 years later, the Doctor has become a symbol for hope. With 50 years of television history, there has to be a celebration. And by the fires of Gallifrey, there was. On Nov. 23, 2013, Whovians (fans of “Doctor Who”) from over 75 countries sat together in movies theaters and in homes and watched the simulcast of the 50th Anniversary special of “Doctor Who.” To give a little back story, more than 11 people have played this lovable alien, and every so often, writers can make things a little more wibbly-wobbly for more than one Doctor to make an appearance. The special officially had 3 Doctors front and center, but all 12, well, 13 Doctors, were ready for action. Among the 3 main Doctors, fan favorite, David Tennant, famous amongst the fans for his 10th Doctor, returned with Billie Piper, as the Moment imitating Rose Tyler/Bad Wolf. John Hurt returned for a second appearance as the War Doctor trying to decide whether to kill or destroy Gallifrey, his home planet. Of course, where would we be without Matt Smith, our current
CLICK.
ORDER.
EAT.
FREAKY FAST
DELIVERY! ©2011 JIMMY JOHN’S FRANCHISE, LLC ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
and 11th Doctor. His jokes are always a welcome for the end of the world. The 3 Doctors banters, insults, and compliments seemed natural to the 800, 903 and 1,200 year old man(s). The episode pays its respects to the last 50 years with long, multi-colored scarves, fezes, and “the round things.” We even saw a glimpse of Peter Capaldi as the 12th Doctor, but only a glimpse. Once again, plot holes were once again abundant throughout the episode, but this is a very normal occurrence for the Time Lord’s journeys. The whole episode was “one great big ball of wibblywobbly, timey-wimey… stuff” and was solved in a way only the Doctor, or 3, or 13, could do it.
15 No room for failure
Entertainment
Sony and Microsoft battle for #1
Nicholas Wedyke Managing Editor
The XB1's controller (left) and the PS4's controller (right).
consoles. PS4’s development company, Sony, stated in a press release The colorful leaves have now all before the launch that it expected a fallen to the ground, the air is bitter mere 0.4% of its console to either fail or have another issue. cold, and the next generations of This was wishful thinking on video game consoles are settled in Sony’s part, but as of the fifth week to be enjoyed for the long winter; of the launch, PS4 approaches only or are they? 1% of the consoles having failed or The release of the Xbox One experienced a major problem. (XB1) and PlayStation 4 (PS4) When put into perspective, was the biggest combined console with 2.1 million PS4s that have launch in video game history been sold only around 21,000 are according to IGN.com, with defective. each selling over one million This may seem like a large consoles on their respective launch number, but according to weekends alone. With these kinds of numbers, the Computerworld.com and math first few weeks of launch should be Sony is selling over 100,000 consoles every day since the full of bugs, crashes and console launch. PS4s are flying off the failures, but to the surprise of shelves faster than Sony can many, the last few weeks have manufacture them. According been rather pleasant for the rival
Sony’s UK boss Fergal Gara, Sony has a reserve of PS4s ready to send out to gamers who were sold a faulty console. The Xbox One’s developer, Microsoft, has taken the initiative in the customer service campaign of the console war. According to Gamespot.com Microsoft states that they will send users who own a faulty system a brand new XB1 even before sending in the broken system for replacement. This will best PS4’s return policy by getting XB1 gamers a new console in a matter of days rather than weeks. Another advantage to disgruntled XB1 users is the upcoming patch that is in the work. Reddit.com’s Xbox One sub-reddit has exploded with gamers posting problems that they want patched, so much so that
Graphic by Mark Farrell, used under a Creative Commons license.
a thread was created combining all the problems that need patching on the XB1. Larry Hryb, Xbox Director of Programming commented on the thread stating “Good list here. I can say that there are teams working on many of these right now. I can’t say which ones yet... but things are going to improve.” This is great news for both consoles. After a hard fought couple of weeks, each console seems to be settling in for the final stretch of the calendar and fiscal year. Patches, low failure rates and a better overall gaming experience leaves only one true winner of the console war, the gamer. Email Nicholas at Nwedyke@ Gmail.com.
Sports
Dream Team on ice
SC4 Alumni Hockey Dream Team has three games remaining this season
Liz Whittemore Photo Editor SC4 Alumni Hockey Dream Team’s next game is scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 8 at McMorran Place Arena in Port Huron at 7 p.m. The team, consisting of local supporters and alumni of SC4, play hockey against other local non-profit organizations to raise money for local charities.
16 Early Season Success Dominic Cocco Staff Writer
If the season were to end today, the SC4 men’s basketball team would find themselves in a great position. Currently, the Skippers sit at an overall record of 7-2. With their most recent win coming in a 65-63 victory over Black Hawk College of Moline. Home court advantage could be the key to the Skippers success as they sit at a home record of 3-0. The Dream Team will go against Tickets to the home games are SC4 is also 2-0 on Neutral courts. the Port Huron High School and $5 each, all of which goes to the Making their only losses to take Port Huron Northern High School charity save for one dollar which place at opposing team’s areas. alumni. goes to cover the cost of renting In the game against Black SC4 Alumni Hockey Dream the ice for the game according Hawk College the stats would be Team Captain and Platinum to Dream Team Coach/Manager described as followed: Antwan Sponsor Ted Barss was one of the David Goetze. Willis had 15 points and 13 first people on board with the So far the SC4 Alumni have not rebounds. idea of starting the team. won any games, though they have Joemar Black added 15 points “I don’t think a lot of people come close each time. and Matt VanDyk had 12 points, know about this yet, but I think The Dream Team doesn’t view 10 rebounds and five blocks and it’s something that will grow,” them as a true loss. Mighael Hollandsworth also had said Barss. “It’s a win-win,” said Goetze. eight points and four rebounds. “We hope to keep doing this “It was a big win,” SC4 men’s year after year; we’ve had great coach Dale Vos said. response so far.” SC4 Skippers next game After their Jan. 8 game there will be against Lake Michigan are two last games for the season Community College at home, on on Feb. 20 and March 14. Both December 14, at 2pm. games will be at McMorran Place Contact Dominic at dmdac123@ Arena at 7 p.m. yahoo.com For SC4 Alumni Hockey tickets call (810) 989-5760.
17
Comics
Comics
18
Walsh grads see great old brands up to new tricks. We love our pets. In 2012, Americans spent $53 billion on pet food, supplies, over-the-counter medicine, vet care, and designer products like Paul Mitchell dog shampoo, Omaha Steaks pet treats, and Harley Davidson collars. What pets are most popular? Freshwater fish, then cats and dogs and birds, oh my. Walsh grads see business in everything, and impact great companies everywhere. See more at livebreathebusiness.org/DogTreat. Winter classes begin January 6.
FERRIS
®The yellow notebook design is a registered trademark of Walsh College. And the campaign is a creation of Perich Advertising + Design. Thanks to the fine folks at Walsh for letting us say so.
Live close. Go Far. Business Administration – International Tourism Developed specifically for the partnership with Lambton College and St. Clair County Community College, this degree is offered in Port Huron to round out students’ education with a strong core of business courses specializing in international tourism. This is a Business Administration – Professional Track degree emphasizing international tourism. Once students complete the degree, they will have a combination of occupational specialty knowledge with business knowledge and will be ready to serve in management and administrative positions in the hospitality and tourism industry.
in addition to the Criminal Justice program and Business Administration - Professional Track (international Tourism) right here at SC4, we have fully onlIne degrees and certificate programs, as well as a host of online classes available. To find out which courses are offered online, or to determine if online learning is right for you, visit ferris.edu/online.
CAll our offICe
FerriS ONLiNe Degree PrOgrAMS Master’s Degrees Business Administration, MBA Nursing, MSN Bachelor’s Degrees Allied Health Sciences Automotive Management Business Administration Business Administration – Professional Track Dental Hygiene Health information Management HVACr engineering Technology* integrative Studies Nuclear Medicine Technology Nursing rN to BSN Technical education * requires a 5-day on-campus laboratory session.
at (586) 263-6773 or (586) 445-7150 to schedule an appointment with an academic advisor.
Ferris state University Port Huron www.ferris.edu/porthuron