Volume 64.3
The
Erie Square Gazette A public forum by and for the students of St. Clair County Community College
February
27 2014
28-year-old murder resurfaces in court St. Clair Circuit Court to hold hearing for Freeman/Kensu
Erick Fredendall Editor-in-Chief
On Nov. 5, 1986, at 9 a.m., Scott Macklem, son of the then current mayor of Croswell, was fatally wounded as a shotgun round tore through his body while he stood next to his car in the SC4 parking lot. Thus far, this was the only murder ever to occur on SC4 grounds. Four days later, a man named Frederick Freeman was taken into custody while using a pay phone at a coffee shop in Troy, MI, for questioning related to the murder of Scott Macklem. In August of 1987, Freeman was convicted of first degree murder and sentenced to life in prison without parole. According to information obtained from the Michigan Department of Correction’s directory, Frederick Thomas Freeman, now known as Temujin Kensu, now 50 years-old, is currently serving the sentence at the Thumb Correctional Facility. After multiple appeals for a new trial, a hearing will be held March 12 in the St. Clair County Circuit Court with circuit court judge Michael West residing. The hearing, passed to
Volume 50, Issue 5 a special edition of the Erie Square Gazette, published Nov. 4, 2004 covering the Frederick Freeman/Temnjin Kensu Case.
the circuit court following an appellate order from the Michigan Supreme Court, will determine whether the evidence being presented by Freeman/ Kensu’s legal team merits a new trial. The evidence in question are photographs, obtained by Freeman’s legal team under a Freedom of Information Act request. According to Joe Viola, filmmaker and advocate for Freeman/Kensu, the photographs used to identify Freeman/Kensu by the witnesses were not the
same images that were presented to the jury. Viola, along with retired WXYZ reporter Bill Proctor, participated in filming the 2007 documentary “Justice Incarcerated,” an indepth investigation into the Freeman case. A key component of the prosecutor case was Philip Joplin, a fellow inmate during the time that Freeman was on trial. In “Justice Incarcerated,” Philip Joplin recanted previous testimony given during the trial, when he claimed that Freeman admitted to killing Macklem with
a shotgun. The documentary also showed Freeman/Kensu taking a polygraph test. Results indicated that Freeman was not lying when he denied responsibility in the death of Scott Macklem. The St. Clair County Prosecutor, Michael Wendling, could not be reached for comment. The Erie Square Gazette will continue to follow the Temujin Kensu case in the next issue, which will be available March 13. Contact Erick Fredendall at ejfredendall@gmail.com or follow him on Twitter @MrFredendall.
1
Calendar
Editor-in-Chief
Erick Fredendall Production Editor/Designer Zack Penzien
Campus
Community
Assistant Production Editor Emily Mainguy
March 6 – Opening Reception: 46th Annual Beatrice Thornton Student Art Show – 4-6 p.m. – Middle and High School Students – Fine Arts Gallery
Feb. 28 – CelticFest Kick-off Breakfast Lynch’s Irish Tavern – 6-10 a.m.
Managing Editor Greg Garofalo Copy Editor Angie Stoecklin Photo Editor Liz Whittemore Sports Editor Brendan Buffa Business Editor Brian Heidt 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
March 9 – 18th Annual St. Clair County Science and Engineering Fair 12-3 p.m. – College Center and Fine Arts Theatre
Sports
Men’s Basketball March 1 – MCCAA Championship* March 4, 6, 8 - District 10 Tournament*
Women’s Basketball March 1 – MCCAA Championship* March 4, 7, 8 - District H Championship* Baseball March 7, 8, 9 – All Season JUCO Baseball Event* March 6 – Patrick Henry Community College -2.p.m. March 10 – Catawba Valley Community College -2p.m. March 13 – Davenport University -3p.m. *denote host TBA
Feb. 28 – Ladies Nigh/Pamper Party – Paul Mitchell the School – 5-8 p.m. – Part of the Paul Mitchell FUNraising campaign. Proceeds will benefit 11 charities. - $30 each or two for $50. Registration Requested.
Feb. 28 – Mardi Gras Family Pool Party – Blue Water YMCA – 6-8 p.m. – Free for members, $5 per person nonmembers
March 1 – Port Huron Figure Skating Club Ice Show: “Ice Fantasies 2014” – 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. – McMorran Arena - $10 adults and $6 Seniors and Children.
March 5 – Film: “Animal Crackers” – The Raven – 7:30 p.m. March 6 – Opening Receptions: “Wheels and more,” “Conversations with Light,” and the Linda Chamberlin Exhibit – Studio 1219 – 6-8 p.m. March 10 – The Jordan World Circus 2014 – McMorran – 4:30-7:30 p.m. $18.99 adults, $14.99 children.
2 Letter to the Editor Healthcare Q&A John Dawson Organizing for Action
afford to let healthcare fall into the partisan divide. Below you will find no nonsense In the hyperpolarized political answers to the vital questions relandscape in which we live, the topic garding health reform. of healthcare has landed somewhere • When do I need to enroll? March between tax loopholes and budget 31, 2014 is the last day of open deficits in the public consciousness. enrollment. Yet unlike deficits or tax loop• How do I apply for healthcare? holes, healthcare has life changing You can enroll at healthcare.gov or immediate impacts on all of us. call 1-800-318-2596. Whether it is your physical or • Who can apply at healthcare. financial wellbeing, or the health of gov? You can apply at healthcare. one’s parents or children, we cannot gov if your employer does not offer
Reporter of the month Donald Lierman
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. The editorial staff at the Erie Square Gazette wishes to welcome back Don Lierman, past sports editor and current staff writer at the ESG.
a health insurance option, you are self-employed, or you are currently unemployed. • If I go to healthcare.gov am I obligated to buy insurance? No, there is no obligation, you can simply go there and get a quote without having to buy. • Isn’t healthcare.gov only for the poor? Not at all. The healthcare law provides subsidized premiums for households making up to 400% of the poverty level. For a family of four that’s an income of $94,200 a year.
Hopefully I have taken the issue of healthcare out of the murky realm of half-truths and myths which has surrounded the topic. I encourage you to share this new information with whomever you think would benefit from it. Our surrounding rural areas contain many farming families and small business owners who have been without access to healthcare for decades. Get covered, the life you save may be your own.
Subsequently, the staff agrees that Don is the “Reporter of the Month” for February, credit due in part to his enthusiastic return to the Gazette, but also for his contributions to the sports section in the previous and current issues of the ESG. Don’s return to the ESG is after a three year hiatus which he spent honing his sports writing craft at various publications in St. Clair County, including both the Times Herald of Port Huron and The Voice in New Baltimore. He has already accumulated one
“Lede of the Issue,” for his story, “Lady Skippers fillet Firebirds.” The “Lede of the Issue” is a recognition given by our advisor, John Lusk, to applaud well-crafted opening paragraphs in student’s work. Since his arrival, Don’s willingness to communicate with the editors on sports assignments is tremendously helpful for the production crew, and has not gone unnoticed. Don has quickly become a valuable asset to the Erie Square Gazette, and the editorial staff is excited to see more of Don in the issues to come.
3
Campus
Bowling, laughter and good times, oh my Club activity scheduled for March 11
Nichole Hatcher Staff Writer
will be the ones handing over the trophy to the winning team, or seeing as they are the reigning champs SC4 will host their annual Club Ac- for the last two semesters, they may tivity Day on March 11. This year’s be holding onto it. battle of the clubs will be bowling at “We have been working on our the Zebra Bar at noon. skills,” said Marketing and ManageEach team will have three players ment president James Woolman. and everyone will play at least one Woolman also pointed out that game. At the end of the game, the another sport he would like to see players’ final scores will be added up on club activity day would be 3 on 3 together. Whoever has the highest basketball. score wins. “I am looking forward to networkMarketing and Management Club ing with the other clubs,” said Zom-
bie Defense Council president Chris Campbell. The Student Government will be there as well. But since they are the ones hosting the event they will not be participating, instead spending the time helping out and separating the clubs into teams. All the participants will be served pizza and pop, but there will be no beer allowed. Club Activity Day was created three years ago by previous Student Government president, Doug John-
son. In past club activity events they have played dodge ball or laser tag. This is the first time they will be participating in bowling. The Erie Square Gazette would like to wish all the clubs good luck, although Editor-in-Chief Erick Fredendall assures the student body no luck will be needed, as the ESG’s team, “The Deadliners,” are a shoe in to win this year’s competition.
Need ad space? rie Square Gazette
ESGADVERTISING@GMAIL.COM
(810) 989-5786
4
Campus
Van Gogh in the making
Elementary students from St. Clair County display their art Hannah Hunter Staff Writer
After months of planning, the 46th annual Beatrice Thorton exhibit is finally underway. Planning for this exhibit takes months of preparation. Local elementary school staff and SC4 staff start to get the ball rolling for preparation as early as November. The elementary exhibit is one of two parts to this show. The high school exhibit will kick off Thursday, March 6 with a reception from 3 to 6 p.m. in the SC4 Fine Arts building. The elementary exhibit took place from Feb. 3 through Feb. 20. Families could be seen wandering the halls of the Fine Arts building admiring student’s artwork. Students are able to view their artwork at a place where they can further their education in the notso-near future. At the elementary exhibit reception held on Feb. 3, a crowd of 1,000 people came out to celebrate with the young artists. The exhibit consists of 2D and 3D art. There are approximately 1,000 2D pieces and 150 3D art sculptures. The exhibit was named after Beatrice Thorton, a much loved local art teacher. Until eight years ago, this exhibit was held at the local historical museum. It became so large that SC4 was asked to help display a portion of the student art. Six years ago, the Beatrice Thorton exhibit was moved completely to the SC4 Fine Arts
3D art by Garrett Barno, a 5th grade student from Gardens Elementary School on display in SC4’s Fine Arts Gallery. Photo credit: Hannah Hunter
Building. With every year that the exhibit continues, the number of piece submission goes up, which means the number of young artists in our
community is rising. “I think it’s a great community outreach” said Karen Jezewski, fine arts building Secretary. Gallery hours are Monday through
Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Saturday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
5
Campus
Del James Blessinger Award deadline approaches Faculty excellence gets acknowledged Kimberley Dunkin Staff Writer
Do you know a professor who deserves to be acknowledged for what they do? The Del James Blessinger Award is the perfect opportunity to do so. This year is the 90th annual commencement ceremony where the recipient of The Del James Blessinger Award will be honored. SC4 students, staff, faculty, and administrators can submit nominations for the award. With the deadline coming up quick on Feb. 28, if you have someone in mind to nominate now is the time to do so. What to look for in a good nominee: • Has knowledge and good presentation of subject matter • Motivates the students to do well in the course • Motivates students to achieve outside the classroom • Provides service for our college and our community In appreciation of an award he received while attending SC4 as a student, the late Del James Blessinger decided to set aside a portion of the earnings from an endowment for the college each year to award a full time and/or adjunct faculty member for their teaching excellence. A few past recipients include Julie Armstrong, Sharon Armstrong and Paul Bedard; all full-time faculty
members here at SC4. Last year, adjunct English instructor Bob Kroll received the award at the SC4’s 89th commencement ceremony. “This award is a great way to honor faculty and staff for the work we do,
we don’t always get recognition,” said SC4 Marketing Manager, Martha Pennington. The award is a good way for students to be involved and for them to have a say in who gets to be acknowledged.
So if one of your professors or a faculty member you know deserves to be acknowledged for the hard work they do, send in a nomination on the SC4 Portal or pick up a form in the president’s office.
Blessinger Foundation Trustee, Stephen Saffee, (left) presents the Del James Blessinger Award to English adjunct instructor Robert Kroll (right). Photo by: SC4 public relations
6
Campus
Praise, jazz, and a family band
Gospel jazz for Black History Month at SC4 Kristopher Reynolds Staff Writer
The Thomason Family Band came to lay down the soul Feb. 20 as part of the “SC4 Thursday Noon & Night Free Concert Series” hosted in SC4’s
Fine Arts Theatre. The quartet’s performance blended classic smooth jazz, soul, and instrumental gospel with songs such as “Christ is All,” “Awesome God,” and “Speak to my Heart.” The band is composed of all
family. James Thomason Jr., known colloquially as “The Sax Man,” has over 30 years of experience in delivering the word of the good Lord via saxophone. Thomason Jr. is also the night foreman of the SC4 custodial staff. He plays Alto, Tenor,
The Maestro doing what he does best. Photo credit: Krist Reynolds
and Soprano Saxophones. Minister Joel Thomason handles keyboard for the band, and is known as ‘The Maestro’. John Thomason Sr. is in charge of slappin’ the bass, an instrument he fell in love with after breaking the first two strings of an acoustic guitar. Melvin Duren III handles the drum work for the group, at the mere age of 15. According to his family, he began playing at the age of two, where there realized his prodigal gift for the rhythm section. At the end of the night, Thomason Jr. remarked “We play gospel jazz. They had asked us to come because they wanted something different for black history month. I enjoyed myself, I loved playing here tonight. God has blessed me with this talent, and I love it. It’s good playing with my family.” Loreleen Nichols of Port Huron said “I’ve known them my whole life. Minister Joel was the musician for the choir at my church, known him for 37 years. Tonight is long overdue. I just love them. Glad they could make it happen tonight.” Coming up March 27 for the next installment of the Thursday Noon & Night Free Concert Series, Moxie Strings, a Celtic/Americana group. Admission is always free, and will be held at noon and again at 7 p.m. For a fee of $10 and phone call to (810)-989-5709, reservations can be made to have a lunch in with the performers following the noon show.
7
Campus
Election for student government begin next month Positions offer scholarship incentives Liz Whittemore Photo Editor
Current vice president Jessica Fye enjoyed her time on the executive board. Student leaders come forth. “Serving on student government Elections for student government gives you a new perspective of the executive board positions for the college. You see a whole other side 2014-2015 academic year is coming to it,” said Fye. up. Eligible students must have a The executive board consists 2.0 GPA and have completed at of the president, vice president, least 67 percent of their classes. secretary, and treasurer. Both Petition forms are available in the president and vice president registration office located in the ATC positions offer a full scholarship building on SC4’s campus. incentive. Secretary and treasurer Current student government positions are three-quarter president Sean Lathrop offers scholarship positions. some advice, “You have to get 40
signatures, but I recommend getting 45 just in case some don’t count.” Signatures must be from current SC4 students. Deadline to turn in the petition form is Thursday, March 20. If approved, you are added to the ballot and have ten days to promote yourself either around campus or through social media outlets. Elections will be held in the cafeteria in the college center Wednesday, March 30 and Thursday, April 1. Voters must be current SC4 students and are required to bring photo identification with them
before they are given a ballot. Election times will be from 10 to 2 and 5 to 6 each day. Those that are running for a position will not be able to be in the cafeteria during these time frames. A final count will be done immediately following voting closing up Thursday, April 1. The candidates or a representative must be present at that time. If appointed, the official term begins the day after the winter semester ends. Contact Liz at lizphotosesg@gmail.com
Student government executive board during the all club meeting Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2014. Left to right president Sean Lathrop, secretary Rebecca Roehrer, treasurer Brian Heidt, and vice president Jessica Fye. Photo credit Liz Whittemore.
8
Campus
Student government executive board 2013-14
Rebecca Roehrer
Pharmaceuticals major Capac Current Secretary
Jessica Fye
Liberal arts major Port Huron Current vice president
Sean Lathrop
Broadcasting major Port Huron Current president
“I try to keep order regarding “I take notes at every executive executive board meetings and and all club meetings and provide events. Whenever a student has “The vice president is pretty much minutes for the student clubs. I in charge of most of the events that an issue they can come to me so I document everything and am the SG puts on, and I help with executive can go to the administration. I’m main source of communication a representative for the student board decisions. My position gives for the clubs. I like it because it’s voice. There’s a bit more of a target good leadership experience and something else to do rather than on your back being president looks great on applications, but it’s just school and I get the opportunity rather than the other positions; the very stressful and difficult to put to meet a lot of people. But I’m time aside for the position between president is more of a figure head like their mother, I have to keep and has to answer for mistakes. work and school. The office is a big contacting every club to make There is a large amount of stress pro. We get free printing, our own sure they got documents and meet computers, and it’s great for privacy balancing school, work, social life, deadlines; it’s time-consuming. But and student government. A home rather than the library.” it breaks you out of your shell.” away from home is what your office becomes.
Brian Heidt
Accounting major Yale Current treasurer
“My position is more than just handling the money. I also take part in the planning and carrying out of events. I don’t think people appreciate all that this college does for them, with the events and activities. You have to be in it for the clubs, not just the scholarship. We spend our summer and breaks planning these events so that while students are in school they have something to do.” Liberal Arts major
9 Registration: facts and helpful hints How to make registration less stressful Mairead Warner Staff Writer
Registration can be really confusing at times for new students. Here are some ways to make the registering process easier. According to St. Clair Community College’s Facebook page, summer registration starts Monday Feb. 24. The SC4 Portal serves as a source of help for students who want to register. According to SC4 Portal announcements titled, “details on summer 2014 tuition and fees,� the semester start date for the first summer semester is Monday, May 19, and the end date is June 27. The semester start date for the second summer semester is Monday, June 30; the end date of the semester is Friday, August 8. Students taking a summer class can get more classes out of the way and get their credits in a shorter period of time. One thing that students should know is that they can register for summer classes on the SC4 Portal under the Wave for college credit students. If students have any questions there are available outlets willing to help. Students can call the one-stop Student Services Center at (810) 989-5520. Student Services can assist student with financial aid, registration help, or to scheduling appointments with an academic advisor to discuss student options for classes needed for their degree. Students can also schedule an academic advising appointment by on the SC4 Portal, or through the SC4 mobile app, Ellucian GO. The academic advising offices are in the Acheson Technology Center. Students can stop by the One-stop Student Services Center in the Acheson Technology Center Room 123. Students can check out what courses are available and what courses are being taught for both summer semesters. Students are encouraged to register during the first couple of weeks that registration starts and not at the last second.
illustration by Zachary Penzien
Campus
Community
That’s all, folks!
Blue Water Film Festival takes a leave of absence
10
there is no word on if this will be a permanent change. The news of the BWFF cancellation effects people from all walks of life. One such person is local Port Huron resident Travis Boone, 21. Travis had high hopes of showing his film “Here We Are” to the public through the Film Festival, but was shot down when he learned of the Festival being postponed for the year. Mr. Boone said he was asked to make “Here We Are” by a manager at his grandmother’s retirement home after he showed a previous film of his there. By genre definition, his movie would be called a documentary. However, Travis made it clear that the film is “natural and unscripted, but I don’t explain anything.” The movie is set entirely in a retirement home. When asked about the film and his process, he responded with “I made a boat by stringing mattresses together with dental floss.” Damion Pearson, 18, also of Port Huron, fellow filmmaker and friend to Boone expressed his frustration at the situation. Damion’s work had not yet made it into the Film Festival, but that never stopped him Actress Ellen Burstyn accepts the 2013 Golden Mitten Award at the fifth annual Blue Water Film Festival Friday, Sept. 27, 2013. Photo credit Liz Whittemore. from trying. The Zombie Defense Council has Nick “Chico” Hernandez website, “the board cites the need The Film Festival started in 2009 hinted at a possibility of Travis’ film Staff Writer for additional staff and volunteers and has been annual until this year. being shown somewhere on campus, as well as financial independence According to “Blue Water Film but no concrete details have arisen Darkness naturally falls over any and an increase in festival audience Festival rolls up its tent,” an article yet. theater, and the Blue Water Film attendance as reasons for the by The Voice, 110 films by 87 Travis Boone stated that, in the Festival (BWFF) is no exception. event’s postponement.” directors from Michigan and Ontario case of having his movie shown, The Blue Water Film Festival has Jeremy Stemen, executive director have had their work showcased for if there isn’t a way “then I plan to been cancelled this year. of the BWFF could not be reached any that would see it. make a way.” According to the BWFF official for comment. While the event is gone this year,
11 Pass it along
Community
Young girl’s kindness inspires community Erick Fredendall Editor-in-Chief
Ryan Hiller, barista at the Exquisite Corpse Coffee House, was handed a twenty dollar bill Saturday morning with instructions to buy the following customers’ drinks for as long as he could. Neither Hiller nor the benefactor knew how far the simple act of kindness would
carry itself. That is, all weekend. From Saturday morning through Monday afternoon, no one paid for their own drink orders. SC4 International Student Services Coordinator Lisa Tobiczyk gave the money to Hiller with a simple instruction: pay the money forward, and when you do, tell them about a girl named Rachel Kolar.
SATURDAY, MARCH 8
EXPLORE EASTERN. UNDERGRADUATE OPEN HOUSE • Meet your future professors in one of 200+ programs • Apply FREE of charge – a $35 savings • Learn from advisers in Financial Aid, Housing, Dining, Career Services and more...
#TRUEMU emich.edu/explore
Kolar, Tobiczyk explained, was injured in a serious car accident on Jan. 21 and is currently in recovery. On her birthday Feb. 23, friends decided to celebrate Kolar’s kindness and compassion by doing a random act of kindness in her name. “We wanted to celebrate who she is, but we also wanted to bless other people, just like she does,” Tobiczyk said. Visitors at the coffee shop loved the gesture. Throughout the weekend, customers would regularly hand the baristas’ more than what their drink orders were worth, followed by three words: “Keep this going.” Tobiczyk’s gesture was one of many. On her birthday, Kolar’s Facebook wall was filled with pictures and comments of her friends and family sharing their stories and the acts of kindness they performed throughout the day. When contacted by the ESG, Tobiczyk painted a stunning portrait of Rachel Kolar: a 19year old freshman attending SC4, active in the women’s volleyball team, and working at the Fort Gratiot Toys-R-Us. “She sponsors four kids around the world on her Toys-R-Us
income,” said Tobiczyk, “there was a phrase that she always used, ‘love does.’ She got it from a book, “Love Does,” by Bob Goff, and it totally defines who Rachel is.” Perhaps unknowingly, the customers and employees at the Exquisite Corpse Coffee House receive a small insight into the kind of person Rachel Kolar is by the actions her loved ones made in her name. And on behalf of the Erie Square Gazette’s editorial board, we wish to celebrate Rachel Kolar’s life, loved ones, and expedited recovery by making the following statement: Each editor of the Erie Square Gazette pledges to do a random act of kindness for someone in the following two weeks, and continue to tell the story of a young girl who touched the hearts of those she came across. We encourage our readers to share this pledge and story. Contact Erick Fredendall at ejfredendall@gmail.com or follow him on Twitter @MrFredendall.
Editorial
Pornographic material XXXposed
How many times have you deleted your history? Gregory Garofalo Managing Editor
12
their partners. However, these cases are rare and have received heavy professional Recently the increasingly popular critique such as Psychology Today’s YouTube channel Discovery News article, “An Erectile Dysfunction Myth.” released a video titled, “Religious On the other hand, Psychology People View Porn Addiction Today’s article stated that porn Differently.” This two minute video wasn’t the cause of ED, but that sparked a question about the populace’s opinion on this graphic excessive masturbation was to blame. Although, this could be seen subject, and the validity of the as an aftermath of pornography video’s hypothesis: is there really considering that porn and such thing as a porn addiction? masturbating go together like In essence, the YouTube video stated that pornography addiction peanut butter and jelly. Apart from a biological effect, may have been fabricated by strong negative social effects are religious and moral beliefs due also within the ripples of porn’s to the fact that there is no clinical aftermath. diagnosis for one, and also that many porn addiction relief books Tyler and Veronica Benton, founders of “The White Collar Side and studies are linked very closely Show,” an addiction relief drama and with religion. musical group, founded their start Could pornography really be an on pornography. In an interview invisible pandemic thriving behind our keyboards? It’s hard to say, with xxxchurch.com, Veronica said her husband’s secret addiction since in order to spot an addiction, to pornography made her feel addiction itself must be established. inadequate in her appearance and According to Psychology Today even pushed her to the point of magazine, addiction is “a condition that results when a person ingests a bulimia. This can be linked to the obvious substance or engages in an activity problem with pornography; porn that can be pleasurable, but the shamelessly objectifies women into continued use of which becomes were eye opening. The latter group the brain with a flood of endorphins, faceless sexual objects. compulsive and interferes with ordinary life responsibilities such as did not exist, or could not be found. the brain’s natural excitement drug. Even though pornography does not The experiment was scrapped. If endorphins are released at a have a medical diagnosis of being work, relationships, or health.” Pornography is hot and steamy constant enough rate, the brain will an addiction, its excessive use does A recent study at Montreal share some of the same criteria. University attempted to discover the right now, but is it harmful to human have to up the stakes in order to behavior? achieve the same level of excitement. Users should be aware of what its answer to this steamy question. According to yourbrainonporn. This inevitably desensitizes the The goal was to create a survey, use can do. Just because porn is com, porn can lead to erectile brain to anything other than a more widely consumed and accepted does one group of men in their twenties dysfunction or ED in men as extreme level of porn. not necessarily mean that it should who view porn, and another group early as they’re twenties due to In essence, the site states that be. of male twenty-something’s who desensitization. Pornography feeds eventually men will prefer porn to have never seen porn. The results
13 Trace of Lime album review A psychedelic journey Vaux Adams Guest Writer
Melodic, metaphoric, and masterful. How’s that to describe an album? Because no better words can
explain the journey you will be sent on from track one of the upcoming album, “I Know It’s Nothing, But I’m Happy It’s Something” by psychedelic rock band, Trace of Lime. Right off the bat I knew this was
Music going to be something new and very powerful. From the shouting to the whispering, the bongos to the trumpet and everything else in between, you won’t need drugs to make you feel like you’re on them while listening to this.
Something about this band brings a new breath for music to the table; this is finally something that sounds different from everything you have ever heard. Sure you can compare it to several bands and songs just like you can with any other band or song. However this band adds some new feel to whatever type of genre you want to call it, and I can’t quite seem to put my finger on it. There are several times while listening to this album where I guarantee you will be totally lost, in what I want to call something similar to the “Wall of Sound” effect. The album is full of powerful choruses and spine tingling breaks, in which you can feel pure energy flowing from your eardrums into your entire body. Leaving you with the only thing you can do while listening to Trace of Lime, rock your head and tap your foot to the steady pounding drum beat found in every song and well, dance. If you like The Beatles, Cage the Elephant, Portugal, The Man, or just want something new and interesting to rock to, keep a look out for Trace of Lime’s debut album “I Know It’s Nothing But I’m Happy It’s Something,” which will be released on March 22. You can follow and/or listen to Trace of Lime at any of the following links: soundcloud.com/traceoflime traceoflime.bandcamp.com
14
Music
The Tiny Ugly Germs
Hipsters come hither to hear the unique sound of local band Lily Petit Staff Writer
The main vocalist and song writer, Nate Leritz, good-naturedly calls their music “angst-y stuff.” The Tiny Ugly Germs are infecting You can hear this “angst-y stuff” Port Huron residents and you might at The Flint Local 432 or the more be next. local Schwonk Sound Stead. And The melodic punk-rock band The when your ears beg for more, there’s Tiny Ugly Germs is entirely made up always the internet to turn to. of current SC4 students, but you’re Nate has released several EP’s going to have to leave campus if you by himself on thetinyuglygerms. want to hear them live. bandcamp.com. That can hold you Nate Leritz, 21, and Nick Ranger, over until their official EP, Not Dead, 21, formed The Tiny Ugly Germs in Just Lying Very Still, is released later 2011. Since then, the guitar playing this year. duo has added Tim Hicks’ drum The band’s first song that they beats and Hannah Eppley’s bass learned together, ‘Nimbostratus’, is skills. featured on Nate’s EP, Fun Sucks, and The Port Huron natives create a will be included in Not Dead, Just mixture of music that Nate Leritz Lying Very Still. describes as “melodic punk and post While The Tiny Ugly Germs hardcore.” appreciate the support of their fans,
they aren’t looking to go big. “It’s just too mainstream to get popular” Nate Leritz said jokingly. He added that their style of music isn’t made for the Top 40. Despite not going out of their way to build a fan base, they’ve garnered enough attention to be nominated for two categories at the Blue Water Music Awards. All My Fish Are Dead earned them a nomination for album of the year. Furthermore, they’re nominated for best export, which the Blue Water Music Awards
The Tiny Ugly Germs (from left to right) – Hannah Eppley (bass), Tim Hicks (drums), Nate Leritz (guitar/vocals), Nick Ranger (guitar/vocals) playing at the Flint Local 432 on November 16, 2013.
voting poll describes as “the best in town band/artist that will be the next big thing.” To keep up with all of The Tiny Ugly Germs’ news, you can like and follow them on Facebook.
15
Sports
Skippers coach leads team’s quest for crown SC4’s basketball coach makes positive impact on team Donald Lierman Staff Writer
Years ago, the Lady Skippers basketball team was hovering around .500. A midseason change brought Michael Groulx to take the reigns of an ineffectual squad. Today, SC4 is poised to make a run at a national title and is ranked in the top ten. Groulx is no stranger to SC4. He attended the school in 2002-2004 at which time he played basketball for current athletic director and men’s basketball coach Dale Vos. He returned to become assistant basketball coach from 2006-2007 until 2011-2012. “Mike studied and worked at learning more than any assistant I ever had,” said Vos. “I may have helped him a little with his coaching, but in the recruitment end he taught me a bunch.” Groulx became interim women’s basketball head coach in January 2012 and took over the position in March 2012. “By the time he went to the women’s program he was my go to guy. He set many of our defenses, did much of our scouting, and almost all of our recruiting” said Vos. “He is a great teacher of skills and probably the best recruiter in the state. He reads game situations extremely well.” Last year’s Lady Skippers team captured fourth place in the national tournament. Coach Groulx remembers their performance proudly.
freshmen on this team to buy into what we were teaching. Slowly but surely, the freshmen have grown up and the sophomores have taken on more leadership.” Freshman Ta’kira Height is impressed with the coaching. “Coach Groulx has impacted us tremendously, he has given us the confidence we need as a team” said Height. “He helps us reach higher levels of potential. It is not only with basketball but with school, too. I’m honored to be here. I know he will help us become great.” Groulx works as an admission’s representative at SC4. He and his wife, Ashley, have two daughters, Adrien, 8, and Addison, 3. On June 18, 2013, Addison was diagnosed with Leukemia. “She is receiving chemotherapy treatment. With that comes a lot of time spent in the hospital” said Groulx. “She is doing well and responding well, but the worries are always there and I have had to learn to balance my time between my family Photo credit Donald Lierman and our basketball family. My wife is such a strong woman and without “Last year’s team was a group that school records of 32 wins in a her, the success of this season would became a family very quickly,” said season, and 17 most consecutive Groulx. “They were very unselfish wins in a season, becoming the first not be possible.” Despite these adversities, Groulx’s and had great player leadership. women’s team in the history of SC4 passion for teaching and developing They competed every day in practice to capture the league championship. and brought a very high energy, This year’s model has even higher youth remains. “I don’t want to be remembered for passion, and excitement to every expectations. the championships that we won. I game.” “The returning sophomores were want to be remembered for the lives The sophomores on last year’s part of a highly successful group. squad played in back to back However, they do not want to live in I was able to change by helping kids national tournaments. That squad the past and plan to blaze their own move on to university where they can complete their education.” finished their sophomore season trail” Groulx said. undefeated at home. They set “It has taken a little longer for the
16
Sports
Skippers hold Hawks on ground level
SC4 women’s basketball team head towards championship Brendan Buffa Sports Editor
The Skippers clipped the wings of the Hawks and came ready to play, scoring more than double their opponent. Attempting to orchestrate a triumphant takeoff, the Henry Ford Hawks were held down by the Lady Skippers in a 102-48 point loss. Currently leading the Western and Eastern conference, the Lady Skippers are sitting on top with a 24-2 overall record, and are currently undefeated in the MCCAA Eastern conference. Not only did the Skippers succeed with a win, they supported breast cancer awareness by sporting their pink jerseys. The Lady Skippers play in the Western conference championship
on March 1, and then to the NJCAA District H Tournament at Delta College.
SC4 #5 Lady Skipper forward Whitley Currie struggles with #5 Hawk’s Shantel Tolbert for the ball during the game against Henry Ford Community College Saturday, Feb. 22. Photo credit Kaylee Bert.
SC4 basketball teams roll Skippers approach playoffs Donald Lierman Staff Writer
Head Coach Mike Groulx is looking hasn’t been done by St. Clair County for his second consecutive MCCAA Community College since ’97 and Women’s championship, which ’98.
points. Rachel Kehoe notched 18 points and six rebounds. And Ta’kira Height added 13 points. Both Macomb Community College “I thought we played well,” said Monarch basketball teams were women’s basketball coach Michael singed by their SC4 counterparts Groulx. “We executed our game plan Tuesday as the Skipper squads effectively. Our half-court defense continue their march to the playoffs. was excellent.” The Lady Skippers notched their The win gives SC4 a 17-0 20th victory in a row in front of a league record, one game from an home crowd with a score of 80 to undefeated season. Their overall 58, a drubbing of the third place record is 24-2. Macomb team. “Overall, we were able to use our Sheyna Deans led SC4 with 23 athleticism to make plays on both
offense and defense” Groulx said. The Lady Skippers play for the state championship on Saturday; then move on to the regional tournament on March 7. SC4 men’s squad upped their league record to 10-7 and 17-11 overall. “I was proud of the way our guys found a way to win,” said men’s basketball coach Dale Vos. “Although we shot poorly from the three point range and the free throw line, we only trailed once. Otherwise, we led
the whole way.” Marquis Pool and Antwan Willis led the Skippers with 12 points. Matthew Van Dyk added 11 points and 12 rebounds. “This was an important win as it clinched a home playoff berth” Vos said. SC4 will host an opening round regional playoff game Tuesday at 7 p.m.
17 Want to start writing?
Entertainment
Check out “Your First Novel” by Ann Rittenberg and Laura Whitcomb Gregory Garofalo Managing Editor
Laura Whitcomb. The book differs greatly from other “thirty days or less” scam books. For creative writers, it can be “Your First Novel” is a well thought difficult to find decent tools to help out manual to draft up and finish the them progress their art form. novel or story of your dreams. Painters have their pastels and The way it differs from other musicians have their instruments, writers books is its format. So many while creative writers have a slice writing books are written in a prose of the reference section in Barnes format such as “Writing and the and Noble. That is why anyone who Art of Zen” by Ray Bradbury, “On aspires to write short stories or a Writing” by Stephen King, and the novel should pick up the book: “Your “Now Write” series. First Novel” by Ann Rittenberg and While the above are all great books
GO WEST.
in their field, “Your First Novel” stands apart like a breath of fresh air. The book is written in an easy to follow text book format. It’s filled with short sections and chapters, diagrams, and bullets. All of this makes navigating the book a breeze and allows one to get right to their desired need. Instead of a book you have to thoroughly read to gain small tips of insight, this is the ultimate guide and reference a writer can use to
INTERACTIVE PRINT
quickly find tips and specifics that relate to their struggles in writing. While the book is very helpful, there are of course some draw backs. One thing the book fails to do at times is keeping its sections concise. The first chapter especially is decent enough, but feels a little drawn out. However the flaws are at a pleasing minimum and overall the book is a fantastic guide to get into writing.
INTERACTIVE PRINT
Download the f Layar App
INTERACTIVE PRINT
Download the free Layar App
Scan this page interactive con
Download the free Layar App
Scan this page for interactive content
wmich.edu/GoWest
PeoPle come here because they’re lookinG for somethinG. For them it’s about discovery. What they find is a challenge—something unexpected—that opens up new frontiers. Go West. Discover. Explore. This is one of America’s great universities. A lot of people who have become successful—skilled, happy, wealthy and influential—started by heading West. Western Michigan University. It’s your turn to Grab the reins.
Entertainment
18
A game savior
Lightning returned to save our souls
Jenelle Kalaf Staff Writer
trouble right after. “Final Fantasy XIII-2” follows Lightning’s sister Serah, who must Lightning suits up again to redeem take up arms and stop the world what her sister has lost. from ending while her sister is Oh, and to save the world. trapped in another dimension. Square Enix’s “Final Fantasy XIII: Long story short, most fans of the Lightning Returns” makes up for series can agree that Serah really what the last two games lacked in had no right to lead a game. the series and something the Final “Lightning Returns” dives deeper Fantasy games are really known for. into Lightning and what her destiny A solid story. is. The first game, “Final Fantasy XII,” Well, to save the world, but past tells of a world, a cocoon, being that. broken down by a terrible plague. The world is ending in 13 days, Lightning and her friends manage and Lightning knows it can’t be to stop it, but only to be thrown into stopped. So she’s taken it upon
herself to save as many souls as she can before the end comes. I don’t want to spoil anything, but the story is well written. The first game had a good story, but it was long and there was no incentive to play on at parts. The second game didn’t even have a good or a comprehendible story, let alone a strong lead to make it interesting. But in “Lightning Returns,” they made the plot much simpler. Lightning really has no control over anything that’s happening, but she doesn’t let fate take the reins. She really did become the center of
this universe, and it was done with grace. So what did “Lightning Returns” do right other than a good story? I know, unpopular opinion, but I preferred the real-time-strategy battle style, in which both sides can attack at any time, instead of the turn-base style, where each side takes turns while fighting; so I was happy to see it back. While it’s still no masterpiece and Square Enix still has a long way to go, “Final Fantasy XIII: Lightning Returns” is a step in the right direction. A very big step.
Entertainment Yelling about comics: Justice League War Zachary Penzien Production Editor
Earlier this month, DC Comics assembled the Justice League and shipped them off to fight the alien invasion of Darkside. “Justice League: War” is the latest offering from the DC animation division. “War” is the Re-telling and slight tweaking of the “Justice League Origins” storyline. It is the first animated feature to be adapted from the new 52 reboot back in 2011. “Justice League: War” is the telling of the first time out for the justice
league. The league is made up of Green Lantern, Shazam, Cyborge, the Flash, and of course Wonder Woman, Superman and Batman. The main voice cast of the Justice League is solid; everyone has a distinct personality to the voices and seems to bring something new to the character they play. In the animation, everyone fights and
19
been. Complaints aside, I really like this movie. Whenever Batman and Green Lantern are in the same scene it is the best. “War” doesn’t get weighed down by explaining who every character is and what moves differently in a way that fits their motivations are; which is good, the character. because at this point we can skip Unfortunately the background who Superman is. characters voice acting is a bit War is able to overcome its rough. And sadly, Wonder Woman’s short comings and be a genuinely lines sound a bit clunky in spots. The movie is really fun but it kind enjoyable movie. If you have any interest in the Justice League give it of falls apart in the 3rd act. It seems a shot. It is out now where ever you like some important story scenes were cut for time that shouldn’t have get your DVD’s or digital videos.
CRIMINAL JUSTICE AND OTHER DEGREES TO SAFEGUARD YOUR FUTURE. Ferris State University offers degrees that align educations with occupations in growing career fields. And with 19 locations, online programs and affordable tuition, there’s an opportunity near you. Learn more about what we offer at St. Clair County Community College at ferris.edu/porthuron.
/ PORT HURON