The Pennon September 2011

September 2011:May Issue.QXD

8/23/11

5:56 PM

Page 1

SEPTEMBER 2011

THE PENNON IS ONLINE AT: northshore.edu/pennon

Welcome To North Shore Community College

• A Monthly Publication For The Students of North Shore Community College, Danvers, Lynn & Beverly, Massachusetts •

Real Opportunities

BY DONNA L. RICHEMOND VICE PRESIDENT FOR STUDENT AND ENROLLMENT SERVICES

we are honored that you chose North Shore Community College (NSCC) from the array

Donna Richemond

I want to welcome back our returning students and also our new students who are beginning an exciting new phase of their education. Your talents, accomplishments and future goals are impressive, and

of fine colleges and universities that may have been available to you. It is our goal to do everything possible to ensure that your experience here not only meets but exceeds your expectations.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

Keep it Fresh with SGA

BY NICK LOVASCO & RYAN NOLAN We would like to welcome you back to North Shore Community College and introduce you to us, your new Student Government Association President and Student Trustee. Your friends in the SGA have been busy all summer fundraising, planning, and learning in preparation for the year to come.

Although we are friends, students, and SGA representatives, we have two different perspectives on how to approach tasks. Ryan is the guy who keeps us holistic, human, and connected. He always takes time to explain the importance

INSIDE:

of living sustainably, reaching out, and building a dialogue.

When you have to contact a bunch of people or need support on a project, he’s the guy to call because he knows everyone and shares a mutual respect with all.

Nick makes sure that the SGA stays on track. He takes on responsibility with complete confidence.

Sometimes there is so much energy going back and forth during meetings and events we can easily get caught up in the moment. Nick steps in and helps us focus our ideas and passion into a logical direction.

The SGA got together for a retreat so we could learn how to CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

$F$: On the Money Page 2

BY PRESIDENT WAYNE BURTON

I’d like to extend a warm welcome to all our new and returning students. On our campuses in Danvers, Lynn and Beverly, you'll meet and work with dedicated faculty, counselors, advisors and professional staff who are dedicated to your success and helping you reach your goals.

You'll also find a full range of support and Student Life programs which can make your time at NSCC very rewarding. I encourage you to take advantage of the real opportunities available to you. Whether you are just out of high school or whether you’ve been out of

the classroom for years, I know you will feel at home at North Shore Community College.

You’ve chosen a very exciting time to be part of NSCC. This fall promises to be a very active one as we prepare to open the college’s newest building, Health Professions and Student Services Building on the Danvers campus. The building is the Commonwealth’s first net zero energy building and will further promote the college’s commitment to environmental stewardship, using sustainability as a teaching tool and cutting edge allied health student preparation.

We are equally excited

about the self study of our Lynn campus. We anticipate that this will result in a new building on our current campus footprint to meet the soaring demand in our urban center as well as renovations and “greening” improvements at our existing Lynn location. And we will be preparing to make all our campuses smoke free come January of 2012. This along with new programs of study, new faculty and staff, and more will all make for a very busy and engaging year at NSCC. Know that all of us at NSCC are committed to your success. Study hard, get involved and have a great semester!

Mary Louise Bell

BY MAUREEN O’NEILL DEAN OF LIBERAL STUDIES

‘A Fighter ‘Til the End’

The high quality of the faculty in Community College is one of the best kept secrets in higher education. They care very deeply for students, teaching them the secrets of success, in addition to learning the content of each course they take.

Our Adjunct Faculty is one of our strengths. We employ approximately 400 part time faculty to teach courses in the evening, weekends, and daytime. Some of those faculty have served North Shore students for a whole generation.

We recently lost one of those excellent instructors.

Mary Louise Bell liked to instill confidence in students in her English Composition class at NSCC. She would begin the semester by assuring them they could succeed. Louise

Health Building Opening Page 4

taught Composition for 23 years here. Her dedication was such that even after she was diagnosed with lung cancer in the

she could finish the semester.

When asked why she kept teaching after so many years, she told her family that a person

Mary Louise Bell

spring, she continued teaching.

She had her brother pick up the final papers for her to grade so

is lucky to have the opportunity to change people’s lives for the

NSCC Smoke-Free Page 6

Casey Anthony Page 7

CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

September 2011:May Issue.QXD

8/23/11

5:56 PM

Page 2

PAGE 2 – NSCC PENNON

Nick Lovasco:

Nick Lovasco is looking forward to an active year of leadership in his new role as president of the NSCC Student Government Association (SGA).

“We have set three goals: recruitment and student engagement; documenting policies and procedures to create a Student Government Handbook; and succession planning. I think a lot of students want to get involved, they just aren’t sure if they have enough time or they don’t realize what it can do for them. Becoming active gives students a more useful education where they can see progress from even the smallest level of commitment.

“Student Government is a place where creativity, energy, and ideas move from discussion to action,” Lovasco said.

Student engagement is particularly important to Lovasco. “The SGA made this a priority because we are part of a community college which forces us to reach out to students in a different way. The student body here is so diverse and we feel blessed to be a part of it, but getting feedback, educating students, and determining what the big issues are can be tough. I am thrilled with the age range in our students and the fact that we have so many veterans on campus. Everyone contributes to making this place energetic and unique. The staff really puts in the time to make it the vibrant place that it is,” he added.

Before coming to

North Shore, Nick was like too many students who don’t have the best impression of community colleges. “I was a capable student in high school but failed to apply myself until senior year, then I started to get all A’s.

But my GPA had already suffered, so my guidance counselor said I would have to go to North Shore. I was irritated because I

Nick Lovasco thought that coming to a community college would limit my chances for internships and work offers. But I couldn’t have been more wrong!” he said.

“Everything has fallen into place for me here. I love having the ability to immerse myself in so many different subjects, cultures, and ideas although it does make it hard to decide on a single career. There is something for everyone here.

I have learned quickly that it doesn’t matter where you get your education, it’s what you make of it, how you apply yourself, and the opportunities that you take advantage of,” the lib-

Ryan Nolan:

When the North Shore Community College Board of Trustees holds its first meeting of the 2012 academic year on September 14, Ryan Nolan will be there ready to represent the student body.

Nolan, an environmental studies major, was elected by his peers to serve a one-year term on the Board of Trustees.

He has big shoes to fill following former student trustee John Hruska. John chose to not run again knowing that the Student Trustee position would be something that Ryan could develop and learn from. He says he will be available to mentor his successor at every turn.

“I really enjoy communicating with students, and being on the board will give me an opportunity to voice students' concerns to one of the governing bodies responsible for making major decisions at the college. Taking action isn't necessarily about making a lot of noise, but rather understanding the proper methods to address real issues. I hope to learn in greater depth what it takes to communicate and work effectively with the student body and the Board of Trustees,” Nolan said.

Nolan came to NSCC after graduating from Beverly High School in 2009. He entered the liberal arts program as he wished to explore career options at an affordable institution. He was immediately inter-

New SGA President

eral arts major noted.

Lovasco has distinguished himself in one short year, earning a 4.0 GPA, SGA and Program Council Distinguished Service Awards, as well as a certificate of appreciation for participation in last year’s The Power of Women: Defining Moments in North Shore Workforce History. His achievement, and being selected as the recipient of the Senator Frederick E. Berry scholarship, helped him secure a summer internship with the Senate Majority Leader at the State House where he has enjoyed performing constituent service, addressing district concerns and researching public policy.

He said SGA will have a strong presence at Fall Fest in September, and will be attending a conference in Washington DC, which the group has been fundraising for over the summer. SGA members will learn how to improve the way they represent students and operate on a larger, yet more efficient scale by participating in workshops with student governments from public and private institutions across the nation.

While still unsure of what career path he will select, he is certain that he would like to pursue graduate studies and one day return to be at professor at NSCC. “I pay close attention to how my professors educate and build relationships with students, and I’d like to come back one day and see what I can do from the other side of the classroom.”

Student Trustee

ested when the environmental studies degree was launched last year, and transferred into the program.

“I am very into environmental stewardship, sustainability and holistic ways of living. I want the best for me and everyone around me. I have a strong urge to treat the earth and all those who live upon it with respect because, ultimately, we

Ryan Nolan are all connected,” Nolan noted.

He is an avid member of the Environmental Club, which he hopes to promote more with increased student activities in the coming year.

The new student trustee has one more year to complete before deciding on his next steps. “NSCC is a good environment to be in to experiment and try things because there are lots of opportunities and programs of study, and you don’t feel like you are wasting money. I first thought I wanted to go away to college, but the cost made me realize I would be better off exploring local options. I’m in a good place to

get the basics taken care of,” he continued.

Nolan is open about how much he has grown since coming to NSCC. “What I want to convey to my fellow students is if they get involved, in any way possible, they too will see how doors will open, opportunities will present themselves, and they will meet people who are eager to help them get an education, and find a career. Increased self esteem, confidence and personal growth are all results of playing an active role in your environment,” he said. Nolan received a Service Certificate at the Student Service Awards Ceremony in the spring.

In addition to his work on the Board of Trustees, Nolan is committed to working with his friends in SGA. “We have a dedicated group of students in the SGA right now, but we want to ensure that the association stays on a strong path and continues to reach out to students and the administration. One of the SGA's strategic goals is sucession planning. The other members and I will be launching an official Student Government Association Facebook page this Fall to recruit new members, with unique ideas, who have the potential to lead North Shore Community College into a a new era of student advocacy and engagement.”

$F$: On the Money

BY DUG JEAN LAURENT DIRECTOR OF FINANCIAL AID

In an effort to better communicate with you some of the changes taking place in Financial Aid, a year ago I began something new, which led to a regular monthly article in the Pennon covering various Financial Aid topics that are crucial to you. Understanding that most of you have a very busy life, I wanted to make sure we were using all available tools to speak directly to you – the students. Fast forward to a year later, my goal as always is to keep you informed of all pertinent rules and policies, which may, in one form or another, impact your eligibility during the academic year of 20112012, or sometime in the future.

Let’s start with SAP or Satisfactory Academic Progress. SAP is the standard by which Financial Aid uses to measure students’ academic history before determining their eligibility to receive federal and state aid. Your academic record will be reviewed at the end of each semester to make sure you have complied with the Financial Aid satisfactory academic progress standards outlined below. To be eligible for financial aid, you must meet the standards of Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP). It’s important to remember that Financial Aid satisfactory academic standards and NSCC’s overall academic standards are not the same.

Satisfactory Academic Progress, for financial aid purposes, is based on three criteria: Cumulative GPA, Completion Rate and Maximum Time Frame.

What is considered acceptable Satisfactory Academic Progress?

A. Grade Point Average - Financial aid recipients must maintain a 2.0 cumulative GPA to retain financial aid eligibility.

B. Completion Rate - Students must successfully complete at least 67% of their cumulative attempted credits.

This calculation is performed by dividing the number of credit hours earned (completed) by the number of credit hours

attempted.

C. Maximum Time Frame - Federal guidelines stipulate that the maximum time frame for successful program completion may not exceed 150% of the published length of the program. Transfer hours that apply toward the determined major will count in the maximum time frame allowed. Repeated credits and remedial classes are counted in the maximum time frame calculation. (For instance, if the published length of an academic program is 60 credit hours, the maximum period must not exceed 90 (60 × 1.5) attempted credit hours.)

Effective Fall 2011, Financial Aid will be measuring SAP based on the following standards.

Financial Aid Warning A student will be placed on Financial Aid Warning if he or she: 1.fails to maintain a Cumulative GPA of 2.0 or greater, and 2. fails to complete 67% of all attempted courses.

Students may receive financial aid while on warning but must bring their cumulative GPA and Completion Rate above the stated standards to avoid being placed on financial aid denial in subsequent terms.

Financial Aid Denial Your financial aid is denied if after being placed on warning a student fails to maintain: 1. a 2.0 grade point average, and 2. a 67% completion of all attempted courses.

While on financial aid denial, students cannot receive aid.

Financial Aid Probation A student is placed on Financial Aid Probation if he or she: - Files an appeal by the submission deadline, and receives notification that the appeal has been approved.

If approved, students will be required to sign an Appeal Contract and must adhere to the conditions of that contract, or they will not be eligible to receive financial aid the following semester.

For more information on SAP, log on to http://www.northshore.edu/fina ncial_aid/sap.html. Also, you can stop by either the Danvers or Lynn campus for any questions you may have. Have a wonderful year!

September 2011:May Issue.QXD

8/23/11

5:56 PM

Page 3

Slice

of Culture

Arranged Marriages

BY WASI HASHMI

"Matches are made in heaven” is a statement that everyone believes in the Islamic world. How the arrangement up there works, people may never find out; however, on earth we have two classifications of marriage. There is a marriage that involves falling in love with the right person and marrying them.

There is also a marriage that still shockingly exists in this world as of today, which is called arranged marriage. In the Islamic world marriage is not a ritual that two people who love each other perform; it is an agreement between the two families of the bride and the groom. No matter how aged this tradition of arranged marriage is, there is still some immorality within it.

First of all, an arranged marriage is a marriage in which the partners are selected by a third person, usually the bride's parents. It is more like a marriage between families, not between individuals. Arranged

before the wedding night.

Traditionally, the question of the dowry is the biggest issue that could or could not delay the marriage. Dowry and its outcomes are the foremost negative issues related to arranged marriages. Dowry is given as compensation to the groom's parents for the amount they have spent in educating and upbringing their son, along with the social status and family background of the groom. In the past, when the bride's family did not pay the sufficient amount demanded by the in-laws, the bride would often be burned alive as a result. It is hard to believe; however, burning of the bride is still performed in some parts of the world today. In some states, "at least 5000 women die each year for not bringing in enough dowries." (http://www.dalitstan.org/books /gowh/gowh2.html).

Some women are killed in `kitchen fires, which are often passed off as accidents because their inlaws are not satisfied with their dowries. Statistics such as these

“The Arranged Marriage,” a painting by V.V. Pukirev

marriages are a form of women's oppression, solely arranged by the bride's parents.

The parents hear from a friend or relative about a potential groom for their daughter. They then approach the family if they were of a good, respectable background and ask if they are willing to arrange the marriage between their daughter and son.

If an agreement is reached, they marry their children without them ever meeting each other

are key factors to the negative label attached with arranged marriages today. In other cases, brides are looked upon as burdens as they represent a drain to the family's income.

Unfortunately, if a woman was to become a widow, her presence in the family is considered bad luck. A widow is restricted from participating in the household. In my personal experience as a son, I have witnessed an arranged marriage

between my mother and my step-dad. My step dad has never been married before, but he was forced to get married to my mother due to the wealth that my family brings to his family.

My grandmother, on the other hand, cares for my mother’s situation of being a widow in the Indian and Pakistani community. This is why my grandmother decided to find a groom for my mother; saving her all the pain and suffering that comes along with being a widow in this community.

It is really tough for a man to live life to the fullest when he knows only the name of the woman he will someday marry. I must also be reminded of this statement every day of my life. This decision of course comes from my family. Being nineteen years old and knowing that I will only be allowed to marry the girl that my parents have chosen for me is not a reassuring feeling to have.

Sometimes I wonder if I will ever fall in love with another woman, or find myself in a situation where running away from my family is my only option. It is not about whether I have the right to marry the girl I want, it is about growing up in a culture that believes respecting your parents comes before anything that life has to offer. I can never raise my voice towards my parents and I can never go against their decisions. This is how I was raised.

In the past few years, more and more people have started to look at arranged marriages as amicable agreements.

However, the majority of society still looks down upon the system of arranged marriages as primitive. It is seen as a marriage forced upon a woman, but it is more like a situation where parents introduce different potential spouses to their daughter. It is the families of the bride and groom that decide whether or not to continue with the “agreement.”

Nevertheless, it is the importance of identity, not family values and culture, which leads to the continuing trend of arranged marriages today. One should always get a chance to love and be loved before being forced into marriage.

PAGE 3 – NSCC PENNON

Antoni Gaudi

BY LAURA TIMMONS

Less than two hundred kilometers from the French border lay the beautiful city of Barcelona, Spain, which is the home to one of the most amazing cultures in the world. Its culture consists of unique food, people, traditions, language, art and music. Barcelona also has a

he was not like other children: “An anecdote from this time tells how, after the teacher gave a lecture saying that birds had wings for flying, young Gaudí responded saying that the chickens they had at his house had wings but didn't fly; they used them to run faster.”

At eleven he went to a Pious School called Col·legi de

Antoni Gaudi

culture that is rich in spectacular architecture which is a major part of its overall beauty.

One of the major contributors of architecture here was native-born Antoni Gaudi.

David Bear, writer for the Pittsburg Post-Gazette, called him “Barcelona's most distinctive creative character,” and a “quirky architect whose influence has been magnified far beyond the handful of local structures he created.” This is proof that Gaudi was an incredibly influential artist.

Antoni Gaudí Cornet was born June 25, 1852, in Rues in the Cataluña province of Spain to Francesc Gaudí Serra, a coppersmith, and Antonia Cornet Bertran who was the daughter of a coppersmith. He was the youngest of five. As a child he suffered from rheumatism, which prevented him from going to school. Because of his sickness he would often be left alone to observe the various aspects of nature, obtaining knowledge that many children his aged missed.

The Gaudi & Barcelona Club tells about one instance where it was clear that

les Escoles Píes where he did reasonably well in geometry and excelled overall. It was there that he gained his Christian influence, and developed his drawing skills by drawing illustrations for a weekly school newsletter and designing scenes for its theater.

Gaudi later went to Escuela Técnica Superior de Arquitectura (Upper Technical School of Architecture), and earned the title of Architect in 1878 after turning in multiple projects that displayed his talents.

Shortly after, Gaudi’s mother passed away. He took in his father and his niece as they were his only family since he never married. Gaudi was influenced by gothic art, illustrations of oriental structure and the shapes within nature. He was greatly influenced by the theoretical writing of John Ruskin and by medieval French architecture by Viollet-le-Duc. Gaudi’s talent was noticed when he presented his first large project at the Paris World Fair in 1878. It was a project to improve the workers’ CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

September 2011:May Issue.QXD

8/23/11

5:56 PM

Page 4

PAGE 4 – NSCC PENNON

Are You Aware of the “Silent” STD? weeks after exposure.

BY MICHELE CHAUSSE HEALTH QUARTERS

Did you know that, as of 2009, the number of cases of the sexually transmitted disease (STD) chlamydia - 1.24 million - is at an all time high? That’s a 2.8% increase over the previous year. The infection rate is three times higher in women than men, and highest among teens 15-19 years old, followed close-

What are the symptoms that do appear?

Women might have an abnormal vaginal discharge or a burning sensation when urinating. When the infection spreads from the cervix to the fallopian tubes, some women still have no signs or symptoms; others have lower abdominal pain, low back

Chlamydia-infected cell

ly by those in the 20-24 age group.

Although it is the most reported STD, chlamydia is also substantially under-reported because most people are unaware they are infected.

That’s why Health Quarters encourages all young women whether they need a Pap test or not - to have an exam, including a chlamydia test, every year.

Chlamydia is easily cured with antibiotics, and now the person treated can get a prescription for their partner(s) at the same time - no exam needed!

Here’s what you need to know to stay safe and healthy:

What exactly is chlamydia and why is it called a “silent” STD? Chlamydia is a common STD caused by the bacterium, Chlamydia trachomatis, which can damage a woman's reproductive organs.

Chlamydia is known as a "silent" STD because about 75% of infected women and about 50% of infected men do not show symptoms. If symptoms do occur, they usually appear within one to three

pain, nausea, fever, pain during intercourse, or bleeding between menstrual periods.

Men might have a discharge from their penis or a burning sensation when urinating. Men might also have burning and itching around the opening of the penis.

Men or women who have anal sex may have chlamydial infection in the rectum, which can cause rectal pain, discharge, or bleeding. Chlamydia can also be found in the throats of women and men having oral sex with an infected partner.

What are the risks if it is untreated?

In women, untreated infection can spread into the uterus or fallopian tubes and cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). This happens in up to 40% of women with untreated chlamydia. PID can cause permanent damage to the fallopian tubes, uterus, and surrounding tissues. The damage can lead to chronic pelvic pain, infertility, and potentially fatal ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy outside the uterus). Women infected with chlamydia are up

to five times more likely to become infected with HIV, if exposed.

Complications among men are rare. Infection sometimes spreads to the epididymis (the tube that carries sperm from the testis), causing pain, fever, and, rarely, sterility.

Detection and Treatment

Sexually active women age 25 or younger should be tested once per year and more frequently if they have multiple partners. All pregnant women should have a screening test too.

Chlamydia can be easily treated and cured with antibiotics. A single dose of Zithromax or Doxycycline, which you take daily for one week, are the most common treatments. In addition, the person treated can get a prescription for the same antibiotic for their sex partner(s), without them having an exam.

Everyone with chlamydia should abstain from sex until they and their partner(s) have completed treatment; otherwise, re-infection is possible. Women whose sex partner(s) have not been treated are at high risk for re-infection and retesting should take place three to four months after treatment.

Can it be prevented?

As is true with any STD, the surest way to avoid it is abstinence, or being in a long-term monogamous relationship with a partner who has been tested and is known to be uninfected. Latex male condoms, when used consistently and correctly, can greatly reduce the risk of transmission of chlamydia.

For a test, treatment or other reproductive health care, call Health Quarters for a same or next day appointment at 978.922.4490.

Latex condoms

New Health Building Grand Opening

Hundreds are expected to attend the grand opening of North Shore Community College’s new Health Professions and Student Services building October 17.

Many state officials will be present to celebrate the completed construction of the Commonwealth’s first stateowned “zero net energy” building.

The $32 million, 58,000 square foot, three-story facility will enable the college to consolidate all its health programs, offer cutting-edge health and science education and complete its Danvers campus. It will include specially designed space to train students in health programs using the latest in state-of-the-art equipment and technology. Each health discipline will have its own dedicated practice lab and teaching space and will share hands-on simulation suites and control rooms. This cutting edge equipment will allow the college to graduate exquisitely prepared students ready to fill real and growing demand for allied health positions.

Plans also include the creation of a high tech nursing reference library, anticipated to become a resource for North Shore health professionals. The new facility will also consolidate NSCC’s Student Enrollment Services offices, which combined welcome an estimated 15,000 people every year.

The building is also cutting edge in that it will save as much energy as it uses, through geothermal heating and cooling, solar panels, and smart lighting controls. Zero net energy is a term used to describe a building that is optimally efficient, and over the course of a year, generates energy onsite, using clean renewable resources, in a quantity equal to or greater than the total amount of energy consumed onsite. The building will also meet the requirements of a LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) Gold certified building.

The new building, which will also serve as a teaching tool for sustainability, has a green design that will feature LED lighting, Energy Star

equipment and smart lighting and controls. The facility will utilize conservation technology and efficiency measures including photo-voltaic energy production and the building will have a "green" roof covered in vegetation, "gray" water runoff recovery and solar heat.

Other integrated design components include a south-facing horizontal design, chilled beams to provide air conditioning; LED occupancy sensors; solar sun shades and light shelves; and natural ventilation. The building will utilize onsite clean energy technologies, including a 50-well geothermal closed-loop system and 340 kW of solar panels on the roof and in the parking lot.

Other "green" design features include a green roof, low-flow fixtures, permeable pavement, and native landscaping.

At the October 29, 2009 groundbreaking, NSCC President Wayne M. Burton noted, "Today, we break ground on more than a building. We come together to witness the laying of the cornerstone of a new economic era based on the principles of sustainability and environmental stewardship."

Today President Burton says, “The college is pleased to be on the cutting edge of this movement in Massachusetts. It dovetails perfectly with our internal culture and commitment that North Shore Community College will create an environmentally sound, economically viable, and socially responsible future by advocating the study of sustainability and the application of green principles such as conservation, environmental justice, and green education in our college, communities, and individual lives.

“This core value has resulted in the comprehensive incorporation and integration of environmentally sound practices and programs across the college, from curriculum to energy saving measures, to this new construction. Everyone on the campus is eagerly awaiting the day that the building opens and the implementation of these principles begins in an entirely new way.”

September 2011:May Issue.QXD

BY NELSON BAKER

8/23/11

5:56 PM

Page 5

Workshop With Dr. Miles Chen

On August 6, Dr. Miles Chong Chen of the Chi Wellness Clinic in Waltham introduced his “Workshop on Self-Care Skills” to the students of NSCC. Chen was full of wisdom and insight on topics ranging from the importance of fully taking in the aroma of tea and healthy foods to learning how to achieve total relaxation.

Eating the right food is the most important part of living a healthy life. The food we eat affects not only our body, but our mood. “Fast food is supposed to be comfort food, but it is quite the opposite,” said

Chen. It actually takes away our energy, and negatively affects our mood. Unhealthy eating habits are the route of many of the problems in this country, and Chen believes we need to rise up together so that the food industry will not continue to profit from their “calculated and deceptive advertising and marketing schemes.” The first thing we can do is begin to eat healthy, focusing on grains, greens, animal protein, and fruit. Breakfast really is the most important meal of the day, If we skip it, it will disrupt metabolic processes, and weight gain is inevitable.

“Like, plants, we are capable of healing ourselves,”

said Chen. To do this, we must learn to relax through meditation. “We must quiet the body and mind by breathing in all the way past the diaphragm, and then slowly scan the body to detect any discomfort.”

Chen says that our body sends us subtle messages, and if we can identify the beginning of a problem, we need to put pressure on that area until it is gone. We can stop a small discomfort from developing into something much worse.

For those living with high stress, Chen recommends meditation with each meal, three times a day. When we

Mary Louise Bell

better.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

Continued from Page 1

Louise was not known as an easy grader, but she delighted in submitting good grades , helping students rise to her high standards. In all her time teaching at the school, not a single person complained about her. Students loved her.

Louise taught mostly in the evenings, and she had the deepest respect for community college students. She knew that they had many responsibilities outside of their classes. They work long hours, have family responsibilities, and still manage to do their reading and writing assignments. The goal of class discussions was to lead students to new insights and new ways of understanding the world.

In a meeting held by president Wayne Burton, he mentioned how Bell once stated in a message, “I do not understand the rationale behind your decision in sending the night students out into the same dangerous conditions that exist for the day students after the school and offices have been closed all

day. Actually, the ice and snowbanks are more dangerous at night.”

President Burton went on to say, “A fighter to the end, a student advocate always, and a stalwart champion of the liberal arts, I hope her spirit will live on in her many students and new and current faculty that carry on the feisty tradition that keeps the president on his or her toes.”

According to another long-time faculty member, Claire-Marie Hart, “She is one of the persons at NSCC whom I have known for the longest time. I remember that recently [perhaps a few semesters ago] she had to teach an Intro to Literature course for the first time; we worked together very diligently on it-she was meticulous in her preparation and in wanting to understand the rationale for teaching, selecting pieces and responding to student work. I am sorry for the many incoming students who will never know her as a teacher.”

According to her Obituary in the Boston Globe,

Mrs. Bell, a devoted advocate of education, died July 21 from complications of lung cancer at the Kaplan Family Hospice House in Danvers. She was 80.

Born in Boston but raised in Everett, her parents were immigrants from Newfoundland. She was 12 when her mother died, leaving her to care for her four younger siblings alone during her father’s frequent absences while he was working. She worked for a few years to earn money for college and went to Salem State College, which is now a university, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in education. She then earned a master’s degree in history from Boston University.

As a business woman and as an educator, Louise worked to help people improve their lives. “She liked the fact that she was trying to help people get off welfare and help get them into the working world,’’ said her daughter Barbara Richard of Newburyport.

We will certainly miss Mary Louise Bell.

In keeping with North Shore Community College’s commitment to sustainability, green initiatives and being a good environmental steward, the college will host two Sustainability Fairs this fall, one in Lynn and one on its Danvers campus. Both fairs are free and open to the public and promise to offer an enjoyable mix of educational and entertainment opportunities.

Food, Fitness and Healthy Living will be the theme of the October 12 fair in Lynn, which will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. This fair will: promote local, organic food; build awareness of where food comes from; and examine the direct connection between food

and healthy bodies. For more information contact Diana Kerry, dkerry@northshore.edu or (781) 593-6722 x2105 The Saturday, October 22 fair in Danvers will have Renewable Energy Technology as its theme. This 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. fair will feature a Farmer’s Market, tours of the college’s new Health Professions and Student Services Building – the Commonwealth’s first Zero Net Energy building, exhibits, and activities for the kids. NSCC students will lead tours of the new building highlighting its “green” features such as geothermal heating and cooling, chilled beams, photovoltaic panels for electricity generation, passive solar heat dispersion shelves, green lighting and

smart sensors, and a green roof.

For more information contact Barbara Ikalainen, bikalain01@northshore.edu or (978) 762-4000 x5560.

“NSCC is pleased to be on the cutting edge of the green movement in Massachusetts. It dovetails perfectly with our internal culture and commitment to create an environmentally sound, economically viable, and socially responsible future by advocating the study of sustainability and the application of green principles such as conservation, environmental justice, and green education in our college, communities, and individual lives,” said NSCC President Wayne Burton.

Sustainability Fairs Planned for The Fall

PAGE 5 – NSCC PENNON

North Shore Uncensored

Back to School Confidence Fat & Fierce

The North Shore Uncensored column in the NSCC Pennon Newspaper provides educated harm reduction responses and alternative options to students who have any questions related to sex, drugs, alcohol or any other health concerns sent anonymously to (NSUncensored@hotmail.com) . All responses concerning harm reduction, health, and safety follows NSCC’s commitment to their students and their well being. If you have any questions please send them to the column address. Your personal information will not be shared with anyone and you have the choice whether or not your question will be published.

Question: I had a question about body image that I feel should be addressed in the Pennon. I have very close friends that are especially concerned about their body appearance when they are beginning to go back to school because they have a need to look way better than when they finished their spring classes. I was wondering if you had any advice to boost their confidence and be successful during the semester. Thanks so much.

NSU: This is a very positive and important question for the beginning of the semester. I believe this topic affects everyone- students, faculty, and staff.

I hope this introductory information about body image and confidence from Brown University is helpful.

Body image includes: how we perceive our bodies visually, how we feel about our physical appearance; how we think and talk to ourselves about our bodies, our sense of how other people view our bodies, our sense of our bodies in physical space, and our level of connection to our bodies.

Body image, whether negative or positive, is shaped by a variety of factors: - Comments from family, friends and others about ours, theirs, and other people’s bodies, both positive and negative - Ideals that we develop about physical appearance - The frequency with which we compare ourselves to others - Exposure to images of idealized versus normal bodies - The experience of physical activity - The experience of abuse, including sexual, physical, and emotional abuse - Sensory experiences, including pleasure, pain and illness Many of these factors are controllable; some of them are not.

Having a healthy body image involves understanding the controllable factors and taking steps to preserve this aspect of mental health.

We have a positive body image when we have a realistic perception of our bodies and enjoy them just as they are. Positive body image involves understanding that

healthy attractive bodies come in many shapes and sizes, and that physical appearance says very little about our character or value as a person. Healthy body image means that our assessment of our bodies is kept separate from our sense of selfesteem, and it ensures that we don’t spend an unreasonable amount of time worrying about food, weight and calories.

Negative body image can involve a distorted perception of size or shape, as well as more global feelings of shame, awkwardness, and anxiety about the body. People with negative body image tend to feel that their size or shape is a sign of personal failure, and that it is a very important indicator of worth. Poor body image has been linked to diminished mental performance, low selfesteem, anxiety, depression, sexual dysfunction, dieting and eating disorders.

Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is a particularly intense form of negative body image. People with BDD are so obsessed with perceived flaws in their appearance that it affects relationships with family and friends, as well as creating problems with work or school.

BDD can result in anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts. Fortunately, BDD is very treatable with a combination of medication and therapy.

What we can do to boost body image: - Talk back to the media. All media and messages are constructs and not reflections of reality. We can choose to use a filter that helps us to understand what an advertiser wants us to believe and then choose whether we want to believe that message.

- De-emphasize numbers.

Neither weight nor Body Mass Index tell us anything substantial about body composition and health. Eating habits, activity patterns, and other self-care choices are much more important.

Stop comparing yourself to others. Your physiology is unique to you; you can’t get a sense of your body’s needs and abilities with someone else’s body as a reference point.

Limit the “body checking” that you do throughout the day. Researchers have also found that negative body image is reinforced by lots of time in front of the mirror, or frequent checks of (perceived) body flaws.

Move and enjoy your body – not because you have to, but because it makes you feel strong, energized, and peaceful.

Practice thought -stopping when it comes to negative statements about you. Distract yourself, refuse to get into the comments, and focus on what you like about yourself instead.

Recognize that size prejudice is a form of discrimination similar to other forms of discrimination.

For more health education at Brown University please visit: http://brown.edu/Student_Services/ Health_Services/Health_Education /

September 2011:May Issue.QXD

8/23/11

5:56 PM

Page 6

PAGE 6 – NSCC PENNON

Change is in the Air

NSCC is Proud to Be Going Smoke-Free January 2012!

North Shore Community College is going smoke-free January 1, 2012.

Effective then, smoking will be prohibited in any building or outdoor area owned or leased by NSCC, including indoor facilities, campus grounds, walkways and parking lots. NSCC’s smoke-free policy will apply to all students, staff, faculty, contractors, vendors and visitors.

The decision to go smoke-free, which was driven by the college’s student body and governing Coordinating Council, is an active response to the fact that tobacco smoke is a proven health hazard to both smokers and non-smokers alike, and that tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable death in the United States.

“We are making this change because the college is committed to creating and providing a safe and healthy educational environment for all people who study, work and visit our campuses. Creating a smoke free environment is also in

keeping with the college’s core values and strategic directions of accessibility for all, respect and sustainability,” explained NSCC President Wayne Burton.

He continued, “It was always planned that when the Commonwealth’s first Zero Net Energy building opens on our Danvers campus in January 2012 it would be smoke free as part of its green mission. Thus bringing the rest of our campus into similar compliance makes sense as we strive to be excellent environmental stewards.”

“Making our college smoke free will help create a healthier environment for everyone on campus—free of secondhand smoke and the temptation to start or continue using tobacco. We believe a

smoke-free policy is an important investment in our students’ health and their promising futures. In addition, a smokefree campus is more aesthetically pleasing, welcoming and accessible to all students and staff, safer from fires, and environmentally sustainable,” Burton said.

College administrators understand the process of achieving a 100 percent smokefree environment will take time and patience. NSCC is committed to encouraging and assisting students and staff who wish to overcome their dependence on tobacco by offering cessation programs and a wide range of supportive systems.

“The ultimate success of this policy will depend upon the courtesy, respect, and cooperation of users and non-users of tobacco products. All staff, students and faculty members share the responsibility of creating a courteous atmosphere of self-enforcement,” Burton concluded.

Real Opportunities Continued from Page 1

You are arriving at NSCC at a significant and exciting point in our history. In November, the college will be celebrating the opening of a new building on the Danvers campus, the Health Professions and Student Services building.

There are two new certificate programs (Child Adolescent Behavioral Health Certificate and the Dietary Management Certificate) and the new Graphic Design Integrated Media program, an associate’s degree program. The college has embarked on a new initiative - the “Believe in Lynn” initiative that involves a range of activities that are designed to expand services and facilities at the Lynn campus as well as support scholarships for graduates from Lynn high schools. In addition, NSCC is going smokefree in January 2012. There are also upcoming opportunities to strengthen your leadership skills, including potential membership in NSCC’s founding chapter of the National Society of Leadership and Success – more information will be forthcoming. It is exciting to find NSCC so connected! You can find us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Flicker.

As exciting as these activities are, there is so much more to come!

So that you do not miss any of these opportunities, I encourage you to stay connected. One way to do this is by making good use of your Campus Pipeline account.

Campus Pipeline is a valuable resource for learning about events and activities on campus and for staying updated with important announcements. You can use it to enter a live chat with an academic advisor, signup for and access e-billing, and see what’s new and exciting in Tutoring, Health Services, the Student Support and Advising Center, and in Student Life. For example, did you know that there are ping- pong, pool, checkers and chess tournaments scheduled in September and October and that there are also plans for indoor soccer and dodge ball in the Lynn Gym? If you were accessing you Pipeline account, you would.

If you have not visited your Pipeline account recently, please do so. Take a moment to update your contact information, if you need to. It is especially important that you enter or edit your emergency contact information. In the event of a campus emergency or unanticipated campus closing, NSCC’s Emergency Notification System will alert you through all communication methods you provide. It is critical that you do this. You should also know that email is the primary communication tool of the college.

Please check your NSCC email account frequently. We encourage you to connect your NSCC email to your personal email to avoid missing important information. Exciting news - you can also get your NSCC email sent directly to your phone!

Because I receive my NSCC email on my cell phone, I received an email from a colleague encouraging me to read How to Think Like Leonardo da Vinci: Seven Steps to Genius Every Day by Michael Gelb. I had read the book and done the exercises about seven years ago, but decided to reread it because the life and achievements of Leonardo da Vinci are awe inspiring. I continue to be amazed by how a single person could be a scientist, mathematician, engineer, inventor, anatomist, painter, sculpture, architect, botanist, musician, and writer. I would never suggest that we need to rise to that level of genius or accomplishment. However, pursuing the ideal means being focused on more than excelling in a single area, it means striving for our fullest human potential in every way. So, in light of that, whether you are a new or a returning student, I encourage you to get involved in all that NSCC has to offer academically, personally, and socially.

As an NSCC student, you will have unprecedented opportunities to apply your knowledge and skills in activities on campus and in the service to the community at large.

As you do this, we look forward to cheering you on and helping you along the way. I sincerely hope that your NSCC experience during 2011-2012 is both exciting and productive.

Antoni Gaudi

Continued from Page 3

quality of life in a factory called Cooperativa Mataronense.

Although the project was not successful, it was advanced for its time.

He collaborated with many artists on various projects; decorated the Gilbert pharmacy in Barcelona. One of his close friends allowed him to take over the work on his most famous project, La Sagrada Familia (The Holy Family). Gaudi’s former professor, Francisco de Paula Del Villar, originally managed the project but because of disputes stepped

worked on projects like ‘El Capricho’ for the brother-in-law of the Marquee of Comillas, various palaces, Palau Güella and Palacio de Astorga. He was involved in the building of many homes, villas, a park and even churches like the Cathedral in Palma de Mallorca.

He was paid by the city of Barcelona, rich families and local churches for his work.

Gaudi became so famous that in 1910 he was asked to build a hotel In New York City. Sadly, not long after, many of Gaudi’s close friends

Cooperativa Mataronense

down and made way for Gaudi to continue the project in 1883.

Gaudi worked on the Sagrada Familia for 43 years. The dimensions of the building make it the most elaborate creation he had worked on. The church itself is to be 312 feet long and 197 feet wide. When it is finished it will be able to fit 13,000 people, and have 18 towers, each 394 feet high. It would also have a 558-foot tower dedicated to Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary. According to the Barcelona Tourist Guide, La Sagrada Familia is their most visited tourist attraction in Barcelona, receiving more than 2 million visits per year.

In the years following, Gaudi managed more than a few projects in Barcelona. He

died, and then he became ill with Maltese fever. From that point on, his devotion was aimed at completing the Sagrada Familia.

On June 7th, 1926 Antoni Gaudi was hit and killed by a tram at a busy intersection.

The city of Barcelona mourned greatly for their beloved architect. His body was buried in a crypt. Interestingly enough, this crypt was in the office he had worked in for the last 43 years of his life in the Sagrada Familia. Although his life ended, Antoni Gaudi still lives on today in his spectacular architectural work that remains throughout the city of Barcelona, Spain.

September 2011:May Issue.QXD

8/23/11

5:56 PM

Page 7

PAGE 7 – NSCC PENNON

Judgment For Justice

BY DEBBIE SCARFO

Imagine yourself as a mother of a young child.

Imagine then, what it would be like to have your child missing, vanished from your life. No toddler calling “Mommy.” No daughter to dress in the morning, decked in her favorite pink outfit. No tiny teeth to help brush, no toilet to train. No more temper tantrums for not getting a cookie before dinner.

No sweet sounds of nursery rhymes sung over and over in a small, sing-song voice. No son to scold, no tot to teach. No miniature body to carry when they’re too tired to walk. No good-night stories read one more time. No small pudgy arms bestowing bear hugs before bed. No more tears to

was “busy” working in Tampa.

As the days droned on presumably full of worry for Cindy and George, Casey’s days were very busy indeed. Busy getting Bella Vita, (“Beautiful Life” in Italian) tattooed on her shoulder two weeks after Caylee went missing. Busy partying hard; grinding against women and entering “hot body” contests at the hottest Orlando dance clubs night after night, and busy dating her then-boyfriend. All without mention or the slightest suggestion of any emotion or concern of her daughter’s missing whereabouts.

Many say that Casey Anthony is a disturbing, accomplished storyteller who had no qualms lying to everyone. That she concocted a kidnapping tale of Caylee being abducted by her

Caylee Anthony brush away from a bad dream or nanny, going so far as to giving skinned knee. No trusting eyes police a nanny’s name, a woman looking up at you, loving, innoshe had never met, and then cent of all human depravity. falsely informed police she Just think of all those worked at Universal Orlando moments spent taking care of a Resort. These fabrications and child now lost from your life, no more were supported by testilonger required from you. All monies of Casey’s friends, exthose memorable moments in boyfriend and parents who your days now empty. How attested to Casey’s capability to would you fill the gut-wrenchconsistently spin lies with no ing chasm, the vicious void, the conscience. not-knowing? If you were Supposedly, Casey’s Casey Anthony you’d jam those lies spurred from dark secrets days full with partying ‘til dawn she kept from her own childin clubs and getting tatoos. But hood of sexual abuse by the hey, we all grieve in different hands of her father George, ways, right? whom she later alleged helped Whether you followed her hide evidence of Caylee’s the Casey Anthony scandal or death after accidentally drownheard bits and pieces from the ing in the family’s swimming frenzied media, you couldn’t pool. help but be captivated by the It has been said that beautiful doe-eyed little girl Casey, 22, had previously wantstaring back at you from magaed to put her daughter up for zines and screens, and you adoption, but it was Casey’s couldn’t help but be repulsed by mother who convinced her oththe party pictures of Casey durerwise. It also was Cindy who ing her daughter’s month-long was the first to report Caylee absence. The facts of the case missing, which brings us back are not clear, however the chillto Casey’s parents, whose suspiing truth is: a young mother cions were pushed to the limit refused to report her 2-year-old on the day that George was notidaughter missing for over 30 fied Casey’s car was left in a days and instead spent that time tow yard. Upon picking up the visibly celebrating, apathetic vehicle, George supposedly and unconcerned of her daughnoticed a strong odor coming ter’s whereabouts. from the trunk. Found in the It began on June 16, trunk was a garbage bag filled 2008, when Casey took Caylee, with Caylee’s clothes, yet when leaving the house of her parents, detectives later seized this bag, Cindy and George. During the they were told that Cindy had month they were gone, Cindy washed them to get rid of their repeatedly called Casey, asking odor. to see her granddaughter.

On July 15, 2008, Casey’s response each and Cindy Anthony reported to the every time? Caylee was “busy” Orange County Sheriff’s Office with her new nanny while she

that Caylee had been missing for over a month, she believed something was wrong, and that she “found my daughter's car today and it smells like there's been a dead body in the damn car." Immediately following Cindy’s report, Casey finally called 911, confirming that her daughter had been missing for 31 days. Months later, Caylee’s body was found in the woods near the Anthony home, her skeletal remains in a garbage bag, her mouth duct-taped.

Did Casey Anthony murder her child in order to free herself from the constraints of motherhood and indulge in a carefree party lifestyle? Or did her father George help Casey cover up Caylee’s death after she accidently drowned in their pool? If Casey was innocent, why would she create such elaborate lies? Most importantly, why didn’t Casey Anthony report her daughter missing for over a month, all the while acting as if nothing was amiss?

Unfortunately, no clear-cut answers were uncovered during the trial. After viewing over 400 pieces of evidence and listening to over 100 witness testimonies, a sequestered jury deliberated for about eleven hours and exonerated her of first degree murder. Casey Anthony received a guilty verdict on four misdemeanor counts, the maximum time served during her prior three years in jail. How could Casey have been found innocent?

Some have said it was because of Casey’s attorney, Jose Baez, who created enough reasonable doubt to get Casey acquitted based on the suspicion that Casey’s father George, had something to do with the murder. Others have blamed the state’s case, claiming they lacked sufficient DNA or other physical evidence to link Casey to the crime, relying more on emotion than fact, which obviously backfired. Regardless, in the wee hours of July 17, 2011, barely three years after Caylee’s death, Casey walked out of the Orange County jail a free woman.

Since her release, Casey has received death threats, as well as numerous offers for millions of dollars for her story. Casey’s attorney is said to be assisting in her need of elaborate security in concern for her safety. On the flip side, the jurors of the case have also received threats on their life, causing one juror to quit her job move to another state. Other jurors have also endured verbal and physical attacks by protesters, causing their lives to be lived under severe scrutiny and stress.

That, my friends, is our justice system in all its’ tantalizing splendor and glory. Did it serve a young child’s death fairly and honorable in this case?

You be the judge.

To My Mother

BY NELSON BAKER

I’ve searched the world over for something that just might strike a chord in you.

I sat with you for hours, begging and pleading, so many times.

I’ve shown you how much I love you, mom, with tears on my face. But nothing seems to make an impact on your decision to continue smoking. My worst fear - our worst fear - is that you will succumb to lung cancer, just like Dad. If there is even the smallest chance that you could change your mind, I want to know that, together, we eventually found it. If there isn’t, I know that there has to be some way that someone or something can open your eyes

know you do.

Last night, I lay in bed, awake for hours. After seeing you over the weekend, my head was flooded with thoughts of you - worries. You are such a generous, selfless and sweet woman. It kills me to know that you are still smoking, that the damage it inflicts could take you away at any time.

If smoking is all you have, as you say, what about your heart? Your heart is what I believe defines you. It is the strongest part of you. You can do anything by it, including give up this thing you have grown accustomed to. Smoking can be replaced, and though you may not be able to imagine this now, you will feel so much bet-

A sunset in Boston

sooner rather than later. You mean too much for me not to believe in that.

I know that you cannot quit smoking unless you really want to. You have been smoking for about forty years now, and I can’t imagine how difficult it would be to stop something after that long. But every time I watch your labored coughing, or hear that you were having some trouble breathing, I fear that the end could soon be here for you. I am hoping with all my heart that my mind is creating premature thoughts and you are not actually sick at all, but it is so hard to not have any power over the outcome of this situation. All I can do, I realize, is write this plea to not only you, but to anyone out there who may be reading this. You are all important in the life of others, and this one decision could change so much in their lives, and yours.

At 56, you are not by any means old, regardless of what you think. To give up on life now would be to forfeit so many years of memories, laughs, or the chance to see and experience something unforgettable. I see your spirit. You have the strength to believe in this – I

ter in time.

When I think about how happy you were when I brought you that chicken that you love so much, it reassures me that you are grateful for little things, and need little to make you happy. I am grateful to know that you are here with us, and that you can still act like a kid sometimes, that you smile.

Most importantly, your presence makes a difference in my life that I will never be able to fully describe. All that I do is backed by the goodness that you have, and I don’t want to have to remember you. Not yet. You have long to live.

I know there are others who feel this way, and would do anything for smoking to be taken out of someone’s life. I know that I speak for my brother, my sisters, and thousands and thousands of others. There are so many people who smoke, and so many people whose lives could be affected by the effects of cigarettes. We are, in a way, powerless to it all. Maybe all we have to fight it is our words, and our love. Maybe love is what will change people’s minds. I love you mom. Please find it in yourself to make the right decision.

We need your written

opinions to fill up this page!

Send us your opinion about anything! Up to 500 words. Preferably in MS Word Document.

Send to pennon@northshore.edu It will be edited for spelling and grammar.

Opinions and editorials are not necessarily those of The Pennon.

September 2011:May Issue.QXD

8/23/11

5:57 PM

Page 8

PAGE 8 – NSCC PENNON

Goobye Charlie Sheen: Hello Ashton Kutcher!

BY NICK STILIANOS

It is time to call up James Earl Jones again because sadly, Charlie Harper has died for real. When the new season of Two and a Half Men makes its debut to television on September 19th, it will start out with the funeral of the “invinci-

Warner Bros studio has ended with Charlie Harper being written out of the script and replaced with a fresh face. So who better to replace Sheen then former 70s show star Ashton Kutcher?

“Ashton Kutcher will be starring as Walden Schmidt, “an Internet billionaire with a

Angus T. Jones, Ashton Kutcher, and Jon Cryer: stars of Two and a Half Men

ble” Charlie Harper.

Just when you think someone has cleaned their act up and is willing to change, they just keep lying to themselves, and nothing changes. Season 8 of Two and a Half Men was probably the toughest season in the making due to Charlie Sheen’s constant trips to rehab/hospital and asking for more money. His attitude not only got him fired from the show, but also cut production of the show from 24 episodes down to 16.

The conclusion of the battle waging with Charlie Sheen, Chuck Lorre, and

broken heart,” says CBS president Nina Tassler. The specifies will be revealed over time.

Charlie Sheen may be through with the show, but that does not stop Ashton Kutcher from being TVs new highestpaid actor bringing in a sum of $700K an episode. However, his contract is only good for this season. Originally, the salary numbers for the “Men” stars were at $1.8 million for Sheen, $550,000 for Jon Cryer, and $250,000 for Angus T. Jones.

All I have to say is that “this is going to be one of the biggest television premieres in history.”

Transformers:

Dark of the Moon

BY NELSON BAKER

As this conflict between Decepticons and Autobots cause a rift within the military, Sam Witwicky (LaBeouf) wants more than ever to help; but this time, they are not interested.

While struggling to land a good job and arguing with his girlfriend, who wants

Decepticons took over the city.

It is a visually stunning battle between Autobots and Decepticons, Witwicky and Carly’s boss, military and futuristic robots, good and evil.

Office towers topple onto each other, explosions rupture the ground and in the air, military servicemen die honorably for

the summer, it appears his reputation is still soaring.

Shia LaBeouf, Tyrese Gibson, Josh Duhamel, and John Turturro all return, while Patrick Dempsey and John Malkovich add a new touch to the film. Creating a lot of commotion is newcomer Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, a gorgeous former model who plays LaBeouf’s love interest, replacing controversial actress Megan Fox. Whiteley was a popular Victoria’s Secret model before landing her first acting role as Carly in this third installment of the trilogy.

The film quickly uncovers an interesting storyline in which a craft from Cybertron was found during the first walk on the moon way back in 1969, but was kept secret.

When this information is finally discovered, so begins the Decepticons attempt to steal it, along with military-guarded documents that together, could give its owner ultimate power over the world.

him to remain safe by staying out of it, Witwicky decides, of course, to help anyway. After recruiting Agent Simmons (Turturro), and learning some interesting things from a an unusual coworker, Witwicky heads to the center of the action – Chicago.

Witwicky meets up with Master Sergeant Epps (Gibson) and his men, who try to stop some of the destruction that has ensued since the

their country, and military base jumpers, led by Lt. Lennox (Duhamel), jump off the Sears Tower with flight suits, flying through downtown Chicago like they were crafts themselves.

Throughout the epic battle scene that lasts for about an hour, there are many other surprises. With plenty to see and experience, and several mesmerizing Transformer battles, this is one film that is worthy of your time.

Michael Bay has directed another wildly successful, big-budget film to add to an impressive resume that includes “The Rock,” “Armageddon,” and “Pearl Harbor.” With “Transformers 3: Dark of the Moon” making a fortune over

Shia LaBeouf and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley

September 2011:May Issue.QXD

8/23/11

5:57 PM

Page 9

Celebrities Birthdays

BY NICK STILIANOS

Birth Date

September 2,1964 September 2, 1968 September 2, 1951 September 3, 1965 September 4, 1981 September 9, 1966 September 15, 1946 September 22, 1987 September 25, 1968 September 28, 1987

Facts:

Names

Age

Keanu Reeves (The Matrix) 47 Salma Hayek (Grown-Ups) 43 Mark Harmon ( NCIS) 60 Charlie Sheen (Two and a Half Men) 46 Beyonce Knowles (Single Ladies) 30 Adam Sandler (Just Go With It) 45 Tommy Lee Jones (The Fugitive) 65 Tom Felton (Harry Potter ) 24 Will Smith (Hancock) 43 Hilary Duff (Come Clean) 24

PAGE 9 – NSCC PENNON

Dullea’s Boxing

Most people agree that to stay in shape, you need to workout. Being active is just not enough. Many people have home gyms, cardio machines, training videos, punching bags,

International Boxing Tournament, and his team won first place.

Currently, Dullea works as an investigator for the Essex County District Attorney’s office, and of course, runs his gym.

end with fifteen minutes of ab work.

There are usually about five or six fighters at any given time training in this gym.

The rest are there for the workout. Often, those training for a fight will spar in the ring during

and have had success working out on their own. They may feel satisfied with the process, and maybe even their results.

Sometimes, though, to see significant improvements, to push yourself beyond your limits, you need instruction.

John Dullea, boxing coach and class instructor, is a lifelong hard worker and asset to society. “When I was a little

Dullea’s Boxing thrives with people of all ages, men, women, teenagers, people who just want a great workout.

In response to why his classes are so popular, Dullea said, “I push them pretty good, and I think that’s what they want.”

Classes run on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6:30-7:30pm, Fridays from 5:00-6:00pm, Saturdays 10:00-

class, or work on something specific to their needs. Set up throughout the gym are about fifteen heavy bags, two speed bags, two focus balls, an uppercut bag, and of course, the ring.

Among some of the fighters in the club are Nathan Dragon and Charlie Espinal, both of whom won the Rocky Marciano Tournament. Espinal also won the Junior Olympics in his division.

Chris Leonard won the Marciano Tournament, and then went on to become a Second Lieutenant in the United States Army.

John Blodgett beat two Golden Gloves champions.

Golden Gloves is the biggest tournament of the year.

Trainer and master fighter Greg Rich is undefeated with over thirty fights on his record. Derrick Rando is also undefeated.

Depending on how hard they train, and their progress, it may take anywhere from three to six months to get into the ring. “There’s no hurry.

I never push people in the ring, ever. Conditioning is number one,” Dullea insisted.

Dullea’s gym is not a stranger to NSCC. Besides myself, I have seen in regular attendance both students and staff from the college.

Returning to the question of why this gym is so popular, I’ll add that John Dullea is not only a great instructor and trainer, but he is an all around good guy.

He provides a comfortable atmosphere in which to work out at any level of ability, and will give you the motivation to push far beyond.

Dullea’s Boxing is located at 119 R Foster Street in Peabody.

The gym is on the third floor, above Larry Leavitt’s Fitness & Self Defense

BY NELSON BAKER

- Both Tommy Lee Jones and Will Smith will be back in a third installment to “Men in Black” coming out on May 25, 2012. This is also Will Smith’s first movie in 3.5 years.

- Mark Harmon has signed a new contract on his hit show NCIS earning him $500,000 an episode for the new season coming up.

- Adam Sandler’s net worth stands at $350 million.

- Beyonce’s name came from her mother’s maiden name. Her mother’s birth name was Celestine Ann Beyonce. Her name is now Tina Knowles.

Jane’s Addiction:

The Great Escape Artist

BY NELSON BAKER

On September 27, Jane’s Addiction will release The Great Escape Artist, their first album in eight years, with the single “Irresistible Force” which is making waves. Since they started in 1985, they have only released three albums, this one being their fourth. The band

Farrell’s philosophizing.”

I was always one to like a song primarily for one thing – the sound. Isn’t that what music is supposed to be all about? Of course, if you can relate to the lyrics, then it is even better.

When I hear a song, especially that first time, it either makes me feel a certain way, or it doesn’t affect me at all. This song affected me. Not

Jane’s Addiction because of its lyrics or what I has had its share of differences may or may not have been able but they are back, and really, to “get” out of its message, but who cares about all the rest? in the way that it made me feel.

Jane’s Addiction was a Farrell has a catchy voice that popular band, and some of their meshes well with the rest of the songs were good, but none of band’s talent. them really stayed with me.

Picture yourself at a They were different, and I think concert, hearing a talented band that’s why I paid attention to play the kind of music you love. begin with. With the new single They turn up the amplifiers, and still ringing in my ears, I can say pretty much every other piece of with all honesty, all that I never equipment.

Sometimes it is so liked about the band has been loud that you can’t quite hear forgiven, because this song has the lyrics clearly, but the music turned my head. is powerful; it hits you with all Will Hermes of its might, and you are loving it, Rolling Stone wrote that especially your favorite songs.

Irresistible Force “comes on That experience stays with you like an art-metal freak show set for years.

That’s what music is on some distant planet.” I have all about.

And when I listen to to say, doesn’t his description this song, I feel its strength, its make the song sound even more might.

Whether or not the lyrics appealing? are kooky or majestic doesn’t He writes about lead make much difference. In fact, singer Perry Farrell’s “majestic” maybe it actually makes the lyrics, basically saying that his song even more unique and words are irrelevant. Then he interesting.

After all, mystery writes, “Giant guitar swarms never fails to entice. from Dave Sitek and Dave Navarro soon blow away

Speed bags

kid, I don’t know, three or four years old, I asked for a pair of boxing gloves for Christmas,” Dullea said. “Boxing has been my favrite sport since I can remember.”

Dullea worked for the Peabody and Salem Police, including a position as Sergeant.

In 2004, he coached the State Police Boxing Team at the

12:00pm, and just added, Wednesdays and Fridays from 8:30-9:30am.

The classes consist of a series of cardio drills that get your blood flowing and your muscles warm and loose, sets of the basic punches including the jab, cross, hook, speed drills, power punches, and more. We do several sets of push-ups, and

The ring

September 2011:May Issue.QXD

8/23/11

5:57 PM

Page 10

PAGE 10– NSCC PENNON

CREATIVE

WRITING

Lady In Waiting

BY DEBBIE SCARFO

I am Queen of the Night guarding my fortress, in fright of the dawn that never comes but lies still, in wake. I dream of another’s life; the stunning starlet who roams a California cliff with her 4th husband, winners of the attachment game, circling around like vultures again and again, waiting for the show to begin. I dream of a cowboy with a jaunty step who loves horses, farms, and tumbleweeds, loves his wife more than the land itself. He stands still, searching, scanning his fields. Sand runs through my veins, keeping gauzy sleep. I dream of kissing a magic man performing tricks, wading by the shore. He screams for me to swoop down for him, or surrender to the Germans; mindless chatter amounting to nothing. I finally get my prize.

I will not settle for what I behold, for it is time to give up the chalice and drink, start over and pour the cake batter into the wind. See where it lands me.

Every day I do it for kicks, like Betty Grable and Dr. Doolittle, even if I don’t want to. I’m caught in the barrel, nowhere to go but up. Get me there as fast as you can or they will cut me loose, slicing me open for all to see. A stitched heart knows that those closest will hurt you the most. They lie to themselves and don’t look back, their centers black, only to move forth and conquer their followers. The failed visions and hopes, the never-get-there struggles, the achieved and lost, the given and endured will be for not, and all touched will have no meaning. The lucky ones land at the top, only later to discover it is a long way down to paradise. I am an eagle soaring, watching myself below, flying on and on for infinity, or until I plummet. Maybe we never really arrive and just don’t know it yet.

The Baby Walks

BY JESSICA TOWER

The baby walked, all alone. The stairs she saw were not like home. The man appeared. Heat filled the air. He led her up into his lair.

No one, it seemed, was home at all. Yet a haunting feeling still filled the hall. The stairs went on for much too long. The baby wondered if she had been wrong.

A door to the left the man made her pass. What the baby saw almost made her gasp. Finally, a face, after what seemed like hours. But all this face could do was cower.

The man then forced the baby into a room of mirrors. She wanted to scream, but no one would hear her.

What happened next is for you to guess. The baby, poor baby, had nothing left. Swirling and twirling, everything rearranged. Clicking and trickling, she screamed her mother’s name. The baby was gone and never would come back.

The pain she felt would forever last.

Now you know why the baby is herself. Can you imagine how she felt? The baby is how she is. So much anxiety makes it hard to live.

But the baby walks…

New York 09.11.2001 (ten years ago)

BY ROZI THEOHARI

Oh, what noble mind is here o’erthrown!”

--Shakespeare— Could I weep like him Lamenting, mourning, regretting The World Trade Center tragedy?

After the suicide airplanes I see

A couple of scared pigeons fly through the Smoke’s wreath—reaching the sky Raising on their wings thousands of sacrificial spirits.

A good omen Amen

Amen

Amen

By grace let humankind find the right path. ( September 11, 2001)

Second Chance

BY NELSON BAKER

Every time I think about that night, it breaks my heart I can’t even describe how horrified I was When I saw you twisting and jerking Staring blindly off into the distance Trapped in a world with no memories I swore you would say something, but you didn’t Cradling your head and your face, I told you to stay with me That I love you baby Your eyes rolled back Convulsions shifted your body Still hoping you would say something to me That you could breathe at least And then you frothed at the mouth I thought your lips turned blue But maybe my eyes were fooling themselves Giving in to the fear That I would lose you, my girl, forever Knowing I could do little for you I told them to hurry, that you needed them fast When your breathing came back, I had hope again I just wanted to keep hearing the air entering your body I kissed your face so many times, and then you looked at me You came back to me Your eyes opened And so did mine

50th Anniversary of Your Birth

BY ROZI THEOHARI

Dear Barack Obama, As a mom giving birth To my daughter in 1961, The same historic (prophetic) year that you were born, I am wishing you well on your Birthday!

I won’t say My President, but—my son— Blessed together with thousands of American women To replace the loss of your devoted mother!

Would she feel every pulse Of your 50 years’ life progression Until today, America heavy on your shoulder? […]

Gentlemen, you who insist on Obama’s birth certificate…

More than a piece of paper This identification is incised On the eyes of his mother Who watches him from on high With delight With heavenly, motherly pride.

Happy Birthday, Mister President!

September 2011:May Issue.QXD

8/23/11

5:57 PM

Page 11

The Wood

BY JESSICA TOWER

The path was rocky. It was filled with thorns, and plants and animals of which she did not know by name, but knew that they were dangerous.

She glided through with ease, some mystical force allowing her to pass through unscathed.

The girl drifted for what seemed like centuries, but for what was only minutes. The ending was unclear the entire time, but felt worthy of waiting through this unknown difference from the

could be seen above the tops of the trees, where unknown numbers of birds flew.

The birds enchanted the girl. She watched them flying with ease, and heard them singing beautiful songs of peace. The distance she felt, as well as the feeling of being grounded as much as it is possible, was enhanced when she saw the countless animals walking around the wood, as if they had always been there. She did not remember the animals being there when she arrived, but

PAGE 11 – NSCC PENNON

A Stone’s Throw Away

BY DEBBIE SCARFO

The waves crashed against the boulders of the Maine coast, spraying droplets in the cool air surrounding him, drifting icy water to shore. It creeps past his feet, foaming bubbles around his ankles, numbing his toes, slicing through skin. He cannot feel this, numb as he is, void of any emotion or consciousness.

Memories flood him, but he pushes them back to the recesses of oblivion.

The sun begins to warm his pallid skin through his shirt, ripened from days of wearing, but he stands still, frigid and distant as the sea itself. His head hangs low, slumped against his chest, heavy as his heart. He looks down and sees a stone, glistening onyx glossed by years of erosion. He bends down and holds it in his trembling fingers.

The rock is smooth and cold to

the touch, and this he feels.

Arm arching back, he skims it against the choppy surface.

“Plip, plip, plop!” Twice it dances before sinking beneath the crushing waves.

He closes his eyes, envisioning lower limbs moving toward the depths of where this stone has been banished, longing to end the emptiness inside him, lost at sea. He feels his damaged soul dissolving with the salty liquid consuming him, drowning his despair, squeezing his lungs and seeping out his

pores - tears he no longer lets fall. This, this is easy - this ease of submission. His body sways, moving fluidly under the water’s depths, suspended between daily death and dying as the pain returns, rushing in his ears, pounding to the beat of the waves which surround him.

He opens his eyes, the sun burning away the shadows of his thoughts. He takes a breath, a deep, shaky breath, and turns, beginning his walk back to consciousness.

“Imagine That”

world she once thought she knew.

The girl landed with ease, caring not what was there, and knowing she was safe. She looked around her, as that seemed the right thing to do, and found she was in a very small clearing in what looked

then… when did she arrive? It did not matter, as time is but a concept, and the unity and wholeness she felt were overwhelmingly perfect.

The animals glided, as she had glided coming in. There were all types of animals, and they were all harmless and at

Manatees

like a large wood. But it was not a large wood at all. She had no idea what it was, but that did not seem to matter to her. It was magical.

The trees changed in a way that would be impossible to describe. Their leaves did not change, but it was not the trunk, nor was it the dirt below. It was more of a change in the perspective of the entire wood. It was a change in the perspective of life itself. The trees became one with the grass, the leaves, and the water in the center of the clearing. They became one with the sliver of bright blue sky that

peace. There were manatees in the water, and rabbits, goats, and baby piglets in the grass.

There were mystical creatures far and wide, as indescribable as the wood itself.

The clearing stretched on, yet it was small and safe.

The girl was one with the wood.

She was one with life itself. But she was herself, as well. She was all-knowing and at peace.

The girl knew that everything she needed was there in that clearing. Anything necessary would come to her. The girl had found the meaning of life.

BY NELSON BAKER

When Thomas died in a horrific head-on-collision on Interstate 95, his son Timmothy wept uncontrollably. He cursed God; he could not understand why his daddy, who was nicer than any grownup he had ever met, had to die in such a way.

He was only eight.

Though his wife Jamie remarried within a year, Timmy took it hard, isolating himself for several months, but eventually grew into a strong, mature young man who would never take anything for granted.

During one of his vacations with his wife, Carrie, he was confronted by a man who lived on the streets of Mexico, just outside their beautiful resort. The man grabbed him from behind and pulled him into the shadows on the side of the building they were walking past.

Without saying a word and with extreme placidity, Timmothy slipped out of his grasp, turned and grabbed his wrist, all in one swift motion, before the man had a chance to even see what was happening.

Timmothy immediately stepped on the blade of the knife, cracking it in two. The man backstepped slowly, expecting to be rushed by him, maybe even killed. But instead, knowing all too well the value of a life, Timmothy looked at him with powerful eyes, a stare that had great meaning to him, and to his attacker.

“I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have... I’m sorry.”

“Leave,” Timmothy ordered him, threatening, with

Dominoes

his rigid, but ready stance that he might change his mind and kill him anyway. Timmothy was no longer a shy, timid type.

The man sprinted away, and soon, he would not have it in him anymore to steal from another person. In fact, a few years later, he cleaned himself up completely.

During a drug rehabili-

were influenced by Greg’s genuity and his spirit, many of whom were addicts already.

The ones who paid attention, and even some who blindly wandered into his shows, were very much affected.

Across the country, new stories of inspiration and hope came to be known. Over many years, these stories would

tation program that he had once attended, he met a man named Gregory Nimbles. He shared his story with Greg, down to the details of the fear he felt after Timmothy stopped his robbery attempt. The story served as a prime example of how people can change their ways in this world - that we have the potential to be good, in even times of violence and despair.

In time, Greg became a speaker for young college students throughout the country.

He made it a point to mention his Mexican friend’s story, and the fact that this one encounter changed him forever. There was discussion, on hundreds of occasions, on whether or not Timmothy should have retaliated, and that if he had, they may not even be hearing this speech today.

Scores of students

serve as examples, as true experiences of those who were once walking the line between good and evil, between life and death.

Lives were saved, physically and emotionally. Good prevailed.

We may not understand why tragedy strikes, and may never, as the reasons are often hidden from us for our entire lives.

If Thomas didn’t die in that horrible car accident on 95, the future of that event would not have unraveled in the same way. Though it may feel impossible to control your emotions, or remain “good,” when bad things happen, it is so important to try with all your heart. You never know. One, seemingly small decision could change ten thousand lives over time.

September 2011:May Issue.QXD

8/23/11

5:57 PM

Page 12

PAGE 12 – NSCC PENNON

FALL FEST Join Student life as we host another Fall Fest event! Fall Fest is to be held in Danvers on Wednesday, September 14th in the Berry Building lobby and in Lynn on Friday, September 16th in the main hall and Cafeteria from 10am-1pm.

Fall Fest offers you the opportunity to showcase your services in an engaging and fun way. This event provides students, faculty and staff with a way to learn more about the wealth of resources that exist here at our College as well as to share ideas and to pick up materials in a one-stop shop.

Participants in the past have creatively enticed attendees to stop by their tables by simulating game shows, offering free candy, and by dressing the part of their department’s role or selected theme. Be creative!

Student attendees have also been able to get free raffle tickets by stopping at multiple tables. The more tables they visited the more tickets they got to deposit at the prize table. Prize donations are also welcome, but are no longer a requirement for you to participate in this event.

We hope to see you there!

New Team Leaders

Student Life is pleased to announce that Farah Ahmad and Michael Nguyen have been selected to serve as the student team leaders for the 2012 New Orleans Labor of Love Service Trip. As team leaders they will help recruit, select and train team members as well as organize, plan and oversee fund-raising activities to support this trip. They will also be available to guide, motivate and introduce students to this amazing life altering experience.

Having served as members of last year’s service trip which was one of the requirements for applying for this position, they are experienced, energetic and ready to develop close working relationships with the trip coordinators and their peers.

Members of Phi Theta Kappa, both have additionally succeeded in navigating and balancing their academics coursework with a number of co-curricular activities. They serve as positive role models are outgoing, supportive and genuinely interested in helping others.

Please join me in congratulating them in their new roles.

Michael Mguyen and Farah Ahmad

New Orleans Labor of Love Information Sheet

Fall Gala Seeks to Raise $40,000 for NSCC Students

With the goal of raising $40,000 for student scholarships, equipment for health programs and its Believe in Lynn initiative, North Shore Community College (NSCC) and the NSCC Foundation will hold an Investing in a Sustainable North Shore Gala on October 6 at the Black Swan Country Club in Georgetown.

The 6 – 9 p.m. event will feature food, entertainment by pianist Phil Porter and the Salem Theatre Company and silent and live auctions.

Specifically, funds raised will support: student scholarships; equipment for the health programs, including state of the art radiologic technology equipment and simulation suites. The equipment will be housed in NSCC’s new Health Professions & Student Services Building on the Danvers Campus and will transform the way the college educates the regions future health providers; and programs and projects comprised under NSCC’s Believe in Lynn Initiative which supports scholarships for Lynn youth and other Lynn residents who are transitioning to NSCC, college readiness programs with Lynn schools to prepare students for college level courses, community programming through NSCC’s Public Policy Institute, workforce development partnerships with Lynn businesses and the expansion of NSCC’s Lynn campus.

We hope you will plan on attending the event or take advantage of the online auction.

Here’s how you can participate: - Attend the event! Purchase tickets at www.northshore.edu/giving - Donate an auction item - Bid online- Go to www.biddingforgood.com beginning September 22.

Place your bid for fabulous auction items including certificates to great restaurants, sports memorabilia and events and activities for families and friends.

NSCC’s Labor of Love Committee is looking for 11 students to volunteer in New Orleans from January 3rd -13th, 2012.

Students selected will be assisting other volunteer groups in the Hurricane affected areas of this city who do not have the resources or power to rebuild their neighborhoods and homes without the support of volunteers. The work will be physical and at times emotional, but also rewarding. We will be gutting, cleaning, and helping local residents with their needs. Students will have the opportunity to learn more about New Orleans, to develop new friendships, increase knowledge of self and gain a deeper understanding of social issues.

Housing will be provided by the United Methodist Church communal style in bunk beds or if you prefer on the floor on air mattresses. We will have access to kitchen facilities, showers and bathrooms during our stay. We will be responsible for preparing our own meals and will have opportunities to eat at a few restaurants. Please note that all College rules and policies will apply on this trip. NSCC is a drug and alcohol free campus, so this will be a drug and alcohol free trip. Any student who violates this policy will be subject to disciplinary action upon return.

Transportation will be by air and vans. The cost will be absorbed by fundraising efforts on behalf of the Labor of Love Committee and members of the NSCC Student Association. Each student will be required however to pre-pay $200.00 toward the cost of groceries and housing. Students may also wish to bring additional money for incidentals.

Six years after Hurricane Katrina; the need has never been greater. Join us in making a difference.

Apply to volunteer your time and skills. The rewards of caring await you.

Applications to apply for this service trip are available from the Office of Student Life in Lynn LW171 and in Danvers DB132. The Deadline to apply and submit all the required documentation is September For more information contact Tatiana Burgos-Espinal, Director of 21, 2011. Questions may be directed to the Director of Student Life, Lisa Milso at lmilso@northshore.edu. Development at 978-739-5527 or tespinal@northshore.edu

September 2011:May Issue.QXD

8/23/11

5:57 PM

Page 13

Club News Club Directory

A FRICAN S OCI ETY : LOVE MAYA A VIATI ON : JOHN BOSCO B GLAD: TIFFANY MAGNOLIA B IOL OGI CAL S CIENCE C LUB : SCOTT STIMPSON C HRI ST O N C AMPUS : TIM WHITMAN C IVIC E NGAGEMENT : LAURIE MESSINA C RIMI NAL J USTICE : CONSTANTINE SOURIS & ANN KOSHIVAS E CONOMICS & F I NANCE : MOONSU HAN E NGI NEER ING : MARY BETH STEIGERWALD F OOD S CIENCE & S AFETY : GREG REPPUCCI F RENCH & S PANISH C LUB : IRENE FERNANDEZ M AR KETING : PATRICIA MANNINEN M EDI A C LUB : J IM H ARR INGTON M UL TI -C UL TURAL S OCIETY : ESPY HERRERA ANKANA BARUA M USL IM A SSOCI ATION : YUSEF HAYES N URSI NG C L ASS F RESHMAN : LINDA GOODALE N URSI NG C L ASS S OPHMORE : LORINDA LATVA P HI T HETA K APPA : FRED ALTIERI P HILOSOPHY C LUB : FRED ALTIERI P OETS & W RITERS : JOE BOYD P SYCHED FOR P SYCH : KRISTIN ERBETTA Q UEER S TRAIGHT A L LIANCE : ANNE TABET AND VICTORIA PASCIUTO R ESPIR ATORY C ARE : LEN LEBLANC SOTA: PATRICIA BANKS RUTH DELISIO S TUDENT A RT C LUB : JAMES CHISHOLM S URF C LUB : SEAN HANLON V ETERANS C LUB : MIKE SMITH W OMEN I N T RANSITION : MARGARET FIGGINS-HILL Y OUTH G ROUP U NITED : ALEXANDER GUZMAN

LE219 X.6693 DB366 X.5592 LW229 X.6622 LW288 X.6288 ...................................

LW366 X.5512 DB366 X.5419 DB367C X.5418 DB367 X.5456 LW321 X.6650 DH216 X.4375 DB367A X.5442 LE306 X.6665 LE307 X 2159 LW113 X.6274 LW113 X.6274 DB367B X.5414 DH206 X.4438 DH206 X.4427 DB267H X.5556 DB267H X.5556 LE232 X.6238 DB367E X.5580 DH106 X.4051

P ENNON : VICTORIA PASCIUTO P ER FORMI NG A RTS C OUNCIL : MATTHEW WOODS P ROGRAM C OUNCI L : VICTORIA PASCIUTO S TUDENT G OVERNMENT : VICTORIA PASCIUTO W OMEN ’ S C ENTER : VICTORIA PASCIUTO

DB125 LW172 DB125 LW125 DB125

DH203 DH 203 DH 223 DB366A DB367E DH106 DB366B LW157

Organizations

X.4170 X.4174 X. 4168 X.5548 X.5467 X.4368 X.5515 X.6601

x.5471 x.6228 x.5471 x5471 x.5471

Attention Club Advisors and Members!

Information about your club can be featured here!

This is your page and if you want other people to know about your club or what your club is doing, then contact us!

PENNON@NORTHSHORE.EDU

Join Program Council!

THIS GROUP PLANS AND COORDINATES A VARIETY OF SOCIAL, CULTURAL, AND ENTERTAINMENT PROGRAMS FOR THE ENTIRE COLLEGE COMMUNITY. PAST ACTIVITIES HAVE INCLUDED AIR BRUSH T-SHIRTS, PSYCHIC READINGS, AND MASSAGE THERAPY. FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT VICTORIA PASCIUTO AT (978) 762-4000 X5471 OR VPASCIUT@NORTHSHORE.EDU.

Pennon

PAGE 13 – NSCC PENNON

Fall is back, and the NSCC student newspaper is once again looking for new people to submit, join the Pennon staff, or give us ideas to better the paper.

We are looking for students: With a general interest in writing Who can edit articles With experience with Quark, Adobe Photoshop, layout, or would like to learn That would like to design new headers for our paper With almost anything at all to say, and would like their voice to be heard by the student body

This is a student-run newspaper, and we make most of the final decisions. We represent the entire school, and each and every one of you. Without your help, without your creative insight or your new ideas, little will change. And without your words, your voice, you won’t be heard. So read through the latest issue, and maybe something will pique your interest.

Welcome to the school, and welcome back to all returning students!

The deadline for submissions is the 15th of every month The Pennon office is located in the Berry Building at DB127

New Student Club at NSCC: The Environmetal Club

NSCC continues to "go green!” Bringing "sustainability" to the NSCC campus has many components. Maybe the most important - beyond education - is student involvement. Last semester, a large group of students on both the Lynn and Danvers campuses came together to create a forum and studentactivist network for environmental issues at NSCC and beyond. Many students are members of the college's new Environmental Studies Program (EVT) or are taking Green Curriculum courses at NSCC. Others are active in the popular Philosophy Club (yes, philosophy and environment have come together around the topics of ethics and justice). Many students feel the need to empower themselves and meet likeminded people who share their concerns and desire to make changes, small and large.

This inspired and diverse group will be meeting regularly on both campuses and is open to new members. All levels of involvement are acceptable - from regular to occasional, which acknowledges the reality of our busy, commuter-student population. If you wish to be on the Environmental Club e-mail list so you can be informed of upcoming campus events, meetings, and opportunities for activism, please email Franci Daluz fdaluz01@northshore.edu or Professors Joe Modugno and Greg Reppucci, who are serving as co-faculty advisers to the club. (Prof. Modugno is based in Lynn; Prof. Reppucci is in Danvers).

The group has also established a Facebook page. Check it out Get involved on any level that works for you!

As anthropologist Margaret Mead said, "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has."

Engineering Club

Welcome to a new semester. If you are an engineering student or interested in engineering, the following are some of the frequently asked questions and answers to help you get familiar with the engineering programs and advising process. You are encouraged to attend the Fall Fest on Friday, September 16 from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM to meet with your advisors and the officers from the Engineering Club.

Q. What is Engineering Club?

A. Engineering Club is a student organization that consists of engineering students or anyone who is interested in engineering. The Club advisor is Professor Mary Beth Steigerwald. The officers include President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer. New officers are elected in early April. The club meetings provide an opportunity for engineering students to meet to discuss any subjects that concern or interest them. It can be viewing videos of engineering marvels, discussions of engineering events and course problems, inviting guest speakers, or just a relaxing social hour.

Q. What is the difference between Pre-Engineering (PET) and Engineering Science Transfer (EST)?

A. Pre-Engineering is designed for students who need to take remedial math courses such as elementary algebra and pre-calculus. The pre-requisite math for Engineering Science Transfer Program is Pre-calculus 2.

Q. When can I change from PET to EST? A. Your advisor will help you fill out a form once you complete calculus1, 2, physics 1, 2, and general chemistry 1, 2 Q. Why are there three physics courses instead of the two courses that most of the four-year colleges are required?

A. There are two reasons for it. First, the Engineering Department faculty who teach both physics and engineering courses recognize the strong correlation between a strong physics foundation and a successful engineering study. Past NSCC engineering graduates have contributed to their success to the solid foundation in math and physics that they have experienced at NSCC. Secondly, the engineering graduates are transferring to different engineering colleges therefore the three physics courses will ensure to cover most of the curricula at four-year colleges.

A. Bring your program sheet (from Student Support Center or online) and transcript (from "School Services" in Pipeline).

September 2011:May Issue.QXD

8/23/11

5:57 PM

Page 14

PAGE 14 – NSCC PENNON

Have fun, gain confidence, and succeed beyond your wildest dreams!

By Lisa A. Milso lmilso@northshore.edu

Paws Picks of the Month

TANYA GREEN

Sign up now for the FREE Annual Student Life Leadership Ropes Course in Danvers DB132 or Lynn LW171. The Leadership Ropes Course is an experientially based 1 day outdoor personal development and team building workshop consisting of a series of low and high structured games and activities known as elements.

Low elements take place on the ground or only a few feet above the ground. High elements are constructed in trees or made of utility poles and require a belay for safety.

The activities are designed to motivate and encourage new ways of thinking and to address common experiences while incorporating an element of fun.

It is an exciting, exhilarating and creative way to overcome your perceived limitations or fears, develop leadership skills and meet new friends.

Our day will begin with a series of ice-breakers and trust building activities followed by more challenging activities. Each activity will be introduced, played out, and processed through group discussion prior to moving on to the next one.

Activities are designed to emphasize teamwork and to enhance your effectiveness in group settings.

Elements will be facilitated by trained professionals

who employ a philosophy of challenge by choice.

Participants will be empowered within a strong atmosphere of support to set personal goals that will enable them to grow within their own comfort zone.

Held in conjunction with Project Adventure, this year’s course will take place on Saturday, October 1, 2011 from 9am to 5pm at Moraine Farms in Beverly. Picturesque Moraine Farm is located about 20 miles north of Boston and is the home of Project Adventure’s national headquarters. Directions will be given as part of your registration confirmation packet. Students who may need to make carpool arrangements should notify Student Life when they first sign-up.

Project Adventure is an international, non-profit organization, headquartered in Massachusetts. They have been working closely with colleges and universities for more than 40 years creating shared experiences in the area of team devel-

opment, problem solving and community building. Project Adventure provides opportunities for groups to interact in an engaging environment that is fun, safe, inspirational and transferable. Participants will leave the course feeling energized, empowered and valued.

The Ropes Course is open to all NSCC students, faculty, and staff. This is a FREE adventure, courtesy of Student Life. There is, however, a $10.00 deposit requested at the time of registration. This deposit will secure your spot and will be returned to you upon the conclusion of the course.

Participants who do not attend will forfeit their refund Deadline to sign-up is September 22nd. For more information, pick up a detailed brochure from Student Life or contact Lisa Milso at 978-7624000, X6242. Space is limited, do not delay. No experience or athletic ability is necessary to participate.

use social media, set goals, and remain stress free so we can work with students more effectively. Nick designed worksheets for his Strategic Planning piece that helped us guide all of our loose ideas into realistic goals for this year.

Over the summer, the SGA raised all of the funds we needed for a trip to a leadership conference in Washington, DC this fall. The conference in the capitol features various workshops that bring Student Government’s from across the nation together to learn. Ryan worked with The Black Lobster in Salem to hold a fundraiser featuring Our Own World, a local jam band, who played overlooking Salem harbor. The place was close to capacity because of Ryan’s ability to bring people together.

The SGA keeps pretty busy, which can be tough, since most of us have jobs, classes, and other responsibilities. It’s not always easy to balance our responsibilities. Nick will call to remind you that you have to be at a meeting in an hour, but he will also call you just to say what’s up. Whether we’re taking on student issues, planning

events, or working with people in our community, Nick keeps us in balance but also makes sure we have time for the rest of our lives. Nick not only acts as a leader for the group, but stresses the importance of maintaining friendships with one another, and keeping a compassionate mindset that truly serves students.

Ryan inspires all members to live and work in such a way that is respectful to others. He takes into consideration others’ needs, desires, and rights.

One day, Ryan and another member, Matt Silva, delivered canned goods from the TRIO program to LifeBridge in Salem. No one knew that Matt and Ryan were planning on delivering the food, they just jumped in the car and went. That’s what Ryan is good at, getting the job done. Next year, Ryan will be one of many SGA members and NSCC students volunteering at a local church in Danvers by serving food to those in need.

Last Spring, NSCC hosted an Early Acceptance Night Dinner for a couple hundred prospective students and

their parents. Nick made sure the SGA was there to help the staff show our guests how inviting and welcoming our college really is. All members were stationed at a table, but at the last minute, Nick was asked to deliver a speech to the students and parents in a lecture hall.

Anyone else would have been hesitant, but he got up there and nailed it. Halfway into his speech he stopped to take a breath, and the crowd opened up with applause. Nick articulates the devotion, enthusiasm, and excitement we all have for NSCC, and that night, he showed total strangers that our college is a place where you can be inspired.

We are dedicated to standing up, speaking out, and taking action on behalf of you, the student body, the life of North Shore Community College. As always, we are excited to begin another year, and can’t wait to see the halls filled with new and familiar faces. This year the Student Government Association hopes you will join us in our efforts to bring a stronger sense of community, friendship, and leadership to our college.

SGA Continued from Page 1

PAWS Picks of the Month is a monthly column that I started last year to highlight one, two, or three pets each month that PAWS has up for adoption. I write these columns with the permission of PAWS organizers but choose the pet(s) to highlight. Some of the pets are package deals, while others are unaffiliated with each other, but are worthy of the spotlight simultaneously.

A Bit About PAWS PAWS (Protection of Animals in Wakefield Society) is an all-volunteer, non-profit animal welfare organization, founded in Wakefield in 1982

by Esther Nowell. The organization serves many communities north of Boston. PAWS’ mission is to: promote and protect the rights and well-being of all domestic animals and wildlife, and foster greater understanding of animal welfare and animal rights through education. PAWS helps cats, dogs, guinea pigs, rabbits, and birds.

Every pet deserves a second chance. Please bookmark the organization web site and visit often as the list of pets up for adoption are updated frequently.

This month I present two cats who most likely have never met each other before Liz and Timmy Tiger. Both of these cats are very different from one another, however, they have two things in common. They have both been in foster care for an extended period of time and both need forever homes.

[Liz]

About Liz Rescue ID: C100116 - General Color: Gray - Color: solid gray / Solid - Current Size: 15 Pounds - Current Age: 14yrs 1mth (best estimate) - Declawed: No - Housetrained: Yes - Good with dogs, not good with cats Love of a Lifetime For Liz Easy going and happy beauty seeks a loving home of her own.

I enjoy the simple pleasures in life, from being with family and friends to good food and full water bowls. While a bit on the plump side, I am doing kitty

Weight Watchers and hope to be a svelte babe in no time. I have already lost some weight and feel just great. Right now it just means there is more of me to love and I have more love to give. Regardless of my “extra baggage” I am a fabulous feline.

Open-minded and open-hearted, I make friends easily and with all kinds of people and creatures, including my new bunny pal in the picture. However I must say that I would like to not share your attention and would prefer to be a one and only. So if loving, kind, loyal and warm are the traits you seek, look me up.

I will be waiting for your call.

[Timmy Tiger]

About Timmy Tiger Rescue ID: C100071 - General Color: Brown Tabby - Color: spotted brown tiger /spotted - Current Age: 4 yrs 7 mths (best estimate) - Declawed: No - Housetrained: Yes Great Guy Seeks Forever Sidekick I'm a loyal, devoted guy who will stick by your side forever.

My foster mom tells me how wonderful it will be to not have to share the attention with so many other cats. I've gotten used to all of them and even have made cat friends, but I do really like it when I have my human's attention all to myself.

I at least need my special place - and it better be closest to your lap and your heart! I still get scared being picked up - my foster mom is the 1st one to try that with me. [Well, I've forgotten what it was like when I was a kitten.] Now that I have my faith back in love, I can't get enough - if you get into bed or sit in any chair, I will jump right up to be with you! I look pretty serious in these photos but I can cut loose with the Turbochaser and I love to flip hair ties around the room. Want a new love to play and cuddle with?

To find out more about Liz, Timmy Tiger, and the other pets that PAWS currently has up for adoption please go to http://pawswakefield.rescuegro ups.org PAWS is also on Facebook.

September 2011:May Issue.QXD

28

SUN

8/23/11

MON

29

5

11

12

25

Page 15

September 2011

4

18

5:57 PM

30

TUES

Student ID Extended Hours Student Life Office DB132 & LW171 5-7PM

19 Program Council Meeting DB208 & LW307 2:30-4PM PC Dry Erase Board Event Danvers Berry Bld. Lobby 10-1PM 26 Program Council Dry Erase Board Event Lynn Campus Outside Cafe 10-1PM

14 Fall Fest Event Danvers Berry Building Lobby 10-1 pm Student ID DB132 & LW171 5-7PM

13

20

Student ID Extended Office Hours Student Life Office DB132 & LW171 5-7PM 27

Phi Theta Kappa Orientation Danvers Berry Building DB206 2PM

Important Numbers

CONNECTING ALL DEPARTMENTS: Lynn: (781) 593-6722 Danvers: (978) 762-4000 Beverly Cummings Center (978) 236-1200

Library

Lynn (781) 477-2133 Danvers (978) 762-4000 x.5526

Book Store

Lynn (781) 477-2127 Danvers (978) 762-4046

Weather Hotline (978) 762-4200

PC = PROGRAM COUCIL WC = WOMEN’S CENTER PTK= PHI THETA KAPPA SGA = STUDENT GOVERNMENT

PAC = PERFORMING ARTS COUNCIL

Events are Subject to Change

1

7 Classes Begin Locker Rentals Available DB132 & LW171 Student ID DB132 & LW171 5-7PM

6

Labor Day

Math & Writing Lab Lynn x6254 Danvers x5417 Hawthorne x1544 Computer Lab Lynn x6296 Danvers x5569

31

WED

21

Deadline to apply for Nola Service Trip Student Life Office DB132 & LW171 Ping Pong Tournament 28 Phi Theta Kappa Orientation Lynn Campus LE303 1PM Danvers Game Day Student Lounge DB129 10-2PM

THURS

8

Student ID Extended Hours DB132 & LW171 5-7PM

Meeting 15 SGA DB208 & LW307 2-4PM Danvers Game Day Student Lounge DB129 10-2PM 22

Student Government Association Nominations Deadline 4PM 29

2

PAGE 15 – NSCC PENNON

FRI

3

10th Anniversary Remembrance of 9/11 Phot Display goes up Lynn and Danvers Library 9

10

16

17

23

24

Fall Fest Event Lynn First Floor Corridor 10-1PM

Deadline to apply for Ropes Course Student Life Office DB132 & LW171

SAT

30

NSCC Fall 2011 Schedule Labor Day Sept.

2011

5,

Classes begin, day and evening Sept. 7, 2011

Deadline to withdraw and receive 100% refund of tuion/fees from 15-week classes is 5 p.m.

Sept. 13, 2011 Deadline to withdraw from 15-week classes and receive 100% tuition Sept. 20, 2011

Deadline to change from audit to credit or credit to audit Sept. 27, 2011

Columbus Day - no classes Oct. 10, 2011

Nov. 29, 2011

Final Exam schedule posted under Pipeline Annoucements Nov. 21, 2011

Day classes end Dec 16, 2011 Evening classes end Dec. 19, 2011

Veteran's Day - no classes Nov. 11, 2011

Last day to drop a credit course or withdraw from college with a "W" grade Nov. 29, 2011

Thanksgiving recess, evening and weekend classes Nov. 23, 2011 to Nov 27, 2011

Final Exam period, day classes only Dec. 19, 2011 to Dec 21, 2011

Thanksgiving recess, day classes Nov. 24, 2011 to Nov. 27, 2011

Deadline for IP Contracts for Spring and Summer 2011

Grades due by noon Jan. 3, 2012 Grades posted Jan. 6, 2012

September 2011:May Issue.QXD

8/23/11

5:57 PM

Page 16

Alumni Corner

PAGE 16 – NSCC PENNON

Nelson Baker

Nelson Baker, a 2010 graduate of NSCC’s liberal arts program, is the former editor in chief of the Pennon and current assistant to the Pennon advisor. He has transferred to Salem State University where he is pursuing his bachelor’s degree in English. Though he has not yet finished school, he has already published his first book, Beyond the Barracks, and is working on his second book.

As this new academic year starts, I spoke with Nelson about his writing and his involvement with the Pennon, a connection that goes beyond his passion for creative writing. He recalls when he first wrote for The Pennon as a student here. His interest in writing was not new, but submitting his short stories for publication was the first time he’d shared his work publicly. The idea of so many people seeing his work was exciting and once his work was published, he found it rewarding and a way of connecting with people in an entirely different way. Through his writing he has met people with shared interests and experienced the gratification of a reader telling him they were moved by his work or that they were able to relate to a character, a situation or a story. Hearing that someone experienced a heartfelt and emotional response to what he’s written motivates him and makes him feel that he has been successful in developing and telling a story. When something in a story is open to interpretation and a reader describes their interpretation and perspective of it, he feels he has connected with the reader. A love of literature is in his blood; Nelson’s late dad was a writer and his book is dedicated to his father with a heartfelt inscription.

I asked Nelson about writing for The Pennon and Spark, the college’s literary magazine, and whether he feels this had an impact on his creative writing. He said it most definitely made a big difference, helping him to improve his writing, and developing both confidence and consistency in his writing. He encourages anyone with an interest in writing to use these opportunities, as he did, to submit work for publication and he describes seeing his name in print for the first time as simply “awesome.”

Nelson Baker’s recently released book Beyond the Barracks combines the setting and experiences of Marine Corps boot camp/basic training with his interest in the paranormal. Rarely do people say they enjoyed boot camp, but Nelson is among those few. Along with his fond memories, boot camp gave him the background and knowledge to create the setting for his book. He is able to transport the reader to Parris Island in a chilling tale that takes place during basic training for new Marine recruits.

Nelson acknowledges that his writing leans “toward the dark side”; it is suspenseful and often contains an element of the supernatural, a result of his own experiences with things that cannot be explained.

Apropos to the season, it is a great Halloween read and will be a featured book review in the October Pennon.

Nelson is scheduled for two upcoming book signings in Salem. He will be at the Gulu-Gulu Café on September 16th at 6:30 p.m., and he will be at Bewitched in Salem on October 8th at 2 p.m.

Beyond the Barracks can be purchased online through Amazon.com and BarnesandNoble.com or in Salem at Bewitched, Coon’s, or Fool’s Mansion.

For more info or other upcoming book signing dates, find him on Facebook at www.facebook.com/nelson.baker1

Student in the Hall: Melissa Gaynor

BY NELSON BAKER

Melissa Gaynor graduated last May with a degree in Surgical Technology from North Shore Community College. Also in May, she completed an externship that took place at Union Hospital in Lynn, which has played a large role in securing for her the chance for a successful future.

One program that has helped Gaynor immensely, called CCC (Challenges, Choice, and Change), for mothers that are looking to get college education, was what really got things moving for her. This program teaches students to write a good resume, helps students to get an internship, and provides information that will lead them to deciding what they want to do for a career.

“It makes it easier because they give you classes with the same group of girls, so you have a support group along the way,” Gaynor said.

Soon after, Gaynor was able to lock down and complete an internship in radiology at Salem Hospital. It was here that she found a love for the operat-

ing room. When they let her experience that kind of an atmosphere, she decided she was going into the Surgical Technology program at NSCC. Gaynor has done a lot of volunteering during summer and winter breaks from school, which has also opened doors for her. “It is a great way of exploring what you want to do,” she said. “If I was planning a career change, I would definitely volunteer again to make sure it was for me.”

Volunteering was one of the reasons she made it into the Surgical Tech program.

There are only 20 seats available, and a combined 38 credits that need to be completed for the year.

One of the people who helped Gaynor in her search for work was Professor Christine Hanson. She may already have a job lined up in her field, which is not always easy to do in such a short time. Julie Howland was also a big help for Gaynor during her time at school.

Speaking of NSCC, Gaynor believes that “it is a fantastic school where many people go out of their way to help you.”

“Anne Barras, the director of the Surgical Tech program, is one of the best teachers I ever had. She is so dedicated to her students. She deserves an award in my opinion,” Gaynor said.

One of her future goals is to gain valuable work experience within her field. She is thinking about possibly going back to school for nursing or a related medical program.

Gaynor added, “If I was to further my education, I would definitely go back to NSCC.”

Dr. Chen

Continued from Page to do it properly, we will be able to meditate even while driving a vehicle, as he does on occasion.

Breathing should always be the primary focus.

Keeping active is necessary in maintaining a strong and healthy body. He reccomends things like walking, running, and swimming. “These are all natural activities that we were made to do,” Chen said.

Even more important

5

legendary football star, played into his 40s, because he was conditioned.”

Dr. Chen lives a low maintenance life. He doesn’t have to travel far to find fresh, healthy food. He remains active through natural activities, exercise, and work. He keeps it simple.

“Well being is the meaning of life. That’s what I believe. It is the central point of

Dr. Chen instructing NSCC students and staff

is conditioning. Stretching and lubricating your muscles and joints is vital. He believes that most sports injuries are caused by not being properly conditioned. Chen stated, “Jerry Rice,

it all, of all we do and how we do it,” Chen said. That is why he does this kind of work.