The Advocate, Issue 24, Mt. Hood Community College

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'King Lear' actors show versatility in 'Godspell' rehearsals

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A&E p. 9

www.advocate-online.net

April 16, 2010

Volume 45, Issue 24

Replacing 'below-grade' electrical equipment may cost up to $2.2 million Ron J. Rambo Jr. The Advocate

The cost to fix MHCC’s power supply infrastructure could range anywhere from $1.7 million to $2.2 million, Portland General Electric officials told the district board Wednesday night. Dale Garcia, a distribution services representative for PGE, said the existing switch gear is corroded, and he and two other representatives outlined a plan to bring MHCC’s 40-plus year-old electrical system up to speed. This presentation was scheduled not long after the April 4 when the entire college was manually shut down due to flooding into the electrical system that could have caused an explosion. “We must make the below-grade equipment abovegrade,” Garcia said. “Replacing the buried conductor conduit, along with material and equipment upgrades, would give the college a potential 50-year power system. This is not a small upgrade. This is a long-term solution to a longterm problem.” Garcia said one single manufacturer providing the equipment, rather using a bevy of different parts, would also increase efficiency. Garcia and Joe Davis, a key customer representative for PGE, explained to the board that MHCC’s current electrical system “did its job. It did it well. But it owes you nothing anymore.” Garcia added he could not guarantee the electrical system would last a minute longer than it already has. Key to the corrosiveness issues and why the problem may have occurred in the first place, Garcia and Davis said, was the way the electrical system was originally installed. Davis and Garcia had photograph slides of the electrical apparatuses that had already been damaged, as well as other parts that were at risk of damage – namely, electrical switch gear that are constantly exposed to the elements. “Your electrical system sits under a steel grate underneath a walkway,” Garcia said. “This grate allows for rain and other debris to pile onto the wiring and other systems.” PGE had a slide showing an underground portion of the system and wires protected by a casing – but entirely covered with leaves. The wires appeared thick with wrapping, but were otherwise exposed to rainfall. “You have to try really, really hard to keep moisture out of an area that presents a hostile problem to equipment that is not designed to be in such an environment,” Garcia said. Board member Duke Shepard asked Garcia if the way the electrical system was built was “exceptionally poor design” or if it was consistent with “how things were built” 40 years ago. “Very consistent,” Garcia said. Board member Brian Freeman suggested a quick fix might then require another part or apparatus to be repaired

Photo by Brett Stanley/The Advocate

MHCC President John Sygielski (left) and Board Relations Assistant June Jacobs (right) listen to the presentation by Portland General Electric representative Dale Garcia about the replacement of the college’s electrical system.

further down the road. Garcia said any minimum repair would require fixing more than one or two parts. “There are certain parts that a worker would have to jump onto in order to fix because they’re underground,” Garcia said, showing slides as examples. “My men would not do some basic repairs on certain equipment because it puts them in a precarious position. They would have 12,000 volts running between their legs. If you spoke to another group that said, ‘Yeah, our crew has no problem fixing that,’ you should question it and wonder why they would do it when PGE wouldn’t. My crews are some of the best men on the continent.” Freeman wondered aloud where the college would get the money for a “minimum” fix of $1.7 million, followed by Shepard. “Our proposal for a fix (on the electrical equipment) came back at the bottom of the list on (community college) rankings for state funding,” Shepard said regarding Oregon

community college maintenance requests. “Other colleges are trying to get money for some new building here or there. Our college genuinely needs a fix.” State Sen. Rod Monroe, who is also a board member, said any campus plan regarding improved facilities is “wishful thinking right now,” but that he would push for additional funding for MHCC. Director of Facilities Management Dick Byers said in an e-mail after the meeting he was not surprised by PGE’s description of the college’s electrical system, and that this was a key reason for asking PGE to give an assessment of the system after being hired in 2008. “The point is that this system is very fragile and just about anything could happen to cause a major or, for that matter, a minor failure,” Byers said. PGE’s presentation ran 40 minutes over the allotted timeframe, and some board members suggested further consideration should be put on next month’s agenda.

Concerns over financial aid disbursements loom as college mulls proposals Brett Stanley The Advocate

Discussions about the MHCC financial aid disbursement process are heating up as proposed changes get closer to implementation. Proposed changes include disbursing aid at a later date, disbursing aid in two payments over the term, and changing the add/drop dates for classes, or a combination of the above. According to MHCC student William York, the proposed changes could jeopardize housing for students who depend on financial aid to pay rent and other bills. According to York, the new changes in aid policy would push back aid disbursements over the summer term, possibly as late as two weeks into the month of October, and would cause students to miss rent and bill payments that were due on the first of the month. York charges that the increased delay in “disbursement drops” would cause some students to face homelessness. “We’re facing homelessness,” said York. “I budget so I can get through from funding date to funding date.” York charges that any increased amount of time between those dates would cause him and other students that live at or

ASG presidential candidates have been announced

below the poverty line to go without food and rent. “I don’t think they have adequately described the problem,” said York. Currently, the aid disbursement process can be costly for the college as students who receive aid keep their aid money even if they drop out or do not attend classes. According to financial aid officials, the college is responsible for reimbursing the federal government for all grants and loans disbursed to students that drop out or do not attend classes. In essence, dropouts keep the money disbursed to them, while the college is required to pay back the government whatever amount of money that was handed over to that student. The student is then sent a bill via mail. However, aid officials complain that these students are unable to pay bills that can be in the thousands of dollars and are then sent to collections. Aid officials say that the current disbursement process creates costs to both the students and college, outcomes that can only be changed by altering the current system. Aid officials estimate that by the end of this school year, the cost of repaying these loans will cost Mt. Hood Community

Aid continued on page 4

Index

News p. 12

Opinion

Anderson pitches perfect game in conference opener Sports p. 5

Cars with GPS units being targeted for break-ins News p. 3

Afro-Peruvian jazz musicians to return to MHCC after 3-year absence

News

Music p. 10

Music

Sports A&E

p. 2 p. 3, 4, 12 p. 5-8 p. 9 p. 10-11


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OPINION

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April 9, 2010

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Sanne Godfrey Editor-in-Chief Ron J. Rambo Jr. Executive Editor, Design Jake Fray Sports Editor Brett Stanley Photo Editor

Editorial

Chelsea Van Baalen A&E, Web Editor M. Michael Rose Advertising Manager Jen Ashenberner Music Editor Jordan Tichenor Opinion Editor Ollie Barker Reporter Devin Courtright Reporter Chealsey Fischer Reporter Jon Fuccillo Reporter David Gambill Reporter David Guida Reporter Chanel Hill Reporter L. John King Reporter Thelma M. Lucas Reporter Mario Rubio Reporter Bob Watkins Adviser Dan Ernst Assistant Adviser E-mail advocatt@mhcc.edu 503-491-7250 (Main) 503-491-7413 (Office) 503-591-6064 (Fax)

www.advocate-online.net Mt. Hood Community College 26000 SE Stark Street Gresham, Oregon 97030

Submissions The Advocate encourages readers to share their opinion by letters to the editor and guest columns for publication. All submissions must be typed and include the writer’s name and contact information. Contact information will not be printed unless requested. Original copies will not be returned to the author. The Advocate will not print any unsigned submission. Letters to the editor should not exceed 300 words and guest columns should not exceed 600. The decision to publish is at the discretion of the editorial board. The Advocate reserves the right to edit for style, punctuation, grammar and length. Please bring submissions to The Advocate in Room 1369, or e-mail them to advocatt@mhcc.edu. Submissions must be received by 5 p.m. Monday the week of publication to be considered for print. Opinions expressed in columns, letters to the editor or advertisements are the views of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of The Advocate or MHCC.

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Earth Week is not just a week but a lifestyle

ith Earth Week kicking off Monday, it won’t be a shock to see soda cans exchanged for 5 cents instead of being tossed into the trash. Or paper being recycled, or people printing on both sides. Any small measure possible to ensure that “green is the new black” and that we all “love our planet.” But what will happen when Earth Week is over? Will our trash cans be filled quicker than our recycling bins? Will our pop cans no longer be worth the trip to Fred Meyer or Safeway, the 5 cents forgotten? Will we not want to put in the effort to flip the paper over, using one page instead of two? If we continue our eco-friendly ways, will our recycling be enough to stop global warming and whatever catastrophe that apparently awaits us? The answer is no. Because saving the Earth doesn’t just rely on reusing paper and aluminum, saving trees and other resources. It relies on us. We are the ones putting the recycling in the bins, returning our soda cans, making conscious efforts to change our habits. What if there are billions of other ways to save our planet? Little things we can do everyday with little to no effort? When it comes to saving the planet, it’s not just about going green, it’s about making a better world for the human race, for the present and the future. And whether or not people choose to recycle their Monster cans isn’t going to be the only thing making a difference. Given how much air pollution cars cause, people often preach the usage of public transit and bicycles as a “cleaner” alternative to autos. And while taking the bus is great, with classes and meetings, it’s hard to pinpoint a time of arrival when buses can be five minutes late or more. Though three buses stop by MHCC (Lines 20, 80 and 81), it might be hard to risk being 10 minutes late to math class. Instead, students can consider carpooling with others. Not only will this save money that might be spent on gas, but MHCC still offers spots in its parking lots exclusively for carpooling students; all it takes is a permit. While all carpool passes have already been allocated for this school year, new applications begin in August for the year-round passes that are free of charge. Students have the opportunity to think ahead about how they can help the environment for the next academic year.

This has the potential to reduce traffic and parked cars on our campus, as well as reducing air pollution. Because think about it, the air that trucks or cars pump exhaust fumes into, the air people exhale smoke into, the air any other gas is emitted into is the same air everyone has to breathe. Who wants to inhale whatever is in the smoke from someone’s cigarette? Who wants to inhale the exhaust from someone’s ancient Volkswagen bus? Cleaner air means cleaner lungs. And what about the Golden Rule: People need to treat others the way they want to be treated? When one person stops to hold the door open for a person trying to juggle two boxes, a binder and four pens, two people walk away feeling a little bit better about the world we live in. On that note, theft is still on the rise on campus. First it was cars, now it appears GPS units are the new trend. Are times so bad people have to resort to taking another’s property? When the person who loses their possessions might not have the finances to replace it? Creating positive energy can make a population strive to do what’s good, not just what’s convenient, and certainly not what’s illegal. Exercise is also key in creating a healthier environment. Consistent physical activity can give a person more energy, better sleep and a longer life. Every time a student spends 10 minutes in the MHCC Aquatic Center, on the rock wall or on the treadmill, that’s 10 minutes they don’t spend in front of the television. And when they’re working out with a friend, communication is a little bit better than when they’re chatting on Facebook. But activity isn’t enough to keep a person healthy; after all, they are what they eat. When standing in line at Vista, the pizza might be more convenient and get a person out of the crowd quicker, but that side of vegetables with their grilled chicken might be a little easier on the digestion, not to mention a much healthier alternative. And when making the oh-so-difficult decision to go off campus, walk with friends and turn it into a little adventure. Whatever the decision is, there are many ways to “Go Green” that go beyond what a person puts inside the recycling bin. While they might require a few extra minutes, a few extra thoughts, a few extra actions, it might make for a much brighter, and greener, tomorrow.

'El Presidente' out of race due to poor taste Brett Stanley The Advocate

With the upcoming ASG elections, I was going to use my staff column to announce my run for “El Presidente-for-life” of MHCC. Even if I lost the election, I had plans (not really) to take over the Associated Student Government in a military coup and disband student government and install a South American junta-style government that would “make MHCC free for all students – the way it goddamn should be!” I was going to insert all kinds of ridiculous communist rhetoric about the working class (the students) vs. the bourgeois (the administration and ASG). I was even going to make the column about 2,000 words, like one of Fidel Castro’s speeches, possibly filibuster my own staff column and generally make fun of and lampoon the ASG and the MHCC’s admin-

istration. I was specifically going make fun of the charges that the current El Presidente, Bradley Best, sexually harassed Priscilla Pitts. I was going to prove Best was not guilty by the simple fact that he could have chosen to sexually harass Jeannine Retzlaff. Actually, that whole ridiculous affair deserves to be made fun of, but I won’t delve deeper into it now. Writing a bunch of seditionist garbage seems in poor taste, even when it’s in a joking manner and aimed at something like ASG, especially when the State of Oklahoma is currently trying to organize a state-sponsored Tea Party Militia whose goals are to “fight the federal government.” Or, if you read between the lines, to “terrorize and suppress people that think differently from us and that we don’t like.” The only real outcome, presumably, is that a state-funded Tea Party militia would use its power to enforce, through violence and intimidation, the philosophy behind the Tea Party

movement as a whole. A philosophy that seems to be based on the fear of an African American president and . . . health care reform? Also, a democratically elected governing body — Congress and the Senate. Despite the ridiculous reasons behind such a movement, an armed enforcement wing of the Tea Party would have utterly horrifying consequences. The only other time in the history of the U.S. this happened was the Civil War. And at other times in other country’s histories, these same types of philosophies and movements were know as Brownshirts and Bolsheviks. The outcome of those movements were bloody violence, revolution, brutal fascism and suppression of whole peoples. In other words: war, horror, and death. But judging by the current mood and philosophy of the Tea Party, the old quote by Sinclair Lewis holds true: “When fascism come to America, it will be wrapped in a flag and carrying a cross.”


news

April 16, 2010

The Advocate 3

Thieves target cars with visible GPS units

Photo contributed by Public Safety

Break-ins on campus have increased, according to Public Safety officers on campus.

Jen Ashenberner The Advocate

If you don’t need it at school, don’t bring it with you and leave it in your vehicle, said Jeff Luyet, MHCC general studies major, after his car was broken into Wednesday. Luyet’s vehicle was one of three that had a window smashed and GPS unit stolen from it Wednesday according to Cherilyn Nederhiser, public safety officer.

“My first reaction when I saw the window out was ‘where’s my truck?’” said Luyet. “After the initial shock wore off, I knew immediately what had been taken.” A recent public safety crime log indicates that there were eight incidents of thefts from vehicles from April 1 to April 13. The latest incidents bring that total to 11 in the first 15 days of April. Nederhiser said, “We (public safety) are utilizing every available

Several programs relocate due to remodeling Chealsey Fischer The Advocate

Some programs that were in the downstairs area of the College Center have been relocated because the area is being remodeled. TRiO-SSS has moved to Room 1050 in the College Center, also known as the Lake Room. Transitions, Transiciones, and OLI have moved to the Council Chambers. TRiO-College First is now located on the third floor of the library. Because the Lake Room and Council Chambers are now being used as offices, there are fewer meeting rooms in the College Center, but space can be found upon request at the College Center front desk. Project YESS, facilities, maintenance, custodial, graphic services, mail services and the warehouse are all remaining in their current locations and won’t be affected by the remodel. According to David Sussman, manager of the College Center service and grant sponsored programs, the remodel is expected to be finished by mid-June and there will be a naming celebration upon the opening early summer. The remodel is funded by GoOregon money from the state and various MHCC programs and offices and is expected to transform the area into a learning center and welcome area to all MHCC staff and students.

resource to recover stolen items and prosecute offenders.” Public safety works with Det. Theresa Uttke of the Portland Police Pawn Shop Detail to attempt to recover stolen items, said Nederhiser. “It would really help if people would record the serial numbers on electronics like GPS units and stereos so if they are stolen we can track them at pawn shops,” said Nederhiser. Luyet agreed with Nederhiser and said he will be able to get reimbursed by his insurance company for the loss of the broken driver’s side window and the cost of the GPS unit. “I don’t usually leave valuables out,” said Luyet. “I was in a hurry.” Nederhiser said even leaving the GPS mount visible could tip off car prowlers there are valuables in the car. It takes between 30-50 seconds for a prowler to break the window and lean in and get what they want out of the car, according to Nederhiser. “We have individuals coming on campus and victimizing our students with crimes of opportunity,” said Nederhiser.

Newsbriefs

The library has a new group study room for student. Public Safety officers have started to write citations for smoking on campus. The officers previously gave out warning, but were given the go ahead to write tickets last Wednesday.

New Deans appointed Sanne Godfrey The Advocate

Marc Goldberg, Christie Plinski and Dennis Mattoon have been named deans at Mt. Hood Community College and Jeffery Ring is the new director of library services. Goldberg, Plinski and Mattoon have all moved from interim deans in their departments to deans, while Ring is new to the college. The new dean of adult basic skills, Goldberg, has been at MHCC since 2007 and has designed and facilitated numerous business and industry training programs. Plinski will not only be the new dean of social sciences, but will also lead a division of 12 disciplines and the Child Development and Family Services program with Head Start/Early Head Start programs. Plinski has nine years of experience, being a high school principal at Benson Polytechnic High School and South Albany High School. Mattoon manages career technical education programs in automotive, machine tool technology, welding technology and an array of apprenticeship programs as the dean of the industrial technology.

Earth Day events around Portland St. Johns Earth Day Celebration From 2 to 7 p.m. on April 22 at St. Johns Community Center 8427 N. Central st.

Portland Trail Fest

From 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on April 22 at Chris King Precision Components 2801 NW Nela st.

Earthday Sustainability Fair From 4 to 6 p.m. on April 22 at Garden Home Community Library 7475 SE Oleson rd.

Public Safety urges students to pay attention to their surroundings at all times and report anything that appears “out of the ordinary.” Nederhiser describes out of the ordinary as seeing a person standing in the parking lot glancing around suspiciously while another person is manipulating car door handles or looking in windows. “Even if it turns out to be nothing we (public safety) would rather get the call and investigate than be notified later by a car owner that has been has been victimized,” said Nederhiser. There is no specific “car prowler” demographic that people should watch for, Nederhiser said, adding that a car prowler can be anyone and she has interviewed people in three-piece suits for suspicious behavior. One way the campus community can avoid being victimized is to rent a locker in the College Center for $10 per term, with a refundable $5 deposit. To report suspicious behavior, the campus community can call extension 7911 from any campus phone or 503-491-7911.

Earth Day Evening of Music and Song

From 7:30 to 9 p.m. on April 23 at First Unitarian Church of Portland 1011 SW 12th ave. 503-227-2315

Portland Earth Day Children's Book Drive

From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 24 at area New Seasons Markets and Whole Food stores. 360-298-0203

Earth Day: Re-Seeding Our World

Featuring an appearance by Portland Mayor Sam Adams From 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on April 24 at Washington High School SE 12th ave. and Stark st.

MHCC celebrates 'Earth Week' M. Michael Rose

Calendar FRIDAY, April 16 Student Success Seminar “Learning from Lectures” from noon to 1 p.m. in Room 3315

Saturday, April 17 Track and Field Pioneer Open At Lewis & Clark College in Portland, Ore. Baseball vs. Linn Benton Starts at 1 p.m. at the baseball field Softball Crossover Tournament in Yakima, Wash.

Sunday, April 18 Softball Crossover Tournament in Yakima, Wash.

Monday, April 19 Student Success Seminar “Study Techniques for Line Learners” From noon to 1 p.m. in Room 2307 Student Success Seminar “How to Write a Resume” From 2 to 3 p.m. in Room 1152

Tuesday, April 20 Baseball at Lane C.C. Starts at 1 p.m. in Eugene, Ore.

Wednesday, April 21 Health & Wellness Celebration From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. campus wide Student Success Seminar “Degree Options” From noon to 1 p.m. in the College Center Student Success Seminar “Study Strategies for Math & Science” From noon to 1 p.m. in Room 3300 Freedom of Speech Now! From 4 to 7 p.m. in the Jazz Cafe

Thursday, April 22 Earth Day Student Sucess Seminar “Green Careers” From 2 to 3 p.m. in Room 1152 Student Success Seminar “Time Management” From 4 to 5 p.m. in Room 2307

The Advocate

This year MHCC will once again celebrate Earth Day with a full week of events and activities. There will be several things going on for “Earth Week” this year. Student-made posters will be posted outside the science and social science doors that address environmental issues. The posters will remain in place throughout Earth Week. Environmental Jeopardy, which will take place April 22, the actual date of Earth Day, will be held in Room 1309 from noon to 1 p.m. A campus clean-up has been organized by MHCC instructor Chris Gorsek for Saturday, April 24, from 1 to 3 p.m. The group will be meeting at Troutdale Road and Stark Street.

Friday, April 23 The Advocate. Issue 25 In news stands around campus Student Sucess Seminar "Getting the Most From Your Textbooks” From 3 to 4 p.m. in Room 2307 Softball at Clackamas C.C. Starts at 3 p.m. in Oregon City, Ore.


NEWS

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April 16, 2010

MHCC blood drive exceeds goal by one donation L. John King The Advocate

This week’s MHCC blood drive successfully met and exceeded the donation goals, according to a Red Cross representative. Joseph Shockley, Red Cross high school and college territory representative, said the goal of 102 units of red blood cells was exceeded by one at 103 donations by the end of the drive Thursday. Shockley credits the success of the drive to the support of the Student Activity Board for getting the word out weeks ago. “Mt Hood is a leader in getting student volunteers,” said Shockley. ”Dan Moe was the backbone of this drive. He put it all together.” Moe, the SAB Health and Wellness coordinator, said SAB and Associated Student Government members put forth a concentrated effort to assure the success of this drive. Moe and others spoke to classrooms, sent out e-mails, displayed posters, and gathered donors via a website where individuals could sign-up. Moe said, “I am disappointed that many who had scheduled a time to donate did not show up for their appointment. However we did get quite a few donors who just walked up.” Student volunteers helped perform the initial paperwork and also by monitoring the tables where donors are offered juice and snacks and are monitored to be certain they can leave safely. Numerous donors said they have given blood more than once. Miguel Polanco, a computer engineering student, said, “This is the third time I have given blood. I like to do something to help people.” Polanco said he tries to give blood every three months. Sherrie Neff, who plans to begin nursing school next spring, said, “This is my first time and it went fine. It did not take too long, only 30 minutes from beginning to end.” Matthew McConnell, a marketing student with plans to attend the University of Washington, said, “I have hit blood drives at a church whenever I can. It frees me up from my homework, I get free cookies and I can hit on the girls.” Asked if the blood supply is especially low, Red Cross employee Robert Cork said the area needs to keep a large supply of blood to prepare for natural disasters. “We need all types of blood but especially O-negative,”

Erin Adams donated blood during the Wednesday April 15 Blood Drive in the College Center

Cork said. “We refer to type O-negative as the universal donor. It can be given immediately in emergency situations because it can be given to anyone without the risk of allergic reactions.” Cork, who has worked for the Red Cross for more than 10 years as a mobile unit assistant, said, “When we take donations of blood, we can use it in three ways. We use red blood cells for people with anemia due chemotherapy and other causes. We use plasma for those who have lost a lot of fluid before we give them red blood cells, and we use another part for factors that help clot blood.”

Photo by L. John King/The Advocate

The reason for the constant need for blood is that it cannot be stored indefinitely. According to the American Red Cross website, blood has a shelf life of 42 days, after which it is discarded. A report published in the New England Journal of Medicine indicates that patients who were given blood with less than two weeks on the shelf were less likely to have a number of complications than those who received older blood. Cork said, “The Red Cross slogan is so true: ‘The need is constant, the gratification is instant.’”

Rho Theta President elected as International VP

SAB to host Health and Wellness Celebration

Sanne Godfrey

Jake Fray

The Advocate

Rho Theta President Onjalai Flake was elected international vice president for Division IV of the Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society during the Phi Theta Kappa convention in Orlando, Fla. last Saturday. As an international vice president, Flake will travel in her new position for both training and as a representative of Phi Theta Kappa at regional meetings and conferences. Flake will remain involved with Rho Theta, the MHCC chapter of the international organization, since this is one of the requirements of the position. “I’m excited to work with my team and take them to new levels,” she said. Flake said, “Phi Theta Kappa and Rho Theta have given me purpose as a student and an individual to excel in academics and servitude. I am passionate for what we do here on campus and in the community that encourages others to push themselves to be successful and achieve their goals. I want to inspire others to pursue their goals regardless of their circumstances.” Asked who helped her to get the new position Flake said, “There are a lot of people. First, it would have to be God; I believe that He

has made it possible for me to get to this point. My father, who died a few months ago, convinced me to join; my mom, who always supports me; regional team members for convincing me to run for this position; Dr. Ski (MHCC President John Sygielski) for being my biggest cheerleader; and my supportive chapter and adviser Beth Sammons. “I do have to say specifically that I had a phenomenal campaign manager to whom I credit a lot of my success during campaign. Her name is Heather Nichelle-Peres. She is current VP of fellowship for Rho Theta and she made me look good and believed in me,” Flake said. Nichelle-Peres said, “I know Onjalai will be modest about this position but only five students in the world are chosen for this position and she was voted on by over 300 chapters from the U.S. and international chapters.” Flake said there was one other person running for the position she now holds. Nichelle-Peres said, “A completely genuine personality, dedication to the goals of Phi Theta Kappa and a desire to represent Mt. Hood to the best of her ability” are some of the qualities that will help Flake in her new role as international vice president.

Three MHCC clubs to come together for 'Freedom of Speech Now!' event Sanne Godfrey The Advocate

Three MHCC clubs are collaborating for “Freedom of Speech Now!” an event that will investigate several international political prisoners and the movements they were and are a part of. The Black Student Union, Students for Environmental Justice and Chako Kum Tux Club are bringing speakers to the event, including Darrelle Dino Butler, Jeff Luers, Ashanti Alston and Kent Ford. The event will take place Wednesday from 4 to 7 p.m. in the Jazz Café. Butler is a member of the Siletz Nation in Oregon, a poet, an activist and a member of the American Indian Movement (AIM). According to the event poster, Luers is an anarchist and environmental justice activist from Los Angeles who was recently released from prison for setting fire to three SUVs in a car lot in Eugene in 2000. “Because his actions were politically motivated to make a statement about global warming, he was targeted as an ‘eco-terrorist,’” according to the poster. Alston is an anarchist revolutionary, speaker, writer and former member of the Black Panther Party. He is co-chair of the National Jericho Movement, to free U.S. political prisoners, a member of the Malcolm X Grassroots Movement and on the speaker’ bureau for the Institute for Anarchist Studies. Ford, a member of the Portland chapter of the Black Panther Party in the 1960s, will discuss the historical linkages between political repression in the United States from the FBI programs of the 1960s and 70s crystallizing into Homeland Security and the Patriot Act in the first decade of the 21st century.

Aid continued from page 1 College $500,000. Some students have criticized the proposed changes on the basis that the change comes too soon and that officials did not give adequate notice of changes and did not consult students. According to an information packet titled Financial Aid Changes to Disbursement Dates – Information to Students, dated April 14, the college has re-paid the government for grants and loans in the amount of $322,267 for the 2009-10 school year as of February 2010. The same document states that 106 students withdrew from college Fall Term 2009 and cost the college $183,582 with 23 students repaying the debt., thereby reducing MHCC’s liability to $168,418. Winter and spring terms were not listed. This means that 83 students who withdrew from classes cost MHCC $168,418 during fall term. York charges that the actions of a few students should not penalize the thousands of other students who also receive aid and remain in school. David Minger, vice president for student success and enrollment management, apologized to students in a financial aid forum held April, 9. Minger admitted to “dropping the ball” and not giving adequate notice of changes and not gathering enough input from students about the impact aid changes would have. Financial Aid officials have been met with anger and distrust at two separate student forums in the past week that were held to discuss changes in financial aid policy.

The Advocate

The Student Activities Board will host a Health and Wellness Celebration Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. “It is going to be a massive and epic celebration,” said SAB Health and Wellness Coordinator Dan Moe. “This is a campus-wide event for students. It’s to educate students on the possibilities they have to better themselves and their environment.” Moe has scheduled events throughout campus that he says will attract many students. “We are going to have a bungee challenge that will be sweet,” he said. “And we are also having a speaker in to talk about dating.” The events scheduled along with the bungee course and Flirting 101 discussion are: Shannon Quimbly talking about how to make your environment more ecofriendly; Debbie Bauman discussing how to avoid clutter in your life; and Josh Hooten talking about nutrition. Moe also said, “We will also have 35 vendors that will have information that has to do with your health, nutrition and fitness.” According to Moe, one of the things that will draw in students is the prizes SAB will be giving away. “We are raffling off a ‘sick’ mountain bike,” he said. “Everyone is going to want it.” To get your free entry into the raffle, students must pick up a punch card from the SAB information booth and get five punches from vendors after talking with them and return the card to the information booth. “We will also be giving out gift certificates to different places,” said Moe.


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House of P.A.I.N. is new weight club on campus

dvocate SPORTS

April 16, 2010

Sports p. 8

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Lady Saints begin Southern Region play with 3-1 record Jake Fray

The Advocate

The Lady Saints started off league play going 3-1, sweeping Clark Community College and splitting a doubleheader last weekend against South Western Oregon Community College. The Saints took on Clark April 9, winning 14-0 in the first game and 9-0 in the second game. “I was pleased with how they came out,” said Head Coach Meadow McWhorter. “We played solid defense in both games with only one error. We played great.” McWhorter was particularly happy with freshman pitcher Kayla Anderson, who threw a complete game against Clark. “Kayla actually threw a perfect game in five innings,” said McWhorter. “But we also had a bunch of hits and we went opposite field which we have been talking about doing all season. We just brought our A-game and we are tough to beat when we do.” The Saints had 21 hits in the two games compared to Clark’s two. “They (Clark) are not a different team compared to last season’s team,” said McWhorter. “They have some kids on that team who just didn’t hit and we played well. They are still a good team.” As for the Saints continuing their “A-game” into the SWOCC game on Saturday, it didn’t happen. “Our energy level just wasn’t there,” said McWhorter. “We were a completely different team in the first inning compared to the rest of

Photo by Brett Stanley/ The Advocate

Sophomore third baseman Nicole Colpron hits a home run during the Saints first game against Southwestern Oregon Community College Saturday. Colpron’s home run brought the Saints ahead 3-2 in the first inning before losing the game 8-5.

the game.” The Saints fell behind early in game one and committed two errors in the first inning, prompting McWhorter to take a trip to the mound where she yelled at her whole team to meet on the mound. “I basically said everything that just happened is history. Even the girls said the energy level was down,” said McWhorter. Also struggling for the Saints was pitcher Chelsea Schriber, who

was replaced without making it out of the first inning. “She was going deep into the count and I told her if she did that, I would pull her early and I had to. She was going 2-0 and 3-0 in the count and that can’t happen.” After the talk at the mound, the Saints picked up their play, getting the last out and producing a three-run home run from Nicole Colpron to put the Saints up 3-2 after one. But the Saints couldn’t

hold on, losing the first game 8-5. “They scored five in the top of the fourth and only three were earned. I told the girls that if we make an error, they will capitalize on it and that is what they did,” said McWhorter. Just before the second game, McWhorter had a few words for the team, saying, “We are the better team and now let’s go out and prove it in this second game.” The Saints came out strong

and won the second game 2-0. McWhorter said, “I told the girls we needed to play aggressive defense, like diving for a ground ball, and we did that in the second game. We were a different team that second game. It wasn’t an option to get swept at home. It was definitely not an option to lose that second game.” Going into this weekend’s NWAACC Crossover Tournament in Yakima, Wash., on Saturday, McWhorter is happy with how her team is playing except for the first game against SWOCC. “Our lineup is producing runs for us. As a team, we are hitting .423. There has only been one game as a team we hit under .300,” she said. As for the Saints pitching staff, she said if one pitcher doesn’t throw well, someone else will come out and pitch the game of her life. “I am very pleased with our staff this season,” she said. “Myranda (Sawyer) struggled this weekend and Kayla came in and threw great. The next game, Myranda came back in and threw great for us. This season we have a pitching staff where I tell them everyday is that you are a staff and we don’t have to rely on one person like last season.” This weekend the Saints first game is against Treasure Valley at 11 a.m. followed by Centralia at 3 p.m. McWhorter said, “We have played the first four teams so we should be okay. I just told the girls, ‘As long as you go to play, we go to war.’”

MHCC has only community college athlete in decathlon Sanne Godfrey The Advocate

Photo by Jake Fray/ The Advocate

Sophomore Markus Stevens high jumps during the Mt. Hood Multi Meet April 14. Stevens’ highest jump was a mark of 1.86 meters.

MHCC sophomore Markus Stevens came in fifth place with 5,443 points during the Mt. Hood Multi Meet that was held Monday and Tuesday. Stevens only needed 5,000 points to place for the NWAACC Decathlon championship that will be hosted at MHCC May 3 and 4. Head Coach Matt Hart said, “It’s cool, because we were the only community college present so everyone he competed against came from a four-year college or university.” Bryant Sentman, who won the decathlon with a total of 6,598 points, is a senior at OIT. In comparison, Hart said this was Stevens’ first time competing in the decathlon. Chris Zeller, who was supposed to compete in the decathlon, hurt his ankle prior to the meet and was unable to compete. Brian Howelton has been out with a sprained ankle since March 13 and, according to Hart, has missed five meets but has already qualified to compete in the NWAACC Championships May 24 and 25 in Spokane, Wash. Hart said MHCC is not the only team with sprained ankles this season, but it seems to be the injury throughout the conference. Stevens also competed in the John Knight Twilight on Friday at Western Oregon University. He came in 11th place in the 100 meters with a time of 11.70 and he placed seventh in the long jump with a distance of 5.84 meters. Hart said Stevens and the coaching staff came to a mutual agreement for him to compete in the decathlon and that they try to work with the athletes and “the only thing I dictate is show up to practice on time.” During training, Hart has been focusing on getting their speed up, through speed velocity belts and low-impact training. The team went to the pool twice this week, which takes a toll on the body, but according to Hart if the athletes are conditioned and are running on their own, this will positively affect their performance.

One of the athletes Hart has been working with is Anaiah Rhodes, who won the 100 meters with a time of 12.53 and came in second in the 200 meters at 25.90. According to Hart, Rhodes came close to a lifetime PR on the 100 meters and she might break her record this weekend at the Pioneer Open at Lewis & Clark College in Portland. “I just want to see her compete well,” said Hart. The other woman dominating her event is Kelsey Strot, who won both the shot put with 12.89 meters and the discus throw with 34.44 meters. Hart said Strot has a lot more room for growth in the discus throw and that she has been working with throws coach Nik Kay to help improve her marks. Strot’s brother holds the school record in discus and hammer throw. Adrian Webber came in second in the discus throw event for the men with a distance of 42.88 meters and was closely followed by Jr. Velasquez who came in fourth with a distance of 41.48 meters. Webber also had a season PR in javelin with 52.58 meters, but was unable to compete in the finals because it conflicted with the finals in disc. “He’s on the verge of going huge on disc,” said Hart. “Last year he was a guy that performed in the event, but this year he is a discus thrower.” Velasquez came in first in the shot put event with a distance of 16.20 meters and, according to Hart, threw with emotion that day. “His passion threw his performance over the edge this week. He put some fire in it,” said Hart. Hart said one of the roles of the coaches is to help guide the athletes to channel and manage their anxieties. “If you’re in an ‘A’ heat, that’ll bring more anxiety, but if you channel that there will be more optimal opportunity. If you cannot handle the anxiety, it could hurt your performance.” Micah Strong came in fifth place in the 200-meter dash with a time of 22.70 and second in the 100 meters with a time of 11.02, followed by Nick Mulick in third place at 11.10. The men’s 4x400 relay team came in first with a time of 3:29.51 and the men’s 4x100 relay team came in third with a time of 46.55.


6

The Advocate

SPORTS

April 16, 2010

The Saints' newest recruit Story by Jake Fray Contributed photos by Tim Stewart and Ryan Degner

Sought-after athlete Ryan Degner signs a letter of intent with MHCC's baseball team

A

year and a half ago, Glencoe High School baseball star Ryan Degner had no idea what he wanted to do. Degner, who has signed a letter of intent to play for MHCC starting in the fall and is the first signed athlete for the Saints, was a junior playing shortstop for the Crimson Tide, wearing number 21, his dad cheering for him from the front row, and having the time of his life. His junior year, he was all-conference at shortstop and could be a late-round pick in the Major League Baseball draft in early June. But tragedy struck in July 2009 when his father Mark was diagnosed with stomach cancer. Degner’s life has taken a turn. He is not running away, but embracing the things that have happened in his life. “Life was hard for me back then,” said Degner. “It still is, but it has made me learn about how much I care and love my family and that is what matters to me.” Degner is now the starting centerfielder for the Tide and he now wears number 11 — but the biggest change for Degner is that his father is no longer watching him from the bleachers. Degner said his dad is now watching from Heaven. “He is still watching me,” said Degner. “Just from a different place.” Degner began playing baseball with his older brother Nolan in Little League. “My whole family played sports,” he said. “I just grew up into it. I played outfield mostly and when I got to high school I switched to shortstop where I played until this season.” Glencoe baseball Head Coach Tim Stewart said Degner came in as a “gifted athlete.”

continue to play and I know that. Instead of him watching me on the sideline, he is still watching me play from up above.” After his dad’s death, Degner decided he needed to show more support for his family and let them know how much he truly cares for them. Degner decided to switch his number to the number his dad wore as a high school athlete. “I switched my number from 21 to 11 to show that I care a lot about my family,” said Degner. “He (Nolan) also switched his number in football. It just shows how much I care about my family.” Another way he honors his family is by writing his dad’s name in the dirt by the home plate before each at-bat. “It is just to show him that I miss him and still care about

"He (Ryan Degner) can play anywhere. That is why Mt. Hood recruited him." Tim Stewart, Glencoe High School's head baseball coach “Watching him in freshman tryouts, I saw he was a very gifted athlete,” said Stewart. “From his freshman year to sophomore year, I saw an amazing jump in his game and I knew he could only get better. He just has so much athletic ability in him and he was quicker than other players, too.” Also helping Degner was that his brother Nolan was just a year ahead of him and playing centerfield for the Tide. “He has been a big part of my game,” said Degner. “He has helped me mature on and off the field. I look up to him as a hero of mine.” Degner said his father was a big part of him playing sports as a child. “My dad was always there for me and my brother and sister,” said Degner. “He was always there for me when I needed to talk and tell me things were okay. He was like my best friend and I am glad we had more of a relationship than just father and son. He taught me more than just baseball, he taught me how to be a good teammate and the way to live my life. I will never stop thinking about my dad and what he has done for me.” Degner’s father died Aug. 29, 2009, a few days before Degner started his senior year. “It was tough when he died,” said Degner. “But I was never going to quit playing baseball. If anything, my dad would be upset with me for quitting. He would want me to

Top: Ryan Degner at bat during a game. Middle: Degner bats while his father (Mark Degner, far right) looks on. Bottom: Degner (front) signs a letter of intent to attend Mt. Hood Community College, surrounded (from left) by Glencoe High School’s Athletic Director Scott Ellis, his mother Karen Curtis and Glencoe High School’s Head Baseball Coach Tim Stewart.

him and that I think about him all the time.” Coach Stewart said Degner has been a key player for the Tide all season. “When his brother graduated, we were short in the outfield so we put him out there for the summer and he did well for us. We were solid with players up the middle so it was a good move for him,” said Stewart. “But what makes him a special player for us is he is undersized, so people underestimate him. He has a big bat, definitely the most powerful bat in the league.” Since last talking with Stewart about Degner on April 4, he was hitting .390 with seven doubles and a triple out of 10 hits on 26 at-bats. He has also stolen four bases and has eight RBIs. Stewart said, “He is a very composed and determined athlete. He will be very successful at the next level. He is motivated to succeed for his family.” According to Stewart, Degner is a five-tool athlete — he can play second base or shortstop and any position in the outfield. “He can play anywhere,” said Stewart. “That is why Mt. Hood recruited him.” The Saints first noticed Degner while he was playing in the Portland Baseball Club league when Saints assistant coach Nic Chapin saw him play. “I talked with him about playing for Mt. Hood and I got the letter to sign so I did. Mt. Hood was my number one choice. It is far enough away to leave home but I can always come back if I want to.” According to Saints Head Coach Bryan Donohue, Degner is the first guy he went after to recruit and signed.

"My whole family played sports. I just grew up into it. I played outfield mostly and when I got to high school I switched to shortstop where I played until this season." Ryan Degner, Future Saints baseball player “I saw a lot of things out of Ryan,” said Donohue. “We wanted to bring him in early. He is a solid player. We saw a smaller kid that could hit and could run really well. He will definitely be playing in the outfield for us soon.” Degner said, “Ultimately I want to go play D-1 eventually. I would like to go play at Washington State because that is where my family goes. If I go there, I would be the fifth generation to go.” As for his time at Mt. Hood, Degner plans to get into the Integrated Media field of broadcasting. “I would like to become a broadcaster,” said Degner. “I don’t really think about going pro but about what I want to do after baseball. I have always liked broadcasting but I could also see myself going to school to become a teacher and teach P.E.” According to Degner, all he wants to do is just give 100 percent on the field and make sure he shows his family love. “You know, this last year has been hard for me,” he said. “But as long as I continue to play and give a 100 percent in everything I do, I will make my dad proud.”


SPORTS

April 16, 2010

The Advocate 7

Photo by Brett Stanley/ The Advocate

Sophomore catcher Corey Davis (27) drove in the winning run in a 4-3 victory in Tuesday’s doubleheader against the Clackamas Community College Cougars. Davis ended that game 4 for 5 at the plate. The Saints lost the second game 7-2.

Saints still can’t solve problem of splitting doubleheaders

Jon Fuccillo The Advocate

The Saints baseball team continued its streak of splitting doubleheaders when they faced Clackamas Community College Tuesday at Oslund Field, winning the first game 4-3 followed by a 7-2 loss. The Saints were scheduled to play a make-up doubleheader at home Thursday against the Lane Community College Titans (2-2 in league, 11-7 overall). Results were not available at press time. The Saints are tied for second place in the Southern Region with Chemeketa Community College. Both teams are 5-3 in conference action. The Saints are 12-10 overall. The Clackamas Cougars are 5-3 in the conference, and 9-10 overall. A year ago, the Saints toppled the Cougars in all seven meetings, which included both the regular season and one playoff game. They outscored the Cougars 76-12 in those seven meetings. This series didn’t produce the same results. In game one, it came down to the bottom of the ninth inning for the Saints offense to produce with the game tied 3-3. Catcher Corey Davis stepped up to the plate with Griffin Boyd on first and Nic Fowler on second with one out after the two were walked. The sophomore belted a shot into left centerfield that drove in Boyd for the winning run. Cougars

pitcher Anthony Wirkkala (2-3) took the loss on the mound. Head Coach Bryan Donohue said this was a great opportunity for his sophomore (Davis) to get his season headed into the right direction. Davis ended the game 4 for 5 at the plate to lead the offense. The team had a total of 12 hits. “It was good for him,” the coach said about Davis driving in the winning run. “He got off to a slower start than he wanted to. But he’s fine. He just hasn’t been able to catch a lot of breaks this season. He’s been hitting the ball hard all season long” Barlow graduate Michael Seifert (1-0), in his seventh appearance of the young season, picked up the victory in relief of Jeremy Burright, who pitched eight innings. “He (Seifert) already has five saves for us,” said Donohue. “He wants the ball with the game on the line. We didn’t plan for him to be our closer. It just kind of happened.” In game two, the Saints couldn’t get to the pitching of the Cougars sophomore Taylor Hill (3-1), who threw a complete seven-inning game. Hill Struck out three batters and gave up six hits in the victory. Jon Yearout (3-3) picked up two losses on consecutive outings for the Saints. The 6’7’’ lefty tossed five and one-third innings before Donohue yanked him. By this time, the damage had already been done. The Saints were trailing 6-2 with two more atbats left in the game.

“Jon wasn’t great,” said Donohue on his freshman’s pitching performance. “He wasn’t on and we made mistakes (errors) behind him. Plus we didn’t hit well.” The Saints committed two costly errors in the first inning that helped the Cougars score three unearned runs. Centerfielder Michael Blake and second baseman Fowler scored the only two Saints runs of the game in the first inning. The first run came after a throwing error by the Cougars pitcher Hill, who threw a ball over his first baseman’s head into right field. The second run came off the bat of third baseman Danny Clifford who was awarded a fielders choice RBI. The Saints committed more errors (3) than they scored runs (2). Donohue said his team is very close to finding its stride and doesn’t feel that anyone should write them off as a contender. “Our best baseball is in front of us,” he said. “We just haven’t peaked yet. Not to make up any excuses but we have lots of young guys (six freshmen starters including an all freshmen pitching staff) out there and it’s been a tough year injury-wise. It just sucks that we can’t string together consecutive wins. But honestly we are fine. We’ve gotten so much better offensively.” The Saints host the Linn-Benton Community College Roadrunners Friday in a doubleheader at 1 p.m. The Saints took down the Roadrunners on April 1 (14-4 and 3-0).

Baseball conference standings

TURN QUALIFYING CREDITS

into a career

School

W-L

Pct.

W-L

Clackamas Chemeketa Mt. Hood Lane SW Oregon Linn-Benton

4-2 5-3 5-3 2-2 2-4 0-4

.667 .625 .625 .500 .333 .000

9-10 15-4 12-10 11-7 7-9 4-14

Tues. April. 13 - Oslund Field

Game 1: Mt. Hood Saints 4, Clackamas Cougars 3 WP - Michael Seifert

LP - Anthony Wirkkala

Game 2: Mt. Hood Saints 2, Clackamas Cougars 7 WP - Taylor Hill

LP - Jon Yearout

Softball conference standings School

W-L

Pct.

W-L

Clackamas Lower Columbia Mt. Hood SW Oregon Chemeketa Clark

4-0 1.000 14-5 4-0 1.000 20-1 3-1 .750 14-4 1-3 .250 17-3 0-4 .000 12-9 0-4 .000 8-11

Sat. April. 10 - MHCC’s field

Game 1: Mt. Hood Saints 5, SW Oregon Lakers 8 WP - Annaleisha Parsley

LP - Kayla Anderson

Game 2: Mt. Hood Saints 2, SW Oregon Lakers 0 WP - Myranda Sawyer

LP - Molly Hockema

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Portland / Mt Hood College / 6.1x7 / 1.29.10

• Baseball plays Friday, April 17, vs. Linn-Benton at Oslund Field in a doubleheader. Games start at 1 p.m. • Baseball plays Tuesday, April 20, vs. Lane at Eugene in a doubleheader. Games start at 1 p.m.

• Softball plays Friday, April 17, vs. Treasure Valley at Yakima. Game starts at 11 a.m.

• Baseball plays Saturday, April 24, vs. Chemeketa at Oslund Field in a doubleheader. Games start at 1 p.m. • Baseball plays Tuesday, April 27, vs. SW Oregon at Oslund Field in a doubleheader. Games start at 1 p.m.

• Softball plays Saturday, April 18, vs. Bellevue at Yakima. Game starts at 11 a.m. • Softball plays Saturday, April 18, vs. Grays Harbor at Yakima. Game starts at 1 p.m.

• Softball plays Friday, April 17, vs. Centralia at Yakima. Game starts at 3 p.m.


SPORTS

8 The Advocate

April 16, 2010

Jesse Taylor

A

s a new college club that was approved last fall, the House of P.A.I.N. weightlifting club plans to organize and make a positive impact for students and the community. Robert Weinman, academic adviser of House of P.A.I.N. and Business & Industry Training Coordinator of Economic and Workforce Development, said Tuesday he plans to get a record board (used to compare everyone’s weightlifting records), currently being built by facilities, for the club and he hopes it will be ready for use sometime this month. “That’s our main gig,” said Weinman. “Once we get that up, I think we will have a lot more momentum because people will be asking about that.” Jesse Taylor, a GED student and founder of the club, said he started the club because he has an interest in weightlifting and he enjoys “helping people.” Weinman met Taylor in the GED program while working in Adult Basic Skills. He says one of the club’s goals is to get GED students involved, so other GED students will be encouraged to join and start clubs of their own. “One of the things that I think is unique is there’s been very little activity in terms of students in Adult Basic Skills starting clubs here,” said Weinman. “We need to connect the GED students more with this campus because they come in, do their class, and disappear, where a lot of the other students that come in and do their classes know more about the facilities here; they’re just doing a lot of time here, so they connect with the organizations a lot better.” After hearing from people who thought the name of the club was “intimidating” and finding out it’s not original — being used by a clothing company of the same name — Weinman and Taylor created an acronym from the word P.A.I.N. to stand for power, athleticism, intensity and nutrition. Weinman said the new title “utilizes all the aspects of weight training.” “We got to talking and it just seemed like he would be a really good person to get something like this started,” said Weinman. “I took him to the weight room a couple of times and people just rallied around him because he’s a big guy and people ask, ‘How did you get that way?’ and he just starts talking. And so it just seemed like a natural fit that he would start this club.” Taylor jokingly said he gets asked so many questions at the gym that he thinks he should “get paid for it.” “Even the trainers at my gym ask me for advice and they’re the ones with the high school, college

Story and Photos by Devin Courtright education, or whatever schooling they had to go through for training.” One of the things Weinman said was influential in forming the club was noticing lots students regularly working out from noon to 1 p.m. and having introductory courses in weight training but “weren’t sure what to do next.” “They would come in and lift and they weren’t really staying on a schedule,” said Weinman. “They would do that for another term and then they would fade away.” So far the club has about 12 people in it, with the majority of them being GED students. Weinman said, “Right now they’re just on an e-mail mailing list and everyone is just waiting for the record board to go up.” “The record board is going to have the three power lifting events: bench press, squat and dead lift. Those are our three lifts that are fairly easy to judge. There are very clear instructions on how to judge it and how to conduct the lift. They’re easy to spot (and) they’re not real dynamic.” Weinman said, “There are Olympic events, too, but we’re not going to cover that because they’re too hard to judge. The Olympic lifts are dynamic and they’re not easy to spot. While those are really good lifts to incorporate in the training, we just want to focus on these three right now,” said Weinman. Weinman said the record board will be a “general” feature popular in other weight rooms. “That’s going to be our sign board is this record board and then inevitably people will look at that and say, ‘I can get that, I can beat that.’ So they’ll connect with the club that way.” “What we want to do is actually put something on the (web) site somewhere in the background that we can update, too,” said Weinman. “High schools have a page on their website where they have their record board, like baseball here has a record board and track has a record board. So we would eventually put it in there. That would be good.” Asked if the club will eventually have its own website, Weinman said, “Well that’s kind of ambitious but it would be cool.” Despite not having the record board up, Weinman said students are interested and willing to wait for it to be up and running before they join the club; even if it means having their name up on the record board for a “week or two.” “It’s so funny because some people have asked about it and they say, ‘Well, give me a call right when it goes up because I want to come in and break the record for my class because I know it will only last for a week or two.’ They just want to get their name up and some of them

House of P.A.I.N. founder Jesse Taylor spots John Saint-Felix on the bench press during one of the club workout sessions. The club has 12 students actively involved.

will beat that but they want to get their name up for the week if they can,” said Weinman. Besides trying to get people interested in joining the club, Weinman also wants to get students more aware of the athletic teams that use the weight room and have them network with each other. “A lot of the athletic teams use that weight room,” said Weinman. “The baseball team uses it a lot (and)

the volleyball team uses it a lot. What we’ve witnessed is the Mt. Hood teams all use that weight room.” “We recognized that every sport should have some element of weight training in it and bring attention to incorporating that into all the different sports. It’s just another way of connecting those people,” said Weinman. Weinman said another goal of the club is eventually to host

weightlifting events on campus. He says there are a lot of different weightlifting activities in the area, such as power lifting events, body lifting shows, and strength competitions that are “always looking for venues and Mt. Hood is a good venue at that.” “All those things would be fun to explore — how we can host that as a club — it would be a good way to get people on campus,” said

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1/11/10 2:26 PM


April 16, 2010

A&E

'Having a Blast'

The cast of 'Godspell' looks to bring the avant-garde musical to MHCC Chelsea Van Baalen The Advocate

The cast of “Godspell” is “having a blast” with rehearsals that have been “going well,” according to Director Rick Zimmer. Cast member Adam Davis, who portrays John/Judas, said “Godspell” is fun because “the show itself is a lot like a party in a playful, innocent way.” The cast has been rehearsing for two weeks and is comprised of 10 members, with nine first-year students and one returning student. Zimmer said seven of the 10 students participated in the winter production “King Lear.” “This demonstrates the versatility of these student actors,” he added. Davis said, “I like the opportunity to do a show that’s not typical. It’s an avant-garde piece.” Davis said that with “Godspell,” there’s a lot of creativity and room to experiment. He said that with this room to experiment, the cast has “to be really cohesive” because the play “is so loose.” Zimmer said the cast has good chemistry, lending a hand to the production due to amount of improvisation involved in the play. Zimmer said the cast will be working on their improvisation skills, “just to loosen up, get the imagination and creativity flowing.” “‘Godspell’ is about storytelling. What we want to do is bring those stories to life with their own expression,” he said. To deal with the music and singing involved with “Godspell,” Zimmer has brought in Genesis Director Dave Barduhn as the vocal director. “We wanted to get the actors comfortable with the music right off the bat,” he said. “There are a lot of harmonies. The music isn’t as easy as it sounds (the first time).” “Godspell” performances begin May 6 at 7:30 p.m. in the Studio Theater. Additional performances will be held May 7, 8, 13, 14 and 15 at 7:30 p.m. and May 9 and 16 at 2 p.m. in the Studio Theater. Admission is general seating at $15 per person.

Cast List JESUS… Coleton Sticka JOHN/JUDAS… Adam Davis SONIA… Lauren Luiz PEGGY… Sara Rossi HERB… Clay Lindquist GILMER… Amanda Pred JEFFREY… Alex Bowman ROBIN… Emily Estrada LAMAR… Leif Tjaden JOANNE… RoAnna Mitchell

"The show itself is a lot like a party in a playful, innocent way." Adam Davis, John/Judas

"'Godspell' is about storytelling. What we want to do is bring those stories to life.... "

Rick Zimmer, "Godspell" director

Photos by Brett Stanley/The Advocate

The cast of “Godspell” rehearses in the Studio Theater Wednesday. The musical will open May 6 in the Studio Theater at 7:30 p.m.

The Advocate 9


10

MUSIC

The Advocate

Join MHCC Jazz Band for an

April 16, 2010

CD Previews

afro-peruvian affair

Rufus Wainwright All Days Are Nights: Songs for Lulu

Jen Ashenberner

purchased in advance at www.mhcc.edu/music; $12 at the door the day of the event; students are $5 advance purchase and $7 at the In the midst of a US tour, the Gabriel Alegria Sextet will be stop- door. The proceeds resulting from the cost of admission to the event ping by the MHCC campus April 26 at 7:30 p.m. to showcase their Afro-Peruvian slant on jazz music, according to Susie Jones, director will go to help the MHCC Jazz Band pay off its recent trip to Taiwan as well as a scholarship fund for the David Douglas High School of the MHCC Jazz Band. “The rest of the world has embraced jazz more than we (Ameri- Music Department, said Jones. In the past, the MHCC Jazz Band has hosted benefit concerts for cans) have,” said Jones. “Jazz in Peru is a little different than jazz Cleveland High School’s music in Russia or jazz in Beliz. department, American Music Even more so, European Program (an after-school music jazz is quite different than program), and Heritage High American jazz.” School, to name a few. According to Alegria’s “We wanted to include a website, the music named different school this time,” said Afro-Peruvian is a combiJones. nation of Alegria’s personJones urges the MHCC comal approach to American munity to come to the event and jazz with his “passionate help support the two programs. interest and careful study “I’m going to do some major of the music of black arm twisting to get people to coastal Peru.” come to this one,” she said. His contribution to jazz It will be well worth the monhas been unique because ey and Jones said, “It won’t be of the way he incorporates just a favor to the Mt. Hood muand explores the “common sic department but it will be very African roots found in both musically satisfying.” styles.” The Afro-Peruvian experiAlegria contacted Jones ence will not be limited to music, after scheduling tour dates Gabriel Alegria according to Jones. “You can get throughout the US bea total cultural experience,” she said. Chartwells will provide a buffet cause he had performed at MHCC about three years ago. “He asked if we (MHCC) wanted them to come and perform with Afro-Peruvian cuisine as well as beer and wine for those who are 21 years of age and over. here again since they would be in the area,” said Jones. The buffet will be available in the lobby at 6:30 p.m. for a sepa“The last time they were here, it was extremely good entertainment and a high quality concert. That’s when we decided we would rate cost ranging from $5 to $10 including beer and wine. For more information, contact Jones at Susie.Jones@mhcc.edu turn it into a fundraising event.” Admission to the event in the College Theater is $10 for tickets or 503-491-7158. The Advocate

MHCC Jazz Band 'riffs' the house at Portland’s Jimmy Mak's lounge

In “AllDays Are Nights: Songs For Lulu.” Wainright features nine original works and adaptations of William Shakespeare’s sonnets, “Sonnet 10,“Sonnet 20” and “Sonnet 43.”

The Apples in Stereo Travelers in Space and Time

Elijah Wood’s record label, Simian, teams up with Yep Roc and Elephant 6 to release the Apples in Stereo’s seventh studio album, “Travelers in Space and Time.”

Caribou Swim

Contributed Photos by Heather Clapp

Susie Jones, director of MHCC Jazz Band, leads the band through a performance held at Jimmy Mak’s in Portland Tuesday night. The band opened for jazz musician Mel Brown and performed with harmonica player Joe Powers. Jones said, “It was a great performance, very exciting.”

i wonder ...

Orchestra holds benefit for David Douglas High School music department Jen Ashenberner The Advocate

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The proceeds gained from Monday night’s Strings Benefit Concert have been awarded to the David Douglas High School Music Department in an effort to help support the local music education community, according to Marshall Tuttle, director of the MHCC Orchestra. Susie Jones, director of the MHCC Jazz Band and music instructor, said there are only two schools in the district that have strings programs: David Douglas High School and Reynolds High School. Asked how the decision is made as to which school gets the benefit proceeds, “We (MHCC) usually swap back and forth and they (the high schools) take turns,” she said.

Tuttle said, “The David Douglas Orchestra, under the able direction of MHCC alumna Ms. Michelle Lindberg, performed a concerto for violin and cello by Vivaldi and two movements from Elgar’s Suite for Strings.” The MHCC Orchestra performed “Dies bildniss ist bezaubernd shon” from Mozart’s Magic Flute featuring a solo from MHCC student Jeff Staples. Another piece that Tuttle said exceeded his expectations was the Adagietto from Mahler’s Fifth Symphony. Neither Tuttle or Jones were able to give an estimate of how much money was raised at the event but Tuttle said the funds were turned over directly to a representative of David Douglas High School.

Formally know as Manitoba, Canadian Daniel Victor Snaith releases “Swim,” his eleventh album under the name Caribou. “Swim,” is the follow up to the 2008 Polaris Music Prize winning album, “Andorra.”

Willie Nelson Country Music

The album title says it all. The 76-year-old Nelson’s new album covers such classics as Hank William’s “House of Gold” and Merle Travis’ “Dark as a Dungeon.”


MUSIC

April 16, 2010

RO C K I N ’

The Advocate 11

BLOOD DRIVE

MUSIC..

HULA-HOOPING..

DANCING.. Photos by L. John King/The Advocate

The Student Activities Board put on a show Wednesday in the Main Mall with guest vocalist Justin Caldwell. Performing with Caldwell were MHCC alumnus Ben Darwish on piano and Dallas Huber on bass, said Susie Jones, director of the MHCC Jazz Band. During the show, various tables were set up with activities like hula-hoop, ping-pong, and facepainting. According to Meadow McWhorter, student events & center coordinator, SAB used the event as a marketing tool to get the word out about other events they have scheduled throughout the term.

Student takes on additional job as 'Green Machine' manager Story and Photos by Mario Rubio

W

hen saxophonist Ryan Carlson is not playing with the MHCC Jazz Band, he might be found playing around town with a sevenpiece band made up of musicians from three area colleges. In his second year with the MHCC Jazz Band, Carlson is also manager and alto saxophone player for the Green Machine Jazz Ensemble, a swing inspired septet and performs at private events and clubs such as Jimmy Mak’s in downtown Portland. Along with Carlson, band members include Ryan Westerlund on alto saxophone and Kenny MacDaniels on drums, both from Clackamas Community College; James Pham, on guitar and Darin O’Brian on upright bass, both from PSU; and Dan Gonzalez on piano and Abi Mitschelle on baritone saxophone, both from MHCC. The band doesn’t have a full-time vocalist but will feature one from time to time depending on the performance. “We don’t feel the need to add on a full-time performer as we mostly do instrumental stuff,” said Carlson. He said he took over management of the group a little less than a year ago following the death of the band’s founder, Alexander Spycher. Spycher, who was a close friend of Carlson’s, named the group after his

Music Be at l i r p A FRE

APRIL 16TH 1955 Packard Patrician that he was restoring when they formed the band in their senior year at Clackamas High School. “In addition to being a big fan of music, he also enjoyed cars,” said Carlson of Spycher. Carlson said taking on the responsibility of managing the group was not easy but his commitment was strong and it has since become enjoyable. One of the biggest gigs the group has had was performing at Macy’s at Washington Square Mall for Sarah Jessica Parker’s Fragrance debut, with Parker in the crowd. Carlson said past MHCC Jazz Band alumni such as Patrick Lamb and past music instructor Paul Desmond have served as some of his influences and inspirations. Carlson said he came to MHCC because of its strong jazz program and because of the influence jazz and classical music has on him. He said there wasn’t any specific reason why he enjoys the saxophone. “Initially, I liked it because of its look” Carlson said. Now in his third year at MHCC, Carlson is set on making music, and especially jazz, a main priority in his life. After he finishes at MHCC, he wants to transfer to PSU and earn a degree in business and music with goals of opening his own jazz bar/lounge. “Ryan has been a good musician and a very reliable member of our music department and has contributed to many of our ensembles over the years, performing not just in jazz band but also symphonic band” said Suzie Jones, MHCC Jazz Band director. In addition to playing the alto saxophone, Carlson also plays the clarinet. The clarinet was his instrumental piece last year when he was on the school orchestra; this year he is focusing more on the Jazz Band where he plays alto sax. Asked why the saxophone is his instrument of choice, he said, “ You can do a lot of things with the saxophone, a lot of things you couldn’t ordinarily do with a brass instrument” Carlson is set to perform with MHCC’s Jazz Band April 26 at 7:30 p.m. as part of the MHCC/ David Douglas Jazz Orchestra Benefit alongside the Gabriel Allegria Afro-Peruvian Sextet.

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Want your name in headlines? Are you in a local band operated outside of school?

Then we want to talk to you! E-mail the music editor with your name, your band’s name, type of music you play, and a phone number you can be reached at advocatt@mhcc.edu.


12

NEWS

The Advocate

April 16, 2010

'Growing by leaps and bounds'

The Hospitality and Tourism program's Café Thursday returns with a new facet: Café Tuesday Devin Courtright
 The Advocate

Photos by Devin Courtright / The Advocate

Top: Student Logan Fjelstad serves Helena Magana and Javier Moreno at Café Tuesday. Right: MHCC History Instructor Pat Casey dines with guests at Café Tuesday. Below: Student John Engebretson takes the order of Eldon McMurra at Café Tuesday.

"As people learn about it more and more, we'll get busier as the term progresses. It's great for the college too..." Angela DeHaven, Hospitality and Tourism program student

“Café Thursday” has returned this spring to Mt. Hood Community College’s Jazz Café, but this year’s Hospitality and Tourism event has a new twist: There will be Café Tuesdays as well. Court Carrier, Hospitality and Tourism program director, is in charge of Café Thursday and Suzy Bicknese, part-time catering events instructor, is in charge of Café Tuesday. “The reason we’re doing it like that this year is because the program grew so much,” said student Angela DeHaven, who managed this week’s Café Tuesday. “The hospitality program is growing by leaps and bounds and the admissions in the spring term 2010 are so large they had to split this class in two. Enrollment is going from an average of 27 to 65. It’s really, really growing.” Bicknese said, “We had to give the students the same for each class. We also had to have a restaurant area and that experience as well, so we had to create that – that was the difficult part because we had to have enough culinary students to run each. The chef (for Café Tuesdays), I think, only ended up with six students and we had to have enough to run the restaurant and enough to run the floor. It was really kind of a tightrope kind of thing and it finally worked out.” Café Tuesday’s debut had 68 people show up, with 54 reservations and 14 without reservations. Bicknese said, “We really appreciate the support. We weren’t sure how we would do today but we are glad we got that many guests.” The cafés are scheduled to alternate each week. Bicknese said the Jazz Café can seat up to 78 people from 11:30 a.m. to 12:20 p.m. The three -course meal every week consists of a small plate, an entrée, and a dessert, along with a beverage, all for $10. Each café has a theme for its menu each week; last week’s Café Thursday was Italian and Café Tuesday was Caribbean. Phil Hawkins, chef instructor and Café Tuesday chef, said, “I could have done Greek or Middle Eastern but I felt the Haitian earthquake was still fresh in everybody’s mind,” said Hawkins. “It’s warming up, and it’s good spring time food. Hawkins said next week’s theme for Café Thursday, April 22, will be Pacific Rim and the following week’s Café Tuesday (April 27) will have a Southern BBQ theme. To make a reservation for Café Tuesday or Thursday, either call (503) 491-7230 or e-mail htrpt@mhcc.edu. “As people learn about it more and more, we’ll get busier as the term progresses,” said DeHaven. “It’s great for the college, too, because if we can really market the Hospitality and Tourism Program, it’s going to bring a lot of visibility at Mt. Hood in a good way,” said DeHaven. Bicknese said, “If we have this much enrollment next spring, I’m sure we will do it again. I think it’s a good opportunity for students because they can correlate what they learn in the classroom with reality,”

Advising: Changes imminent

ASG candidates announced

M. Michael Rose

Jordan Tichenor

The Advocate

Changes are coming to the way MHCC advises its students. In October 2009, the NWCCU, the organization which provides accreditation for educational bodies in the Northwest, returned to campus for an interim visit. The result of their visit was a progress report that made several suggestions to the school. Among the suggestions within the report were guidelines for the college to implement an advising system that “encourage(s) meaningful participation of faculty and staff in a collaborative effort to strengthen advising support to students.” Vice President for Student Success and Enrollment Management David Minger said, “We want to have an advising system that understands where a student is starting from and where they are trying to get to,” The concept Minger is working on is a system that helps students quickly find out what they need to graduate and addresses the individual educational needs of students. “A student straight out of high school is different than someone with a bachelors that is coming back,” he said. Minger said he is looking for different software to test that will provide easier communication between faculty and staff advisers and allow them to provide more in-depth help to individual stu-

dents by automating some of the question and answer process. ”If we automate the routine questions in whatever way we can, that is going to give staff more time to work with people who have unique problems and challenges,” he said. Presently a student can email advising a question and it will be received by the entire advising email group. Minger wants to take this idea and use it in a live setting by possibly implementing a live chat feature to answer students more complex advising questions. A possible roadblock could be staffing costs, however. “With the college budget demands and everything else, if we make that commitment to students we have to make sure we staff it adequately,” said Minger. According to Minger, the changes coming to advising are less concerned with saving the college money and more concerned with providing students with easier access to the help they need. “The idea of automating may not reduce staff costs but what it would do is allow us to spend more time with students working on some of those gnarly problems that you can’t really just resolve in a couple of minutes,” Minger said. Asked if the changes being made could have the added effect of cutting other costs to the school, he said, “Well, I think so. It is a possibility.”

The Advocate

Nikki Jauron, Jon Francis, and Dee Hawes Sr. have filed for Associated Student Government president. The candidates run on a ticket with a vice presidential running mate. Francis will be running with Larry Collins, Hawes will be running with Richard Ison and Jauron will be running with Heather

Tarabella. Tarabella is the legal name of Heather Nichelle-Peres, who has been involved in student government for the last two years. The candidates can begin campaigning April 26, with debates on April 28 and 29. Voting will begin May 3 and the polls will close May 6. Voting is done online through the MHCC website. The winner will be announced May 8 at the Spring Dinner Dance.

Nikki Jauron and Heather Tarabella

Larry

Collin s

and Jo

n Fran

cis

Photos by Jordan Tichenor/The Advocate

D

nd es Sr. a ee Haw

Richard

Ison


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