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VOLUME 52, ISSUE 11 | THURSDAY MARCH. 9, 2017 | www.meramecmontage.com

CCAMPIS program aims to keep parents in school at Meramec

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Stephen Buechter Staff Writer

The CCAMPIS program is a need-based federal grant program intended to keep parents who need education in school.

CCAMPIS stands for Child Care Access Means Parents in School, and has always been called by that same name. It has existed for a number of years, at least two, said Claire Martin, Student Assistance Program Manager.

Martin said that the program could be described as a federal grant that the school offers to students with children to help those students pay for childcare services while they are taking classes. The program provides monetary support if parents place their children in a childcare program that is licensed and accredited by the state. Martin said that the amount of money given “takes into consideration the income of the person who applies, how many children they have, the type of classes that they’re taking, the amount of time that they would need to study.”

Martin further said the CCAMPIS program “can be combined with state child care… so that provides them with even more money to pay for childcare… They don’t have to use everything at once. The one thing that we always remind them is that it’s use it or lose it, so they cannot carry it over to the next semester. They have to apply each semester.”

Martin stated that while state funding for programs similar to CCAMPIS has dropped on a state level, the federal funding for CCAMPIS has remained. CCAMPIS program coordinator Dr. Selena Eunice Washington said that it is unclear as of now whether the amount of federal funding for the program could see cuts in the near future, but that the college

Continued on page 3

STLCC may offer baccalaureate degrees

Missouri House votes to pass bill geared toward community colleges

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Katie Hayes Editor-in-Chief

Missouri community colleges may soon offer more than associate degrees and transferrable credits. The Missouri House of Representatives voted to pass a bill which would allow community colleges to grant baccalaureate degrees.

Chancellor Jeff Pittman was involved in creating HB 758, which was introduced by Representative Steve Cookson. The House voted to pass the bill on March 1.

“I think it’s very exciting,” Pittman said. “Missouri would not be the first state, but I think we have some unique programs and we want to develop some programs that are workforce specific.”

The baccalaureate degree would be an applied bachelor’s

degree, which places more emphasis on technical components of programs.

Pittman said two of the programs STLCC would consider proposing for applied bachelor degree programs are its physical therapy assistant program and its deaf communications program. “[The deaf communications program] takes such a high number of credit hours to be at the certification they [students] need to begin with,” Pittman said.

Pittman said he believes the coordinating board for higher education would accept up to two proposals from the community college sector as soon as this coming fiscal year, which is July 1.

The bill would only allow community colleges to offer specific baccalaureate programs if those programs did not “unnecessarily duplicate an existing program”

Baccalaureate Programs at Missouri community colleges

Continued on page 2

Photo by: Erik Muschinske

Peanut Butter Project saves 750 thousand lives

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Bri Heaney Staff Writer

The charity focus of the year at St. Louis Community College Meramec is Project Peanut Butter.

Project Peanut Butter is a charity that is focused on putting an end to the leading cause of child mortality in the world: malnutrition.

The scope of the program is

international with primary outlets in the areas most deeply affected, which include Ghana, Sierra Leon, and Malawi.

With roots that can be traced back to our city, St. Louis is at the center of action in the USA when it comes to this charity, with Dr. Mark Manary spearheading the project here.

Manary’s wife also works with him here in St. Louis along

with Martin Hinstad, Desso Shuckero, and Maleeha Ahmad.

“Mark Manary is a doctor from Washington university who does some groundbreaking work on formulating therapeutic food for everyone from starving children to pregnant and nursing women,” Meramec student Kyle Luzynski said.

Manary worked to develop a

Continued on page 3

Midterm Fuel

Fowler has right to call ‘foul’

Midterms usually mean a lot of studying, often in a coffee shop with a good brew and free wifi. Here are three places to check out this test-taking season.

Cardinals center fielder Dexter Fowler spoke out against President Trump’s immigration ban, earning him much hate from fans who think he should keep his political opinions to himself.

Photo by: Bri Heaney

Full Story on page 4

2 | News

March 9, 2017

Police, profiling, and training the community Law enforcement and faculty discuss racial bias in policing

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Sean E. Thomas News Editor

On Wednesday, Feb. 22, Meramec hosted a panel to discuss current police-community relations.

The Black Student Engagement and Empowerment Club organized the discussion and it was moderated

by Dr. Emily Neal, associate professor of political science. The panel was comprised of Chief Anthony Russo of Meramec campus police, April Cayce, a retired officer currently with Serving with the Badge, Mario Love, an adjunct instructor of history and Anthony Anderson, a retired officer currently with the Police Athletic League.

The conversation began with a topic that has been at the forefront of police and community interactions: profiling.

“What can I do if I stop somebody and understand there’s that ‘I’m afraid’ mentality, what can I do to reduce your fear plus stay safe?” Russo asked.

This was the beginning of what became a recurring topic during the one-anda-half-hour discussion, police safety during interac-

tions with the community.

This prompted a reference to the shooting death of Philando Castile on July 6, 2016 by an officer with the St. Anthony Police Department in Minnesota.

“That brief interaction resulted in the young man’s life,” Love said. “The officer would argue that there is a real…fear. Mr. Castile would probably argue that he had second amendment rights ...but somewhere throughout that interaction, Mr. Castile lost his life.”

A question posed to Anderson by Meramec Student Liam Murphy regarding Anderson being both African-American and a police officer, was met with an explanation of why officers approach vehicles with their hands placed on their weapons, leaving the original question unanswered.

“The issue is ingrained with the system that we have now so we’re trying to make these small changes but they seem to all lead to a dead end,” Meramec student Craig Latiker said.

Russo continuously moved the topic of discussion back towards ways in which the community could help make police officers feel more safe during interac-

tions.

“Here’s where I don’t think we do a very good job, we don’t train the public well enough,” said Russo.

Although acting as moderator, Neal could not help but interject Photo by: Katie Hayes with concerns of her own.

Members of the panel on police, profiling and training on Feb. 22 take questions “Is it the from the audience. Seated from left is Retired Officer Anthony Anderson, c o m m u n i t y Adjunct History Instructor Mario Love, Retired Officer April Cayce and Meramec that needs to Police Chief Anthony Russo. be trained, or is it the folks individuals are indeed danIn an interview after that chose that position in public service?” gerous, as far as the way the discussion Love was that they dress, or maybe asked about a possible disNeal asked.

Love offered his in terms of how they look,” connect between how the community perceives the thoughts on problems fac- Love said.

Members of law en- police and how the police ing citizens and law enforcement when interpret- forcement continued in interpret that perception.

“There are elements ing and implementing the their defense of profiling.

“There is probably of law enforcement that spirit of the Constitution.

While recognizing that pro- 95 to 97 percent of Afri- don’t think systematically, filing can lead to the safety can-American males wear they think primarily based and successes for law en- (sic) blue jeans, white on interactions they have forcement, Love also point- t-shirts and dreadlocks,” with John Q. Citizen, to the ed to some of the implica- Anderson said. “You fitting extent that [when it comes that profile, you are actually to] ramifications of biased tions of this behavior.

“While racial profiling more prone to get stopped policing, they sort of defer to law enforcement may be ... If they put out a descrip- that to institutions of crimnecessary, the consequenc- tion, ‘a subject dressed like inal justice that go beyond es come in larger interpre- corky the clown’, we gonna the precinct and I think that is a mistake,” Love said. tations as to whether or not stop all the clowns.”

Baccalaureate: HP 758 needs to pass Senate Continued from page 1

A T

M E R A M E C

The Music Program at Meramec offers courses and ensembles for all students.

Classes are available for general education credit and the Associate in Arts degree with an emphasis in Music to prepare for transfer into a Bachelor of Music program. ** SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE **

COURSES

MUS 101,102,201,202 MUS 103 MUS 113 MUS 114 MUS 115,116 MUS 121,122,221,222 MUS 128 MUS 130 MUS 138,139,216 MUS 141,142,241,242 MUS 150 MUS 211,212

Music Theory I,II,III,IV Basic Music The History of Jazz The Enjoyment of Music Class Voice I,II Class Piano I,II,III,IV Survey of Rock Music Beginning Guitar Jazz Improvisation I,II,III Applied Music (Lessons) I,II,III,IV Fundamentals of Music Technology Music History I,II

Interested in performing in an ensemble?

at another university or if collaboration with another university was not feasible.

This means offering baccalaureate programs at STLCC would involve collaborating with University of Missouri - St. Louis and Harris Stowe University.

“We would first have to reach out to University of Missouri - St. Louis and Harris Stowe University to see if they had interest in pursuing it [the programs STLCC would plan to offer],” Pittman said.

While HB 758 still needs to pass through the Senate, there is another bill in the House related to higher education and baccalaureate programs.

HB 744 was sponsored

by Representative Rick Brattin.

This bill states that “Offering a baccalaureate degree program under this section does not otherwise alter the role and mission of any community college.”

For St. Louis Community College, this means the degrees it potentially offers must be focused on workforce solutions.

“If you look at our mission, we’re about preparing individuals for the workforce or the workplace or both of those combined,” Pittman said. “We don’t have a research component. We are focused on teaching and learning — focused on training.”

All Meramec students may participate. No audition is required!

ENSEMBLES

Music 132 – Orchestra Music 133 – Jazz Lab Band Music 134 – Symphonic Band Music 135 – Concert Choir, Chamber Singers and Voices of Magic jazz choir All ensembles hold a seat/part assignment hearing during the first rehearsal.

Members of the Concert Choir may audition for the Chamber Singers and/or the Voices of Magic jazz choir.

For more information, contact the Meramec Music Department Gary Gackstatter, Director of Instrumental Music, ggackstatter@stlcc.edu, (314) 984-7636 Dr. Jerry Myers, Director of Choral Activities & Music Theory, gmyers34@stlcc.edu, (314) 984-7638

Highlights from the Feb. 23 Board of Trustees Meeting • The South County Education and University Center’s name changed to St. Louis Community College – South County • Due to the cuts in funding, 30 unfilled positions will remain vacant until at least June 2017 • KAI Design & Build presented their design proposal for the Allied Health Building at Forest Park. The proposed design would be complete by the fall 2019 semester.

News | 3 Project Peanut Butter: It takes ‘$4.25 to feed a child for a week’ 4 9, 2017 March

Continued from page 1 practical formula for treating malnutrition. One that would be cost effective and potent.

“Mark Manary developed the most effective treatment for malnutrition ever conceived,” Luzynski said. “Whereas conventional hospitalization would save 25-40% of children from severe malnutrition, his treatment, which relies on a therapeutic peanut butter paste, has the power to cure 95% of children suffering from malnutrition.”

The formula made by Manary consist of vegetable oil, sugar, micro-nutrients and milk powder. The paste is consumed over a span of eight weeks and has a 95% success rate.

“To take a child who is severely malnourished, whose bones you can see, who looks utterly miserable and to transform them into a happy healthy toddler in just four to eight weeks is astounding to me,“ Luzynski said.

The span of time it takes to cure malnutrition is short and the range of children saved by this charity is massive and the results long lasting, he said.

“The transformation that this program reaps in the lives of not just a few individuals, but 750,000 individuals each year is absolutely empowering, inspiring, and amazing.” Said Luzynski, “Once you build up a vitamin store on a food that is highly nutritive you can go years without developing another issue.”

The betterments of this project are, according to the UN, the best yet to have come along in the battle against malnutrition.

“The U.N. even concluded that his [Manary] ready-to-use peanut butter paste is the most effective known treatment to severe malnu-

trition,” said Luzynski.

The effects of malnutrition are life lasting and often fatal.

“Project Peanut Butter reaches 750 thousand children per year, half of whom would die if untreated,” said Luzynski. Children who don’t live through malnutrition however will have long-term, lifelong effects. Project Peanut Butter helps children receive nutrients that are crucial to development.

“It protects them from life long harm,” Luzynski said. “When a child is severely malnourished, the implications will reach across the rest of their life. In many cases children who are malnourished, their brain will struggle to grow and they will be left with lifelong learning impairments as a result of severe malnutrition during a critical period of development.”

While the demand for a cure is high the demand from students who want to help is low. “$4.25 can feed a child for an entire week, that’s less than it costs you to buy one meal in the cafeteria,” Luzynski said. The ‘ask’ is direct, it takes 25 dollars to save a child’s life forever. “We couldn’t ask for something more effective; where else can you donate 25 dollars and save someone’s life?”

The goals of Meramec contributions are ambitious.

“We hope to raise $5,000 for Project Peanut Butter saving an estimated 143 children,” Luzynski goes on to say, “We have set this high goal for ourselves to save as many children as possible.”

However, capital is not the only thing that the charity is in need of on a local level.

“We could truly use more help to plan events,” Luzynski said, encouraging more students to join the Charity Committee at Meramec.

“Imagine what it would be like

Photo by: Erik Muschinske Student Camille Hernandez, chair of the Student Activities Council, and Melissa Deweaver, a student volunteer, serves food at the campus Mardi Gras celebration Feb. 24 in the Student Center. All proceeds went to Project Peanut Butter. to die by starvation, imagine what it’s like to watch your child die knowing there is nothing you can do,” Luzynski said. “We all have inklings of suffering, that can help us connect the dots.”

More so, Luzynski said, we can all benefit from contributing to the well being of others.

“We should not lose hope because of this overwhelming reality of suffering in the world,” Luzynski said. “Instead we should embrace it even though that means we will take on some of the pain of the world, but once we have taken on that pain of the world we can realize our most authentic selves.”

CCAMPIS: Program helps meet childcare needs of students each semester Continued from page 1 “plans to reapply for the CCAMPIS grant this year to cover the 20172021 cycle.”

Martin said that St. Louis Community College - Florissant Valley is the only STLCC campus which has an on-campus daycare program available to students, and that the St. Louis Community College — Meramec campus had such a program.

However, Martin said that at Meramec, “we could not afford to keep it for long, so [we] had to get rid of it.” Dr. Washington said in

an email that she could not give a general answer to the question of whether students have stated that they want a daycare on campus, but that students have a choice in where they send their children.

Martin said that the program, on a campus level, “has a tremendous impact because we have a lot of students who have families, have children, and because this is a community college we have lots of students from various walks of life… they need the assistance of a daycare.”

Martin said that “at the Meramec campus we get on av-

EDITORS Katie Hayes Marie Schwarz Sean E. Thomas Dalila Kahvedzic Andrew Ameer DJ McGuire Erik Muschinske Missy Arneson Jordan Morris Ian Schrauth Shannon Philpott

Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor News Editor Art & Life Editor Opinions Editor Sports Editor Photo Editor Copy Editor Graphics Editor Online Editor Faculty Adviser

erage 42 students per semester.”

Dr. Washington said in an email that “we typically have 150 students in our CCAMPIS program per year.”

Martin said that the way to gain access to the program is to “come here [to campus]; they can download the application online, bring the application already filled out, bring their class schedule

“... we have lots of students from various walks of life ... they need assistance of a daycare.”

- Claire Martin

STAFF Stephen Buechter Caroline Frank Lexie Keller Bri Heaney Melissa Wilkinson Amanda Harris Ashley Biundo Noah Sliney

and also a student aid form, which is a form they have to get through their financial aid. And they submit those three documents and within two days or three days they will hear back from the coordinator of that grant, who will tell them how much money they have been approved for.”

Staff Writer Staff Writer Staff Writer Staff Writer Staff Writer Staff Photographer Staff Photographer Staff Designer

www.meramecmontage.com

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Editorial views expressed or content contained in this publication are not necessarily the views of St. Louis Community College, the board of trustees or the administration.

The Montage is a student publication produced seven times per semester at St. Louis Community College - Meramec, 11333 Big Bend Blvd., Kirkwood, Mo., 63122.

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Phone numbers and addresses will not be published. All letters are subject to editing for content and length. All letters submitted will be published in print and online.

March 9, 2017 4 | Art & Life Depresso without espresso?‘Mug’ the best coffee shops near campus 4

Stone Spiral Coffee and Curios 2500 Sutton Blvd, Maplewood

Foundation Grounds 7298 Manchester Road,Maplewood, MO

Photos by: Bri Heaney Stories by: Melissa Wilkinson When owner Neil Suthar purchased Foundation Grounds from its original owners nine months ago, he got right to work making it more suitable for college students.

“We started with only four or five outlets,” Suthar said. “We renovated the place to make it a little more user-friendly.

[We added] the counters next to the windows, added more outlets and changed the menu around a little.”

Suthar said he wants Foundation Grounds, in the heart of Maplewood, to be welcoming to students and community members alike. “[Maplewood has] good vibes from a culture standpoint,” Suthar said.

“We have a relaxed atmosphere so people can just hang out. The afternoon is

“The afternoon is our best time for students... they come and hang out, there’s space available, plenty of outlets and wifi.”

- Neil Suthar, owner our best time for students… they come and hang out, there’s space available, plenty of outlets and Wi-Fi.” Aside from the atmosphere, Foundation Grounds also offers a wide

selection of pastries and foods, many of which are vegan or organic.

“I like pretty much anything on the menu,” said Suthar. “That’s why we offer it.”

He also said that the beverages are a big draw.

“For a first time customer I would recommend our honey lavender latte,” Suthar said.

“If it’s more of a cold drink our cold brew coffee is one of the best, or our freshly squeezed organic lemonade. Our teas are loose-leaf, we get it sourced locally,” he said.

A latte, flavored with honey and cardamom, was beautifully decorated with milk foam. It was light and smoky, with just enough honey to take away the bitterness of coffee without making it overly sweet.

Suthar said Foundation Grounds is also hosting live music and extending hours on certain days.

“Thursday and Friday… we’re open until 9 o'clock… to bring in some of the local student population to come and hang out, and listen to some local bands,” Suthar said.

For students who prefer to study in silence, Suthar said the quietest hours are from 3 p.m. to closing time at 6 p.m.

Stone Spiral Coffee and Curios, located at the corner of Sutton Blvd. and Lyndover Pl. shares both its owners and name with the art gallery located across the street.

This might give a good idea of the environment customers will find there; a cozy atmosphere with a rag-tag assemblage of furniture, friendly staff and tons of unique art pieces.

Matt Miller, a frequent customer at Stone Spiral, visits the coffee shop so often that he had a sandwich named after him on the menu.

“This is my favorite place to work,” Miller said. “A, it’s very visually interesting. B, the coffee’s pretty good. C, the Wi-Fi’s fast.”

Looking around,

Known affectionately as ‘Kaldi’s’ by St. Louisans, Kaldi’s Coffeehouse is a well-known chain with many locations across St. Louis, as well as several in other Missouri cities and the Atlanta area.

Named for the goatherder who supposedly discovered the coffee plant, Kaldi’s is known for friendly staff, unique seasonal menu and great study environment.

Bonnie Armbreuster, a sophomore at Meramec, likes to go to Kaldi’s to do homework.

“It’s usually pretty chill,” Armbreuster said.

“I do my homework or I do some writing. Sometimes it can get pretty busy during the lunch or breakfast rushes.”

Armbreuster, who was enjoying her usual vanilla latte, said she likes coming to Kaldi’s because of the environment.

“I come during the off hours,” Ambreuster said. “The people are friendly, I feel welcome.

Kind of like a safe place.”

Kaldi’s food offerings range from pastries to sandwiches and quiche. Their extensive drink menu is updat-

it’s clear that Stone Spiral encourages productivity.

Aside from many small tables upon which to spread out schoolwork, the entire back wall is covered in books one may peruse at their leisure.

“Everybody that’s here is an artist in some way,” Miller said. “Like, Jason here is a musician and a puppeteer. Grace paints. Doug, the owner, does paintings and all the metal[work] is his. This is a highly creative environment.”

The quietest hours are during the mid-afternoon, Miller said, but there are also many special events should one desire a study break.

“There’s live music almost every night. They have an open mic night that’s ridiculously well attended,” Miller said. There’s a gaming night. Sometimes

people will hold events [in the art gallery next door]; there’s a lot going on.”

Aside from the atmosphere, Stone Spiral offers many unique beverages and foods, including Italian sodas and lavender or earl gray flavored pastries.

My chai latte, which the barista boasted as the best in town, was sweet and creamy with a strong but not overbearing chai flavor.

“The hummus is really good,” Miller said. “The soup always changes...the baked goods are always really extraordinary.”

Whether for work or for play, Miller thinks Stone Spiral Coffee offers a great experience in a comfortable environment.

“I don’t want [it] to sound too good,” he said, “because then everyone will come here.”

Kaldi’s Coffeehouse 120 S. Kirkwood Road, Kirkwood, MO Bonnie Armbreuster, sophomore at Meramec, works on homework at Kaldi’s. ed often. Offerings include both classic coffee beverages as well as creative drinks such as their Golden Milk Tea. With a house made cardamom and cinnamon syrup, the Turkish Latte is spicy and creamy, with plenty of house espresso to ward off the sleepiness of mid-afternoon.

“The coffee is like liquid gold,” Ambreuser said.

Located in the middle of downtown Kirkwood, Kaldi’s is surrounded by activity. The inside hosts many tables and chairs,

most of them with outlets, and there is an extensive outside seating area during spells of warm weather.

“It’s really close [to Meramec],” Armbreuster said. “It’s my go-to study spot.”

Armbreuster recommends Kaldi’s to other Meramec students. With a knowledgeable staff and an environment suited to student life, Kaldi’s in Kirkwood could be perfect for you, whether you go to enjoy tea, pastries, a lunch snack, or, like Armbreuster, “just come… for the coffee.”

Art & Life | 5

March 4 9, 2017

Turn criticism into beauty

English Professor Maxine Beach says ‘resilience’ is a writer’s best bet

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Missy Arneson Copy Editor

“It was very dark,” Meramec Professor E. Maxine Beach said about her book, “Neurotica.” She said the book is a short story cycle, which is a novel comprised of several short stories, and is a heavy tale about women’s sexuality interspersed with humor.

Aside from being a published author and poet, Beach has been teaching at St. Louis Community College—Meramec for eight and a half years because of her desire to give back.

“I was a trouble student,” Beach said with a smile. She said several professors really worked with her and inspired her, so much so that she wanted to help future students and encourage them the way she had been encouraged.

Before working at Meramec, Beach held the position of Chair of Creative Writing at Austin Community College and also advised a student creative writing club called the Writer’s Guild.

“I tried to start something similar here when I first started teaching here,” Beach said. “But it never took off… you really need that one student with passion [to lead the group].”

Beach also used to advise the “Currents” student literary magazine, but she had to give up the position when she took on the role of chair of the English department.

“If I had my way, I would just [advise “Currents”] and teach creative writing,” Beach said, laughing.

Beach said that while she makes sure to jot down ideas and bits of writing whenever something comes to her, her favorite place to write is her home office, complete with a “go away” sign on the door.

Humans of Meramec

“My family knows that when I’m in my office and the door is shut, I expect them to go away,” Beach said.

Although Beach published a book and several poems, she said the process of publishing is extremely difficult. She said she enjoyed writing and promoting her book, but not so much the in-between part. Between finding an interested publisher, figuring out a publishing contract and working with designers to create the cover and illustrations, Beach said the legwork was her least favorite part of the publishing process.

After promoting her book, Beach said she felt a little sad. Promoting was fun, but then the fun ended.

“It was a let-down,” Beach said. “Once it’s over, it’s [dead]… like a dancer feels after she walks off the stage.”

Beach said her best advice to young writers was threefold: students need to grow a thick skin, review and edit with other writers and read widely.

“Any artist is going to experience rejection,” Beach said. “The actress who auditions for a hundred plays may only be cast in one.

She has to suffer 99 rejections, but she got one.”

Several students said they enjoy Beach’s classes, as well as her manner of teaching. Student Leo Hedrick said he really enjoyed Beach’s open approach in her creative writing class, which he felt left writers room for creativity.

“I looked her up on that ‘rate your teachers’ site [ratemyprofessors.com],” Hedrick said. “She had really good reviews.”

Hedrick said the best part of the class was the workshop — peer reviewing with classmates — and

Photo by: Marie Schwarz Professor Maxine Beach discusses writing strategies during her Monday creative writing class after students read their own written poems. that he would definitely recommend the class to other students.

He was echoed by Debbie Corson, who said she has known Beach since 2011 and known her well for three years, but that this is the first class she’s taken with Beach.

“It’s been fabulous,” Corson said. “She’s got a great way of inspiring students and letting them write without that critic on their back… She also gives them freedom to be themselves.”

Corson said she really got to know Beach on a service learning trip to New Orleans. Corson said she was leading the trip, and Beach fell ill early on, though she was soon joined by Corson. She said the two of them spent all day talking, which really deepened their friendship.

Featured Club : Environmental Club

Corson’s favorite aspect of Beach’s personality is that she’s not afraid to speak her mind.

“She’s authentic,” Corson said. “She knows who she is.”

Beach said the message she wanted to give to the world with her writing was one of perseverance.

She said her stories were about people who had been knocked down and persisted.

“If there’s anything that I want to tell people, especially women, and especially young women, is that no matter what comes at you — if you have built up some resilience… take that ugly dirt and mud that’s been slung at you, just pick it up and mold it… into some nice pottery… you’re gonna be probably a better person in the long run,” Beach said.

Have a minute between classes?

Visit us at www.

MeramecMontage. com

Pat Ryan, Visual Arts Major Check out www. meramecmontage. com to watch a series of student interviews pertaining to our most recent project, ‘You’re Beautiful.’

“I have made so many compassionate friends through this club, who care about the planet and animals,” leader of the Environmental Club Mary Shaw said. “It’s very refreshing to know that there are other students trying to make a difference in this world.”

Some activities the Environmental Club participates in raising awareness on important issues concerning the environment, screening documentaries such as Cowspiracy & Plant Pure Nation, having guest speakers, volunteering and participating in protests. They also coordinate Earth Day on campus and provide a support group for people who are interested in a plant based/cruelty free diet. Trips

are being planned that involve visiting an animal sanctuary, going to a cave and stargazing.

Around campus, the Environmental Club campaigns for better recycling and more sustainable foods in the cafeteria along with getting rid of Styrofoam. The club is also trying to start a garden on campus for students.

Currently, the club is doing a phone drive for charity where all the profits will be donated to the Safe Haven women’s shelter. The club has previously discussed eco-friendly living, green energy and sustainable food.

The next club meeting will be March 22 at 3 p.m. in BA 114.

Interested in writing, designing, or podcasts? Join us

evry Tuesday at 5

p.m. in SC 220A.

? g n i r r e f s n a r Interestedsoiunri–STt. Louis

4

is

University of M

Transfer

STLCC Career Fairs & Internship Expo St. Louis Community College will host three career fairs and a student internship expo to help attendees connect with potential employers.

Companies looking to fill full- and part-time positions, as well as offer internship opportunities, will be on campus during the events. Participants will have the opportunity to speak with employers and apply for current openings.

Office hours for STLCC Meramec students: Mondays & Thursdays Call 314-984-7575 for an appointment 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Advising Center – Clark Hall

To learn more about our Off-Campus Degree Completion Program in Business at the South County Education Center, contact Sue Bateman at 636-481-3243 or batemans@umsl.edu.

CHOOSE

Christy Hummel Transfer Specialist askchristy@umsl.edu 314-516-6943 “I can help with all of your questions about transferring, scholarships and what it’s like to be a Triton!”

All events are free. Career fairs are open to the St. Louis community. Internship expo open to all STLCC students.

For more information on the career fairs and accommodation needs, call 314-984-7611 or email ces@stlcc.edu For more information on the internship expo and accommodation needs, call 636-422-2200 or email dsweet@stlcc.edu

Serious education. Serious value.SM

Forest Park Career Fair Tuesday, February 28 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Cafeteria 5600 Oakland Ave. St. Louis, MO 63110

Meramec Career Fair Thursday, March 9 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Meramec Gymnasium 11333 Big Bend Road St. Louis, MO 63122

STLCC Student Internship Expo Tuesday, March 28 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Student Center 2645 Generations Drive Wildwood, MO 63040

Florissant Valley Career Fair Wednesday, March 29 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Student Center 3400 Pershall Road St. Louis, MO 63135

Academic Advising ● St. Louis Community College ● 11333 Big Bend Road ● St. Louis, MO 63122

THE FOLLOWING SCHOOLS WILL BE PARTICIPATING IN THE SPRING 2017 COLLEGE TRANSFER FAIR:

Central Missouri Methodist Chamberlain College of Nursing Columbia University Culver Stockton College Fontbonne University Goldfarb School of Nursing Hannibal-Lagrange University Harris-Stowe State University

Indiana State University Lindenwood University MacMurray College Maryville University Millikin University McKendree University Missouri Baptist University Missouri State University

Missouri U—Science & Tech Missouri Western State Univ.

Ranken Technical College St. Louis College of Pharmacy Saint Louis University Southeast MO State U Southern ILL-Carbondale Southern ILL-Edwardsville

Truman State University Univ. of Central Missouri Univ. of ILL-Springfield Univ. of MO-Columbia Univ. of MO-Kansas City Univ. of MO-St. Louis Washington University Webster University William Woods University

St. Louis Community College is committed to non-discrimination and equal opportunities in its admissions, educational programs, activities and employment regardless of race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, genetic information or status as a disabled or Vietnam-era veteran and shall take action necessary to ensure non-discrimination. Sexual harassment, including sexual violence, is also prohibited. For information or concerns relating to discrimination or sexual harassment, call 314-539-5374.

Accommodations statement: St. Louis Community College is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. If you have accommodation needs, please contact Tracy Lampkins at 314-984-7588 at least two working days prior to the event. Documentation of disability may be required.

Opinions | 7

4 9, 2017 March

Athletes are entitled to their own opinion

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Sean E. Thomas News Editor

Dexter Fowler, an American citizen who is married to Darya Aliya Baghbani, an American immigrant born in Iran, has spoken out against President Trump’s travel ban. This ban restricted travel to and from seven predominantly Muslim countries, one of which is Iran.

Fowler was asked by a reporter at ESPN what his thoughts were on Trump’s travel ban. His response was respectful, brought attention to his concerns for his family and their well-being and has made him the target of criticism from his fellow American citizens.“It’s huge.

Especially any time you’re not able to see family, it’s unfortunate,” Fowler said. That is all.

Fowler was referencing the fact that due to Trump’s travel ban he and his wife wouldn’t be able to take their daughter, Naya, to visit his wife’s family still living in Iran. He has also pointed out that his wife’s sister was forced to postpone her return trip from Qatar to the U.S. for fear of being detained.

The criticisms of Fowler, as posted on Twitter, go something like this: “Dexter you better close

your mouth. Go Mr. President,” “You should keep your mouth shut and just play baseball,” and “Yeah, my ticket [money] doesn’t pay for his politics. Ok, so it’s hard for his wife [actually sister-in-law] to enter the country. Not our problem, it’s unfortunate, but if he runs his mouth better than he plays baseball, life won’t be so great for him.”

Oh, did I forget to mention Dexter Fowler is a baseball player who recently signed an $82.5 million-dollar contract with the St. Louis Cardinals, after helping the Chicago Cubs win their first World Series win in over 100 years in 2016? That’s because, as far as I’m concerned, he is a person and citizen of this country before, during, and after he is a ball player.

That his wife, child, and loved ones should be afforded the same rights and freedoms that we all are.

Most of the backlash from fans concerning Fowler’s comments have been centered around the idea that, because he is a professional athlete, he should keep his political opinions to himself.

In a country where fewer and fewer of us seem to be paying attention to the news, or at least thinking critically about it, I argue that without the involvement of athletes and entertainers in politics, many of us would miss how much trouble our country is actually in.

Like Tommie Smith and John Carlos who took to the podium to receive their Olympic medals in 1968, black gloved fists raised defiantly overhead. Muhammed Ali,

Graphic by: Noah Sliney who gave up his title as champion and was banned from boxing, many say during his prime, after refusing to fight in the Vietnam War. More recently, Colin Kaepernick who refused to stand during the singing of the national anthem to bring extra attention to the disproportionate killing, in the United States, of black men by police.

Fowler is the next in a long line of amazing human beings, some athletes, who by doing or saying what they thought was right became champions for social justice.

“I gave nothing away,” Fowler told ESPN on Monday, Feb. 20. “I’m always going to care for my family, and if a question is asked out

of concern, I’m going to answer the question truthfully. It’s not to hurt anybody. It’s my perspective.

It’s unfortunate that people think of things that way, but I believe they’re sensitive. I’m not the sensitive one.”

Although there may be some fans of baseball out there who take issue with Fowler’s comments, I’m taking this opportunity to speak for all fans of humanity out there in saying this; thank you Dexter Fowler for saying what you feel, standing by those statements, and being a champion for the marginalized and mistreated in a game where rules once held sacred, continue to be rewritten.

There is nothing wrong with changing your mind What I Learned at the Culinary Institute of America

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Melissa Wilkinson Staff Writer

I’ll be blunt; you don’t have to go to culinary school to be a chef.

Many self-taught chefs will even stick up their nose at someone like me, a product of private education.

I was aware of the alternate path as I finished up my senior year of high school: you start with something called a stage, a sadistic period of unpaid internship unique to the culinary industry. The restaurant needs 40 pounds of potatoes peeled? All you. There’s corn that needs shucking? You’re up, kid. I not-so-fondly remember an entire evening removing the thin skin of sunchokes with a spoon.

That’s how it goes. You do your time and hope you get hired.

When you do, it might not be the first restaurant you staged for.

But you take the job. You learn the trade. And, eventually, you rise up through the ranks. That’s how you become a chef without any fancy degrees. It’s also not what I did.

My father was not so much against cheffing as he was the lack of liberal education. Culinary school was supposed to be a happy medium, but he refused that too, afraid of the limited career choices a culinary degree offers.

A compromise was found in the Cornell University School of Hotel Administration, which offered a dual-degree program with the Culinary Institute of America.

I was accepted early decision in 2011 and prepared for what I was

certain would be my ticket to chefdom.

As I am currently a graphic design student here at Meramec, one might surmise that this is not what happened.

Starting my seven months at the CIA, it became obvious that chefs — loud, rude, and overwhelmingly male — were not my people.

I should mention that CIA is essentially boot camp. Classes operate in three-week blocks, eight

Graphic by: Ian Schrauth

hours a day, five days a week, with morning classes often beginning before 6 a.m. Each missed class lowers your grade by a letter; three missed days and you repeat the class.

Your meals come from the classrooms, providing the pressure of knowing that if you screw it up, you’re ruining lunch for everyone.

If you don’t like what’s served, you’re out of luck.

Something to note about many chefs — they like to show off.

Often I was pushed aside, delegated a less complex task because a colleague had more experience and could do something faster.

It took an edge off my pride to admit I no longer wanted to be a chef. That’s just what culinary school did to me. I can’t say I regret it, as often discovering what you don’t want to do is just as valuable as the alternative. But I can’t say I recommend it, either.

It’s not for everyone.

If you’re reasonably aggressive and aren’t afraid to butt heads with some serious egos, you’ll do just fine in the culinary industry.

But if, like me, you avoid conflict with a passion and prefer an environment where you can keep to yourself, consider asking yourself why you want to become a chef.

Take it from someone getting her third degree—there’s nothing wrong with changing your mind.

Sports | 8

March 9, 2017

Defense leads Archers to playoff victory m

DJ McGuire Sports Editor

The St. Louis Community College Archers defeated the North Central Missouri College Pirates 64-50 in the NJCAA Division II Region 16 Semi Final. The game was held on Thursday, March 2 at Lincoln University in Jefferson City.

The game started out slowly as both teams shot very coldly and showed off some playoff jitters, but Archers Head Coach Terry Collins was very proud of his team’s defense in the game.

“We came out and played really good defense; that was our best defense of the year,” Collins said.

Archers guard, freshman Todd Simms, No. 13, who scored 14 points, said the nerves definitely affected the team.

“We got a lot of good looks.

It was just nerves and the playoff jitters; everyone’s just a little bit worried about making a big play or missing a wrong shot,” Simms said.

The defense held strong for the Archers, but the offense struggled, as the Archers only led by three at the break 22-19.

The early stages of the second half remained the same as the first, until a key string of plays that changed the game completely.

At about the halfway point of the second half the Archers made several stops resulting in two straight offensive fouls for the Pi-

Photo by: DJ McGuire

the big threes and ended victorious, the final score being 64-50.

The team is very proud of their accomplishments this season, according to Collins. “Our record went up from 12 to 19 [at the time], we had a winning record on the road which is the sign of a good team,” Collins said.

Coach Collins believes this season was a great learning experience for his players. “Our young men are very fortunate to be surrounded by a lot of people that care,” Collins said.

The Archers then played Metropolitan Community College— Penn Valley Scouts for the Region 16 Final. The game was also held at Lincoln University on Saturday, March 4. The Archers emerged as Region 16 champions as they defeated the Scouts 74-63. The Archers will play at Arkansas State Mid South for the NJCAA District XIII Championship Game.

Raushaun Amos shoots a three pointer in a victory over North Central Missouri College on March 2 in Jefferson City. rates. The Archers took advantage of these turnovers, especially on one three pointer from Sophomore guard, No. 2, Sean Rigmaiden, who scored 10 points, grabbed eight boards and passed for four assists.

This three put the Archers up by 10, making the score 38-28.

Near the end of the game the Archers took full control as Simms hit three three pointers to seal the victory. “Taking the charge ignit-

Archers vs North Central Missouri College Baseball Podcast on Soundcloud

ed us and when Todd hit a couple threes [it] got us going even more,” Collins said.

Simms knew how important this stretch was for his team as well.

“I just knew that if we wanted a championship something had to be done, I had to believe in my shots and I knocked them down,” Simms said.

The Archers never let up after

Lady Archers advance in playoffs

Women’s basketball team defeats Cottey College in region 16 semifinals

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DJ McGuire Sports Editor

On Thursday March 2, 2017, the St. Louis Community College Lady Archers defeated the Cottey College Comets 80-56. This game was the National Junior College Athletic Association Division II Region 16 Semifinal game.

Photo by: DJ McGuire Shamara Glover handles the ball in the Archers playoff victory over Cottey College.

The game started out rather slowly for both teams as first playoff game jitters rattled both teams.

Head coach Shelly Ethridge said the team came out “a little tight” and admitted the team was “a little nervous going into the game.”

Sophomore guard No. 12, Shamiah Oliver, who scored 19 points, said “I think we had to shake it off real quick, but I think everybody’s just nervous the first three minutes or so.”

During the entirety of the first half the game was very close with both teams holding the lead several times and both teams never having a lead more than five points. The first half ended with the Archers leading 28-25. One memorable moment was the Archers and Comets hitting three-pointers on three straight possessions with each three changing the lead.

The second half began and again the game was close, until an Oliver three, which put the Archers up 37-34 with 6:10 left to go in the third quarter. From then on the Archers held the lead for the rest of the game.

The game itself was very physical at points as well.

“I guess they just don’t like us, we come out hard and they come out hard, but we come out even harder than them” Chrishana Wilson said, no. 21 freshman forward who scored 10 points and grabbed 14 rebounds.

The Archers maintained their lead for the rest of the game, the

lead being 10 or more points for a majority of the second half. The final score was 80-56 in favor of the Archers.

This successful second half for the Archers was fueled by good offense and great three point shooting. “That’s what we do. We shoot the three ball very well, so once we got that rolling it was very hard to stop us,” Oliver said.

The Archers second half success was also due to their selflessness as the scoring was spread out very evenly throughout the majority of the game. “We’re very good at playing team basketball and there is no selfish play on this team whatsoever,” Ethridge said.

As the playoffs continue Ethridge admits she is very proud of her team thus far, but knows that her team can still go further this postseason. “Anything in the future that may happen is certainly just another feather in their hat,” Ethridge said.

Oliver admitted she is also very proud of her team’s progress this season. “From the beginning to now, it is just a Cinderella story; we started out kinda slow trying to gel together and now [that] we’re here moving as one, it is amazing” Oliver said.

This victory advanced the Archers to the Regional Championship game against North Central Missouri College. The game took place on Saturday March 4, and the Archers were victorious 79-70.

This marks the second straight Re-

gion 16 championship for the Archers. They will play in the District P Championship game on Saturday March 10, at the Forest Park campus at 2 p.m.

Athlete Spotlight

“

Photo by: Marie Schwarz

I’m a big talker. Everyone knows I’m a big talker. I just love to be loud, get the team involved and try to get into the other team’s head.

– Timothy O’Leary, Infielder

”

Timothy O’Leary runs the bases in a win over North Central Missouri College.