Montage The
St. Louis Community College–Meramec
SEPT. 2, 2010 Vol. 46 Issue 1
3
Carnahan Visits
Representative speaks about financial assistance programs
6
News Media
Getting to know the media from a different perspective
12
NO SMOKING THANK YOU! Meramec once again smoker-friendly Joe Douglas
- Editor-in-Chief -
During the first week of school, smoking signs on various buildings were removed to end a misconception that smoking on campus wasn’t allowed. As of Aug. 23, smoking on campus is completely allowed. When the nosmoking policy was originally passed in 2009, campus police were told to enforce the rule. With the realization that it was never an official policy in the first place, they removed the “no smoking” signs from a number of buildings and enforcement was put to a stand-still. “You can’t have a fine where there is no policy,” said Interim President Zerrie Campbell for STLCC-Meramec. “So what we’re doing is just resurrecting the process to get the policy approved throughout the college.” Last year, the smoking policy prevented students from smoking on the Meramec campus. If someone wanted to smoke, they were required to smoke on the parking lots. The original smoking ban was met with discontent and many students continued to smoke on campus grounds. In response to the policy being applied, campus police were instructed to enforce it. Banta said that students caught smoking were warned and their information was collected. Repeat offenders who didn’t comply were reported to the vice president of student affairs, and the offender would be notified to meet with the vice president.
Those who continued to ignore the policy would have their grades held and the student wouldn’t be able to transfer their course credits to another school. “Whatever the college wants to enforce we’ll enforce. We won’t enforce anything that’s not policy,” said Paul Banta, chief of police at Meramec. Prior to February 2009 when the original decision to ban smoking on campus grounds was made, students often crowded under the walkway between Communications North and Communications South to socialize and smoke. Anyone leaving or entering either building would have to walk through clouds of smoke, which motivated the Wellness Committee to take action. The Wellness Committee sponsored Fresh Air Days in fall 2008 where students would be required to smoke under white tents located throughout campus. In addition, surveys were sent from the Wellness Committee to students, faculty and staff via e-mail asking for opinions on a smoke-free campus. According to the results, 54 percent voted for a completely smoke-free campus. Of the 46 percent that voted otherwise, approximately 73 percent voted that it should be restricted. In February 2009, the decision came down to the Student Government Association, the Meramec Academic Governance Council, and the Meramec Institutional Affairs Council came to an agreement. They decided to limit smoking to parking lots only. It was then approved by the Campus Leadership Team (CLT),
which included then-Vice President of Student Affairs Stephen Petersen, Ed.D., and then-President Paul Pai, Ed.D. One and a half years later, the CLT examined the smoking policy and they discovered a hole in the original process that no one noticed until now. “We became aware of it when I was at an LT meeting and we were reviewing different proposals for other policies and then the conversation came up and they said ‘Can’t enforce or make a fine for what?’ There is no policy,’” Campbell said. Because Meramec isn’t individually accredited, the only way it can adopt a policy is by having it approved and adopted by the other three campuses. Wildwood, the only exception to the rule, was built as a green campus and with a no-smoking policy already in place. “Remember this is a college and we have many students who are taking classes at various campuses. We can’t enforce something on one campus that doesn’t exist on another campus,” Campbell said. At this time, there is no expected deadline to complete the approval process. Meramec student Kerry Lewis, who is an ex-smoker, said he respects smoking on campus, but believes designated smoking areas would be good. “We’re trying to move as quickly as possible so that we can respond to students’ issues,” Campbell said. “What we want to do is to identify designated areas. We can’t do that just yet.”
First Annual ‘LouFest’ First ever St. Louisbased festival caters to every St. Louisian
14
New season, same goals Magic Baseball looks to continue winning tradition
Montage Reader Poll Where do you buy your textbooks?
C A B
A. Meramec Bookstore B. Online C. I just look over my classmate’s shoulder in class
Sept. 16 Poll Question
How does excess cigarette smoke affect you? To vote, visit: www.meramecmontage.com
2NEWS
September 2, 2010
Time after time: 100-year pattern of a 9-year phase Shane Rice
- Assistant News Editor -
At 5:06:07 on Aug. 9, 2010 the numbers from time to date read 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10. Though this event only happened twice that day, (once in the a.m. and again in the p.m.), it was still a rare sight. Looking further into this oddity, a pattern was discovered; a sequence within time itself. By removing the first two numbers of the year and placing the time before the date, as standard U.S. reads it, a 100-year pattern starts. This pattern can only start on April 5 during a year that ends in 06. It runs for nine years and ends on Dec. 13 during a year that ends in 14. The unique pattern happens twice a year for nine years where the numbers, from time to date, will run in a sequence. “Because of the time shifts (Day Light SavingsTime), the lunar cycle, and leap year a unique pattern occurs,” Carl
Hour 1
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14 GRAPH BY: SHANE RICE
Graph showing the start and end of the nine year phase of the 100 year pattern. This can only start on April 5 during a year that ends in 06.
“Time must have 11 seconds added to it every four years to balance out.” - Carl Campbell Campbell, Ph.D., geology professor at STLCC-Meramec said. Based on the ideals and faults of the Julian calendar, the Gregorian
calendar was devised as an arithmetical calendar. The mean year, which had 365.2425 days (365 days, 5 hour, 49 minutes, 12 seconds) in the Julian
calendar was slightly too long, causing the vernal equinox to slowly drift backwards in the calendar year according to http:// history.com
Campbell said, “Time must have 11 seconds added to it every four years to balance out.” The Gregorian year is divided into 12 months. Despite the name, these are not synchronized with the phases of the moon; the terminology derives from the Roman calendar that preceded the Julian calendar. The 12 months are of irregular lengths.
Students with disAbilities
have Access at STLCC.
St. Louis Community College makes every reasonable effort to accommodate individuals with disabilities. If you have accommodation needs, please contact the Access office at the campus where you are registered. While accommodations may be requested at any time, some accommodations may require many weeks to arrange. Florissant Valley Access Office 3400 Pershall Road St. Louis, MO 63135-1499 E-mail: fvaccess@stlcc.edu Phone: 314-513-4551 Fax: 314-513-4876 Relay Missouri: 711
Forest Park Access Office
Meramec Access Office
5600 Oakland Ave. St. Louis, MO 63110-1393 E-mail: fpaccess@stlcc.edu Phone: 314-644-9039 Fax: 314-951-9439 Relay Missouri: 711
11333 Big Bend Road Kirkwood, MO 63122-5799 E-mail: mcaccess@stlcc.edu Phone: 314-984-7673 Fax: 314-984-7123 Relay Missouri: 711
Wildwood Student Enrollment and Disability Support Services 2645 Generations Drive Wildwood, MO 63040-1168 E-mail: wwaccess@stlcc.edu Phone: 636-422-2000 Fax: 636-422-2050 Relay Missouri: 711
St. Louis Community College expands minds and changes lives every day. We create accessible, dynamic learning environments focused on the needs of our diverse communities. Florissant Valley
Forest Park
Meramec
www.stlcc.edu
Wildwood
NEWS
September 2, 2010
What’s happening at STLCC NEWS BRIEFS Library Earth Day Event STLCC-Meramec is hosting an Earth day event at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 14, 2010 in the Library confluence room. Meramec signed the American College and University Presidents Climate Commitment in 2009. The event will begin with a general meeting with program updates. Following a small break, attendees will break up into three Green Teams and begin planning for the 2010-2011 academic year. The Green teams have currently met education, communication and community involvment. For additional information, contact co-chairs Emily Neil or Bonnie Sanguinet of the Meramec Sustainablilty Committee.
The “Imagine Healthy” Food Drive The theme of the 2010 fall food drive, sponsored by Service Learning, is “Imagine” by the Beatles. The food drive will run from Aug. 23 through Oct. 29. Box collections will be located inside many of the office complexes throughout the Meramec campus and outside the Service Learning Office, BA 219J. Donations will benefit local food pantries, including Kirk Care and Circle of Concern. For more information, contact the Service Learning Office at (314) 984-7893.
New Work: Anne Lindberg and Lizzy Martinez The Meramec Contemporary Art Gallery of St. Louis Community College presents the New Work of Anne Lindberg and Lizzy Martenez. Between 5:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Sept. 10, 2010, will be an open house. This exhibt will be going until Oct. 1, 2010. Free admission will allow art enthusiasts to see the unusual still lives and figurative works. The Meramec Contemporary Art Gallery is located at 11333 Big Bend Road in Kirkwood, Mo. Gallery hours are Monday through Thursday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., closed on Sundays. For more information call (314) 984-7632 or visit http://stlcc.edu and select the Calendar link for September.
3
Rep. Russ Carnahan visits STLCC-Meramec
Educational assistance programs for students discussed, financial aid is focus Joe Douglas
- Editor-In-Chief -
On Wednesday, Aug. 11, Missouri Representative Russ Carnahan garnered the attention of STLCC-Meramec students, faculty and staff to announce a number of new educational assistance programs for students. “As we have worked through so many issues through the last year, the deepest and longest recession we’ve had in generations, one of the ways we can emerge from this recession stronger than before is investments in higher education,” Carnahan said. Carnahan said that he needed student loans to attend and graduate from college. “This is personal to me but also, you know, I’m living proof.” Carnahan spoke about four initiatives that Congress is working to incorporate into college students’ academic lives in order to make college education more affordable. The first: reduced interest rates for federal student loans. “Last year, the interest rate dropped down to 5.6 percent and it is on course to continue dropping until it gets down to 3.4 percent in 2011,” Carnahan said. A loan forgiveness program is also available for students graduating with degrees in public service. Students who graduated to become nurses, fire fighters, police officers, social workers and other non-profit positions and remain working in these fields for at least 10 years will have their student loans wiped clean.
“Knowing my $2,000 in loans will be forgiven, I’m grateful now and even in 10 years from now I’ll be more grateful,” said Aaron Jennings, who graduated from Washington University’s Brown School of Social Work in May 2009. Jennings is now manager of Urban Education Initiatives at the Brown School. In addition, the maximum Pell Grant award has been raised to $5,550 for the 2010-2011 academic year. The 2009-2010 academic year was also the first time Pell Grant was available year-round, giving students access to Pell in the summer. Carnahan said the maximum award will continue to increase and reach almost $6,000 by 2017. “There are 139,000 Missouri Pell Grant scholars that are going to get more help affording their tuition thanks to annual increases in the maximum Pell Grant,” Carnahan said. Kate Cowen, a Webster University student entering her junior year, said she received $1,600 last year from Pell, and $3,100 this year. “I would’ve had to take on a full-time job or the possibility of switching schools. I’ll be able to graduate Webster University with a good grade point average because I was able to concentrate on my studies instead of working.” The TEACH (Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education) Grant is also available for students seeking to teach after college. To receive assistance, students must teach for at least four years within eight years after graduation, be a “highly qualified teacher,” work
PHOTO BY: JOE DOUGLAS
Kate Cowen, a Webster University student, discusses how the pell grant helped her continue her education. Carnahan’s visit focused on the need for financial aid for college students. at a school servicing lowincome students, and teach a high-need field, according to TEACH Grant’s website at http://teach-ats.ed.gov. “The TEACH Grant was really helpful for me because it provided me with at least half of my tuition paid for each semester. I graduated with high honors and was able to serve in the community where I’m needed,” said Camille Simmons, who graduated in December 2009 from University of MissouriSt. Louis. Lastly, the new Chapter 33 GI bill is designed for those who have fought in the post9/11 war. The bill provides veterans who have held 1.5 to 36 months of duty with a number of benefits based on the length of duty. “I graduated high school at limited means, couldn’t afford college,” said James Brown, a Meramec student who has been in the army for
CUSUMANO’S
National Depression Screening Day Thursday, October 7, 2010 Business Administration Building--Room 105 10am-2pm 5pm-7pm
This event is: Open to the public Confidential Free For more information, call Jason Duchinsky at:
(314) 984-7565
The Counseling Department at STLCC-Meramec will offer mental health screenings for a range of mood and anxiety disorders. We are here to help you.
10 years, working through the Missouri Army National Guard. The GI bill can cover up to 100 percent of tuition and fees, $1,000 per year in books and supplies, and provide other benefits. “[Veterans] don’t have to worry about how they’re going to pay for, you know, the tuition expenses and books and everything else,” Brown said. Brown said he has fought in places like Samarra and Mosul, Iraq. Upon honorable discharge this year, Brown said he will be attending Meramec this fall semester and will ultimately be pursuing his Bachelors of Science in Nursing. “A college education, we all know, is a key to a better life for so many families in Missouri and across the country. Now there is more help than ever before to realize that dream,” Carnahan said.
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4 NEWS
September 2, 2010
Campus Life 101: ‘A great opportunity’ Luelana Bustamante - Staff Writer -
On the sunny afternoon of Aug. 19, 2010, approximately 400 new students attended Campus Life 101 New Student Orientation Fall 2010 program at STLCC-Meramec. The students were able to seek out information about Meramec’s clubs and join if they were interested. The event offered fun activities, entertainment, prizes, 41 tables of clubs, two presentations by speaker Dave Coleman and a tour of the campus. New Meramec student Caron Mann said, “Besides the opportunity to learn about
all the clubs, I thought the tour was really helpful because they gave me a lot of information and advice about the campus.” This annual event is organized by the Campus Life Office in conjunction with Student Governance Council and Student Activities Council. According to Steve Brady, manager of the Campus Life Office, the event is an important program for the campus because it helps set the tone for the year. “We want students to feel welcome, that this is their campus and the campus has a lot of options for students to get involved in campus life,”
PHOTOS BY:LIZ RULE
The Hacky Sack, Hula-Hoop and Poi Club display memorabilia from club events during new student orientation.
said Brady. Some of the activities that were organized to entertain the new students were a scavenger hunt to help new students find their way around campus. There was also live music by artist Travelin’ Max, who sang country music and distributed hats and luau floral necklaces for everyone.There was also distribution of food, drinks and items such as backpacks and PHOTO BY: LIZ RULE 2010 planners for the new New students gather Aug. 19 in the quad to get familiar with campus students. life during Campus Life 101 New Student Orientation. However, the Campus Life 101 Program was ship with at least one other ter bottles. The Outdoors Club not only about entertainment. person on campus they are set up a camping tent on the The event offered two presen- more likely to continue their grass, and the Theatre Club tations by Coleman. education and do well in their displayed costumes that are The first presentation classes,” said Brady. used in their plays. was called “20 Key Points EvAt Campus Life 101, most Theatre Club member Kaery Freshman Should Know.” of the clubs set tables at the tie Robinson said, “We decidThe second was “Making Re- Student Center Quad and the ed to stay outside because all lationships Matter.” Both of lobby. Club members volun- the orientation happens outthem took place in the the- teered to participate and ex- side and that is where all the ater. According to Brady, at- plain what they do as a club. students are most of the time.” tending Campus Life 101 is Looking for new memThe Campus Life 101 a great opportunity for stu- bers, clubs did different things Program ended with Student dents to make new friends to attract the students’ atten- Governance Council officers and establish connections tion. The Bacchus Cheers Club giving out prizes after Colewith other students outside passed out cookies and drink man finished his second prethe classroom. recipes. Campus Crusade for sentation. Prizes included an “Studies have shown that Christ gave away silly putty, IPod, Rams and Cardinal tickif students establish a relation- Cold Stone ice cream and wa- ets and a digital recorder.
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NEWS
September 2, 2010
5
Northern lights move south as August heats up
BY: JACOB H IGHT
Kelly Davis - Copy Editor -
On the morning of Aug. 4, 2010, a solar tsunami touched the Earth. It created a geometric storm and displayed a spectacular wave of lights that stretched across the Earth’s southern regions. A solar tsunami, also known as a coronal mass ejection, is a large wave of hot, magnetized plasma that is ejected from the sun at a very rapid speed. Once the eruption occurs, it will head toward a target. This time around, it headed directly towards the Earth racing 93 million miles across space. Solar tsunamis occur on the active surface regions of the sun where there are sunspots.
Sunspots are dark spots on the sun that are formed by magnetic activity. This takes place during a solar maximum when there is the most solar activity in the sun’s solar cycle. “The sun follows an 11year sunspot cycle,” said Carl Campbell, Ph.D., geology professor at STLCC-Meramec. Solar tsunamis originate from solar activity on the sun, such as closed magnetic field lines that contain ionized plasma.
Specifically, when two oppositely directed magnetic field lines come together, they will break and push apart in an outward force and release plasma through space. They also occur when the magnetic field lines are weakened. Joe Schneider, professor in physical science at Meramec, said that the more sunspots that are on the sun, the greater amount of highly charged atoms are
released and the greater number of coronal mass ejections. The sun has been in an unusually deep period of low sunspot activity this last period of minimum likelihood for coronal mass ejections. “For about two years, there were no sunspots at all. This would be beginning the winter of 2007. This was very unusual,” Schneider said. Also, a solar tsunami can occur on the quiet surface regions of the sun. However, this happens during a solar minimum, which is the period of the least solar activity in the sun’s solar cycle. "We were at a minimum and we're supposed to traverse back
to a maximum and that's what we're doing," Schneider said. Once the solar tsunami reaches the Earth, it strikes the magnetic shield as a way of protection and creates a geometric storm that sometimes contains a glowing celestial ribbon called “aurora,” also recognized as the northern lights. The glowing celestial ribbons that compose the northern lights normally only occur in high northern latitudes. They are seen in Alaska and Canada most of the time. When visible, the lights display shades of green and red stretch across the night sky. “You can see the northern lights fairly often in the northern tier of states,” said Campbell. Therefore, the northern lights can be seen at latitudes as low as Missouri. Solar tsunamis and geometric storms cannot harm people on Earth, but it can cause problems for satellites. Campbell said, “They can overwhelm power grids. They can mess up sensitive instruments." With this, people on Earth can lose the internet, electricity and other power-outages. “Fixing these damages could take several years and it would cost billions of dollars,” Schneider said. Fortunately, the Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) spacecraft was launched in February 2010 to track the satellites in space. It has the ability to photograph active regions with extraordinary resolution. This allows people on Earth to see space activity and rotate satellites if needed. Schneider said, “By turning the satellites, there will be no damage.” Currently, there is no way of knowing when the next solar tsunami will take place. The sun’s solar activity is changeable, so anything could happen at any time. "We can look forward to more of this occurring. This isn't over," Schneider said.
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OPINIONS
September 2, 2010
Self-improvement Pursuit of Happiness Taking a positive step forward
Joe Douglas
- Editor-in-Chief -
Finding happiness is something for which we wish to give ourselves credit. It’s a reward for hard work and patience. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with it. Pat yourself on the back for having a good day because you were in some way involved. But remember it’s also important to give credit to the people around you – your friends, your family, your co-workers, your pet, your boss, anyone or anything that has a positive influence on your life. Think of the last time someone asked how your day was going. That person’s attention was on you and
what you had to say. It made you a little happier or a little less stressed. What about the last time someone told you “Good job” or “You did alright” with a smile on his or her face and a lighthearted tone? It felt pretty good, didn’t it? These people who positively influence us by making us happy are also elements in finding happiness. The key is to surround yourself with these positive people, these positive influences that treat you with kindness and respect. They ask you about your day, invite you to special events, and laugh with you. It’s the little things that remind us that we’re not alone and we’re cared about. D. is a student here at Meramec who faces daily physical handicaps. She often experiences mild panic attacks, or dizziness when climbing stairs, sometimes stopping midway to regain balance or even climbing back down the stairs to take the elevator. Even though she must face these handicaps regularly, she said she doesn’t
let it stop her from enjoying life and learning. She is a member of numerous clubs including the Outdoors Club and the International Club, and says being involved in these activities has made all the difference. “I think what made the most difference is finding people that liked me for who I am,” D. said. It’s a brand new school year. This is the best time to look for these positive influences and make them a part of your life. Join clubs, make friends, and get to know your professors. Being surrounded by these positive influences will make school more enjoyable and it will develop a system of support for those not-so-good days. Lastly, try to spend the next week or two being the one to ask about someone’s day and thanking the people around you for asking about yours. Be courteous and supportive of other people. Soon enough people will begin to see you as a positive influence. Observe it. Introduce it. Be happy.
Politics and Media Keeping Them Honest POLITICS The mosque controversy is not about tolerance
Patrick Olds
- Opinions Editor -
There is a new controversy centered in lower Manhattan where it was proposed that a new mosque be built at Ground Zero. This site is where a group of Islamic extremists hijacked two planes and flew them like missiles into the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, 2001. Americans opposed to the building of this mosque are being labeled as intolerant by the mainstream media. The United States needs to improve their tolerance of other religions. We have such a bad rap for not allowing others to worship in peace such as punishing someone for a cartoon depicting Muhammad. Oh wait, that would be one of many of the Islamic dominated countries in the Mideast that show little to no tolerance of other religions, not the United States. Can you fault the majority of New Yorkers and Americans in general for treating this as a
sensitive topic? Mainstream media have portrayed this as a tolerance issue, one where we, the ‘ignorant’ people of America, don’t have the brain processes to fully understand the situation. In reality it has nothing to do with tolerance. Most people that are opposed to the mosque aren’t opposed to a mosque being built. They are opposed to having it built at Ground Zero. Not a few blocks away like such has been reported but at the scene of the crime where debris and body parts hit the building. Don’t be mistaken. This is 100 percent constitutional that Muslims can worship anywhere they choose. Americans are imploring that they take advantage of many proposed alternative sights because there is a hot-as-coal sensitivity with this site. Greg Gutfeld, talk-show host for “Red Eye,” decided to experiment with the people proposing to build the mosque. Through an online twitter back-and-forth, Greg asked, “Hey, how do you feel about my gay Muslim bar set to be built near the Mosque? Do you embrace in the name of tolerance?” The point of this was to show the Muslim intolerance of gays. Park 51 responded, “You’re free to open whatever you like. If you won’t consider the sensibilities of Muslims, you’re not going to build dialog.”
This response shows that they expect the United States to “consider the sensibilities of Muslims” yet they choose to ignore the fact that extremists in the name of their religion chose to murder 2,751 people of many different backgrounds. As was said previously, if a religion that promotes Sharia Law, which are the laws of the Koran, talks of tolerance, the irony is so thick you could cut it with a knife. Sharia law outlines that women are responsible if they are raped, homosexuals will get executed, and drinkers and gamblers be whipped, it allows for husbands to hit their wives, orders death for people who insult or offend Muhammad, and many other supposed “crimes” that are punished with cruelty. The mainstream media will have you believe that this is about tolerance. This is not an issue of tolerance or constitutionality, it’s about what makes sense. Did we allow the Japanese to build a cultural center at Pearl Harbor? Of course not, this should be a no-brainer. If these people are not trying to incite then why not build this mosque someplace else? Why does it have to be at Ground Zero? These questions should wander into the minds of the suspicious because it just doesn’t smell right.
Adult Content
Sex
Covertly in the halls
Jacob Hight-
- Graphics Editor -
In a world infected by cold, machine-like judgments about what is beautiful, who is loveable, and what league we fit into; the fragile innocence of sex is easily corrupted. Many are herded into social castes by self-esteem-slaughtering social doctrines. High or low, we feel the need to stay ‘in-our-place.’ Worse, dogmas hound us, pointing traitorous fingers, shaming us for pleasuring and being pleasured. Our natural innocence is quickly taught lessons about why it is dirty, who is worthy, and what is acceptable. Rubbish! Our beings are born of something greater than the rusty artificial constructs of society. Loving sex can fill us with such shocking pleasure that we drop our masks, our lover smiling while kissing what we thought we had to hide. A source of innocent joy, passionate intimacy, and soul-freeing discovery, healthy sex can be a journey back to innocence and truth. Welcome to “Adult Content!” Within these delicate pages of newsprint and ink, this column is a safe place for joyful, life-affirming views of sex. It is also a guide to expressing love and exploring sex in a useful and hands-on way. This column embraces all orientations, genders, etc… and challenges creeds of guilt, shame, and discrimination. It holds our common humanity sacred.
Our sexuality can be both a powerful and delicate topic; rational letters to the editor will not fall on deaf ears, and it is this editor’s hope that readers will feel completely at ease writing in their comments. Some content may be explicit. While this column will not shy away from descriptions of genitalia or sexual acts, it will refrain from exploiting the use of slang and crude jocularity for the sake of shock value. If a column is to contain copious or intense explicit content, it will be noted for the benefit of readers who are not interested in that part of the column. Here, there are no such things as “prudes” or “sluts,” merely points of view. We are entitled to our point of view (how we act upon it is another matter). Silencing someone is an arrogant and dominating act, unworthy of a citizen of a nation of free speech. Sometimes being “open-minded” can be just as dangerous as being “closedminded.” But, this column is simply an opportunity. Whether readers agree, disagree or are willing to explore new horizons with this column, it will only serve as a source of strength and clarity. In this way, it has something to offer everyone. Should this column inspire frank discussions (and hopefully it will), it is the editor’s sincerest wish readers will be respectful in their discussions and not dishonor this column by turning it into a crude joke or source of shame, humiliation or embarrassment for others. Whether this is the first time you’ve read this covertly in the halls, or you read it covertly on a regular basis, with big smiles and great warmth this column welcomes you to “Adult Content.” Hopefully you will find it...inspiring.
Online Columns
That’s What She Said; That’s What He Said Make Your Man Say ‘Oh’
Kelly Davis - Copy Editor -
Make Your Woman Say ‘Oh’
Shane Rice
- Assistant News Editor -
www.meramecmontage.com
7
OPINIONS
September 2, 2010
Know thy media
Before watching the news, know where it’s coming from
Patrick Olds
- Opinions Editor -
No one will look out for your interests more than you. Such is still the case in journalism and media in general today. It’s extremely difficult to find any unbiased sources for news and information. It’s gotten to the point where you should hope a reporter or a writer doesn’t care about the outcome so you can get a fair assessment of both sides. This fall and beyond is going to be crucial to understanding current events and news. Whether our country is going through change for the better or the worse is one’s own opinion, but the voting blocs that mostly make up the college students
have historically been apathetic toward elections. Even with the momentum of President Barack Obama and hopes that a young voting bloc would come out to support him, that wasn’t the case. With health care, immigration and energy reforms either passed or in the works, this country has serious issues to consider and the upcoming fall elections should tell the president either to keep going with his agenda or to slow it down. Starting with television news, there are no channels that are unbiased. If you name a news channel or program, it’s very easy to predict how they will tilt. Whether it’s the conservative Fox News or the liberal MSNBC, it doesn’t mean that you should tune them out completely. People have to be able to put on a filter to get to the facts or the truth. Most of the major networks such as NBC, CBS, and ABC tend to tilt left of center or liberal and that also is not a bad thing. It’s human nature to have bias. You just have to be able to understand where your information is coming from. Citing sources is very important to
print and televised media. Most of us won’t check sources, but if it’s a story of interest to you, the sources should always be there otherwise you might be receiving an opinion rather than a report. In a survey conducted by the Pew Research Center for the People and the Press, there were 222 journalists and news executives at national outlets. The results were that 50 percent said they were unbiased or centrist. The other half (that actually told the truth) came to an interesting stat: more than four times as many journalists identified as being liberal as opposed to being conservative. News media should all be taken in; no one should block out a certain channel or person just because they have come under an ad hominem attack. If people are talking about a person or channel, they are most likely intimidated by those factors. A good example of this is Glenn Beck and Fox News. These factors are almost used synonymously with curse words. If you hear that, you should be encouraged to watch the show for yourself without any assumptions and take from them
what you will. Don’t allow other people to judge and decipher the strength of the information. With that in mind, I still have a good opinion of who gives the best interviews on television. By best I mean most information and tough questions to both sides. Chris Wallace of “Fox News Sunday” and Jon Stewart of “The Daily Show” are quite different but both have great ability at asking tough questions. Stewart is a self-identified liberal but will make fun of liberals when it’s blatantly clear they have made mistakes. This isn’t about getting one person to believe or go along with an opinion of any of these networks. It is all about looking out for one’s selfinterests and, in order to do that, you have to access the best information and get as close to the facts as possible. If you can stand going between the different viewpoints, I would advise a compare and contrast of news, current events and policy between all of the networks so that everyone can better acquire the truth. This fall will be quite an important time for all of us; I suggest you start paying attention.
Letters to the Editor Dear Editor,
Subject: Meramec’s Downfall As a former employee, I am delighted to see that the truth has finally come out regarding Dr. Petersen and Dr. Pai. I was forced from my position due to the closing
of Community Relations and the trickle down effect that resulted. No educational institution with an ounce of integrity or business sense would have allowed this to happen. Had I not found another job, I would have
been forced to take a 25% pay cut, work in a Department of which I had no knowledge, and possibly the worst ramification, I would have forced 2 people out of their jobs. Had there been any kind of forethought from
Administration they would have handled this in a far more professional manner and found a solution that was equitable for all.
is great place to get a cup of joe and do homework. I think picking Culpeppers and Bar Louie is lazy journalism, though. If the journalist can’t do the footwork, then pick a person who lives in the area. The Kirkwood Farmer’s Market and
Tropical Moose are right around the corner from Kaldi’s. Spencer’s Grill is great Diner (and it’s open late) on N. Kirkwood Rd. Euclid is an awesome record to store in Webster. Tei Too in Webster has awesome Thai food. I’d like to see real hotspots for college
students. Since my college years have started, I’ve never chosen to go the Culpeppers over Ice and Fuel, or Mike Duffy’s.
opened it and saw the trash printed about sex. I think that article went to extreme being explicit. I would expect to see that type of writing in a smut magazine…not in a school newspaper. There have been many,
many excellent articles in the Montage but this had to be the trashiest I have read in any newspaper. I am far from being a prude, having been in law enforcement for about 30 years but this was disgusting and sure doesn’t
help when it comes to being aware of sexual harassment that could very likely occur just by creating offensive discussions in the wrong places. Thank you for your time, I just had to voice my opinion about trashy articles.
- Meredith Herd
Dear Editor, Subject: Hot Spots This article is somewhat disappointing. I live in the Kirkwood/ Webster area, and I’m a student at Meramec, and there is so much more to the area than chain restaurants. I agree that Kaldi’s Coffeehouse
Dear Editor,
Subject: Trashy Sex Articles I always read the Montage, since I am a student, full time employee and part time employee (all at Meramec) but I must say I was extremely disappointed when I
Montage THE
www.meramecmontage.com
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Shannon Philpott Faculty Adviser sphilpott@stlcc.edu Joseph Douglas Editor-in-Chief Stephanie Stough Managing Editor Jeanetta Roberts Online Editor Courtney Stark Online Editor Joe Ray Multimedia Editor Jacob Hight Graphics Editor Shane Rice Asst. News Editor Kavahn Mansouri Art & Life Editor Patrick Olds Opinions Editor Spencer Gleason Sports Editor Kelly Davis Copy Editor Tm Doty Copy Editor
Clinton Borror Staff Writer Shawn Bruce Staff Writer Luelana Bustamante Staff Writer Joshua Cowsert Staff Writer Amber Davis Staff Writer Alex Ferrario Staff Writer Jayson Gifford Staff Writer Mark Livingston Staff Writer C.J. McDonough Staff Writer Alex Nezam Staff Writer Kurt Oberreither Staff Writer Meagan Roth-Roffy Staff Writer Elizabeth Rousseau Staff Writer
Kelly Glueck Staff Writer/Photos Nate Corley Staff Photographer David Kloeckener Staff Photographer Elizabeth Rule Staff Photographer Garryn Hasty Staff Designer Laura Spenke Staff Designer Anna Johnson Ad Rep Nick Martorelli Ad Rep
- Ryan
To place an advertisement, contact the advertising manager for rates, sample issues, etc., (314)984-7955. 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. (314) 984-7655.
- Susan Keyser
One copy of The Montage is free of charge. Up to 10 additional copies available, $1 each, at the office of The Montage, SC 220. Bulk purchases may be arranged with circulation manager. Editorial policy: All letters should be no longer than 500 words and must include identification as a student or faculty member, phone number and address for verification purposes. 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.
InDepth
Stephanie Stough - Managing Editor -
G
I
Let’s face it. Who knew that enrolling at STLCC-Meramec would mean de-
coding alphabet soup just to find the classrooms? Before heading to the store to satisfy a craving, look here to decode Meramec’s own version of alphabet soup and find each and every building with ease.
AC Assessment Center
In this room, new and prospective students take reading and math placement tests.
G
B
AD Administration/Clark Hall
D
C
AS Applied Science AS houses occupational therapy and physical therapy assistant programs. On the second floor, there are the architecture and interior design classrooms.
CE Couch Avenue
For adult learners interested in returning to school or taking a few classes, there are classes that are catered to their learning styles that they may sign up for. See the CE building for more details.
U
GH
CS Communications South Communications South is the home for the communication department and its professors and also features a tutoring lab for those needing help with foreign languages classes.
The greenhouse on campus accompanies the horticulture program.
L
D J
CP College Police Police patrol the ins and outs of campus and everything in between 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. There are several emergency boxes on campus located at the main entrance, Clark Hall and parking lots “U”, “S”, “F” and “C.” Campus Police may be contacted at (314) 984-7667
LH
R
This building is the home of the math tutoring and writing centers. Students are more than welcome to take advantage of this free Meramec service. People wanting to take advantage of the writing centers must bring their student ID.
HW
SS
Q
CN Communications North
GH Greenhouse
TH
AS SW
Rose Hill
PH SC
K
CC Child Care Center
CE Continuing Education
PP CC
BA is where the deans’ offices are located. On the second floor, there is a computer lab that allows limited free printing.
Effective July of 2010, the Child Care Center closed. This was a place where Meramec students and faculty could leave their children. There are no definite plans for future use of this building.
F
CP
BA Business Administration
Q
W
This building is imperative for new students. Located in Clark Hall, students pay and register for classes and can see an advisor or counselor. The financial aid office is also located in Clark Hall.
Big Ben
O
E
September 2, 2010
I
O
K
K
HE Humanities East
H
Y D
‘ C M M ER E S A
HW Humanities West Located near the theater, classes held in Humanities West are theater-or-\\music based. There are also practice rooms for the band, choir and orchestra and also a piano lab.
PE
V
CN AC
LH Lecture Halls On the second floor of the lecture hall building, SI students are available as tutors for select classes.
L Library The library has access to more than 20 million books through its Mobius database. This is also a place of slumber for many students wanting to catch some Z’s between classes. Printing and copy machines are also available, along with laptops, textbooks, magazines and of course, books that can be checked out every day of the week.
Geyer Road
HE
PE Physical Education Jazzercise, deep water exercise, stress management, fitness, karate, weight training and yoga all take place in the Physical Education building. Didn’t know Meramec had a pool on campus? Let it be known.
SO
AD
SC Student Center
CS
The Student Center could be considered the heart of campus. Located here, the bookstore and student commons feed a student’s needs for all things, including a quick bite to eat and a place to lounge with friends and study.
BA
SO Social Science
R
Psychology, sociology, anthropology and history classes are taught in this building.
SW Science West
K F
nd Road
In the Humanities East building is the Contemporary Art Gallery. There are about two to three free exhibits per semester from STLCC students, faculty and even local or international artists.
AL PH ABE T S P O U G
l Avenue
9
Science and nursing labs are located in Science West. There are also geological exhibits on display through out the halls.
TH Theatre
Meramec has hosted many musical events and plays in the theater such as performances by Kinobe, a Ugandan group, and hosts consistent concerts from the school’s own choirs, bands and orchestras. This year, Meramec’s Theater Department will be performing “Assassins,” “Miss Julie,” “Waiting for Godot” and “The Serving of Two Masters.”
ART & LIFE
September 2, 2010
A day in the life of a citizen soldier
PHOTO BY JAYSON GIFFORD
Levi Cochran is a member if the 1035th brigade Jayson Gifford - Staff Writer -
Engineering Science student Levi Cochran is one of the few students who have decided to face the danger at hand and become a citizen soldier. “I definitely believe in what our mission is and what we’re doing,” Cochran said. Levi is one of the future members of the 94 Fox is the special electronics device and maintaining unit. The unit specializes in troubleshooting gear our current frontline soldiers use to fight modern day battles. “We work to maintain and repair all different types of electronic equipment ranging from night vision to guidance systems,” said Cochran. In March 2011, Levi will ship out to his “A” school for rigorous training on these devices, but until then he remains as a part of the 1035th reception battalion at
Jefferson Barracks. “It’s a large amount of preparatory work, but is essential just like every other operation” Cochran said. So how does a typical day work out for citizen soldiers like Levi Cochran? A typical day in the 1035th starts around 5 a.m. with formation followed by a strenuous PT session that keeps the soldiers prepared for the call that may come anytime. Following the PT, their upper echelon or higher ranking commissioned or non-commissioned officers disperse Private Cochran and other 1035th soldiers to do their duties. “After my training it could be anything electronic, but for now the duties can vary from cleaning, all the way to problem-solving and troubleshooting other issues.” Before deployment to basic training, the 1035th required to train in several
PHOTO BY JAYSON GIFFORD
Levi Cochran assumes the prone position. Cochran is training to join the 94 Fox, which is the special electronics and maintaining unit. different disciplines. At basic training, they will learn to polish their skills of warfare and military life, but their pre-deployment tasks and trainings take place at different military installations. National Guard installations, located in Festus and St. Louis County, is the home base where soldiers in training will cover salutes, weaponry, technology, combat scenarios and obstacle courses.The bare minimum needed before the
initial deployment to basic training. However, with July and August being the deadliest months of the
feels excellent having the opportunity to serve my country and I look forward to having the opportunity to become a commissioned officer after I graduate,” Cochran said. Cochran looks forward to enrolling into the ROTC program at Lindenwood or Washington University to study aerospace or electrical engineering following his “A” school training and official induction into the United States Army National Guard.
“I definitely believe in what our mission is and what we’re doing.”
PHOTO BY JAYSON GIFFORD
Levi Cochran stands at attention with the 1035th reception battalion at the Jefferson Barracks.
-Levi Cochran
war and deployments being 12 months long, Cochran continues to do his patriotic duty. “I am extremely happy with my decision, and it
ART & LIFE
September 2, 2010
11
Meramec staff member debuts novel Joe Douglas
- Editor-in-Chief -
Approximately 1,000 years ago, Eadric Streona rose to fame and power in the kingdom of Mercia. He ultimately became known as the greatest traitor of the Britain’s Anglo-Saxon period. On Oct. 5, Streona will enter modern history through the new novel “Eadric the Grasper.” During the day, Jenny Gibbons works full time in the Access Office at STLCCMeramec. When she’s not working, though, she changes her name to Jayden Woods and becomes a historical fiction author. “I’ve realized that I give to people by entertaining them,” Gibbons said. Streona, meaning “the grasper” in Old English, was voted in a December 2005 issue of BBC’s History Magazine as the “worst” Briton of the 11th century, and one of 10 of the worst Britons in the last 1,000 years. According to the article, he betrayed King Ethelred II and allowed the Viking King Cnut the Great to take over Mercia. “Eadric is a different kind of hero. He just wants the
violence, the fighting to stop,” Gibbons said. “I try to provide that perspective, to make you question who the real hero is.” Gibbons said the idea of writing “Eadric the Grasper” came from reading the stories of Streona in historical documents of the 11th and 12th centuries. “I read his story and it matched really closely to what I already wanted to write.” “Eadric the Grasper” is volume one of a series titled “Sons of Mercia” and will be released on Amazon.com on Oct. 5. Volume two, “Godric the Kingslayer,” has not been scheduled for release yet. Gibbons is currently writing volume three. Kay Blalock, Ph.D., instructor of history for Meramec, wrote a review for the historical fiction novel. “It is an interesting read and offers enough factual information to serve as an educational tool as well as good entertainment for the modern reader.” In late April, Gibbons started a blog titled “Lost Tales of Mercia.” On every other Tuesday, she releases a new short story about a minor or major character in “Eadric the Grasper,” foreshadows
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The span of the front and back cover of the “Eadric the Grasper” book, written by Jenny Gibbons, aka Jayden Woods. events in the book, and Since 2008, Gibbons has “You cannot just sit there reveals unknown secrets that worked to find an agent and and wait for someone to notice add to the depth of the story. get published. Instead, she you,” Gibbons said. On Tuesdays in between, she said she decided to get it selfGibbons said she hopes posts related news and info published. “It’s ever harder to to eventually have her books regarding her stories. get to an agent because there appear on the New York While she is not a historian are so many wanting to get Times Best Sellers list. by nature, Gibbons said she published.” “The goal is to have that is interested in historians’ In the meantime, Gibbons one big, shining day when the reactions to ancient history. has been contacting authors book is released and you hit “There’s so little known… I and critics for reviews, and is the best sellers list,” Gibbons think it’s interesting to explore working with web partners said. “It’s a lot of work and people like [Streona] and why to spread out the novel’s it feels good and something’s they did what they did.” exposure. going to pay off, I hope.”
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12ART & LIFE
Kelly Glueck - Staff Writer-
Sun, 10 hours of music, action painting, Frisbees, and a ton of RayBans. That’s not all this LouFest had in store for its concert-goers. The two-day event held in Forest Park on Aug. 28 and 29 cost $38 for a single-day pass or $67 for the full experience. It featured many local food and boutique vendors as well as offering its guests a variety of educational resources and creative outlets. “LouFest was based off a proven model,” said LouFest mastermind Brian Cohen. “Get a bunch of people together in a park, throw up a couple of stages, stack the lineup with great bands, and make sure there’s plenty of food, drinks and portapotties.” Originally from Austin, Texas, home of the nationally respected Austin City Limits, Cohen said he had become fairly familiar with the music festival scene and sought the same for his new home here in St. Louis. With his model intact and a growing group of support, Cohen was faced with the challenge of providing quality entertainment. He knew that he needed to speak to his potential audience in order to find relevant acts, and what better way to communicate with his fellow St. Louis neighbors than Facebook? Cohen created a Facebook account, and through word of mouth, acquired his list of hopefuls. Teaming up with Contemporary Productions, Cohen was able to book 18 national, international and local bands for LouFest’s two main stages, including Broken Social Scene, She and Him (featuring actress Zooey Deschanel), Jeff Tweedy of Wilco, Built To Spill, and St. Louis’s own So Many Dynamos. “LouFest was without a doubt the most efficient music festival or gathering of people, for that matter - I have ever been a part of. I still can’t believe how smoothly things ran for a festival of its size in its first year.
The tone was set just right and everyone was in great spirits. I suppose it’s kind of difficult to be in a bad mood when you’re at an awesome party in your city’s backyard, though,” said Araon Stovall, lead vocalist and percussionist for So Many Dynamos. While the lineup was the majority of appeal, LouFest also featured an assortment of food and activities sponsored by several local vendors such as the St. Louis Science Center, the Plant Science Center, Whole Foods, Schafly brewery, KDHX-FM, and many more. Similarly to other nationally recognized festivals such as Pitchfork and B o n n a r o o , LouFest made being green cool and convenient. Near the stage, there was a refillable w a t e r station, w h e r e guests w e r e invited
Photos by Kelly Glueck
September 2, 2010
ART & LIFE
September 2, 2010 to refill their water bottles, thus cutting back on the overuse of plastic bottles, while still keeping fans hydrated. The festival also offered five recycle stations, each with a handful of staffers eager to help ascertain if disposables were part of the recycle, compost or landfill family. The vendors also offered compostable paper plates and plastic-ware to ease the carbon footprint. Not only were the place settings sustainable for the event, but the food that the local vendors used was exclusively local produce and was also competitively priced with easy to understand labels posting options for vegans and vegetarians. “We’re drawing in lots of different kinds of fans to the event, so we want people to be comfortable with food options,” Cohen said. When comparing the food selection with the food available at Pitchfork in Chicago, concert-goer Jacob Etter said, “Personally, I think LouFest had better food overall. There seemed to be a slightly better selection, and I enjoyed it more anyway.” While it was important for Cohen to create a sustainable festival that offered something for everyone, he could not leave out families. “We want LouFest to have something for everyone. So developing a kids area with fun and educational activities makes it much easier for parents to get out and enjoy the festival as well.” The Kids Village offered children and adults the opportunity to participate in a selection of art projects and music lessons, while also
13
Jeff Tweety, one of the main acts of LouFest, plays his set on the second day of LouFest. LouFest took place on August 28, as well as August 29. providing a rock climbing wall and a PlayStation 3 arcade. The Folk School of St. Louis hosted a series of sing-alongs for the kids, and taught them some simple basics of folk music. Whole Foods offered healthy
member of the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, explained why UV beads were a great idea for children. “They are great because they remind the kids that they are in UV light and it helps to remind them that they need to apply sunscreen. It’s really something fun and educational, and I think that’s what we were really going for here.” The festival brought an estimated 8,000 people together, educated them, fed them, and filled Forest Park with the sounds of 18 distinguished and breakthrough Indie and folk bands, thus putting St. Louis back on the music map. So what’s in store for next year? Cohen said, “So if people like it and they support it, I think in a few years LouFest could be a national destination festival. We have the perfect location, a city that is supporting us, and local fans that seem excited for this kind of event. Growing LouFest to three days and more stages is definitely a possibility.”
“We want LouFest to have something for everyone.”
-Brian Cohen snacks, and the St. Louis Science Center and Plant Science Center offered bean maracas, sun prints, UV beads and paper chromatography. Terry Woodford-Thomas, a
Kevin Drew of Broken Social Scene headlined the first night of LouFest. Drew is one of the main mebers of Broken Social Scene. LouFest showcased 18 bands split between August 28 and 29.
(Above)M. Ward of She and Him plays the final set of LouFest. (Below) Street artist Justin Tolentino creates a two-day mural for LouFest.
14ART & LIFE
Starcraft II: Wings of Liberty
September 2, 2010
Blizzard Entertainment achieves yet another milestone release GameREVIEW: Kavahn Mansouri - Art & Life Editor -
After 12 years, Blizzard Entertainment has finally made good on their word. Starcraft II was released on July 27, 2010. The game sold more than one million copies on the day of launch, quite a feat for any video game release. Not only did the game make bank on release day, game analysts are predicting that “Starcraft II: Wings of Liberty” will sell 6.5 million copies by the end of 2010. Starcraft II is the sequel to the classic real-time strategy game, “Starcraft.” The original game proved to be a cult classic in some places, and a phenomenon in countries such as
North Korea, where tournaments are held at the same regards of the Super Bowl. Blizzard’s release of “Starcraft II: Wings of Liberty” has proven that even after 12 years, the already breathtaking fanbase has done nothing
Starcraft II: Wings of Liberty brings new units to the games arsenal, as well as old units from the original game.
but increase. Fan base aside, Starcraft II breaks the barrier on the original gameplay of the series, stays true to the most basic elements of battle, and charges forward in the room for improvement section. Blizzard definitely went all out on this addition to the franchise, making the 12-year wait seem all the more worth it. Blizzard’s multiplayer games, such as “World of Warcraft” and the original “Starcraft”, already had a great infrastructure but with the rebooting and rebuilding of Battle.net, Starcraft II has not only become the easiest way to find a opponent, or
partner, to go to battle with, but has also given players the drive to gain achievements though feats in battle. Last but not least, Starcraft II’s storyline is one of the most compelling stories players can find in a realtime strategy video game. Most often than not a weak story is brought to the table and mediocrely delivered. Starcraft II delivers ten fold. The story reopens old wounds, gives conclusion to several loose ends from the original
game, and forces the player to step inside the shoes of freedom fighter Jim Raynor, the main character of the game. “Starcraft II: Wings of Liberty” brings a lot of new content to the table, while keeping the strong elements from the original game. “Starcraft II: Wings of Liberty” earns a battle-tested five out of five.
Starcraft II: Wings of Liberty
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SPORTS
September 2, 2010
COMMENTARY For the love of the game
Instant replay has been used to help several professional sports get the call right. Since August 2008, major league baseball has implemented instant replay on fair or foul ball home runs and home runs clearing the fence. Does instant replay belong in our national pastime?
Don’t forget the game
Spencer Gleason - Sports Editor -
Ever since the beginning of the century, instant replay has been a hot topic in Major League Baseball. Technology has taken us to a new level as a society and brought new arguments into our American pastime. The human element has always been a traditional part of baseball by giving the game some of the most memorable moments and some of the greatest bloopers. Famed manager Lou
Pinella gave the game many bloopers with his argumentative antics. His disagreements with umpires—the throwing of his baseball cap, the kicking dirt on umpire’s pants, screaming until his face was red—were all because he thought his base runner was safe. Meanwhile, the crowd came alive. In June 2010, Detroit Tigers pitcher Armando Galarraga pitched what would have been the third perfect game this season—27 batters faced, 27 batters out. The game was nearly perfect except first base umpire Jim Joyce missed a call on out number 27. What followed was one of the most genuine moments in baseball history.
Following the game, Joyce publicly admitted his miscall, apologizing to Galarraga, the Detroit Tiger family and all of baseball. The following game, Joyce, the home plate umpire, walked onto the field for the coaches’ meeting. Galarraga handed him the Tiger’s lineup card. Joyce, in tears, shook Galarraga’s hand, and the crowd came alive. As for Galarraga, upon entering the clubhouse, his teammates gave him a champagne shower for “his” perfect game—28 batters faced, 28 batters out. Moments such as these have given the game moments never to be forgotten. But what if technology takes these moments away?
Baseball needs to evolve
Joe Ray
- Multimedia Editor -
I think baseball needs to go further with instant replay because baseball should not be decided on close calls. The play was never reviewed because baseball wants to stay with the human element. Even jumbotrons show the replay and still the umpires ignore the play and go on with the game. We are growing
in a very technological age where baseball is evolving so much with it. Athletes can go into video rooms and look at their batting swing to improve it. Video has gone so far since it has come to us in sports. Yes, I do believe instant replay does belong in our national pastime. In order for replay to actually survive in baseball, they need to change the process for which replay is already done today. The umpires take so long to review the play. They need to teach them a much faster process so that pitchers aren’t waiting and losing the momentum of the game. Baseball does not need to re-
view balls and strikes because then it takes away from the fun and historic value of the game. Bud Selig needs to be taken out as the commissioner of baseball. We need someone to lead this game, someone preferably who has some common sense. Technology is evolving, and so is baseball. Wrigley Field in Chicago has not had a jumbotron in the history of the baseball park. Now they are thinking of putting one in. They are risking their historic value as a stadium to evolve with baseball. Things need to change now, so that we aren’t costing teams a chance in postseason.
Career Carnival at Meramec
Don’t miss this opportunity to meet with the staff of Career & Employment Services!
Wednesday Sept. 8, 2010
11am - 2pm Student Center Quad Rain date Wednesday, September 15.
Goodies! Goodies! Goodies! Participants will actively engage in career related games. Made possible through the generosity of: American Cancer Society Kraft Foods Build-A-Bear Workshop Laclede Gas Company CASCO Corporation Life Skills Clear Channel Radio Mississippi Valley Reg. Blood Cntr. Eltek International Laboratories National Multiple Sclerosis Society Fluid Measurement Solutions Operation Brightside Fox 2 St. Louis U.S. Army GlaxoSmithKline YMCA of South City Instuform Technologies As well as STLCC - Meramec: Community Relations, Foundation, and Service Learning For more information contact:
Career and Employment Services Tel: 314.984.7611 Fax: 314.984.7447 Email: CES@stlcc.edu
16SPORTS
September 2, 2010
Rams hope Bradford can bring success Patrick Olds
- Opinions Editor -
The St. Louis Rams are coming off their worst threeyear stretch in franchise history. Having only recorded six wins over the past three years, General Manager Billy Devaney deemed it necessary to build their team around f o r m e r -
Oklahoma quarterback and first-overall draft pick Sam Bradford. Having done little else in free agency and trades, the team is banking on improvement from the young players of last year’s team. Through the first two preseason games, the results were mixed at best. The past preseason game changed that sentiment after the Rams beat the New England Patriots in New England on Aug. 26. Bradford threw for 189 yards and two touchdowns. He started by taking the Rams on a 72-yard touchdown PHOTO BY: DAVID KLOECKENER drive that Sam Bradford throws a pass during the scrimmage at e n d e d Lindenwood University. with a
touchdown to rookie tight end Michael Hoomanawanu. Former MVP quarterback Rich Gannon said about Bradford’s performance in an interview with Sporting News, “I thought he looked really good, I thought he threw the ball well, and his locations on his throws were good. When you consider who he was up against — it was on the road, against Tom Brady — I thought he responded and played really well.” Impressive indeed, many national pundits are buzzing about Bradford and are giving the Rams great odds to eventually return to elite status. One of ESPN’s NFL reporters, Chris Mortensen, has been tweeting that he has heard from football people around the league that the Rams’ future is bright with Bradford. Aside from the promise at quarterback, the Rams have made it a priority to build from the inside-out. They have stacked their offensive line with young talent and veteran presence while doing the same on the defensive side. Offensively, they have drafted two bookend tackles in Rodger Saffold and Jason Smith and on defense they have added former Super Bowl Champion Fred Robbins and second-overall pick from 2008 Chris Long. Mortensen has posted his
comments on the Rams via Twitter. One of the comments he made had to do with how underrated he believed the offensive line was and how he thought it had a real chance to be good. If that’s the case, Bradford will see the field sooner rather than later. What the team lacks in proven playmakers, they make up for with depth. They are without a true number one wide receiver, but have five or six young receivers, not including Donnie Avery who went down against the Patriots. He is expected to miss the entire season with torn ligaments in his right knee. Before that happened, the Rams signed former University of Missouri wide receiver Danario Alexander to a contract earlier in the week. Coincidentally, he is looking to bounce back from a knee injury that cost him the opportunity to get selected in the draft. St. Louis Post-Dispatch columnist Bernie Miklasz alludes to the fact that this is not an elite caliber team. However, with the recent approval by the NFL owners to allow Stan Kroenke’s purchase of the Rams, along with the promising young players on the roster, this team has nowhere to go but up this season.
Dattoli’s Magic baseball team looks toward the new season Joe Ray
- Multimedia Editor -
The STLCC-Meramec Magic baseball team had a 3029 record last season, which to Magic coach Tony Dattoli was a successful season, but to their standards was not good enough for them. “Every year is different with the constant turnover with the junior college. We had some short coming last year and that’s on the coaching staff and myself,” Dattoli said. “We had a lot of distractions last year with cuts in the programs. That caused us to lose concentration. It was more of a focus on survival then playing baseball.” Many athletic programs were cut last year throughout the STLCC schools. The Magic baseball team
was the only STLCC baseball team that was not cut and they had to find a new team to challenge them at Busch Stadium. This would have been the seventh year in which the Magic would be playing Forest Park. Instead, the team is playing Lewis and Clark Community College, whom they have not played since 2008. “I think it is a nice change. I honestly am going to miss the rivalry between Forest Park and us,” Dattoli said on the change for the Busch Stadium game. “At the end of the day you knew you had to beat one another and you wanted to walk around the district saying we beat Forest park. We loved having bragging rights.” The expectations for the Magic have remained the same just like every season:
“At the end of the day you knew you had to beat one another... We loved having bragging rights.”
-Head coach Tony Dattoli
compete for a national championship. Dattoli always reminds his players about the real reason they are here at Meramec. Their academics are going to follow them for the rest of their lives. Dattoli believes that academics reflect individuality. Therefore, how much work you put into your academics is going to show up in the work you put towards baseball. The Magic have 16 players from last year’s team. Dattoli believes the incoming freshmen can challenge the veterans for starting spots on the roster. “All these men at several positions can play for any program in this area,” Dattoli said. Ben Smith, the starting catcher from last season, is also returning this year. Smith had a batting average of .291 with nine home runs and 47 runs batted in. Smith separated himself from the district as one of the best catchers, according to Dattoli, and he believes Smith can really improve to be even better than last year. This past summer, Les Smith, a potential returning player was drafted by the Detroit Tigers. He has signed with Detroit and is currently playing for the Connecti-
PHOTO BY: JOE RAY
Nate Young swings at basketballs to strengthen his swing during baseball practice. cut Tigers, a class Single A “I want to play excitminor league affiliate. His ing baseball. I think this first hit was a grand slam. team this year is going to Based on the experiences be a team that will steal a the returning players had from lot of bases,” Dattoli said. “We are going to try a lot last season, Dattoli believes that going back to the same of squeeze plays. We are gobasics that brought them na- ing to do a lot of hit and runs. tional fame a couple of years Defensively we are going ago, will help them become to be real good. We are goa competitive team again. ing to be exciting to watch.”