Feb 26 full issue

M T H E M O N TA G E

Tax Time: Cash to Stash Meramec interns provide free tax services for students DALILA KAHVEDZIC ART & LIF E EDITOR STLCC-Meramec is partnering with the IRS and offering free tax preparation for its 13th year in spring 2015 through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.

VITA provides students the benefit of having their taxes done professionally – for free.

“It’s good for us to get out to our community. It’s good for us to give to our students and our faculty,” Meramec Associate Accounting Professor Robyn Barrett said.

Those who want to use the service can be current or former students.

“Most of our students actually have W-2s, but we do have quite a few students that are non-traditional students that will come in and have several jobs or kids. All that is covered,” Barrett said. “We can do a very small business, but we can’t do bigger businesses or any type of rental income.”

Having a studentteacher combination in the room when taxes are being prepared helps the accuracy of the information being processed, Barrett said.

“We[Barrett, Accounting Professor Amy Monson, and a lab assistant] group the students into groups of two and they work together and we do that on purpose so that

Continued on p. 2 PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY DALILA KAHVEDZIC

Brown Bag Cafe awarded Freshman Guard Amanda Hughes Meramec Athletics hosts Cancer Sky Club hosts storm spotter Meramec Innovation of the Year Awareness Game training finds family on the court Page 3 Page 9 Page 11 Pages 6-7 Volume 50 Issue 10

www.meramecmontage.com

Feb. 26, 2015

2 NEWS Feb. 26, 2015

NEWS Upcoming music department showcases The Meramec Symphonic Band and Orchestra will present their first performance of 2015 with the Spring Instrumental Concert on Sunday, March 1 at 3 p.m. in the Meramec Theatre.

The concert will feature original music and guest soloists.

The Second Annual Meramec Choral Festival will take place 9 a.m.-6:30 p.m. on March 5 and 11:15 a.m.-noon on March 6. Performances will be held in Room 102 in the Humanities West building.

According to Associate Professor of Music Jerry Myers, the Choral Festival will feature nine local high school and children’s choirs from five different schools and organizations. Each choir will perform and receive a clinic from the University of Missouri-Kansas City Conservatory Concert Choir, conductor Charles Robinson.

Both events are free and open to the public. Seating is general admission on a first-come basis.

For more information, contact 314-984-7639.

BRIEFS Women’s History Month events launch March 2

Spring Career Fair scheduled for March 5

STLCC-Meramec will kick off Women’s History Month with a keynote presentation from Dr. Megan Ming Francis, the author of “Civil Rights and the Making of the Modern American State.” The presentation, “Why We Can’t Wait: Women, Civil Rights and Strategies for Today?” will be hosted from 11-11:50 a.m. Monday, March 2 in the Meramec Theatre.

Career and Employment Services will host a Spring Career Fair from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Thursday, March 5, in the gymnasium on the Meramec campus.

Ninety employers will be on campus looking to fill full and part-time positions, as well as offer internship opportunities.

Job seekers should arrive between 9:30 a.m. and noon to ensure recruiters will be available.

Those attending are encouraged to prepare for the event. Recommendations include: Request a list of employers recruiting at the career fair and begin researching positions they are seeking. Conducting the proper research allows participants the opportunity to tailor resumes to fit the employer’s needs. Having a list prior to attending the career fair

Global Gathering focuses on Syria The Florissant Valley Global Education Committee will host a global gathering Monday, April 6-9 on the Florissant Valley Campus. The gathering is designed to expose students to the richness of a culture or world religion. This semester’s focus is on Syria.

For more information, contact jpapier@stlcc.edu or 314-513-4510.

will ensure that you are able to plan which tables to visit.

Come prepared to distribute resumes by bringing at least 30 copies. Some employers will not accept hard copy resumes and will direct potential employees to apply online. This is to comply with federal regulations of how employers keep data on applicants. Participants should come prepared to speak directly with employers.

Develop a 20-30 second spiel about yourself.

Dress to impress. Be confident in your appearance. Wear professional clothing such as collared shirts, a tie, slacks and jacket for men. Ladies should wear a suit, skirt, blouse or slacks.

When approaching recruiters, be respectful of their space and maintain confident nonverbal communication. This includes making frequent eye contact, having a friendly demeanor and a firm handshake.

Be organized. Bring a portfolio, notepad and pen.

Prepare three to four questions

to ask employers.

Career and Employment Services will have an online application station so attendees can apply for positions the day of the fair, and tables will be available for attendees to complete hard copy applications.

For more information, call 314984-7611 or email CES@stlcc.edu.

Transfer scholarships for Meramec students Webster University has announced a new scholarship aimed at community college students interested in pursuing their bachelor’s degree on a parttime basis. Community college students planning on transferring to Webster University could qualify for up to $4,000 in scholarships for the 2015 Spring II, Summer, Fall I and Fall II terms. The program is set to launch in March.

For information about the scholarship, call Christina Gilbert at 314-246-7882 or e-mail cgilbert26@ webster.edu.

Students reflect on Black History Month DOMINIQUE CAMPBELL STAFF WRITER Black History Month was founded by Carter G. Woodson (1875-1950) who in 1912 became only the second African American to graduate from Harvard University; Booker T. Washington was the first. It started as Negro History Week in 1926 and was held during the second week of February. By 1976, February became known as Black History Month.

“For me, Black History Month is a reflection of history, not just African American history,” Human Resources major Jacqueline Middleton said.

“Three important figures to me have to be Martin Luther King Jr., Harriet Tubman and Frederick Douglas. Of course people should learn about Black History Month, especially African Americans.

People should seek out the information to be educated about history. Not just black history, but history in general.”

Matthew Norman, also a student working toward his general studies, said awareness of other cultures should be a priority.

“To me, it’s the remembrance of a rich history and of culture of African Americans,” Norman said.

The three notable African Americans he said were important to history were George Washington Carver, who experimented with peanuts.

In fact, he made peanut butter.

Another notable person he named was Rosa Parks, who was a part of the Civil Rights Movement in

its infancy. There is a section of Highway 55 that is named after her. She would not move from her seat when black people were told and expected to sit in the back of the bus. The third person named was Booker T. Washington.

Booker T. Washington founded many schools across the south for African Americans.

“It should be an unspoken ideal to take upon oneself to educate themselves on Civil Rights. Not just black or white issues, but history,” Normann said.

STLCC Art Appreciation Professor Dr. Patricia A. Rooney said it puts a spotlight on contributions. “Black History, is like the Harlem Renaissance arts and cultural movement. It continues to put a spotlight on the life-changing contributions for the better. African Americans have contributed positively to American culture as well as the global culture,” Rooney said.

W.E.B. DuBois, Frederick Douglas and St. Louis’ own Josephine Baker are three notable African Americans to Rooney.

“African Americans can teach us universally understood aspects of what it means to be human—love of family, struggles, challenges, effort and tenacity, resilience and achievements,” Rooney said.

Student Asmira Botic said she agrees. “It’s a month to honor African Americans who played a major role in the society, fighting for their lives and rights.”

Spring Career Fair FREE admission!

Meet with area employers and learn about employment opportunities in your community!

Thursday, March 5, 2015

9 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Meramec Gymnasium 11333 Big Bend Road, Kirkwood, MO 63122

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Lots H, L, X and Y - Faculty and Staff Parking Motorcycle Parking Additional Parking available on lots G, H, L, P and X Emergency Call Boxes Students cannot park in the Visitor Parking lot.

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Concealed firearms prohibited on College Property

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For more information, visit us online at stlcc.edu/mc or call us at 314-984-7611.

Non-discrimination Statement -- 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 related to discrimination or sexual harassment, contact the Associate Vice Chancellor Student Affairs at 314-539-5374.

St. Louis Community College is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. If you have accommodation needs, please call 314-984-7611 within two working days of the scheduled event to request accommodations.

Documentation of disability may be required.

NEWS 3

Feb. 26, 2015

Faculty, staff present the ‘coolest thing on campus’ Brown Bag Cafe awarded Meramec Innovation of the Year award DALILA KAHVEDZIC ART & LIFE EDITOR Throughout the academic year, teachers, directors, counselors and staff from various departments meet for the Innovation of the Year presentation at STLCC – Meramec. During these seminars, they exchange ideas to better the campus and help students.

The seminars came about from a program called The League for Innovation in the Community College, an international nonprofit association that is committed to helping community college improvement.

The League for Innovation consists of the league’s board of directors who provide direction for continuing activities.

Not only does the League for Innovation consist of leaders and community colleges, but it has more than 160 corporate partners as well.

According to Christaan Eayrs, co-chair of this seminar and STLCC-Meramec Mass Communications professor, four campuses (Florissant Valley, Forest Park, Meramec and Wildwood) compete against each other. Each campus has numerous entries submitted.

Meetings are then held to choose the winner, and the winner from each campus then moves forward and competes at district level with the other three campuses.

When judging for the winner, five criteria which are derived from The League for Innovation are expected; quality, timeliness, replication, efficiency and cost

effectiveness.

S T L C C Meramec Vice President of Student Affairs Kim Fitzgerald attended the Meramec presentation.

“Here’s the coolest things we’re doing on campus right now,” Fitzgerald said on the approach to the meetings.

Co-Chair and Assistant Art Professor Ken Wood was very open about the program.

“It helps to fulfill a need and make things efficient,” Wood said.

“It was hard to choose because everyone was well-deserving of the award.”

Brown Bag Café was presented by Debora Bronson who is a part of the Student Assistance program and Service Learning coordinator Debbie Corson.

STLCC-Meramec PHOTOS BY DALILA KAHVEDZIC Economics Professor Gail Hafer presented Debora Bronson, left, with the Student Assistance Program and Debbie Corson, right, Service Learning Coordinator, present information about the a canned good game Brown Bag Cafe at the Innovation of the Year presentation Feb. 19 on the first floor of the Student Center. that a few professors would come to orientation while Parents are often concerned “We want them to work have conducted within parents are taken into a separate with topics such as transferring with the students as an external their classes. room for 15-minute presentations once their student is done with source,” Clincy said.

Academic Adviser at and a Q&A session to address any classes at Meramec, completion This year’s Innovation of the STLCC-Meramec Mysha Clincy questions or concerns they may of FAFSA, campus safety, the A+ year winner was the Brown Bag presented the Parent Orientation have about their student starting program, the enrollment process Café program, an on-campus Session. their education at Meramec. and emotional support. food pantry for students.

In these sessions, new students

TAXES: More than 5,500 tax returns completed since program’s inception Continued from p. 1

way you got two sets of eyes that go over everything and then when they’re done, each tax return is reviewed by one of us before it’s filed,” Barrett said.

Students who prepare taxes take an accounting internship and receive the full three credit hours. “It’s considered an upper-level accounting class,” Barrett said.

“They have to pass at least one IRS exam in order to do the basic return, and if they want to do the advanced return, they have to pass the advanced exam as well.”

Accounting students have to pass a basic test to quality for filing tax returns, but they have the choice of doing the more advanced work which would include some of the more complicated returns such as stock and itemized deductions.

“There’s other small tests we encourage people to take, some of the smaller things like the military. If someone comes up with the military and you haven’t passed the military test, you can’t do it. There’s another one called cancellation of debt, which has become a lot more common lately for foreclosures and credit cards.

If someone comes up with that and they [students] haven’t taken that test, they can’t do it,” Barrett said. “They only have to take the basic, but most of our students, I’d probably say 75 percent of our students, take the advanced test.”

Since this class is an internship, students must meet the required amount of hours to qualify for filing taxes.

“We meet from 1 p.m. until 5:45 p.m. every Wednesday, so if you miss that there’s out-of-class work, plus now we’re actually working on the computer on the IRS system so they have to make it up. It’s a big deal if you miss class,” Barrett said.

In the Spring 2015 season, 18 accounting student interns completed the IRS certification course taught by Barrett and Amy Monson and have been trained to prepare state and federal income tax returns.

If a student is interested in filing taxes, they need to consult with Barrett.

“Before someone were to get in, they have to come see me and I wouldn’t say for an interview but they just have to talk to

me and then I will pull their transcripts and I’ll talk to their accounting instructors,” Barrett said.

There is a waiting list for both students who want to file taxes and also students who receive their certification to do taxes for others.

Barrett recommends students make appointments early to reserve a spot.

“It’s only on Wednesdays. We fill up very quickly because we take eight appointments every hour. Sometimes appointments are two hours, sometimes they’re one hour, so we get in 24 appointments a day. Most of them – I’d say 75 to 80 percent of them – are returning people and they start calling on Feb. 1 trying to get in,” Barrett said. “Sometimes we get cancellations at the end so they can always go on a waiting list.”

According to Markus Ahrens, chair of the Accounting and Legal Studies Department, throughout the first 12 tax seasons, 186 accounting student interns have prepared more than 5,500 tax returns.

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4 OPINIONS Feb. 26, 2015

LYRICAL LAMENTS

AUSTIN SCHUMANN ONLINE EDITOR

Let It Snow These last few weeks have been crazy, with plenty of ice and snow coming down across the country.

Now is time to explain how to stay safe and have fun when the weather outside is frightful. One thing to always remember: fire good, house fire bad.

Heated blankets are a wonderful accessory for a house with poor heating or a dad (and it is always the dad) that decides that it saves energy and money to keep the heat off. However, leaving them on for too long or setting them down in the wrong place can turn really ugly really fast.

Fireplaces are also great ways to keep warm, and whether it is a gas or wood stove, fire equals heat. Now many may be thinking, “But it is so cold, how do I know for sure if the fire I have started is too big or not?”

This is a very good question, though there is a good rule of thumb. Every fireplace comes in different shapes and sizes and gas and wood fires act differently, but if the fire is not contained properly, the fire is most likely out of control at this point.

Spending all day indoors can become tedious, but luckily

there are other options. There is plenty of fun to be had in the great, white wilderness that is the surrounding, snowy area.

Sledding is always a fun and wholesome activity for the whole family - all it takes is a good sled and hill. However, this can get boring after some time. Many have it in their heads that it is time to spice things up and add an obstacle course of sorts in their path.

This may be a very fun activity but despite popular belief, adding ramps to sledding courses greatly raises the chance of injury. If someone is determined to perform these feats, there are two precautions that would be wise to take.

The first option is to find a hill that is close to a hospital so it does not take long to receive care. The second option is to call ahead and have an ambulance on standby. The paramedics may ask to let them sled as well but this urge must be resisted, they need to be able to respond fast to any injuries.

Now, if the thought “But I have no sled, how can I join in on this merriment?” comes to mind, the wonderful news is a sled is not needed to slide down a hill at dangerous speeds. Flat pieces of cardboard and lids to trashcans work just as well.

Many people may not enjoy cold weather but that is no reason to not have fun. Just remember these tips and tricks and you too can be outside singing “let it snow, let it snow, let it snow.” Just remember no one is responsible for any injuries that may be received from either deviating or following the guidelines put forward, other than yourself.

HELP! I NEED AN ADULT

LIVIE HALL OPINIONS EDITOR

Apartment Hunting for the Poor As if being a broke college student was not bad enough already, it gets worse when it’s time to move out. Parents love their children and want them to succeed, but they also want them out. This being said, many kids are ready to get away from the rules and regulations that come with living with parents.

Finding an affordable apartment with a part-time job can be tricky, but luckily St. Louis is big enough to offer several options.

The first step is to figure a budget. The next part is the fun part and that is to start looking.

St. Louis’ safety changes from block to block. Good parts are surrounded by bad parts that are

FOR THE HEALTH OF IT

ALEX WHITE PHOTO EDITOR

Eat Good, Feel Good

ILLUSTRATION BY: KATE LAM

EDITORS Spencer Gleason Livie Hall Dalila Kahvedzic Marissa Diercks Alex White Austin Schumann Bill Gezella Brittney Farrow Shannon Philpott

Editor in Chief Opinions Editor Art and Life Editor Graphics/In-Depth Editor Photo Editor Online Editor Copy Editor Copy Editor Faculty Adviser

The age-old saying of “you are what you eat” is not too far from the truth. The body really does use the nutrients it is given to get through the day.

surrounded by good parts. Places like downtown, north city and north county are places to avoid.

It’s best to look for a place close to the necessities. It makes more sense to find somewhere minutes away from work and school.

South city and south county have really great prices and Craigslist is the perfect website to find them.

With this in mind, Craigslist should always be used with caution. There are a lot of scams and shady people amongst those search results and there is a certain level of intelligence required to know the difference between those and legitimate opportunities.

When searching on Craigslist, make sure to select “has title” and “has image.” This gives the ability to visually examine the apartment. Never go off of an ad that only has text. The lessor can talk up the apartment, saying it’s “newly remodeled” and is only $300 a month. The apartment always ends up being gutted and not worth anything.

The site will ask for a price range. Make sure to put a minimum amount, at least around $400. Otherwise, a bunch of $1 offers appear and those are most definitely scams.

As far as extra help affording a place, the best thing to do is find

a roommate. This will allow costs to be halved and will make a huge difference on a bank account.

Finding the right roommate is the hardest part. Never search for someone “perfect” because they do not exist. With a year lease, people’s true colors come out and they are not always pretty.

There will be frustrations, arguments and nuisances, but this just comes with it. Sit down with family and talk with friends. Make sure to reserve enough time to really look at places. If the plan is to move out in May, start looking in late January, early February.

Use the next few months to gather boxes and save some extra money. Be prepared to pay first month’s rent and a security deposit. The first “big move” is the hardest, but the independence and real-world knowledge make it worth it.

Always start off with a good, filling breakfast. Making scrambled eggs in the microwave takes less than three minutes.

First, crack a few eggs in a microwave-safe bowl. Add a bit of milk and then whisk until everything is mixed together. Add salt and pepper to give them a little bit of flavor.

Last, put the bowl into the microwave for 45 seconds. Take them out and stir them a little bit and put them back in for 30-45 seconds more. The result is fresh scrambled eggs and adding fruit can make it even better.

Lunch can be expensive, especially at school. Packing a lunch seems like something only elementary kids do, but it can save a lot of money.

A good option is two flour tortillas rolled up with peanut

butter on the inside. This is great because it does not need to be refrigerated and it has a good amount of protein. Add some baby carrots and raisins for a snack in between classes.

For dinner, go to the store and pick out a pasta and sauce.

Homemade sauce is simply made with a can of tomato sauce and a few spices such as, basil, parsley, oregano and garlic.

Put a small pot on a burner that is set at a very low temperature.

When the it is almost done, add the tomato sauce and spices.

Season the sauce to taste and let it sit until it’s warm, remembering to stir occasionally.

Eating right does not have to be a chore, finding easier ways will make it more fun to cook at home rather than turning towards unhealthy food.

ILLUSTRATION BY: JASON WATERS

MONTAGE STAFF THE MONTAGE Dominique Campbell Staff Writer Christian Hargas Staff Writer Jason Jamison Staff Writer Alyssa McCutchan Staff Writer Sara Ponder Staff Writer Ty Taylor Staff Writer Nicole Dixon Staff Photographer David Kloeckener Staff Photographer Kate Lam Staff Photographer/Designer Jason Waters Staff Designer

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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.

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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.

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OPINIONS 5

Feb. 26, 2015

Gateway to the West...Coast?

CHRISTIAN HARGAS STAFF WRITER The St. Louis Rams have struggled to maintain consistency and relevancy in the NFL for the past 10 years because of bad team performances and bad frontoffice decisions.

It has resulted in the league’s second worst record since 2006 (43-100-1).

The Rams have not made the playoffs since the 2004 season and have not won a Super Bowl since 1999. Simply put, this team has struggled for many years in the Midwest.

As if things were not already “doom and gloom” for St. Louis football fans, Rams owner Stan Kroenke announced on Jan. 5 a plan to construct an 80,000 seat stadium in Inglewood, Calif.

As it looks right now, nothing official has been announced.

There are still plenty of things that have to play out first, before any relocation process begins.

However, this writer believes the Rams need to stay where they are. St. Louis benefits from them, the NFL benefits from having them in the Midwest and the Chargers would seem like a better fit for Los Angeles.

The Rams called L.A. their home from 1945-1994.

However, Georgia Frontiere, former team owner, filed for relocation in late 1994 and moved the team to St. Louis. Relocation was much simpler in the past.

Now, teams have to go through different steps and receive majority approval before moving.

As a result, if things went Stan’s way, this leaves Ram fans in St. Louis high and dry as they will be forced to watch their team move out of town. It would be saddening to the fans to see their team leave, if it happens, but it certainly would not be the first time an NFL team relocated out of the Gateway to the West.

In 1987, the St. Louis Football Cardinals relocated after the organization failed to reach an agreement with the city to construct a new stadium.

At the time, the football team was sharing Busch Stadium II with the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team. However, Cardinals Owner Bill Bidwell wanted his team to have their own stadium and the city refused. As a result, the team packed up and moved to Glendale, Ariz., where they still currently reside.

Apparently, according to the Rams, the team tried to reach a deal with the city to complete a $700 million renovation project at the Edward Jones Dome in 2012, but Saint Louis refused.

On Jan. 26, the organization agreed to go on a year-to-year lease at the dome.Most indicators,

right now, are pointing toward the Rams returning to L.A. However, the relocation process must be resolved first.

Also, there are a couple other teams that have been in the Los Angeles conversation; the San Diego Chargers and the Oakland Raiders. Both the Raiders and Chargers are in the same situation as the Rams - stadium issues, alleged lack of fan support, etc.

Personally, the Chargers would be the best fit for L.A. at this point. There are three major reasons as to why they would be a better fit.

First, the Chargers, of these three teams, have the largest fan base in Los Angeles.

According to ESPN.com, 38

percent of the Charger fan base is in Los Angeles. Judging by that, it would make more sense for them to move there because they have a larger fan base there.

Second, Chargers Owner Dean Spanos has consistently talked about how much more beneficial it would be for him and his team if they were to move to Los Angeles.

Spanos has been on the record a few different times and said he would like it more if the Chargers were to head north.

Third, and lastly, QUALCOMM Stadium is one of the oldest fields in the NFL. It was built in 1967 and there have not been many major renovations to it. The city of San Diego has tried for years

ILLUSTRATION BY: CHRISTIAN HARGAS

to come up with enough money to fund a new stadium, but have failed to do so.

If they have not achieved any renovations to their hometown stadium yet, what makes anyone believe they will now?

Even the Oakland Raiders would seem like a better fit for L.A. than the Rams because of their history in the city. Although it is not nearly as long as the Rams’.

It appears, by the majority of NFL fans, that the Raiders seem miserable in Oakland.

They are forced to share their stadium with the Oakland Athletics baseball team, because they cannot get a deal done for a new one.

Bad weather equals bad drivers

Letter to the editor I am a STLCC student and currently in my second year of the Network Engineering program. I am writing regarding the article printed about the Meramec Theatre’s production of Larry Shue’s “The Foreigner.”

In this article, not only was a quote the director never actually said attributed to her, but the Sunday matinee was erroneously listed as starting at 7:30 (Sunday shows are doors @ 1:00 and start @ 1:30.) These are basic mistakes that somehow made it past the entire editing staff, and I feel these simple mistakes misrepresent the

journalistic integrity of your awardwinning publication.

Students enrolled in the theatre program are required to see each play for class credit. If they plan for Sunday evening, showing up while the set is being torn down does not allow them to complete their assignments. This negatively impacts their GPA as a result.

There are other issues, such as incorrect descriptions of some aspects of the play and the misspelling of a few names, but I have covered enough.

Kyle Baker “The Foreigner” Sound Designer

ALYSSA MCCUTCHAN STAFF WRITER There is a historical epidemic in the St. Louis Metro area that has been affecting locals for years.

The epidemic continues to be passed on from one generation to the next.

The disorder is known as none other than “Precipitation Bad Driving Disorder” also known as “PBDD.” Change is not always easy and the changes of seasons are no exception.

There is always the first rain of spring, the first hailstorm and the first snow of winter.

Once a driver is experiencing behaviors of PBDD, there is little to be done at that point.

Vehicles are therefore left to fend for themselves to solve the mysteries of the road as the driver becomes incapable to exhibit any

cognitive and motor function.

The method of how the disorder develops, whether hereditary or a contagious airborne virus is yet to be determined. The disorder is not limited to a specific part of St. Louis.

The disorder can be found all over the area and authorities have not been able to quarantine those who currently posses PBDD. Studies have so far proven the longer the length of time there is between such forms of precipitation results in a higher number of PBDD symptoms experienced throughout the area.

Months, years and sometimes even decades of driving knowledge take an instant vacation the day precipitation occurs.

With such a long-standing strand of this disorder, one may assume a possible cure may have been found by now.

Unfortunately, it seems as though nothing has proven to create lasting results.

The only ways to avoid the side effects of PBDD are to stay away from getting behind the wheel of any vehicle and stay in a secure and safe location.

6 INDEPTH Feb. 26, 2015

TWO wins,

one game

Cancer Awareness game takes Lady Archers to regionals and raises money for two children battling brain cancer LIVIE HALL OPINIONS EDITOR

Braelynn French Braeylynn is a beautiful, vibrant fouryear-old girl.

Braelynn was diagnosed with a rare cancerous brain tumor called a Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG). She is undergoing a clinical trial at St. Jude Children’s Hospital in Memphis, TN. Braelynn is very familiar with the basketball court. Her mom, Shae French, played basketball at St. Charles West.

And then came to St. Louis Community College to play for the STLCC-Meramec Magic and Head Coach Shelly Ethridge and Assistnat Coach Melanie Marcy.

Shae’s teammate was Coach Janey Milligan, who is another assistant for the STLCC women’s team.

Her aunt, Blake French, is currently playing at William Woods University.

Braelynn is a bigtime fan and loves to cheer on her loved ones.

Despite all of the recent changes, Shae, Braelynn and their entire family are in good spirits.

They continue to stand firm in their belief that God is The Healer and will continue to do a miracle in Braelynn’s life. The family thanks everyone for their continued prayers and support.

Meramec Girl’s Basketball Coach Shelly Ethridge was about to take to the court with her team to play their sophomore game. Winning meant the Lady Archers would be a top-seeded team and would continue to regionals. However, Feb. 22 meant something much more.

The girls came out for their pre-game warm up, but they were not wearing their jerseys. Instead they surprised their coach by sporting pink T-shirts, all with a picture of them with Ethridge’s mother who had lost her battle with lung cancer only a month before.

“I’m trying to give the pre-game talk, and I’m crying, trying to get them hyped for the game. It was pretty difficult,” Ethridge said.

During the game, Ethridge focused on how the girls were playing, never straying from her coach persona. On the outside, she looked like a businesswoman who would accept nothing short of a win. On the inside, she was fighting the emotion of what the game really meant.

This was the fourth annual Cancer Awareness game and the proceeds from the silent auction and raffles were going to two little kids who have been fighting brain cancer for most of their lives.

Eleven-year-old Jacob Swiderski and 4-year-old Braelynn French are both

children of members of the Meramec family. Jacob’s father, Joe Swiderski, is the Athletic Facilities Manager and Braelynn’s mother, Shae French, played for Ethridge during her time at the college.

“The pressure is really not on the game itself, but the pressure is that we want to raise even more money than we have in the past because we have two recipients this year,” Ethridge said.

Braelynn and her mother were unable to attend the game, but Jacob sat in the stands with his parents. At halftime, Jacob received a blue, star-shaped balloon to recognize his nine-year fight with brain cancer.

Ethridge and Athletic Director Shawn Summe noticed Jacob was not feeling well, he said. On top of taking 32 pills a day, Swiderski said his son has seven tumors in his brain and is 50 percent blind in his right eye. He was rubbing his eyes not from a lack of sleep, but a lack of sight.

The girls continued to play, defeating the opposing MCC Penn Valley Lady Scouts 84-43. While Ethridge’s focus was on her players’ fight for victory, it was hard to not be distracted by a different kind of fight.

“It was a very emotional game. It brought back a lot of memories of my family and then to have Jacob in the stands

INFORMATION SUBMITTED BY MERAMEC ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT

PHOTOS BY DAVID KLOECKENER TOP RIGHT: Freshman guard Khalia Miller jumps toward the basket for a lay-up during the Lady Archers’ home game on Sunday, Feb. 22 against Metropolitan Community College-Penn Valley. The Lady Archers defeated Penn Valley, 84-43. BOTTOM RIGHT: The Lady Archers gather around Head Coach Shelly Ethridge during a timeout. The Lady Archers wore special T-shirts and head-bands for their Cancer Awareness game. The T-shirts had a picture of the Lady Archers team and Ethridge’s mom. Ethridge’s mom died of lung cancer on Jan. 21. BOTTOM LEFT: The STLCC men’s basketball team warms-up before their home game on Feb. 22. The men wore commemorative T-shirts for the men’s and women’s Cancer Awareness basketball games. TOP LEFT: STLCC Sophomore Lady Archer Deborah Holcomb races toward the basket.

INDEPTH 7

Feb. 26, 2015

ILLUSTRATION BY: JASON WATERS

was just awesome. The fact that he was able to attend and the proceeds are going to him. It was just a very emotional game,” Ethridge said.

Summe said it was very special to be a part of the day. Ethridge’s mother came up with the idea for a cancer awareness event after she lost her husband, Mike Ethridge, to cancer in December 2011.

After the money used to pay for the T-shirts, Ethridge estimated Jacob and Braelynn would receive around $1,500 each to help defray the costs of hospital stays and treatments.

“It’s pretty awesome how fortunate we are at STLCC to have someone like Shelly who really cares and wants to make a difference. It takes a community to do this and the support has been awesome,” Summe said.

Admission to the game was free, but T-shirts were sold and a silent auction was held. People lined up by both tables throughout the game, their bids going for more than the gift certificates and other prizes.

Summe said it was great to see Ethridge’s passion outside of basketball. It is a yearlong process to get the donations that are raffled off, the silent auction items and the shirts before the game.

Even preparing for the game itself is

different than any other.

“There’s more pressure on this game because everyone wants to win so badly for both our sophomores and in honor of my parents,” Ethridge said.

Ethridge said it was a very humbling feeling to be a part of the game. Her girls ended up nearly doubling their opponent’s score, securing their trip to regionals.

Amongst the many emotions felt that day, the last thing Summe was worried about was a win.

“The game, that’s regardless. I wasn’t worried about that. For me, deep down, I’m just hoping that this excels today and the support with it. That’s probably more important for me,” Summe said.

When the game was over, people slowly began filing out through the gym doors.

Swiderski and his wife were wrapping up a conversation as Jacob waited on the bleachers, sitting on his balloon so it would not fly away.

Throughout the past nine years, he has fought hard, having undergone five surgeries and three types of radiation.

Swiderski is used to the daily routine of Jacob’s life, acknowledging the energetic little boy he still is. But on Sunday, Jacob had won much more than the girl’s team did and it was time to go home and rest.

The next day was another day to fight.

Jacob Swiderski The Lord made Jacob an athletic, creative, kind-hearted and very loving boy that always smiles.

Unfortunately, 11-year-old Jacob was diagnosed with a cancerous brain tumor when he was two-and-a-half years old.

Since his diagnosis, he has endured nine years of various chemotherapy drugs, three types of radiation, as well as five brain surgeries. His most recent surgery was Feb. 17, 2011.

Through it all, Jacob has been a strong, determined, very happy boy that has tackled each set-back like a champion.

You hear many children say that they are inspired by their parents. Jacob has inspired us more than we will ever inspire him.

Jacob is currently undergoing another round of chemotherapy.

The Swiderski family prays that through treatment God will finally put an end to this chapter of Jacob’s life.

Jacob’s father, Joe Swiderski, has been a long time employee of St. Louis Community College. He has coached baseball, and runs the athletic facilities for the STLCC-Meramec campus.

INFORMATION SUBMITTED BY MERAMEC ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT

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ART & LIFE 9

Feb. 26, 2015

Spin cycle: Tornado and storm safety Students attend educational storm spotter meeting provided by The Sky Club

Studying for midterms

ALYSSA MCCUTCHAN STAFF WRITER The Sky Club at St. Louis Community College - Meramec hosted the third annual National Weather Service meteorology event in the campus theater from 6p.m. to 9:30p.m. Thursday Feb. 19, 2015.

Warning Coordination Meteorologist Jim Kramper from the National Weather Service of St. Louis spoke at the event.

Participants had the opportunity to train as storm spotters.

“It is important to know how to protect yourself,” Kramper said. “My job is not to save your life, it’s you - there is only so much we can do.”

Part of knowing how to protect oneself is to know some basic terminology during times of severe weather.

Watch: Conditions are favorable for the hazard to occur.

Warning: The hazard is likely already occurring Other important factors of learning how to protect oneself in severe weather are to know where to receive such warnings and to pay attention to weather forecasts.

Television and radio are the top methods to receive such information, Kramper said. If caught amidst severe weather, quick decisions can save a life.

Judge the situation and make the best choice.

The basement is the best place to go in cases of severe weather besides flooding. DO NOT drive in cases of severe weather.

According to Kramper, there is one major reason why Missouri weather is “crazy” and that is geography.

Cold air comes down from the arctic and warm moist air comes up from the Gulf of Mexico.

These two opposing climates meet in the central parts of United

DALILA KAHVEDZIC ART & LIFE EDITOR Midterms; in other words timeconsuming, life-sucking, sleepdepriving, stress giving tests are coming up. Time to let social life burn in flames - if it hasn’t already. Take the time to take care of not only grades but also health.

PHOTOS BY KATE LAM Meteorologist Jim Kramper from The National Weather Service in St.Louis explains to students how to spot storms at the storm spotter training session Thursday, Feb. 19 in the Meramec Theatre.

States creating a wide range of weather patterns. Thunderstorms are the most common form of extreme weather in the Midwest, he said.

How does an area get thunderstorms?

• Warm Moist Air • Unstable Atmosphere: air wants to rise • Triggers: cold fronts, warm fronts, low pressure, daytime heating • Wind Shear • Updraft “Warm moist air is the fuel supply for thunderstorms in the atmosphere,” Kramper said.

“The atmosphere is unstable,

with air consistently wanting to rise.”

The higher the air rises, it reaches colder temperatures, which causes the warm moist air to cool.

When the water temperature drops it becomes condensation, creating clouds.

It is when condensation gets pushed out of the updraft of warm airflow and becomes weak that it produces rain. The rain is known as the downdraft. A wind shear is when 2 columns of air that pass in different directions at different speeds. The combination of a strong updraft (warm-moist air) and a strong downdraft (rain) creates perfect conditions for a thunderstorm (or other extreme weather), he said.

“Nearly 60 percent of all severe storms trek toward the northeast driven by south warm moist wind,” said Kramper.

Another form of extreme weather in the Midwest apart from thunderstorms are tornadoes.

“A funnel cloud and tornado is not the same thing.” Kamper said.

It is not classified as a tornado until dust and debris appear from the ground. Not all tornadoes appear in the traditional form of what one may assume, he said.

“Only 16 percent Kramper demonstrates the path of a thunderstorm at the storm spotter training course sponsored [of tornadoes] don’t get

by Meramec’s Sky Club Feb. 19. much bigger than skinny

little things,” Kramper said.

The National Weather Service is always looking for spotters to report information on weather patterns in local communities as well as damage caused by storms, said Kramper.

The NWS needs help from locals to be the eyes and ears in every county in Missouri. There is a multitude of things that need to be reported.

Things to report include: • Tornadoes, funnel clouds, and wall clouds • Wind: 58 mph or more is considered severe weather. All damage is to be reported: trees, power lines, roof damage, etc.

• Hail: communicate the size of hail spotted. One-inch hail is the criteria to be considered a severe thunderstorm warning.

Report all hail sized no matter the size.

• Flooding: flooding is the number one cause of death in the United States, higher than tornadoes. Six inches of swiftly flowing water can knock down a person while each foot of water exerts 500 lbs of force.

• Winter storms: snow, ice, sleet, freezing rain, etc. It is helpful to measure the amount (inches/ feet) of snow and thickness of ice on surfaces.

Reporting weather patterns helps the NWS know how to better serve the community and improve on future weather pattern predictions, Kramper said. Local volunteers are a valuable source of information in confirming predicted and unpredicted patterns in specific areas.

EAT A GOOD BREAKFAST. Start off the day with some healthy and filling foods. A variety of fruits such as apples, bananas, or s t r aw b e r r i e s would be just fine. A glass of milk with a bagel or some eggs with a glass of orange juice, breakfast bars or even a cup of green tea are all beneficial. For those like myself who just can’t seem to stay away from coffee - go for it. Muffins, toast, pancakes, waffles — the possibilities are endless.

DO NOT EVER PROCRASTINATE. Okay, we all do it. Even if we hate to admit it. You are digging up a hole that is hard to come out of. Save yourself the trouble.

STUDY AHEAD OF TIME. Do not save it all for the week before, or even worse, a few days before. Cramming a load of information into your brain in such little time cannot be healthy or helpful.

STUDY PARTNER Being in the presence of somebody else doing their homework or studying can encourage one to do the same.

SPLIT UP STUDY TIME AND REWARD YOURSELF Do not study for hours on end. Reward yourself — study for an hour and have a 15 minute break to do the laundry or dishes. Okay, kidding. Eat, shower, refresh, relax. Mentally prepare for more studying, whatever would relax you.

ALONE TIME Have time to yourself, without a computer screen or a cellphone or anything else. Just lay there and relax; take a nap.

Give your brain some time to recuperate.

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SPORTS 11 Feb. 26, 2015

For the love of the game

Fresh Hoops Freshman Guard Amanda Hughes finds family on the court ALYSSA McCUTCHAN STAFF WRITER

SPENCER GLEASON EDITOR IN CHIEF Teamwork makes the dream work A friend leaned over to me during the STLCC men’s basketball warm-up on Sunday, Feb. 22. They commented on how talented the men looked — slam-dunks and ally-oops.

True. This men’s team is one of the most talented group of basketball players I have seen in my time covering STLCC athletics. But when it comes to game time, and the issue of transferring their talent to the moment when it matters, teamwork is missing.

Instead of working together and focusing on just putting the ball in the basket, they are looking for the “Ooh’s and Aah’s” from the crowd.And the results are not in the 2014-15 STLCC Archers’ favor, with a 13-15 record.

For the first time since the NJCAA divided into three divisions in 1985, and STLCC entered the NJCAA Division II, STLCC is finishing a regular season with more losses than wins.

That dates through STLCCMeramec Warrior basketball teams, Meramec Magic basketball teams and STLCC Archer basketball teams, following the consolidation in July 2011.

To put that in perspective, a winning percentage below .500 has not happened since Ronald Reagan was president of the United States.

The Archers have lost six of their last nine games. Their longest winning streak of three games, only reaches that high because of a one point win against a JV team — a team previous Archer basketball teams have hit the century mark against.

There is a history to uphold that comes with representing STLCC athletics — and basketball teams in particular.

Last year’s team understood what it meant to play as a collective group and achieve the ultimate goal of a NJCAA Tournament victory. What did the 2013-14 team accomplish when they played as “one” — an eighth place finish in the country.

To put that in perspective, there are 105 Division II NJCAA men’s basketball programs.

If the Archers want to accomplish anything of importance this season, as they enter the Regions XVI Tournament, there is no time like the present to kick it into gear.

And here is a word of advice — teamwork.

With a 23-6 record, the Lady Archers finished the 2014-15 regular season on a five-game winning streak, as they head into the Region XVI Tournament.

Freshman guard Amanda Hughes is one of the new additions to the team this year.

Hughes moved to St. Louis last fall from Marshalltown, Iowa to be a part of the women’s team.

Hughes said she has found the move to be a good one.

“I really do like St. Louis a lot,” Hughes said.

Hughes began playing basketball in third grade at the Parks and Recreation Center in Marshalltown. However, it was not until Hughes was in fifth grade that a true love of the game was born.

“They didn’t have it [basketball] for the school. It was something you signed up for,” Hughes said. “My dad and I used to watch [University of MissouriColumbia] Mizzou games together when I was younger and I think I wanted to impress him. So I would practice in the driveway and then I really started to enjoy it.”

Growing up Hughes said that she has always been competitive.

And that competitiveness carries over onto the basketball court.

“I like the competition,” Hughes said. “I’ve always been really competitive and I enjoy being on a team and working with other people.”

Hughes said that her teammates are the one of the reasons why she enjoys St. Louis.

“The most fun part of coming to St. Louis and joining the team was meeting new people,” Hughes said. “The hardest thing would be getting used to the traffic and having to manage my time a lot more because of it.”

Having several other offers from schools in different states, Hughes had many factors that went into the decision of becoming and Archer.

“The cost was one of the biggest reasons [why I chose STLCC]. They offered the most

money compared to tuition,” Hughes said. “I really like the coaches too.

They are really friendly and they know what they are talking about.

They want the best for you as an individual player.”

In regards to the relationships between the teammates, H u g h e s compared the team to having 11 close sisters.

“I am closest with my roommate Abbey [Holtkamp],” Hughes said.

Off of the court, Hughes said her most memorable moment with her teammates this season came during their trip to Florida, where the Lady Archers played two games, over the span of the first couple days of the new year.

“We were at the beach and saw several dead jellyfish,” Hughes said.

“As a team we wrote ‘Jellyfish RIP. From STLCC women’s PHOTO BY DAVID KLOECKENER basketball team’ in the sand. It Lady Archers’ freshman guard Amanda Hughes sets herself before taking a free throw shot during STLCC’s home game on Feb. 11. The Lady Archers defeated Three Rivers Community College, 87-67. Hughes moved was really fun.” from Iowa to join the STLCC Lady Archers this seaosn.

Basketball however is not wanted — Health Information athletics. the only reason for Hughes’s Management. My dad works “I want to go where they have move to St. Louis. in a hospital. After doing some my degree,” Hughes said.

“I know people here,” Hughes research of my own, I thought it Regardless of what the future said. “I wanted to live in a city sounded like something I would has in store for her, Hughes said and STLCC had the degree I really want to do.” that she will always remember After her years of wearing the her 2014-15 teammates. And next navy blue and silver, Hughes said season, her talent on the court, she does not know if basketball will continue to grow.

I like the competition, I’ve always been really will be in her future after “I’m looking forward to competitive and I enjoy being on a team and working graduating from STLCC. improving my skills,” Hughes with other people.

When deciding where to said. “Next season, I hope to have continue an education, Hughes improved my defensive and being said her focus is on career above more aggressive skills.”

“

Amanda Hughes

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