8
Erie Square Gazette, Port Huron, MI Thursday Feb 23, 2012 Volume 60, Issue 10 Serving the Blue Water area since 1931. A public forum by and for students. Danielle Kennedy Copy Editor How does SC4 celebrate Black History Month? With a packed gymnasium and a group known as the Zuzu African Acrobats, hailing from Mombasa Kenya. “It was the largest single audience I have ever experienced on our campus during my 16 years at SC4,” said Pete Lacey, Vice President of Student Services and Chair of the Global Diversity Council. “The gym was full of energy and audience members were having a great time.” On Feb. 11, the Zuzu African Acrobats troupe performed in the SC4 gymnasium. Several of the members of the group were known for having appeared on “America’s Got Talent.” “I thought the show was fantastic,” said Geri Kimbro, founder of MLK event and SC4 Global Diversity member, “They were awesome.” They danced, they tumbled, they contorted their bodies in cringe worthy manners, and they balanced precariously on chairs. All for the pleasure of the audience. An audience that was at times, part of the show. “We packed the gym for the first time in years, and it couldn’t have been any better. And I was glad to see so many young people participating in the show,” said Kimbro. One of those participants was a former SC4 student who wished to be known by his stage name, Phoenix. He was amongst many audience members who chose to show off their limbo skills. “It was hard. I did it before, but that always was hard for me before,” said Phoenix. He went on to say that he enjoyed the show, and would attend if SC4 did a similar event in the future. “Based upon the success of this show we will certainly be looking to offer a similar type of experience to our campus and community next year,” said Lacey. “We hope to come and perform again,” said Zuzu African Acrobat, Edison Baya. Baya said that what he and the others do when performing is considered a part of their culture. And that if anyone is to take anything away from the show, “we like for them to do some exercising.” Kimbro felt that the acrobats brought some cultural diversity to SC4, and “that’s what we’re all about.” “We wanted to provide the audience an opportunity to have fun while experiencing the rich cultural history of East Africa in celebration of Black History Month,” said Lacey. Lacey said that feedback from the show has been very positive. “Audience members left our campus happy and several people posted on Facebook about how much they enjoyed the show. We were also contacted by an organization in Canada that saw the article in the Times Herald and wanted contact information,” said Lacey. How did SC4 manage to snag such an event? “We actually received an email prior to the holiday’s from the organizer stating they would be traveling near our area and wondering if we would be interested in a show,” said Lacey. “We were looking for an event to celebrate Black History Month and inquired about bringing the show to our campus.” SC4 gets its dance on Zuzu African Acrobatic troupe members build a human tower during their performance at the SC4 gymnasium Feb.11. Photo by Twana Pinskey Zuzu members entertain audience by balancing on objects such as chairs during their performance. Photo by Twana Pinskey A former SC4 student, who wanted to be known by his stage name Phoenix, performed the limbo during audience participation. Photo by Twana Pinskey Heartbreak from #1 Page.3 Fund your education Page.5

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Page 1: Issue 60-10

Erie Square Gazette, Port Huron, MI Thursday Feb 23, 2012Volume 60, Issue 10

Serving the Blue Water area since 1931.A public forum by and for students.

Danielle KennedyCopy Editor

How does SC4 celebrate Black History Month? With a packed gymnasium and a group known as the Zuzu African Acrobats, hailing from Mombasa Kenya. “It was the largest single audience I have ever experienced on our campus during my 16 years at SC4,” said Pete Lacey, Vice President of Student Services and Chair of the Global Diversity Council. “The gym was full of energy and audience members were having a great time.” On Feb. 11, the Zuzu African Acrobats troupe performed in the SC4 gymnasium. Several of the members of the group were known for having appeared on “America’s Got Talent.” “I thought the show

was fantastic,” said Geri Kimbro, founder of MLK event and SC4 Global Diversity member, “They were awesome.” They danced, they tumbled, they contorted their bodies in cringe worthy manners, and they balanced precariously on chairs. All for the pleasure of the audience. An audience that was at times, part of the show. “We packed the gym for the first time in years, and it couldn’t have been any better. And I was glad to see so many young people participating in the show,” said Kimbro. One of those participants was a former SC4 student who wished to be known by his stage name, Phoenix. He was amongst many audience members who chose to show off their limbo skills. “It was hard. I did it

before, but that always was hard for me before,” said Phoenix. He went on to say that he enjoyed the show, and would attend if SC4 did a similar event in the future. “Based upon the success of this show we will certainly be looking to offer a similar type of experience to our campus and community next year,” said Lacey. “We hope to come and perform again,” said Zuzu African Acrobat, Edison Baya. Baya said that what he and the others do when performing is considered a part of their culture. And that if anyone is to take anything away from the show, “we like for them to do some exercising.” Kimbro felt that the acrobats brought some cultural diversity to SC4, and “that’s what we’re all about.” “We wanted to

provide the audience an opportunity to have fun while experiencing the rich cultural history of East Africa in celebration of Black History Month,” said Lacey. Lacey said that feedback from the show has been very positive. “Audience members left our campus happy and several people

posted on Facebook about how much they enjoyed the show. We were also contacted by an organization in Canada that saw the article in the Times Herald and wanted contact information,” said Lacey. How did SC4 manage to snag such an event? “We actually received an email

prior to the holiday’s from the organizer stating they would be traveling near our area and wondering if we would be interested in a show,” said Lacey. “We were looking for an event to celebrate Black History Month and inquired about bringing the show to our campus.”

SC4 gets its dance on

Zuzu African Acrobatic troupe members build a human tower during their performance at the SC4 gymnasium Feb.11. Photo by Twana

Pinskey

Zuzu members entertain audience by balancing on objects such as chairs during their performance. Photo by Twana Pinskey A former SC4 student, who wanted to be known by his stage name Phoenix,

performed the limbo during audience participation. Photo by Twana Pinskey

Heartbreak from #1 Page.3 Fund your education Page.5

Page 2: Issue 60-10

Editor-in-ChiefTwana Pinskey

Production EditorZack Penzien

Buisness EditorChristina Stoutenburg

Copy EditorDanielle Kennedy

Managing EditorAlyssha Ginzel

Web MasterClay Kimball

Photo EditorLiz Whittemore

Sports EditorChristian McGeachy

AdviserJohn Lusk

ESG Contact Info:Email:[email protected]:323 Erie StPort Huron MI48060

Editor’s Note:All views expressed in editorials and columns contained within the ESG are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of the ESG or any of its advertisers.We welcome feedback!

Erie Square Gazette, Port Huron, MI2

Find podcasts and other content online

at esgonline.org

EntertainmentThursday Feb 23, 2012

FREAKY FAST DELIVERY!©2011 JIMMY JOHN’S FRANCHISE, LLC ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

SUBS SO FAST YOU’LLFREAK!

Christian McGeachy Sports Editor

Different semester, but the same game. Play the cards right and trump will come your way. Even though students at St. Clair Community College enjoy going to school, they have to find ways to have fun in between classes. So, like the fall semester, I found my own way to cope through the painful and often times boring hours in between classes. Which was by playing the wonderful, interesting and at first the confusing game of Euchre. Euchre is a very unique card game and usually is only played in Canada and most of the state of Michigan. I for one, before last semester, had never

heard or seen a card game of Euchre. I was really confused, but before you know it, I was playing it over and over again and found myself addicted. But, I was not the only one. Jacob Eagle, a student from Croswell, picked up Euchre while coming to SC4. “As I progressed, I got better and started to learn more about the fascists of the game,” said Eagle. I agree. Euchre is a game of skill, luck and most of all strategy. And the most effective way to learn this game is to play it more and more. Euchre is more than just a card game to Eagle and the other students. Students like Josh Shaffer, a second year student from Memphis, said, “I like

that it (Euchre) passes the time between classes.” On another note, Shaffer also said, “It (Euchre) grabs all the students together...and you make more friends.”

So, this card game is not just about trumping the opponents, but building relationships with other students. But, Jeremy Case, a student from Lakeport, said simply, “It’s just

fun.” So, take it from someone that had no idea about Euchre before. It is worth the time to play this game, to pass the time and also to meet new people.

Trump in play

Games, games, games

Zachary Penzien Production Editor

Videogames these days are kind of an expensive hobby, especially when everyone today is trying to save money. Especially college students. Video games can be seen all over on campus, from consoles hooked up to the TV’s in the college center, DS players, even Iphone games. Chris Hischke says, “I haven’t been able to buy a new platform in years. Most of my money goes to school or food, my DS and most of my games were gifts.” Here are some things that I do to play games, even within my small budget. First, I tend to buy games that are a bit old. I tend to play games that are about a year old. There are a lot of advantages to this, all of the bugs have

been patched by this point and the prices have dropped to more manageable levels. But if you are playing multiplayer games, this is where this strategy falls short. Years out of the release, people are really good and will steamroll you, or the online population of the game has dwindled. If you do want to play a “Modern Warfare” or “Halo,” you rent them. And yes, video stores still exist. I recommend Family Video. I use them a lot; there you can get a video game for five days, for seven bucks. I have played through “Mass Effect 2” almost twice for a third of the price. There is a limited supply of the games they carry, for instance I still can’t get “Skyrim.” There are also a lot of games on the Ipod touch, from $5.99 to the low low price of free. I don’t have as much experience with this platform, but I did pick up a game called “Zenonia.” It is a cool RPG with four installments and it is free, with some things you can buy in game like gold. Well, that’s all I got for this issue. Hope It helped, I’m going to go play “Fall Out,” cheers.

Video game photo by Korey Hodek under a Creative Commons license

Students at SC4 show that trump always wins. Photo by Christian McGeachy

Page 3: Issue 60-10

Erie Square Gazette, Port Huron, MI3

SportsThursday Feb 23, 2012

Christian McGeachySports Editor

“We did everything we came here to do, except win the game,” Coach Dale Vos said. After a tough overtime loss to Oakland Community College earlier in the week, the St. Clair County Community College men’s basketball team faced the number one team in their division. On Feb. 18th, the SC4 Skippers hosted Mott Community College. The Skippers led Mott Community College at the half with a score of 38-33. Through a hard fought battle, the Skippers went back and forth with the Bears of Mott Community College. But at the end of the game, Mott Community College

Jesse SchienkeStaff Writer

In order to have success at any level of basketball, a team must defend its home floor. On the road, anything can happen, including things often out of that team’s control. At home, there are no excuses. A team must defend its home

Heartbreak from #1

Defending home

Michael ScottStaff Writer

This past Friday, the St. Clair County Community College baseball team packed their mitts and bats, tossed on their caps and ditched the friendly confines of campus for the fresh, smooth, green grass of the “Volunteer State.” Led by new Head Coach Mike Greene, SC4’s boys of summer have hit the road for an 11 game spring trip throughout Tennessee to kick of the 2012 season. “I’m excited for down south,” said Greene. He expects to return from the trip with a record of 8-3, and possibly even 9-2. The Seattle, Washington, native replaces former coach Dennis Dwyer, hoping to bring an end to the coaching carousel that ensued in recent years after the departure of long time head coach, Rick Smith. Along with Assistant

slid by on a 68-64 win over St. Clair County Community College. Also, giving Mott Community College their ninth single digit loss of the season. With the loss to Mott Community College, SC4 record stands at thirteen wins and fourteen losses. Just below the five hundred win percentage. Also, the Skippers have now lost two in a row. But Coach Dale Vos, coach of the St. Clair County Community College men’s basketball team, is still a strong believer in his team. After the game he went on to say, “We’ve played two games this week that we felt like on that day, we were the better team.” Vos would also go to say that his team played good

man to man defense, and also on the rebounding aspect of the game versus Mott Community College. Even with the two straight losses, Vos said, “I do believe that we are hitting our stride.” After the game, Vos told his players, “We’re off tomorrow, so if you wanna lay on your couch and feel sorry for yourself, go right ahead, but you gotta be back Monday and go back to work.” With only three regular season games left to go, the Skippers will have to heat up to have a better chance in the NJCAA tournament. Last home game of the season will be on Feb. 29 against Henry Ford Community College at 7:30 p.m.

floor. And that’s exactly what the Lady Skippers did Saturday, routing Mott CC, 68-44. “I think this was the best overall game we’ve played all year,” said interim head coach Mike Groulx. The Skippers, who wore pink uniforms to support breast cancer

awareness instead of their traditional white, jumped out to an early 10 point lead five minutes into the game and never relinquished it. “The key to this win was our execution,” said Groulx. “We had been working hard in practice and everything seemed to be clicking today. I

think we’re peaking at the right time as a team.” Teisha Knott paced the Skippers with 15 points and Heidi Highstreet added 14. Groulx noted strong play inside from Jade Gaines. In addition to a great win, the Lady Skippers also enjoyed a game attendance that

was higher than usual. “Everybody comes out when they hear about Mott,” said Josh Moffitt, a SC4 sophomore from Brown City, MI. “If you’re going to come to one game, this is the one to be at.” The win moved the Skippers to an 8-7 conference record (15-13 overall), which

puts them in fifth place heading into the final three games of the season, as well as the playoffs. “If we can continue to improve, I like our chances in the post season,” said Groulx. The Lady Skippers next home game will be Feb. 29, at 5:30 vs. Henry Ford.

Coach Andrew Buelow, the anxious Greene hopes to bring stability to the program and improve upon the dismal record of 39-101 that reflected the previous three seasons. “I wanna be here for a while and more,” said Greene, who also believes the team will be competing this season for a Michigan Community College Athletic Association championship. Hoping to advance to the NJCAA Region 12 Playoffs, in Battle Creek, Greene leads the well- balanced 25 man roster into the season, intending to build upon an impressive fall campaign. He plans to take advantage of being overlooked by the other teams in the conference. With a favorable non-league schedule, the Skippers look to get off on a very hot start. After receiving the job late, Greene was forced to leave the state to recruit.

“We had to recruit from outside of the state because I got the job after all the Michigan kids had already signed,” Greene said. The team consists of four players from Seattle, one from Mississippi and one from Texas. The pitching staff is led by left handed ace, Tim O’Callaghan. The imposing, 21 year-old sophomore leads a tall group of pitchers that throw in the mid 80’s range. Greene is very high on the staff and expects it will catch a lot of teams by surprise. There are also high hopes for O’Callaghan. The lefty is expected to win, and eventually transfer to play at a four year college. “He’s a lefty with upgrade…..awesome curveball. He’s gonna go somewhere,” said Greene. First Baseman Donavon Rigel returns to lead a young but talented Skippers infield. The former

Auburn Hills Avondale stand-out provides excellent leadership, as well as ability. The Skippers possess a speedy outfield that will make it tough on opponents looking for hits. The squad is centered by sophomore Charles Melvin from Redford, Michigan. He is a speedy leadoff hitter

who can hit and bunt, and hopes to be SC4’s offensive catalyst. Mickal Helton, a pitcher from Tacoma, Washington, enjoys playing for Greene despite the cold Michigan weather. He is enthusiastic for the opportunity and is excited to be part of the SC4 team. “We have alotta

Baseball heads to Tennessee with high expectationsguys from outta state. We’ve become close and are all really good friends, great teammates and just can’t wait to play ball,” said Helton. The Skippers home opener is scheduled for March 3 at 2 p.m., against Grand Valley State Club. The game will be played at Sanborn Park.

Deion Stegall (#5) goes for the lay up against the #1 Mott Community College. Photo by Christian McGeachy

Photo by Sean Winters under a Creative Commons licence

Page 4: Issue 60-10

Erie Square Gazette, Port Huron, MI4 Thursday Feb 23, 2012

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BusinessTechnologyHealth

Campus

Twana PinskeyEditor-in-Chief

Ah, spring break. For some college students it means the chance to frolic in the sun on a

Michael ScottStaff Writer

St. Clair County Community College looks old, beat-up and boring, suggesting that perhaps her best days are behind her. However, on Thursday, Feb.9, in the M- Tech Center located to the northeast part of campus, the SC4 Board of Directors voted to approve the start of a capital project that will make the campus freshly

new, and both exciting and young again. The vote was passed with a unanimous decision, receiving seven votes from the seven present members. “The board has approved it as a project and we are in the final stages now of getting all the ducks in a row in terms of agreement with the city,” said Chairman of the Board, John Adair. The vote to approve the development project further

progresses and formalizes a plan already approved by the city of Port Huron. The McMorran Greenway and Street Closure project will offer dramatic changes to the SC4 campus. McMorran Boulevard will be vacated by the city, and closed from Erie Street to River Street. The new construction will essentially equip SC4 with a “front door” to campus by providing an entrance sign welcoming

visitors or students to the college, as well as a newly landscaped courtyard. River Street will remain open so that cars will be able to get in and out of the parking lot. However, modifications to the road will be made. “Bids to contractors have already been sent out. SC4 hopes to receive them back within the next month to start construction by tearing up the roads right after graduation for the winter semester. This project is just the first of many for SC4. Five capital projects are in the works all together,” offers SC4 President, Dr. Kevin A. Pollock. Pollack also maintained that the funds for the project have been raised by the SC4 Foundation. It is very important the people and students realize that none of the

money for this project is coming from tuition or tax dollars. It is all donations. The five capital projects will also include the expansion of the Natural Science Museum in the Mackenzie Building, the historical restoration of Room 312 in the Main Building, a plan to create a Campus Innovation Center and provide campus signage. “It’s an exciting project,” says Adair, “It will be exciting to see something move on campus and make some improvements.” The benefits of the project are both fundamental and secondary. The fundamental benefit is the safety of the high volume of students and pedestrians crossing through the busy intersection of

Board ok’s project, SC4 to get facelift

beach anywhere warm. For students from St Clair County Community College’s Global Awareness Club, it means going to New York on an

educational trip. According to GAC club President, Rachel Kobylas, the club’s newest members have been actively involved, assisting

with locating lodging and developing the trip itinerary. “I have been most impressed by the leadership qualities and ‘go get ‘em’

spirit within these members,” said Kobylas. According to Kobylas, the trip takes place from March 5-10.

Kobylas explained that a portion of nearly every day of the trip will be spent at either New York University or Columbia University.

New York bound

McMorran and Erie, with the secondary benefits being esthetics or “looks” of the campus. “At the same time of accomplishing safety, we will be developing areas for students to pass through or sit down and relax. It will provide a traditional college feel,” also stated Adair. For now things look bright for the future of St. Clair County Community College. Students are both excited and leery for the improvements to begin. Caylee Gordon, a 19 year-old first year student at SC4 said, “It’s gonna be cool and make our campus feel more connected, but it’s gonna cause the fire trucks to have to go all the way around and take more time to respond to emergency calls.”

Model image of the McMorran Greenway and Street Closure project at St. Clair County Community College. Photo provided by SC4 Public Relations.

Page 5: Issue 60-10

Erie Square Gazette, Port Huron, MI5

CampusThursday Feb 23, 2012

Walsh College has over $300,000 in scholarships available for new undergraduate students who enroll in spring classes. Registration begins February 20.

WALSHCOLLEGE.EDU

Liz WhittemorePhoto Editor

On Sunday, Feb.12, 2012, close to 180 students and family members attended College Goal Sunday. From 2-4 p.m. at St. Clair County

Students receive help to fund their education

Meghan GradyStudent Writer

Whether it is with students or staff, one thing that is certain at SC4 is the fact that each and every semester our family here is always growing. One of the more recent additions to SC4 is Business Math teacher, Shannon Cruickshank. Even though Cruickshank is a newer teacher here at SC4, these campus grounds are not unfamiliar to the SC4 alumnus and current TRiO tutor. According to Cruickshank, tutoring has brought her

many unexpected compliments from students who expressed their appreciation on how their success was solely based on her guidance and knowledge. She went on to explain how accepting a tutoring position was thought of as just a job, but had realized quickly that the faculty all work as a team and really are “a true family.” Cruickshank holds a B.A. in Accounting from right here at SC4, and is currently pursuing an MBA at Walsh College. If you thought that she was busy enough, she explained that she was also in the process

of taking the second out of four Michigan CPA exams. Marysville is Cruickshank’s hometown, which she resides in with her husband, Pat, their two children Jake (Junior) and Carly (Sophomore) as well as their two dogs. To this present day, Cruickshank is very much involved in the affairs in Marysville, specifically at Marysville High School, not only as an alumnus, but as the parent of two current students. She has even joined other parents in starting the Marysville High School Golf Team, which her daughter, Carly, is an

athlete on. As the interview proceeded, Cruickshank thought

New business math teacher at SC4about the question asked; what can you identify that most people don’t know

about you? As she paused, her husband gave her an idea; they had described Cruickshank to be extremely organized and takes her, and others’, education very seriously. These two components seem to be the exact equation to why all of her students become successful. Some of Cruickshank’s hobbies are golf, reading a book other than a textbook, walks by the St. Clair River and spending Sundays cooking with her family and friends over some fabulous cuisine.

Alyssha GinzelManaging Editor

She said no, and the Montgomery Bus Boycott ignited. The moment Rosa Parks refused to give up her bus seat was an iconic moment in the Civil Rights Movement, as well as African American history, and was definitive in ensuring equality and progress for generations to come. But Rosa Parks did more than refuse to give up a bus seat, and with the help of storyteller Rosie Chapman, students of SC4 will have the opportunity to witness, “The Life and Times of Rosa Parks” on Thursday, Feb. 23, at noon in the Fine Arts Theater. Rosie Chapman, a social worker at Utica Schools, has performed for churches, juvenile

The legacy livescenters, prisons, nursing homes and museums, as well as in Australia, Germany and Scotland, as an exchange student for Michigan State University. Chapman incorporates audience participation while performing a skit, fully costumed, embodying and communicating the attitudes and tribulations throughout Rosa Parks’ life. Alyssa Ferri, a sophomore music student of SC4 and President of the SC4 Music Club, said she attended Chapman’s performance of Harriet Tubman in the winter of 2011 and definitely plans to go to this year’s performance. The Thursday at Noon Concert series is a free admission performance. For more information, call (810) 989-5709.

Community College, in room 150 of the MTEC building, financial aid advisors helped those who attended fill out the free application for federal student aid. “We help students and families all day

every day fill out the form, but it’s a place where we can help multiple families at one time,” said Josephine Cassar, Director of Financial Assistance and Services at SC4. “It’s one way that we

help give back to the community.” College Goal Sunday happens usually every February and is a national event, having begun in Indiana in 1989. 40 states and Washington, D.C. planned events this year. This year was St. Clair County Community College’s seventh year participating in College Goal Sunday. “If it’s easier for families to come in on a Sunday, so they don’t have the typical running home from work to get dinner on the table and still get the professional assistance that they need; then I think it’s

a great opportunity,” said Cassar. Students were asked to bring either their 2011 tax forms, W2, or 1099 forms with them to fill out the form. “Applying for financial aid helps remove some of the barriers, financial barriers that could be there for students. We need to see more and more students going to college and completing their degree. This is a way that they can access some funds to help them complete their educational goals,” said Cassar. SC4 student Amanda Coffelt, 19, from Jeddo found attending College Goal Sunday

beneficial. “It was useful because they help you figure out how to answer the questions,” said Coffelt. Students that attended and filled out a survey for College Goal Sunday have a chance at winning six statewide scholarships being offered by organizers for the event. There is one $1,000 scholarship, two $500 scholarships, and three $250 scholarships students have a chance at winning. Drawings for the scholarships will be on May 1, 2012, to be used for the following academic year.

SC4 Registrar Carrie Bearss assists a woman filling out the FAFSA at College Goal Sunday Feb.12, 2012. Photo by Liz Whittemore

Photo provided by Shannon Cruickshank

Page 6: Issue 60-10

Erie Square Gazette, Port Huron, MI6 Thursday Feb 23, 2012

Community

We want great things for you. udmercy.edu/apply 800-635-5020

Wednesday, March 21 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.Student Center, McNichols Campus

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Transfer.Transfer to UDM and pursue a bachelor’s degree in one of our 100+ majors. You’ll learn from professors who are completely committed to your success. Join the 92 percent of our grads who are employed (or in grad school) within six months of graduation—and discover a path that will take you further than you ever imagined.

Christina StoutenburgBusiness Editor

“I don’t think there’s anything like it in Port Huron,” said Dan Nichols, owner of Sail Away Cafe. “It really reminds me of being in New England somewhere.” Having reopened on Nov. 28, the Sail Away Cafe offers a variety of panini sandwiches, soups, salads, and a full espresso bar. Specialty drinks are created by Katie Voss, a professional barista of 12 years. “She is the personality of this cafe,” descried Nichols. Gluten and vegetarian friendly, Nichols, who is a professional chef of about 13 years, sees these as “opportunities not problems.” Horomone-free meats and organic, fair trade coffee are offered as well and everything is

Russell KovarGuest Writer

Two words, free tuition. Michigan state Senate Democrats are currently in the final stages of drafting a piece of legislation that guarantees free tuition to any Michiganian K-12 graduate who wishes to continue past high school into post-secondary education. The bill, called the Michigan 2020 Plan, would offset the median $9,575 it costs annually to go to college in the state of Michigan by

prepared from scratch. Free Wi-Fi is available to guests. The cafe has the ability for both in house and out of house catering, which enables them to accommodate small parties. Already offering take-out, Nichols hopes to start a lunch box program in which a meal would be ordered by guests and then delivered. A full Italian gelato bar is another aspiration, which he hopes to achieve by June. The cafe is open every day during the week, Monday thru Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. “We would be open later, if we had a reason to be,” noted Nichols, “We are here for you, not vise-versa.” Sail Away Cafe is located at 231 Huron Ave, Port Huron.

Sail away

Your money, your educationrescinding $3.5 billion, of an estimated $34 billion in tax breaks granted to Michigan corporations annually. The structure of the Michigan 2020 Plan is loosely based on Kalamazoo’s Promise program, which has offered Kalamazoo area graduates four years of free tuition at one of 43 schools in the state of Michigan since 2005. In that time the program has had 85% of its total 2,300 students attaining/remaining in the process of attaining their degree. The bill comes at

an important point in time for students as state funding for public universities has dropped over 65% in the last decade, leaving the increasingly heavy burden of tuition hikes on students’ backs. One such student is Tony Perez, 20, a Ft. Gratiot native who expressed concerns over tuition hikes recently. “Tuition bills have been killing students lately, more kids have been going to community colleges and things like that instead of more expensive institutions

like U of M or MSU not because they’re not smart enough to get in, but because they simply can’t afford it,” said Perez. Perez also vocalized his support for the plan saying, “It’s a great idea, it’s good for the state, it’ll help keep people in Michigan not to mention make Michigan attractive to outsiders as well.” Perez added that it would be nice to be able to go to a bigger school without having to get some kind of special scholarship or grant. Michigan state Senator and

Democratic leader Gretchen Whitmer, D-East Lansing, spoke in favor of the plan last week upon its introduction to iterate her support. “Study after study after study has emphasized the importance of a highly educated workforce in the economic vitality of any state in the 21st century,” said Whitmer, continuing on later to let her fellow senators know, “It’s not about whether Michigan can afford to do this, it’s whether we can afford not to.” According to the official website for

the Michigan 2020 plan “education is economic development” and Michigan’s path to economic revival lies in the establishment of a “knowledge economy” or an economy that relies on “intellectual capital.” The Michigan 2020 Plan plans to utilize many world class institutions of higher learning already present in the state of Michigan to make what the website calls “the single best investment a state can make in its job market ...”

Dan Nichols preparing food, as Jennifer Keener assists guests. Photo by Christina Stoutenburg

Page 7: Issue 60-10

Erie Square Gazette, Port Huron, MI7

Community / OpinionThursday Feb 23, 2012

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McManusDISTINGUISHED BUSINESS LECTURE SERIES

Guest lecturerJoe Vicari, President and CEO of Andiamo Restaurant Group

The Business of Fine Dining

Tuesday, March 27, 2012

7 p.m.

Madonna University | Franciscan Center36600 Schoolcraft Road, Livonia, MI 48150

PLEASE JOIN US FOR THIS INFORMATIVE, FREE LECTURE

R.S.V.P. at 734-432-5356 or [email protected]

Clay KimballWebmaster

Memes, memes everywhere! Lately the influx of memes has brought the concept to a mainstream light. Sites such as 9gag.com and Facebook allow for the majority of internet users to share laughs through common images. While the majority of the public may view these on Facebook and other social sites, let’s not forget the origin of these macros. It is debated as to which site copied the other, two sites have been deemed the originators of most current memes: Reddit and 4chan. 4chan is a very controversial “imageboard” known for its housing of anonymous internet activist

organizations and profane content. It is here that it is said that the worst of the internet spawns and the “hackers on steroids,” quoth Fox news, gather. Reddit, on the other hand, is a tamer link-board known for political activism and charity. Reddit divides in hundreds of smaller sub-reddits, each for individual interests. In these sub-reddits, specialized memes are created and recreated, such as Good Guy Greg and Condescending Willy Wonka. The two sites’ members are always at odds with each other over who started memes and who copies the other. Despite the differences, to an outside observer they are heralded as the prime source of hilarious images on the internet. If you have any questions for me, send them to eriesquare [email protected]. I may feature the answer to your question online or in a future issue.

Clay’s Chaos Column

In issue 60.9, article “Coast 2 coast: SC4 philosopher aims to build department,” Oana Suditu’s name was misspelled,

Correction Cornerand her country of origin was incorrect. Oana Suditu is from Romania. We apologize for the mistake.

Twana PinskeyEditor-in-Chief

• Saturday Feb. 25, 10 a.m.: Ice Fantasies Ice Show at McMorran Arena, Port Huron. Price for event is: adults $10, $6 students and senior citi-zens; $25 for on-ice table. For informa-

tion, call (810) 985-6166.

• Rabies Vac-cine Day at the Tractor Supply Com-pany 1400 32nd street Port Huron. Saturday Feb. 25 from 10 a.m. to noon. This event features rabies vaccines, 2012 dog licenses for St. Clair County dog owners. Cats

welcome. Cost is $25.00 for altered dog, $35.00 for unaltered dog, $15.00 for rabies vaccine only. Cash only. This event is sponsored by: Humane Soci-ety of St. Clair County/SNAP (Spay Neuter Adopt Protect) program. For more informa-tion call (810) 984-3835.

• Sunday, Feb. 26, author visit and book signing at the Atrium Café and Ice Cream Parlor 1519 Military St. Port Huron. St Clair County Commu-nity College alumnus, and author; Dr. Robert Coulter who wrote “Four Years, Four Months and Twenty-Three Days,” will visit at 10:30 a.m., signing copies of his book that will be available for sale.

Blue Water happenings

• Friday, March 2, Beatrice Thornton Art Exhibition at the SC4 Fine Arts Bldg. 323 Erie Street, Port Huron. Student art work from area middle schools and high schools.

• Saturday, March 3, American Wild West Exhibit at the Knowlton Ice Museum. 317 Grand River Ave., Port Huron, MI 48060. Hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For event informa-tion call: (810) 987-5441

• Sunday, March 4, Artist of the Month. Studio 1219’s Spiral Gallery pres-ents work by SC4 alumnus, Valerie Hostus from noon-5 p.m. at 1219 Military St., Port Huron, MI 48060. For informa-tion call (810) 984-2787.

Page 8: Issue 60-10

Erie Square Gazette, Port Huron, MI8 Thursday Feb 23, 2012

Phone: (810) 762-0461 or (866) [email protected]/statewide

FERRIS STATEUNIVERSITYPORT HURON

SpecializeFerris State University welcomes YOU to the nextchapter of YOUR life. If YOU have been waiting forthe right time to finish YOUR business degree or start working toward it, YOUR time is now. We inviteYOU to take advantage of the Ferris location righthere on YOUR campus and begin to find YOURplace in business.

Business Administration - Professional Track, B.S.If YOU have a specialized associate degree, such as business construction technology, legal assistance,retail fashion merchandising, or others, this is anexcellent program for YOU. It is also great if YOUhave an associate degree in business and would like to add technical or specialized training to YOURcredentials. Building upon a core of business courses,the program features a tight sequence of majorcourses; however, the program also provides theflexibility to specialize in an area YOU want.

International Tourism Specialization: Developedspecifically for the partnership with Lambton Collegeand St. Clair County Community College, this degreeis offered in Port Huron to build on the specialtycourse work from the Lambton and SC4 programs androunds out YOUR education with a strong core ofbusiness courses, plus four advanced business courses. Once YOU complete YOUR degree, YOU will havecombined YOUR occupational specialty knowledgewith YOUR business knowledge and be ready to serve in management and administrative positions in the hospitality and tourism industry.

YOUR career in Business Administrationbegins at Ferris State University.

Opinion

Tara Turpin Liberal arts Port Huron

“I think it’s a good idea. I won’t have to worry about getting

hit on my way to the Main Building.”

Twana PinskeyEditor-in-Chief

With the hectic schedule I have, it is not often I get to sit down and eat a good meal in the company of friends, followed by watching a good movie. Over the weekend, I watched brothers, Stephen and Alex Kendrick’s movie “Courageous.” This movie documented the lives of police officers that faced struggles relating to responsibilities, and sometimes the mistakes made as fathers. The Kendrick brothers also made the movies, “Facing the Giants” and “Fireproof.”

The common link for all three of these movies is the fact they has been labeled by Hollywood as “Christian movies” or “Faith-based” movies. It was refreshing to watch a movie presented in a way that showed real struggles faced by any parent that has doubts about what kind of a job they are doing raising their children. What was so refreshing was it was presented in a humorous and at times heart wrenching manner, without blood, gore, swearing and X-rated scenes. I guess I am getting fickle as I age. I find I don’t need all the trappings of a secular world movie to be entertained I find I can watch

a movie with a fast paced scene, my heart racing, and be entertained without scenes that have murder, swearing, blood and gore. Movie reviewer, Roger Moore of the Orlando Sentinel, labeled the movie as a “myopic, melodrama movie.” The movie did not fare well with other mainstream movie critics either. Web site, www. rottentomatoes .com slams the film as a “preach to the choir” film that only “faithful” would find interesting. For those of us who are parents, no matter what our spiritual beliefs or non-beliefs maybe, we all struggle with occasional doubts of how well we are parenting. This movie has a message for anyone, no matter what their beliefs are. Do we really need the trappings of a “Hollywood” movie to seek solace or validation that we are doing an ok job raising our kids?

T-birds tidbits Photo PollZachary PenzienProduction Editor

Liz whittemorePhoto Editor

How do you feel about the closing off Erie street?

Danielle Mertz UndeclaredPort Huron “I think it’s kind of stupid, lots of people use that street.”

Adrienne ErvinLiberal artsPort Huron

“I think it’s smart, people

drive crazy down that street.”