El Paisano, Volume XXXII, No. 7
Transcription
El Paisano, Volume XXXII, No. 7
Big split Page 5 Express CWC deadline The deadline for the 30th Annual Creative Writing Contest at MC is 5 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 15. The categories are short story, essay and poetry. Contestants may submit a maximum of four entries in each category. Any full-time or part-time student registered in English classes at MC at any time since Sept. 1, 2003, is eligible to compete. Exception: any past first-place winner is eligible only in a category in which that student has not won previously. Format requirements are strict and can be obtained in the Writing Lab, 232 LRC, 685-4561. Steak dinner raises funds for welders Phantom hits big screen Page 8 Page 5 El Paisano Volume XXXII, No. 7 The Student Newspaper of Midland College JobTrack takes off Student volunteers needed in Bosnia The Builders for Peace program in Bosnia is seeking college students to do a month of volunteer work in Bosnia this summer. Dates: June 7—11: Orientation in Sarajevo— visit historic sites and meet with community leaders and scholars. Morning lectures on the language and culture. Leave for Gracanica or Mostar on June 12. June 13 - July 8: Teach three levels of conversational English in Gracanica (northeast Bosnia) in a free summer school program for high school students. Edit our daily newspaper. Run a workshop on Youth Issues. No experience is necessary for any of these jobs. Afternoon classes for college credit may also be available. Or, volunteers may take part with Mostar university students in a seminar on “Reconciliation and Reconstruction” in the divided city of Mostar. Also, volunteers may perform reconstruction in Mostar, rebuilding historic sites damaged during the war. In addition to the above, visit various cultural sites, including the Sufi monastery at Blagaj, the medieval castle at Srebrenik, the neolitic site at Korica Han and the memorial site of the massacre at Srebrenica, where we will place a wreath as we have done in previous years. Optional. Spend an extra week at the end of the program in the beautiful walled town of Dubrovnik on the Adriatic Sea. Experience the melding of Italian and Slavic cultures on the coast. Housing. In Gracanica, students will live in a local inn or with local families. In Mostar, they will share one or two houses. For further information please contact: Professor Thomas Butler thomas.butler3@comcast.net, telephone 617- 661-5914. SIP offers ‘Lips’ The Students in Philanthropy Club fabulous “Sweet Lips” lollipops spring fund-raiser is now underway ... Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and your “Sweeties” will love these scrumptious lollipops. They come in an assortment of flavors. The lollipops are only $1each and all money raised will go directly to funding deserving nonprofit organizations during the SIP grantmaking activities this spring. To get your “Sweet Lips,” watch for the smiling SIP students carrying a bag full of lollipops or you may call Laura Walker at 685-4816. Managing test anxiety A “Managing Test Anxiety” workshop is scheduled at noon, Monday, Feb. 14 in the Roadrunner Room, Scharbauer Student Center. The workshop is offered by Dale Williams, MC counselor. Students are encouraged to attend the free workshop which will cover different strategies for handling test anxiety. For more information, contact Williams at 685-5598. Study Skills Dates for the spring Study Skills Seminars have been set. The first seminars are 6:30 – 8:30 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 9 and 1 – 3 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 10. Seminars are free and are held in the Roadrunner Room, Scharbauer Student Center. For more information, contact Sue Alford, 685-5525. February 4, 2005 Better late than never, winter finally hits Midland. Photo by Randy Rodriguez Cosmotology program here to provide options By Emily Green “Students can expect to learn all the instruction can be used outside of cosStaff Reporter information required to pass their metology. The former automotive and build- state board test plus more,” Fields “They are learning chemical reforing technology area in the Technical said. “We also have an advisory board mation, basic massage, working with Building now houses the cosmetology that will come in and teach advanced the public, personal care, and profesprogram that began this spring at techniques so that when students com- sional attitude,” he said. Midland College. “These skills can be used The program has been a work in outside the cosmetology field if progress, according to Michael students decide to concentrate Fields, cosmetology instructor. on another profession,” Fields “Beverly Prichard, cosmetology said. “They can work for movie program coordinator, started planstudios, television stations and ning for the program in 2001,” plastic surgeons. The career Fields said. opportunities are endless.” The goal of the cosmetology proThe courses offered during gram is to “help students receive the spring semester are fundatheir hours for their cosmetology mentals of cosmetology, introPhoto by Randy Rodriguez duction to the application of license,” Fields said. “They will earn a certificate from MC and then go Students will practice cosmotology a renovat- hair coloring, chemical refored area of the Technology Center. take their state board test. mation and manicuring. “Students are also offered the plete the program they will have trainClasses meet Monday thru Friday 8 chance to earn an associate’s degree,” ing in more then just the basics to pass a.m.-5 p.m. The program lasts three Fields said. “After a student com- their test. semesters: spring, summer and fall. pletes the cosmetology program they “Specialists from local salons and The cost is MC tuition, plus a fee for must complete their core courses to guest artists will come in,” Fields the book and kit. earn their associate’s degree.” said. “The students will get special “The price is a third compared to “So far, we have 11 students training by people specializing in other schools,” Fields said. enrolled in the program, but we have color, nail tech, make-up and facials.” Those interested in the cosmetology room for 25,” Fields said. Fields said he thinks the course program can contact (432) 685-6723. Massage students work toward state licensure By Rael Henson have ranged from 17 to 70 years old. other supplies. Staff Reporter The program attracts students from as With 300 clock hours required by Midland College massage therapy far away as Crane, Pecos, Big Spring, the state, 50 of which are the clinicals, students experienced the real work Coahoma and Lamesa. it takes about three or four months to world as they conducted clinical sescomplete the course, according to sions at the Advanced Technology Prichard. Center on Cuthbert for the last two Some of the required classes are weekends. health and hygiene, Swedish masThe students were able to practice sage techniques, business practice their skills by providing free masand ethics, anatomy and physiology. sages to MC staff, faculty and fellow After finishing the program, the stustudents. dents must apply to the state to take “It’s really kind of their first proa written test and a skills exam in fessional way of working with peoAustin. ple from outside,” said Beverly They receive a temporary permit Prichard, director of health sciences which allows them to charge for continuing education. “This is their massages, but they must take the first time to be able to work with exam within six months or re-apply people who are unknown to them.” Photo by Randy Rodriguez to test. MC tries to schedule the “It’s done very professionally,” Massage students earn credit by provid- course so that it ends near the exam Prichard said. “It’s really a nice ing free massages to faculty and staff. date. opportunity if you’ve never gotten a This allows everything to be fresh massage. You’re helping a student One 72-year-old woman wanted to for the students, explained Prichard, with their skills, because you critique do massage on her family, but she also though they also help students by that student. saw it as a way for her to achieve a doing refresher courses. “It really helps them and prepares success. The class meets on Tuesdays and them for going out in the real world,” Physically handicapped students Thursdays from 6 to 9:30 p.m. and Prichard said have taken it as a way to make some every other weekend from 8 a.m. to 6 The Massage Therapy program, money and, according to Prichard, p.m. enrolls an average of 24 students a they may have been some of the better “You have to be pretty dedicated,” year and has recorded about 200 stu- students. Prichard said. dent graduates so far. It’s one of the more expensive Even with all the time and effort Once they receive their certifica- classes, with a tuition of $1084 which involved, no one has ever dropped. tion, students can work in their own pays the instructors, who are massage “[The class] is done very profespractices or for larger companies such therapists in business for themselves. sionally so no one feels discomfort or as spas, hotels, chiropractors, gyms, The students are also encouraged to stressed.” Prichard said. “ We treat it sports teams, large corporations or purchase a massage table that will fit very professionally.” even cruise ships. their needs, since they take it with The program recently gained two Some students taking the program them after completing the course. new instructors, Melinda Smith and have been blind or in wheelchairs and There is also the cost of books and Cindy Dodson. By Randy Rodriguez Page Editor Midland College has implemented a new method for people of the community to obtain “real world” skills in a classroom setting—JobTrack. The purpose of this program is to let experienced workers –with quality educations—enter the workforce and fill the demands of the community by filling those key positions in local businesses. This program will include Business Systems Training and a Medical Assisting Program to students who are looking for “a quick way to acquire job skills needed for the indemand jobs right now,” said Elise Coombes, MC director of public relations. The Business Systems Training consists of a four-week certification program to train students in computer applications: Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, E-Learning, business writing skills, resume writing skills and business etiquette. These programs will convene at the beginning of each month. “This course is an excellent opportunity for individuals who have not had any experience working with computers,” said Gary Hines, business systems instructor. The Medical Assisting Program will allow successful students to acquire certificates in Phlebotomy, Nurse Aid and Medical Assisting— although, this program is still awaiting coordinating board approval. This seven-month course trains students for entry-level positions in the medical field. There are no prerequisites for the JobTrack classes. The purpose of JobTrack is to permit students to get the skills they need with a minimum of hassle. Students are not required to be a high school graduate, take placement testing such as the THEA, go through the enrollment process or even enroll for a full semester. For some students, the idea of enrolling in MC, taking the THEA test, proving they are a high school graduate and getting transcripts can be an intimidating process. This allows the students to enter this program with a modicum of difficulty, Coombes said. There will be some financial aid available for students in the programs. It begins with filling-out a Free Application For Federal Students Aid (FAFSA) and it will come back with a recommendation. MC is also working with American State Bank to get personal loans for the cost of the program. Medical Assisting students could qualify for federal assistance, assuming the program meets certain criteria. This will be the first time MC has developed any type of financial aid for non-credit students, according to Coombes. For those students who may not qualify for financial aid, the cost of enrolling in Business Systems Training is $840. For the Medical Assisting Program, the cost is expected to be in the area of $3500 to $4000. One of the main goals is to make JobTrack more accessible to everyone by creating a “front door,” Coombes said. This would allow students interested in these programs a central location to sign-up for classes without having to go through student services. “That’s why we have this at the ATC, so that a person looking for this type of training has some place to go,” Coombes said. Commentary Page 2 Editorial Every vote counts Tom Craddick, speaker of the Texas House of Representatives, recently sent questionnaires to many households in Texas. This letter to his constituents was a reminder that the 79th Legislature would convene in the Capitol to discuss issues that would affect citizens of Texas for two years. This letter also asked that these same constituents respond to the 21 questions posed on issues ranging from the use of “red-light” cameras to school vouchers to the proposition of a state income tax. But it is not the question of nonpartisan elections that should concern those involved in the democratic process, it is the questions that seem out of place in the questionnaire that raise eyebrows. Slipped between “Should Internet transactions be subject to sales tax” and “Do you support legislator’s efforts to change the way public school is financed” is a question that seems to be a hot-button issue with Democrats, Republicans and everyone in between: “Do you favor the death penalty?” This questionnaire has its deficiencies in several different aspects. The obvious is the voting box anomaly that accompanies the questions. The boxes do not match the questions; therefore this survey cannot be accurately studied. The more ambiguous deficiency is the subliminal method for the speaker to obtain information about the voter’s feelings about some of the more controversial issues of our day. While it is true that the people should decide matters such as the death penalty, abortion and tax increases on gasoline, magazines and gambling, but the devious attempt to acquire this information through, what seems to be, a harmless survey is a dirty pool by our elected officials. True, our government is more of a Republic than a Democracy. We appoint those who lead rather than govern ourselves, but our elected officials have to know what our stance is on the subjects important to everyone. Whether you stand to the right or left of any of these issues being discussed in the 79th Legislative session, your opinion is valid from the standpoint that we are all citizens of Texas. Craddick finishes his letter by saying “I look forward to hearing from you.” Let your voice be heard and write a letter, send a fax, give the speaker a call or just make an appointment to speak with him in person. Because the old adage stands true even today, “Your vote is the one that matters.” Quo Vadimus by Randy Rodriguez Sometimes life just gets in the way. I have heard this quoted to me since the day I was able to understand the English language. Have crueler words ever been spoken to a hapless child on the brink of insanity? It has been recently brought to my attention that I have used my column to exorcise some of my own personal demons. Life certainly has its quirks and chooses to exhibit them in a most peculiar way. I re-read my column about the government listening to my personal conversation on the telephone and the column about my disdain for Starbucks. I discovered that I have allowed my own personal feeling to interfere with the purpose of my column—and that is to bring to light an issue that concerns everyone or an injustice in the world. Hence, from this day forth, I will use the space I am given to shed a new perspective into the world that surrounds us all. The world that we see everyday and take for granted, and the world we do not see and still take for granted. In the spirit of this pledge, I have an issue that plagues each and every student on the Midland College campus. This has been overlooked each time I have passed it, so I am sure that it has been overlooked in general as well. The issue in question is: “where have all the flowers gone?” Stay with me. I am not an environmental fanatic obsessed with saving the rainforest or calling for better Environmental Protection Agency standards on emissions. I am simply wondering where the phrase “stop and smell the roses” came from and why I must search-out these said roses. I understand that the phrase is an allegory for taking the time to reflect on life’s bounty and to not get boggeddown with the inconsequential. But who has the time for that anymore? In the competitive get-to-the-top-by-any- means-necessary world of today, how can a reasonable person be asked to stop and take inventory of what they have accomplished? This is not to say that there are not people who can honestly say they have never been saddled with a self-righteous nature and can enjoy the occasional stroll in the park. But I am concerned with those who have only so long to achieve their life goals in order to have their country club membership in by their 28th birthday. I am also one of the maligned. I once had aspirations of being “set” by the time I was 27—although there are outside forces that prompted that date that I will discuss at a more appropriate time. I too was enticed by the comfort and stability that accompanied a $120,000 salary with fringe benefits. But it has been my experience that struggle is necessary in life in order to obtain the answer to the question that has been asked but never answered: “Why are we here?” I am in no way comparing myself to the great thinkers such as Aristotle, Socrates, Plato or Galileo, but I have found the answer for myself. We are here to maintain a cycle that can never be broken. We all are parts of a system that inevitably defines the nature of our existence by our name. This is a system that is based on the infallible truth that life is meant to be difficult, and there are no easy roads. There is no path least traveled or ultimate goal set before us at birth. We are the ones who must choose what our purpose is on Earth. Why are we here? We are here to spend our lives searching for that which is most familiar to us all. Whether that makes sense or is just the incoherent ramblings of an underdeveloped mind is for you to decide. But make that decision while searching for those unseen roses. I have yet to find them—but I know they are not at Starbucks. El Paisano The Student Newspaper of Midland College Editorial Staff: Ashton Baker, Michael Flax, Tim Garlitz Ruby Moore, Randy Rodriguez, Angie Wennerlind Reporters: Ryan Alexander Joe Aylor Bradley Bourke Nikki Brooks Raenell Diffie Mona Garcia Jessica Gonzales Emily Green Rael Henson Lyn Johnson Cory Lehman John Paul Martin Tonia Martindale Jason Rhode Kelley Ricker Teressa Thompson Photographers: Mona Garcia Jason Rhode Randy Rodriguez Cartoonist: Tommy Simmons Lab Instructor: Karen Lanier Adviser: Bob Templeton Comments and views expressed in El Paisano reflect the thoughts of individual writers and do not necessarily reflect the beliefs or opinions of other students, faculty members, administrative officers or the board of trustees. El Paisano is a member of the Texas Community College Press Association and the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association. The publication and its student staff members have won numerous statewide awards. MC Student Publications 3600 N. Garfield, AFA 185 Midland, Texas 79705 432-685-4768 email: studentpublications@midland.edu February 4, 2005 Question Why? by Ruby Moore Why do guys think it’s a compliment when they consider a girl to be “one of the guys?” I grew up with two brothers and their 20 million friends. So I really had 20 million brothers. Sometimes this was a good thing, but most of the time: not so good. Guy troubles are easier to deal with than girl worries. I like choices involving whether to eat pepperoni or Canadian bacon. Maybe even picking between Halo and Rainbow Six. It’s more perplexing to choose whether or not Susie should break up with Johnny for looking at Carol in a way that might make her think that he likes her even though he once said that she was the ugliest thing ever created and would never think about coming within two feet of her even if you paid him a million dollars, but he would really do that for money so Suzie shouldn’t trust him and should talk to Freddy instead because he told Donny that he thinks she’s really cute so should she wear the pink shirt with black stripes or the one with white trim? WHAT!?!?!? I choose pepperoni and Halo. I choose not wearing pink with black or white because I am an anti-pink person. I choose having brothers over sisters. But does that really mean that I want to be “one of the guys?” I don’t think so. Hanging out with the guys is fun. They do stupid stuff and, when I’m not joining in, I get to laugh. Most of them don’t worry about what clothes they’re going to wear or fixing their hair to go muddin’ so I fit right in. But on the other hand, there are times, at least once a year, that I want to go shopping, look at shoes and gripe about how dumb guys can be. I am still a member of the female population. Sure, being “one of the guys” is great. Most of my guy friends are pretty cute, some are considered “hot” by my female cohorts, and I know secrets about them that most girls would love to know. Secrets such as who they are interested in, what they did when they didn’t call last night and other things that I would be killed for revealing. However, being a female and maintaining my position of honor as one of the guys puts me in really difficult situations sometimes. I usually have to answer the “what do you think?” question after hearing who the new girlfriend is for the first time. Though I’m flattered that my opinion counts for something, it’s really hard for me to look at him and say, “I know things about her that you don’t know and wouldn’t want to know, but I can’t tell you because she’s my friend too, and she swore me to secrecy.” Even worse is waiting until they’ve been dating for a few months and then finding out that she’s cheating on him. How do you tell your best friend that his girlfriend isn’t right for him and why, without breaking his heart in the process? You can’t. He will get mad and not talk to you for a while. The pressure from the other side of the field is ludicrous. Girls have much more subtle ways of pumping for information that they know they aren’t going to get. Their trickery and deception isn’t quite as blunt as that of the guys. So at the same time that I’m answering the “should I call” question for the guy, I’m answering the “why did he call” question for the girl. Here’s a lesson I’ve learned: it’s next to impossible to be completely honest with both people, keep them satisfied with enough information and not break a vow of silence with either one of them. Why is it such a compliment to be “one of the guys?” You never have to worry about a boy breaking your heart because he will be severely disfigured. That’s more of a pain of hanging out with the guys than a plus. Is it because guys are so much better than girls to hang out with? Sometimes, but they are still guys and they still do guy stuff. I asked my friend once how he expected to get a girlfriend if he continued doing the things that he did in front of me and he told me that he didn’t do that stuff in front of girls. What am I, a monkey? The most likely reason that guys consider it complimentary to include a female as “one of the guys” is because that means they trust you. They know they can confide in you and it will stay between the two of you. So it’s a good thing if they think you’re one of the guys. Why? The Good, The Bad and The Ugly By Angie Wennerlind “For you created my innermost being, you knit me in my mother’s womb. I will praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” The month of January has come and gone, reminding me of three things. The good: it is a time for me to begin a new year, a blank page in the book of my life. The bad: it’s time for me to forget about all hopes of sleeping-in and begin another laborious semester of college. The ugly surfaces when I recall that January is the month of the historical Roe vs. Wade anniversary, the month where I look back on what the court decision has meant for our nation. Now, I’m not trying to preach. Heck, I’m doing everything I can to be sensitive about a subject as volatile as a pin-pulled grenade. I just realize that the truth is often swept under the rug, and being a journalist, I value nothing more highly than the truth. My desire in opening up this can of worms is to let the facts speak for those who can’t speak for themselves. Let’s start by defining life. According to Webster’s dictionary, something is alive when it “is in existence, operation and has the characteristics of life.” Would you consider having a heartbeat a “characteristic of life”? According to doctors, a fetus has a detectable heartbeat 18-25 days after its conception. I remember recently seeing an interview about a certain doctor’s practices. Consistently, the practitioner employed the words “specimen” and “tissue,” to define the “things” he aborted. He refused to admit the “specimens” were live beings. The same technique is utilized in medical anatomy labs when medical students dissect human cadavers. Students view their cadavers as objects in attempts to detach themselves and not become overly sentimental. They pretend that human heads and various body parts are simply made of wax—a morbid comparison but nonetheless a more soothing outlet for the mind. In the same way, when women are told the “specimen” living inside of them is merely “a wad of tissue,” it is easier for a woman to make the decision to abort. It’s no wonder that mothers feel a deep sense of remorse upon discovering they have aborted their unborn baby, as opposed to a nonliving vestige. Other food for thought? The suicide rate among women who have had an abortion is three times greater than that of the general suicide rate. It’s also true that women generally experience post-abortion depression amongst other symptoms, all of which have been medically defined as PostAbortion Syndrome. The statistics? Each year 1,500,000 babies are aborted. The waiting list for couples interested in adoption, however, is 2,000,000 couples long. This list includes couples willing to adopt handicapped children as well as children of different racial backgrounds. Sadly, only 50,000 babies are put up for adoption yearly. But don’t take my word for it. Research the statistics for yourself, and remember, these are just the facts; you decide what you want to do with them. Celebration of diversity Nation remembers dreams from past By Nikki Brooks Staff Reporter African Americans have struggled to become equal in a society where they are seen as different. Factors such as racism, hatred and segregation have influenced many people to stand up for their rights and pursue freedom. February is designated as Black History Month, during which celebrations, parades and marches commemorate the accomplishments of the black community. Americans have recognized black history since 1926. The celebration and study of black history is owed to Carter G. Woodson, the father of Black History. Woodson chose the second week of February because it marks the birthdays of two men who greatly influenced the black American population, Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln. “The right of every American to first-class citizenship is the most important issue of our time,” said Jackie Robinson, baseball player. Robison was signed to play for the Brooklyn Dodgers on April 15, 1947. He paved the way for black athletes to compete in professional sports. In the late 1950s to 1960s African Americans faced great turmoil and strife. Segregation caused them to be outcasts in almost every community in America. The color of their skin caused people to overlook who they really were. Boycotts, sit-ins and riots filled the streets showing that African Americans were not going to sit back and let themselves be stepped on. “Both tears and sweat are salty, but they render a different result. Tears will get you sympathy; sweat will get you change,” said Jesse Jackson, religious leader and civil and human rights activist. Black History Month celebrates the many influential people who paved the way for freedom and equality. Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on a bus in Montgomery, Alabama, triggering the desegregation of public transportation. Martin Luther King Jr. was one of the leaders of the Civil Rights Movement. King rallied for civil rights and equality. He fought for freedom so every African American in the United States could be free from inequality. He struggled for racial justice in America and was an advocate for nonviolent protest. “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere,” King said. Brown vs. The Board of Education in Topeka, Kansas desegregated schools in America in 1954. Black children were allowed to go to school with white children for the first time. This shift in social ideology helped equality spread throughout the United States during times of racism and segregation. “Hold fast to dreams, for if dreams die, life is a broken winged bird that cannot fly,” said Langston Hughes, writer and poet. Black History Month is celebrated to show the power of what only a few people can do to change the outcome of history. Many organizations celebrate during this month to show that they did overcome the pain of inequality and hatred for so many years. News February 4, 2005 Page 3 Two MC professors honored for excellence in teaching From staff reports Professor of welding technology Dan Ledbetter and assistant professor of English Laura McKenzie were the recipients of Midland College’s annual Teaching Excellence Awards presented in a Jan. 13 awards ceremony. The Teaching Excellence Awards honor two outstanding faculty members from MC each year. The award carries with it a cash honorarium, an individual plaque and a permanent listing on a plaque displayed in the Pevehouse Admin-istration Building. The winners also receive MC National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) awards and will receive funding to attend the NISOD convention in May. Ledbetter has been a welding instructor at MC since 1999. He has a bachelor of science degree from North Texas State University (now the University of North Texas) and a master of science degree from East Texas State University (now Texas A&M University-Commerce). He was nominated for the award because of his “extraordinary patience Ledbetter in support of his students. Ledbetter is a member of the American Welding Society and the Texas Community College Teachers Association. His community service activities include: teaching Sunday School, volunteering for building projects for the Salvation Army; working with fifth grade students from local independent school districts on the “If I Had A Hammer” program and teaching in MC’s continuing education program. He worked on the original committee to develop plans for MC’s Advanced Technology Center, has served on the MC curriculum committee, participates in career days at local junior high schools and works on different MC construction projects. He has attended numerous seminars and courses to update his career and teaching skills. “All students are able to learn and improve,” Ledbetter said. “All students, however, do not learn through the same sort of experiences. It is my job to find both the way each student learns best and to provide the most beneficial experience,” he said. “Most students crave new knowledge and skills … they must be given special attention through methods that encourage rather than threaten. That’s my job,” Ledbetter said. Laura McKenzie has been an adjunct MC English instructor in Ft. Stockton since 1984 and a full-time instructor at MC’s Williams Regional Technical Center (WRTTC) since 2001. She received her bachelor of arts degree from Eastern New Mexico University and master of arts degree from the University of Texas of the McKenzie Permian Basin. She has post-graduate hours from Sul Ross State University, the University of Dallas, the Dallas Institute for the Humanities and the University of Texas at Dallas. McKenzie is pursuing a Ph.D. in humanities from the University of Texas at Dallas. She has been president of the Rotary Club and is a driving force in the Ft. Stockton Community Theater. She worked to design, promote and implement the WRTTC “Dollars for Scholars” campaign that successfully raised more than $30,000 for WRTTC students. A co-worker praised her as “a woman of tremendous integrity, who has a strong commitment to her students. She not only talks the talk, she walks the walk.” McKenzie writes that her teaching philosophy is simple: “I want to empower my students by giving them the tools to realize and fulfill their potential; I want to open their minds to the richness of their own world and culture, as well as the world beyond; I want to teach them to express themselves with clarity and confidence.” Finalists for the Teaching Excellence Awards were Vocational Nursing Instructor Linda Jordan, Associate Degree Nursing Program Assistant Professor Lea Keesee, Fire Protection Program Director Marion “Ollie” Oliver, Geology Instructor Fred Wetendorf, Biology Instructor Lisa Welch, Reading/English Instructor Lynda Webb, English Instructor Mary Williams and Art Instructor Carol Bailey. Boot Camp classes aimed to curb student anxiety By Lyn Johnson Staff Reporter The responsibility of the college search is often overwhelming. However, the MC Continuing Education Department plans to lessen concerns for new college students this month with the introduction of Boot Camp classes. The program is designed to help familiarize students with the college experience. According to Susan Hannon, continuing education coordinator, MC has already worked for student awareness through a series of college survival nights and parent nights held this school year, but the Boot Camp program will provide for a more extensive study set in a classroom environment. The program is composed of four classes titled: choosing a college to attend, conducting a scholarship search, writing college and scholarship essays and find the career or major that is right for you. Each course will be led by an expert in its field and will allow students to engage weekly in beneficial discussions and exercises that will help them gain confidence and progress in their college search. The program targets high school juniors and students who will be applying to college in the near future. “We want to provoke students to think about their future and look beyond the realm of the high school classroom,” Hannon said. She said she has already publicized the program through the Greenwood and Midland Independent School Districts, Midland Christian School and Trinity School. Alfredo Chaparro, MC director of continuing education, was also scheduled to introduce the classes at a Lee PTA meeting and a parent night and will promote the classes via Channel 7 at 5 p.m., Feb. 7. Boot Camp will prove a resource to MCLite Program equips for success By Tim Garlitz Page Editor For students who are new to the college experience, the MCLite (Midland College Learning Initiative To Excel) program is designed to equip students for success at the collegiate level. MCLite, which is in its second semester of operation, consists primarily of a two-hour course that meets twice a week from 12:30-1:20 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. MCLite also provides students with an academic coach who aids the students in their study habits over the course of a semester. “One of the key elements of MCLite that we try to stress with this program is that you can be successful,” said Jody Oakes, currently the primary tutor for MCLite as well as one of the facilitators of the program. “In this course, we’re introducing topics that we feel will help the students learn college level study strategies,” Oakes said. The class itself is taught by Oakes with assistance from others close to the student body. “Jan (Reed, director of student activities) and I are teaching the course; last semester it was Bob (Haines, dean of enrollment management) and I,” Oakes said. “I like helping students become more successful, and I like getting to know the students in any way I can, and MCLite gives me that opportunity,” said Reed, who acts as a general advisor to the students in the program. In addition to the regular tutors or the course, MCLite also brings in professors and those involved in administration as guest speakers. They generally speak on issues pertaining to the classes that the students are taking. The class is divided among four academic coaches who spend one-on-one time once a week mentoring the students and teaching them the study skills necessary to excel in their particular classes. The students adjust their method of study based on what classes they take and how their professors assign homework. MCLite is under the supervision of four facilitators including: Oakes; Haines; Peggy Wood, coordinator of developmental studies and James Fuller, assistant coordinator of developmental studies. Information on MCLite can be found by contacting Oakes at 685-5542. MC’s first four-year degree BAT to debut in fall ‘05 By Ruby Moore Page Editor The Fall 2005 semester will mark the beginning of a new era for Midland College. MC has been chosen to be one of three community colleges in Texas that will be accredited to award a Bachelor of Applied Technology degree in technology management. According to the MC website, the Bachelor of Applied Technology (BAT) program will allow students participating in the program to pursue a career as a supervisor, manager or executive in business, industry and government. The program is specific for students who have completed their Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in the specialty fields of legal assistant, law enforcement, business systems and emergency medical services. “As excited as we are about the new program, it is important to acknowledge that this is simply an additional offering which will benefit our students, providing them a local opportunity to expand their AAS degree to the bachelor level,” said David Daniel, MC president. To MC students this program means options. They will now have the option of completing a four-year degree without leaving Midland. “It’s all about choices; now MC will provide those choices,” said Michael Santonino, associate professor and lead faculty member. According to Santonino, a total of 127 semester credit hours will be needed to complete the BAT program. A minimum of 36 hours have to be dedicated to one of the four specialty fields, which include legal assistant, emergency medical services, business systems and law enforcement. An additional 49 hours must be upper-level courses in technology management. It has taken two years for the dream of Daniel, MC administrators and faculty and a committee of community members to become a reality. One key player in making this program come to life is Speaker of the Texas House of Representatives Tom Craddick. At the end of the 78th legislative session Craddick pushed for an amendment to Senate Bill 286. The amendment authorized three Texas Community Colleges to pilot the baccalaureate program in applied science and applied technology. Also included in the program are Brazosport College in Brazosport and South Texas Community College in McAllen.At the time, the Technology Management program is the only four-year degree being offered at MC. However, Santonino said the plan is to add additional programs in the future. Students interested in applying for the BAT program can contact Nancy Hart, director of admissions for the BAT Program at 685-4704 or they can apply online by following the links at www.midland.edu. future college students by taking information that is normally skimmed over in one night and spreading it out over several weekly courses. The classes are geared to dissolve intimidation and procrastination. “In high school, students feel pressed with deadlines and decisions they have to make, but the Boot Camp will alleviate some of the stress as it helps them to make informed decisions,” Hannon said. Latisha Williams, MC director of financial aid, will teach the scholarship class. She said she knows personally about the difficulties of college funding. With expanding student access, Williams said she feels that the Boot Camp program will help students to use their resources effectively. “You get out what you put in,” she said. “Hopefully, the classroom environment will encourage students to be involved. “Since it will just be the students, they might not be afraid to ask questions.” The first class will begin on Monday, Feb. 7, and courses will be offered through April. The cost for one class is $29. More information is available from Chapparo at 685-4723, and registration is processed at 685-4518. Happy Valentine’s Day from El Paisano staff News Page 4 February 4, 2005 Voices of Giving Conference develops network By Ruby Moore Page Editor Midland is a caring and giving town. West Texas is a caring and giving region. America is a caring and giving country. These are the three things that David Smith, executive director for the Abell-Hanger Foundation, emphasized in the welcome speech he delivered at the Voices of Giving Conference, held Saturday, Jan. 22, for the Students in Philanthropy (SIP) groups at the Advanced Technology Center. “The purpose [of the conference] was to bring each group together to develop a network outside of the individual programs,” Smith said. “We also wanted to provide specialized training in an efficient way.” Students from across the Permian G.I Bill helps many veterans attend MC By Cory Lehman Staff Reporter The Montgomery G.I. Bill helps military service men and women to begin a second career while still being able to take care of their families or work part-time, according to Bebe Glasgow, the certifying official for the VA programat Midland College. The G.I. Bill provides help with living expenses for service men and women while they attend school after they have been honorably discharged from the service. The bill was designed to help members of the Armed Forces re-enter civilian life and give them the opportunity to receive a higher education. “It pays them roughly a $1,000 a month; that is to help them so they don't have to work full time and can concentrate more on their school,” Glasgow said. “It is a really wonderful benefit for them, and of course they have earned it in my opinion,” Glascow said. The amount given to the veterans is subject to change. They are paid proportionately for that number of hours in which they are enrolled, Glasgow said. To obtain the benefits of the G.I. Bill, $100 per month is taken from the service person’s pay unless the person declines to participate in the program. As of last semester, there were 133 students attending MC on the G.I. Bill. The number of men attending MC on the G.I. Bill is much larger; only 20 percent are women, Glasgow said. After the 9/11 tragedy, the number of students attending MC on the G.I. Bill “about doubled,” Glasgow said. Mary Gowan spent four years on active duty in the Navy and two years in the reserve. She now attends MC on the G.I. Bill and is majoring in business administration. Married with two children, Gowan said she is willing to sacrifice time spent with her family to serve her country. “I would go back and fight for my country,” she said. “You give $100 per month from the bill, and it helps you go to college, and you better your life. There are great benefits from it,” Gowan added. Veterans are a different kind of student who seem more serious about their education. They have families and jobs, and they know where they are going in life, Glasgow said. “I like to get to know them, they all have come from varied backgrounds and all have had different experiences in the service from all branches, men and women alike,” Glasgow said. The G. I. Bill first came to be in 1944 when President Franklin Roosevelt signed what is known as the G.I. Bill of Rights. This law has made it possible for the investment of billions of dollars for the education and the training of millions of veterans. The veterans have 10 years to use the G.I. Bill and then they are paid 36 months of entitlement. To draw the full benefit of the G.I. Bill, the service person must have served for three years. Many have served longer. Carl Campanero served his country for 20 years and is now going through the radiography program at MC. Appreciative of the G.I. Bill, Campanero said, “It’s nice to be able to go to school, nice to have the check come in because it frees up time. It allows you to work part time and allows you to get by and work around your school schedule.” Locals experience ‘terror’ while in nation’s capital By Bradley Bourke Staff Reporter David Golden, orchestra director for Permian High School, said he came face-to-face with terror at the White House during his recent visit to the nation’s capital. Permian High School’s Satin String’s were invited to perform at the Presidential Inauguration in Washington, D.C. This is the third time in the past 10 years the local high school group has been invited. The group had been scheduled to take a tour of the White House the second day of its trip. Trying to keep up with their busy touring schedule, and being caught in traffic, the tour guide suggested that Golden get out of the van and walk the remaining distance to inform the White House officials that the orchestra would be arriving soon. So, Golden jumped off the bus and headed toward the White House. He ran into two secret service men at Pennsylvania and fiftheenth street. He explained to them that his group had a tour of the White House scheduled. They told him to take the next road, one block down. The cause of the delay, according to the secret service, was that a man had filled a van up with gas and was threatening to blow it up in front of the White House. His wife had taken their kids, and he wanted custody, but instead made himself a “homeland terrorist.” It ended up backing traffic for 12 blocks and was the reason that there were so many problems, Golden said. The White House tour got cancelled. So, for the third inauguration in a row, Satin Strings failed to see the inside of the White House. After their escapade with the White House and a front row view of terror in the capital, they decided to spend the rest of the day at the Smithsonian Institute, which Golden said was one of the highlights of the trip. The next day, after touring the Holocaust Museum, they went to dinner before going to play at the Fairfax. At dinner they got a call from Midland’s own Congressman Mike Conaway who told them that he had scored some tickets to the inauguration. Up until then they didn’t have any. Early the next morning, Tony Guinn, chaperone for Satin Strings, rode the subway to Mike Conaway’s office, then to the ceremony with the tickets to meet the kids there and got there in time to view the inauguration from right behind the reflecting pool. After the inaugural ceremony the group of 55 played at six inaugural balls for more than 30,000 people. They arrived at the balls in enough time to change into their tuxedos and tune up, just as President George W. Bush arrived. Before they began performing, it had seemed as if the crowd was thinning. But as the group from Bush’s home state was playing, they gathered quite a crowd. Among the crowd were some celebrities. As if coming face-to-face with homeland terror wasn’t enough, they came face-to-face with television personality Tom Green, of the Tom Green Show, who said nothing but gave them a smile of satisfaction. Television personality Ben Stein, of Win Ben Stein’s Money, also stopped and took a picture of a cello player for the group. Golden said, “The highlight of the trip was the phenomenal response that the group got from the audience at the balls when they performed.” Visit SatinStrings.com for more details. Basin representing SIP and to ask quesprograms from Midland tions about the College, University of o rg a n i z a t i o n s Texas of the Permian they are fundBasin, Odessa College, ing. Midland High School “When you and Lee High School write a grant gathered to learn about you have to reading financial statewrite expected ments, board developresults and you ment and the procedures guys want to for completing a sucmake sure they cessful site visit to are achieving potential grantee agenthose results,” cies. Wetendorf said. Partnered with the The day Abell-Hanger Founended with a Photo courtesy of Laura Walker dation was the panel of nonNonprofit Management Lael Cordes Pitts, Cindy Benson, Kelly Ives and Sandy profit executive Center of the Permian Tisdale served as panelists at the gathering. directors sharing Basin who supplied the their experispeakers and materials for the stu- account of all income and to make ences in the field with the students. sure it is allocated to appropriate secdents. “Everyone has something to give Mark Palmer, associate director for tions of the budget. and through this field you find out Hotchkiss emphasized that “you what you can give back,” said Cindy the Nonprofit Management Center, walked students through a budget and can’t ask for money until you’ve Benson, executive director of United other financial statements that they given money.” Way. It is much easier to get someone to might encounter when reviewing a The entire panel agreed that the support a program when the donor main thing they hoped students grant request. He told students that since more knows the requestor has already given learned from the workshops and the than 400 nonprofits exist in Midland to the program, she said. speakers was that working for a nonOnce a year, SIP members visit the profit requires dedication and a belief County, it is important that the public knows what those organizations are agencies to see how that nonprofit in the mission of the program. works. doing and holds them accountable. It is rewarding experience that conThe Maverick Players assisted stantly reminds you that “it’s worth it “If [nonprofit organizations] are not faithfully managing their dollars, Cookie Wetendorf, director of the when you see that [the people you they’ve broken their trust with the Nonprofit Management Center, by help] have a chance because of what acting out a role-play to show stucommunity,” Palmer said. you do,” Benson said. Sharla Hotchkiss, training consult- dents how to complete a successful Since the inception of the SIP proant for the Nonprofit Management site-visit. gram, more than $400,000 has been “The best way to educate yourself Center, explained why it is important awarded in scholarship money to stuthat a nonprofit have a good board of as funders is to have a face-to-face dents in all seven programs. directors and what its responsibilities meeting with [the agencies],” Those students have raised more Wetendorf said. were as a board. The Maverick Players performed than $18,000 to be matched by the Students learned that it is the board’s duty to make sure the agency two skits, one good site visit and one Abell-Hanger Foundation. is staying on track with its mission bad site visit, to show the students More than $270,000 has been how important it is to be prepared to granted to nonprofit organizations in and purpose. Another responsibility is to keep an answer questions from the grantee Midland and Odessa. Childcare program serves community at two facilities By Ashton Baker Page Editor For those students who wander around campus, going from one class to another, there are certain areas of the campus that we may not notice. Allow me to introduce the Helen L. Greathouse Children’s Center, founded in 1985, and located on the northeast side of the campus. The facility is primarily used as a daycare center open to Midland College faculty and students, as well as members of the community. The overall goal of the Children’s Center is to enhance the growth and development of each child to his/her greatest potential, said Rita Stotts, director of child development. “We take pride in our facility— both its teachers and the curriculum that are taught to the children who attend,” Stotts said. “We strive for excellence in every aspect of our program. Every curriculum is developmentally appropriate for each child,” Stotts said The center is licensed by the Texas Department of Protective and Regulatory Services for 52 children ages two through five years. They also maintain a balance between children of college and noncollege families, as well as children of different social, cultural and economic backgrounds, gender and age. The center is the only daycare center accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children in the Permian Basin, according to Stotts. However, the Greathouse Center is not the only MC Child Care Center in Midland. MC and Manor Park, Inc. have collaborated efforts to create the MC Child Care Center at Manor Park, Inc., located on West Loop 250. The center is licensed for 42 children ages three months to five years. Tracy Roome, coordinator of child development at MP, Inc., said the center’s primary service function is met by providing a high-quality child care program to the employees of MP, Inc., the grand/great grandchildren of its residents, as well as the children of MC students, faculty and the community. Literature provided by the Child The Dollye Neal Chapel, located on the grounds of the Midland College campus is open for private meditation and reflection, 7 a.m. - 7 p.m., Monday through Sunday. Also, the Chapel is available for weddings and small group meetings. If you would like more information visit the website at www.midland.edu/chapel or email us at dollyenealchapel@midland.edu. You may also call the Chapel Director at 685-4770. Care Center acknowledges that it has been established in support of the Eden philosophy, which states that both Elder adults and children benefit from social and cognitive interactions. “MP is a wonderful place,” Roome said. “It is much like a small community where everyone cares about their neighbor. The staff is well trained and they truly care for the residents and their needs. And the children have been the icing on the cake. They are loved and cherished by the staff and residents alike.” Both centers provide instructional lab support for child development, psychology, health science and other related courses to meet college and high school students’ educational goals, and have been recognized as 4star providers by Child Care Management Services. More information about enrollment at either center or about the MC Early Childhood Development program is available through Stotts at (432) 6854574. Experienced Tax Preparer Taxes done starting at $20. E-filing available. Will pick up, if necessary. Free pen with every return. Call 694-0158 any time. Also, bookkeeping and notary services. Entertainment February 4, 2005 Page 5 Movie Reviews New year brings fresh mix to local theaters By Raenell Diffie Staff Reporter Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events I made the grave mistake of walking into the theater thinking that I would shortly be watching Jim Carrey’s version of children’s entertainment. This movie was by no means just for the kids. Directed by Brad Silberling, this film tells the story of three newly orphaned, but extraordinary children as they search for a new place to call home and uncover the mystery surrounding the death of their parents. The film has a larger than life setting, and in that setting lives even larger characters. The world itself has the style and feel of the 19th Century, but has all the handiness of modern day life such as car phones and convenience stores. As for the characters you have the genius orphans, the slimy Count Olaf, the paranoid Aunt Josephine, and the incompetent Mr. Poe, all of whom are made-up by a star-studded cast with a few outrageous cameos thrown in. The story was not the least bit predictable, but it kept one entertained and occasionally on the edge of their seat just the same. I dare say I might have even jumped out of it. The dark feel of the film coincided with the storyline wonderfully. It was nice to see that it wasn’t bright and light-hearted just for the sake of making it a kids’ film. It held a good balance between gloom and doom and still managed to have a happy ending. This film is one to see, and I can’t wait to see if there will be a sequel. Meet the Fockers The name says it all. The sequel to Meet the Parents, this film started out just as stupid and gross as it’s prede- cessor, but slowly and surely the undeniable talents of two of the world’s greatest actors shown through all the muck to reveal a touching, yet silly, human story. In the first film Greg had the task of meeting his girlfriend’s parents, played by Robert DeNiro and Blythe Danner, and getting their blessing for his proposal. Once that has been attained, it was time for the two emerging families to meet. Introducing Dustin Hoffman and Barbara Strisand as Mr. and Mrs. Focker. These two could not have done a more hilarious and outright phenomenal job playing these two hippy, heartening and horny parents. They definitely stole the show. Take this combination of dueling parental units, mix-in a pregnant girlfriend, and toss with an unknown love child and you have the ingredients of a moderately good film. Take Ten Top 10 Worst Valentine’s Day gifts 10. Deodorant 4. A dead squirrel 9. A fish tank 8. Low-Carb, no-sugar chocolate 7. An Anatomy and Physiology textbook 6. An Ab-Lounge and/or gym membership 5. A smoothie, courtesy of Fear Factor 3. A letter saying you have been chosen to appear on Extreme Makeover 2. A thesaurus authored by Paris Hilton (that’s hot) 1. Voice lessons from Ashlee Simpson The Hot Spot with Ashton Baker I once heard a quote that went a little something like this: “A New York minute is nothing compared to a week in Hollywood.” I never understood exactly what that quote meant until I actually began paying attention to the entertainment industry. It’s amazing how often things change. Now that we’ve all had the winter break to recover, allow me to provide some factoids to fuel your conversation with a complete stranger while standing in line for coffee. First things first — probably the biggest entertainment news since they first got married in July 2000: the surprising split of Hollywood power couple Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston. I will admit when I first found out, I almost hit the floor. There have been reports that their split was fueled by her want to establish a movie career and his need for a family, as well as the infamous rumors that Pitt and Angelina Jolie had a heated affair on the set of their upcoming flick Mr. And Mrs. Smith, out in June. The couple released a statement on Jan. 7 announcing their split as “the result of much thoughtful consideration.” But even the most observed split in Hollywood couldn’t hold them back from their prominent careers. Since the announcement, Pitt has been to Tokyo and back for the premiere of his blockbuster Ocean’s 12 and volunteered his time for an NBC telethon Jan. 15 that raised more than $18 million for victims affected by the tsunami that hit parts of Asia on Dec 26, 2004. Aniston has since begun filming her third film in a row, titled Friends With Money. The couple has not yet filed for divorce; the split is simply a chance to see where their relationship is going, according to People magazine. In other news, one of the most glamorous and celebrated nights in Hollywood has come and gone: the 62nd Annual Golden Globe Awards were held on Jan. 16. The Aviator, featuring Leonardo DiCaprio and Million Dollar Baby, directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Hilary Swank, were among the nights biggest winners. Also, a favorite among the Hollywood Foreign Press Association was ABC’s new hit series Desperate Housewives. The show’s ultimate success has been called “the most successful spin-off in the success of primetime” by critics who usually despise sitcoms. Now that the Globes are out of the way, the race for the Oscars has begun. The nominees were announced on Jan. 25. The Aviator claimed 11 nominations, including best picture. Million Dollar Baby and Finding Neverland tied for second with seven nominations each. Ray, starring Jamie Foxx came in third with a total of five nominations. Others that received acclaim include Hotel Rwanda, Sideways and Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind. The ceremony will take place Sunday, Feb. 27 on ABC. In addition to the mounds of award ceremonyies taking place this season, proposals and weddings have been in full swing. As a very merry Christmas gift, Jude Law proposed to girlfriend Sienna Miller with a gold ring featuring nine diamonds set in platinum. They have yet to set a date, but the couple has been described by many as “very in love and looking forward to their future together.” An unidentified source ratted out the secret nuptials between Enrique Iglesias and Anna Kournikova over the holiday season, confirming what tabloids had suspected all along. Details of the ceremony have yet to be released, but leave it to the tabloid media to get those details, down to the color they choose for their wedding napkins. And finally, the Donald: Mr. Trump wed his long-time fiancée Melania Knauss in a lavish ceremony on Jan. 22 at Trump’s newly unveiled Mar-A-Lago Estate and Club in Palm Beach, Florida. A-listers to attend included Don King, Kelly Ripa, Regis Philbin, Barbara Walters and former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani. Knauss’ gown, designed especially for her by John Galliano of Christian Diorthat reportedly cost around $100,000, was made with more than 300 feet of satin and weighed 50 pounds. But that’s nothing compared to her $1.5 million engagement ring that would put the cost of a palace to shame. We might have to add an eighth wonder to the world. If you are a fan of this type of mindless comedy, this film is at the top of its genre. It can hit you with the slapstick, make you laugh at the tactless humor and still be pulling at the old heartstrings. Elektra It’s no secret that Jennifer Garner kicks butt, but now she’s got a pintsized black belt-wearing hottie following at her heals. In this latest comic book turned silver screen adventure, Garner plays the title role of Elektra, a warrior brought back to life only to become an assassin so that she might ultimately learn to fight for good. Irony doesn’t even begin to describe it. Motherless herself, Garner becomes the matriarchal figure for one gifted young girl known as “the treasure.” She must teach her as well as protect her from supernatural villains who are trying to kill them both. Yes, the dialogue was a bit cliché and the script wasn’t quite quality literature, but this was an action film based on a comic book - there’s only so much the creators could do. The really bad news is that this was just another in an ever-growing list of comic book films and it offered no great innovations to make it stand out from all the others. It’s only true, redeeming quality was Garner’s silk, crimson superhero costume which I’m sure enticed more than one heterosexual male into the theater. Her junior kick-butt co-part wasn’t quite as wardrobe worthy, but maybe she’ll be luckier in the sequel. I would recommend this film because, although it is mediocre overall, I would never deprive anyone the opportunity to see a female drop kick the bad guy. And who better to do it than the reigning queen of karate. Sports Page 6 Sport Shorts Askew signs with MC Midland High catcher Ali Askew signed a letter of intent to play softball at MC. Askew, who is a three-year softball letter winner, hit .228 last season for the Lady Bulldogs and was a first-team 3-5 All-district selection. Keiffer to play at MC Lee pitcher-first baseman Barry Keiffer signed to play for MC starting next season. Keiffer, a left-handed pitcher, has played with the Lee varsity squad for two seasons and is returning for his senior year this February. As a pitcher last season, Keiffer posted an 8-1 record. Keiffer was named to the AllDistrict 3-5A first team as a first baseman. He hit .429 in district and led the Rebels with 13 RBIs in 12 district games. Keiffer will reportedly be used primarily as a pitcher at MC. Spring Sports It’s time to support MC’s other spring sports. Yes, basketball is still in full swing and will be through March. The baseball team starts its season on Feb. 5. The team and coaches are looking forward to another good season. Most home games are played at Christensen Stadium and are free to students with a college I.D. See page 7 of this issue for a schedule and baseball player bios. The softball team began play on Jan. 3. The next issue of El Paisano will offer bios of the softball players. For more information on any MC athletic teams, go to Chap Athletics at www.midland.edu. POLICY NOTIFICATION It is the policy of Midland College to provide equal opportunities without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, or veteran status in its educational programs and activities. This includes, but is not limited to, admissions, educational services, financial aid, housing, and employment. Midland College is a public community college, which provides university parallel, occupational/technical, general education, community services and student developmental services programs. Services are available for those with limited English proficiency to assist them in securing access to all programs and activities. Inquiries concerning application of this policy may be referred to Mary Lou Blakeney; Coordinator of Title IX, and Section 504 responsibilities. NOTIFICACIÓN DEL CURSO DE ACCIÓN Es el curso de acción de Midland College proveer oportunidades iguales en sus programas educacionales y en sus actividades sin consideración a raza, color, origen nacional, sexo, edad, deshabilidad física o clasificación de veterano. Este curso de acción incluye, pero se limita a, las admisiones, los servicios educacionales, la ayuda financiera, la ayuda para alojamiento, y empleo. Midland College es una escuela pública de la comunidad que provee los programas que son paralelos a los programas universitarios, ocupacionales y técnicos, programas de educación general, de servicios para la comunidad y de programas de servicio para el desarrollo estudiantil. Los servicios les son disponibles a los que tienen habilidad limitada en inglés para que ellos tengan acceso a todos los programas y actividades de la escuela. Las preguntas relacionadas a la aplicación de las acciones de Midland College pueden referirse a Mary Lou Blakeney, Coordinadora del Título IX, y de las responsabilidades de la Sección 504. MIDLAND COLLEGE 3600 NORTH GARFIELD MIDLAND, TEXAS 79705 432-685-4534 02/06/05 February 4, 2005 Chaps move into first place in WJCAC By Mona Garcia Staff Reporter The Jan. 31 game against Frank Phillips College put the MC Chaps in the number one spot in the Western Junior College Athletic Conference (WJCAC) with a winning score of 76-65. “We didn’t play our best but I think it just came down to who wanted it more,” said J.D. Lewis, who was one of the top scorers of the night with 18 points. All night it was to close of a game as the Chaps went into the locker room at the half behind by one point with a score of 32-31. It seemed to stay close the whole night until MC started beating the Plainsman by no less than nine points. “Our game was sloppy but I thought our effort was there on defense; we played hard and our guys did their best,” Coach Grant McCasland said. Other leading players in the game against the Plainsman were Tristan Martin with 17 points, Ivory Clark with 11 points and Matt Martin added 10. The MC Chaps had a close victory when they beat New Mexico Junior College on Jan. 27 by only five points with a score of 79-74. This game put MC in a three-way tie with Frank Phillips and Howard College for second place in the WJCAC. Clark led the Chaps with a game high of 20 points, Lewis and Arturas Valeika each had 16 points, and Alonzo Hinds added 10 points to the Chaps victory. It was an interesting game when the MC Chaps lost to South Plains College 80-65 on Jan. 24 in a WJCAC game. South Plains took an early lead of 19-3 and even though MC tried to bring the gap closer with a score of 34-22 at halftime, but it just wasn’t enough. The leading Chaps were Hinds with 16 points and Clark with eight rebounds. It was a great win on Jan. 20 for MC with a score of 93-67, as they took on rival Odessa College in their first home game of the WJCAC. MC scored 14 of the first 16 points and took an early lead to scare the Photo by Randy Rodriguez MC’s J.D. Lewis attempts to pass around a Frank Phillips player during Monday night’s game. Wranglers and it worked until the Wranglers brought the lead down 2615, but MC brought the lead up 43-31 at halftime. After that OC did not get close to bringing MC’s lead back down. Leading the Chaps to beat OC was Lewis with a team-high of 23 points, Hinds with 20 points; Clark with 17 points along with nine rebounds and eight blocked shots and Martin with 17 points. Lady Chaps begin new year with high spirits By Jessica Gonzales Staff Reporter “Man, hold up! Hold Up! Lady Chaps got this game sew’d up!” was the cry of the Lady Chaparrals as they huddled together at Chap Center. The Lady Chaps played their fourth conference game against Frank Phillips College Jan. 31. The women of Midland College won their second straight game in conference play at Chap Center with a final score of 85-73. Irma Kmitaite, Britney DavisWhite and Rachel Brazell were the leading scorers with 23, 13 and 20 points, respectively. MC finished with 19 personal fouls and 14 assists. “We really stepped out there against FPC,” said Davis-White. “We know we have to come and win on our home court,” Davis-White said. The Chaps came into the Jan. 31 game off a road win against New Mexico Junior College. MC finished the game with the score of 74-57. Davis-White again led the Chaps with 23 points and Rachel Brazell scored 20. MC finished with 20 personal fouls and 17 assists. “We have a good team and we like to work hard,” said freshman Caroline Adriaansz. “I helped the team a little. We all put in the effort to win.” “When we play South Plains again, we’re going to beat them. That’s how we think about it,” Adriaansz said. Photo by Randy Rodriguez MC’s Heather Karner looks for help during Monday night’s game against Frank Phillips College at Chap Center. The Ladies won the game 85-73. Adriaansz referred to the Lady Chap’s first conference loss against South Plains College Jan. 24. The Chaps traveled to South Plains and lost 77-38. MC had a total of 20 personal fouls against South Plains. Davis-White, Heather Karner and Evelina Janisyte were the leading scorers with eight points, seven points and nine points, respectively. The Chaps had 17 personal fouls Spring sports plan for continued success By Ryan Alexander Staff Reporter The Chaparral baseball, softball, and golf teams are expected to make quite a bit of noise this year, while hoping to improve in all categories from last year, according to players and coaches. The Lady Chaparrals have been in the softball national tournament the past three years under head coach Tommy Ramos, and freshmen pitcher Brianna Dairy doesn’t think that will change this year. “We have a strong teams this year, with a very tough defense and have been working real well together,” she said. With the additions of freshmen Marina Poddubskaya and Natalia Sergeeva from Tuchkovo, Russia and Dairy’s 67 mph fastball, there is no reason to doubt that the team will go far this year. The softball season got underway Jan. 29 with the Sun City tournament in El Paso. Since Midland College adopted its baseball program in 2001, Coach Steve Ramharter has guided the team to success by compiling a 158-65 career record thus far. Led by sophomore pitcher Ricky Heines and slugging freshman catcher Rebel Riddling, the coach said he expects the men to improve on their 33-20 record of last year and make some noise in the Region V tournament in May. The Chaps get underway Feb. 5, against Cisco at Christensen Stadium. The Chaparral Golf team has a history of success under coach Delnor Poss. In 27 seasons his teams have racked up 237 tournament victories, competing in 17 straight national tournaments, winning national titles in 1992 and 1995. With returning superstars Niles Bjorling from Sweden and Greg Bowden of Ireland, Poss said he expects another winner on his hands this year. Bjorling and Bowden were the second and third ranked golfers in the NJCAA top 20 last year. The MC kings of the fairway will kick off their season on Feb. 11 against the University of Texas Brownsville in South Padre Island. Chaps Baseball Golf Softball and 10 assists. None of the Chap women fouled out. The Lady Chaps ended their first conference game of the season against the Odessa College Wranglers with a score or 61-50. Adriaansz had nine points and eight rebounds. Davis-White and Kmitaite were the leading scorers with 13 points and 10 points, respectively. MC had 21 turnovers and 19 personal fouls. Neither the MC women nor the OC women had any players fouled out. “We’re really excited about the game against OC; it’s a really good rivalry between the two teams. The schools are so close, and Odessa has beaten us the last three times,” said new assistant coach Lindsey Werntz. OC slowed on their defense in the second half and came up with numerous missed shots. The Lady Chaps held them to 24 points in the second half to give them their first conference win. “I’m more than happy about the win. I’m ecstatic!” Davis-White said. “The whole team stepped out, especially the freshmen. It’s an important win to us coming off a loss to Trinity Valley.” “Overall, the team has improved since the first semester; we’re focusing on how to improve individually,” said freshman Addie Lees. Lees had one of the six three-point field goals against OC. “It’s important to us to come back and prove ourselves, and we have a good chance at making the regional tournament,” Davis-White said. “We play as hard as we can to protect our home court,” said Brazell. “If we play hard and play smart, winning will take care of itself.” “We’re not scared of any of our opponents, and we’re going to work on consistency for every game,” said Brazell. Diamond Chaps February 4, 2005 Page 7 #14 Ricky Heines Position: Pitcher Class: SO Bats: Right Throws: Right Ht: 6'1" Wt: 195 Hometown: San Antonio, Texas #32 Adam Moser Position: Pitcher Class: SO Bats: Right Throws: Right Ht: 6'6" Wt: 220 Hometown: Medicine Hat, Alberta, Canada Brent Hardy Position: Pitcher Class: SO (Red Shirt) Bats: Right Throws: Right Ht: 5'11" Wt: 188 Hometown: Gordon A.C.T., Australia #3 Dustin Bordovsky Position: Infielder Class: SO Bats: Right Throws: Right Ht: 5'10" Wt: 180 Hometown: Kerrville, Texas #1 Brett Stevens Position: Outfielder Class: SO Bats: Right Throws: Right Ht: 5'10" Wt: 155 Hometown: Midland, Texas #4 Ryan Watkins Position: Outfielder Class: SO Bats: Right Throws: Right Ht: 6'0" Wt: 195 Hometown: Phoenix, Ariz. #5 Brad Jones Position: Infielder Class: SO Bats: Right Throws: Right Ht: 5'10" Wt: 185 Hometown: Potomac, Maryland #6 Jason Russell Position: Outfielder Class: SO Bats: Right Throws: Right Ht: 6'0" Wt: 190 Hometown: Midland, Texas #7 Adam Sylvestre Position: Outfielder Class: SO Bats: Left Throws: Right Ht: 6'1" Wt: 170 Hometown: Toronto, Alberta, Canada #12 Zach Weber Position: Pitcher Class: FR Bats: Right Throws: Right Ht: 6'1" Wt: 208 Hometown: Flandreau, South Dakota #13 Rene Calderon Position: Pitcher Class: FR Bats: Right Throws: Left Ht: 5'11" Wt: 165 Hometown: San Antonio, Texas 15 Shawn Schaefer Position: Pitcher Class: FR Bats: Right Throws: Left Ht: 5'10" Wt: 160 Hometown: Pitt Meadows, BC, Canada #17 Brian Anderson Position: Pitcher Class: FR Bats: Right Throws: Right Ht: 5'11 " Wt: 145 Hometown: Midland, Texas #18 Kurtis Schumacher Position: Pitcher Class: FR Bats: Left Throws: Left Ht: 5'11 " Wt: 165 Hometown: Maple Ridge, BC, Canada #31 Eamonn Donovan Position: Pitcher Class: FR Bats: Left Throws: Left Ht: 5'11" Wt: 170 Hometown: Arlington, Texas #33 Roger Ayala Position: Pitcher Class: FR Bats: Right Throws: Right Ht: 5'11 " Wt: 145 Hometown: Kerrville, Texas #34 Andrew Davis Position: Pitcher Class: FR Bats: Right Throws: Right Ht: 6'2" Wt: 230 Hometown: Stanwood, Wash. #35 Paul Marlow Position: Pitcher Class: FR Bats: Right Throws: Right Ht: 6'7" Wt: 215 Hometown: Surrey, BC, Canada #37 Kevin Morsching Position: Pitcher Class: FR Bats: Right Throws: Right Ht: 6'1" Wt: 182 Hometown: Rapid City, South Dakota #38 Flynn Stachowski Position: Pitcher Class: FR Bats: Right Throws: Right Ht: 6'3" Wt: 170 Hometown: Leonardtown, Maryland Josh Faglie Position: Pitcher Class: FR (Red Shirt) Bats: Right Throws: Right Ht: 6'1 " Wt: 207 Hometown: Medina, Texas #20 Karlton Banks Position: Catcher Class: FR Bats: Right Throws: Right Ht: 5'11" Wt: 200 Hometown: Amarillo, Texas #30 Rebel Ridling Position: Catcher Class: FR Bats: Right Throws: Right Ht: 6'2" Wt: 215 Hometown: Sentinel, Okla. #8 Aaron Fuller Position: Infielder Class: FR Bats: Left Throws: Right Ht: 5'11 " Wt: 170 Hometown: Jarrell, Texas #10 Steven Ellington Position: Infielder Class: FR Bats: Right Throws: Right Ht: 6' Wt: 180 Hometown: Midland, Texas #11 Drew Winston Position: Infielder Class: FR Bats: Left Throws: Right Ht: 6'3" Wt: 196 Hometown: Midland, Texas #16 Greg Ralston Position: Infielder Class: FR-RS Bats: Left Throws: Right Ht: 6'1" Wt: 170 Hometown: Wichita Falls, Texas #36 Sean McConal Position: Infielder Class: FR Bats: Right Throws: Right Ht: 6'2" Wt: 202 Hometown: Kerrville, Texas 2005 Baseball Schedule #2 Kevin Rawls Position: Outfielder Class: FR Bats: Left Throws: Left Ht: 5'11" Wt: 155 Hometown: Fair Oaks Ranch, Texas #19 Tim Smith Position: Outfielder Class: FR Bats: Left Throws: Left Ht: 6'2" Wt: 215 Hometown: Toronto, Ontario, Canada Brady Tyson Position: Pitcher Class: FR (Red Shirt) Bats: Right Throws: Right Ht: 6' Wt: 230 Hometown: Comanche, Texas Sorry, picture not available at press time #39 Nirmall Dijkman Position: Infielder Class: FR (Red Shirt) Bats: Right Throws: Right Ht: 6' 1" Wt: 190 Hometown: Nuenen, Netherlands Brian Reinke Assistant Coach Reinke came to MC from Trinidad State in Colorado. Reinke coached TSJC and led them to a strong 44014 record in 2000. He was named Region IX Coach of the Year in 2000. Steve Ramharter Head Coach Going into year four of his MC tenure Ramharter has developed the Chap program into a nationally recognized power. In the three year history of the program the Chaps have recorded an impressive 125-45 record for a .735 winning percentage. DATE FEBRUARY Saturday 5 Tuesday 8 Saturday 12 Sunday 13 Saturday 19 Sunday 20 Friday 25 Saturday 26 Sunday 27 MARCH Wednesday 2 Monday 7 Saturday 12 Sunday 13 Saturday 19 Monday 21 Friday 25 Saturday 26 APRIL Friday 1 Saturday 2 Monday 4 Friday 8 Saturday 9 Friday 15 Saturday 16 Friday 22 Saturday 23 Friday 29 Saturday 30 MAY Sat-Wed 14-18 OPPONENT LOCATION TIME Cisco Junior College Wayland Baptist University JV Dodge City Community College Dodge City Community College Ranger College Ranger College Johnson County Comm. College Olive Harvey Junior College Olive Harvey Junior College Christensen Stadium Plainview, TX Christensen Stadium Christensen Stadium Christensen Stadium Ranger, TX Christensen Stadium Simon Field Christensen Stadium 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. Noon 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. Vernon College Lubbock Christian University JV New Mexico Junior College New Mexico Junior College UT-Permian Basin JV Wayland Baptist University JV El Paso Community College El Paso Community College Christensen Stadium Christensen Stadium Hobbs, N..M. Christensen Stadium Christensen Stadium Christensen Stadium El Paso, TX El Paso, TX 3 p.m. Noon Noon Noon 1 p.m. 4 p.m. Noon Noon Odessa College Odessa College McMurry University JV Western Texas College Western Texas College Clarendon College Clarendon College Frank Phillips College Frank Phillips College Howard College Howard College Odessa, TX Christensen Stadium Abilene, TX Christensen Stadium Christensen Stadium Christensen Stadium Christensen Stadium Borger, TX Borger, TX Big Spring, TX Christensen Stadium Noon Noon 4 p.m. Noon Noon Noon Noon Noon Noon 1 p.m. 4 p.m. Region V Tournament Abilene, TX TBA Page 8 ‘Welding’ Steaks A hungry patron uses two hands to support her plate as a student puts beans on her plate. From staff reports Welding instructor Joe Smith and his high school and college VICA (Vocational Industrial Clubs of America) students hosted their annual Welding Steak Dinner on Friday, Jan. 28. This is the third year that VICA has held the steak dinner fundraiser. VICA students compete in VICA district , state and national contests. Funding to attend contests has been cut in recent years by both Midland Independent School District and Midland College, making it necessary for students to raise travel funds, Smith said. There are high school and college level VICA competition. “Our steak dinner was a success ; we raised approximately $2,000,” Smith said. “We started with 300 steaks and had 10 or so left over. My students ate the leftovers in steak and egg burritos one morning.” Smith said that the MC VICA team is well-known on the competition circuit. “Some people hope we don’t show up, because when we do you have to have a good day to beat us. We seldom give up any places at district and many times take the show. We are always in the top running at state,” Smith said. “State competition is 16 first-place district winners competing in a five-hour welding test (written and hands on). Last year we out welded 13 of them,” Smith said. Smith has 54 welding students this semester with 32 students active in VICA. He has 33 concurrent high school students and 21 college students. He also said his high school VICA students are represented by 24 males and five females. For the steak dinner the team used 30 lbs. of beans, 60 lbs. of potatoes, eight gallons of salad, 20 gallons of tea, 12 loaves of bread, 1.5 gallons of salad dressing and four dutch oven cobblers. Many VICA moms also provided desserts in the amount of 15 pies, 11 cakes, six dozen cookies and seven plates of brownies. Smith has been teaching welding at MC for more than 20 years. For more information on MC’s welding program or VICA team, contact Smith at 631-4975. February 4, 2005 The student above uses an oxy-fuel torch to bring a pot of water to a quick boil to brew tea. MC VICA students surround the cooking area at the ATC while keeping an eye on the grills where almost 300 steaks were cooked on Friday, Jan. 28. These patrons prepare their palates for desert as they wait for cakes and pies after their steak lunch. VICA students sold tickets and kept a tally of how much money was being raised. Photos by Randy Rodriguez, El Paisano Students keep four large grills hot as they grill the steaks. Diners enjoy the food and conversation at one of the lunch tables.
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