Campus News - The Southwester - Southwestern Michigan College

The
October 4, 2011
S uthwester
Serving the Southwestern Michigan College community for more than 30 years
Inside
Former SMC student, rock
climber now at Big 10 school
Brent ‘Junior’ Fifer
joins Michigan
State’s cheer team
Roadrunner Nation
Earn your Roadrunner points by attending campus events and cash in points for
cool stuff! Check out the Nation Station in
the SAC!
Page 3
Wednesdays on Plaza
Pianist Andrew Schmidt will perform
Wednesday, Oct. 5, from 11:30 a.m.
to 12:30 p.m. on the Alumni Plaza.
Page 3
Check out the Museum
The Museum at SMC is free and has a
number of exhibits, including “Uniquely
Round Oak.”
Page 4
Free Movie Premier
All SMC students and staff are invited
to a free movie premier of “Fast Talk” at
7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 28, in the event
theatre at the SAC. “Fast Talk” tracks the
Northwestern University debate team as it
tries for a second consecutive championship while simultaneously examining why
debaters now talk so fast and how their
arguments are unintelligible and inconsequential to a non-debate audience.
Halloween Ball
Monday, Oct. 31 • 9 p.m. – Midnight • SAC
Costumes are optional, but if you dress up
you get Roadrunner points. Light refreshments will be served, s’mores over the fire
pit on SAC patio, a scary movie, and a DJ.
Former SMC student Brent “Junior”
Fifer says if someone had told him a
year ago he would become a member of the Michigan State University
cheerleading squad, he would have
laughed and told them “no way!”
Yet, that is exactly what happened
to the former SMC SAC and rock wall
student worker.
“I am completely addicted to the
whole stunting aspect of the sport,”
said the 21-year-old Fifer. “It’s an
absolute blast being able to throw
gorgeous girls in the air and make it
look so fluid. I love it.”
Fifer transferred from SMC to MSU
last winter and joined a fraternity,
where he did his share of partying.
But all that fun took its toll on Fifer,
and by the end of the semester he was
out of shape.
“I was looking to join some sort of
intramural or club team,” the South
Bend St. Joseph Catholic High School
graduate said. “A girl I met who was
on the cheer team told me I should
come to an open practice and stunt
around.”
According to Fifer, stunting is the
practice of throwing a female cheerleader in the air while performing
routines with her. Fifer said he enjoys
stunting because he is learning all the
tumbling aspects of the sport.
“I never thought I would be able to
do all the flips and tumbling, but I
O F F
T H E
keep learning more and more — and
it’s a blast,” Fifer said. “And, for the
record, I have had no prior experience in the cheerleading aspect before
coming to State.”
Fifer said growing up he always
played football and wrestled, but
never dreamt that he would excel at
such things as gymnastics.
“I was a little skeptical about it,
but then said ‘why not?’” said Fifer,
who grew up in Niles. “I caught on to
the whole stunting thing really quick,
and by the second practice was able
to do stunts that take most beginners
months to get. I guess I was just naturally good at it.”
The MSU cheer team coach offered
Fifer the chance to join the squad
and the rest is history. Normally, as
a first-year team member, Fifer said
he would not be allowed to cheer at
away games as those opportunities
are given to veteran members on the
team.
“But being a first-year member, I
also wasn’t supposed to be on the
green squad, which is the varsity
team,” Fifer said. “We cheer football
and men’s basketball, while the white
squad cheers volleyball and women’s
basketball. But I excelled enough to
be an exception.”
When asked what MSU games he
is looking forward to in the coming
weeks, Fifer said “the MSU versus
U of M game. I have a feeling it’s
going be a great matchup, especially
after the upsetting loss against Notre
Dame.”
Former SMC student Brent “Junior”
Fifer, back left, became a member of
the Michigan State University cheer
team last semester after trying out for
the squad.
Brent Fifer stunts a cheer team member
during a recent MSU game. Stunting is
the practice of throwing a female cheerleader in the air while performing rouSee FORMER STUDENT, Page 2 tines with her.
C L O C K
Computer instructor develops
mobile apps for Catholics
For SMC instructor Chip Leinen, what
he does here at the college is almost mirrored by what he does on his days off. He
teaches a full load of IT classes in SMC’s
School of Business and then he goes
home to work on computer applications for mobile devices, such as iPhone,
iPads, iPod Touch, and Android.
He refers to himself as “a big computer nerd.” He and two business partners
started Little i Apps, a mobile applications development company “with a
Roman Catholic twist.” According to the
company’s website, they “create apps for
tech savvy Catholics.”
It all started with the development
of an iPhone app called “Confession: A
Roman Catholic App.”
“We are all devout Catholics,” said
Leinen about himself and his partners.
“There is a need for
(the application).”
The trio researched
and developed the
mobile app for
Catholics because
it was a niche
market
where
there was little or
no competition.
It took them
six months to
build the confessional app. The three had
little expectations for its success.
“We didn’t have much expectation.
We just thought we were getting to do
something cool,” said Leinen, who has
See OFF THE CLOCK, Page 2
“Off the Clock” is a unique
column that features SMC’s
faculty and staff doing
fun, exciting, unusual, and
interesting things or
hobbies when they take off
their SMC hat. For many
of us, our off-hours are
spent doing mundane chores
such as mowing our lawns,
cleaning our homes, doing
laundry, or fixing something.
But for many others,
the weekend can mean an
opportunity to ignite those
creative fires that bring us joy
and peace! What we hope to
achieve through this column
is to offer our readers insight
into the lives of the people who
make up our SMC family.
Campus News
The Southwester
Page 2
October 4, 2011
From Page 1
Former SMC
student, rock climber
now at Big 10 school
After he gets his bachelor’s
degree in kinesiology, which is
the study of movement and the
human body, Fifer plans on
going to chiropractic school.
However, he said he has fond
memories from his days at
SMC.
“What I liked most about
SMC and living on campus
was being able to walk two
minutes to my classes, being
able to work a sweet job at the
SAC, and the awesome fitness
center and rock wall always
helped clear steam from
exams,” Fifer said.
“There is an air of friendliness
Brent Fifer with his cheer team
member during a recent game.
Brent Fifer is a first-year member of the MSU cheer team. He
is looking forward to the MSU match-up with University of Michigan.
from all the professors and students on the campus. It was a
great experience, and I suggest
SMC to everyone before going
on to the bigger universities.” While attending SMC, Fifer
was a student worker at the
SAC and in the rock climbing
gym — all of which he enjoyed.
But he said it was SMC’s low
tuition rates and the ability
to explore different academic
From Page 1
Off the Clock: Instructor develops apps for Catholics
a Bachelor of Science in Computer
Science from Franciscan University in
Steubenville, Ohio. “Then the media
picked up on the app.”
Originally, they marketed to Catholic
publications. Then, the Australian
media contacted them about a story.
Next, the media in Ireland heard about
the app and did a story. Finally, their
success exploded when a reporter from
Reuters News Agency wrote an article.
While the app has not gotten any formal “blessing” from the Pope, Leinen
said the Vatican has commented on
the confessional app. According to the
company’s website, the app has been
granted imprimatur, which represents
the approval of the local bishop.
The imprimatur is not an endorsement by the bishop of the contents of
the app, but only a public declaration
that nothing offensive to Catholic
teaching on faith and morals has
been found.
“The app is not intended to function as a replacement for confession,”
said Leinen, who runs a high school
youth group with his wife. “The app is
Chip Leinen, an SMC Information
Technology instructor, demonstrates
“Confession: A Roman Catholic App” on
his phone.
designed to give the user a list of questions to reflect on.”
The confessional app works like
this: Users create an account based
studies that gave him a good
foundation before he headed
to MSU.
“SMC helped me out a lot
because I established friendships that I still have today,”
Fifer said. “I also saved a lot of
money and was able to figure
out what I wanted to go into
once I got to State.” Eileen Crouse, SMC’s executive director of Student
Housing and Campus Life,
said working with Fifer was a
good experience.
“He was a great student
and an all-around great guy,”
Crouse said. “It’s just kind of
cool that one of our own can
be seen on national television
cheering for a Big Ten school.
It just reinforces the idea that
starting at SMC can and does
lead to great things.”
on age, sex, and vocation (meaning
whether they are single, married, or a
priest). The app is password protected and customized to provide a “personalized examination of conscience
for each user.”
The app, which costs $1.99, is listed
in the top 200 lifestyle apps. The three
have also developed other apps, such
as eVotions, a 99-cent app that offers
image galleries, streaming videos, and
notifications for praying novenas; and
a free app called CV/CatholicVote.org.
Currently under development is the
Admissions App, a student recruitment tool that helps prospective students through the admissions process.
Finish your 4-year degree in
17 months from Bethel College
New College Hours
at the SMC Dowagiac campus
Dowagiac campus & Niles Area Campus
Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Extended Hours
Dowagiac campus
Niles Area Campus
Tuesday till 7 p.m.
Wednesday till 7 p.m.
The following offices will be open until 7 p.m.
•
•
•
•
•
•
Admissions
Advising
Registration
Financial Aid
Business Office
Bookstore
Academic Assessment & Testing Services
and the Learning Center have additional
extended hours depending on the
campus location.
Bethel College’s
Organizational Management Program Features
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Transferupto88SouthwesternMichiganCollegecredits
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Ifyouhave62ormorecredits,youcanstartnow!
Next Group Starts Oct. 18, 2011
Call for an appointment to meet with a
Bethel College Adult Studies Counselor
269.782.1267 or 1.800.422.4251
www.bethelcollege.edu/adult
Campus News
October 4, 2011
The Southwester
Page 3
Don’t forget
to turn in your
Roadrunner Nation Bucks
If you haven’t signed up
for Roadrunner Nation, there is still time
I
f you were one of the
250 lucky students
who signed up to participate in Roadrunner
Nation during Campus
Bash and received Roadrunner Bucks, don’t forget
that you must turn the
bucks in at the SAC in
order to receive the 100
points worth of credit to
your Roadrunner Nation
account.
Remember, you must
bring your student I.D. to
prove who you are when
you turn in your bucks.
If you haven’t signed up for Roadrunner
Nation, you can still do that at the SAC.
Sorry, no free bucks, though. But you
can find out how to begin earning points
by checking out the Roadrunner Nation
events list at the SAC or on your Moodle
account.
“Students need to watch their Moodle
account,” said Eileen Crouse, executive
director of Student Housing and Campus
Life. “That is where they will find the list
of opportunities to earn their Roadrunner
Bucks. Also, on Moodle they will find
the Roadrunner Nation
account where they can
see how many points
they have earned.”
Some of the things
students can do to
begin earning their
Roadrunner
Nation
points is to attend group
fitness classes, SAC
activities, Intramural
Sports events, Transfer
Day, lectures, or an event
at the Museum at SMC,
Crouse said. All events
and activities are free.
“If a student comes and brings a friend
or gets them to join, that student can get
extra points,” Crouse said. “Once someone gets 2,000 points, they get a free
Roadrunner T-shirt. And the best part is
they won’t lose those 2,000 points.”
Students will get a Roadrunner Nation
decal for their SMC student I.D., which is
their access card to all Roadrunner Nation
events. By earning Roadrunner points,
students can cash in accumulated points
for some pretty cool stuff. Stop by the
Nation Station at the SAC to see all the
items you can get with your points.
The new Alumni Plaza is designed to be a gathering place for students and staff. Beginning
Wednesday, Oct. 5, there will be free entertainment from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Wednesdays on the Plaza
T
he new Alumni Plaza will be the site
of free weekly entertainment through
October.
Beginning on Wednesday, Oct. 5, from
11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., musical performances, entertainment, and other activities
will be held in the center of the Dowagiac
campus. So, grab a friend, bring your lunch
and join us for these free weekly events.
The following is a list of Wednesdays on
the Plaza events. All events are scheduled
from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Oct. 5
Pianist Andrew Schmidt,
SMC Reference Librarian
Oct. 12
SMC’s Dance Club
Oct. 19
SMC’s Choir
Oct. 26
DJ @ the Plaza
are invited!
Ferris State University welcomes YOU
to the next chapter of YOUR life. If YOU
have been waiting for the right time to
finish YOUR degree or start working
toward it, YOUR time is now. We invite
YOU to take advantage of the Ferris
location right here on YOUR campus
and begin to write YOUR new story.
Come to the Ferris open house and talk
to our counselors and admissions staff.
FERRIS STATE
UNIVERSITY
Learn how YOUR credits can transfer
to a bachelor’s degree. See how
Ferris works to provide financial
aid so YOU can earn YOUR
bachelor’s degree locally
and affordably.
YOUR next chapter begins
at Ferris State University.
FERRIS
DOWAGIAC
OPEN HOUSE
Imagine More
Mon. Oct. 10
4 - 6 pm
Dale A. Lyons
Building
Room 141
139 Lyons
58900 Cherry Grove Rd.
Dowagiac, MI 49047
Phone: 269.782.1214 or
800.456.8675 ext. 1214
FerrisSW@ferris.edu
www.ferris.edu/statewide
Page 4
Campus News
The Southwester
October 4, 2011
Have you been to
the Museum at SMC?
It’s free
BY JOSEPH OHLENBUSCH
Student Writer
M
any students visit the SAC or the library on
SMC’s Dowagiac campus, but some don’t
know there is a museum here. Of the students that do know, many probably have done nothing more than walk by.
It’s really a shame that many students have missed
out on the great artifacts of local history that the
Museum at SMC has on display.
The Museum has many artifacts, and the related
stories of Dowagiac and the surrounding area that
would have been lost to time are beautifully displayed
at our campus.
Did you know that Dowagiac at one time produced
automobiles? Well, you can see one on display that
was built right here.
The Museum offers photos and artifacts of the oncegreat Beckwith Theater (yes, Dowagiac also had a theater) that stood downtown. The architectural, sculpted
medallions are featured on the pylons in the courtyard
between the Lyons and O’Leary Buildings.
Between the late 1800s and early 1900s, Dowagiac
produced one of the finest quality stoves in the country. The Round Oak stoves and other paraphernalia
pertaining to the company can be seen in an exhibit
titled “Uniquely Round Oak” through the end of the
semester at the Museum.
In the new exhibit, there are rare original paintings by famous illustrator Remington Schuyler
(1884-1955), whose works were used on magazine
and pulp fiction novel covers from the 1910s to
the 1940s.
Schuyler’s illustrations appeared in “Saturday
Evening Post,” “Boy’s Life,” “Life Magazine,” and
many others. Schuyler was commissioned by Round
Oak to paint the large format oil paintings that were
later used in the company’s advertisements. Some of
Steve Arseneau, museum director, stands next to the Lindsley car,
which was once produced in Dowagiac.
Tom Caskey, Museum exhibit designer, shows off the
fire hand-pump exhibit.
these paintings are on loan to the museum and will
only be on display for a limited time.
Other things on display are rare postcards, advertisements, and, of course, many of the original stoves
that were manufactured in Dowagiac. Many pieces
are from private collectors on loan to the Museum, so
be sure to come in soon so you don’t miss this unique
opportunity to see the exhibit before it closes.
There are also interactive exhibits, including one
where you can try a Heddon fishing lure, manufactured in Dowagiac, and also try a turn-of-the-century
hand pump with a fire engine hose. To this day, the
Dowagiac firefighters hold the record for distance
using the hand pump.
Next time you find yourself with some free time,
stop by and the friendly staff will show you around.
Who knows? You may even learn something.
The Museum at SMC is free. Museum hours are
from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and
from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.
A young visitor tries his hand at fishing in the watering
hole inside the Museum.
Visitors examine the restored Dowagiac Grain Drill.
Check out museum permanent exhibits
In addition to the “Uniquely Round Oak” exhibit, the Museum at SMC has permanent displays of its collection. These include:
The Lure of Leisure: Lakes, Sports
and Theaters” features hundreds of
never-before-seen artifacts and traces
more than 100 years of recreation and
entertainment in the College District,
from fairs and theaters to music and
fire departments.
city grew over the 50 years that it went
from a pioneer town to industrial small
city.
The changes are there to be seen in
this two-sided railroad set featuring
two trains. Visit Railroads, Mills and
Drills to ride the rails!
“Dowagiac: Fifty Years of Growth”
takes visitors along on the SMC Express
to Dowagiac as it appeared in 1870 and
1920 in this permanent exhibit. Done
in HO scale (1:87.1), this model railroad set accurately depicts downtown
Dowagiac so visitors can see how the
“Small Town, Big World: Locals
Who Made History” introduces visitors to those folks who made it big after
leaving the small town. The exhibit also
includes area men and women who
answered the nation’s call to duty during wartime. Some of those featured
include:
Leigh Wade piloted one of the airplanes in the first around-the-world
flight in 1924.
Edward Lowe made life easier for
cat owners with his invention, Kitty
Litter.
Thomas Shelhamer created some of
the finest rifles of the 20th century.
Charles Smith marketed his Smith
Hoist to construction people across the
globe.
Capt. Iven C. Kincheloe broke the
altitude record as a test pilot in 1956.
James Heddon revolutionized the
fishing industry with his lures.
Eleanor Colby’s art delighted thousands across the country.
Webb Miller wrote dispatches from
across the world for the United Press
International.
“Railroads, Mills, and Drills” is
an exhibit exploring the early history
of the Potawatomi Indians, the first
white settlers, the establishment of
villages along railroad lines, and the
Underground Railroad.
Campus News
October 4, 2011
The Southwester
The beginning…
By ELIZABETH PINGEL
Student Writer
Elizabeth Pingel
The following poem and
story was written by
SMC student Elizabeth
Pingel. Pingel, who is a
graduate of Lawrence
High School, received
an SMC Creative
Writing scholarship.
Because of the length
of her submission, it
will be featured in three
parts. Part two will run
in the Nov. 1 edition
of the Southwester with
the last part appearing
in the Dec. 2 edition.
Chapter One
I used to think people were stupid if they thought that the death of a
loved one ended life. You’re still alive so don’t live in the past. But that
was before. Before my life ended? Before it began? It really doesn’t matter
how you look at it. It divided my life into two sections. It happened the
summer of 2008. Everything changed. And I survived because of him.
Every year my family takes a trip to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.
Just the four of us. It gives us a chance to actually be a family. My favorite
part is when we’re crossing the Mackinac Bridge. You can see the deep
azure of the water below. And the most exciting – newcomers’ faces while
they drive across for the first time. It’s a perfect blending of fear and
excitement.
The morning of August 2, 2008 was when my life ended. It was the
beginning of our annual trip to the U.P. Everything was surprisingly
normal. As usual, we stopped at the fort to buy fudge. I got the mint, my
parents got the Mackinac Island, and my brother, Mikey, got whatever
looked good to him. The day was windy and there were warnings of thunderstorms. Nothing that we haven’t been through yet.
Paying tolls, I couldn’t shake this uneasy feeling. The one where you
know something bad is going to happen but ignore it. It started to rain
so I shoved the feeling to the back of my mind telling myself that it was
nothing, just the rain. But it was like a flashing neon sign. It couldn’t be
ignored. Mom turned around to smile at Mikey and I and stopped when
she saw my face. “What’s wrong, honey?”
“Nothing,” I replied, “Something just doesn’t seem right.”
She gave me a sympathetic look, “Everything’s okay, honey. We’ve
crossed in the rain before, remember?”
I nodded but couldn’t hold back, “It was before the rain.” Then I
shrugged, “Don’t worry about it. It’s nothing. It’s okay.” But I didn’t know
who I was trying to convince more; me or her? Dad caught my eye in
the rear-view mirror and made a funny face. I laughed because it was
expected of me. I always laughed. But I should have listened to my gut
and asked my parents to stop.
I heard a horn blare and turned my head towards the jerk. I screamed,
“Dad, look out!”… Or at least I think I did.
Page 5
Death,
What is it
Is it the end
Or just another beginning
Is it like a flower coming and going
Waiting for another life
Is it an adventure
Does it turn into something else
Like a caterpillar turning into a butterfly
Could it be approaching you
I’m prepared for it
Are You?
A semi-truck was
passing in the left lane,
which it shouldn’t
have been doing. Not
that it was a law or
something but it just
wasn’t done. The truck
swerved out of control, narrowly missing the vehicle in front of us. It came
at us instead. I know the obvious cliché to say is, “My life flashed before my
eyes,” but that didn’t fit. My mind just went blank with terror. I remember
the only thing going through my mind was the fact that the truck was
going to push us over. And it came true as we went over the side.
Then, like a computer, my mind started flashing images of possible outcomes. None of them were good. But I wouldn’t accept that. I tightened
my seat belt and prepared myself. My dad shouted something before the
impact of the water hit the windshield and broke it. I ripped my seatbelt
off and slipped out through the back window before I got caught in the
truck.
My family was still in the truck. I swam around the truck deciding to
get my brother first. I yanked the door open, something that’s not easy
under water. Mikey’s seatbelt wouldn’t give so I slipped my pocket knife
out and cut through it. I pulled him to the surface and took a gulp of air
before going back under. My mother was next. Her door was easier but
the seatbelt was the same. I pulled her to the surface and took a breath
preparing to go back under. But I was grabbed and pulled onto a boat.
I didn’t care who was holding me. I was hysterical and screamed like
I was being murdered. In a way I was. My life was nothing without my
dad and they wouldn’t let me save him. I kicked my “attackers” and did
anything I could think of just to get them off of me. A wool blanket was
wrapped around me and an unknown amount of restraining hands. “My
dad’s down there, you idiots!” I screamed but they wouldn’t listen.
I slumped down to my knees in anguish. The world went black.
Chapter 2 will appear in the Nov. 1 Southwester.
Student
Activities
All activities are held at the Student Activity
Center unless otherwise noted.
Student Activity Center Hours
Monday–Thursday: 6:30 a.m.–11 p.m.
Friday: 6:30 a.m.–7 p.m.
Saturday: 8:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
Sunday: 2 p.m.–8 p.m.
*Every Tuesday during the fall semester:
Bingo/cards/spoons, 1–3 p.m.
*Every Tuesday: New Release Movies, 8 p.m.
*Every Wednesday: Performances on the
Plaza, Alumni Plaza, 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
through Oct. 26
*Every Thursday: Xbox dance games &
karaoke … walk-in, open to all!
Oct. 21
Rock Climbing Club trip to Grand Ledge
For further information, email president@
swmich.edu.
Oct. 24
Pumpkin Carving, Painting,
or Creating Contest. There will be one
grand prize for each category. Three $25
prizes. Donuts and cider for all participants.
Oct. 27: 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Virtual Halloween Costume Contest
Come dressed in your best costume and get
your picture taken for Wired so your fellow
students can vote for the best costume.
One grand prize for the Best Overall
Costume!
Group Fitness Schedule
All classes are located in Room 807 of the
Student Activity Center and are free to students and staff with SMC I.D. card. Nonmembers may purchase a $5 pass per class.
All classes are through Dec. 12 and you can
join in at any point during the semester.
Hatha Yoga
Learn yoga poses known as asanas with
the proper alignment to increase wellness,
breathing, flexibility, relaxation and restoration.
All levels welcome.
Instructor: Karen Sommers
Mondays: 6-7:15 p.m.
BodyPump
The original barbell class is designed to
strengthen your entire body. This workout
challenges all your major muscle groups by
using the best weight-room exercises like
squats, presses, lifts and curls. The class may
be offered in 45- or 60-minute formats.
Instructors: Justin Bennett, Michele Harlow,
Stephanie Munson
Tuesdays & Thursdays: 6:30-7:30 a.m.
Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays:
12:15-1 p.m.
Tuesdays: 5:15-6:15 p.m.
On the Ball
This creative class focuses on muscle
conditioning and stretch techniques. If you
want to improve your strength, flexibility,
balance, and posture while having fun, do not
miss this class.
Instructor: Stephanie Munson
Monday: 11-11:30 a.m.
Zumba®
A total body workout that gets your feet
moving, hips swinging, and whole body
groovin’. Get in shape while dancing hot Latin
dances like Salsa, Reggaeton, Merengue, and
Samba.
Instructor: Melissa Swingle
Mondays: 4-4:45 p.m.
Page 6
Campus News
The Southwester
Photos from
Fall Campus
BASH
October 4, 2011
Page 7
Page 8
Campus News
The Southwester
October 4, 2011
SEMESTER BEGINS JAN. 9, 2012
Ferris @ SMC Fall Advising
Schedule Spring 2012
Advisors for Ferris State University @ Southwestern Michigan College will
be on the Dowagiac campus several times during fall semester. If you are
interested in talking with any of the advisors below, please make an appointment by contacting the Ferris @ SMC office at ferrisSW@ferris.edu or call
782-1214/800-456-8675, ext. 1214.
For the Technical & Professional Communication program, contact
Deepinder Uppal at duppal@swmich.edu or call 782-1291.
Accountancy, Business Administration,
Business Administration – Professional Tracks,
and Human Resource Management
Donald Brecken, advisor
Email: donaldbrecken@ferris.edu
Phone: 616-642-5752,
800-998-3425
Oct. 10 & 24, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Nov. 14 & 22, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Dec. 12, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Computer Information Systems
and Computer Information Technology
Clyde Hardman, advisor
Email: hardmanc@ferris.edu
Phone: 231-591-2822/800-433-7747, ext. 2822
Oct. 17, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Technical & Professional Communication
Deepinder Uppal, advisor
Email: duppal@swmich.edu (best)
Phone: 782-1291
Financial Aid Officer
Krista Elkins (Krista will meet with students by appointment
only at SMC’s Dowagiac campus. Call or email for appointment.)
Email: hansenk8@ferris.edu (best)
Phone: 782-1210
Students: Need a little
extra help in a class?
The Learning Center offers FREE tutoring to SMC
students in nearly every subject area.
It’s not too late to receive FREE tutoring at the Learning Center! Don’t wait
until the last minute – stop in for drop-in tutoring today! Remember, as an
SMC student, all services at the Learning Center (except printing) are FREE!!!
Writing Center
Also, if you are looking for someone to assist you in writing a paper, developing
your resume, or completing scholarship essays, call 269-782-1388 or stop by the
Writing Center at the Fred L. Mathews Library to set up an appointment with a
Writing Consultant. Do it today; appointments fill up fast!
The Learning Center is located at the Fred L. Mathews Library College
Services Building on the Dowagiac campus and off of the commons area
at the Niles Area Campus.
Eight Southwestern Michigan College students have been nationally certified as indoor
rock climbing supervisors. Pictured beginning in the back row from left to right is J.D.
Busby, Sergio Moreno and Calvin Hall. In front, from left to right, are Omar Stark,
Kasandra Jackson, Ashley Olson, and Jon Morris. Not pictured is Brooke Olson.
Students get national
indoor certification
E
ight Southwestern Michigan
College students have been nationally certified as indoor rock climbing instructors by the Climbing Wall
Association.
SMC President Dr. David Mathews said
the college’s rock climbing gym may be the
first in the country to have so many individuals certified under this classification.
The students also have first aid training.
“This may be the only indoor rock climbing facility with this number of trained and
certified individuals,” said Dr. Mathews,
who is also a rock climber himself and the
college’s rock climbing instructor.
SMC students certified are Jon Morris,
Ashley and Brooke Olson, Sergio Moreno,
Calvin Hall, J.D. Busby, Omar Stark, and
Kasandra Jackson.
“It’s a great opportunity and something
to put on my resume,” said rock climbing
supervisors Calvin Hall, Sergio Moreno,
and Omar Stark. Stark said he plans on
becoming a physical trainer and sees the
supervisory training as an extra edge for
his career.
Other students like the physical aspect
that rock climbing offers.
“I like the workout you get from climbing,” said Ashley Olson.
The Canyon – Rock Climbing Room Hours
Tuesday:
2-5 p.m.
(New Climber Safety
Orientations Time Slot)
5-8 p.m.
(Open Climbing)
Thursday & Friday:
4-7 p.m.
(Open Climbing)
Saturday:
10 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
(Open Climbing)
Ferris @ SMC Events
Are you interested in getting your
four-year degree through Ferris @
SMC? Then you should attend one
of the workshops or the Ferris Open
House in October.
The Ferris Open House on Oct. 10
will offer students the opportunity to
talk with Ferris counselors and admission staff. Learn how your credits
transfer to a bachelor’s degree. Learn
about Ferris’ financial aid so you can
earn your bachelor’s degree right here
at SMC.
Oct. 10, 4 – 6 p.m.
Dale A. Lyons Building, Room 141
Ferris Open House
Oct. 17, 1 – 2 p.m.
Learning Center at the Mathews Library
Informational Workshop
• Computer Information Systems
& Computer Information Technology:
Clyde Hardman
• Transferring to Ferris at SMC:
Lisa Topping
Stop in and see what we have to offer!
Dowagiac campus
Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m.-7 p.m.
Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Niles Area Campus
Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m.-7 p.m
Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Dowagiac campus • 58900 Cherry Grove Road • Dowagiac, Michigan 49047
Niles Area Campus • 33890 U.S. Highway 12 • Niles, Michigan 49120
R.A.D. training for SMC women Nov. 7-9
A free Rape Aggression Defense, R.A.D., training will be offered Nov. 7-9 from
3:30-5:30 p.m. in the SAC for SMC women students and staff.
The three-day training will include lectures on awareness and prevention, as well
as teaching women how to physically defend themselves, according to Eileen Crouse,
executive director of Student Housing and Campus Life.
Participants will spend two hours each day learning different techniques to protect
themselves against an attack. On the last day, Crouse said the women will participate
in a simulated attack with trained R.A.D. instructors.
For more information or to sign up for the training, go to the SAC information desk.
Campus News
October 4, 2011
The Southwester
Page 9
Hosted by Academic Support
Transfer Student Workshops
OCTOBER — NOVEMBER
W
eekly workshops will be offered from early October through mid-November with a wide range of relevant topics for students considering a
transfer to a four-year university. All workshops will be held in the Media
Review Room in the Learning Center at the Mathews Library. No reservations
are required, but for additional information, email Brenda Pavolka at bpavolka@
swmich.edu.
Tuesday, Oct. 4, 11:30-12:30 p.m.
Finding and Accessing Career Resources in the Library and Online
Andrew Schmidt, reference librarian at the Mathews Library, will introduce you
to library and online resources to explore careers and related majors. This is a great
opportunity to learn a new research skill that can help with your transfer and your
SMC coursework.
Wednesday, Oct. 5, 1-2 p.m.
Selecting a Career by Considering Skills, Interests, and Values
Annette Mileski, director of Learning Support at the Learning Center, will treat
attendees to a thought-provoking discussion on resources and techniques to examine personal skills, interests, and values in identifying a career.
Thursday, October 6, 1-2 p.m.
How to Research and Find the Best Fit School for You and Your Career Goals
Elizabeth “Beth” Bressler and Jane Comden, academic advisors, will lead a discussion on determining if a college has the degree program that will get you going
on a career path suited for you. They will provide a “checklist” to assist you in that
evaluation.
Tuesday, Oct. 11, 1-2 p.m.
How to Prepare for a Career in Music and Related Fields
Dave Carew, music instructor, and Beth Bressler, academic advisor, will discuss
how to prepare for a music major transfer and career options with a music major in
education, performance, or related area.
Wednesday, Oct. 12, 1-2 p.m.
Tuesday Oct. 18, 1-2 p.m.
Careers in Engineering, Math, and Related Fields
Andrew Dohm, instructor of mathematics and physics in the math-science
department, and Brenda Pavolka and Kathie Gries, academic advisors, will provide a presentation on careers in engineering, math, and related fields. Dohm
will discuss the difference in the AS transfer option versus the AAS Engineering
Technology, the importance of the math and science sequences, and the demands
of the different majors.
Wednesday, Oct. 19, 4-5 p.m.
Careers in Dance and Related Fields
Beth LaBaron-Root, dance instructor, and Beth Bressler, academic advisor, will
present a workshop on career options in the dance and performing arts field including performance, education, and others. There will also be discussion on the transfer process, which includes audition and portfolio preparation while at SMC.
Thursday, Oct. 20, 12-1 p.m.
Careers in the Medical Pre-Professional Area including Chiropractic,
Dentistry, Medicine, Pharmacy, Physical/Occupational Therapy, Veterinary,
and other related areas
Jackie Perry, math and science instructor, Kathie Gries and Brenda Pavolka, academic advisors, will present an overview of careers in the medical pre-professional
field. They will discuss the importance of the math and science prerequisite courses
that should be taken at SMC. Perry will also discuss recommended bachelors degree
majors that will serve a student well as they pursue their professional degree.
Thursday, Oct. 27, 3-4 p.m.
Careers in the Social Sciences and Identifying the Best Bachelors Degree
Major for You
Jeff Dennis, social science instructor, and Roberto Overton, academic advisor,
will discuss various career opportunities utilizing a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of
Science in the social science areas, including Social Work, Sociology, Psychology,
Political Science, Criminal Justice, Law, and related areas.
Are You a Major Changer? Why There is No Longer an Undecided Major
Option AND How to Keep your Career Options Flexible
Brenda Pavolka and Kathie Gries, academic advisors, will share with students
why an “Undecided” Major choice is no longer an option, and the pluses/minuses
of major changing. They will also discuss courses that can keep your career options
flexible.
Tuesday, Nov. 1, 1-2 p.m.
Thursday, Oct. 13, 10:30-11:15 a.m. & 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Wednesday, Nov. 2, 1-2 p.m.
Careers in Hotel Management and Special Events Planning/Careers in
Business and Related Fields
Jim Benak, School of Business faculty, Stacy Horner, chair of the School of
Business, and Brenda Pavolka, academic advisor, will provide a discussion on different careers in Hotel Management and Special Events Planning during the first
half of this workshop. Careers in business and related fields (accounting, finance,
advertising, marketing, etc.) will be reviewed during the second half. Come and see
how an SMC AA transfer degree or AAS occupational degree in these fields can lead
to a great career for you.
Monday, Oct. 17, 1-2 p.m.
The Ferris State University Bachelor of Science Program in Computer
Information Systems and Computer Information Technology
Lisa Topping, Ferris State University at SMC coordinator, and Clyde Hardman,
Ferris CIS/CIT faculty advisor, will provide program overviews and information
on the process of transferring from SMC to Computer Information System and
Computer Information Tech programs bachelor options on the Dowagiac campus.
Open to all students considering these transfer options. If you are in an SMC ISYSrelated program or considering this major, you will want to attend this session.
Alpha Kappa Omega –
SMC Bible Study Club
The SMC Bible Study Club, AKO, meets on Thursday at 1 p.m. in
the Transfer Resource Room in the Learning Center at the Mathews
Library. Bring your Bible, lunch, and ideas for concerts and movies. For
more information, email chapter Advisor Brenda Pavolka at bpavolka@
swmich.edu.
Applying for Financial Aid with your Transfer and How to Research
Scholarships
Carol Ostyn, SMC financial aid advisor, and Brenda Pavolka, academic advisor,
will provide an information session on federal financial aid and your transfer and
how to conduct a useful scholarship search.
Who is Mac Roa and What did He do with Your Credits?
Carol Lee, assistant SMC registrar, and Brenda Pavolka, academic advisor, will
explain the “MACRAO Stamp” and how your credits transfer in and may transfer out.
Thursday, Nov. 3, 1-2 p.m.
How Volunteer and Internship Experience May Lead to Scholarships and
Help with Career Choices
Diane Barrett Curtis, coordinator of internships and apprenticeships, and Brenda
Pavolka, academic advisor, will discuss how volunteering and internships in areas
related to your career interest can help with your career choices. Additionally, these
experiences have potential for scholarship opportunities.
Thursday, Nov. 10, 1-3 p.m.
Academic Planning and Creating Your Personal Educational Development
Plan (EDP)
Angie Palsak, associate dean of students, and Dr. Scott Topping, dean of academic
studies, will share with participants the “who, what, where, and why” of EDP’s. You hear
your advisor talk about it, you are told to follow it, but is it really THAT important?
Come and find out.
College Visits in October
Stop by and find out more about completing bachelor’s degrees at Central Michigan
University or Western Michigan University.
College admissions representatives will be set
up at the entrance to the Learning Center at
the Mathews Library. Watch Wired announcements for on-site visits.
• Central Michigan University – Tuesday,
Oct. 18, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Appointments
and walk-in basis. Email Brenda Pavolka at
bpavolka@swmich.edu for a 20-minute priority appointment with the CMU representative.
• Western Michigan University – Tuesday,
Oct. 25, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Walk-in basis.
Page 10
The Southwester
Campus News
October 4, 2011
Charley’s Aunt kicks off SMC’s
Fine & Performing Arts schedule
The fall production of the SMC
theatre department will be “Charley’s
Aunt.” The play will be performed on
Thursday, Oct. 27, Friday, Oct. 28, and
Saturday, Oct. 29, at 7:30 p.m., and at
2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 30, in the theatre
of the Dale A. Lyons Building on the
Dowagiac campus.
Ticket prices are $7 general admission, $5 students and senior citizens,
and free to those 18 and under. Tickets
can be purchased from the Box Office
at 800-456-8675, ext. 1280.
A comedic masterpiece of love, mistaken identity and men in skirts! Jack
and Charles invite their girlfriends
to Oxford — properly chaperoned,
of course, by Charley’s wealthy aunt.
When the aunt’s arrival is delayed, it
looks like the romantic rendezvous is
Former SMC
student cuts
first solo
album
James Francis, a former SMC student,
recently released his first solo album titled,
“Just the Beginning,” produced by DDM
Productions. His album was featured on
the Eastern Tennessee radio station Local
Mix at 6 on 105.5 the Mixx.
Francis has been performing since a
very young age. He grew up in Three Oaks
and attended River Valley High School.
During his senior year, he was chosen
to represent Michigan in the American
Choral Directors Association (ACDA)
Honors Choir.
After he graduated from River Valley in
2006, he attended Southwestern Michigan
College, where he majored in vocal performance. There he performed in numerous
choral concerts and stage shows.
“Before coming to SMC, I didn’t have
any kind of formal vocal training,” Francis
said. “David Carew was the first voice
teacher I ever had. He taught me different
techniques and gave me the fundamentals
a good vocalist needs.”
Along with voice classes and other music
classes he took while at SMC, Francis said
James Francis
off. An emergency aunt is called for!
In their desperation, the boys enlist
their eccentric friend, Lord Fancourt
Babberly, as the man for the job. But
while the impostor-aunt starts to play
fast and loose with his part, the real
aunt is getting ever closer, and it isn’t
long before the misunderstandings and
misdemeanors are spiraling out of control in this raucous and rollicking farce.
The following is a list of cast members:
Stephen Spettigue.......................Brad Ruminer
Sir Francis Chesney.....................Brett Mitchell
Jack Chesney..............................Andrew Cleminshaw
Charley Wykeham........................Justin Williams
Lord Fancourt Babberley . ...........Cody Carpenter
Brassett.......................................Kyle Hutslar
Donna Lucia d’Alvadorez..............Jennifer Riley
Amy Spettigue.............................Alyson Snyder
Kitty Verdun.................................Shayna Hovarter
Ela Delahay..................................Shannon Burkett
Understudy for
Donna Lucia/Amy.........................Riley Augst
Understudy for
Kitty/Ela ......................................Jessica Hargett
he enrolled in music theory and an oral
skills class, which improved his singing
abilities.
“My second semester, I took voice lessons from Gene Hanover. Gene was more
of a Broadway belt and mix voice teacher,
where Mr. Carew was more classical voice
training,” Francis said. “I took the tools
Mr. Carew taught me and added them
to Gene’s teachings. Taking voice lesson
from both of these great teachers gave me
the opportunity to become versatile.”
After two years of being at Southwestern
Michigan, he joined the performing group,
“The Young Americans” based out of Corona,
California. While he was with the Young
Americans, Francis traveled and performed
all over the world in countries such as
Germany, Holland, England, Ireland, France,
Luxemburg, and Scotland, as well as in more
than 15 states in the U.S.
In the summer of 2010, he performed
at the Young Americans Dinner Theatre
at Boyne Highlands Resort in Harbor
Springs. In the fall, Francis moved backed
to Southern California to perform for
Tibbies Dinner Theatre on The Queen
Mary in Long Beach, California in the
production, “Rockin’ Down Broadway.”
After Tibbies, he performed in 2010 in
Palm Springs, California in a Broadway
review show and also a Christmas production. In early March 2011, Francis moved
to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee to perform at
The Grand Majestic Theatre in a show called
“America’s Hit Parade,” which is a musical
review of the ’50s, ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s.
Since moving to Pigeon Forge, he has
had some unique opportunities. He was
part of an opening act for Restless Hearts,
where he sang “You Raise Me Up” to
15,000 people for Pigeon Forge’s annual
4th of July festivities.
“Today, I sing many different styles
of music — classical, Broadway, pop, rock,
and many others,” Francis said. “I use
what David and Gene taught me still to
this day. I am very thankful and blessed
for all the amazing people who have
shaped me into the person I am to be
able to do what I truly love to do — sing
and perform.”
Smart. Close. Affordable.
Campus News
October 4, 2011
The
Southwester
www.swmich.edu.southwester
Volume 48, No. 2, October 4, 2011
SMC
Communication
Program
Published for students, faculty,
staff and friends of
Southwestern Michigan College
58900 Cherry Grove Road
Dowagiac, MI 49047
Niles Area Campus:
33890 U.S.12,
Niles, Mich. 49120
Submissions
Students, faculty and staff of Southwestern
Michigan College are encouraged to sub-
By MARC DOMBROSKY
SMC Art Instructor
“Out of Michigan: Works
by Cranbrook Academy of Art
Alumni” will open on Oct. 10 and
run through Nov. 18 in the SMC
Art Gallery. The exhibit will feature sculptural works by Tim Eads,
as well as a site-based installation
by Expansion & Co. Lab., a collective of artists based in Michigan,
mit story ideas, articles, reviews, photos
Comments, suggestions and letters to
the editor are also welcome. Opinions
expressed are strictly those of the authors
and do not necessarily reflect those of
the management of The Southwester or
Southwestern Michigan College. Letters
to the editor should be no more than 250
words in length, signed and include the
author’s address and phone number.
Submissions may be edited at the editor’s discretion. The Southwester uses
Associated Press style, so readers may
notice differences from “regular” English
usage pertaining to abbreviations, puncsubmissions to:
Colorado, and Pennsylvania. An
artist reception, which is free, will
be held at 12:30 p.m. Wednesday,
Oct. 19, in the gallery.
Tim Eads’ sculptural projects are
temporary, transitional objects.
Utilizing materials ranging from
cable ties and Latex balloons to
wood, paint, and light, this series
of works will be placed tentatively throughout the entire space
responding to the other installations and objects in the environment.
Expansion & Co. Lab. is the collaborative name of four artists:
Brian Giniewski, Drew Ippoliti,
Ariel Brice and Justin Richards.
(Giniewski, Ippoliti and Brice are
all ceramic students who studied
at Cranbrook). They worked with
Richards, an architecture student,
to design a prototype of a hollow
cast porcelain brick that could be
precisely stacked in a number of
different orientations. The work is
titled, “Digital Brick Project.”
Utilizing computerized digital fabrication techniques to
produce the original prototype, they then had 550 of these
bricks produced in Jinghdezhen,
China, the porcelain production
capital of the world, and the same
city that Ai Wei Wei’s “Sunflower
Seed” piece at the Tate was produced.
One of the artists who designed
this project, Brian Giniewski, will
be arriving on campus the week
Tim Eads, “Peppy,” 2009
THE SOUTHWESTER
c/o College Services Building
Room 2105,
Southwestern Michigan College
58900 Cherry Grove Road
Dowagiac, MI 49047.
TELEPHONE
(269) 782-1457
FAX
(269) 782-1446
E-MAIL
swester@swmich.edu.
Page 11
Cranbrook Academy of Art
alumni open exhibit at SMC
and/or graphic images to The Southwester.
tuation and capitalization. Send editorial
The Southwester
Expansion & Co. Lab., “Digital Brick Project,” 2011 Porcelain, dimensions variable, installation views.
The Southwester
Editorial Staff
EDITOR
Ann Burch
SMC Board
of Trustees
Dr. Fred L. Mathews, Chairman
Keith McKenzie, Vice Chairman
William White, Secretary
Thomas F. Jerdon, Treasurer
Beth J. Cripe, Trustee
Paul D. File, Trustee
Jan Kairis, Trustee
College President
Dr. David M. Mathews
Southwestern Michigan College
is accredited by the Higher Learning
Commission of the North Central
Association of Colleges and Schools.
The Southwester reserves the right
to refuse any content, photograph or
advertisement for any reason.
The Southwester is mailed to all high
school libraries, public libraries around
the region including Indiana and to all
Michigan community colleges.
© Copyright 2011 by
Southwestern Michigan College
Tim Eads’ “Regarding Space,” 2009
prior to the opening to customize the installation to our specific
location. SMC students will be
assisting in this process, and we
hope to have an informal discussion open to the public during the
process.
Tentatively, this will be scheduled for Friday, Oct. 7. An
announcement about the specifics will be posted on our facebook
page, www.facebook.com/pages/
Southwestern-Michigan-CollegeFine-Arts/
Alongside all of these new projects — and complementing many
of our exhibitions this year — will
be a selection of paintings and
prints from the Southwestern
Michigan College Permanent
Collection.
The Art Gallery is located in
the Dale A. Lyons Building, Room
108, on the Dowagiac campus.
Gallery hours are 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Monday through Friday and by
appointment. Admission is free
for the art receptions and the
gallery.
Page 12
The Southwester
Campus News
October 4, 2011
Intramural Sports Schedule
ll Intramural Sports home events are located on Dowagiac campus. Sign-ups and
meetings are located at the Student Activity Center (SAC).
The softball field is located near the Cherry Grove Road entrance, the
soccer field is near East Hall, and the flag football field is located behind the SAC.
Indoor sporting events are held in the SAC gym.
A
Disc Golf Tournament, Arm Wrestle Tourney, & Outdoor Volleyball Tourney TBA.
Oct. 3-7 Pool Tournament sign-up 6 a.m.–11 p.m.
4
6 on 6 Soccer game 3 p.m.
5
7 on 7 Flag Football game 4 p.m.
6
Slow-Pitch Softball game 4:30 p.m.
6
6 on 6 Soccer game 3 p.m.
10
7 on 7 Flag Football game 4 p.m.
11
Pool Tournament 6 a.m.–11 p.m.
12
7 on 7 Flag Football playoffs 4 p.m.
13
Slow-Pitch Softball game 4:30 p.m.
13
6 on 6 soccer game 3 p.m.
17-28 Madden Tournament sign-up 6 a.m.–11 p.m.
18
6 on 6 Soccer game 3 p.m.
19
Women’s Powderpuff Bowl 3 p.m.
19
SMC vs. Goshen Men’s Soccer 5 p.m.
20
Slow-Pitch Softball game 4:30 p.m.
20
6 on 6 Soccer Playoffs 3 p.m.
24
SMC @ Andrews Women’s Soccer 5:30 p.m.
24
SMC @ Andrews Men’s Soccer 7:30 p.m.
31
Madden Tournament 6 a.m.–11 p.m.
PHOTOS/VERNON AUSTIN