ECC's Bond Referendum has passed; after a long night of ballot counting that carried beyond 1:00 AM, the referendum was approved by a margin of only 29 votes.
The vote total came to19,456 residents in support of the plan, and 19,427 opposing it. The $178 million plan will renovate the library and student resource center, build a health careers center and several other projects detailed in articles from our March edition, listed below.
More referendum and trustee election coverage to in the April edition of the ECC Observer, on racks and online on April 27.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Referendum in perspective: How ECC will spend the money
Should the Bond Referendum pass on April 7, ECC will be granted
a total amount of $178 million from community taxpayers. This
chart breaks down ECC’s plans for the money (all monetary
amounts in millions).
Graph by Jessica Hagendorn
a total amount of $178 million from community taxpayers. This
chart breaks down ECC’s plans for the money (all monetary
amounts in millions).
Graph by Jessica Hagendorn
ECC to start weekend classes
Chester Roush
Staff Writer
In order to better accomodate student availability, ECC will offer more weekend courses during the fall 2009 semester. These courses will range from Associates Degree to occupational courses, with visual and performing arts classes on Sundays.
“Coming to school [on] weekends, for a lot of people, is something they would prefer to do,” said Vince Pelletier, Vice President of Teaching, Learning and Student Development.
In addition to expanding its weekend class roster, ECC is also trying to extend its support services, such as the library or bookstore, to the weekend.
“We’ve had meetings with the library, meetings with the deans, and meetings with the cabinet,” said Pelletier. “We’re putting together all the support services. It’ll be more extensive than what we already have.”
The new weekend classes will mostly be taught by teachers who already teach on the weekend.
“It’s not really a new program, it’s just pulling existing things together into a new initiative,” said Sarah Dye, the president of the ECC Faculty Union.
Staff Writer
In order to better accomodate student availability, ECC will offer more weekend courses during the fall 2009 semester. These courses will range from Associates Degree to occupational courses, with visual and performing arts classes on Sundays.
“Coming to school [on] weekends, for a lot of people, is something they would prefer to do,” said Vince Pelletier, Vice President of Teaching, Learning and Student Development.
In addition to expanding its weekend class roster, ECC is also trying to extend its support services, such as the library or bookstore, to the weekend.
“We’ve had meetings with the library, meetings with the deans, and meetings with the cabinet,” said Pelletier. “We’re putting together all the support services. It’ll be more extensive than what we already have.”
The new weekend classes will mostly be taught by teachers who already teach on the weekend.
“It’s not really a new program, it’s just pulling existing things together into a new initiative,” said Sarah Dye, the president of the ECC Faculty Union.
Down to the wire: Referendum, trustees await voters’ decision
Jessica Hagendorn
Advertising/Marketing Director
The ATC Auditorium hosted a panel of moderated discussion between candidates running for two vacant seats on ECC’s Board of Trustees as well as about the upcoming District 509 Bond Referendum.
If passed, the referendum will provide ECC with $178 million, with $156.6 million going toward a new health careers center, a library and learning center, public safety training facilities for the region, a new multipurpose classroom center, and to renovate the Student Resource Center, which is the oldest building on campus.
The increase to tax payers will be minimal, with the tax level remaining below where it was five years ago. The property tax will be about 23 dollars more annually for those with property worth $200,000.
None of the money provided by the referendum would be used to pay for the operating costs of the new buildings; tuition increases, starting in 2011, will cover those costs.
As for the trustees, Both Robert Getz and Diane Stredde’s terms are ending, and while Stredde is not running for re-election on April 7, Getz is running to reclaim his seat, fighting newcomers Dr. Donna Schuring-Redmer, Rick Green, and Robin Lisboa.
At the panel each candidate was given ten minutes to introduce themselves to the audience. They also covered the most basic questions voters typically ask in that time slot: Why do they want to be part of the Board of Trustees? Can they put in the time? What would their strengths as a Board Member be?
“I just love ECC,” said Schuring-Redmer, a retired educator and ECC graduate herself. “It has given me the opportunity to develop my own career.”
Three of Redmer’s five children and her step-daughter have also graduated with degrees from ECC.
Green, also a graduate of the college, returned to teach in the automotive department and retired after 30 years. He’s now a part-time ECC student and takes classes with some of his former students.
“I try very hard to look at both sides of an issue, and ask the right questions of the right people,” Green said.
The incumbent Getz highlighted fiscal responsibility as a characteristic of a trustee.
“The reason I wish to continue to participate in the role of Trustee is to assist the college in supporting our state and nation as it recovers from the current financial crisis,” said Getz.
If reelected, Getz would enter his second six-year term. He said one of his goals for his second term is to build a ten-acre complex near the golf course adjacent to ECC’s main campus where soldiers can live with their families while attending ECC.
Lisboa is a local educator. She was the Director of Project S.T.E.P., has taught at both the elementary and college levels, and is currently a public policy administrator for the state.
“I want to be an ECC Trustee because I want to ensure my community provides every individual, who chooses to pursue a post-secondary education, the opportunity to attend an institution that is accessible, supportive and committed to helping them complete their educational goals,” said Lisboa.
After introductions, the floor was opened up to questions from the audience. The students did not ask questions of the candidates, but the faculty and staff had a lot they wished to know.
“What should [ECC] stop doing?” Sarah Dye, President of the Faculty Union, asked. “What should we continue doing? What should we start doing?”
Redmer had some very specific answers on what the college needs to do to improve, such as the need to start working with students as young as fourth-graders.
“There was a heavy concentration on [high school] seniors, and that’s way too late to get these students involved,” Redmer said.
ECC’s Director of Performing Arts Steve Duchrow wanted to know what the candidates’ views on acceptance into the college were.
“Does everyone have a right to education at this college or do we limit it to certain groups?” Duchrow asked.
“It’s a community college,” Getz replied. “It’s for the entire community.”
Advertising/Marketing Director
The ATC Auditorium hosted a panel of moderated discussion between candidates running for two vacant seats on ECC’s Board of Trustees as well as about the upcoming District 509 Bond Referendum.
If passed, the referendum will provide ECC with $178 million, with $156.6 million going toward a new health careers center, a library and learning center, public safety training facilities for the region, a new multipurpose classroom center, and to renovate the Student Resource Center, which is the oldest building on campus.
The increase to tax payers will be minimal, with the tax level remaining below where it was five years ago. The property tax will be about 23 dollars more annually for those with property worth $200,000.
None of the money provided by the referendum would be used to pay for the operating costs of the new buildings; tuition increases, starting in 2011, will cover those costs.
As for the trustees, Both Robert Getz and Diane Stredde’s terms are ending, and while Stredde is not running for re-election on April 7, Getz is running to reclaim his seat, fighting newcomers Dr. Donna Schuring-Redmer, Rick Green, and Robin Lisboa.
At the panel each candidate was given ten minutes to introduce themselves to the audience. They also covered the most basic questions voters typically ask in that time slot: Why do they want to be part of the Board of Trustees? Can they put in the time? What would their strengths as a Board Member be?
“I just love ECC,” said Schuring-Redmer, a retired educator and ECC graduate herself. “It has given me the opportunity to develop my own career.”
Three of Redmer’s five children and her step-daughter have also graduated with degrees from ECC.
Green, also a graduate of the college, returned to teach in the automotive department and retired after 30 years. He’s now a part-time ECC student and takes classes with some of his former students.
“I try very hard to look at both sides of an issue, and ask the right questions of the right people,” Green said.
The incumbent Getz highlighted fiscal responsibility as a characteristic of a trustee.
“The reason I wish to continue to participate in the role of Trustee is to assist the college in supporting our state and nation as it recovers from the current financial crisis,” said Getz.
If reelected, Getz would enter his second six-year term. He said one of his goals for his second term is to build a ten-acre complex near the golf course adjacent to ECC’s main campus where soldiers can live with their families while attending ECC.
Lisboa is a local educator. She was the Director of Project S.T.E.P., has taught at both the elementary and college levels, and is currently a public policy administrator for the state.
“I want to be an ECC Trustee because I want to ensure my community provides every individual, who chooses to pursue a post-secondary education, the opportunity to attend an institution that is accessible, supportive and committed to helping them complete their educational goals,” said Lisboa.
After introductions, the floor was opened up to questions from the audience. The students did not ask questions of the candidates, but the faculty and staff had a lot they wished to know.
“What should [ECC] stop doing?” Sarah Dye, President of the Faculty Union, asked. “What should we continue doing? What should we start doing?”
Redmer had some very specific answers on what the college needs to do to improve, such as the need to start working with students as young as fourth-graders.
“There was a heavy concentration on [high school] seniors, and that’s way too late to get these students involved,” Redmer said.
ECC’s Director of Performing Arts Steve Duchrow wanted to know what the candidates’ views on acceptance into the college were.
“Does everyone have a right to education at this college or do we limit it to certain groups?” Duchrow asked.
“It’s a community college,” Getz replied. “It’s for the entire community.”
New course finds 'natural' strengths
Stephanie Gotter
Staff Writer
The Establishing Leaders course at ECC kicked off on February 20. Led by Amy Beth Maurer, the class is designed to explore leadership qualities in students. The course approach is that student leaders don’t necessarily need leadership experience; more important are the leadership qualities within students.
Maurer, who works for Student Life at ECC, wants the class to focus on what qualities the students already have and expand on them. Maurer believes that too often bosses, teachers and elders tend to focus on the negative aspects of one’s performance, when attention to one’s strengths could make a huge difference in overall performance.
The class is a very intimate group of about ten. Maurer likes the class this size as the students come to know each other better and get more comfortable with themselves. Half of the class focuses on learning what strengths a person already has, while the next half of the class is spent on how to apply those strengths.
The class is also designed to show that anyone can be a leader.
In the book for the class, StrengthsQuest, by Donald O. Clifton and Edward Anderson, the theme is that one does not need to be well-rounded in every part of their life.
Instead, one should focus on what they are already good at and become stronger in that aspect, in turn making them naturally well-rounded.
Maurer emphasizes that “strengths are natural,” and said we need to build our connection with others in positive, strong relationships.
“The greatest leaders build healthy relationships with others,” Maurer said.
Staff Writer
The Establishing Leaders course at ECC kicked off on February 20. Led by Amy Beth Maurer, the class is designed to explore leadership qualities in students. The course approach is that student leaders don’t necessarily need leadership experience; more important are the leadership qualities within students.
Maurer, who works for Student Life at ECC, wants the class to focus on what qualities the students already have and expand on them. Maurer believes that too often bosses, teachers and elders tend to focus on the negative aspects of one’s performance, when attention to one’s strengths could make a huge difference in overall performance.
The class is a very intimate group of about ten. Maurer likes the class this size as the students come to know each other better and get more comfortable with themselves. Half of the class focuses on learning what strengths a person already has, while the next half of the class is spent on how to apply those strengths.
The class is also designed to show that anyone can be a leader.
In the book for the class, StrengthsQuest, by Donald O. Clifton and Edward Anderson, the theme is that one does not need to be well-rounded in every part of their life.
Instead, one should focus on what they are already good at and become stronger in that aspect, in turn making them naturally well-rounded.
Maurer emphasizes that “strengths are natural,” and said we need to build our connection with others in positive, strong relationships.
“The greatest leaders build healthy relationships with others,” Maurer said.
Alum returns to teach screenwriting class
Jessica Hagendorn
Advertising/Marketing Director
No ‘ing’ words or introductions allowed. This is just one rule students learned in a special screenwriting course recently offered at ECC. The classes were taught by Mat Elfring, who also taught a special class on comic books this time last year. Elfring noted the common student’s ignorance to screenwriting practices.
“Most people just know creative writing, novel writing, poetry,” said Elfring.
Originally a short story writer himself, Elfring was encouraged to pursue writing scripts by ECC English instructor Rachel Tecza when he was a student. Now he holds a degree in it as well as in critical film analysis.
The course was spread out over three sessions that covered the basics of screen writing and the industry. The first class focused on pre-writing, the second was about formatting and the last was about revising and selling a script.
“Here’s what a bad script looks like,” Elfring said as the last class started. “It’s one of mine.” Then he let the four students pick his work apart, exercising what they’d already learned.
“I wouldn’t mind it [the course] being a regular class,” student Jake Pauling said. Pauling is also taking a fiction writing class this semester.
Becky Teets, another student in the class, agreed.
“I think he has a lot of good information, more than he can share in three nights, unfortunately,” Teets said.
It is uncertain whether or not the course will be brought back next year, although Elfring is looking into the possibility of creating a critiquing group, not unlike the Creative Writing Club, specifically for script writers.
However, according to Elfring, writing a script and getting it made into a movie are two completely different things. In his opinion, the chances are near zero.
“You have to be amazing at what you do, and have a second job,” Elfring said.
Advertising/Marketing Director
No ‘ing’ words or introductions allowed. This is just one rule students learned in a special screenwriting course recently offered at ECC. The classes were taught by Mat Elfring, who also taught a special class on comic books this time last year. Elfring noted the common student’s ignorance to screenwriting practices.
“Most people just know creative writing, novel writing, poetry,” said Elfring.
Originally a short story writer himself, Elfring was encouraged to pursue writing scripts by ECC English instructor Rachel Tecza when he was a student. Now he holds a degree in it as well as in critical film analysis.
The course was spread out over three sessions that covered the basics of screen writing and the industry. The first class focused on pre-writing, the second was about formatting and the last was about revising and selling a script.
“Here’s what a bad script looks like,” Elfring said as the last class started. “It’s one of mine.” Then he let the four students pick his work apart, exercising what they’d already learned.
“I wouldn’t mind it [the course] being a regular class,” student Jake Pauling said. Pauling is also taking a fiction writing class this semester.
Becky Teets, another student in the class, agreed.
“I think he has a lot of good information, more than he can share in three nights, unfortunately,” Teets said.
It is uncertain whether or not the course will be brought back next year, although Elfring is looking into the possibility of creating a critiquing group, not unlike the Creative Writing Club, specifically for script writers.
However, according to Elfring, writing a script and getting it made into a movie are two completely different things. In his opinion, the chances are near zero.
“You have to be amazing at what you do, and have a second job,” Elfring said.
Election Endorsements: Students should elect Redmer, Green and pass referendum
Staff Editorial
With local elections coming on April 7, the Observer would like to endorse candidates for the election of two trustees to the ECC Board of Trustees. Four candidates are running for the seats: encumbant Bob Getz, Robin Lisboa, Richard Green and Dr. Donna Schuring-Redmer.
Green, an Elgin resident and a graduate of ECC, served the school for 30 years as an automotive professor, and is now a part-time student. There is no reason he should be limited to this role in our college.
As a trustee, students can expect Green to bring his three decades of hands-on experience with students and faculty to the table as a factor in his decision making. Being a student at the college will also bring a students perspective to the boardroom. Green has also expressed concern over college affordability and has supported working with state legislators and pursuing grants to help lower tuition.
Dr. Redmer is also a fine choice to represent the community in the Board.
Redmer, a retired teacher with a doctorate in Educational Leadership, graduated from ECC with an Associate degree in 1976, and is currently involved with Kane County’s Office of Education Support, as well as Dundee-Crown High School’s restructuring plan. Redmer not only worked in education as both a teacher and adminstrator, but is a co-owner of a family business.
Both Redmer and Green support the passing of the $178 million bond referendum, also on the ballot on April 7, and stress the need to renovate the library with the money, should the referendum pass.
This sentiment is undoubtedly representative of much of the student body and faculty. Our library is insufficiently funded and entirely too small. As Dr. Sam said at ECC’s Founder’s Brunch, our library is smaller than many high school libraries.
Also on the list of changes expected if the referendum passes, are a new health careers center, a library and learning center, public safety training facilities for the region, a new multipurpose classroom center and a renovation for the Student Resources Center, which outdates any other building on campus.
And while the referendum will result in a small tax increase, about $23 dollars for taxpayers with $200,000 in property, the tax level will still be lower than they were in 2003.
Our community colleges supposed to be partially funded by taxpayers in an effort to provide quality, affordable education to those very same taxpayers. There is no reason we, as students, should pass on the improvements we will surely see with the passing of the referendum, only because we want to save a few dollars a month.
With local elections coming on April 7, the Observer would like to endorse candidates for the election of two trustees to the ECC Board of Trustees. Four candidates are running for the seats: encumbant Bob Getz, Robin Lisboa, Richard Green and Dr. Donna Schuring-Redmer.
Green, an Elgin resident and a graduate of ECC, served the school for 30 years as an automotive professor, and is now a part-time student. There is no reason he should be limited to this role in our college.
As a trustee, students can expect Green to bring his three decades of hands-on experience with students and faculty to the table as a factor in his decision making. Being a student at the college will also bring a students perspective to the boardroom. Green has also expressed concern over college affordability and has supported working with state legislators and pursuing grants to help lower tuition.
Dr. Redmer is also a fine choice to represent the community in the Board.
Redmer, a retired teacher with a doctorate in Educational Leadership, graduated from ECC with an Associate degree in 1976, and is currently involved with Kane County’s Office of Education Support, as well as Dundee-Crown High School’s restructuring plan. Redmer not only worked in education as both a teacher and adminstrator, but is a co-owner of a family business.
Both Redmer and Green support the passing of the $178 million bond referendum, also on the ballot on April 7, and stress the need to renovate the library with the money, should the referendum pass.
This sentiment is undoubtedly representative of much of the student body and faculty. Our library is insufficiently funded and entirely too small. As Dr. Sam said at ECC’s Founder’s Brunch, our library is smaller than many high school libraries.
Also on the list of changes expected if the referendum passes, are a new health careers center, a library and learning center, public safety training facilities for the region, a new multipurpose classroom center and a renovation for the Student Resources Center, which outdates any other building on campus.
And while the referendum will result in a small tax increase, about $23 dollars for taxpayers with $200,000 in property, the tax level will still be lower than they were in 2003.
Our community colleges supposed to be partially funded by taxpayers in an effort to provide quality, affordable education to those very same taxpayers. There is no reason we, as students, should pass on the improvements we will surely see with the passing of the referendum, only because we want to save a few dollars a month.
Silence useless in provoking change
Jessica Hagendorn
Advertising/Marketing Director
I am a voice. In a world where there are so many things that people can’t say, it is the duty of those of us who can speak out to do so. Yet, there are so many times when I stand by and say nothing at all. What difference can my words make, I think.
If people don’t say something how will problems ever be brought to light, discussed, solved? It doesn’t matter if it’s spoken to a friend, discussed at an Amnesty International meeting, or published in a newspaper as long as we just say something.
“If the stories aren’t being told, then the discussion stops and that’s where we get into ugly territory,” said Leslie Berestein, an immigration reporter from the San Diego Union-Tribune.
Who are the silent majority? The people who can vote but don’t. Those who are in emotionally unhealthy relationships but remain silent. Christians who let the bigoted among them speak for the compassionate rest. So why do they remain silent? Why do we? Most of us are classified as part of a silent majority. What is the person in the next chair not saying, I wonder. Perhaps something amazing would happen if only he’d speak.
If Gandhi had decided it was better not to say a word perhaps India would still be controlled by Britain. There might have been no Martin Luther King Jr., at least not as we know him, and no Civil Rights movement, had King decided to remain silent. If Jason Russell, Bobby Bailey, and Laren Poole, three California college students, had decided to say nothing about what they saw in Uganda, the film “Invisible Children: Rough Cut” might never have been made. The non-profit group probably wouldn’t exist, and thousands of children might still be fighting. The band Barlow Girls has a line in their song “Million Voices,” that says “We’re the million voices breaking silence/‘til they’ll remember we were here.”
One voice can become an hundred voices, then a million, and then, maybe, something will change. If that single person never breaks the silence, though, and stays a part of the silent majority, nothing will ever happen. I am a voice. We are all a voice.
Advertising/Marketing Director
I am a voice. In a world where there are so many things that people can’t say, it is the duty of those of us who can speak out to do so. Yet, there are so many times when I stand by and say nothing at all. What difference can my words make, I think.
If people don’t say something how will problems ever be brought to light, discussed, solved? It doesn’t matter if it’s spoken to a friend, discussed at an Amnesty International meeting, or published in a newspaper as long as we just say something.
“If the stories aren’t being told, then the discussion stops and that’s where we get into ugly territory,” said Leslie Berestein, an immigration reporter from the San Diego Union-Tribune.
Who are the silent majority? The people who can vote but don’t. Those who are in emotionally unhealthy relationships but remain silent. Christians who let the bigoted among them speak for the compassionate rest. So why do they remain silent? Why do we? Most of us are classified as part of a silent majority. What is the person in the next chair not saying, I wonder. Perhaps something amazing would happen if only he’d speak.
If Gandhi had decided it was better not to say a word perhaps India would still be controlled by Britain. There might have been no Martin Luther King Jr., at least not as we know him, and no Civil Rights movement, had King decided to remain silent. If Jason Russell, Bobby Bailey, and Laren Poole, three California college students, had decided to say nothing about what they saw in Uganda, the film “Invisible Children: Rough Cut” might never have been made. The non-profit group probably wouldn’t exist, and thousands of children might still be fighting. The band Barlow Girls has a line in their song “Million Voices,” that says “We’re the million voices breaking silence/‘til they’ll remember we were here.”
One voice can become an hundred voices, then a million, and then, maybe, something will change. If that single person never breaks the silence, though, and stays a part of the silent majority, nothing will ever happen. I am a voice. We are all a voice.
Much opportunity to be found in crisis
Kathrine Moser
Staff Writer
Today’s unpredictable stock market, high unemployment rates, rising gas prices and escalating foreclosures can make one feel more emotional than rational.
A couple months ago I was talking to my friend about predictions Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley and Actor/Filmmaker/Nixon speechwriter Ben Stein made when discussing the economy.
They predicted if things did not improve, we would soon be heading for a depression. One of my friends, who is not typically pessimistic, had this to say: “We are in times that we have not been in before. Therefore, it is impossible to predict what is going to happen.”
At first, I did not understand his optimistic philosophy. After all, Mayor Daley is the mayor of Chicago, and he has knowledge about the results of the kind of fallout we are facing.
My friend then explained to me everyone in life has the same opportunity as the next person to make money. Sure these are brave, heroic words to utter, but do they really hold true? In the following days, I gave our conversation much thought.
Then one day it hit me, and I understood what he meant. As I recounted in my journal, the Chinese word for crisis is opportunity.
Successful people are successful because they look for opportunities in times of crisis. Instead of feeling self pity, they take action. They look for ways to improve the situation. They take a rational approach instead of an emotional one.
Currently we are all in uncertain and perilous times. There is no telling when things are going to get better, or what it will take to turn things around. Keeping a positive attitude can help. If we steer clear of being emotional, we will be less stressed out, and this can result in fewer health problems.
By remaining rational and finishing our (albeit expensive) educations instead of dropping out of school, we can retain our opportunities to get better jobs when this economic crisis is over.
Not everything happening in these hard times is negative. We all hear about the big box companies (such as Circuit City) going out of business; this could be an opportunity for new, stronger businesses to open. Families have been in despair, but with this economic crisis, there has been a chance to bring the family unit together again.
In the past, the economy has always had its ups and downs. If we remember to keep a vigilant attitude by being rational instead of emotional, it will make us stronger in the process and get us through these hard times.
Staff Writer
Today’s unpredictable stock market, high unemployment rates, rising gas prices and escalating foreclosures can make one feel more emotional than rational.
A couple months ago I was talking to my friend about predictions Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley and Actor/Filmmaker/Nixon speechwriter Ben Stein made when discussing the economy.
They predicted if things did not improve, we would soon be heading for a depression. One of my friends, who is not typically pessimistic, had this to say: “We are in times that we have not been in before. Therefore, it is impossible to predict what is going to happen.”
At first, I did not understand his optimistic philosophy. After all, Mayor Daley is the mayor of Chicago, and he has knowledge about the results of the kind of fallout we are facing.
My friend then explained to me everyone in life has the same opportunity as the next person to make money. Sure these are brave, heroic words to utter, but do they really hold true? In the following days, I gave our conversation much thought.
Then one day it hit me, and I understood what he meant. As I recounted in my journal, the Chinese word for crisis is opportunity.
Successful people are successful because they look for opportunities in times of crisis. Instead of feeling self pity, they take action. They look for ways to improve the situation. They take a rational approach instead of an emotional one.
Currently we are all in uncertain and perilous times. There is no telling when things are going to get better, or what it will take to turn things around. Keeping a positive attitude can help. If we steer clear of being emotional, we will be less stressed out, and this can result in fewer health problems.
By remaining rational and finishing our (albeit expensive) educations instead of dropping out of school, we can retain our opportunities to get better jobs when this economic crisis is over.
Not everything happening in these hard times is negative. We all hear about the big box companies (such as Circuit City) going out of business; this could be an opportunity for new, stronger businesses to open. Families have been in despair, but with this economic crisis, there has been a chance to bring the family unit together again.
In the past, the economy has always had its ups and downs. If we remember to keep a vigilant attitude by being rational instead of emotional, it will make us stronger in the process and get us through these hard times.
Facebook eligibility debate continues
Maria Bourlokas
Staff Writer
Facebook has been a popular networking website since 2004. The website was created primarily for college students, but is used for professional networking, finding old classmates, and for anyone wanting to keep in touch with family and friends. Now in 2008, Facebook’s servers are home to 224 million users, aged from high school and college students to senior citizens. When it was created, Facebook required prospective members to have a college e-mail address, like johnsmith@ college.com. However, on September 26th 2006, Facebook opened their site to the general public.
The main reason many students are using facebook today is to keep in touch with friends from high school, and those who have gone away to a different college. When asked why they used facebook instead of MySpace, students gave several reasons.
“I use it more often cause it’s not full of too much junk and you can chat with whoever you want,” ECC student Casey Dezwijger said. “It tells you when people are online, It’s like AIM (AOL instant messanger) and MySpace mixed together, (like the) best of both worlds”
As the internet becomes more abundant in households, parents have begun to join Facebook to monitor their children. A debate has been raging since Facebook’s switch to public membership, and some students are a bit cautious about the idea of their parents, aunts or uncles and even their bosses being able to view their profiles.
“I really don’t mind having family members on Facebook, it’s a fun way to share pictures and stuff with family,” ECC student Jana Smith said. “But it’s also a little weird that your mom can see everything you’re doing.”
Some of the newly eligible adults agree with this idea. As ECC teacher Anna Lalley believes, for children under 17 that are still living at home, if the parents want to inspect their profile, they should be allowed to do so.
“Those 18+ should be allowed to display anything they may like, because they are an adult,” Lalley said.
Jake Burau, an ECC student who uses Facebook for convenience, agreed.
“Since I’m on my own, I don’t see my family very often, so having Facebook keeps us in touch without wasting so many of our minutes,” Burau said.
Staff Writer
Facebook has been a popular networking website since 2004. The website was created primarily for college students, but is used for professional networking, finding old classmates, and for anyone wanting to keep in touch with family and friends. Now in 2008, Facebook’s servers are home to 224 million users, aged from high school and college students to senior citizens. When it was created, Facebook required prospective members to have a college e-mail address, like johnsmith@ college.com. However, on September 26th 2006, Facebook opened their site to the general public.
The main reason many students are using facebook today is to keep in touch with friends from high school, and those who have gone away to a different college. When asked why they used facebook instead of MySpace, students gave several reasons.
“I use it more often cause it’s not full of too much junk and you can chat with whoever you want,” ECC student Casey Dezwijger said. “It tells you when people are online, It’s like AIM (AOL instant messanger) and MySpace mixed together, (like the) best of both worlds”
As the internet becomes more abundant in households, parents have begun to join Facebook to monitor their children. A debate has been raging since Facebook’s switch to public membership, and some students are a bit cautious about the idea of their parents, aunts or uncles and even their bosses being able to view their profiles.
“I really don’t mind having family members on Facebook, it’s a fun way to share pictures and stuff with family,” ECC student Jana Smith said. “But it’s also a little weird that your mom can see everything you’re doing.”
Some of the newly eligible adults agree with this idea. As ECC teacher Anna Lalley believes, for children under 17 that are still living at home, if the parents want to inspect their profile, they should be allowed to do so.
“Those 18+ should be allowed to display anything they may like, because they are an adult,” Lalley said.
Jake Burau, an ECC student who uses Facebook for convenience, agreed.
“Since I’m on my own, I don’t see my family very often, so having Facebook keeps us in touch without wasting so many of our minutes,” Burau said.
Bulls legend speaks at UBC
All photos by Conor Clarke
Love enters the University and Business Center’s
Seigle Auditorium on March 18.
Love speaks with passion about his life struggles,
which he wrote about in The Bob Love Story: If It’s
Gonna Be, It’s Up to Me, published in 1999.
Bulls legend Bob Love signs a calendar for a
young fan after his motivational speech.
Love gives an autograph to ECC women’s basketball
coach Jerry McLaughlin
James Ayello
Staff Writer
Sometimes, certain stories only seem to exist in Hollywood. Only in a movie script would a man begin his life at the bottom of society, rise to its summit, fall back down to where he started and then rise to the top once more. But some men live those stories, and the Elgin community met one of them on March 18 when former Chicago Bull Bob Love came to ECC’s University Business Center. Love spoke to students, faculty and community members in a motivational speech that detailed parts of his life.
When he was a child, Love had a dream: he was dribbling by and scoring on the greatest basketball stars in the world. In reality, however, he was playing alone with a ball composed of his grandfather’s old rolled-up socks and stuffed with grass; he was shooting into a stretched-out coat hanger nailed to the side of a house in Bastrop, Louisiana. Love’s dream would be one that he would later make into reality. Imagination was never the problem for Love; if he wanted to, he could imagine himself as Doctor Martin Luther King or President John F. Kennedy, giving a speech to a mass of eager Americans hanging on his every word. This dream too would come true—just not as easily as his basketball one.
“All those (accolades) that I received when I was playing: the All-Americans, the All-Stars, the All-Pros,” Love said during his speech. “You know what, I would like to give it all back… for the mere fact that I’m able to stand here this morning before you and utter one single word… It’s a dream come true.”
Despite having basketball talent that granted him not only a scholarship to Southern University in Louisiana but a spectacular basketball career in the NBA (in which he set many records), Love kept a secret. In his documentary, “Find Yourself a Dream: The Bob Love Story,” it was said that many held a bad opinion about Love.
“He had a reputation of being unapproachable and not giving interviews to the press,” explained the film’s narrator. “In those days many thought he was inarticulate, angry or just plain ignorant. As a young child he was cursed with a debilitating stutter. It was so severe he could utter no more than two words without stuttering incomprehensibly. He rarely spoke in public and only family and close friends accepted him for who he was.”
After ten enormously successful years in the NBA, Love suffered a back injury and was forced to retire. One day, after his second surgery in which the doctor told him he would never walk correctly again, he came home to find his wife had left him and had taken everything of his. She left a note that said she did not want to spend her life with a cripple that couldn’t talk. He was devastated. He had no choice but to go out and get a job to support himself. He became a bus boy and a dishwasher in Seattle, Washington— not a normal career choice for a retired basketball superstar, but with his severe speech impediment, no one would give Love an opportunity.
Love’s obstacles would be enough to derail almost anyone.
However, he decided to stay on track and become the best at what he did. Blocking out all of the whispers of customers that recognized who he used to be, Love became so dedicated to his job that his managers began to take notice. They were so appreciative of his work ethic, they decided they wanted make him a permanent part of the company. They offered to pay for speech therapist to help Love liberate himself from the impediment that had imprisoned him his entire life. Love, waiting for this type of opportunity for his entire life, took the lessons.
Today, Love has made speaking his profession, as he talks to more than 250,000 young people each year, including those students that attended his speech at ECC. He is now the director of Community Affairs for the Chicago Bulls.
Love enters the University and Business Center’s
Seigle Auditorium on March 18.
Love speaks with passion about his life struggles,
which he wrote about in The Bob Love Story: If It’s
Gonna Be, It’s Up to Me, published in 1999.
Bulls legend Bob Love signs a calendar for a
young fan after his motivational speech.
Love gives an autograph to ECC women’s basketball
coach Jerry McLaughlin
James Ayello
Staff Writer
Sometimes, certain stories only seem to exist in Hollywood. Only in a movie script would a man begin his life at the bottom of society, rise to its summit, fall back down to where he started and then rise to the top once more. But some men live those stories, and the Elgin community met one of them on March 18 when former Chicago Bull Bob Love came to ECC’s University Business Center. Love spoke to students, faculty and community members in a motivational speech that detailed parts of his life.
When he was a child, Love had a dream: he was dribbling by and scoring on the greatest basketball stars in the world. In reality, however, he was playing alone with a ball composed of his grandfather’s old rolled-up socks and stuffed with grass; he was shooting into a stretched-out coat hanger nailed to the side of a house in Bastrop, Louisiana. Love’s dream would be one that he would later make into reality. Imagination was never the problem for Love; if he wanted to, he could imagine himself as Doctor Martin Luther King or President John F. Kennedy, giving a speech to a mass of eager Americans hanging on his every word. This dream too would come true—just not as easily as his basketball one.
“All those (accolades) that I received when I was playing: the All-Americans, the All-Stars, the All-Pros,” Love said during his speech. “You know what, I would like to give it all back… for the mere fact that I’m able to stand here this morning before you and utter one single word… It’s a dream come true.”
Despite having basketball talent that granted him not only a scholarship to Southern University in Louisiana but a spectacular basketball career in the NBA (in which he set many records), Love kept a secret. In his documentary, “Find Yourself a Dream: The Bob Love Story,” it was said that many held a bad opinion about Love.
“He had a reputation of being unapproachable and not giving interviews to the press,” explained the film’s narrator. “In those days many thought he was inarticulate, angry or just plain ignorant. As a young child he was cursed with a debilitating stutter. It was so severe he could utter no more than two words without stuttering incomprehensibly. He rarely spoke in public and only family and close friends accepted him for who he was.”
After ten enormously successful years in the NBA, Love suffered a back injury and was forced to retire. One day, after his second surgery in which the doctor told him he would never walk correctly again, he came home to find his wife had left him and had taken everything of his. She left a note that said she did not want to spend her life with a cripple that couldn’t talk. He was devastated. He had no choice but to go out and get a job to support himself. He became a bus boy and a dishwasher in Seattle, Washington— not a normal career choice for a retired basketball superstar, but with his severe speech impediment, no one would give Love an opportunity.
Love’s obstacles would be enough to derail almost anyone.
However, he decided to stay on track and become the best at what he did. Blocking out all of the whispers of customers that recognized who he used to be, Love became so dedicated to his job that his managers began to take notice. They were so appreciative of his work ethic, they decided they wanted make him a permanent part of the company. They offered to pay for speech therapist to help Love liberate himself from the impediment that had imprisoned him his entire life. Love, waiting for this type of opportunity for his entire life, took the lessons.
Today, Love has made speaking his profession, as he talks to more than 250,000 young people each year, including those students that attended his speech at ECC. He is now the director of Community Affairs for the Chicago Bulls.
Budget decorating course offers solutions
Kathrine Moser
Staff Writer
A small group of ECC students took part in a new non-credit class offering knowledge of budget decorating on March 5. The two hour, non-credit course is entitled “Decorating on a Budget.” Instructor Joyce Kocinski offered solutions on the “how-to” of no-cost and low-cost decorating.
According to Kocinski, no-cost decorating is redesign, cleaning the clutter and changing accessories, while low-cost decorating is painting, changing light fixtures or changing furniture at low prices.
Kocinski recommends hiring decorators to decide on a budget and purpose, taking photos of the room, using a design checklist, clearing clutter, rearranging and eliminating furniture, painting, improving lighting and accessorizing.
According to Kocinski, supporting the focal point of the room, improving the conversation area and having sufficient lighting are all using what you have.
The course also discussed eco-friendly decoration using recycled products. According to Kocinski, bamboo, cork and linoleum are all renewable, ecofriendly resources. Bamboo is extremely durable and harder than redwood or maple, while cork and linoleum have recycled content and are good for foot support.
There are also countertop options such as Icestone, Richlite, Kirei and Cambria that are recyclable materials, according to Kocinski.
Kocinski also offered solutions on decorating dilemmas and advised students where to find bargains in local thrift stores and hotel furniture liquidators in the area.
Besides teaching the Decorating on a Budget course at ECC, Kocinski instructs Interior Design with Feng Shui and Clearing Clutter with Feng Shui courses. She received her B.A. in education from the University of Illinois-Chicago, and also has a Master’s Degree in education. In addition, Kocinksi has a degree in Interior Design and has been practicing for more than 20 years.
Student Rachel Mascarella took the Budget Decorating class because she was remodeling her home.
“I’m getting great ideas for my home redesign,” Mascarella said.
Staff Writer
A small group of ECC students took part in a new non-credit class offering knowledge of budget decorating on March 5. The two hour, non-credit course is entitled “Decorating on a Budget.” Instructor Joyce Kocinski offered solutions on the “how-to” of no-cost and low-cost decorating.
According to Kocinski, no-cost decorating is redesign, cleaning the clutter and changing accessories, while low-cost decorating is painting, changing light fixtures or changing furniture at low prices.
Kocinski recommends hiring decorators to decide on a budget and purpose, taking photos of the room, using a design checklist, clearing clutter, rearranging and eliminating furniture, painting, improving lighting and accessorizing.
According to Kocinski, supporting the focal point of the room, improving the conversation area and having sufficient lighting are all using what you have.
The course also discussed eco-friendly decoration using recycled products. According to Kocinski, bamboo, cork and linoleum are all renewable, ecofriendly resources. Bamboo is extremely durable and harder than redwood or maple, while cork and linoleum have recycled content and are good for foot support.
There are also countertop options such as Icestone, Richlite, Kirei and Cambria that are recyclable materials, according to Kocinski.
Kocinski also offered solutions on decorating dilemmas and advised students where to find bargains in local thrift stores and hotel furniture liquidators in the area.
Besides teaching the Decorating on a Budget course at ECC, Kocinski instructs Interior Design with Feng Shui and Clearing Clutter with Feng Shui courses. She received her B.A. in education from the University of Illinois-Chicago, and also has a Master’s Degree in education. In addition, Kocinksi has a degree in Interior Design and has been practicing for more than 20 years.
Student Rachel Mascarella took the Budget Decorating class because she was remodeling her home.
“I’m getting great ideas for my home redesign,” Mascarella said.
Stranger than ‘Fiction:’ an odd but surprising collaboration
Keirstin Westfallen
Staff Writer
Jon Foreman of alt-rock outfit Switchfoot and Sean Watkins of the acoustic trio Nickel Creek walk into a bar. No, this isn’t an overused joke. This is the story of how Foreman and Watkins formed their new collaborative project Fiction Family, whose debut album of the same name combines their respective styles in a way that gives rise to a unique form of cutesy folk-pop.
The disc starts off with its first single, “When She’s Near,” which is about as sickeningly sweet as one can get, although not particularly in an unfortunate way.
Some lyrical clichés aside, the song is still the musical embodiment of the feeling of driving your car around with the windows rolled down.
The contrast between Foreman’s and Watkins’ respective vocals plays out as an advantage for Fiction Family. The fifth and sixth tracks, “Elements Combined” and “War in My Blood,” show off that contrast the most effectively, with Watkins providing the lead vocals on “Elements” and Foreman taking the reins on “War.” Foreman’s vocals are subtle and quirky, carrying any and every melody in an almost nonchalant way. Watkins’ vocals, however, are crisp and clear, giving sustenance to a starving song.
Although not entirely dysfunctional, the Family is still not without its complications. Foreman sings the track “Betrayal," which chronicles a man’s confusing murder of his best friend, in a morbidly matter-of-fact way. While undoubtedly intended to be philosophically provocative, the song ends up feeling only disturbingly deranged, although it does feature breathtaking guitar. “Please Don’t Call it Love” presents another frustrating problem. Amid spot-on and impressive guitar, appropriately paired with melancholy vocals, the song still insists upon falling flat for no apparent reason.
Fiction Family does redeem themselves, however, on many of the album’s additional tracks. “Mostly Prove Me Wrong” stands out as one of its strongest, introducing a breezy melody coupled with lyrics that firmly lodge themselves into a listener’s head. On “Not Sure,” the longing inherent in the lyrics is also poignantly captured though Watkins’ vocals. The album ends on a perfect note with “Look For Me Baby,” a track that blissfully sums up the entire album’s retro feel.
Fiction Family gives off a light and airy vibe, which almost guarantees that it will be remembered by those who actually listen to it. However, it is doubtful whether Fiction Family will be able to attract any new fans and ascend from their moderate obscurity; more than likely, the current listeners of Fiction Family will be comprised of the previous listeners of Foreman’s and Watkins’ respective acts. Although their debut has its problems, Fiction Family still overcomes the initial strangeness of their partnership and surprises with a mostly pleasant collection of songs.
Staff Writer
Jon Foreman of alt-rock outfit Switchfoot and Sean Watkins of the acoustic trio Nickel Creek walk into a bar. No, this isn’t an overused joke. This is the story of how Foreman and Watkins formed their new collaborative project Fiction Family, whose debut album of the same name combines their respective styles in a way that gives rise to a unique form of cutesy folk-pop.
The disc starts off with its first single, “When She’s Near,” which is about as sickeningly sweet as one can get, although not particularly in an unfortunate way.
Some lyrical clichés aside, the song is still the musical embodiment of the feeling of driving your car around with the windows rolled down.
The contrast between Foreman’s and Watkins’ respective vocals plays out as an advantage for Fiction Family. The fifth and sixth tracks, “Elements Combined” and “War in My Blood,” show off that contrast the most effectively, with Watkins providing the lead vocals on “Elements” and Foreman taking the reins on “War.” Foreman’s vocals are subtle and quirky, carrying any and every melody in an almost nonchalant way. Watkins’ vocals, however, are crisp and clear, giving sustenance to a starving song.
Although not entirely dysfunctional, the Family is still not without its complications. Foreman sings the track “Betrayal," which chronicles a man’s confusing murder of his best friend, in a morbidly matter-of-fact way. While undoubtedly intended to be philosophically provocative, the song ends up feeling only disturbingly deranged, although it does feature breathtaking guitar. “Please Don’t Call it Love” presents another frustrating problem. Amid spot-on and impressive guitar, appropriately paired with melancholy vocals, the song still insists upon falling flat for no apparent reason.
Fiction Family does redeem themselves, however, on many of the album’s additional tracks. “Mostly Prove Me Wrong” stands out as one of its strongest, introducing a breezy melody coupled with lyrics that firmly lodge themselves into a listener’s head. On “Not Sure,” the longing inherent in the lyrics is also poignantly captured though Watkins’ vocals. The album ends on a perfect note with “Look For Me Baby,” a track that blissfully sums up the entire album’s retro feel.
Fiction Family gives off a light and airy vibe, which almost guarantees that it will be remembered by those who actually listen to it. However, it is doubtful whether Fiction Family will be able to attract any new fans and ascend from their moderate obscurity; more than likely, the current listeners of Fiction Family will be comprised of the previous listeners of Foreman’s and Watkins’ respective acts. Although their debut has its problems, Fiction Family still overcomes the initial strangeness of their partnership and surprises with a mostly pleasant collection of songs.
Blizzard Auditorium plays host to real ‘guitar hero’
Chester Roush
Staff Writer
Use whatever metaphor you want, but Joe Bonamassa rocked the house.
The blues guitarist played in the ECC Blizzard Auditorium on Saturday, March 7, drawing a diverse crowd of young and old.
The audience responded to the show with great enthusiasm, erupting into applause after each solo, with a standing ovation when Bonamassa played the Gibson “Flying V” electric guitar. Bonamassa’s solo acoustic set also had the audience clapping in time with the rhythm, and throughout the performance people tapped their feet and hands to the music.
Accompanied by Carmine Rojas on drums, Rick Melick on keyboard, and Bogie Bowls on bass, Joe Bonamassa coupled his soulful vocals (filled with such lines as “slow gin, slow gin, wash away the pain, inside”) with truly virtuosic guitar to fashion a great performance. Bonamassa also took time to recall his early days playing at ECC.
“You always remember where you came from,” Bonamassa told the audience between sets.
Bonamassa and his band debuted at the Blizzard Theatre several years ago, an event recalled by Director of Performing Arts Steve Duchrow.
“I’ve had a long history with Joe,” said Duchrow. “[ECC] was the first performing arts center to ever present him back in 2002 or 2003, and this is the fourth or fifth time I’ve presented Joe.”
Staff Writer
Use whatever metaphor you want, but Joe Bonamassa rocked the house.
The blues guitarist played in the ECC Blizzard Auditorium on Saturday, March 7, drawing a diverse crowd of young and old.
The audience responded to the show with great enthusiasm, erupting into applause after each solo, with a standing ovation when Bonamassa played the Gibson “Flying V” electric guitar. Bonamassa’s solo acoustic set also had the audience clapping in time with the rhythm, and throughout the performance people tapped their feet and hands to the music.
Accompanied by Carmine Rojas on drums, Rick Melick on keyboard, and Bogie Bowls on bass, Joe Bonamassa coupled his soulful vocals (filled with such lines as “slow gin, slow gin, wash away the pain, inside”) with truly virtuosic guitar to fashion a great performance. Bonamassa also took time to recall his early days playing at ECC.
“You always remember where you came from,” Bonamassa told the audience between sets.
Bonamassa and his band debuted at the Blizzard Theatre several years ago, an event recalled by Director of Performing Arts Steve Duchrow.
“I’ve had a long history with Joe,” said Duchrow. “[ECC] was the first performing arts center to ever present him back in 2002 or 2003, and this is the fourth or fifth time I’ve presented Joe.”
Refreshing comedy film worthy of plenty of love, man
Nick Johnson
Editor-in-Chief
These days clever, original comedies are a rarity. How many Talladega Nights, Step Brothers and other half-aborted screen children of Will Ferrell must we sit through to get a deserving laugh?
The answer may be six or seven, but that’s what makes refreshing comedies like I Love You, Man so much more captivating. Following in the footsteps of movies like Knocked Up and Forgetting Sarah Marshall, I Love You, Man takes a common social phenomenon—in this case, male friendship—and explores it to the fullest, most bizarre and hilarious detail.
Paul Rudd plays Peter Klaven, a newly-engaged real estate agent who has been a ladies’ man his whole life. Thus, he has an array of underdeveloped social skills when it comes to his male peers. Between projectile vomiting during poker games and leaving awkward, drawn out voicemail messages, Peter finds himself at a loss for whom to name as his best man. Peter soon decides to search for a ‘best friend,’ if for only the sake of his wedding. After several failed, albeit humorous, ‘man-dates’ orchestrated by both himself and his gay brother, Peter is about to give up his search.
Then, at an open house for a property he’s trying to sell, he meets Sydney Fife (Jason Segel), an observant, honest and laid-back investor. This intrigues Peter, and the two of them begin a series of bromantic liasons that include flamboyantly rocking out to Rush, disregarding public policy about pet droppings and picking fights with washed-up superhero actors. Rudd’s clumsy, awful brocabulary leads to situations that may have some squirming and wincing in their seats just from sheer awkwardness; thankfully, Segel’s character’s non-chalant, occasionally abrasive truthfulness and cool-guy lingo start to rub off on his friend as the film goes on.
I Love You, Man is unique in that it portrays long-term friendships as not all that different from long-term, romantic relationships—both require time, dedication and enthusiasm. Plus, as the film comically points out, there can be falling-outs that require the return of borrowed possessions. I Love You, Man also explores a question routinely wondered by couples: how much time is truly okay to spend with friends when you’re in a romantic relationship? With both having many of the same needs, conflict is inevitable.
Though it didn’t stray from the typical comedy movie ending with a slapstick cast reunion, the plot of I Love You, Man was (for the most part) void of any radical, nonsensical turns. The film stuck with amusing portrayals of situations that common people find in their everyday lives while simultaneously dissecting the best-friendship under an entirely different, pseudo-romantic light.
Well, that and it had people stepping in dog poo.
Editor-in-Chief
These days clever, original comedies are a rarity. How many Talladega Nights, Step Brothers and other half-aborted screen children of Will Ferrell must we sit through to get a deserving laugh?
The answer may be six or seven, but that’s what makes refreshing comedies like I Love You, Man so much more captivating. Following in the footsteps of movies like Knocked Up and Forgetting Sarah Marshall, I Love You, Man takes a common social phenomenon—in this case, male friendship—and explores it to the fullest, most bizarre and hilarious detail.
Paul Rudd plays Peter Klaven, a newly-engaged real estate agent who has been a ladies’ man his whole life. Thus, he has an array of underdeveloped social skills when it comes to his male peers. Between projectile vomiting during poker games and leaving awkward, drawn out voicemail messages, Peter finds himself at a loss for whom to name as his best man. Peter soon decides to search for a ‘best friend,’ if for only the sake of his wedding. After several failed, albeit humorous, ‘man-dates’ orchestrated by both himself and his gay brother, Peter is about to give up his search.
Then, at an open house for a property he’s trying to sell, he meets Sydney Fife (Jason Segel), an observant, honest and laid-back investor. This intrigues Peter, and the two of them begin a series of bromantic liasons that include flamboyantly rocking out to Rush, disregarding public policy about pet droppings and picking fights with washed-up superhero actors. Rudd’s clumsy, awful brocabulary leads to situations that may have some squirming and wincing in their seats just from sheer awkwardness; thankfully, Segel’s character’s non-chalant, occasionally abrasive truthfulness and cool-guy lingo start to rub off on his friend as the film goes on.
I Love You, Man is unique in that it portrays long-term friendships as not all that different from long-term, romantic relationships—both require time, dedication and enthusiasm. Plus, as the film comically points out, there can be falling-outs that require the return of borrowed possessions. I Love You, Man also explores a question routinely wondered by couples: how much time is truly okay to spend with friends when you’re in a romantic relationship? With both having many of the same needs, conflict is inevitable.
Though it didn’t stray from the typical comedy movie ending with a slapstick cast reunion, the plot of I Love You, Man was (for the most part) void of any radical, nonsensical turns. The film stuck with amusing portrayals of situations that common people find in their everyday lives while simultaneously dissecting the best-friendship under an entirely different, pseudo-romantic light.
Well, that and it had people stepping in dog poo.
Fighting keeps hockey safer...seriously
Ian Neitzke
Managing Editor
Several general managers in the National Hockey League have debated at league meetings about removing legal fighting from professional hockey. The anti-fighting movement has gotten stronger following the death of a minor league hockey player in Canada. Don Sanderson, 21, of the Whitby Dunlops fell at the conclusion of a fight, hit his head on the ice and was killed. While this tragedy should cause us to look at fighting in hockey, it shouldn’t be used as a reason to remove fighting entirely. Fighting is a classic part of hockey. Die-hard fans love it; they understand it’s importance. Those who don’t enjoy the strategy of hockey can always enjoy some fist-on-face figure skating.
Fighting is often used to change the tempo of a game, swing momentum or get your team (and the crowd) riled up like Blackhawks penalty-minute leader Adam Burish asserted in his blog: “You may find your team down 2-0 just 10 minutes into the first period,” Burish said. “The crowd isn't into it, you look down your bench and guys are frustrated and a little sluggish. This is a great time to go look for a fight.”
The most common purpose of fighting, however, is to police the ice, to protect skill players. Several players have created careers for themselves by fighting skillfully. Bob Probert fought for the Red Wings, protecting stars like Steve Yzerman. Marty McSorley played in the NHL essentially to protect Wayne Gretzky, and was actually included with Gretzky in a trade from Edmonton to L.A. by request of the Great One himself.
The mission of a fighting ban is to make the game less violent, but removing fighting from the game would likely counteract it. Enforcers like McSorley, Probert and Burish rarely touch the ice in an effort to score goals, but will always be ready to strike when an opponent throws an elbow to the face of their team’s leading scorer. If fighting is removed, sticks, elbows and gloved fists will be more often used to exact revenge for these types of indiscretions. Believe it or not, fighting is the safest way to settle these disputes.
Some say that hockey is barbaric for allowing something that every other sport penalizes, but is it really any more barbaric than a pitcher hurling a 95 MPH fastball at an opponent who gloats after a home run? Possibly, but much like baseball fans, hockey fans understand the unwritten rules that dictate how unsportsmanlike or dangerous conduct is kept in check. Like major league pitchers know to throw at an opponents back (rather than his face), most NHL enforcers know the rules and the etiquette of fighting on skates. (Yes, I said “etiquette of fighting.")
For example, in a fight in December 2005, Anaheim enforcer Todd Fedoruk struck St. Louis forward Aaron Downey square in the face, knocking him backwards toward the ice. But Fedoruk held Downey’s jersey to prevent his unhelmeted head from slamming down like Sanderson’s head did.
In a fight on March 8, Boston’s Shawn Thornton ended a fight he easily could have won when his opponent, New York’s Colton Orr, had his jersey over his head. In the past, a jersey-covered head was an invitation to annihilate an opponent while he couldn’t see. Thornton, however, being a modern, seasoned enforcer, knew it was an unfair advantage, stopped punching and waved referees in to break them up. While these players were trying to hurt each other, they were not trying to kill each other, even if they had the opportunity.
The death of Don Sanderson is undoubtedly a tragic accident. But it was exactly that: an accident. It was not a result of fighting on ice, an activity that has been death-free since the NHL’s formation. It was a freak accident, and shouldn’t lead to reflexive, poor decisions.
Managing Editor
Several general managers in the National Hockey League have debated at league meetings about removing legal fighting from professional hockey. The anti-fighting movement has gotten stronger following the death of a minor league hockey player in Canada. Don Sanderson, 21, of the Whitby Dunlops fell at the conclusion of a fight, hit his head on the ice and was killed. While this tragedy should cause us to look at fighting in hockey, it shouldn’t be used as a reason to remove fighting entirely. Fighting is a classic part of hockey. Die-hard fans love it; they understand it’s importance. Those who don’t enjoy the strategy of hockey can always enjoy some fist-on-face figure skating.
Fighting is often used to change the tempo of a game, swing momentum or get your team (and the crowd) riled up like Blackhawks penalty-minute leader Adam Burish asserted in his blog: “You may find your team down 2-0 just 10 minutes into the first period,” Burish said. “The crowd isn't into it, you look down your bench and guys are frustrated and a little sluggish. This is a great time to go look for a fight.”
The most common purpose of fighting, however, is to police the ice, to protect skill players. Several players have created careers for themselves by fighting skillfully. Bob Probert fought for the Red Wings, protecting stars like Steve Yzerman. Marty McSorley played in the NHL essentially to protect Wayne Gretzky, and was actually included with Gretzky in a trade from Edmonton to L.A. by request of the Great One himself.
The mission of a fighting ban is to make the game less violent, but removing fighting from the game would likely counteract it. Enforcers like McSorley, Probert and Burish rarely touch the ice in an effort to score goals, but will always be ready to strike when an opponent throws an elbow to the face of their team’s leading scorer. If fighting is removed, sticks, elbows and gloved fists will be more often used to exact revenge for these types of indiscretions. Believe it or not, fighting is the safest way to settle these disputes.
Some say that hockey is barbaric for allowing something that every other sport penalizes, but is it really any more barbaric than a pitcher hurling a 95 MPH fastball at an opponent who gloats after a home run? Possibly, but much like baseball fans, hockey fans understand the unwritten rules that dictate how unsportsmanlike or dangerous conduct is kept in check. Like major league pitchers know to throw at an opponents back (rather than his face), most NHL enforcers know the rules and the etiquette of fighting on skates. (Yes, I said “etiquette of fighting.")
For example, in a fight in December 2005, Anaheim enforcer Todd Fedoruk struck St. Louis forward Aaron Downey square in the face, knocking him backwards toward the ice. But Fedoruk held Downey’s jersey to prevent his unhelmeted head from slamming down like Sanderson’s head did.
In a fight on March 8, Boston’s Shawn Thornton ended a fight he easily could have won when his opponent, New York’s Colton Orr, had his jersey over his head. In the past, a jersey-covered head was an invitation to annihilate an opponent while he couldn’t see. Thornton, however, being a modern, seasoned enforcer, knew it was an unfair advantage, stopped punching and waved referees in to break them up. While these players were trying to hurt each other, they were not trying to kill each other, even if they had the opportunity.
The death of Don Sanderson is undoubtedly a tragic accident. But it was exactly that: an accident. It was not a result of fighting on ice, an activity that has been death-free since the NHL’s formation. It was a freak accident, and shouldn’t lead to reflexive, poor decisions.
Relax Bears fans, at least we can kick
James Ayello
Staff Writer
Stuffed. Matt Forte’s attempt to convert on 3rd and 2 is denied like Michael Vick at a dog shelter. The Chicago offense has once again fallen short of a first down and getting into the red zone. As a Bears fan, I’ve heard some rumors about the red zone, although I’m not completely certain what it is since the Bears treat it like they do traffic signals: red means stop.
Not to worry though; as fans of this team, we know this is the kind of situation the Chicago Bears excel in. Chants of “M-V-P” ring out in Soldier Field as number nine glides onto the turf. Good call, Lovie. Lock up those three points. They are as “good as Gould” we fans like to say. Thank God our offensive line couldn’t get more push on third down, or we would be in danger of exploring the red frontier.
We all know what awaits us there: trouble that resurrects fond memories of Curtis Enis and Cade McNown. That being the case, we’ll stay behind the 20-yard line, where we’re comfortable, prepared to ride Robbie Gould’s foot to three points.
This is the kind of situation that Bears fans appreciate because quite simply, it’s the best we can do. The biggest problem with Bears fans is we, as a whole, expect to improve every year. This is a mistake. With free agency ongoing and the draft weeks away, Bears fans are becoming more and more anxious about the potential moves that Jerry Angelo and his staff are planning to make to improve the team. They want to know if we will add a big-name free agent to shore up our secondary or add a stud through the draft to fill the hole at left tackle. These are going to be the same disappointed souls that get so upset at the final game of the year that they run onto the field just to prove they spent more time on it than Chris Williams did.
Some fans say they want change for the Bears in the form of a wide receiver. Not me. I’ve learned to enjoy what we already have: a kicking game.
I’ve seen what happens when we try that, and so has Jerry Angelo. I’ve not forgotten David Terrell and Mushin Muhammad. Fans want to see playmaking? They want a point-scorer? Gould rains threes on opponents like Steve Kerr. He scored 119 points last year. That’s good enough to lead the Bears' second-leading scorer (Forte) by 48 points and place him 10th in the entire NFC.
I know that some Bears fans want to trade for Denver’s Jay Cutler because they are worried about the accuracy of Kyle Orton. Fans wants accuracy? Look no further than Robbie Gould. He’s got a career accuracy rate of 86% going 110-128 on his attempts. If kickers were rated in the same fashion as passers, Robbie Gould would be posting numbers “Good Rex” could only dream of.
I’ve heard many fans are concerned about whether Angelo’s big money players will eventually live up to those huge contracts they signed last offseason, but who cares? Since Robbie signed his contract, his stats have done nothing but improve annually and he is a Pro Bowl candidate every year. And at 27, Gould is nowhere near losing his talent, let alone the ending his career.
So relax Bears fans and look on the bright side, because although our beloved team may have holes in just about every position, the kicker is not one of them. If that doesn’t help, be glad you’re not a Lions fan.
Staff Writer
Stuffed. Matt Forte’s attempt to convert on 3rd and 2 is denied like Michael Vick at a dog shelter. The Chicago offense has once again fallen short of a first down and getting into the red zone. As a Bears fan, I’ve heard some rumors about the red zone, although I’m not completely certain what it is since the Bears treat it like they do traffic signals: red means stop.
Not to worry though; as fans of this team, we know this is the kind of situation the Chicago Bears excel in. Chants of “M-V-P” ring out in Soldier Field as number nine glides onto the turf. Good call, Lovie. Lock up those three points. They are as “good as Gould” we fans like to say. Thank God our offensive line couldn’t get more push on third down, or we would be in danger of exploring the red frontier.
We all know what awaits us there: trouble that resurrects fond memories of Curtis Enis and Cade McNown. That being the case, we’ll stay behind the 20-yard line, where we’re comfortable, prepared to ride Robbie Gould’s foot to three points.
This is the kind of situation that Bears fans appreciate because quite simply, it’s the best we can do. The biggest problem with Bears fans is we, as a whole, expect to improve every year. This is a mistake. With free agency ongoing and the draft weeks away, Bears fans are becoming more and more anxious about the potential moves that Jerry Angelo and his staff are planning to make to improve the team. They want to know if we will add a big-name free agent to shore up our secondary or add a stud through the draft to fill the hole at left tackle. These are going to be the same disappointed souls that get so upset at the final game of the year that they run onto the field just to prove they spent more time on it than Chris Williams did.
Some fans say they want change for the Bears in the form of a wide receiver. Not me. I’ve learned to enjoy what we already have: a kicking game.
I’ve seen what happens when we try that, and so has Jerry Angelo. I’ve not forgotten David Terrell and Mushin Muhammad. Fans want to see playmaking? They want a point-scorer? Gould rains threes on opponents like Steve Kerr. He scored 119 points last year. That’s good enough to lead the Bears' second-leading scorer (Forte) by 48 points and place him 10th in the entire NFC.
I know that some Bears fans want to trade for Denver’s Jay Cutler because they are worried about the accuracy of Kyle Orton. Fans wants accuracy? Look no further than Robbie Gould. He’s got a career accuracy rate of 86% going 110-128 on his attempts. If kickers were rated in the same fashion as passers, Robbie Gould would be posting numbers “Good Rex” could only dream of.
I’ve heard many fans are concerned about whether Angelo’s big money players will eventually live up to those huge contracts they signed last offseason, but who cares? Since Robbie signed his contract, his stats have done nothing but improve annually and he is a Pro Bowl candidate every year. And at 27, Gould is nowhere near losing his talent, let alone the ending his career.
So relax Bears fans and look on the bright side, because although our beloved team may have holes in just about every position, the kicker is not one of them. If that doesn’t help, be glad you’re not a Lions fan.
The Observer goes one-on-one with coach Bill Angelo
Under head coach Bill Angelo (in his 12th season), the Spartans
have made five consecutive trips to the NJCAA DII World Series.
Photo courtesy of elgin.edu
James Ayello
Staff Writer
E.O: Being rated # 2 in the Collegiate Baseball Newspaper Preseason Poll this early in the season, do you feel as though there is a target on your back?
B.A:Yeah, there always is. Everyone wants to beat us. Everyone is a little bit more excited to play baseball that day, you know, they definitely want to knock us off. With a high ranking comes high expectations.
E.O: What kind of expectations do you have for your team this year?
B.A: I just want our guys to realize their full potential. I want every team I coach to get the opportunity to play on the national stage because it’s such an awesome experience for these guys to take with them. Very rarely, do you get a chance to compete for a national title at any sport at any level… I want them to get a chance to compete for a national title. I feel like these guys could win without a doubt. These guys work hard. The talent is there, our pitching is there, offensively we’re pretty good, and our defensive will get there.
E.O: What does your pitching staff look like this year and who do you feel is the ace of the staff?
B.A: We've got a decent group of guys that are going to be able to carry the load pretty well. Jim Van Sycle is at the top of our staff; he’s throwing upper 80s/ low 90s with a pretty good slider and a pretty good changeup. He’s thrown the ball pretty well so far. Then we have Brad Allen and Curtis Hudson, who both transferred in from Division I schools. Brad Allen played at Northern Illinois last year and Curtis is a lefthander that played at Evansville last year. Those three guys are and the top of our staff and then we've got Rob Quick and Bob Diebold, who are both sophomores back from last year that are both right there in the four/five [slots], [and they accompany] Dan Francik, who’s another sophomore pitcher. We’ve got some pretty good arms. We feel like we’re pretty well off on the mound.
E.O: Offensively, what kind of team do you consider yourselves?
B.A: We’re a very well-rounded team. We’re not typically anything like a small-ball team or a power team or anything like that. We will manufacture runs when we need to. We will play a small ball game, but this team does have some pop. Our philosophy offensively is just to work counts and to hit fastballs. We want to get the count in our favor and hit the fastballs.
E.O: Steroids have become such a relevant issue in today’s baseball world; is that something you have to be on look out for at ECC?
B.A: I think we always have to be kind of aware. You know, you just try and educate your guys and try and tell them that there’s no honor in having success by cheating and hopefully they make good decisions about it and aren’t willing to sell their soul…just to have a little bit of success. You wish that the grown-ups that are playing pro ball…would have more integrity than to cheat to get the desired results. We don’t encourage that…[My players] know my opinion on all drugs and alcohol. I’m pretty outspoken that I’m strongly against [their use].
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