ubuntu: the theme for african-american history month

Collin News

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February 2006: Number 502

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Ubuntu: The theme for African-American History Month

2006 Events for African-AmericanHistory Month

Collin fire science students can nowsee in the dark

Collin hosts biennial economicsummit

Collin Dance Program welcomesPilobolus Too

Collin students share culturaldiversity

Plain and Fancy Ball kicks up itsspurs

February Campus Dates

Destination: College opens roadmapto higher education

College News

Faculty and Staff News

February Employee Birthdays

Movie Review -- "Syriana"

Student essays take on importantissues

Quick Facts

Your life’s work? Do what you love

Music Review -- The Strokes

Falling for February flicks

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Ubuntu: The theme for African-AmericanHistory Month The Association for the Study of Afro-American Life and History hasestablished the national theme for themonth-long African-American HistoryMonth celebration since 1926.[Click Here for Full Story]

2006 Events for African-American HistoryMonth Ubuntu: Humanity Towards Others[Click Here for Full Story]

Collin fire science students can now see inthe dark The program recently received athermal imaging camera for use duringlive fire training.[Click Here for Full Story]

Collin hosts biennial economic summit Co-hosted by Collin, the2006 Collin CountyEconomic Summit titled“Orchestrating Our Future”will feature a number of presentations and breakoutsessions led by the area’s foremost economic experts. Theevent takes place from 11:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Wednesday,Feb. 1, at Collin’s Spring Creek Campus ConferenceCenter, 2800 E. Spring Creek Parkway in Plano. [Click Here for Full Story]

Collin Dance Program welcomes PilobolusToo The Collin Dance Program, The University of Texas atDallas (UTD) and world renown Pilobolus Too are comingtogether to bring exceptional dance to the area. [Click Here for Full Story]

Collin students share cultural diversity At one booth, a myriad of young, eagerchildren wait in anticipation for their turnto have mehndi, or henna, applied totheir hands in intricate designs by a

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A newsletter for the students, facultyand staff of the Collin County CommunityCollege District. Published monthly. Forinformation or submissions, call972.758.3849. Cougar News welcomesstudent and faculty submissions. Nextdeadline: Feb. 7. All submissions are dueby 5 p.m. on the due date. Photoscannot be returned. Text should beemailed to [email protected] or senton disk. Please submit copy that isproofed, edited and saved in Wordformat. Cougar News staff: Lisa Vasquez,director; Mark Robinson, editor; MarcyCadena-Smith, contributor; SydneyPortilla-Diggs, student correspondent;Stephanie Hall, student correspondent;Jennifer Baker, student correspondent;Nick Young, photographer; Layout byPublications

Pakistani student from Collin. [Click Here for Full Story]

Plain and Fancy Ball kicks up its spurs The Plain and Fancy Ball Saturday, March 4will feature dancing, music, outrageouswardrobes, poker tables and food. [Click Here for Full Story]

February Campus Dates See what is going on at Collinduring the month of February. [Click Here for Full Story]

Destination: College opens roadmap tohigher education Collin is hosting Destination: College for thesecond straight year from 6-8:30 p.m.,Thursday, Feb. 9, at the Spring CreekCampus Conference Center. [Click Here for Full Story]

College News Chances are, you do not know everything that hashappened at Collin over the past month. [Click Here for Full Story]

Faculty and Staff News Faculty and staff have been verybusy -- with honors, awards andkudos. [Click Here for Full Story]

February Employee Birthdays It has been another year for these employees. [Click Here for Full Story]

Movie Review -- "Syriana" Campus correspondent takes on one of Hollywood'spolitical flicks. [Click Here for Full Story]

Student essays take on important issues The following three essays were written by Collin studentsfrom professor Jaime Jordan's fall English 1301 class. Theassignment was to write an argument on any topic of theirchoice and perform research to gain evidence to back upeach point of view. The essays chosen to be published inCougar News were the papers that had improved mostfrom rough draft to final draft and contained a higherquality of the research and writing. [Click Here for Full Story]

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Your life’s work? Do what you love • What do you really do best? • What do you enjoy doing the most that you could not livewithout doing? • What do you do most easily? • What is most interesting to you? [Click Here for Full Story]

Music Review -- The Strokes Nowadays, is easy to get all tangled up in the sticky webof celebritydom if one is inclined to … or beautiful enough.[Click Here for Full Story]

Falling for February flicks Start looking for those gifts because Valentine’s Day isapproaching. So if you’re looking for something to do onyour date, I have an idea you will love. All you singlepeople out there do not worry. I have you covered as well.Yes, I hold the key to three movies you just have to see.[Click Here for Full Story]

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Collin News: Ubuntu: The theme for African-American History Month

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Ubuntu: The theme for African-American History Month By Sydney Portilla-DiggsCampus Correspondent

The Association for the Study of Afro-American Life and History hasestablished the national theme for themonth-long African-American HistoryMonth celebration since 1926.

Although the national theme for the year 2006 is“Celebrating Community: A Tribute to Black Fraternal,Social, and Civic Institutions,” Collin’s African-AmericanHistory Month Committee chair Cathy Donald-Whitneyembraced the concept of Ubuntu: Humanity TowardsOthers, which was introduced by Collin’s Center forScholarly and Civic Engagement (CSCE) Director ReginaHughes.

What is Ubuntu?

Ubuntu is difficult to translate literally. Ubuntu is an Nguniword from South Africa, which refers to our commonhumanity and embraces ideas of community self-reliance,mutual social responsibility and mutual assistance.According to Barbara Nussbaum in "African Culture andUbuntu: Reflections of a South African in America,"“Ubuntu is a social philosophy, a way of being, a code ofethics and behavior deeply embedded in African culture.”Desmond Tutu resurrected the ancient South Africanphilosophy in his sermons against apartheid. Heencouraged the blacks and whites to unify throughreconciliation, mutual respect and reciprocity. Tutu’sinterpretation of the Ubuntu philosophy exemplifies “TheGolden Rule”—treating others the way you would like to betreated. Umuntu Ngumuntu Ngabantu—A person is aperson because of other. In other words, I am I becauseyou are you. If you suffer, I suffer as well. If you arerespected, I am respected as well.

According to Collin student Phillipus Strydom who is fromSouth Africa, “The new South Africa is built on theprinciples of ubuntu.”

However, the concept of ubuntu is not a new philosophy.The more I learn about ubuntu the more I learn thatevidences of our interconnectedness are apparent in ourdaily lives. The spirit of ubuntu demonstrates our humanity

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towards others. A few short days ago, I sat in a hospitalroom and watched my mother take two full units of blood inan emergency transfusion. The donor has no idea howprofoundly our family was affected by his generosity.Nonetheless, the blood of some anonymous stranger savedmy mother’s life and is now flowing through her veins. Canyou find an example of a random act of kindness in yourlife’s experience?

Ubuntu philosophy deals in terms of the sociallymarginalized—the proverbial “outsiders.” All too often, if aperson is not a minority he or she may rarely think of theproverbial outsiders or may mistakenly think that theseissues only affect minorities and not the mainstreampeople. Most minorities are intensely conscious of howsociety isolates them and how much it affects their lives,their work place and everything around them.

The ubuntu philosophy fosters an understanding that anurgency is needed to promote both a sociological and aglobal perspective because the world keeps ‘gettingsmaller and smaller’ thanks to technology. In fact, sociologyand the ubuntu philosophy are closely related because ofthe focus on the relationships between people.

Personally, I am ashamed that I have never beeninterested in Africa before. At first, my only interest lay indiscovering some background information surrounding thetheological philosophy of Ubuntu. I now know that Ubuntugoes beyond the black/white issue of apartheid. Ubuntugoes beyond the issues that lead to European colonizationof the natives on the American continent and the wholeinstitution of slavery.

Because the psyche of Western society drives one toconquer, dominate and compete, I know that I must havethe capacity inside of me. The philosophy of Ubuntu hasawakened something inside my soul. I finally feel aconnection to my African ancestry.

Why do we celebrate African-American History Month?

Recently, actor Morgan Freeman expressed his opinionthat the idea of a month for African-American History wasludicrous. In addition, Freeman suggested that talkingabout it only reinforces racism. According to Collin adjunctlecturer of speech Robin Fletcher, “Morgan Freeman isamong [his] favorite actors.”

However, Fletcher does not believe that Freeman’sarguments are “rational, reasonable and logical in ourfragile nation.” Furthermore, Fletcher believes that “[ournation] must try to learn from past flaws and failures, andthus avoid repetition of the bad by learning from it...[tocease talking] about racism will not cure our nation of thisproblem.” Collin professor Cathy Donald-Whitney becamethe chair for the African-American History Month (AAHM)five or six years ago.




For Donald-Whitney, African-American History Month isimportant because “it is the nucleus of a bigger concept—the quest for unity in diversity.” However, Donald-Whitney’sbiggest concern is the continuation of our society “goingthrough the motions.”

As she continues to chair the AAHM committee, her hopeis that more faculty, staff and students will becomeinvolved in the observance of ethnic holidays. In Donald-Whitney’s opinion, “Instructors, staff and students whohave never been involved in the activities may [mistakenly]believe it does not concern then when these events aresociety events not just ethnic observances.”

Collin student Devon Boyd believes that he feels like mostAfrican-Americans.

“I am not too fond of having only one month, and that [it is]the shortest one, to recognize the history of my people.Whether people believe it or not, African-Americans havepaved the way for many other ethnicities and cultures.”

Like the acclaimed actor Freeman, Boyd believes thatAfrican-American History is American History.

“I strongly believe African-American history should be apart of the educational curriculum like all the rest of theworld’s history and not singled out.”

The Importance of Perspective Inclusion not exclusion isthe key to our survival as a nation. The way our societychooses to deal with the issue of African-American Historycan either reinforce or threaten the cultural identity of oursociety.

This issue continues to raise the question of identity. Ourpersonal experiences or our lack of personal experiencesand the people we allow ourselves to be exposed to candetermine how we continue to identify one another.

With the precepts of ubuntu : respect, reconciliation, unity,reciprocity and responsibility that lead to action, our societycan learn to look at things differently than we have in thepast.

Until that day comes, African-American History Monthgives all Americans the opportunity to recognize andcelebrate the extraordinary contributions of African-Americans in American culture. African-American Historymonth is the legacy of Carter G. Woodson.

To learn more about ubuntu , access the following PDFs:

Solnussbaumarticle.pdf Perspectives050703.pdf Perspectives%20021203.pdf

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Collin News: 2006 Events for African-American History Month


Ubuntu in Motion is an interactive installationfeaturing a touch-sensitive dance floor whose 72sensors trigger sounds and images. The sounds aremade up of African and MLK speech fragmentswhile the visuals are comprised of pictures ofimportant African-American figures.

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2006 Events for African-AmericanHistory Month The theme is Ubuntu: Humanity Towards Others

Monday, Jan 16- Friday, Feb. 24 -- 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Ubuntu in Motion –an interactiveinstallationcombining mixedmedia designed byCollin professorsGaye Cooksey andChristopher Morgan.On display at theSpring CreekCampus outside theConference Center

Wednesday, Feb. 1LRC Displays(Spring Creek Campus, Central Park Campus and PrestonRidge Campus) and THE ARTS gallery exhibit featuringAfrican American Visual Arts 1-16 through the month ofFebruary

Friday, Feb. 3 Annual Soul Food Luncheon (expressionsof Ubuntu through fellowship and food) -- wear your black,green, red and/or gold -- Spring Creek CampusConference Center -- noon-1:15 p.m. Collin’s DanceEnsemble and Emily Boyd will perform

Wednesday, Feb. 8 Film Presentation (Professor TraceyElliott) “A Lesson before Dying” starring Don Cheadle --Preston Ridge Campus Founder’s Hall, F249 – 7 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 10 “Who We Are: An Exhibition of StudentPhotographic Work" Ubuntu celebration -- Preston RidgeCampus -- reception 5-7 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 14 Black Student Association sponsoredtalent show -- 11 a.m.-1 p.m. – Preston Ridge CampusCougar Den-John Wilkins BSA advisor

Wednesday, Feb. 15 Black Student Association sponsoredtalent show – 11 a.m.-1 p.m. – Central Park Campus Caféin McKinney -- John Wilkins, BSA advisor

Friday, Feb. 17 Black Student Association sponsoredtalent show 7-9 p.m. -- Spring Creek Campus atrium --John Wilkins BSA advisor








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Tuesday, Feb. 21 Auteur Film Series -- “Soul Food” --Spring Creek Campus Conference Center – 7 p.m. DonnaOkaro—panel discussion will follow

Thursday, Feb. 23 Presenting Daryl Davis (Spring CreekCampus, CPC and PRC)- African American member of theKu Klux Klan -- Sponsored by the African American HistoryMonth committee and Student Life

Thursday, Feb. 23 Film Screening: “The Power of One” --Spring Creek Campus – 7 p.m. -- celebration of Ubuntu --Mindi Bailey and Sydney Portilla-Diggs — post film paneldiscussion [PRINTER FRIENDLY VERSION]





Collin News: Collin fire science students can now see in the dark


David Kearney of L3 Communications (right)and Steve Barnett of Bullard (center) present athermal imaging camera to Collin CountyCommunity College District Fire ScienceProgram Director Pat McAuliff (left).

The thermal imaging cameras allow firefightersto locate hot spots or hidden fires insidestructures using infrared to sense thermalenergy.

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Collin fire science students can nowsee in the dark The program recently received a thermal imaging camerafor use during live fire training. “The infraredtechnology sensesthermal heat andcreates an electronicpicture enablingfirefighters to locatefire or hot spots notvisible to the nakedeye,” Fire ScienceProgram DirectorPat McAuliff said.“The camera caneasily distinguishobjects from victimsin fires allowing firefighters to conduct faster and moreeffective searches.”

The camera was given to the program by David Kearneyand Glen Francisco of L3 Communications in addition to acertificate recognizing the college for its support andcontributions toward the development of thermal imagingtechnology. The college created live fire scenarios forinfrared engineers to measure and calibrate thermalreadings, McAuliff said.

“We are very pleased to receive this camera,” he said.“The thermal imager allows us to teach proper procedureswhen using the camera to find victims or hidden fires instructures. For firefighters, it’s like giving a blind person thegift of sight.”

The T3MAX modelcamera isassembled anddistributed byBullard, and it allowsfire academyinstructors to monitorstudent performancewhile working indark, smoke filledrooms.

“Before thermalimaging technology, our instructors spent a lot of timeleading students by the hand through the fire building. Now








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they can evaluate student performance more accuratelyand increase the level of safety during the live firesessions,” McAuliff said. A number of area firedepartments use thermal imaging cameras to find hiddenfires and hot spots. The camera is effective whendepartments receive calls indicating a “smell of smoke.”

Firefighters can locate overheated electrical outlets or hotwires behind walls. The cameras can locate liquid levels instorage tanks and containers during hazardous materialscalls. The cost range for a thermal imaging camera is$9,000-20,000. The Fire Science program at Collin Collegeprovides training to fire departments in Collin andsurrounding counties. In addition, Collin offers basicfirefighter certification courses for those interested inbecoming a firefighter.

For information, contact the Fire Science office at972.548.6836 or visit www.ccccd.edu/firescience. [PRINTER FRIENDLY VERSION]





Collin News: Collin hosts biennial economic summit


Angelos Angelou

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Collin hosts biennial economic summit Hosted by Collin, the 2006 Collin County EconomicSummit titled “Orchestrating Our Future” will feature anumber of presentations and breakout sessions led by thearea’s foremost economic experts.

The event takes place from 11:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.,Wednesday, Feb. 1, at Collin’s Spring Creek CampusConference Center, 2800 E. Spring Creek Parkway inPlano.

The keynote speakers for thisyear’s event are Angelos Angelou,the founder and CEO of AngelouEconomics in Austin, and JosephC. Juarez, regional administratorof the U.S. Department of LaborEmployment and TrainingAdministration in Dallas.

Angelou has more than 20 yearsexperience in economicdevelopment and site selection.

He is regarded as the chief architect of Austin as a high-tech hub for companies.

As the regional administrator, Juarez is responsible forproviding leadership, guidance and overseeing allEmployment and Training programs and initiatives,including the Unemployment Insurance, State EmploymentService and Workforce Investment Act programsthroughout the region, which includes the States ofArkansas, Colorado, Louisiana, Montana, New Mexico,North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, Wyomingand Utah.

This year’s breakout sessions evidence the broad view thatNorth Texas is taking in an ever-expanding globaleconomy. Breakout sessions will include:

• Regionalism: A Harmonius Future for North Texas

• Composing the Workforce of the Future

• Future Compositions for Aging Communities Part 1: TheOrchestra and Plays

• Future Compositions for Aging Communities Part 2: TheSymphony in Action








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• Re-orchestrating the Healthcare Workforce for 2012

• Scaling Transportation and Logistics

• Global Perspectives: China, Mexico and Beyond

• Small Business: Fine Tuning for Future Growth

• Scoring Success: Gaining a Competitive Edge

The 2006 Economic Summit is co-hosted by the college,Collin County, Inside Collin County Business, and theAllen, Frisco, McKinney and Plano chambers of commerceand economic development corporations. Early birdregistration is $40, and the deadline is Friday, Jan. 20. Formore information or to register, call 972.612.2425 or visitwww.ccccd.edu/economicsummit







Collin News: Collin Dance Program welcomes Pilobolus Too


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Collin Dance Program welcomesPilobolus Too The Collin Dance Program, The University of Texas atDallas (UTD) and world renown Pilobolus Too are comingtogether to bring exceptional dance to the area.

Collin will host a master class with Pilobolus Too’s MattKent, who will be in the area with his wife, Emily, for aresidency with the two institutions. The visit will come to ahead with two performances Friday and Saturday, March3-4, at 8 p.m. at the UTD Theatre.

Pilobolus Too is a part of the Pilobolus Dance Theatre,conceived in 1996 to serve smaller, less-equipped venues.The group has performed in Europe and the United Statesin front of crowds of 200 to 2,000. Pilobolus Too consistsof two dancers presented new and classic Pilobolus works.The community master class is scheduled from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Satuday, Feb. 25, at the Collin Spring CreekCampus Dance Studio, room AA146. Registration is $15for general admission, $10 for students with an ID and $8for Collin and UTD students with an ID. Registration for themaster class ends Friday, Feb. 17 and registration isconfirmed when payment is received. Space is limited, soearly registration is advised.

The March showcases will feature Matt Kent’schoreography and dancers from Collin and UTD andfeature the Collin Dance Ensemble and UTD dancers,along with Pilobolus Too.

Pilobolus Dance Theatre has been choreographing andtouring continually since October 1971 and performs forstage and television audiences around the globe. Itcurrently possesses a repertory of over 85 works, anumber of which appear in the repertoires of other majordance companies. These include the Joffrey, Feld, Ohio,Arizona, and Aspen/Santa Fe Ballets in the United States,the Ballet National de Nancy et de Lorraine and the Balletdes Rhin in France, and Italy's Verona Ballet. The NewYork Times has called Pilobolus Too "a jewel-likedistillation of Pilobolus spirit and history."

For more information about registering for the masterclass, contact Tiffanee Arnold, Collin chair of dance, at972.881. 5830 or [email protected]. [PRINTER FRIENDLY VERSION]










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Collin News: Collin students share cultural diversity


Collin students shared their cultural diversity withNaoma and M. Allen Anderson Elementary studentsin Plano. Students from the International StudentAssociation (ISA), the Middle Eastern StudentAssociation (MESA), and the League of UnitedLatin American Council (LULAC) participated inthe Dec. 1 event.

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Collin students share cultural diversity By Stephanie Hall Student Correspondent

At one booth, a myriad of young, eager children wait inanticipation for their turn to have mehndi, or henna, appliedto their hands in intricate designs by a Pakistani studentfrom Collin.

At another booth, children learn about Kenya, a country inAfrica, by coloring in the flag while listening toknowledgeable Collin students speak about their country.

And yet at anotherbooth, excitedchildren wait theirturn for MiddleEastern Collinstudents to writetheir name in Arabicand Farsi letters.These and otherCollin studentsinspired hundreds ofyoung minds bysharing their owncultural diversity withelementary studentsduring an annualcultural event at the Naoma and M. Allen AndersonElementary school Dec. 1 in Plano.

The students who participated came from three differentstudent organizations: the International Student Association(ISA), the Middle Eastern Student Association (MESA) andthe League of United Latin American Council (LULAC).

“They represent Collin’s own diverse student population,”said Tatiana Shehadeh, the international student advisor atCollin. Shehadeh asked the student organizations if theywould be willing to participate after she received a call fromAnderson Elementary. “They asked if the Collin studentswould like to participate in this popular annual event,” shesaid. “The elementary school has a multicultural population,so they thought that the Collin students could add a newdimension to their program.”

The Collin students set up several creative booths witheducational activities enticing the elementary students tolearn more.








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“I think we’ve allowed them to be curious and to inquireabout the different cultures,” said Aliasger Esmailjee, thepresident of the ISA at Collin. He and his fellow ISAmembers enjoyed interacting with the children.

“We have taught them about different cultures and differentcountries, and they have learned a lot. It’s beenworthwhile.” While the children fluttered about the school intheir native clothing, the parents also took in the mixture ofcultures.

“The students are able to put a face to a country ratherthan the children having to only learn it from a book,” saidStacy Anne Arias, a member of the Board of Trustees forCollin. She has two children attending AndersonElementary. She said she was proud of the Collin studentsand their successful efforts in bringing color to the school’scultural event.

“I know this was a difficult time for the students to comeout because of finals,” she said. “I’m very appreciative ofthem coming here.”

Lara Rahhal, a student from Lebanon added even morespice to the event by gracefully performing a belly dance.Another Kenyan student from Collin sang the nationalanthem of her native land. Collin’s Latin American studentshappily taught the young students the salsa dance. Thehighlight of the program was the fashion show in whichyoung students, their siblings and teachers proudlymodeled their native outfits as they walked across thestage. When each finished, the elementary students werea buzz with questions about the cultures.

“Cultural awareness is increasingly important, especially ina society where there are so many different ethnicities,”said Shehadeh. “The aim of the cultural event was to bringawareness and expose young children to different cultures.Teaching children at an early age about traditions,customs, languages, and even exposing them to dancesand arts of other populations helps them better understandpeople from different cultures, and eventually aids inreducing discrimination and prejudice in our society.” [PRINTER FRIENDLY VERSION]





Collin News: Plain and Fancy Ball kicks up its spurs


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Plain and Fancy Ball kicks up its spurs The Plain and Fancy BallSaturday, March 4 willfeature dancing, music,outrageous wardrobes,gaming tables and food. Butthose students who havereceived a Collin CountyCommunity College DistrictFoundation, Inc. scholarshipknow that it is much more.

The second annual foundation fundraiser goes Texas-Stylein raising money for scholarships from 7-10 p.m. at theSpring Creek Campus Conference Center. Attendees canenjoy two-step and tango dancing lessons, food, TexasHold ‘em poker tables, a live jazz band, food, games andmore.

Like last year, those attending are encouraged to mix andmatch fancy attire with “plain” attire like a pair of jeans, apair of old boots or that weathered 10-gallon cowboy hat.Or dress all fancy. It does not matter because it is allabout the scholarships. About 80 percent of Collin studentsare working 20-40 hours a week, which does not includefamilial and academic responsibilities. About $12.5 millionin scholarships and federal financial assistance wasawarded to Collin students. More than 2,000 requests forscholarships and financial aid were denied.

Plain and Fancy Ball sponsorship levels include “Hipster” at$1,000, “In-Crowd” at $2,500, “Jet Set” at $5,000, “HighSociety” at $10,000 and “Philanthropist” at $20,000. A$1,000 scholarship pays for tuition and books for onestudent for one semester. A $5,000 scholarship canpurchase tuition and books for a student to earn a two-year associate’s degree.

To become a Plain and Fancy Ball sponsor or for moreinformation, contact the Collin County Community CollegeDistrict Foundation, Inc. at 972.881.5611. [PRINTER FRIENDLY VERSION]









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Collin News: February Campus Dates


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February Campus Dates Business and community leaders interested in the future of localeconomy will get a preview at the 2006 Collin County EconomicSummit set for Wednesday, Feb. 1. The event will take place11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Collin County Community CollegeDistrict's Spring Creek Campus Conference Center, 2800 E. SpringCreek Parkway in Plano. Early-bird registration is $40 and seatingis limited. Late registration is $50. Registration after Jan. 20 is $50.Reserve your space today by calling 972.612.2425.

Collin and The University of Texas at Arlington will hostinternationally renowned photographer David Levinthal to lectureat both schools. The UTA event is 4 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 1, inthe Fine Arts Building, room 148, 502 S. Cooper St. in Arlington.The Collin event is 7 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 2, at the Spring CreekCampus Conference Center. The events are free and open to thepublic. Levinthal has been showcased in galleries across the globeand been published in a number of books. For further informationon Levinthal’s visit to The University of Texas at Arlington, call817.272.2891 or e-mail [email protected]. For information about his visitto Collin County Community College District, call Byrd Williams,photography chair, at 972.881.5727 or e-mail [email protected] event has been sponsored by the Collin County CommunityCollege District president's office, The University of Texas atArlington Department of Art and Art History, Arlington Camera, theArlington Hilton and Gerald Peters Gallery.

June Redford Van Cleef’s photography captures the dying breed of West Texas ranchers in hernew gallery, “The Texas Outback: Ranching on the Last Frontier.”

June Redford Van Cleef, photographer, will showcase “The TexasOutback: Ranching on the Last Frontier” Wednesday, Feb. 1-Friday, Feb. 10. A reception is set for Thursday, Feb. 2 at 6 p.m.The photographs are from Van Cleef’s book of the same name. Thework captures Van Cleef’s West Texas roots and the mix of Angloand Hispanic cultures. The exhibition totals 41 environmentalportraits, landscape shots and interior photographs. Gallery hoursare Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-8 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; andSaturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. For more information about this exhibitionand any future exhibitions, visit the gallery’s website atwww.ccccd.edu/THEARTSgallery or call 972.881.5873.













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Collin will host Tonna Miller Brock, M.Ed, MS, LPC, the author of“Overeating? 500 Excuses and 500 Solutions,” will speak at theCentral Park Campus’ Pike Hall, 2200 W. University Dr. inMcKinney, 10 a.m.-noon, Saturday, Feb. 4. Brock has been inrecovery for compulsive overeating since 1979. The book sharesher personal recovery from overeating and offers 500 excuses and500 solutions to the reader . Brock’s lecture is for individuals withan overeating problem and who want help overcoming theirproblem. Copies of Brock’s book will be available for purchase, anda book signing will be held following her presentation. For moreinformation about Brock and her book, visit www.skinnedknees.comor call Collin Student Life at 972.377.1789.

Collin is hosting Destination: College for the second straight yearfrom 6-8:30 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 9, at the Spring Creek CampusConference Center. Destination: College is a parent’s roadmap tonegotiating the sometimes complex route to college. The sessionwill address standardized tests, applications and financial aid andthe strain college can put on a family’s financial scene. Also,parents who attend Destination: College and intend to send theirchildren to Collin will be entered into a drawing for tuitionscholarships. Seating is limited. Confirm a reservation by noon,Monday, Feb. 6, by calling 972.377.1750 or 972.881.5770, or e-mailing [email protected].

Hosted by Collin Theatre Cares, “The VaginaMonologues” by Eve Ensler will be heldFriday-Sunday, Feb. 10-12 at the Black Boxtheatre, 2800 E. Spring Creek Parkway inPlano. Friday and Saturday performances are

at 8 p.m. and the Sunday matinee is at 2:15 p.m. Generaladmission is $10 and $8 for senior citizens and students. For moreinformation or tickets, call 972.881.5809. Proceeds benefit Hope’sDoor.

The Auteur Film Series, titled “Food for Thought,” will present“Soul Food” at 7 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 21, at the Spring CreekCampus Conference Center, 2800 E. Spring Creek Parkway inPlano. In honor of African American History Month, “Soul Food”centers around the table of family matriarch, Mother Joe, whichkeeps the family together until dissent brews between two sisters.The film is 114 minutes and is rated R. Following the movie, apanel discussion led by several Collin faculty and staff will be heldin order to discuss the film and its themes. Doors open at 6:30p.m., and seating is limited. The screening is free and open to thepublic. For more information about the Auteur Film Series, contactCollin Humanities and Philosophy Chair Carolyn Perry at972.881.5140 or e-mail her at [email protected].

The Plain and Fancy Ball Saturday, March 4will feature dancing, music, outrageouswardrobes, poker and food. The second annualfoundation fundraiser goes Texas-Style inraising money for scholarships from 7-10 p.m.at the Spring Creek Campus ConferenceCenter. Plain and Fancy Ball sponsorship levelsinclude “Hipster” at $1,000, “In-Crowd” at $2,500, “Jet Set” at$5,000, “High Society” at $10,000 and “Philanthropist” at $20,000.To become a Plain and Fancy Ball sponsor or for more information,contact the Collin County Community College District Foundation,







Inc. at 972.881.5611. www.ccccd.edu/plainandfancy

The Quad C Theatre will present Richard O’Brien’s “The RockyHorror (Puppet) Show” Thursday-Saturday, March 2-4 and March8-11 at 8 p.m. and March 5 and 11-12 at 2:15 p.m. Shows will beat the John Anthony Theatre at the Collin County CommunityCollege District Spring Creek Campus, 2800 E. Spring CreekParkway in Plano. Performances on March 5 and March 10 will besign-interpreted for patrons who are deaf or hard of hearing. Call972.881.5809 for tickets. General admission is $15 and tickets forstudents and senior citizens are $10. For more information, contactthe theatre hotline at 972.881.5100 or visit www.quadctheatre.org.

The Auteur Film Series, titled “Food for Thought,” will present “EatDrink Man Woman” at 7 p.m., Wednesday, March 22, at the SpringCreek Campus Conference Center, 2800 E. Spring Creek Parkwayin Plano. Mr. Chu is the master of the kitchen, but he begins to losehis control over his daughters, who have their eyes set for theoutside world. The film is 123 minutes and is not rated. Followingthe movie, a panel discussion led by several Collin faculty and staffwill be held in order to discuss the film and its themes. Doors openat 6:30 p.m., and seating is limited. The screening is free and opento the public. For more information about the Auteur Film Series,contact Collin Humanities and Philosophy Chair Carolyn Perry at972.881.5140 or e-mail her at [email protected]. [PRINTER FRIENDLY VERSION]







Collin News: Destination: College opens roadmap to higher education


The Rev. Isiah Joshua, of Plano'sShiloh Missionary Baptist Church,spoke at last year's Destination:College

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Destination: College opens roadmap tohigher education Collin is hosting Destination: College for the secondstraight year from 6-8:30 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 9, at theSpring Creek Campus Conference Center.

Destination: College is aparent’s roadmap tonegotiating the sometimescomplex route to college. Thesession will addressstandardized tests, applicationsand financial aid and the straincollege can put on a family’sfinancial scene.

The event is an opportunity forparents to learn more aboutcollege no matter thedestination of their child. A lightdinner will be served and aquestion-and-answer portionwill be held after the session.

Also, parents who attend Destination: College and intend tosend their children to Collin will be entered into a drawingfor tuition scholarships.

Seating is limited. Confirm a reservation by noon, Monday,Feb. 6, by calling 972.377.1750 or 972.881.5770, or e-mailing [email protected] . [PRINTER FRIENDLY VERSION]










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Humanities student, Angela Minnich with her collage(top) entitled 'Pleasure.'

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College News Collin was named the "Education Organization of theYear" by the North Central Texas WorkForce Board attheir annual Awards of Excellence luncheon Nov. 29. Thisaward is the result of a strong partnership between thecollege and the workforce board and the successfultraining projects deployed by Collin's Center for Workforceand Economic Development. "The workforce system relieson forward thinking partners in the field of education toprovide up-to-the-minute training and demand drivencourses. Collin County Community College continues tostep up to the plate with innovative training programs,"NCTWB said.

The Communities Foundation of Texas will be grantingCollin’s Foundation $15,000 toward the expansion of theJames and Pat Aston Center for Health Studies.

The HumanitiesDepartmenthosted the firstannual StudentCreativity Exhibitand reception inthe Spring CreekCampus AtriumDec. 9. Forty-three exhibitorsdisplayed theircreative projectswhich were metwith enthusiasticresponse. More than 100 students, faculty and staff viewedthe show during the day and about 80 people attended theafternoon reception. Three Collin students were named tothe Texas All-State Community College Jazz Band and willperform at the Texas Music Educators AssociationConvention in San Antonio in February. The students wereYoung Heo, bass; Juan Moreno, jazz guitar; and JordanGoldblatt, baritone saxophone. Drummer Josh Cuadraplaced third in state competition. [PRINTER FRIENDLY VERSION]









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Collin News: Faculty and Staff News


Byrd Williams, Chair of the Collinphotography department.

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Faculty and Staff News A number of individuals were honored at All College DayJan. 6. The award winners were: • Associate Faculty Award – Betty Correll • Full-Time Faculty Award – Pamela Gaiter • Innovator of the Year – Molly Boyce • Ambassador of the Year – Linda Kyprios • Unsung Hero Award – Hershell Hanks • Unsung Heroine Award – Melanie Tracht • Part-Time Rose Award – Pat Peters • Rose Award – Ron Jackson

One hundred and twenty individuals participated in the fallTeam Wellness Challenge, but only one team came outwith the grand prize. Beat the Nuts from the Spring CreekCampus was the grand prize winner. Peggy Breedlove isthe team captain. Runners-up included: Health Nuts,Shirley Terrell-captain, Spring Creek Campus; NursingTeam, Christine Linert –captain, Central Park Campus;Retro Dog Walkers, Rita Parker –captain, Preston RidgeCampus; Phyllis Martin's Team, Phyllis Martin-captain,Courtyard Center; "Sabrina Belt's Team", Sabrina Belt-captain, CCCCD@Allen.

The Museum of Fine Arts,Houston purchased 16prints for exhibition fromByrd Williams, Collinphotography departmentchair. Ten of thephotographs wereWilliams’ work and sixothers were shots takenby his father, grandfatherand great-grandfather.Some of the prints dateback to the late 19thcentury. Williams wasasked by museum curatorAnne Tucker to present hiswork to the board of

trustees, who voted to purchase the 16 pieces, which arebeing exhibited in the “New Acquisitions” portion of themuseum. In printing photos taken by his father, grandfatherand great-grandfather, Williams used latter-day processesand materials in order to show the photos as they originallywould have been printed.

Director of Continuing Education Janet Sheppard wasinterviewed briefly by Al Roker while standing outside TheToday Show studios in New York City Dec. 6. True to her








Collin News: Faculty and Staff News


Thom Chesney

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commitment and dedication to the college, Sheppard saidin the interview that Collin is the “best college in Texas.”

Vice President of Academic AffairsThom Chesney and the academicdeans in his division recentlycoordinated a community serviceproject. On Dec. 10, Dr. Chesneywas joined by the academic deansand others as they staffed all threeshifts at Allen Community Outreach.They moved boxes, unpacked andrepacked gift bags, and sorted toysas part of their group AcademicAffairs Service Project. Participantsincluded Juanita Austin, AnnBeheler, Bill Blitt, Susan Evans, Gary Hodge, ReginaHughes, Wayne Jones, Cameron Neal, Gerry Perkus andSherry Schumann. [PRINTER FRIENDLY VERSION]





Collin News: February Employee Birthdays


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February Employee Birthdays February Employee Birthdays

Paul Bryant 01Sara Chacon 01Kimberly Lower 01Josiane Delong 03Huong Pham 03Stephanie Hanson 04Cindy Schulze 06Claire Shipman 06Cindy Simpson 06Debbie Worley 06Fred Jury 07Melody Holmes 08John Leonard 08Linda Thompson 09Jon Hardesty 10Cary Israel 10James Adams 11Jayson Nichols 11Bijun Orth 11Haiyan Wang 11Reba Bartel 12David Husted 13Norma Johnson 13John Wilkins 13Larry Merril 14Helene Cohen-Gilbert 15James Whitlow 15Gloria Cloud 16Doris Littrell 16Sherry Rhodes 17Edelin Rubino 17Melanie Tracht 17Jeffrey Watson 17Marlene Miller 18Sonia Castillo 19William Crossno Jr. 19John Helton 19Martha Adamson 20Vickie Stephens 20Donna Stoutley 21Charles Braun 22Linda Vaughn 22Ila Mae Francis 23Caryn Hawkins 23Janice Crowe 24Elizabeth Applebaum 25Mikel Cohick 25James Eiting 25








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William Hogan 25Samuel May 25Surasak Yamfang 25Matthew Ammons 26Wilma Eckhoff 26Gilbert Padron 27Daniel Quong 27Daphne Babcock 28






Collin News: Movie Review -- "Syriana"


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Movie Review -- "Syriana" By Sydney Portilla-DiggsCampus Correspondent Starring: Kayvan Novak as Arash George Clooney as Bob Barnes Amr Waked as Mohammed Sheik Agiza Christopher Plummer as Dean Whiting Jeffrey Wright as Bennett Holiday Matt Damon as Bryan Woodman

Running time: 126 minutes

Rated R for violence and language

“Syriana” is the directorial debut for Stephen Gaghan, whowon an Oscar for Best Screenplay for “Traffic.” The word“syriana” is a genuine term used by Washington thinktanks as a way to describe the hypothetical restructuring ofthe Middle East. A cast of heavy hitters portrays anintricate web of players that weave a complex andambiguous tale of the United States Government’s role inthe Middle East and the oil business.

In terms of cinematography, everyone involved focused onrealism and authenticity. The movie was filmed in locationsfrom around the world from Washington to Dubai. The useof hand-held cameras allowed for a documentary feel.Characters spoke foreign languages with accurate accentsand inflections. Although the film is loosely based by thelife of CIA operative Robert Baer, George Clooney’scharacter Bob Barnes personifies the proverbial CIA footsoldier.

With thirty extra pounds, the Hollywood heartthrob is barelyrecognizable as he portrays the unglamorous protagonist.As main characters go, the audience may find it difficult todetermine just whom the bad guys are and who the goodguys are in the film. The ambiguity serves to bring realismto the plot because in real life things may not always bewhat they seem.

The several seemingly unrelated plot lines runsimultaneously, which provokes serious introspection andconversation beyond the actual viewing of the movie. Inone story line, Bob Barnes is a dedicated CIA agent andexpert in Middle East affairs; his years of service havenearly cost him his family. Still, he remains loyal becausehe believes he is doing the right thing. Despite his loyalty,the agency considers Bob’s particular brand of talents tobe obsolete. Therefore, Bob Barnes becomes expendable.








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In another, Matt Damon plays Bryan Woodman an energyanalyst with a wife and two small children.

After losing his son in a tragic accident, he throws himselfinto to work, which brings him into direct contact with theEmir’s son Prince Nasir. The Emir has two sons PrinceNasir and Prince Meshal. Prince Nasir has been groomedto secede his father. Woodman expects Prince Nasir to bea flamboyant, irresponsible contender for the title of Emir.However, he is pleasantly surprised that Prince Nasir issomewhat of a visionary and holds progressive politicalviews.

Prince Meshal is little more than a hand puppet. Becauseof this, the machinations of the corrupt oil conglomerateeasily manipulate him towards their interests. However, theaudience may find the disenfranchised Pakistani youthWasim to be the most likable character and the easiest tofeel a connection with. Wasim’s story makes us questionwhat we think we know about the people who wecategorize as terrorists. The film may feel entrenched inforeign and domestic policy problems within the UnitedStates government. And it is definitely not the movie youwant to see if you are looking for lighthearted entertainmentor the feel good movie of the season.

However, if you are looking for education and anopportunity to gain a different perspective on issues in theMiddle East, Syriana may just be the film you have beenwaiting for. How deep are you willing to go down the rabbithole?

5 out of 5 paws. [PRINTER FRIENDLY VERSION]





Collin News: Student essays take on important issues


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Student essays take on importantissues The following three essays were written by Collin studentsfrom professor Jaime Jordan's fall English 1301 class. Theassignment was to write an argument on any topic of theirchoice and perform research to gain evidence to back upeach point of view. The essays chosen to be published inCougar News were the papers that had improved mostfrom rough draft to final draft and contained a higherquality of the research and writing.

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Nicotine Should be Banned By Guy Yater

Society’s burden of tobacco related diseases would begreatly reduced by classifying the drug nicotine a bannedsubstance and subsequently removing it from cigarettes.

Nicotine is a highly addictive drug. It provides instantgratification to the addict yet it only has mild and arguablybeneficial psychological effects. The tobacco companieshave certainly used this fact as leverage against theconsumer in removing the ability to freely decide whetheror not to buy another tobacco product. Nicotine’s effect onthe user drives him or her to use the product again to getthe “next fix” in the addiction cycle, for which a dear priceis usually paid – “one in four users pay with their life”(Kluger 416).

Accordingly, control of the delivery of nicotine should bewrenched from the hands of those who profit from it andgiven to those whose interests are in protecting thepublic’s health. The U.S. Government should re-classifynicotine as a controlled substance and tobacco companiesshould be allowed to sell their products only under thecondition those products are proven free of the addictivedrug nicotine. Nicotine was isolated as the active ingredientin tobacco in 1828 by two French scientists. They named itafter Jean Nicot, France’s Ambassador to Portugal, whowrote to Paris in 1560 purporting tobacco’s curativepowers, as evidenced by the curing of his relative’s ulcerunder advice from the court physicians of Portugal. Withintwo generations, tobacco was widely accepted as anantitoxin and disinfectant (Mollenkamp 247).

Certainly, addicts who partake in the habit encounterphysiological effects of the mind and body that they










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perceive as rewarding. Explicitly, when cigarette smoke isinhaled into the body, a sequence of effects immediatelybegins to take place from the nicotine within the smoke:The nicotine first stimulates sensory nerve endingsembedded in the vicinity of the millions of air sacs of thelungs. Within seconds this stimulation produces a powerfulreflex effect consisting of a brief, abrupt fall in heart rateand blood pressure (soon followed by opposite effects); ageneralized relaxation of the body musculature; and asimultaneous arousal of the brain. The combination ofphysical relaxation and comfort, combined with mentalalertness, is the unique characteristic of nicotine and is thesource of the described “Rush” that the smoker feels andseeks. (Whelan 112)

The next effect on the body by nicotine requires someexplanation of the human body’s nervous system in orderto understand. Nerve cells form a body widecommunication system. When chemically charged, a nervecell sends an electrical charge down its length to a fibrousextension where it “jumps the gap” to the next nerve cell.This “gap” is called a synapse. In order for the electricalcharge to jump the gap it must first be converted into achemical compound called a neurotransmitter.

Once emitted, the neurotransmitter bonds chemically withthe next cell in a specific way due to its chemical makeupand how it “fits” into one of the receiving points, calledreceptors, on the next cell. This triggers a reaction specificto the type of receptor it fits: if the receiving nerve cell isthe same kind as the transmitting one then the messagepasses along to the next one unchanged. Once themessage reaches its destination reactions start to occurthat cause changes in the body based upon the originalmessage. The human body produces one type ofneurotransmitter called acetylcholine (ACT). ACT’s mainpurpose is to stimulate the nervous system so that itresponds better at carrying other messages, via otherneurotransmitters. ACT also sends a message to thekidneys to release adrenalin. Nicotine imitates ACT andcauses the release of adrenalin which stimulates themuscle and circulatory systems. This raises the heartbeatrate and blood pressure (Kluger 415).

Also, as with ACT, dopamine is released by the receptorwhich stimulates the brains pleasure center (Pringle 84).This process meets the definition of a stimulant. One keydifference between ACT and nicotine is the way they affectthe receiving nerve cell. With ACT, once the receivingnerve cell has reacted to the reception of ACT immediatelyfrees the ACT compound which is then reabsorbed by thetransmitting nerve cell, thus clearing the connection forfurther use (Kluger 415).

Conversely, nicotine forms a much stronger and longerlasting bond, which causes it to be held onto by thereceiving nerve cell. Though this is readily cleared awaywhen affected by small doses of nicotine, larger dosestend to clog the receptors which cause a reversal of thestimulant effect by slowing muscular activity, the heart in




particular, and causing a drop in delivery of oxygen to thebody and brain – in short, causing a sedative effect.Scientists speculate that smokers consciously orsubconsciously vary their nicotine dosage throughout theday to meet the differing demands on them (Kluger 415-416).

Consequently, the brain adapts to these blocked receptionsites by generating more reception sites. When the nicotineeventually unblocks these sites, there are more sites thannormal available and the result is over-stimulation, whichcauses a person to become irritable and cranky. This canbe defined as nicotine withdrawal (Pringle 84).

The smoker is now required to continue smoking, and tofind the balance that works best, in order to maintain afeeling of normalcy when compared to a non-smoker.According to a Phillip Morris research memo, “Smoke isbeyond question the most optimized vehicle of nicotine andthe cigarette the most optimized dispenser of smoke”(Pringle 106). Consequently, there are approximately fiftymillion tobacco customers in the United States today, mostof who smoke cigarettes. Smoking has been proven to bethe main cause of lung cancer; a major contributor to heartdisease; and leads to ninety percent of all cases ofemphysema (Whelan 6). Furthermore, lung cancer rateshave increased dramatically in the last sixty years andshow a close association with the increase in the numberof cigarettes smoked (Whelan 8). The biggest smokingrelated killer is lung cancer, which is second only to heartdisease as the leading cause of death in the United States.Accordingly, the U.S. Surgeon General has called smoking“the most important of the known modifiable risk factors in{heart disease}” (Whelan 26).

Each year nearly 200,000, or one-fifth, of all heart diseaserelated deaths are caused by smoking cigarettes. Mountingevidence shows that smoking increases a person’s risk fordeveloping several types of heart disease. Contrary topopular belief, smoking even a few cigarettes per dayincreases that risk (Whelan 26).

When combining the detrimental effects of smoking on thehuman body with the addictive properties of nicotine, adanger comparable to no other is presented to society.Collectively, smoking related deaths are the biggest singlecause of death in the United States. Masses of smokersare enslaved to smoking cigarettes in order to retain thefeeling of relaxation which is deprived them by thephysiological effects caused by nicotine itself! During thebeginning of America’s love affair with tobacco, smokingcigarettes was considered a second rate method ofenjoyment for tobacco. This changed during the AmericanCivil War. Before the Civil War the preferred method ofenjoyment of tobacco was to chew it. This was becausetobacco smoke, which was highly alkaline in nature andreadily absorbed by the membranes in the mouth andthroat, triggered a reflex rejection in the form of a cough.This prevented inhalation of the smoke. Therefore, nicotinehad to be absorbed through the oral membranes. This



absorption was slow and modest, with the nicotine beingmetabolized without any remarkable effect on the internaltissues (Kluger 6).

By contrast, a new form of tobacco was produced calledBright Leaf. Bright Leaf’s main quality was its high aciditywhich did not interact with the membranes of the mouthand throat, allowing it to be smoked without the usualcoughing caused by any of the previous varieties. Now thesmoke could be inhaled, which changed everything. Theintricate pathways of the lungs allow for a severalhundredfold increase in the absorption rate whencompared to the mouth. As a result, far more nicotine wasabsorbed into the blood, momentarily suffusing an entirecross section of the bloodstream (Kluger 6).

In other words, nicotine addiction had found a stronghold inits invasion upon the American public. During the Civil War“with neither time nor money for pipes or cigars, soldiersliked the quick narcotic kick of the mild, inhalable littlesmokes now being made from Bright Leaf ... prone toimitate their colleagues in wartime misery, more and moretried the cigarette and found it pleasing. For the first timeAmericans begin to think of it as something more than apoor substitute for the real thing” (Kluger 17).

As America matured through the industrial age, thecigarette quickly became considered as a mainstream partof Americans' lives. Huge tobacco companies amassedpower and money riding on the back of this huge wave ofnicotine addiction, which was now fully entrenched amidstthe nation’s populace. The big tobacco companies rose tothe top of industrial America on the back of this beastwhile the nation, indeed the entire world, became addictedto nicotine. At that time tobacco companies, enjoying theimmense popularity of their product, were not yet aware ofthe grip nicotine had upon the human psyche. However,tobacco companies’ research, which began in the 1950’sto counterattack new reports that there was something veryunhealthy about cigarette smoking, began to uncover thatthere was indeed an explanation for the popularity of theirproduct: nicotine is highly addictive. Funded by the hugecapitol reserves of the largest tobacco companies, theirown research laboratories incessantly unlocked the secretsof tobacco smoke. The more the tobacco companieslearned about their product, the more lawyers they hired.Indeed, tobacco companies were among the first to realizethat tobacco is addictive. One memo from lead attorneyAddison Yeaman, speaking to a research conference inBritain in July 1963 on behalf of a major tobacco company,Brown & Williamson, reads: “Scientists now say thattobacco not only has tranquilizing effects, but uniquetranquilizing effects. It works more broadly and mildly thanwhat the pharmaceutical companies have come up with.Moreover, nicotine is addictive. We are in the business,then, of selling nicotine, an addictive drug” (Mollenkamp40).

The lawyers never allowed this information to be releasedto the public. Certainly it was the tobacco companies’



moral responsibility to divulge this information to the public.Yet, they took the stance that there was nothing unhealthyabout smoking cigarettes and have since fought a two-faced battle: one facet focused on the health issue ofsmoking and whether or not it is truly causal in so manydeaths; the other facet focused on the consistent denial ofthe addictiveness of nicotine. The health issue was thesubject of intense research and development at thetobacco companies’ laboratories. The tobacco companiesalways seemed to stay a step ahead of the questionsraised by outside consortiums of independent researchgroups by implementing new and improved cigarettes tocounter reports of the ill effects of tobacco smoke.However, the health issue was simply a smoke screen laidout by the tobacco companies to hide the real issue:cigarettes are vehicles for passing along the highlyaddictive drug nicotine. So effective has the ruse been thatalmost 25 years passed between the time when tobaccocompanies realized nicotine was addictive and an officialannouncement was made by any American governmentauthority stating this fact. U.S. Surgeon General C. EverettKoop boldly stated in his yearly report in 1988 that nicotinewas addictive and that the “pharmacologic and behavioralprocesses that determine tobacco addiction are similar tothose that determine addiction to drugs such as heroineand cocaine” (Pringle 87).

The pressure to tell the whole truth was turned up on thetobacco companies that day, and has been ever since. Thetobacco industry knew for years that they were marketing ahighly addictive drug, and the public began to find outabout it. Whistleblowers, lawsuits, and subpoenaeddocuments brought to light the extent to which tobaccocompanies exploited the addictiveness of nicotine. Tobegin with, tobacco companies took strides to decreasesome of the ill effects of smoking, all the while ensuringthat nicotine levels were kept at optimum levels. Tobaccocompanies introduced additives such as ammonia toincrease the efficiency of the body’s absorption of nicotine.One tobacco company blender’s notebook reads:“ammonia can act as an impact booster . . . ammoniatechnology will deliver more flavor compounds, includingnicotine, into smoke than one without it” (Pringle 112).

Also, a new tobacco plant, dubbed Y1 in the late 1970s,produced more than twice the nicotine levels of commontobacco plants. The developer, tobacco company Brown &Williamson, protected the product in hidden overseaspatents and grew it offshore, in Brazil, as a way ofcircumventing the scrutiny of both the industry and thepublic (Pringle 108).

Actions such as these made it readily apparent thatnicotine was the primary focus of the tobacco companiesfor marketing their product to the public. U.S. SurgeonGeneral C. Everett Koop’s 1988 declaration that nicotine isan addictive drug set into motion an eye opening era forthe public. Congress began limiting the marketplacesavailable for cigarette advertisements. Tobacco companieswatched their sales begin to drop. Then, on April 14, 1994,



the tobacco companies epitomized the lies they werewilling to tell for the sake of selling their product. Seventobacco company executives, each representing a differenttobacco company and four of whom were chief executiveofficers, appeared before Congress, raised their righthands, and swore that nicotine is not addictive(Mollenkamp 50).

Concurrently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) wasattempting to show that tobacco companies were deliveringa drug “intended to affect the structure or function of thebody of man or animals.” If given this legal definition, thelaw would allow the FDA to regulate tobacco as a medicaldevice intended for the distribution of a drug (Pringle 174).

Also, several states brought lawsuits against the tobaccocompanies to recover monies spent battling smoke relatedillnesses of people within their respective states. Hence thetobacco companies pitched a fervent battle in the courts tohold back the ebbing tide which had carried them so far. Inthe past Congress performed such helpful steps for thetobacco industry as excluding tobacco products from the1975 Federal Hazardous Substances Act (FHSA) andincluding an exception for tobacco in the 1976 ToxicSubstances Control Act (TSCA) which empowered theEnvironmental Protection Agency (EPA) to regulatechemical substances that might pose a threat to health.Now Congress began to take a stance before the tobaccocompanies demanding accountability for the detrimentaleffects of their product (Pringle 175).

Tobacco companies lost the leash on the nicotine beastand were furiously grasping for it. Meanwhile, rulings infavor of the FDA regulating tobacco as a drug deliverydevice were passed in April 1997 when a U.S. Districtjudge sided with the FDA (Mollenkamp 254).

Tobacco companies appealed and the subsequent rulingby the U.S. Supreme Court was that the FDA lacked theauthority to regulate tobacco. Alas, tobacco companiesrecovered the leash. Today, the FDA is fighting the correctwar, but perhaps they need to change battles. There canbe no doubt that nicotine is addictive and that it isdelivered in a deadly manner. In fact, no other productssold in America, save guns, are as deadly when used asthe manufacturer intended. Nicotine is regulated by theFDA as a drug when delivered by nicotine patches or gum,but cigarettes are not considered a drug delivery device.Having lost that battle, the FDA should take steps to havenicotine listed as a controlled substance. Tobaccocompanies have shown that they are not trustworthy withthe responsibility of ensuring smokers’ best healthinterests. If the FDA cannot regulate America’s biggestkiller, the drug nicotine, then the responsibility should shiftto an agency that can, the Drug Enforcement Agency(DEA). Currently, the Controlled Substance Act expresslyexcludes tobacco as a controlled substance. Removal ofthis clause would empower Congress to place a ban onnicotine, enabling the DEA regulatory powers over theproduction of tobacco. In essence, all shelters for the



tobacco companies created by Congress should beimmediately rescinded. Tobacco companies have proven tohave never acted in good faith, and any privileges acquiredunder those pretenses should therefore be nullified.Tobacco companies should be forced to remove nicotinefrom their products. In fact Phillip Morris has, in the past,marketed a nicotine free cigarette called Next (Pringle 105).

The final analysis shows that nicotine should not bemarketed freely to the American public, especially underthe guise that it is the smoker’s freedom of choice tosmoke cigarettes. The true freedom in that decision hasbeen forestalled by the lies of the tobacco companies. Onlyafter removing the drug nicotine from the equation can thesmoker make a true choice on whether or not to continuepurchasing tobacco related products, thereby impactingAmerica’s largest killer – smoking. One role of the UnitedStates Government is to step in and protect consumersfrom a product that could risk their health and lives. Now isthe time for the Government to take control of the nicotineaddiction. Labeling the drug nicotine a controlledsubstance and banning it from all tobacco products shouldbe the next step.

****

Liver TransplantsBy Karina Kinnear

Scientists have been doing research for decades on newprocedures and medicines to help those in societyovercome certain illnesses. There are several illnesses thatcause an organ to fail, such as Hepatitis C, HIV, Cancerand additional diseases concerning the survival of theimmune system. Organ transplants are commonly used tosustain the recipient’s life. Worldwide, the need for livertransplants is on the rise. These procedures need to bemade more cost effective, less discriminative and high costmedications should be made available for the lessfortunate.

The United States and neighboring countries have formeda coalition for organ donations, called the United Networksfor Organ Sharing (UNOS). This worldwide network is toassist in saving human lives in need of an operating organ.Currently there are 90,416 candidates awaiting a possibleorgan transplant. 72,954 are residents of the United States(“Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network”). Thefinancial backing it takes to correlate and prosecute suchprocedures are substantially high. View Figure 1 for totalliver transplants performed in the United States by yearand ethnical background ( American Liver Foundation).

The average cost of a liver transplant could hinder familymembers between $30,000 and $700,000 dollars accordingto Canada’s leading Medical journal CMAJ (Sullivan).

The following determine whether or not one can qualify fora liver transplant: Alcohol abuse, cancer, advanced heart



and/or lung disease, HIV infections and associated braininjury due to the fluid build up from the damaged liver(“Liver Transplants”).

The scale used in determining a good candidate for liverorgan transplants is theoretically fair and balanced, but inreality distribution is not equal. Questions of ethical use ofpower, money and fame became apparent when MickeyMantel received a liver transplant in 1995 after a short timeon the waiting list (Askari). Mickey Mantel is known for hisalcohol abuse, as is actor Larry Hagman who underwent aliver transplant in 1995 due to his abuse of alcohol (”LarryHagman”).

These are just two case facts that have been openlyadmitted by the liver recipients themselves. The chances oftwo famous people getting a liver transplant in the sameyear flags suspicious odds. The question of fair distributionof liver transplants is more common than expected. TheUniversity of Pittsburgh Medical Center has been accusedof wrongly overlooking possible candidates at the VeteransAffair Hospital in Oakland. Brenda Salvas, a manager ofthe liver and kidney transplant program for the VA inWashington, questioned sending working organs toPittsburgh Medical Center. In the line of questioning, theexplanations given were simple and politically correct. Thethirty or so skipped on the liver transplant list from the VAwere not good matches for the organ transplant(Snowbeck).

The controversy over the fairness given to those on thewaiting list is still being debated. Unfortunately there is noguarantee how long a person waits for a working organ.The organ transplant must match the blood type of therecipient in hopes that not only the match is successful,but the liver does not reject the organ. Rare blood types asAB can shorten the waiting period, but those with the mostcommon blood types as type A, O and B typically havelonger time intervals due to the popular demand of theirparticular blood type. The wait for an organ could rangefrom months to years, these organs are from deceasedindividuals that may have passed on from an unfortunateaccident. The grieving families of the recently departed areto make the decision whether or not to release the workingorgan. People who hold fame, money and power haverepeatedly used these factors in gaining their selfish needand walking on the less fortunate. The military does notdiscriminate against fame or fortune, but it holds the powerto make sure those who are serving or have served get theproper medical care. The large sign reads “Be All You CanBe.” It does not say “You Will Be Forgotten When You CanNo Longer Perform Your Duties.” When does thegovernment claim responsibility for actions taken by itsmilitary? The military denies any knowledge of Hepatitis Cin the Vietnam War. This is factual considering this diseasewas not discovered until 1989 (Askari). The number ofsoldiers after Vietnam who contracted Hepatitis C are wellin the age range provided in Figure 2 (American LiverFoundation). Denying any responsibility due to ignorance ofthis virus is cruel and unacceptable. The conditions that



our soldiers were introduced to in Vietnam may havecaptured more than political obscurities. Retired StaffSergeant Davidson was stationed in three differentlocations during the war against the North Vietcong. Hewas stationed in Like and Thunder three which was inSouth Vietnam and DaNang in North Vietnam (Davidson).In an interview with retired Staff Sergeant Davidson of theU.S. Army these founding facts have truth and we shouldquestion our government’s denial for assisting those thathave fought to protect Americans rights to their freedoms.Staff Sergeant Davidson spent two terms in Vietnam from1968-1971; he was trained in Special Forces, Paratrooping, and was a respected Platoon leader (Davidson,2005).

During Mr. Davidson’s two tours in Vietnam he sustainedinjuries from a Claymore mine, shrapnel and a near fatalstab wound in the stomach. He received two bloodtransfusions out in the field among his fellow brothers ofwar. No questions were asked from this faithful man ofwar, but just to know that he was doing what his countryasked of him. During this time of blood transfusions theydid not test for Hepatitis C. Unfortunately Mr. Davidsonnow has Hepatitis C and is currently doing his medicaltreatments to determine if he can qualify for a livertransplant. The question that weighs heavily on this retiredsoldier’s mind is not whether or not he wants to live, buthow many generations will be financially responsible forwhat life he may have left. The graph shows age groups ofperformed transplants and 49% of these were of theenlisted age of the Vietnam war.

Since the discovery of Hepatitis C in 1989, researchscientists have maintained a steady pace to find a cure tosubside this infectious strand. This disease attacks the livermaking its functions difficult and deadly. Currently withinfectious treatments, a household income can be cursedto lose thousands of dollars a month; even with insurancecoverage the amount left over is greatly damaging. Thegovernment does not recognize the thousands that havecaught Hepatitis C during blood transfusions in Vietnam.Specialists have prescribed treatment drugs that helpmaintain the immune System: Interferon, ribavirin andnutritional efforts (Askari).

The Interferon is a copy of a protein found in low levels inthe human body it is known for an immune regulatory andanti-inflammatory (Tilg).

The Ribavirin brings down liver enzymes but it has shownless positive results than the Interferon (Hepatitis-Central).

The cost for Alpha Interferon is $2000 a shot and theRibavirin tablets are $263. These treatments are not cures,but another method to sustain someone until his numbercomes up on the organ transplant waiting list. There is noguarantee for anyone waiting on the transplant list. Thelives of these unfortunate souls are in the hands of amiracle. The chances of a liver transplant is comparable towinning the lottery. The efforts of our medical experts are



to be recognized and appreciated by those awaiting somemiracle cure, but this does not give a reason for placing aprice on any human life. Struggles of our society as awhole do not give those with power the right to determinewhose life is more precious than the next. The hardshipsthat we have had to endure to maintain the cost of freedomin this country should give rise to a government thatrecognizes those faithful to the stars and stripes.

There is a loss of patriotism in this country and this maybe due to the failure of our country as a whole. Every voiceshould be heard, every American should exercise his orher responsibility for those who are being unjustly passedover during their wait for survival.

Works Cited

Askari, Fred. Hepatitis C The Epidemic. New York: N.Y.1999.

Davidson, Jeffery. Personal interview. 24, Nov. 2005.

Hepatitis C Information Center. Hepatitis-Central. 3 Dec.2005.

“Larry Hagman.” Famous Texans on the web. 3 Dec. 2005.

Lawerence W. Wat and Gerad M. Doherty. CurrentSurgical Diagnosis & Treatment. 11th ed. New York N.Y.2003.

Liver Foundation .org. The American Liver Foundation.2003. 17 Nov. 2005 .

“Liver transplants.” eMedicine Consumer Health on line. 10Aug. 2005. 17 Nov. 2005.

Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network. UnitedNetwork for Organ Sharing. 18 Nov. 2005. 24 Nov. 2005.

Snowbeck, Christopher. “VA questions UPMC on livertransplants.” Post-Gazette.com. 1 Oct. 2003. 3 Dec. 2005< www.postgazette.com/pg/03274/227515.stm>.

Sullivan, Patrick. “Cost of Liver Transplants Varies Widely.”CMAJ Canada’s Medical Journal on the web. 17 Nov.2005. 4 Dec. 2002.

Tilg, H. “What is Interferon.” Gastroenterology 112: 1017-1021 1997. 3 Dec. 2005 .

****

Globalization Is Detrimental to America’s Economy By Ronald Howell

A global economic transformation is underway that isaffecting all Americans, especially college students(Friedman 3). Multinational corporations shifting research,



technology, legal, medical, and financial jobs to cheaperforeign labor markets have college students reconsideringtheir major fields of study and career goals. This newtrend, called globalization, is justified by multinationalcorporations as a cost reduction measure to remaincompetitive in a global marketplace. However, otherscontend Multinational Corporations are attempting tobecome more profitable at the expense of American jobs.By misunderstanding the law of comparative advantage,forcing American wages lower, and exploiting cheap foreignlabor markets, Multination Corporations are demonstratingwhy Globalization is detrimental to America’s economy.Gregory Mankiw, President George W. Bush’s leadeconomic advisor, believes that multinational corporationsmoving American jobs to cheaper foreign labor markets willnot adversely affect the American economy (Drezner 22).

He sites the law of comparative advantage, which statesthat it is mutually beneficial for two countries to trade, eventhough one country provides a product or service muchcheaper than the other does. Jobs lost in one sector of theeconomy will cause a reallocation of resources to a moreprofitable sector, according to the theory. The law ofcomparative advantage only works when trade betweentwo countries are in balance (Dobbs 106). America’s tradedeficit is presently at record highs (Dobbs 29).

During the 1970s and 1980s, companies began relocatingtheir manufacturing capability to lower wage and non-unionized southern states as a cost reduction measure.The law of comparative advantage worked well in this casebecause the American economy still benefited from the taxbase these jobs provided and southern states exportedproducts sold in the north (Dobbs 48). However,Multinational Corporations relocating their manufacturingcapability to cheaper foreign labor markets is detrimental tothe American economy because jobs and tax revenue arelost forever. Consumers in these foreign markets usuallycannot afford American products or their governmentsprohibit American imports. Multinational Corporationsappear more concerned with their own profitability, ratherthan the well-being of the American economy. Anotherpopular argument for globalization is that Americanconsumers are demanding lower prices (Friedman 129).

Large multinational corporations are finding cheaper labormarkets in China, Indonesia, and India, and then relocatingentire portions of their supply chain there. This supplychain optimization, referred to as global outsourcing,always results in dramatically lower production costs forthe Multinational Corporation and cheaper prices forconsumers. However, these cheaper prices come at a costto the American economy. When global outsourcing occurs,the American supplier, formerly part of the multinationalcorporation’s supply chain, usually fails. Employees whohave lost their jobs often find it difficult to find employmentat the same salary and benefit level, which results in moredownward pressure on prices. This destructive pattern,called the race to the bottom, will have devastating effectson the American economy (Dobbs 32).



Lou Dobbs, author of the book Exporting America, believesthe race to the bottom will eliminate the American middleclass. American government officials believe thatglobalization and global outsourcing have importantpolitical benefits (Drezner 22).

These officials believe it is politically prudent to reward itsallies with lucrative outsourcing agreements. Doing soencourages America’s allies to reduce their trade barriersto American goods and services, increase their investmentin American businesses, and makes them more likely toadopt democratic reforms. The American government alsoargues that globalization is a stabilizing force in the world.Countries that are economically interdependent on Americaare less likely to support military action against it. However,one of the most common reasons a multinationalcorporation decides to outsource jobs to a foreign labormarket is the lack of environmental regulations in the hostcountry (Dobbs).

These countries often lack laws protecting workers’ safety,prohibiting child labor, or requiring a minimum wage.Multinational corporations exploit this fact by creating lowwage jobs, when compared to the equivalent American job,with no fringe benefits. This practice exploits the workforce in the host country. Multinational Corporations defendtheir actions by claiming their payroll is comparable toother companies in the region. Many believe that theAmerican government needs to play a more active roleensuring that multinational corporations outsource jobs,while simultaneously exporting American values.Globalization is not beneficial to the American economy inits present form. Global outsourcing has already affected ahuge portion of the manufacturing sector and a goodportion of the technology sector by relocating jobs tocheaper foreign labor markets. The law of comparativeadvantage is not valid largely because of America’s largetrade deficit. Consumers’ desire for lower priced goods andservices are a normal economic component butmultinational corporations are accelerating these desires ina race to the bottom, which will result in an overalllowering of American wages.

While there may be political benefits for America andeconomic benefits for foreign economies in the short term,many countries will eventually recognize the exploitation oftheir environments and work force. When this happens, thebacklash against America will be economically crippling.America’s government must pass legislation to regulateGlobalization, and limit its adverse effects on the Americaneconomy. It is critical that this legislation support balancedtrade, and eliminate America’s enormous trade deficit.These recommendations are common sense rather thanprotectionist. Globalization devoid of fair, free, andbalanced trade is detrimental to America’s economy.





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Quick Facts QUICK FACTS -- February 2006

In compliance with the U.S. Department of Education Drug-Free Schoolsand Campuses Act, Collin conducted its fifth biennial Drug Awareness andPerception Survey in fall 2004 to determine the effectiveness of its drugprevention policies.

Following are some finding from the survey. Higher percentages of females than males considered drugs "extremelydangerous."

Older respondents (30 years and over) considered drugs, alcohol andtobacco more dangerous than did younger respondents (below 30 years).

When it came to perceptions of Collin students' alcohol, tobacco, and drugconsumption, respondents felt that alcohol was the most consumedfollowed by tobacco, and marijuana. Heroin was perceived as the leastconsumed. "Stress relief" (35 percent) was perceived as the primary reason for druguse followed by "peer pressure" (33 percent) and the belief that "everyonedoes it" (18 percent).

"Stress relief" (35 percent) was also perceived as the primary reason foralcohol/tobacco use, followed by the belief that "everyone does it" (33percent) and "peer pressure" (20 percent).

More females than males perceived "stress relief" as the primary reasonstudents consumed alcohol/tobacco and drugs.

Seventy-five percent of the respondents associated alcohol and drug usewith "traffic accidents," 65 percent with "suicide," 62 percent with "sexualassault" and "poor academic performance," and 46 percent with "personalinjuries"

Overall, respondents¡¦ awareness of resources/activities offered by Collinwas low: 35 percent were familiar with counseling services, 26 percentwith educational material, 19 percent with resource library, 18 percentwith referral information, 11 percent with special presentations, and 8percent with special exhibits. Source: Drug Awareness and PerceptionSurvey 2004.

For details see:http://intranet.ccccd.edu/iro/information/reports/pdf/2004drugawareness.pdf.

For questions or comments contact: Nasreen Ahmad, 972.758.3810.









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Collin News: Your life’s work? Do what you love


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Your life’s work? Do what you love By Lydia A. GoberDirector, Career Services & Co-op

• What do you really do best? • What do you enjoy doing the most that you could not livewithout doing? • What do you do most easily? • What is most interesting to you?

These questions could be asked to help us explore andfind answers to the ever present question facing collegestudents and many others. We could also ask ourselves --What career would make me feel passionate aboutworking? What is success; what is a career? What would“passionate” look and feel like? And is career successreally about the money?

In a book called "Roadtrip Nation: A Guide to DiscoveringYour Path in Life" by Mike Marriner and Nathan Gebhardwith Joanne Gordon, discuss their adventures in careerexploration just before their senior year at PepperdineUniversity in California. They decided to go on a roadtriparound the country to interview people in all types ofcareers. These students were desperately trying to answertheir parents’ and peers’ continuous query “What are yougoing to do with the rest of your life?”

These career travelers called this, “the noise.” In reflectingon their interviews, they wrote this book and they give ussome sign posts for our own adventure in discovering whatwe might love to do for our life’s work.

Here are a few conclusions:

It is always good to plan your career path, and then beflexible and open.

Remember that along the road to your career, you maytake side roads which could take you back to theintersection or lead you further on in a different direction.

It is acceptable to not know what will be your life’swork/career, even while in college.

Follow an academic path that will help you move forward,but continue to consider your options.

Remember, it may take several years, several attempts toidentify your ideal work.








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Look for a career that allows you to balance home, work,social life, etc.

Ask yourself if it is truly about the money. If it is, you maynot be on the road to the best career for you. Would youlike to pursue further roadtrips to discover a highway to thework you could love?

Watch for more about career paths, road signs androadtrips in March. Especially keep on the lookout for“Roadtrip Interviews” during Career Week 2006: Travels inCareering, April 3-7. For help with career exploration andplanning, contact your Career Center on each maincampus, PRC: F109, SCC G103, CPC A108.






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Music Review -- The Strokes “First Impressions of Earth” The Strokes

By Mark Robinson

Nowadays, it is easy to get all tangled up in the sticky webof celebritydom if one is inclined to … or beautiful enough.

In 2001, The Strokes seemingly glided onto magazinecovers by A) having kooky haircuts and bohemian/Nü-Yorkfashion; and B) recording music relatively foreign to themass media and hapless wannabe hipsters across thenation.

Five years later, The Strokes have seemingly fallen out offavor with that ever-so-fickle temptress called Hype. Now,they are just a band, who will sell out larger clubs, butnever really capture the media-blitz magic of 2001.

With that said, lead singer Julian Casablancas and Co.attempt to shield their eyes from the blazing spotlight whichtends to envelope even the most unsuspecting of bands.

Their newest opus, “First Impressions of Earth,” is not bad,but it is not good either. The group starts off with lo-fimodern rock songs and excruciating single “Juicebox,” withthe only redeeming quality is having comedian David Crossin the music video.

“Juicebox” is one big whine-fest and the only cheese is inthe bassline.

However, the album takes a pleasant twist with “Vision ofDivision,” “Ask me Anything” and “Electricityscape.” Thebest track is “15 minutes” – a meandering waltz filled withCasablancas working up to a grand crescendo vocally, andthe band paving a whimsical road with guitarists NickValensi and Albert Hammond Jr. rediscovering theirrapport.

If we learn nothing else from “First Impressions of Earth,”remember this nugget from Casablancas: “Don’t be acoconut/God is trying to talk to you.”

Two out of five paws [PRINTER FRIENDLY VERSION]









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Falling for February flicks By Jennifer Baker Student Correspondent

Start looking for those gifts because Valentine’s Day isapproaching. So if you’re looking for something to do onyour date, I have an idea you will love. All you singlepeople out there do not worry. I have you covered as well.Yes, I hold the key to three movies you just have to see.

This month, Tyler Perry brings another one of his hilariousplays to the big screen with “Madea’s Family Reunion”Friday, Feb. 24. In his new comedy, Perry continues thestory of the clever, rambunctious Madea as she tackles herbiggest challenge yet … her family. Along with being incharge of planning this year’s family reunion, she also hasto deal with her nieces, played by Rochelle Aytes and LynWhitfield, and their relationship problems as well as takecare of Nikki, played by Keke Palmer, a girl who is nowunder her care. As the family gets together for all thefestivities, secrets come out that will turn this reunionupside down. But, Madea is determined to keep everyonetogether and teach them the meaning of family. Tyler Perry,Cicely Tyson, Maya Angelou and Blair Underwood star inis highly entertaining comedy. “Madea’s Family Reunion” israted PG 13 for mature material, domestic violence, sexand drug references.

Get ready for this years Valentine’s Day movie, “Failure toLaunch.” Matthew McConaughy plays a 35-year-oldbachelor looking for love. However, there is only oneproblem: he still lives with his parents, whichunderstandably does not help his relationships. Determinedto get their son out of the house, his parents, played byKathy Bates and Terry Bradshaw, go to extreme measuresto motivate their son. So they hire the women of their son’sdreams, a beautiful professional motivator played by SarahJessica Parker to help their son along the way. Her task isto date him while executing her three-step program. Onlythings between them do not go as planned. “Failure toLaunch” also stars Justin Bartha and Zooey Deschanel.This movie is not yet rated and comes to theaters Friday,Feb. 10.

Look for Harrison Ford as he stars in this month’s high-anticipated action thriller “Firewall.” Ford plays JackStanton, a well-respected man and the head of security atLandrock Pacific Bank in Seattle. He has recentlydeveloped an anti-theft computer program that will changebanks’ security across the nation, making it hard forhackers to penetrate the firewall. Little does Jack know that








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every aspect of their life has been monitored by Bill Cox,played by Paul Bettany, who plans to break through Jack’sprogram. Using Jack’s wife, played by Virginia Madsen,and children as leverage, he forces Jack to find a hole inhis computer program and steal $100 million dollars. Now itis a race against time as Jack works to save his family andhis career. “Firewall” also stars Robert Patrick, CarlySchroeder, Mary Lynn Rajskub and Robert Forster. Thismovie is rated PG 13 for some intense sequences ofviolence. The race against time starts Friday, Feb. 10. [PRINTER FRIENDLY VERSION]





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The Write Way This month’s column continues emphasizing correct usage,for, as students soon learn from their professors' remarks,the most efficiently organized essay is worthless if itsdiction leaves readers scratching their heads. As we havenoted before, hundreds of words appearing similar inmeaning are actually dissimilar. To follow up on the lastcolumn's promise, the column concludes with a fourth ruleof standard comma placement. Underlined words in thefollowing sentences below may or may not be correct.

If incorrect, do you know the correct parentheticalreplacement?

1. "While visiting London, we stayed at the city's most(luxuriant / luxurious) spa."

2. "What course of study would be a more (apropos /appropriate) addition to the courses I took last semester?"

3. “Do you happen to know (who’s / whose) lunch is on mydesk?”

4. ("In regards to / In regard to) your recent inquiry, weregret to inform you that we no longer carry that item."

5. "His parents were never (jealous / envious) of theirneighbors' newer cars."

• Corrected, the first sentence should read this way: "Whilevisiting London, we stayed at the city's most luxuriousspa." To be luxuriant is to have thick or abundant growth("The uncharacteristically harsh winter produced a luxuriantgrowth in our beaver population") whereas "luxurious," alsoan adjective, indicates wealth and comfort.

• Sentence #2 reveals a common misunderstandingbetween "apropos," meaning relevant to the past, and"appropriate," meaning suitable for an occasion orcircumstance. Acceptance of "apropos" (for readersunfamiliar with the word, the letter "s" is silent) as anappropriate synonym for "appropriate" is admittedly (sigh)gaining ground in everyday usage.

• Sentence #3 should read this way: “Do you happen toknow whose lunch is on my desk?” Like the misuse of thecontraction “it’s” (meaning “it is” or “it has”) for thepossessive case “its,” the misuse of the contraction “who’s”(meaning “who is” or “who has”) is a failure to recall thatpossessive pronouns NEVER take apostrophes.(Possessive pronouns by their very nature already denote








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possession without the use of an apostrophe.)

• Sentence #4 may be especially helpful to those engagedin writing letters and memos. The sentence should startwith "In regard to," not "In regards to." Although stuffy, thephrase "as regards to" is also acceptable (contributing, nodoubt, to the confusion of the other phrases).

• The final sentence should read this way: "His parentswere never envious of their neighbors' newer cars." To beenvious is to envy what others have; to be jealous is towant to keep what one already has. Typically, jealousyinvolves relationships: "His jealousy of her attraction toother friends destroyed the relationship."

A fourth standard rule of commas: Use commas to joinintroductory elements to the rest of the sentence.

Introductory clauses: Please note in particular the use ofthe comma in a complex sentence when the dependent(subordinate) clause comes first:

"Because I could not stop for death, he kindly stopped forme."

When the independent clause comes first, however, andthe dependent clause comes last in the sentence, OMITthe comma: "Death kindly stopped for me because I couldnot stop for him."

Unfortunately, many writers—journalists in particular—undermine correct instruction by misplacing the commabefore a subordinating conjunction like the word "because"("Death kindly stopped for me, because I could not stop forhim").

Introductory phrases: "After eating, the male lion restedin the nearby shade." Without the comma following"eating," a reader would make an errant assumption aboutthe real subject of the sentence. The use of a comma afterintroductory words, no matter how few, is always correct:"Thus, we applauded their progress."

Space permitting, the next column will include additionalrules of comma placement.

As always, I welcome suggestions from students, staff, andfaculty for these monthly columns and shall try to use theircontributions in future columns. Should you have a topicyou’d like discussed here, please write me [email protected] . You may also telephone me at972.881.5981. Students wishing improved writing skills willfind useful links to a dozen or so English grammar sites athttp://iws.ccccd.edu/jmiller/jmiller.htm . [PRINTER FRIENDLY VERSION]





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Transfer Tip Advice from College/University Advisors andCounselors

Advising Get in touch with an advisor at the college oruniversity as early as you possibly can--the soonerthe better. Ask a billion questions and leave nostone unturned.

Dream Job What will you need for your dream job? Whichuniversity or college will give you the educationyour will need for your dream job?

Preparation Excellent preparation for your major is veryimportant. As you take courses at Collin that willapply to your major, you are laying a foundationfor success when you transfer.

Embrace Change Transferring to a new college can mean a lot ofchange in routines and perceptions. Don’t worry ifyou make mistakes. Rather, expect them and usethem to help you learn.

E-mail If you provide prospective colleges with your e-mailaddress, let them know if you have changed it.Colleges are leaning more toward e-mailcommunication with prospective students.

Application Stay on top of your application process. Do nottake for granted that the college has received all ofyour admission materials.

Plan B What if you do not get into the college or universityyou have your heart set upon? What if you are notaccepted into your chosen major at that college?Apply to more that one college or university thatwill fit your needs, and you will be prepared if youhave to shift to “Plan B.”

For more tips, please visithttp://transferu.ccccd.edu/tips.html. For moreinformation about Transfer Programs, call972.985.3734 or visit http://transferu.ccccd.edu. [PRINTER FRIENDLY VERSION]










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ubuntu: the theme for african-american history month

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