Central Michigan University students found themselves embarrassed after using their creativity to fuel a successful show on campus Wednesday night.
Well-known hypnotist Tom DeLuca is no stranger to CMU’s campus. He made his annual appearance and chose 25 volunteers from the audience to join him on stage.
DeLuca hypnotized the entire group by playing soft music, while teaching them to breathe a certain way with their eyes closed. Soon after, heads lowered and DeLuca was ready to entertain.
He started by making them believe they were driving Ferrari’s, while speeding away from police and avoiding a dog in the road. Their reactions were believable.
DeLuca chose specific individuals to perform various tasks. “The person’s head I’m tapping right now, deep, deep asleep,” he said. “When you hear me say Mt. Pleasant, you’re going to think you’re Central’s ultimate cheerleader.”
CMU sophomore Matt Loomis got the audience involved with various cheers and movements.
Loomis only remembers being summoned onto the stage and “waking up at the end.” His friends revealed the humorous acts he performed.
“I really did that,” Loomis said. “I wish someone had it on video.”
Two men were hypnotized to be professional ballerinas and they danced their way around the stage and with each other.
The entire show lasted almost two hours and drew continuous laughter and amusement from the audience.
CMU junior Kristen Hales described her experience as “dream-like” and said mentally she was full of energy, but her body was exhausted.
“I have no idea what just happened,” Hales said. “I’m going to wear a bag over my head to classes.”
Hales was probably tired after dancing to Michael Jackson’s “Thriller,” when she did an impressive moon-walk dance.
“Keep your eye on her, she’s dangerous,” DeLuca said.
Another woman was dubbed “Chief of Fun Police” so anytime the audience laughed she reacted angrily.
CMU junior Audrey Martin was in the audience and was caught off guard when the woman spoke directly at her for “having too much fun.”
“She threatened she’d put me in jail,” Martin said. “It kind of scared me when she was yelling right at me.”
On The Fly Productions hosted the annual event, which was free to the public.
Nearly every seat in Warriner Hall was filled and no one left disappointed.
Friday, December 12, 2008
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Stresses Rise Finals Week
By: Nick Baker
The school year is filled with homework, tests, projects and quizzes, all which cause pressures to rise in college students, but it’s the week of finals that anxiety levels reach their peak.
Finals tests usually encompass an entire semester’s worth of information, forcing students to go back to information they learned months ago. This idea of having to remember such a vast amount of information can be daunting to a person, and in many cases, seems overwhelming.
Tommy Keegan, a senior from Berkley MI, is facing four tests with cumulative questions on them and he is having a hard time handling them.
“All my tests in my biology and chemistry courses have me remembering stuff from the start of the school year,” said Tommy, “I have to study for hour’s everyday just to prepare and I probably still won’t do very good on them.”
This stress can be health damaging and lead to a lack of sleep in many students and many have to deal with the anxiety in different ways.
“I try and watch TV to get my mind off of it,” said Tommy, “or I’ll play video games or hang out with friends, anything to stop myself from worry and think about something else.”
That’s not the only way to relieve your stress here in Mount Pleasant; many of the dorms bring in therapy dogs meant to release the pressure of finals. Jessica Wilt, a freshman from Berkley MI, in particular felt the dogs were very helpful.
“I loved the dogs,” said Jessica, “They really helped me get the tests off my mind. I’ve never taken a final in college before so I don’t know what to expect, it’s been really hard for me. The therapy dogs just really helped me relax a little.”
Even with pressure building up this time of year, many of those who feel the stress on the rise find a way to bring it back down. There are many options available for college students to relieve the anxiety that finals cause, all of which should be used if you feel the demands of the tests are getting to you.
The school year is filled with homework, tests, projects and quizzes, all which cause pressures to rise in college students, but it’s the week of finals that anxiety levels reach their peak.
Finals tests usually encompass an entire semester’s worth of information, forcing students to go back to information they learned months ago. This idea of having to remember such a vast amount of information can be daunting to a person, and in many cases, seems overwhelming.
Tommy Keegan, a senior from Berkley MI, is facing four tests with cumulative questions on them and he is having a hard time handling them.
“All my tests in my biology and chemistry courses have me remembering stuff from the start of the school year,” said Tommy, “I have to study for hour’s everyday just to prepare and I probably still won’t do very good on them.”
This stress can be health damaging and lead to a lack of sleep in many students and many have to deal with the anxiety in different ways.
“I try and watch TV to get my mind off of it,” said Tommy, “or I’ll play video games or hang out with friends, anything to stop myself from worry and think about something else.”
That’s not the only way to relieve your stress here in Mount Pleasant; many of the dorms bring in therapy dogs meant to release the pressure of finals. Jessica Wilt, a freshman from Berkley MI, in particular felt the dogs were very helpful.
“I loved the dogs,” said Jessica, “They really helped me get the tests off my mind. I’ve never taken a final in college before so I don’t know what to expect, it’s been really hard for me. The therapy dogs just really helped me relax a little.”
Even with pressure building up this time of year, many of those who feel the stress on the rise find a way to bring it back down. There are many options available for college students to relieve the anxiety that finals cause, all of which should be used if you feel the demands of the tests are getting to you.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
CMU Board of Trustees makes end of year business deals
By: Michael McArthur
CMU’s Board of Trustees met last Thursday to conduct end of the year business and to begin planning for next year. One aspect of business that was conducted was the increase of President Michael Rao’s contract and salary.
President Rao’s contract was extended to the year 2016 and he will also see a 3% salary rise going from $293,550 to $302,357. Rao is currently in his 8th year as the President of CMU making him the third longest serving university president in the state of Michigan.
While it seems that Rao has put in the time and effort to warrant such a raise, there are those who are skeptical about the extension and salary hike. Flint senior LaMarcus Howard represents those who are skeptical.
“Granted President Rao has put in the years to warrant the money, but we are just coming off the threat of a faculty strike,” Howard said. “If he was given a raise just because the Board thought he deserved one at this time, I find the timing very interesting.”
Along with the salary rise, the board also approved an increase in the president's retention bonus from $80,000 to $100,000.
Howard also went on to say that with big salary increases comes more responsibility and that he believes President Rao should take a more hands on approach with the university now that he has been granted a larger contract.
In addition to the extension of the president’s contract the board said goodbye to chairman Jeffrey R. Caponigro and vice chairman John G. Kulhavi. Both men’s trustee terms expire at the end of the year, but they will stay on board until Governor Granholm names their successors.
CMU’s Board of Trustees met last Thursday to conduct end of the year business and to begin planning for next year. One aspect of business that was conducted was the increase of President Michael Rao’s contract and salary.
President Rao’s contract was extended to the year 2016 and he will also see a 3% salary rise going from $293,550 to $302,357. Rao is currently in his 8th year as the President of CMU making him the third longest serving university president in the state of Michigan.
While it seems that Rao has put in the time and effort to warrant such a raise, there are those who are skeptical about the extension and salary hike. Flint senior LaMarcus Howard represents those who are skeptical.
“Granted President Rao has put in the years to warrant the money, but we are just coming off the threat of a faculty strike,” Howard said. “If he was given a raise just because the Board thought he deserved one at this time, I find the timing very interesting.”
Along with the salary rise, the board also approved an increase in the president's retention bonus from $80,000 to $100,000.
Howard also went on to say that with big salary increases comes more responsibility and that he believes President Rao should take a more hands on approach with the university now that he has been granted a larger contract.
In addition to the extension of the president’s contract the board said goodbye to chairman Jeffrey R. Caponigro and vice chairman John G. Kulhavi. Both men’s trustee terms expire at the end of the year, but they will stay on board until Governor Granholm names their successors.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Plowing the Streets of Lake Isabella
By: Nick Baker
Snow storms are now almost a daily occurrence in Mid-Michigan and that means more problems for drivers on slippery roads.
For cities like Mount Pleasant, the road commissions handle the plowing of streets. They use their allotted funds, salt supplies and plow trunks to clear the way for people to safely drive to their destinations.
The village of Lake Isabella though doesn’t have a road commission though and has to find someone else to plow their streets for their local residents. That hasn’t been a problem for Village Manager Tim Wolff, who has found the perfect solution.
The Village of Lake Isabella employs Wilcox Excavation to clear the snow off their streets and according to Tim they have been doing business together for close to a decade.
.”They do a great job,” said Tim, “We haven’t got any complaints and have been very happy with the job that they do.”
With the price of Diesel still fairly high, even after the drastic drop in fuel prices, an increase in Wilcox’s fee might sway Tim’s decision to stay with them. Instead, Wilcox lowered their prices from the following year.
“Their prices are based on fuel prices,” said Tim, “this year they went down. Last year we paid $115 per hour and this year we are only paying $90, which is their standard fee.”
Even without a road commission, Lake Isabella manages to make their streets safe for its residents, which is especially important with the snowy start we have had this winter.
“We aren’t going to change businesses anytime soon,” said Tim, “and they haven’t given us a reason to think otherwise.”
Snow storms are now almost a daily occurrence in Mid-Michigan and that means more problems for drivers on slippery roads.
For cities like Mount Pleasant, the road commissions handle the plowing of streets. They use their allotted funds, salt supplies and plow trunks to clear the way for people to safely drive to their destinations.
The village of Lake Isabella though doesn’t have a road commission though and has to find someone else to plow their streets for their local residents. That hasn’t been a problem for Village Manager Tim Wolff, who has found the perfect solution.
The Village of Lake Isabella employs Wilcox Excavation to clear the snow off their streets and according to Tim they have been doing business together for close to a decade.
.”They do a great job,” said Tim, “We haven’t got any complaints and have been very happy with the job that they do.”
With the price of Diesel still fairly high, even after the drastic drop in fuel prices, an increase in Wilcox’s fee might sway Tim’s decision to stay with them. Instead, Wilcox lowered their prices from the following year.
“Their prices are based on fuel prices,” said Tim, “this year they went down. Last year we paid $115 per hour and this year we are only paying $90, which is their standard fee.”
Even without a road commission, Lake Isabella manages to make their streets safe for its residents, which is especially important with the snowy start we have had this winter.
“We aren’t going to change businesses anytime soon,” said Tim, “and they haven’t given us a reason to think otherwise.”
Conference Gives New Students First College Experiences
When one signs up for a leadership conference they expect to hear from great speakers and possibly enjoy a couple of nice meals. With Central Michigan University’s Leadership Safari, one can expect those two things and a whole lot more of the unexpected.
Established in 1997, CMU’s Leadership Safari is a guided experience created by residence hall students to help incoming and transfer students learn more about leadership and other leadership opportunities at CMU, according to the Leadership Safari website.
Leadership Safari places students in groups ranging from 10-12 people and assigns them a safari guide. The safari guide is an experienced CMU student who has been trained on facilitation and how to lead small groups.
“The Safari guide is really crucial to the Leadership Safari program, said Dani Hiar, Leadership Safari Coordinator, The guide takes the group through various character building and group building exercises throughout the week of the conference.”
One of the more popular group building exercises is the “trust falls” activity. In this activity the students must stand approximately 5-7 in the air on wooden blocks and fall backwards into the waiting arms of their group. This activity is used to build trust and confidence in the group and usually brings the groups together.
“My teams seem to always become closer to one another after the all the trust activities each year, especially the trust falls”, said Andarius Taylor, Safari guide for the past two years.
Becoming a safari guide is a long and intricate process. One interested must apply by the middle of November. Once past the application process, one must go through a series of trainings and cuts before they are selected. Hiar states that although the process for choosing guides is a long one, it is vital in choosing the group of students who will welcome the new students on campus.
Not only do students take place in team building activities they also have the privilege of hearing different motivational speakers. IN the past students have heard from speakers such as Jud Laipply, Michael Miller and David Coleman. Students are also entertained each night with magicians, comedians and slam poets.
“Hearing David Coleman was amazing, it was really great to hear relationship advice from the original date doctor, said Kayla Carson 2007 Leadership Safari participant.”
Popularity in Leadership Safari was grown over the years. In 1997 the conference began with only 65 participants and in 2007 there were over 1,400 students who took place in the week long conference.
Not only do student have the chance to see great speakers, take part in character building exercises, and see some great entertainment, they also have the chance to move in earlier then all of the other freshmen who chose not to attend the conference according to Hiar
“Leadership Safari is a really fun way to get accustomed to campus, meet great new people and learn about getting involved”, said Miranda Crawford Leadership Safari Staff assistant.
For more information on the Leadership Safari conference you can visit them at cmuleadershipsafari.org.
Established in 1997, CMU’s Leadership Safari is a guided experience created by residence hall students to help incoming and transfer students learn more about leadership and other leadership opportunities at CMU, according to the Leadership Safari website.
Leadership Safari places students in groups ranging from 10-12 people and assigns them a safari guide. The safari guide is an experienced CMU student who has been trained on facilitation and how to lead small groups.
“The Safari guide is really crucial to the Leadership Safari program, said Dani Hiar, Leadership Safari Coordinator, The guide takes the group through various character building and group building exercises throughout the week of the conference.”
One of the more popular group building exercises is the “trust falls” activity. In this activity the students must stand approximately 5-7 in the air on wooden blocks and fall backwards into the waiting arms of their group. This activity is used to build trust and confidence in the group and usually brings the groups together.
“My teams seem to always become closer to one another after the all the trust activities each year, especially the trust falls”, said Andarius Taylor, Safari guide for the past two years.
Becoming a safari guide is a long and intricate process. One interested must apply by the middle of November. Once past the application process, one must go through a series of trainings and cuts before they are selected. Hiar states that although the process for choosing guides is a long one, it is vital in choosing the group of students who will welcome the new students on campus.
Not only do students take place in team building activities they also have the privilege of hearing different motivational speakers. IN the past students have heard from speakers such as Jud Laipply, Michael Miller and David Coleman. Students are also entertained each night with magicians, comedians and slam poets.
“Hearing David Coleman was amazing, it was really great to hear relationship advice from the original date doctor, said Kayla Carson 2007 Leadership Safari participant.”
Popularity in Leadership Safari was grown over the years. In 1997 the conference began with only 65 participants and in 2007 there were over 1,400 students who took place in the week long conference.
Not only do student have the chance to see great speakers, take part in character building exercises, and see some great entertainment, they also have the chance to move in earlier then all of the other freshmen who chose not to attend the conference according to Hiar
“Leadership Safari is a really fun way to get accustomed to campus, meet great new people and learn about getting involved”, said Miranda Crawford Leadership Safari Staff assistant.
For more information on the Leadership Safari conference you can visit them at cmuleadershipsafari.org.
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Eye on Central: Youtube
Students answer the question: How do you use the internet video sharing website, youtube?
Eye on Central: Trevor Turner's Story
read the full story in his own words:
http://tinyurl.com/56zqhf
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Davis receives second chance at her second chance
By: Chelsea Good
An Isabella county woman can finally begin her new life. Darcy Davis has been hired by the Materials Recovery Facility after a re-vote by the Isabella County Board of Commissioners.
Davis, who is completing rehabilitation after a felony drug charge, was originally denied the position after board members voted against hiring her.
News of that vote, along with the false report that Davis had already completed drug court caused an outpouring of arguments and opinions from members of the community.
“There was some misinformation that was affecting people's perception of what had happened,” said County Chairman David Ling.
“Ms. Davis hadn't completed drug court at the time. She had gone through a 90 day rehabilitation program, and had successfully completed phase one of the program.”
The fact that Davis had been charged with a felony involving a controlled substance concerned the majority of the commissioners and led them to vote against hiring her.
“Following the decision, a number of members of the community indicated to various commissioners their concern about the decision.”
Those concerns were a factor in the board’s decision to re-visit the issue. Some of the commissioners who had originally voted no proposed that Davis be hired for a probationary period.
“Normally a new county employ is on probationary contract for six months, during which they may be fired without cause and without access to the grievance system,” said Ling.
“In Ms. Davis' case that period will probably last a year or more.”
The commissioners felt Davis’ probationary period should last until she successfully completes drug court. The final numbers in the re-vote to hire Davis were 6-1. Only Commissioner Christine Alwood voted no.
“I can appreciate why other members of the Board were concerned that the decision to employ her before the completion of the program posed an unacceptable risk,” said Ling.
“I respect their decision and was pleased that they were able to find a proposal that both addressed their concerns and met the community's desire to help this woman get a fresh start.”
An Isabella county woman can finally begin her new life. Darcy Davis has been hired by the Materials Recovery Facility after a re-vote by the Isabella County Board of Commissioners.
Davis, who is completing rehabilitation after a felony drug charge, was originally denied the position after board members voted against hiring her.
News of that vote, along with the false report that Davis had already completed drug court caused an outpouring of arguments and opinions from members of the community.
“There was some misinformation that was affecting people's perception of what had happened,” said County Chairman David Ling.
“Ms. Davis hadn't completed drug court at the time. She had gone through a 90 day rehabilitation program, and had successfully completed phase one of the program.”
The fact that Davis had been charged with a felony involving a controlled substance concerned the majority of the commissioners and led them to vote against hiring her.
“Following the decision, a number of members of the community indicated to various commissioners their concern about the decision.”
Those concerns were a factor in the board’s decision to re-visit the issue. Some of the commissioners who had originally voted no proposed that Davis be hired for a probationary period.
“Normally a new county employ is on probationary contract for six months, during which they may be fired without cause and without access to the grievance system,” said Ling.
“In Ms. Davis' case that period will probably last a year or more.”
The commissioners felt Davis’ probationary period should last until she successfully completes drug court. The final numbers in the re-vote to hire Davis were 6-1. Only Commissioner Christine Alwood voted no.
“I can appreciate why other members of the Board were concerned that the decision to employ her before the completion of the program posed an unacceptable risk,” said Ling.
“I respect their decision and was pleased that they were able to find a proposal that both addressed their concerns and met the community's desire to help this woman get a fresh start.”
Mount Pleasant Public High School Blood Drive
Wednesday, November 26 the Mount Pleasant High School National Honor’s Society hosted a blood drive supporting the American Red Cross. The blood drive was held in the high schools Auxiliary gym.
The NHS is one of the nation's premier organizations established to recognize outstanding high school and middle level students. More than an honor roll, the NHS serves to honor students who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of Scholarship, Leadership, Service, and Character.
NHS members organized all the logistics for the drive. The students ran all of the planning and advertising.
The NHS students were responsible for going out and finding blood donors. The goal of making 70 appointments was exceeded with a total of 80 people signing up to donate blood.
Mount Pleasant High School students 17 and older were allowed to donate blood and accounted for much of the drives success.
They NHS had a total of 65 donors, which met their donation goals.
“Our NHS kids are very organized,” Scott Defrain, National Honor Society advisor and Mount Pleasant High School Physics teacher said. “Any time you meet your goal at an event it is considered a success.”
The American Red Cross was founding in 1881 by visionary leader Clara Barton and is the nation's premier emergency response organization. Some four million people give blood—the gift of life—through the Red Cross, making it the largest supplier of blood and blood products in the United States.
The NHS is one of the nation's premier organizations established to recognize outstanding high school and middle level students. More than an honor roll, the NHS serves to honor students who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of Scholarship, Leadership, Service, and Character.
NHS members organized all the logistics for the drive. The students ran all of the planning and advertising.
The NHS students were responsible for going out and finding blood donors. The goal of making 70 appointments was exceeded with a total of 80 people signing up to donate blood.
Mount Pleasant High School students 17 and older were allowed to donate blood and accounted for much of the drives success.
They NHS had a total of 65 donors, which met their donation goals.
“Our NHS kids are very organized,” Scott Defrain, National Honor Society advisor and Mount Pleasant High School Physics teacher said. “Any time you meet your goal at an event it is considered a success.”
The American Red Cross was founding in 1881 by visionary leader Clara Barton and is the nation's premier emergency response organization. Some four million people give blood—the gift of life—through the Red Cross, making it the largest supplier of blood and blood products in the United States.
Remembering Kathy Rynearson
The impact Clare resident, Kathy Rynearson left on her community was so strong that her hometown dedicated Nov. 22 as “Kathy Rynearson Day.”
Rynearson passed away suddenly from a stroke at the Grand Rapids BioLife center, where she had been training new employees.
Rynearson was a medical supervisor at Mount Pleasant’s BioLife center since its opening in December 2003.
Her friendly demeanor and contagious smile welcomed every person that walked through the doors.
“Kathy would take my pulse manually because I get nervous easily and she always calmed me down,” donor Kristi Kauppi said. “I haven’t donated plasma since I found out what happened.”
The center manager broke the sad news separately to each employee in her office. Rynearson’s death was a shock to all of her co-workers and those that needed to leave work early were allowed to.
Everyone spoke highly about her and said she always went out of her way for others. Close friends described her as “one of a kind” and very dedicated to her job.
Rynearson was referred to as “Big Mama” or “Mom” and had nicknames for everyone she worked with as well. She was known for always making work fun.
Her employees immediately felt something missing without her presence and knew that BioLife would never be the same.
A memorial for Rynearson was displayed at the front desk, which included pictures and a poem.
“Her big smile in that picture showed what a great person she was,” said donor Jillian Kauppi. “The poem was really touching and brought tears to my eyes.”
Rynearson’s smile will never be forgotten and her positive attitude will always be remembered.
Rynearson passed away suddenly from a stroke at the Grand Rapids BioLife center, where she had been training new employees.
Rynearson was a medical supervisor at Mount Pleasant’s BioLife center since its opening in December 2003.
Her friendly demeanor and contagious smile welcomed every person that walked through the doors.
“Kathy would take my pulse manually because I get nervous easily and she always calmed me down,” donor Kristi Kauppi said. “I haven’t donated plasma since I found out what happened.”
The center manager broke the sad news separately to each employee in her office. Rynearson’s death was a shock to all of her co-workers and those that needed to leave work early were allowed to.
Everyone spoke highly about her and said she always went out of her way for others. Close friends described her as “one of a kind” and very dedicated to her job.
Rynearson was referred to as “Big Mama” or “Mom” and had nicknames for everyone she worked with as well. She was known for always making work fun.
Her employees immediately felt something missing without her presence and knew that BioLife would never be the same.
A memorial for Rynearson was displayed at the front desk, which included pictures and a poem.
“Her big smile in that picture showed what a great person she was,” said donor Jillian Kauppi. “The poem was really touching and brought tears to my eyes.”
Rynearson’s smile will never be forgotten and her positive attitude will always be remembered.
Power Outage Raises Concerns about Older CMU Buildings
On Monday November 24th many students were pleased to hear that all classes in Anspach Hall were closed on due to a power outage. The power outage was caused by a faulty transformer that pierced a power line.
With Anspach hall being one of the older buildings on CMU’s campus questions have come up about the electrical systems in other CMU buildings and their sustainability. Leroy Barnes, The Director of Energy & Utilities at Central Energy Facility has said that they will be looking into the systems of the older building.
“ We don’t want this problem to happen again so we will be taking a look at older buildings such as Moore and Pearce hall in the near future, to make sure their systems are up to date”, Barnes said.
Buildings such as Moore and Pearce hall have been on CMU’s campus since the mid-to-late 1960’s but have never had any real problems with any electrical wiring. Barnes however believes that CMU can not take any chances.
“We can’t take the risk of this happening again”, said Barnes “We have to make sure every building is working properly especially during the time the students and faculty are all here.
Although older electrical systems are an area of concern, Barnes made it clear that this was not the main cause of the power outage in Anspach Hall and the faulty transformer was.
“This is a problem we hope we will not have to deal with again”, said Barnes.
The power was restored in Anspach Hall on later that day and all classes and events went on as scheduled on Tuesday November 25th.
With Anspach hall being one of the older buildings on CMU’s campus questions have come up about the electrical systems in other CMU buildings and their sustainability. Leroy Barnes, The Director of Energy & Utilities at Central Energy Facility has said that they will be looking into the systems of the older building.
“ We don’t want this problem to happen again so we will be taking a look at older buildings such as Moore and Pearce hall in the near future, to make sure their systems are up to date”, Barnes said.
Buildings such as Moore and Pearce hall have been on CMU’s campus since the mid-to-late 1960’s but have never had any real problems with any electrical wiring. Barnes however believes that CMU can not take any chances.
“We can’t take the risk of this happening again”, said Barnes “We have to make sure every building is working properly especially during the time the students and faculty are all here.
Although older electrical systems are an area of concern, Barnes made it clear that this was not the main cause of the power outage in Anspach Hall and the faulty transformer was.
“This is a problem we hope we will not have to deal with again”, said Barnes.
The power was restored in Anspach Hall on later that day and all classes and events went on as scheduled on Tuesday November 25th.
Union Township handling the absence of a superintendent
by Jason Antoniewicz
Union Township's decision to work without a superintendent and delegate the office's duties to the supervisor and treasurer is going without a hitch so far.
Newly elected supervisor John Barker has been holding staff meetings previously delegated to the superintendent, and has been getting on the ground floor with the utilities in Union.
"We hope this will be a short term situation," he said. "And by short term, that could mean a matter of a couple of months or longer."
Barker hopes to have a position similar to the superintendent return for handling the administrative details of Union Township's government.
"There's a lot to do," Barker said. "Thousands of transactions take place every month. Those administrative details could and perhaps should be handled by a professional manager."
Barker plans on visiting other townships to assess their governments, and create a system that will meet the needs of Union Township.
"My preferred model, just because of my background, is the township manager model," Barker said.
At the first meeting of the new Board of Trustees, Barker talked about wanting to keep the policy making side of Union separate from the administrative side. A township manager would function like the city manager of Mount Pleasant.
"A lot of townships have superintendents," he said. "A lot fewer have professional township managers. It's a different kind of approach to managing local government."
Barker and the rest of the Board of Trustees start training this week. The township will soon renegotiate its service contract with the Mt. Pleasant Fire Department, as well as begin talks with the county.
"They're all anxious to sit down with us," Barker said. "We have opened our arms to the concept that when we all work together, the taxpayers are better served."
Union Township's decision to work without a superintendent and delegate the office's duties to the supervisor and treasurer is going without a hitch so far.
Newly elected supervisor John Barker has been holding staff meetings previously delegated to the superintendent, and has been getting on the ground floor with the utilities in Union.
"We hope this will be a short term situation," he said. "And by short term, that could mean a matter of a couple of months or longer."
Barker hopes to have a position similar to the superintendent return for handling the administrative details of Union Township's government.
"There's a lot to do," Barker said. "Thousands of transactions take place every month. Those administrative details could and perhaps should be handled by a professional manager."
Barker plans on visiting other townships to assess their governments, and create a system that will meet the needs of Union Township.
"My preferred model, just because of my background, is the township manager model," Barker said.
At the first meeting of the new Board of Trustees, Barker talked about wanting to keep the policy making side of Union separate from the administrative side. A township manager would function like the city manager of Mount Pleasant.
"A lot of townships have superintendents," he said. "A lot fewer have professional township managers. It's a different kind of approach to managing local government."
Barker and the rest of the Board of Trustees start training this week. The township will soon renegotiate its service contract with the Mt. Pleasant Fire Department, as well as begin talks with the county.
"They're all anxious to sit down with us," Barker said. "We have opened our arms to the concept that when we all work together, the taxpayers are better served."
A peaceful Black Friday in Mount Pleasant
Black Friday came and went with no problems in the Mount Pleasant area. You can’t say the same thing around the country.
According to the Daily News website, a Wal-Mart worker died early Friday after an "out-of-control" mob of frenzied shoppers smashed through the Long Island, NY, store's front doors and trampled him, police said.
This was not the case for the stores in Mount Pleasant.
“The stores were not as bad as I thought they would be,” said Brian Hampshire, Bay City. “I was in town for the holidays and thought I would go out and catch some of the sales real early and the lines were long, but no problems in them. Nothing like it has been in the past.”
Some of the stores in town didn’t want to take any chances with problems on this normally crazy shopping day. Target was one of those stores.
Target officials asked the Isabella County Sheriff's Department to have a deputy on hand for crowd control on the busy shopping day, according to The Morning Sun.
Some other shoppers didn’t have as great of an experience.
“The lines were crazy to wait in,” said Jake Sproul, Redford senior. “Too many people trying to get deals. This was my first time going out shopping for Black Friday and will probably never do it again.”
The longer lines were a good thing for local stores. Many were worried with the economy being so bad that Black Friday would not turn out as expected.
“It was good to see people out shopping and spending money,” Hampshire said. “The businesses needed the support and it was a great show of support by the people in Mount Pleasant.”
According to the Daily News website, a Wal-Mart worker died early Friday after an "out-of-control" mob of frenzied shoppers smashed through the Long Island, NY, store's front doors and trampled him, police said.
This was not the case for the stores in Mount Pleasant.
“The stores were not as bad as I thought they would be,” said Brian Hampshire, Bay City. “I was in town for the holidays and thought I would go out and catch some of the sales real early and the lines were long, but no problems in them. Nothing like it has been in the past.”
Some of the stores in town didn’t want to take any chances with problems on this normally crazy shopping day. Target was one of those stores.
Target officials asked the Isabella County Sheriff's Department to have a deputy on hand for crowd control on the busy shopping day, according to The Morning Sun.
Some other shoppers didn’t have as great of an experience.
“The lines were crazy to wait in,” said Jake Sproul, Redford senior. “Too many people trying to get deals. This was my first time going out shopping for Black Friday and will probably never do it again.”
The longer lines were a good thing for local stores. Many were worried with the economy being so bad that Black Friday would not turn out as expected.
“It was good to see people out shopping and spending money,” Hampshire said. “The businesses needed the support and it was a great show of support by the people in Mount Pleasant.”
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
A large crowd gathered Wednesday night to watch a variety of acts perform at the annual Beal City Schools Talent Show.
The 2008 Talent Show was held in the small gym at Beal City High School and began at 7 p.m. The show lasted a little more than an hour and guests were entertained with singing, dancing and even some stand-up comedy.
The audience was treated to a special bonus in the lobby when they were greeted by Beal City students’ artwork proudly displayed.
Though many acts turned up and wowed the crowd, only three were awarded the top spots.
There were two second place finishes. Kelsi Karcher's rendition of "Girls Lie Too" by Teri Clark and the trio of Alisha Chamberlin, who sang beautifully, and Karly Schafer and Amy Finnerty, who performed an interpretive dance they choreographed, earned there places at the top.
The 2008 Talent Show was held in the small gym at Beal City High School and began at 7 p.m. The show lasted a little more than an hour and guests were entertained with singing, dancing and even some stand-up comedy.
The audience was treated to a special bonus in the lobby when they were greeted by Beal City students’ artwork proudly displayed.
Though many acts turned up and wowed the crowd, only three were awarded the top spots.
There were two second place finishes. Kelsi Karcher's rendition of "Girls Lie Too" by Teri Clark and the trio of Alisha Chamberlin, who sang beautifully, and Karly Schafer and Amy Finnerty, who performed an interpretive dance they choreographed, earned there places at the top.
The first place prize went to McBride for her comedic act, "Finding Talent."
These talented young students will be moving on to represent Beal City High School in the Isabella County Talent Show, sponsored by The Morey Foundation, at the Broadway Theatre in Mt. Pleasant on Feb. 18th.
The Faux Fur Shift
In the 1960’s owning a Mink fur coat was the dream of every American housewife. However, as the years pass more and more designers are ditching real fur and using faux fur in their couture lines. As more and more designers and celebrities make the switch from real to faux fur, it has become widely accepted change.
Some famous fur foes include Christy Turlington, Dennis Rodman, Ellen Degeneres, Marc Bouwer, Martha Stewart and many others.
“People dress based on their role models, the people they see on TV.” Nyesha Butler a Detroit Freshman said, “If someone’s style icon chooses real or faux fur, then the idolizer is more likely to do the same.”
Real fur has lost its popularity for numerous reasons from the environmental effects to the mere high cost. However, the most frequent reason people forgo fur is a result of the cruelty involved in order to attain an animal skin.
“I would never wear real fur. The only thing that needs real fur is the animal that was born with it. I don’t care what the fashion trends are, I can wear faux fur and look twice as good as someone who has blood on their hands,” said Clarkston Senior Kayla Pappas.
The faux fur transition is being made in big cities known for fashion. The city of Mount Pleasant however is not known for making a contribution to the world of fashion.
“I think people are going to buy what they like. If they like the real stuff, they’re going to get it regardless of where they live.” Laura Czupinski a Frasier Freshman said.
Although the faux fur transition seems to be sweeping the country, Mount Pleasant and even Michigan, a state on the low end of the fashion totem pole, seem to be lagging behind.
Some famous fur foes include Christy Turlington, Dennis Rodman, Ellen Degeneres, Marc Bouwer, Martha Stewart and many others.
“People dress based on their role models, the people they see on TV.” Nyesha Butler a Detroit Freshman said, “If someone’s style icon chooses real or faux fur, then the idolizer is more likely to do the same.”
Real fur has lost its popularity for numerous reasons from the environmental effects to the mere high cost. However, the most frequent reason people forgo fur is a result of the cruelty involved in order to attain an animal skin.
“I would never wear real fur. The only thing that needs real fur is the animal that was born with it. I don’t care what the fashion trends are, I can wear faux fur and look twice as good as someone who has blood on their hands,” said Clarkston Senior Kayla Pappas.
The faux fur transition is being made in big cities known for fashion. The city of Mount Pleasant however is not known for making a contribution to the world of fashion.
“I think people are going to buy what they like. If they like the real stuff, they’re going to get it regardless of where they live.” Laura Czupinski a Frasier Freshman said.
Although the faux fur transition seems to be sweeping the country, Mount Pleasant and even Michigan, a state on the low end of the fashion totem pole, seem to be lagging behind.
Monday, December 1, 2008
Thanksgiving without the turkey
Not all American households celebrate Thanksgiving with a turkey, but most still do. An estimated 49 million turkeys were raised this year in Minnesota, the leading state in turkey production, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
With raising concerns of health and weight in America, it is interesting to see that 144,086 organic turkeys were raised as of 2005. This still doesn’t get in the way of a traditional turkey dinner on thanksgiving for most families.
CMU student Sara Bloomberg went home for a great traditional thanksgiving dinner including turkey.
“Thanksgiving is not only a great break from school before finals, I also enjoy yummy food with family and friends,” said Bloomberg.
Cranberries are also a great American side dish that is widely consumed at Thanksgiving. Cranberry production in the U.S. was up five percent since 2007 to 689 million pounds in 2008.
“Homemade cranberry dishes are the best,” said Bloomberg. “This year my grandmother made brandy cranberries and my aunt made a cranberry relish.”
A healthy diet does concern some people and have an affect on Thanksgiving. For example, people with allergies may need to make changes to the traditional meal.
Another factor involved in planning the Thanksgiving dinner is an individual’s values or religion. Thanksgiving doesn’t need a turkey and Ann Marie LaFlamme believes your dinner is better off without it.
“My family helps me in many ways to comply to my vegan choices,” said LaFlamme.
“ My mother makes me healthy and delicious stuffing, yams and my grandmother brought me green bean casserole for dinner,” said LaFlamme.
“Thanksgiving dinner is a great reminder of the reason we celebrate Thanksgiving,” said Bloomberg. “It reminds me of how thankful I am to spend time with my friends and family.”
With raising concerns of health and weight in America, it is interesting to see that 144,086 organic turkeys were raised as of 2005. This still doesn’t get in the way of a traditional turkey dinner on thanksgiving for most families.
CMU student Sara Bloomberg went home for a great traditional thanksgiving dinner including turkey.
“Thanksgiving is not only a great break from school before finals, I also enjoy yummy food with family and friends,” said Bloomberg.
Cranberries are also a great American side dish that is widely consumed at Thanksgiving. Cranberry production in the U.S. was up five percent since 2007 to 689 million pounds in 2008.
“Homemade cranberry dishes are the best,” said Bloomberg. “This year my grandmother made brandy cranberries and my aunt made a cranberry relish.”
A healthy diet does concern some people and have an affect on Thanksgiving. For example, people with allergies may need to make changes to the traditional meal.
Another factor involved in planning the Thanksgiving dinner is an individual’s values or religion. Thanksgiving doesn’t need a turkey and Ann Marie LaFlamme believes your dinner is better off without it.
“My family helps me in many ways to comply to my vegan choices,” said LaFlamme.
“ My mother makes me healthy and delicious stuffing, yams and my grandmother brought me green bean casserole for dinner,” said LaFlamme.
“Thanksgiving dinner is a great reminder of the reason we celebrate Thanksgiving,” said Bloomberg. “It reminds me of how thankful I am to spend time with my friends and family.”
Fans not present for Wednesday nights upset
Last Wednesday CMU faced Ball State in a close football game, but not all students made an appearance at the game.
For those who didn’t make it to the game, there were many reasons involved.
“I really wanted to support the team,” said senior Mary Ruttman. “But I couldn’t make it due to having a class late Wednesday evening.”
With the semester coming to an end, this is the time for everyone to buckle down and get some work done.
“Even though I really wanted to make it to the game, I couldn’t miss my class, because it is imperative that I be there,” said Ruttman.
Final exams are closing in, but that wasn’t the only reason for absence at the game.
“I would have gone to the game if it weren’t for my class,” said Ruttman. “The cold doesn’t bother me and wouldn't stop me from supporting the team.”
“However, I did have friends that said they wanted to go, but wouldn’t venture out into the cold,” said Ruttman.
Late Wednesday night saw terrible weather for attendees of the game. It was cold, wet and snowing. The weather, however, did not stop those over-enthused fans that attend every game with their tops off and bodies painted.
The reasons for missing Wednesday’s upset don’t stop there.
Another popular excuse was money. Usually to attend a football game you tailgate first with a beverage of choice, then winter the game for something warmer like hot chocolate or a hot dog to warm you up.
All of these have a certain cost and with the semester coming to the ends, so does financial aid.
Since the game was being broadcasted on ESPN 2, it was much easier and cheaper to just view the game from home.
For those who didn’t make it to the game, there were many reasons involved.
“I really wanted to support the team,” said senior Mary Ruttman. “But I couldn’t make it due to having a class late Wednesday evening.”
With the semester coming to an end, this is the time for everyone to buckle down and get some work done.
“Even though I really wanted to make it to the game, I couldn’t miss my class, because it is imperative that I be there,” said Ruttman.
Final exams are closing in, but that wasn’t the only reason for absence at the game.
“I would have gone to the game if it weren’t for my class,” said Ruttman. “The cold doesn’t bother me and wouldn't stop me from supporting the team.”
“However, I did have friends that said they wanted to go, but wouldn’t venture out into the cold,” said Ruttman.
Late Wednesday night saw terrible weather for attendees of the game. It was cold, wet and snowing. The weather, however, did not stop those over-enthused fans that attend every game with their tops off and bodies painted.
The reasons for missing Wednesday’s upset don’t stop there.
Another popular excuse was money. Usually to attend a football game you tailgate first with a beverage of choice, then winter the game for something warmer like hot chocolate or a hot dog to warm you up.
All of these have a certain cost and with the semester coming to the ends, so does financial aid.
Since the game was being broadcasted on ESPN 2, it was much easier and cheaper to just view the game from home.
Dickens Christmas a fun two days
Once again downtown Mount Pleasant will be full of holiday fun and Christmas cheer.
For more than 20 years the Dickens Christmas has been a time for fun in downtown Mount Pleasant.
The two day event will kick off Friday night. There will be everything from familiar Christmas characters wandering the downtown streets to horse drawn carriage rides.
There will be fun the little ones too, with Santa’s workshop opening Friday night at 5 p.m.
Downtown resident, Chase Dicken expects the weekend to be a great family fun weekend for the whole family.
Dicken who has been to the festival for the past few years says, “It was a lot more fun than I expected the first time I went, and the great downtown atmosphere keeps drawing me back.”
The fun and events will continue on Saturday with a run put on by Mount Pleasant striders.
After the run there will also be a pancake breakfast at the Sacred Heart Middle School from 8 a.m. to noon.
The downtown will have several other events going on throughout the day, everything from children’s games to quilt raffles and concerts.
Chase Berry, a Brass Café employee expects it will be a busy weekend for the Brass.
“I know there are sleigh rides that you can sign up for at the Brass and I look forward to it being a busy weekend.”
For more information go to www.downtownmtpleasant.com.
For more than 20 years the Dickens Christmas has been a time for fun in downtown Mount Pleasant.
The two day event will kick off Friday night. There will be everything from familiar Christmas characters wandering the downtown streets to horse drawn carriage rides.
There will be fun the little ones too, with Santa’s workshop opening Friday night at 5 p.m.
Downtown resident, Chase Dicken expects the weekend to be a great family fun weekend for the whole family.
Dicken who has been to the festival for the past few years says, “It was a lot more fun than I expected the first time I went, and the great downtown atmosphere keeps drawing me back.”
The fun and events will continue on Saturday with a run put on by Mount Pleasant striders.
After the run there will also be a pancake breakfast at the Sacred Heart Middle School from 8 a.m. to noon.
The downtown will have several other events going on throughout the day, everything from children’s games to quilt raffles and concerts.
Chase Berry, a Brass Café employee expects it will be a busy weekend for the Brass.
“I know there are sleigh rides that you can sign up for at the Brass and I look forward to it being a busy weekend.”
For more information go to www.downtownmtpleasant.com.
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