A voice for the students of Mount Wachusett Community College

FEBRUARY 3, 2016 VOLUME 10, ISSUE 5 8 PAGES Ring in the New By President Daniel M. Asquino provement, but equally impres- events commemorating Black sive, is the transformation taking History Month and Women’s We ring in the new year at place inside the classroom walls. Mount Wachusett Community History Month. New student support services, College not with the customary The Center for Civic Learning new faculty and staff, new trans- noisemakers of bells and horns, and Community Engagement fer agreements, and new civic but with drills, hammers and continued on page 2>>> engagement initiatives will en- saws as construction continues hance our existing resources on our Gardner campus. to help students build up their Your patience as you make academic and career skills in your way to classrooms and of- preparation for the workforce or fices during the modernization of our 45-year-old facility is a bachelor’s degree. greatly appreciated. In the com- The semester ahead provides ing months, renovations to our opportunities to help students Courtesy photo / John Blombach Framework for Success Advising Center, Commons build up their résumés as well Area, Theatre at the Mount, and as increase understanding on na- main entrance will be unveiled, tional issues, including race, in- Discover your followed later this year by the come inequality, and citizenship. opening of our new science and Continuing programs through Inner Contractor technology building. the office of Student Life include Less obvious than these out- alternative spring break with By John Blombach wards signs of growth and im- Habitat for Humanity, the Lead- ership for Life workshop series, Want to learn some marketable tating and preserving homes. President Asquino skills? Snatch up the tool apron. Advocating for fair and just Grab a hammer, a square and a housing policies; and by pro- level. Let’s build something and viding training and access to re- Resources for ESL Students change somebody’s life. Volun- sources to help families improve just like her. “You learn a lot lack patience and teachers have teerism is alive and well at Habi- their shelter conditions. By Alexandra Rodriguez tat for Humanity. Discover your Habitat for Humanity was about other countries and make to be very patient with them. Mount Wachusett Community inner contractor! founded on the conviction that friends,” said Bruny. Madhu expresses how students College, a place where students The college has a partnership every man, woman and child In the other hand, Juliana Lu- need to practice outside of class from all over the world can learn with several community organi- should have a simple, durable cena, also an ESL student at the because the college is small and and grow with the help of ESL zations to provide service learn- place to live in dignity and MWCC Leominster campus, there are not many activities. Courses, Clubs and Student sup- ing experience for students. I’ve safety, and that decent shelter in came from Brazil and has re- TRIO Student Support Ser- port services. just completed a stint with Habi- decent communities should be a sided in Clinton for over a year. vices that assist students from The Language Café, home tat for Humanity. It has been matter of conscience and action She has a 1 years old son and first generation, low-income for ESL students of MWCC has a life changing experience for for all. she has come to the U.S with backgrounds, and students with brought life to students from all me as well as those underprivi- Habitat for Humanity NCM the purpose to learn English. Lu- disabilities to graduate and over the world to interact and leged families who will receive offers a hand up, not a hand cena sees herself speaking very transfer, is a federally funded have fun, with the help of Jose the benefit of the homes we are out to hard-working, low-in- clear and correct English. She program, one of roughly 1,900 Mangual, leader ambassador building. come families seeking afford- explained that it is very differ- TRIO programs throughout the of Language Café and Profes- Habitat has experience in able homeownership. Simple, ent speaking street English and United States. TRIO programs sor Madhu Sharma who feels home building. They have built decent, affordable homes are speaking correct English, using grew out of our nation’s com- empathy for her ESL students. over 300,000 homes around the built or rehabbed in partnership the right words and grammar, mitment to the ideal of providing The Language Café, English as globe in the last 30 years. They with families, donors and volun- but thanks to Language Café, she equal access to higher education a Second Language club, offered have developed more real estate teers who share our vision of a will be able to do so. to all Americans, regardless of for beginners in the English Lan- than Donald Trump. Simple, de- world where everyone has a de- Maduh Sharma, who’s been their backgrounds or economic guage is a place for students all cent, affordable housing is the teaching at the Mount for over circumstances. cent place to live. over the world practice conver- most basic human requirement 25 years, has a master’s degree According to Director, Gaurav What are habitat houses like? sational English at an informal for life. Habitat and its spon- in Intercultural education and a Khanna, the Visions Program Simple, decent and affordable. setting. It takes place six to sors offer alternative solutions to Doctorate in Foreign Languages, at the Mount emphasizes how Habitat houses are modestly seven times per semester at noon this ever growing need for basic expresses how her experience the TRIO program doesn’t spe- sized. They are large enough for in room 104 of the Leominster shelter. from learning languages and the cifically focus on ESL students the homeowner family’s needs, Campus. Habitat for Humanity builds professional preparation gives but works with students who but small enough to keep con- Darrege Marie Dorval Bruny, houses around the world accord- her an advantage for being a bet- are first generation, with - lim struction and maintenance costs a 23 year old Haitian lady, who ing to the same guiding prin- ter teacher. ited income background and to a minimum. is in the Intermediate level of ciples: A world where everyone “I became more sensitive with students with disabilities of any According to Habitat.org, the ESL Course at the Leomin- has a decent place to live. Habitat students,” expressed Sharma, kind. According to Khanna, just Habitat houses in the United ster Campus and has resided in for Humanity is part of a global, with her own experience of by virtue of the population that States are typically built using Massachusetts for a year and nonprofit housing organization learning Spanish as a foreign wood frame construction and 5 months, came to the Mount continued on page 2>>> operated on Christian principles language when she lived in home designs reflect the local to study level two of the ESL that seeks to put God’s love into Mexico, preparing her to teach climate and culture. Efficient course. She said that she has action by building homes, com- English as a second language to building methods and modest learned the most because they Inside this issue: munities and hope. Spanish speaking students. house sizes make the homes af- make you speak up and interact Habitat for Humanity is dedi- The most difficult part of Opinions...... 2 fordable. Habitat houses may with each other. cated to eliminating substandard teaching English as a second have no more than 1,050 square The Language Café is a place Reviews...... 6 housing locally and worldwide language according to Madhu, where Bruny shares her ideas through constructing, rehabili- continued on page 2>>> is patience! Very often, students Student Calendar...... 8 and opinions with other lady’s www.mountobserver.com 2 Observeropinion February 3, 2016

its second year of program- ciety, with an emphasis on pro- Discover your Inner Contractor Ring in the New ming with “Myths, Monsters, fessionals working in the field of >>>continued from page 1 >>>continued from page 1 and Modern Science: Franken- healthcare. stein’s Legacy,” an in-depth With so much available in the feet of living space for a three vide decent, affordable shelter to is the go-to place for hands-on look at Mary Shelley’s 1818 months ahead, it’s important to bedroom home. families in need. experience through internships, novel Frankenstein, and its rel- keep sight of the main goals and Habitat for Humanity is a If you wish to make a differ- volunteerism and service learn- evance in today’s world. Free reasons you are pursuing a col- community-funded organization ence but don’t want to don the ing. Among the center’s upcom- events will take place on the lege education. If you encounter — a community that includes work boots, come work in the ing offerings is a not-to-miss Gardner campus and in the com- obstacles that seem insurmount- our Habitat homebuyers. The Re-Store or office. presentation on March 25 by munity at public libraries and able, I urge you to tap into the work of Habitat for Humanity Plan your Spring Break now; Harvard political scientist and other venues, funded through a many resources that are avail- would not be possible without no experience necessary, on the best-selling author Robert D. grant from the NEH to deepen able to you on campus, includ- the unwavering support of our job training. Learn all the ins Putnam, through our involve- and sustain quality humanities ing free tutoring, counseling and generous corporate sponsors, and outs of building and rehab- ment with the national “Citi- programming and curriculum advising, scholarships and men- local business and volunteers. bing homes. Find your inner ce- zenship Under Siege” program throughout North Central Mas- toring. Most are the brands you know. lebrity! Maybe you will be the sponsored by the American As- sachusetts. We’re here to help you suc- Our corporate partners work next star on Reality TV’s Flip or sociation of Colleges & Uni- The Division of Access and ceed, and are glad you are with hand-in-hand with us to pro- Flop! versities and The Democracy Transition is launching a Tea us during this exciting phase Commitment, and the National Time Speaker Series that will in Mount Wachusett’s history, Endowment for the Humanities kick off on February 29 with a which in turn, becomes part of Resources for ESL Students (NEH). Men of Color panel presenta- your own story of growth and >>>continued from page 1 In February, the MWCC tion exploring the journey and development. Humanities Project continues obstacles of men of color in so- they work with have an overlap are limitations for students from of students who come with ESL ESL backgrounds. Students are backgrounds, and tend to be first required to be U.S citizens, the generation students and occa- program is limited to 420 stu- sionally limited income as well. dents a year, and most of the ESL Prison Rehabilitation and Education “So, while we don’t have a classes tend to take place primar- Should prison inmates get grants to specific focus on students from ily at the Leominster Campus, a ESL background, those students campus that unfortunately is not pay for their education? are certainly eligible to be part of covered by the program but of- By Paul Crowley the program,” stated Khanna. fers service by the Gardner and Prisoners. Inmates. Convicts. If prisoners are released and or compulsion. But not all pris- According to Khanna there Devens campus. The incarcerated. They break get jobs, their chances to fol- oners are so committed. Most the law and we put them in jail low a lawful existence are high. of them are not 100% convicts. to punish them and to deter other If they are released and cannot They have other parts of their people from making the same find work – chances are they lives such as being a parent, mistake. We also seek to reha- will return to a life of crime, re- a son or daughter. They were bilitate them. arrest and imprisonment. It is teachers, carpenters, musicians, We incarcerate 25% of the in our best interest to improve football heroes, veterans, etc. world’s prisoners. One and a the chance for employment of We classify them as convicts and half million people were in state released convicts. But our lo- make their rehabilitation almost or federal jail in 2014. 93% of cal prison in Gardner is offering impossible. They cannot get a these people will return to our few if any education and training driver’s license for up to 5 years. communities. We certainly pun- programs for its 1000 inmates. Most employers are reluctant to ish them – especially since the Once ex-cons are re-arrested hire convicts out of bias or fear, get tough days of the 1990’s. It because they cannot effectively or because the released inmates is hard to measure a deterrence start a new life, the cost of jus- have no current marketable strategy, but since our prisons tice begins to accumulate. Pre- skills. are swollen with inmates, maybe trial lockup, trials, transporta- According to the Rand study, we do not deter enough. But tion, incarceration, health care, rehabilitative studying and train- why bother to spend the money cost of appeals, etc. If an inmate ing, because it makes released Courtesy photo / Pickens County offers to rehabilitate them? can stay out of jail after release, prisoners more valuable, de- flickr.com/Inmate_Sasha_#191275 GED opportunities those costs are not incurred. So creases recidivism (return to jail) for their inmates. rehabilitation can lower our fu- by 13% of convicts released. ture tax burden. In fact, a recent That is a drop in future crime and THE MOUNT OBSERVER Adviser: *First issue is Rand Corporation study showed justice cost that will positively VOLUME 10, ISSUE 5, February 3, 2016 Susan Goldstein FREE; addi- that if we spend one dollar on ed- impact the budgets of over- Editor in Chief: tional copies ucating prisoners, it saves seven stretched state prisons - saving John Mossey Address: 50 cents dollars in future justice costs. millions. Proposals at the fed- Room 239, MWCC, If a released inmate chooses to eral level to provide incentives News Editor: 444 Green St., not commit crime, then the com- for employers to hire released John Blombach Gardner, MA 01440 munity is safer. If they become inmates can also help. better educated, their level of This reporter and Susan Arts and Entertainment Editor: Telephone/E-Mail/Website: violence while in prison will be Tordella, director of End Mass Jason Greenough 978.630.9260 lower – improving safety for the Incarceration Together, EMIT [email protected] prison staff. Web Site , a Unitarian Universal- Profile Editor: www.mountobserver.com An employed ex-convict pays ist volunteer task force to reform Nathan Morris taxes, builds a life, and contrib- the Commonwealth’s justice and The Observer reserves the right to edit and con- utes to the community. correctional systems, met with Assistant Editors: dense all submissions. The MWCC Observer is a But education takes money. It State Senator Jennifer Flanagan Stevie Labelle member of the College Media Advisers, Inc. takes resources. Diverting mon- to discuss education and other Andrew Hoenig ey to convicts when law abiding issues. The Senator is a strong Printer: citizens have needs is an idea that advocate for mental health in- Graphic Designer: Athol Daily News a politician would have difficulty cluding inmates and wishes for Thomas Hill Jr. championing. Felons lose their a stronger participation by pris- [email protected] Mount Observer Advertising Policy: right to vote and since they can- oners in mental health programs. The Mount Observer will reject any ad that is not vote, they have no political She also believes that social is- Contributors: libelous, obscene, violates any laws or encour- power. That does not mean they sues and basic educational im- Cassandra Marino Yaritza Miranda ages discrimination against any idividual or are neglected, but it does mean provements are necessary to re- Alexandra Rodriguez Paul Crowley group on the basis of race, sex, age, color, that their ability to fight for their verse crime. Senator Flanagan Chelsea Garrity creed, religion, sexual orientation, national rights is compromised is strongly in favor of mandatory Patrick J. Miller origin, or disability. The Observer reserves the There are certainly some cur- right to edit or reject any ad copy at any time. rent convicts that will always continued on page 5>>> peruse a life of crime by choice www.mountobserver.com February 3, 2016 Observernews 3 The Garrison Center By Yaritza Miranda working as a lifeguard in War- For those of you that don’t ucation from University of New ren, MA back in 2000. Her body know what the Garrison Center England in Biddeford, ME. She was found 3 years later after is, it’s a preschool program for also taught in schools of South the largest search in the history students and teachers to tend to America and is bilingual. This of the state. The Murderer was their classes and do their labs for inspired her to come to the U.S never found. As for her parents, the Early Childcare Major. and teach here. they visit the center to this day. Students are able to have their Provost works closely with Provost is very supported of children attend the center while students and teachers with obser- the Molly Bish Room. She said they attend class themselves at vations and special educational that it’s the spirit of Molly that MWCC. The center is also open events. This is where the Molly is felt in that room. A strong to the public. Children must be Bish Institute comes into play. dedication that is being brought 2.9 – 5 years of age to attend. The Molly Bish Institute has upon by Molly. She thinks that Maureen Provost is an As- been put in place of the Stephen the safety and education of sociate Professor, and the Liai- M. Brewer Conference Room in young children is very important son at the Garrison Center. She the Garrison Center, in support and that’s why she wants to be has worked at the center for 10 of the Molly Bish Institute for as much involved as possible. years and has been at the col- Child Health and Safety, the es- Maureen and the rest of the staff lege for 20 years. She has been tablishment of the Amber Alert, at the center do an Art Show for an adjunct faculty member for the official designation of the children to donate money for the her first 10 years at MWCC. She Missing Children’s Day and by Molly Bish Institute for Safety. has an educational background offering his consistent and en- They talk about safety for chil- of Bachelor of Arts, Elementary, during support for stronger sex dren and finger printing along with an art expo. This will be the and Early Childcare, Fine Arts offender laws in Massachusetts. th at Trinity College in Burlington, Molly Bish was a 16 year 10 Anniversary of the Art Show VT and Master of Science in Ed- old girl who disappeared while in April 2016. Courtesy photo / Yarizta Miranda Mural done by Maureen Provost and staff. SGA at MWCC By Andrew Hoenig Gardner, Mass. - The Student and its impact in students’ lives. “We handle relations between helps students at Thanksgiving. take on what she thinks can be Government Association (SGA) “Honestly, as the SGA presi- the staff faculty and students, sort We do it annually. It helps pro- done now to help better inform at the Mount is an elected group dent, I am not shocked that of like liaisons,” said Teague. vide food to those with housing, the students while she is in of- of students who represent the most students don’t know what DeCosta echoed her saying, food, and security needs.” fice, “As the student government students’ interests to the col- the SGA actually does for the “SGA is the voice for the stu- Currently the SGA is also in- president, it saddens me to know lege’s administration. student population. Before be- dent body population. A lot of volved with many clubs/organi- that most students have no idea But in a recent survey done coming involved myself, I was students do not feel comfortable zations on campus. what we do or that most students on campus regarding the general a little unsure of what SGA did, approaching a professor or the “I believe we have a total of have no idea what we do or knowledge and impact of the however, I knew a little bit,” said dean of students with an issue 29 clubs and organizations on what clubs and organizations are SGA, a theme seemed to appear. DeCosta. that they may have that has ris- campus, and as a requirement available on campus to become Many of the students an- Cathy Teague who was the en on campus. This where SGA for the clubs and organizations involved. It is a proven statistic swered these three words on at former president of the SGA comes into play. We are the li- to receive allocated funds from that students that are involved on least one of three questions, “I from the Fall 2014 semester until aisons between the students and SGA and the school, they are campus generally have a higher don’t know”. In fact, 90% of the the end of May 2015, also seems faculty bringing any and all con- required to raise 30% of the al- GPA and a higher success rate students who participated in the to echo DeCosta in her under- cerns to the meetings….” located funds issued to them for throughout their college experi- survey had little to no knowl- standing of how much students “The SGA is bridging the the fiscal school year, as well as ence. One way that I feel this can edge on what the SGA does for actually know about the SGA communications gap,” said complete 2 community service be resolved is by having a great- students and the school, what and gave a reason as to why this Teague. Aside from being the projects,” said DeCosta. er presence of SGA members clubs it has organized on cam- may be. intermediary between students So with the results of the sur- at the SGA Booth in the center pus, and what impact it has on “The students come to school, and faculty, both Teague and De- vey showing the students don’t highway heading towards the the students themselves directly. go to classes, and leave. There’s Costa pointed out other purposes really know what the SGA is cafeteria every day of the week, The remaining 10% had a not that sense of community,” the SGA has. doing, how can the SGA get the including nights.” background of being, in some said Teague. “The SGA helps to plan cam- word out more and get the stu- DeCosta made this final prom- way shape, or form involved The overall impact of the SGA pus activities. I realize that most dents more involved and knowl- ise to better inform students of with the SGA. in student life on campus can be of the students do not realize edgeable? the SGA and its purpose; she What this survey did was felt when any major issues or how big of an impact the SGA Teague says that, “Telling stu- wants students to know what it show how much knowledge concerns come up. does have on the student body, dents of their personal experi- is the SGA is doing and why, and most students have about the “As SGA members and spe- however a lot of the planning ences, spending time with them claims, “This is definitely my fo- SGA at MWCC. cifically me as president, I rep- and execution of campus activi- at the SGA booth, and talking cus for next semester and hope- These results come as no sur- resent the voices of the student ties, orientation and presence on with them at orientation,” are fully our presence will be well prise to Carrie DeCosta, cur- body,” said DeCosta. “Any ma- campus is just a portion of what just a few ways to get the stu- known and students will have a rent president of the SGA at the jor issues or concerns can be we do as SGA members,” said dents to understand and know better understanding of what we Mount, since the start of the fall brought to me and I can filter DeCosta. just what it is the SGA does for do to help the student body and 2015 semester. In fact before them up through the appropriate Another big thing that Teague them at their school. population.” taking office, she says she too connections to see what we can mentioned the SGA does is the DeCosta, being the current had little knowledge of the SGA do to get things resolved.” food drive for Thanksgiving, “It SGA president, also gave her Work for us! The Observer is currently looking for reporters, poets, photographers, artists, graphic designers and critics. All interested should speak with the Editor in room 239 or email [email protected]. www.mountobserver.com 4 Observeropinion February 3, 2016 Trump on Voting Culture at Muslims MWCC By: Stevie LaBelle Stop, Halt, Does Mount Wachusett Com- the filled out registration cards. munity College breed an en- They do this in order to offset the Cease and gaged atmosphere in regards to cost to students. Desist – An elections and informed voter – Why is the campus so de- culture? The overall consensus tached from elections? There is American is no, it does not. a “politics don’t affect me” men- “The upcoming presiden- tality often times when students Decision tial election is invisible,” com- are unaware of just how much Courtesy photo / Donald Trump at the Worcester mented Professor Reed Hillman, their own lives truly are affected By Andrew Hoenig Cassandra Marino Rally, December 2015. a Criminal Justice and Politics by whom is the elected officials professor as well as former Rep- at the time. MWCC – Donald Trump is a But this has become such a In a recent statement made by resentative for the House. In order to solve this issue, current presidential candidate pressing issue because a few Trump, he said, “Without look- Only months away from the there has to be a way to push stu- who does not mince words. His have decided to take action in ing at the various polling data, primaries for both Massachu- dents to become more aware and recent public outcries of halt- the form of killing. Terrorist at- it is obvious to anybody the ha- setts and New Hampshire, and more involved. Nathan Oakes ing Muslims from coming into tacks in the East have become tred is beyond comprehension. yet there is no signs that a presi- has thoughts on how to accom- America have been heard loud more prevalent, taking place on Where this hatred comes from dential election is coming. Hill- plish this: a mandatory single and clear by the general public. larger stages like the most recent and why we will have to deter- man believes that this is the most day graded informative seminar. A recent campaign press re- attacks in France and Germany. mine.” crucial time in the election peri- He feels this would be a concrete lease says that “Trump is calling Most have assumed that Mus- It’s fear and concern versus od. He feels that if more people method to enlighten students for a cease of all Muslims enter- lims are the majority group of having an unclear conscience would get involved in this stage, about politics, how they could ing the U.S. until representatives these terrorists and so because and lack of morality. before the candidates for each get involved, and why they can figure out what is going on.” of this it makes the issue harder Points can be made for party are chosen, then it would should get involved. The recent activities of vio- to debate and also even harder Trump’s call to action, but points breed better candidates for our Hillman has hopes that as lence in the Eastern Hemisphere to find a solid conclusion about can also be made against it. Con- country’s presidency. January and February approach have some people wondering what to do. flicting reports say that Muslims If citizens were more involved there will a rise in excitement if maybe that is exactly what Fear drives humanity to do are NOT responsible for most in researching candidates and levels for the upcoming election. should be done. It seems now things outside of the norm so terrorist attacks while others say becoming thoroughly educated He hopes if involvement does that one solution that has come that they may return to that norm otherwise. about stances on critical issues, begin that it is balanced so that forth from Trump’s comments is or comfort state. However when One thing is for sure though. rather than just what is viewed all sides are equally represented. the possibility of having a reli- fear conflicts with morality then The end result of how this crisis on commercials, and heard on ra- He strongly believes “an educat- gious test done to enter the U.S. the issue becomes murkier and a will be handled is clearly up to dio ads, than they could be more ed voter is a better voter.” Hope- In a recent survey done on solution is unclear. the American people. The next confident in who they are voting fully, students will take it upon campus, students who partici- Howard also said, “It’s tough Presidential election is coming for. “People follow the wave themselves to become more edu- pated seemed to agree. A ma- because there should be zero ter- up in November of this year and and are influenced by society,” cated and take advantage of the jority responded with a similar rorists in our country right now. America has to decide, in turn stated Nathan Oakes, a Criminal resources present at Mount Wa- response; that is that you don’t They are even faking passports.” deciding how this current dilem- Justice major at the Mount. chusett Community College. really know how these Muslims Placing a ban on Muslims ma is going to be dealt with. Mount Wachusett Community are going to behave, or what could put a very sudden halt to America is a democracy that College does take steps to make their attitude will be. terrorist activity in our U.S. bor- has to make tough choices. becoming a registered voter more One current student enrolled ders, but there could be other These choices keep the country accessible for their students. The in her second semester at the consequences that come with it, intact so that it can remain one of Student Government Associa- Mount, Makaylah Howard, spe- like the potential rage of Mus- the world’s top leaders. The Mount tion handles offering the forms cifically said, “There should be lims who are trying to get away Once again America is faced to register to vote to students at Observer: some kind of halt right now to- from the terrorists themselves. with a tough choice on what the beginning of the school and wards Muslims until we can get It’s a big decision to stop every- to do next regarding Muslims. Your best source concurrent to their own elec- an identification process in place one from coming in. The answer is not clear cut and tion time periods. However, the for campus news. that is fool proof and that will One can do nothing and allow it may even come down to what number of students who actually actually be able to separate ter- Muslims and other immigrants people look at as being right mountobserver.com take advantage of this opportuni- rorists from non-terrorists.” to keep coming into the coun- from wrong. Stop… and think or ty is fairly low. In the beginning Now it’s certainly a hard sub- try running the potential risk of long and hard before deciding of the fall semester, only 30-32 facebook.com/the- ject to discuss as the students homegrown terrorist attacks. because the cease and desist of students registered to vote on the who participated pointed out. It’s One can ban all Muslims but run Muslim immigration into Ameri- mountobserver campus, according to the Center like racism. You can’t discrimi- the risk of potential outcry of un- ca is a decision that may not only for Civic Learning and Commu- nate against a whole group just fair treatment and discrimination alter how we look at Muslims, nity Engagement. This Center because of the actions of one or from the masses both outside but also how they and others is responsible for mailing out a few. and inside America. view us. Decisions, decisions.

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Prison Rehabilitation and Education >>>continued from page 2 minimum sentences. active educational program with would have returned to prison materials, restrictions on types able prison populations. Ac- There are several bills before the North Central Correctional during those 20 years. There are of materials (CD’s, spiral bound cording to the Bureau of Justice the legislature that address edu- Institute, the state prison in Gard- ten state prisons. That would books, etc. can be used as weap- Systems web site, “Eighteen cation and safety. Senate bill ner. The funding of the program then mean 5000 fewer convicts, ons), and other issues need to states and the BOP [sic Bureau S 64 and House bill H 1429 in- was based on Pell grants. As 5000 fewer crimes, and 5000 be managed. Additionally, the of Prisons] were operating at cludes provisions to invest in prisoners have no income, they fewer trials. funding formula for community more than 100 percent of their education and job training for qualify for assistance. But dur- But running a program is ex- colleges suffers when students maximum prison facility capac- prisoners. Senate bill S 786 and ing the 1990’s get tough politi- pensive. Several points were do not complete a program. If ity at year end 2014, and seven House bill H 1620 are before cians were able to eliminate Pell brought out during a discussion an inmate is transferred to an- states housed at least 20 percent the legislature to discuss repeal grants for prisoners. Although with Mellissa Sargent, Assistant other prison or is released and of their prison population in pri- of mandatory minimums. Pro- they used 0.5% of the grant Dean at MWCC. Ms. Sargent goes home without finishing the vately operated facilities…” grams such as restorative justice funds available, it was a popular was the lead administrator dur- program, the school is penalized However, little progress is be- (S 71 and H 1313) seek to engage “get tough” mindset that easily ing the prior program at MWCC. in the funding formula. ing made. Until we begin to see offenders with victims, prosecu- pulled this feature away from There is administration need- In July, President Obama pro- ex-convicts as people rather than tors and judges to re-examine the convicts. Over 500 educational ed at the local school and the moted a pilot program for using social pariahs they will continue impact of their crimes. programs in the country closed, prison. Teachers need to be Pell grants for prisoners. There to be disenfranchised politically What is MWCC doing? leaving 14 programs running in recruited and trained. Assess- are reform issues in front of the and socially, suffering tremen- MWCC has just announced that the country. ment tests need to be applied. Massachusetts Legislature, and dous roadblocks to building a they will be developing an edu- Assuming a 5 year turnover Computer access is limited or both liberal and conservative positive and productive life. cation program with the Worces- of population and based on the non-existent. Space, time and groups agree on the need for Until we rehabilitate them more ter County Jail. Rand study’s projections, over personnel have to be commit- prison reform. States and cities actively, they will continue to be Until 1994, MWCC had an 500 fewer released convicts ted by the prison. Review of are struggling with unmanage- a neglected class of citizens.

Courtesy photo / Flickr.com/Kclvey Courtesy photo / flickr.com/vvalentinaramirezz Prime Time for Body Modifications vs Professionalism Presidential By Chelsea Garrity Body modifications, also job is important to you and why. multiple other ear jewelry and I Primaries known as body alterations, are And if your self expression is re- work with customers. I don’t see prevalent among the students ally important, then you need to this as a problem and I am not By: Stevie LaBelle on the MWCC campus. This find a career that is accepting of taking them out,” said Emily Al- As 2016 begins so does the Community College who are includes everything from nose that as well.” She believes you lard, Marketing Assistant at the energy leading into this year’s also Massachusetts citizens, piercings, gauged ears, and tat- should do what you want in this company. There are some gray Presidential Election. For Mas- may register to vote during SGA toos. College is a time where world even if that means you areas about what’s acceptable sachusetts residents the primary election times or by visiting the students get their sense of self have to work 10 times harder to and what is not. It all depends state election will be held on Center for Civic Learning and and experiment with their natu- prove yourself. on if your managers enforce the March 1, 2016. For New Hamp- Community Engagement in ral rights of self expression. Yet FLEXcon in Spencer is a com- policy or not. shire residents the state primary Room 152. The Center will mail college is also a time to develop pany that has production, lab, That is just corporate proce- is held on February 9, 2016. out completed registration cards your skills to eventually get a and office employees. Each area dure; however, art careers seem These primaries are coming at no cost to the student. New long time job. Will these experi- has its own expectations when it to have more opportunity to ex- up quick, and so are the dead- Hampshire citizens may regis- mental times limit us in achiev- comes to dress and appearance. press. “I have both sides of my lines for registering to vote ter to vote by visiting their local ing our future career goals? It all In FLEXcon’s Corporate Policy nose pierced and had my ears or to change political party city/town hall. depends on the goal. under the Dress Code section, gauged. I never had an issue designations. In Massachu- The purpose of a presidential “It’s all about knowing your it states, “Employees in public when it comes to getting jobs or setts, residents must register or primary is for members of the target,” says Patricia J. Brewer- facing positions should not have commissions. People almost ex- change their party designations distinct political parties to ap- ton, the Coordinator of Career visible tattoos or piercings (other pect this from art professionals. by February 10, 2016 accord- point the candidate who will Planning & Placement. From than conventional piercing on They want creative people. It is ing to www.sec.state.ma.us/ele/. represent their party on Elec- her experience, the students get- earlobes).” This is the only men- acceptable,” explained Derek In New Hampshire, residents tion Day November 8, 2016. If ting into the more artistic careers tion of body modification re- Taylor, current student of New are advised to register to vote a person is registered for a spe- have more opportunity to self strictions in the policy. In other Hampshire Institute of Art. He 10 days prior to the election. cific political party, then they express. She still recommends words, if you are not working also has a job with the town of However according to the New may only vote for candidates that you go into the interview with the customers that come in, Acton, working in the summers Hampshire state government of that designated party during with nothing distracting on your you have more freedom to have as a landscaper. “The guys give webpage www.nh.gov those the primary. If a person is reg- face or neck. “You want them to visible alterations. me crap but I don’t care. I still who are eligible to vote may do istered as unenrolled, then they be looking at you and listening to However, all of the employ- got hired and I am a hard worker. so on the day of the election. may choose to vote among any you. You don’t need any flashy ees that were sampled stated that Nothing on my face can change In MA, residents may register of the political parties. Presiden- distractions that limit your op- they were sure to cover up any that.” at their city/ town hall, at local tial primaries are the first step in portunity.” You can go in clean tattoos and remove any facial Body modifications, whether RMVs, or online at https://www. determining for future prospects and polished and then evaluate jewelry during the interview pro- a trend or an ongoing experi- sec.state.ma.us/OVR/. Also, for the position of President of the other employees to gauge cess. “Once I was hired I kinda ment, are at the fore front of to- students at Mount Wachusett the United States. what’s acceptable for your own tested the pack. I evaluated what day’s society. When it comes to appearance. Brewerton adds, everybody else was wearing and getting a job you need to decide “And nobody is MAKING you doing. Then I decided it was safe how important your alterations do anything. If you don’t want to roll up my sleeves. But only in are and weigh that against how Send us your letters: to take out your face jewelry, or the office,” stated a recent hire. important getting/ accepting the cover up your tattoos, then don’t. “I know that the policy states position would be. [email protected] But you need to figure out if the earlobe jewelry only. But I have www.mountobserver.com 6 Observerreview February 3, 2016 Pink Floyd’s The Travel Sequence Track Review By Patrick J. Miller “On the Run” could be one of `What I actually like about this tight jam represents a much more the more uninteresting pieces of track was that it was an instru- “frantic” form of travel, with no the Pink Floyd album “The Dark mental jam consisting of a lead real indication as to which mode Side of the Moon.” Written by guitar [Gilmour], bass [Waters], it is trying to represent. Roger Waters and David Gilm- keyboard [Richard Wright] and Composition wise, every in- our, it is a composition that was drums [Nick Mason] doing a strument is up front, with the created by entering an 8-note se- perfect job in both playing to- lead guitar dominating slightly quence into an EMS Synthi AKS gether and separating to do their over the bass, with the keyboards synthesizer and speeding it up own jams/solos while still fall- right behind them. Oddly, from with a white noise generator cre- ing back together perfectly right the beginning until the band de- ating the “hi-hat” sound effects. before the song ends fading out cides to end the song, drummer Originally recorded in January, to another. This is mostly true Nick Mason decided to constant- 1973, the song feels more like with live performances, with the ly use one of the cymbals while Courtesy photo / flickr.com/asecugsm an experimental piece than an Brighton 1972.05 performance just slamming on the drums at a actual finished song. While I get being the only version so far to much more constrained, but con- the meaning of this song intend- be officially released, also on the stant beat, giving off the “fran- David Bowie Tribute ing to be representative of travel “Dark Side of the Moon Immer- tic” urgency this recording has, pressures, as well as the fear of sion Boxset.” and I really like it. The Stars Look Very Different Today death at any point, I just kind With the Studio Version, re- Overall, this outtake is good. It By Jason D. Greenough of don’t get this song at all. At corded sometime before January represents the part in the “Dark the very worst, it is just “there.” 1973, it was a much tighter jam Side of the Moon” album about Even as a lifelong bookworm, ship and pizazz to a whole new The overall composition feels a overall. Another major differ- traveling nicely, but as history reading of the ins and outs of level, and while he changed with bit underwhelming overall, even ence between this version and dictated, it would later be re- Rock n’ Roll, when I hear that the times, he stayed more true to considering what its original all live performances was that placed by “On the Run.” It is a Musician has died, it doesn’t his craft than most, always put- genesis was one year earlier. live versions tend to last around available as a Studio Outtake on always hit me deeply. When ting the heart and soul before the The Travel Sequence is the 4-5 minutes, just as frequently the “Dark Side of the Moon Im- Lemmy Killmister, legendary dollar sign. early version of “On the Run.” pushing past 6 minutes and even mersion Boxset” as well as the frontman of Motorhead, passed Starting with Ziggy Stardust As it was an earlier version of an reaching 7 at rare occasions. The Brighton 1972.05 live recording, away just before New Years Eve, in 1972, Bowie created alter- eventually published song, The Studio Version lasts just 2 min- but other live recordings of this it didn’t hit me the way it others egos for himself that put him in Travel Sequence was withdrawn utes, but it gets its point across song have been confirmed to ex- because I am, admittedly, not a the spotlight, and made it seem for obvious reasons. in that short amount of time. The ist. [8/10] fan of Motorhead. When Natalie as if some guitar-wielding rock Cole, famed singer and Daugh- star had ascended from Jupiter go Unchained, and Pulp Fiction classic Tarantino brutality that is ter of Jazz legend Nat King Cole, to blow our minds with Sci-Fi to name a few. all too familiar, but not as much passed away on New Years Eve, themes, and raw power that was, Starring an superior cast from as you would find in Kill Bill or it didn’t hit me the way it may with no pun intended, out of this the likes of Samuel L. Jackson Django Unchained. Also worth have hit others, because I am, world. That birthed the creativity (Star Wars Episodes 1-3, The mentioning is that the film was admittedly, not a fan of Natalie of so many; to try and put a num- Avengers), Kurt Russell (Posei- shot in a classic format using 70 Cole. I will admit, however, that ber on it would be an exercise in don, Furious 7), Jennifer Jason mm cameras instead of the new I was crushed when I heard the futility. Leigh (Weeds, Revenge), and digital format, now a standard news of Eagles founding father Even while secretly dying Channing Tatum (Dear John, for Hollywood. The movie looks Glenn Frye’s passing, because I of liver cancer, he man found a 21 Jump Street, Magic Mike), easily as good as any digital was a huge Eagles fan. way to record a full-length al- The Hateful Eight just glimmers movie (for instance, Star Wars or But when I heard the news that bum, Blackstar, and tell us oh-so from the performance of the ac- The Hobbit Trilogy) and person- David Bowie, the visionary rock subtly “goodbye” through music tors and actresses in the film. ally, I hope more movies follow star who penned such classics as videos for songs like “Lazarus” Dialogue between characters is this classic format in the future “Space Oddity”, “Changes” and and the title track. Both highly rich and enticing; unpredictable (I’m not getting my hopes up, “Under Pressure”, had passed recommended jams, both highly and alive. These characters seem though). th away on January 11 after a heart-wrenching once you real- Courtesy photo / Egoitz Moreno like real people living back dur- Quentin Tarantino considers shocking revelation of a coura- ize the significance and the hid- ing the post-Civil War era, where this film a snow-western. Now, geous 18-month battle with can- den message. Tarantino the story takes place. as someone who does not par- cer, it hit me pretty hard. Even Many of us wouldn’t have In the snowy hills of Wyo- ticularly enjoy western movies though, admittedly, I am not as picked up an instrument, or ming, bounty hunters cross paths at all, I have to confess that this well versed of a Bowie fan as screamed into a microphone, or Returns: and find themselves in a strange movie really brought the genre many others are. even dressed the way we felt predicament: a blizzard is com- back to the light. To be honest That’s not saying that I wasn’t comfortable had it not been for The ing quickly and the only shelter however, I’m not sure if I would a fan at all, though. For me, my Bowie’s influence on pop cul- they can hole up in is an inn classify this film as a western at affinity for Bowie went well be- ture. I’m still not as well-versed Hateful for travelers, merchants and the all. Of course it is a western, but yond his musical genius, which of a Bowie as I wish I was when like. The inn is already occupied it feels like so much more. There spanned over 50 years. This en- he was alive, but from a new however, and now the bounty is such depth to the characters try is shared from the heart of a listener, I say thank you. Thank Eight hunter John Ruth (Kurt Rus- and the world they live in, espe- novice. you, David, for your light, your sell) must hold onto his $10,000 cially in post-Civil War era. Dia- Bowie was the vanguard of smile, your voice, your passion, Review bounty, Daisy Domergue (Jenni- logue carries weight, the small a movement of outcasts and your power, and your hetero- By: John Mossey fer Jason Leigh) for the next two and insignificant actions that showed so many that being dif- chromia. days while in the company of an- characters perform while talk- ferent was okay. With his glam The stars indeed look differ- I’m going to start this review other bounty hunter, a sheriff, a ing to one another makes them and flamboyancy, he introduced ent today, and it’s because a new off by saying that The Hateful hangman, a confederate general, feel real and alive. This movie to the world of Rock n’ Roll ex- star is flying across the night sky Eight is one of the best mov- a cattle-herder, and a lone Mexi- is a western and so be it, but it’s cess a streak of real artistry, gen- in a tin can. Planet Earth is still ies I had the pleasure of seeing can. the best damn western I’ve ever uine ingenuity, and a heart for blue, and there is nothing we can in 2015. Quentin Tarantino, the What I enjoyed most about seen. what he was creating. His music do, but carry on your legacy in mastermind behind this film, is this movie is how little action The Hateful Eight gets an touched people and still does. His us all, and spread love, art, and one of Hollywood’s underdog di- there was. This is a movie about easy 4.5 out of 5. Do yourselves persona and stage presence influ- light. rectors that deserves more credit characters and the power of dia- a great pleasure and watch this enced the glam rock sub-culture Thank you, David. than is given to him, and his logue. Throughout the movie, movie. That is all that needs to that brought bands like KISS and eighth film, The Hateful Eight, there are multiple instances be said. Watch this movie. The Tubes into the spotlight. His is no exception compared to his where words deliver more power stage shows brought showman- earlier masterpieces, which in- than any gun could. Don’t get clude Inglorious Bastards, Djan- me wrong, there is action and www.mountobserver.com February 3, 2016 Observerreview 7 Review: Bill Burr’s Star Wars F is for Family Episode By Jason D. Greenough and the most outspoken; all are VII: The Who doesn’t go on an occa- qualities in some of the world’s sional Netflix binge from time to funniest comedians, including time? Don’t kid yourself, we just Force Burr. Again, I am only assuming got back from almost a month Courtesy photo / flickr.com/David_Eckelman that the Canton native felt the off. You had to have watched at Introducing the new Star Wars villain, Kylo Ren. need to inject himself directly Awakens least a few days-worth of Netflix into the animation in some way originals, and seasons of Net- or another. work smash hits, which seem Review The show is drenched in nos- to accumulate like rabbits on talgic 1970’s feeling, music, streaming. droid sounds and starship noises; son for their return: the veterans sports fandom, with many refer- By: John Mossey Master of None, Peeky Blind- the foreign aliens and planets; are paving the way for the new- ences to how kids grew up in the I might receive some slack ers, Mad Men, Parks and Recre- a well done replica of the Mos comers, showing them the ropes era. And while Burr voices the for this, but this movie was not ation…the list goes on and on! Eisley Cantina and the returning if you will, and are helping the father, Frank Murphy, a Korean all it was hyped up to be. Was it But one show that stood out to designs of the X-Wings and Tie audience get to know the new war veteran, I would go as far good? Absolutely. Easily one of me over holiday break was F is Fighters, both of which received characters and to make them feel to say as Bill is really the main the best Star Wars films ever. But for Family, a Simpsons/Family slight upgrades and visual en- welcome. It was a brilliant idea character, as a lot of the story why wasn’t it great? Well, here’s Guy mash-up of sorts, created hancements. on JJ Abrams part to include the lines that take place throughout the thing: not even including the by Stand-up Comic and Massa- New and upcoming actors and old characters, but not to put a the first season’s six episodes in- fact that this movie followed a chusetts native Bill Burr. actress Daisy Ridley, John Boye- huge emphasis on them. clude the red head as a main cog. very similar formula that Star The cartoon, which features ga, Oscar Isaac, and Adam Driv- The movie is full of subtle ref- And in the arena of side-splitting Wars Episode IV: A New Hope buckets-full of “adult” humor, er join the veterans of the series: erences to the older movies, and laughs, Burr’s outbursts as a had, this movie’s storyline was a few snippets of Burr’s own Harrison Ford (Han Solo), Car- takes steps to stand out from the disgruntled Dad really carry the dull and predictable. J.J. Abrams stand-up routines, as well as rie Fisher (Leia Skywalker), other six. A new lightsaber de- show while the plots play out, did an excellent job reviving the what I surmise as exaggerated Mark Hamill (Luke Skywalker), sign is introduced, and boy oh almost flawlessly. Star Wars series, but the story (or maybe not exaggerated) Peter Mayhew (Chewbacca), boy is that lightsaber mean and I loved the show deeply, and I was his greatest (and only) fault. events that took place in Burr’s and Anthony Daniels (C-3P0). nasty. The new villain, Kylo Ren look forward to a second season. Despite a boring storyline own life as a kid growing up The classic character we know (Adam Driver), is the wielder A perfect 10 out of 10, if you ask however, it was the characters in the 70’s never stops for one and love really shined on the big of this fierce new weapon. The me. I highly recommend it as and the Star Wars universe that second to dry up. I mean, the screen again, and what a true plasmatic sound of this light- well, but just a fair warning… helped this movie shine. Anyone youngest Boy, named Bill, is the pleasure it was to see all their saber is easily as intimidating don’t attack me if it offends you. fan of Star Wars will instantly only red-headed kid in the fam- returns. However, there is a rea- Happy viewing, fellow reader! feel at home with the familiar ily, he’s the wittiest of the kids, continued on page 8>>>

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Contact Information: Sonia Patota • [email protected] • Elms: 413-265-2383 • MWCC: 413-313-3322 www.elms.edu/mwcc www.mountobserver.com 8 Observerreview February 3, 2016

teresting to you. Or don’t, it doesn’t mat- ter to me. Maybe you don’t like funny. Ya’ Star Wars Episode VII: The Force know, some people don’t like cake. But I >>>continued from page 7 do, and you better believe that I will tell Awakens Review you how good I think this cake is. In other words, whether you like it or not, fellow and jokes being made were concerning reader, I will share my thoughts on this as the fresh design. Also included is a new references only Star Wars fans could comedy special. Rather, every day obser- class of Stormtrooper; a Stormtrooper who appreciate and enjoy and this helped vations and thoughts, jammed into over wields a melee weapon that can deflect build a comradery in the theater. And on an hour material that will leave you need- the attacks of a lightsaber. Watching one the subject of the theater atmosphere, ing to pause it to regain your breath. Well, of these new Stormtroopers was quite en- Courtesy photo / flickr.com/superseriousshow it was easily the best atmosphere I’ve I had to at least. gaging as no Star Wars fan has ever seen been in for a movie before. Everyone His demeanor is that of someone who a Stormtrooper go up against a lightsaber was excited and thrilled and when Review: has conquered the world with his jokes, with such determination and ferocity. STAR WARS came up on the black having the crowd wrapped around his fin- My favorite portion of the movie was the screen with the classic John Williams ger the whole time. But at the same time, intense lightsaber duel towards the finale Tom Segura’s theme, the whole theater was clapping he has the demeanor of someone who just of the film. I won’t say names to prevent and cheering and I simply couldn’t help doesn’t want to be there, remaining mono- spoilers, but this lightsaber duel is eas- but join in. Star Wars is back, and de- tone for almost the whole set, only raising ily the most brutal duel in all of Star Wars Mostly Stories spite some flaws, it’s better than ever. his voice a handful of times to reach high movies. Where it lacked the emotion be- By Jason D. Greenough It’s not the best movie of 2015, but it exaggerations. Segura does this in a way tween the two duelists, it added brutality in is still a damn good movie that any Star God, I love stand-up comedy. I drink it that is dry, but at the same time, intrigu- the wounds inflicted and the force powers Wars fan can appreciate. I was afraid in like a sick kitty drinks from a plastic ing, and I think that is what makes him used. The sounds of the lightsaber clashing that Disney would soften the movie needle. Num, num, num. so unique. Sure, his quiet, grumbly voice was a classic and comfortable sound that up since acquiring the rights, but am ….Okay, that was a little weird. I’m channels a retro Steven Wright persona, any fan would be proud of. I’m glad they happy to say that this is not the case. sorry. Let’s continue…This never hap- but these jokes, these wonderfully sculpt- decided to include blood in this movie be- Though there are lots of comic relief pened. ed musings, which are mostly stories of cause in all actuality, lightsabers are going portions, there are some dark and brutal Where was I? Oh yeah! I love stand-up his daily life, given the title, are refresh- to draw blood when a wound is inflicted. elements too and the addition of blood comedy! ing in a way. That way being that it isn’t One aspect of this movie that I particu- was a welcome addition. All in all, Star My comedic taste ranges from George Kevin Hart, who seems to be in EV.ERY. larly enjoyed was the comic relief spewed Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens Carlin and his political and cultural obser- THING lately, or some bland toilet humor throughout the movie. Not only was it fresh gets a 4 out of 5. vations to Dane Cook and his stock room that has been shouted through a micro- and actually funny, but a lot of the humor full of d**k jokes. One comic that I have phone incoherently. Well, there is toilet come to especially enjoy as of late though humor. But it’s awesome toilet humor. is Tom Segura, who just released his sec- So, I give this a 10 of 10, and strongly ond Netflix-produced stand-up special, suggest that you check it out if comedy and it is absolute gold! brings you out of the dumps like it does Segura touches on a lot of crazy, yet me! Cheers! common, everyday things. I would hate to spoil it for you, so watch it if it seems in-