horizons may 2013
DESCRIPTION
Horizons is the student-run newspaper of Housatonic Community College in Bridgeport, Conn. http://hccperspective.blogspot.com/TRANSCRIPT
A&E
News
Opinions
The Student Senate is a Place to be Heard
HCC Headlines: 50 Years of Higher Education
Getting Some Culture Through HCC Events
http://hccperspective.blogspot.com May 2013
Find Out What’s Annoying in the Computer Lab
Sculpture and the Teacher’s View:
David Livingston
2
arts & entertainmentcont ntse
Horizons StaffEditorinChiefDavid Weidenfeller
Advisor
Professor Cynthia Boynton
Educational AssistantBrandon T. Bisceglia
Editors
Santi Achinelli, Katelyn Avery, Jessica Brooks, Karen Fernandez, Sherly Montes, Sam Rosoff
Senior Staff WritersDannyy Alamo, Stephanie Castillo, Elizabeth Figueroa, Rachel Kulikowski, Rebecca Legoute, Myranda Sinkler
Staff WritersLauren Cherry, Amanda Figueroa, Joey Gargano, Angela Gee, Joshua Hamel, Kathryn Hanrahan, Neil Knox, Jack Loretan,
Shaquana Minott, Latisa Pacheco, Alex Rovello, Remy Sanon, Emma Tecun, Shannon Vaugh
Art and Design Director:David Kisly
Design Advisor:Professor Andy Pinto
As HCC’s 50th Birthday Approaches ............................................................ 3BY NEIL KNOXSTAFF WRITER
HCC Clubs Get a New Budget ........................................................................ 4BY KATELYN AVERYEDITOR
HCC in a Nutshell ............................................................................................ 4JACK LORETANSTAFF WRITER
Hidden Space On the 3rd Floor ...................................................................... 4BY LATISA PACHECOSTAFF WRITER
Weekly Christian Study Group at HCC ........................................................ 4BY NEIL KNOXSTAFF WRITER
Wellness Center ................................................................................................ 5DANNYY ALAMOSENIOR STAFF WRITER
Smoke Sesh Anyone? ....................................................................................... 5DANNYY ALAMOSENIOR STAFF WRITER
Under the Staircase .......................................................................................... 5BY MYRANDA SINKLERSENIOR STAFF WRITER
The Evening Division ....................................................................................... 5BY JOSHUA HAMELSTAFF WRITER
Early Childhood Laboratory School ............................................................. 6AMANDA FIGUEROASTAFF WRITER
Social Media Lets Students Know .................................................................. 6BY EMMA TECUNSTAFF WRITER
We Should All Want To Be Heard And Participate ..................................... 7BY NEIL KNOXSTAFF WRITER
I’ve Gotta Do What? ....................................................................................... 8BY SHERLY MONTESEDITOR
Is It The Man Or The Topic? .......................................................................... 8BY KATHRYN HANRAHANSTAFF WRITER
Summer Classes: ............................................................................................. 9BY JESSICA BROOKSEDITOR
The Meditation Room ...................................................................................... 9AMANDA FIGUEROASTAFF WRITER
Cultural Events at HCC .................................................................................. 9BY KATELYN AVERYEDITOR
Disruptions Inside the Computer Lab ......................................................... 10BY LATISA PACHECOSTAFF WRITER
I’m Not Where I Want to Be ......................................................................... 10BY ELIZABETH FIGUEROASENIOR STAFF WRITER
Security Guards Prove Their Quality ...........................................................11BY KATELYN AVERYEDITOR
Roving Reporter ..............................................................................................11BY REBECCA LEGOUTESENIOR STAFF WRITER
Bringing The 90’s Back: ............................................................................... 12BY STEPHANIE CASTILLOSENIOR STAFF WRITER
Murder $he Wrote ......................................................................................... 12BY DANNY ALAMOSENIOR STAFF WRITER
The Ghosts Will Walk Part Two ................................................................... 13BY D.C. WEIDENFELLEREDITOR IN CHIEF
HCC Alumna Gives Back to the Community .............................................. 14BY SAM ROSOFFEDITOR
Why He Stays ................................................................................................. 14BY RACHEL KULIKOWSKISENIOR STAFF WRITER
HORIZONS
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arts & entertainmentnewseBY NEIL KNOXSTAFF WRITER
!"#$%%#&''()&*+,"#-."#/0.-,.+#&11-versary, the Presidential Archive is being assembled to meet the deadline. Due to years of benign neglect and the initiation of the digital age the archive has gone overlooked. Working on such a project would be
a daunting task for even a professional archivist, yet it has become a challenge that one member of the school staff takes up with enthusiasm and determination.2+,#3-4-15.-6,#/75(,#)0#8".+,(#9&.
stein stands alone in a small room of '&*:,3#/;,# *&<-1,."# &13# '-;,"# )0# 1,="paper clippings with the slightest look of exasperation. But after speaking with her for only a few minutes you get the idea that this is the right person for the job.She is by no means a professional ar
chivist, but she has graciously accepted the challenge of organizing, cataloging and determining the importance of each of the iems at her disposal, while more and more pour in everyday.>2+,(,# -"# &# 3,/1-.,# 1,,3# 0)(# ');-*?#
to be written regarding what needs to be saved. More and more of the schools records and schedules are only accessible online now which results in a problem maintaining written records.” She notes that “this is a requirement for any archive.”In some cases determining what ac
tually needs to be archived is relatively easy, but much more goes into the making of a school’s history than just the )<6-)5"# 4&.,(-&;"@# A)# 0)(# .+,# "',*-/*"#Watstein was fortunate enough to spend a day at the University of Connecticut with Betsy Pittman, a professional archivist.“I am very grateful for the time she
spent here at HCC and allowing me to spend a day with her at UCONN to get an idea of what a real archive should look like. Hopefully all the material and documents you see here now will be properly packaged and dated or future reference.”“When the expansion is completed
+,(,# -1# B&0&?,..,# $&;;# =,# *&1# /1&;;?#move the archived materials to the school library where it actually belongs,” she says, also noting that the expansion she mentioned for Lafayette “would add &# *)5';,# )0#4)(,# C))("# .)# .+,# ,D-".-17#
building.”Some of the more intriguing items
Watstein displayed were original school *&.&;)7"#3&.-17#<&*:#.)#.+,#/(".#",4,".,(#at HCC in 1966, alumni newsletters, and original copies of the school’s yearbooks starting in 1968.The school newspaper, which was
".&(.,3# &13# /(".# '5<;-"+,3# -1# EFGH# &"#SpeakEasy seemed to be one of Watstein’s personal favorites from the archive. She makes sure that there are three copies of each issue and notes the name changes for the paper over the course of the past 50 years.“It started out as SpeakEasy, then
was changed to Housatonic Voice in EFHIJ#&13#.+,1#.)#.+,#K()53#L-6,(#M)-*,#-1# EFHH@# $)(-N)1"# =&"# .+,# ;&".# 1&4,#*+&17,#-1#EFHO@PHaving been a member of the staff at
Housatonic since the 1980’s on a parttime basis, it is clear that Watstein takes pride in her commitment to seeing this project through and is not shy about asking for help.“Any help from students would be
appreciated. Right now the project isn’t quite getting the attention we would like, but hopefully that will change when word starts to spread,” she says.Taking into consideration the large
number of records, including the number of online records, this is a project that is just now in its infancy. Bringing everything together cohesively and accurately will require much in the way of manpower hours and a sense of commitment.Because of available funding the
concept of forming a viable, researchable archive wavers from time to time, but at least at this point it seems within reason that starting somewhere is better than just allowing things to pile up and remain inaccessible.“An archive is meant to to be ac
cessed by all students, and because of that, the only that really works is having it all written and on paper. A student can gain an amazing perspective of this college by doing the research here in the archive. Any student is welcome to come by and have a look,” she says.If there is anyone here on the staff at
HCC who could get the project lifted off the ground and headed in the right direction it is Watstein, a person who takes great pride in a task that is voluntary, not demanded, but yet very demanding.
As HCC’s 50th Birthday Approaches“President’s Archive Gearing Up for School Anniversary”
Esther Watstein, HCC’s Archivist.
Photo by Neil Knox.
The HCC Student Catalog from1974.
Photo by Neil Knox.
The HCC Faculty Art Show from Dec.20 ,1971 From bottom left: Michael Stein, David Kintzler, Barbara
Rothenberg, Burt Chernow and Ron Abbe.
Photo by Neil Knox.
!"#$%&"'()*+',*&'*-(.*/'0#*1.2")'#*0)"(3*&+$*455*,$6)"&$7Graphic by Rebecca Legoute
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BY KATELYN AVERYEDITOR
HCC clubs continue to manage on a modest budget. However, this year proves to be even more thrifty.
Professor Boylan is the Assistant Professor of History and the History Club advisor at HCC. When questioned about his club’s budget, Boylan said, “This semester the budget was cut, in the past we had $1,000 but this semester we received
$400.”While the budget was cut this semester,
Student Activities Department Director Linda Bayusik explained it was not because of lack of funds. Bayusik explained the budget cuts lie within how clubs actually deal with their money. “A lot of clubs are not spending their money and we want clubs,” she said..The $1,000 budget had to be cut, ac
cording to Bayusik, because it wasn’t fair to other clubs who needed money. The
rest of the club budget money is kept in a shared pool of club money. 20 clubs exist at HCC and the $20,000 club budget is now distributed in a fairer way.Clubs are allowed to ask for money
when they need it. “There is no set limit but they [HCC clubs] need to ask for a reasonable amount,” said Bayusik.The $400 may sound small but it has
covered some of the history club’s needs. The club has used the money for transportation on a trip to Antietam in Maryland,
followed by Harpers Ferry, W. Va.Boylan found the history club had an
easy time accessing extra money that they needed in order to go to on a day trip to Plymouth Plantation. “The process is not '&(.-*5;&(;?# 3-0/*5;.@# 2+,# 3-0/*5;.?# =-.+#the money is if we want to open the event to HCC because we need buses,” said Boylan.HCC clubs may not be able to do
schoolwide trips all the time, but small trips or events have been afforded on their modest budgets.
HCC Clubs Get a New Budget
JACK LORETANSTAFF WRITER
Most people know what HCC has to offer when it comes to different majors and courses. On the
other hand, you aren’t really sure what you’re going to be walking into on your /(".# 3&?@# A)# +,(,# -"# &# ;-..;,# ")4,.+-17# .)#inform you of what kinds of students go here, where they are from, and what they are here for.According to the Vital Statistics report
provided by President Anita Gliniecki,
5,968 students attend HCC currently. 62.2% of that population are women; men *)6,(#.+,#).+,(#IH@OQ@#Unlike most universities and colleges,
$%%#+&"#-*+#+-7+,(#&6,(&7,#&7,R#SH@T#years old. The reason is that people are here to change their lives and hopefully move on to something better after maybe a few rough years after high school. This school is unbiased and allows everyone a chance to come in and make something of themselves.The geographic distribution is quite lo
cal, but still spread well among surround
ing towns. Bridgeport accounts for rough;?# TH@EQ#)0#$%%U"# ')'5;&.-)1@#2+,# 1,D.#+-7+,".#',(*,1.&7,#0()4#&#.)=1#-"#&.#EIQ#from Stratford. The valley towns, including Shelton, Ansonia, Derby and Seymour, &;;# *)1"-".# )0# EV@HQ# )0# .+,# ')'5;&.-)1@#Milford accounts for 5.4%; Trumbull, 5%; W&-(/,;3J# TQX#Y)1(),J# S@SQX# &13# /1&;;?#8&".)1J#=-.+#&#=+)''-17#V@IQ@#2+,#(,".#)0#the students are from other towns, which &33"#5'#.)#&<)5.#ES@IQ#)0#)5(#')'5;&.-)1@The ethnic distribution consists of three
main races, and then small percentages from other races. Of the three Hispanics
represent the lowest percentage, at 26.6% )0# ',)';,# &.# $%%@# IE@EQ# &(,# !0(-*&1#!4,(-*&1J# &13# IG@IQ# &(,# 9+-.,Z%&5*&sian. The rest of the population is spread out among those who are Asian, Native American, Native Alaskan, Native Hawaiian, and people of multiple races.69% of the students here are part time
looking for associate’s degrees or just enough credits to transfer to a larger university. Of the 5,968 students, about 5,400 are here for their associate’s degrees, about E[V#0)(#&#*,(.-/*&.,J#&13#()57+;?#TVV#&(,#513,*;&(,3J#.(?-17#.)#/13#.+,-(#*&(,,(#'&.+"@
HCC in a Nutshell
BY LATISA PACHECOSTAFF WRITER
T(?-17#.)#/13#&#\5-,.#"'&*,#)1#$%%U"#campus during the school semester should be easy it’s a college after
all. But if that were true students would not complain or seek out other private areas to think to themselves.>2+-"#-"#.+,#4)".#\5-,.#';&*,#]#*)5;3#/13#
on campus. I can actually think here,” said HCC student Cynthia Calderon.She found the area one day with a few
people studying and thought that it would &;")#<,#<,1,/*-&;#0)(#+,(#.)#".53?#.+,(,#&"#well.“People talk too much and are so loud in
the computer room, like some areas in the library. But I have no distractions here and this room has cool, fresh air so I can relax.”Calderon’s one annoyance about using
this private room instead of the computer room is the school’s WiFi. “It logs me off after an hour of use,” she says. This is a problems for students who are taking an
online test with a personal laptop.HCC student Kiana Riddick says she
loves the private hall. “It’s more quiet and I can concentrate more, while the library has noisy copy machines.”“I go there two to three times a week to
do my homework and listen to my music on a low volume,” Riddick said. “There are just too many loud phone calls in the computer room.”She accidently discovered the room
while looking for her class at the beginning
of the semester. “I turned around and found this lounge spot with barely anyone there,” she said enthusiastically.“It’s a private study hall that I use for my
homework,” said student Stefanie Martillo. She said she used it more often last semester when she was loaded with assignments.2+-"# .+-(3^C))(^7;&""^=-13)=# ",..-17#
1,D.# .)# ())4# I[G^I[H# +&"# >*)40?# ",&."P#and is rarely occupied by students. It’s considered the ‘best seats in the house’ for its peaceful and relaxing surroundings.
Hidden Space on the 3rd Floor
BY NEIL KNOXSTAFF WRITER
While many students on campus at HCC are practicing Christians, several of them interviewed re
cently were unaware of the Christian Study Group that meets here weekly in the Student Center. B)*&.,3# -1# ())4# _$^IEH# )1# .+,# .+-(3#
C))(#)0#_,&*)1#$&;;J#.+,#7()5'#0,&.5(,"#&1#itinerary of Bible study, other events which
include discussion of noted Christian authors and their works and alumni meetings. It is also now being featured on Bridgeport (&3-)#".&.-)1#9`ab^E[IV#)1#.+,#!Y#3-&;@Facilitators of this group include Pro
fessor Shari Harris and Professor Thomas Hardy. Harris says that the group “has been here on campus for several years now. Participation is not a weekly requirement but it is encouraged.”When discussing the issue with several
students, only one was aware of the fact that
such a group existed. Though Terrence I hadn’t used it as of yet he did say if the situation arose where he felt “he was suffering from a crisis at home or in his faith he would 3,/1-.,;?#<,#-1.,(,".,3#-1#'&(.-*-'&.-17@P#$,#also noted, “I am a practicing Christian and it is good to know there is such a resource here on campus.”Terrence’s study partner, Ronnie C., was
also unaware of the groups existence. “It’s really not something I would take part in even though I come from a Christian family.
I have no objection to the group being here at school even though I know that several of my friends would be put off by the thought of a religious group meeting here on campus.” If any student would like to participate or
get an idea of what the group does weekly they will be meeting every Tuesday during ",4,".,(#&.#ESRIV#'@4@
Weekly Christian Study Group at HCC
Horizons is on Facebook!Visit the Housatonic Horizons Facebook fan page to read the latest about what’s
7)-17#)1#&.#$%%#&"#=,;;#&"#&(.-*;,"#?)5#=)1U.#/13#-1#.+,#'&',(J#&13#to send us links, comments, and suggestions.
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DANNYY ALAMOSENIOR STAFF WRITER
Anyone who smokes at the college is told where they can and can’t smoke, but many don’t know that
there is a section that is wellhidden. The side of Lafayette Hall near the children’s center is not used by smokers but is the only place that they’re really allowed to use without going really far. There are
seats, shade and it’s right along the busline. Students are always going to the smoke
area near the computer labs in Beacon Hall or in front of the bookstore in Beacon Hall. Kierston Braxton, a sophomore at HCC, says her friends that smoke always end up dragging her to the area near the Beacon Hall dance studio when the Lafayette Hall smoke area is more convenient. Braxton also said,”I don’t smoke, but
when I go with my friends they want to go
out of the way because there aren’t many places for them to smoke. I didn’t even know that the area near Lafayette existed.”Michael Porter, an HCC student, says
that as an avid smoker he doesn’t like having to walk all the way from one end of the building to the other because it doesn’t give him enough time to enjoy his cigarette. But with the new discovery of the Lafayette Hall smoking area, he feels like he will be able to enjoy himself and have
enough time to get to class.Mark Fredrickson, a freshman at HCC,
says that when he’s between classes he tries to quickly get in a smoke break. But having to go to another building, he just waits until he’s done for the day, which is inconvenient. He says sometimes he feels like he needs it. Now knowing about the Lafayette Hall section, he can stay in Lafayette Hall and make it to class on time.
Smoke Sesh Anyone?
DANNYY ALAMOSENIOR STAFF WRITER
Students and faculty of HCC have 4)".#;-:,;?#&;;#<,,1#)1#.+,#/(".#C))(#of Beacon Hall. Usually during the
.-4,#*;&"","#&(,#*+&17-17J#.+,#/(".#C))(#)0#_,&*)1#-"#/;;,3#=-.+#".53,1."#&13#.,&*+,("#rushing around. However, when the rush ,13"#&13#".53,1."#/;,#-1.)#.+,#*;&""())4"J#ever sit down on those couches located on
.+,#/(".#C))(#&13#;)):#&()513c#8"',*-&;;?#=+,1#-.U"#\5-,.c#d)5#*&1#+,&(#45"-*#")0.;?#pouring out of an open door, and inside that door appears to be a gym!The gym at HCC is labeled The Well
ness center. Even though the gym is right )1#.+,#/(".#C))(#&13#',)';,#'()<&<;?#=&;:#by it everyday, they don’t pay much attention. HCC student Julie Larson shared that she has seen the Wellness Center but has never used it.
Faculty member Claudine CobaLoh, Professor of Psychology and Human Services, explains that she thinks “it is great we have the Wellness Center,” but she does not know much information about it.When you enter the Wellness Center,
there are a few people working out and some popular music playing. Who meets you at the door is student worker Ron Tomas. He explains that any HCC students or faculty can use the gym. He is there to
make “sure the gym is a safe environment &13#,1*)5(&7,#+,&;.+#&13#/.1,""@P#Tomas says, “If you are an HCC student
or faculty member and would like to use the gym, things you need are a current student ID, to watch a short instructional DVD &13#/;;#)5.#&1#&'';-*&.-)1@P#]0#?)5#*)4';,.,#that you can have a free gym membership right at school. This could be especially helpful for people who want to use a public gym but feel memberships can be pricey.
Wellness Center Exposed
BY MYRANDA SINKLERSENIOR STAFF WRITER
There’s a place in HCC that everyone has passed at least once in their time here: the staircase by the com
'5.,("#&13#.+,#",*5(-.?#)0/*,@#e1#.+,#",*)13#C))(# .+,(,# -"# &1# &;*)6,# )0# ")(."# .+&.#students have begun to frequent.On approaching the spot there were
two people crouched over an iPad taking serious notes. One of them was Michael
Walton, an HCC student who is taking a writing class. After being sent out to work on a project he found that this particular spot under the stairs was suitable for his needs.“Being here is less distracting,” says
9&;.)1@#>]#/13#',&*,#&13#.(&1\5-;-.?#+,(,@PTisha is Walton’s classmate. She ad
mits that they usually frequent the big lounge just down the hall, but decided on a whim to come to this spot under the stairs to get away from the chatter. This is their
/(".# .-4,# <,-17# -1# .+,# "').J# <5.# .+,?# 0,;.#that they would come back to it.“Right here is just relaxing. It blocks
out everything the noise and the lights,” says Tisha. “We can really think about what to work on for our project.”Another HCC student, Xavier Mal
donan, was found with his feet propped up &13# -K)3# +,&3'+)1,"# /(4;?# ".5*:# -1# +-"#ears. He says he’s only been to the spot under the stairs a couple times, but he enjoys it.
“I come here to waste time and just kick back,” says Maldonan. “It’s quieter with less people running around.”The spot under the stairs seems like a
valuable part of the HCC community that everyone seems to overlook. A few lucky students have been able to experience the refreshing silence that accompanies the spot under the stairs. But perhaps this spot should stay anonymous, or it will be just as busy as any other part of HCC.
Under the Staircase
BY JOSHUA HAMELSTAFF WRITER
The Evening Division at HCC is an asset to parttime teachers and students alike.
9-;;-&4# f(-0/1J# &# +-7+# ;,6,;# =)(:,(#in the Evening Division said, “It makes a great contribution to the parttime teachers.”
This hidden place provides support to )6,(# IVV# '&(.^.-4,# .,&*+,("# ,4';)?,3# &.#HCC. It helps them with anything from sending them their contracts to making sure their mail is available for them.f(-0/1#"&-3J#>]#=)5;3#5",#-.#-0#]#=&"#&#
part time teacher.” This goes to show his *)1/3,1*,#-1#.+,#",(6-*,"#.+,?#'()6-3,@Patria Spignollo, another worker in
the Evening Division, said, “The division
helps mediate the student to instructor gap. They can get emails for their teachers here and if they are having problems with a class or parttime teacher, they can come here to resolve it.”A lot of students are sent over to this
division when they are having issues, but otherwise they are not that well known by the students. Parttime teachers, however, are well
aware that the place exists. Joanna Bavosa, a student at HCC had
no idea this place existed. “I do not even know what they do,” she said.This shows a lack of knowledge in the
student community and shows there needs to be a spread of information. If a student is in need, they should know where to go instead of being sent around and hoping to make their way there.
The Evening Division
Please Recycle This NewspaperMost of the classrooms at HCC have both a garbage bin and a blue recycling bin. There are only two things that you should put in those bins:
Printer Paper/Notebook Paper Newspaper
These items CANNOT go in the recycling bins:
Food Plastic of any kind, including bottles Other packaging
Any nonpaper items that you throw out while in class must go in the regular trash. The cleaners will not separate our waste for us. Any time you !"#$%#&'%(')&*+,-)'*-).-*&'"/'01&')&232,"/*'."/#4'01&'&/0")&'2%/0&/0#'%('01-0'."/'*%&#'0%'01&',-/!5,,6
Horizons remains committed to assisting in efforts that will result in a cleaner campus and community. Please help us help you by recycling responsibly.
6 !"#$%"&' () (&*+,
Early Childhood Laboratory School AMANDA FIGUEROASTAFF WRITER
It makes it easier for students, staff, and faculty if they are coming to Housatonic Community College to bring
their children to the Laboratory School,” explained Heidi Szobota, director of the Early Childhood Laboratory School.The laboratory school at HCC is a place
where children can play and learn while their parents are in class or at work. For those who are students at the Childhood Education program, the laboratory offers a chance to get handson experience.“The Early Childhood Laboratory
School (ECLS) provides a safe, nurturing, nationally accredited early learning environment for children of students, staff, faculty and the community; it also serve as a laboratory setting and resource for students in the Early Childhood Program and other disciplines in the college.”“It is an excellent program,” said Mari
ann Ziembroski, clerk support of the laboratory school at HCC; who has been working for 10 years in the department.>2+,# 8%BA# +);3"# &# 4&D-454# )0# TH#
children, onethird of the children that attend to ECLS are from the students at
HCC,” said Szobota. The labo(&.)(?# "*+));# +&"# &# *,(.-/*&.,#of achievement of 10 years of "*+));# (,&3-1,""# 0()4# EFFH^SVVH#&"#&#'(,"*+));@The laboratory is deter
mined to make itself a healthy institution and it is devoted to providing a healthy environment that enables children to develop socially, physically, emotionally and intellectually. In addition, they pledge to offer a caring, supporting and healthy place where children and their teachers prepare nutritious snacks and enjoy their stay at the ECLS.. The laboratory school also
prepares the children for kindergarten so that the moment they leave, they do so with the skills needed for their next step in their early future. “We follow the Connecticut preschool standard and planning experience for the children,” said Szobota.Cassandra Maldonado is the mother of
Ricardo, one of the children in the labora
tory school. “I am impressed with my child because he already knows how to spell his name, the ABCs, and he has learned a lot just in one year that I have been bringing
him here,” said Maldonado. The staff and faculty are
really good and they know how to handle the children. Also they are very helpful and supportive when it comes to the children and other things. “The place is really clean and healthy and the staff always wash their hands constantly when they are going to do something regarding the children,” said Maldonado. She would recommend this place to all of her friends.Armando Figueroa is a
student at HCC. One day Figueroa heard one of his teachers in class talking to one of his classmates who was pregnant. “Once I heard of this news I decided to go down and check the place,” said Figueroa. This is how he came to
know about the laboratory school. “Once I got there, I went inside and talked to the staff
members. They were polite and showed me the place. I also noticed that the environment was friendly, safe and clean,” explained Figueroa.The laboratory school is a big help for
the parents of all these children who are currently enrolled in preschool. “I do not have any children, but I do have a nephew. I was eager to tell my sister who has a child and is also a student at HCC, and needs help with her child while she is at school,” said Figueroa.In addition to classes, Szobota offers
'&(,1.-17#4,,.-17"J# "5',(6-",3#/,;3=)(:#opportunities and community resources. Children are naturally curious and learn best when allowed to explore, manipulate real objects, work together with adults and other children. The classroom activities reC,*.#.+,",#1,,3"#&13#0)".,(#-13,',13,1*,X#empathy, cooperation and creativity.The ECLS has an art show made by
the children called “The Little Hand Art Show.” The art is exhibited in the Lafayette Hall cafeteria throughout the entire month of April. For those who need help with their children, the Housatonic Early Childhood Laboratory School is the right place to go with a helpful and supportive staff, and a good learning environment accessible to all those who need an extra hand.
The little corner of science.
Photo by Amanda Figueroa.
A view of the atmosphere of the classroom.
Photo by Amanda Figueroa.
BY EMMA TECUNSTAFF WRITER
Student are consistently updating and checking into their Facebook and Twitter feeds, but little do HCC students and faculty know, school information can now be found in these same places.The ability to gain information on
school events, changes in schedules, and on campus activities is easier than you think. HCC has had a Facebook page since SVVHJ#&13#+&"#(,*,1.;?#<,751#5"-17#2=-.ter and Tumblr. It is apparent that students are not aware of this.According to Megan E. Federico, who
works in marketing and graphic design at $%%J#g5".#&<)5.#HVQ#)0#".53,1."#&(,#'&(.#time, and most of these students wants to get into their classes and get out. Fed
erico says, “Liking us on Facebook can 3,/1-.,;?#+,;'#.+,",#".53,1."#7,.#-16);6,3#because it’s just how people communicate now.”A huge disconnect has been created be
tween students and HCC news because of the lack of awareness that our college now has information which can be obtained online. All students and faculty should be aware of the social media pages which our college has to be able to stay updated with events, activities, and changes which happen throughout the college all the time.Even fulltime students who spend
hours at school throughout the week were not aware of the pages.Like many other students, Amanda
Hasiotis has not been aware of the social media pages. “I had seen posters around school but didn’t stop to pay much atten
tion to them, but knowing our school had &# W&*,<)):# 3,/1-.,;?# =)5;3# +&6,# <,,1#helpful if I knew earlier.”Smartphones and social media are tak
ing over colleges throughout the nation, and HCC is no different. Other colleges are using these resources much more fre\5,1.;?# .+&1# &1?# ).+,(# &13# &(,# /13-17#much success in getting information to their students. HCC is starting to meet students where they are, and from there get students interested and involved on campus.The online calendar, which can also be
found online, holds relevant information which is continuously being updated and added to. The information which is on the school’s social media pages helps to make the information relatable and relevant to students and even faculty who are used to
using these sites and are familiar with the technology.It is understandable for students to be
hesitant toward the social media which our school has started using and can use these sites at their own discretion, but it is important that students are aware of the on;-1,#)'')(.51-.?@#Y)".#".53,1."#/13#W&*,book and Twitter to be easily accessible, and now that HCC is online, the college is trying to reach students in a way which ')"-.-6,;?#<,1,/."#,&*+#".53,1.@##
HCC’s Facebook page is
available at facebook.com/
HousatonicCommunityCollege.
The college’s Twitter account is
twitter.com/HCCinfo.
Social Media Lets Students Know
7!"#$%"&' () (&*+,
BY NEIL KNOXSTAFF WRITER
While students were gearing up for the end of the spring semester at HCC, it appears as if
the recent Student Senate elections were overlooked by many of us.The school boasts an enrollment of
over 5,000 students, but only 250 votes were tabulated.Despite the overall lack of student par
ticipation, Senate members seemed undeterred about the turnout. One reason cited for a lack of voter interest was students being aware of just who is involved in the annual election process.With many students attending classes
while holding down jobs and providing for families all at the same time, it seems as if the student government would be the last thing with which we should be concerned. However, we should also remem<,(#.+&.#)5(#".53,1.#7)6,(14,1.#-"#.+,#/(".#link between the student body and school administration. It is our responsibility to make sure we are represented properly and by the best available candidates.When the gavel sounded at the ap
pointed time and initial proceedings were out of the way, the new President of the
Senate was named. Claudia Moldonado will be replacing Catherine Williams in .+,#W&;;#SVEI#",4,".,(@Every activity that takes place on cam
pus, including the various club activities, has to be scrutinized by the Senate for approval. Allocation of funds, along with the tedious task of making sure every event runs as smoothly as possible, is the result of what happens during these meetings in ())4#_$^IEH`#-1#.+,#A.53,1.#%,1.,(@There is no indication that any of the
participants meet these challenges begrudgingly, but student support and participation would enhance the experience for all concerned. Watching the proceedings gives one the feeling of just how dif/*5;.#-.#-"#0)(#&#(,'(,",1.&.-6,#7)6,(14,1.#to function properly.Vibrant student government requires
participation by all students and those placed in charge by the student body. Af.,(# &;;J# -0#=,# .+,# ".53,1."#/13#&#'&(.-*5;&(# &*.-6-.?# .)# <,# &# 051# .-4,# )(# /13# )1,#that doesn’t quite meet our approval we would have the opportunity to voice our opinions and be heard. We shouldn’t complain if something sponsored here at school doesn’t live up to expectations if we chose not to take part in the process of choosing.
A recent club event sponsored on campus resulted in a poor turnout and the caterer supplying food for that event was left not only with too many meals untouched, but also with an unpaid bill. The unused food was given free of charge to any student lucky enough to be around at the time, but the question of payment was another matter. The Senate resolved the issue, even though it wasn’t their responsibility. “It is in the best interest of the Senate
to handle any unpaid bills, even though a particular club is responsible for it. This is something that will be discussed and settled at a later date by the Student Life e0/*,JP#"&-3#h,;;?#h@#$)',J#.+,#!""-".&1.#Director of Student Activities.>2+,#".53,1.#B-0,#)0/*,#-"#(,"')1"-<;,#
for training the club advisors, and this should be the last time something like this happens,” Hope continued.It was also noted during this meeting
that there is a need for new workers in the A.53,1.#B-0,#%,1.,(#)1# .+,# .+-(3#C))(#)0#Beacon Hall. Any student wishing to be considered for an available position can /;;#)5.#&1#&'';-*&.-)1#&.#.+,#*,1.,(@“Any student who would like to apply
for these positions should be receiving /1&1*-&;#&-3J#&"#0513-17#-"#1).#&6&-;&<;,J#
should already be registered for the fall semester before applying,” added Hope. “They should also intend on being at Housatonic for more than one semester.” ]0#?)5#=)5;3#;-:,#.)#=-.1,""#/(".^+&13#
the workings of your Senate representatives, or want to get an idea of exactly how the procedures affect everyday life on campus, then stop by the next meeting and participate. Make your feelings known. Get to know who it is that represents you and your interests.Even if you have an issue that you
think would make your time at Housatonic more enjoyable and enhance your journey, then this is the place to be heard. While some of us may deem the entire process boring and remain uninterested, this is the place to come and gripe about it. Demand a way for greater access to the candidates involved, ask questions, and be a part of the process. It is vital to be involved in the govern
mental process at all levels. If we chose not to be, then we give up the right to complain about the policies that a particular government implements. It starts here on campus and it will will be a responsibility we will all carry on into the world. So, lets all bear a portion of that responsibility.
We Should All Want to be Heard and Participate
Student Senate Meeting April 25, 2013
8 !"#$%"&' () (&*+,(-./(012(3,*
BY SHERLY MONTES
EDITOR
Classes are almost over, summer is almost here! But wait! Have you reg-".,(,3#0)(#.+,#0&;;#",4,".,(#?,.c#i)c#
Take a few steps back and walk in the right direction. That direction would be Lafayette Hall, because that’s where you can go look up information about available classes for the fall semester.Registration for the Fall and Summer
SVEI#",4,".,("#<,7&1#!'(-;#SJ#&13#(,7-".(&tion for the Fall semester will continue to run until Aug. 26.“Get things done early, I can’t say that
enough!,” said Registrar James Connolly. Connolly went on to say that before you come to the registrar, he recommends that you see your academic advisor. >d)5#*&1#(,7-".,(#,6,(?#3&?#0)(# .+,#0&;;#
semester. Register early but complete your /1&1*-&;# &-3# 0)(# .+,# ",4,".,(# /(".@# ]0# =,#don’t receive a payment, you get dropped from your classes, fees must be paid by May 15 and full payment is needed by August 6.”Connolly also said that the registrar does
send out reminders of payment to students strictly through email to their student HCC emails.
Registering as soon as possible is key here.>d)5#*&1U.#=&;:#-1#+,(,#)1,#=,,:#<,0)(,#
classes start and expect to get classes you need and want,” said Connolly.Registration doesn’t have to be this big
thing where you take out a few hours or a day to come to campus to register. Through the Housatonic website, students are able to register for classes online and they can get stepbystep instructions right at home by going on to the HCC site and clicking the “Registration is Easy” button.HCC’s Academic Advising Center is also
useful in the registration process; in fact, it’s key!Meeting with an academic advisor is
helpful because an academic advisor can discuss with you requirements for your major, can help you pick classes and set up your schedule for the upcoming semester. The academic advising center is available to all students, year round, and during peak advisement periods students can walk into the academic advising center without an appointment.“I sat down and did it all online. It’s eas
ier and more convenient,” said HCC student Colby Nolan. “Advising is helpful because it helps students get on the right track with that
they want to do with their lives, and what education to get to be able to achieve their goal.”“From personal experiences, registra
tion has been pretty easy. I just logged onto Blackboard Learn and picked the classes I
needed. Then I was done. Nice and easy,” said Nolan.Now that you know what you have to do,
go on! Registration is happening now, so do it while you can still get the classes you need at the times you want.
arts & entertainmentnews you can useo
BY KATHRYN HANRAHANSTAFF WRITER
Why do Professor John Sophak’s *;&"","# /;;# 5'# =-.+-1# .+,# /(".#0,=#+)5("#)0#(,7-".(&.-)1c#]"#-.#
+-"#.,&*+-17#".?;,#)(#.+,#*;&""#3-"*5""-)1"cGeneral studies student and anticipat
ing spring graduate Janile Murray said her highlight being a student here was being a part of Professor Sopchak’s Psychology course. “ He was a fun professor to be around, he really gets involved with pulling us in and making lessons relatable.”Sopchak started off at HCC as an ad
junct professor back in 2001 before becoming a fulltime senior professor spe*-&;-N-17# -1# ",6,1# /,;3"# )0# '"?*+);)7?#in the spring of 2004. Although Sopchak "',*-&;-N,"# -1# .+,# .,&*+-17#)0# #KAd#8EEE#&13#KAd#8EESJ#+,# ,1g)?"# &#+-7+,(# 0)*5"#on lifespan development and child psych and development. Last fall he taught theories of personality but won’t be teaching it
this fall. “I like to leave
courses behind that the other professors really enjoy teaching,” said Sopchak. This semester Michael C. Amico taught the personality course.“After last semes
ter, I was astonished on the relationship I built with this particular professor, the way he changed and educated my views on multiple categories of psychology. He could take a class of complete strangers and make them a family at the end of the semester. Despite
everyone’s adversities
attending a local community college in the middle of an urban city, I am honored to know professor Sopchak and would recommend him to anyone, no questions asked,” student Jessica Lawrence said.“I keep my teaching style upfront, hon
est, and real, I don’t hold myself above any other person,” Sopchak said. Sophie, a nickname received by his stu
dents, utilizes concepts from the textbook but incorporates a realistic view painted by professional experience in both the 4,3-*&;#&13#*)4451-.?#');-*-17#/,;3@Since registration opened on April 1,
Sopchak’s Psych 101 class has 29 people enrolled for the fall semester and 28 students set up for Child Psych and Development. Sophie expressed how he’s excited .)# ",,# .+,# ",&."#/;;# 5'# &13#6-,=# 0&4-;-&(#names on the rosters in the higherlevel psychology courses.Remember to register early and reserve
your seats. Also, good luck in wrapping up .+,#"'(-17#",4,".,(#&"#=,#.&:,#/1&;"#&13#plan for summer vacation.
Is it the Man or the Topic?
Visit HCC Online!%5(-)5"#&<)5.#.+,#",(6-*,"J#*)5(","J#&13#'()7(&4"#&.#$%%c#f)#.)#+..'RZZ===@+**@
commnet.edu, the college’s home page. From there you can navigate the various departments, search for courses, or follow links to other useful sites, such as MyCommnet and
the HCC Foundation.
I’ve Gotta Do What?Registration Steps
The “Registration is Easy” page on HCC’s website.
Photo by Sherly Montes
Psychology Professor John Sopchak outside of HCC’s Beacon Hall.Photo
Photo courtesy of Prof. Henry Schissler.
9!"#$%"&' () (&*+,(-./(012(3,*
BY JESSICA BROOKSEDITOR
“jFOV#0)(#.=)#"544,(#*;&"","ck#2+&.U"#absurd!” exclaimed Nadia Johnson, a student at HCC. Students and sum
mer school never had the best relationship, and now the divide is becoming even bigger; but not just because of homework.Money seems to be the root of the
problem when talking about summer classes in college. It seems that the prices are on the rise when students and professors are missing out on fun in the sun.Johnson wanted to take two classes
during the summer so that her fall semester schedule wouldn’t be so heavy.
“I just wanted to get ahead of the game so I could have time to work and go to school and not feel so bogged down with a heavy course load,” said Johnson. “I came to a community college and I’m getting these prices, so I shudder to think what fouryear universities charge!”There could be many different reasons
why Johnson’s two desired classes cost $980. Maybe it was because they were math and art, or maybe because they are accelerated classes. But one thing is certain: as a community college student, money is a major factor that determines a student’s course load and why attending community college is the best choice.A-1*,# .+,#_5("&(U"#e0/*,# *(,&.,"# .+,#
prices for classes whether it is summer, fall or spring semester classes, it was important for them to break down how the formula for pricing works.For example, three classes at three
credits apiece in the traditional fall and "'(-17#",4,".,("#*)".#jEJHFFJ#=+-;,#.&:ing the same classes during the summer ",""-)1# =-;;# *)".# ?)5# jEJFIE@# 2+&.# -"# &#jEIS#3-00,(,1*,#g5".#0)(#.&:-17#.+,#*;&""es during the June and July months.The chart, which is available to all
students, includes the exact pricing for classes per credit and the additional fees that are required to take classes here at HCC.According to the HCC Web page, in
2012, “Tuition for a threecredit course -"# jTHIJ# -1*;53-17# 0,,"JP# =+,(,&"# 1)=#the threecredit course for the summer class session is $515.A $42 difference may not seem like a
big deal to most people, but when “pinching pennies” is a crucial element in your chance at learning, it becomes important.Though the cost of summer classes
are continuing to rise, there hasn’t been a solid response to the common question &":,3R#=+?c#9+&.# -"# .+,# (,&")1# 0)(# .+,#-1*(,&",#-1#*)".c#]1#)(3,(#0)(#".53,1."#.)#get ahead in their studies, summer classes seem like the obvious choice, but with the rising costs, that may no longer be an option to some.
Summer Classes: The Cost Of Learning
AMANDA FIGUEROASTAFF WRITER
Alicia Mcqueen is “kind of a new student;” she has only attended two semesters at HCC. “Because
I am new I do not know about the Meditation Room,” said Mcqueen. “I am going to /13#4)(,# -10)(4&.-)1# &<)5.# .+,#Y,3-.&tion Room and I will use this place to go in and pray because I like to pray and worship God,” said Mcqueen.Mcqueen thinks that the Meditation
Room is an excellent place on campus; for
people who do not have time to worship or to pray in their homes because they spend most of their time in school, the room is a great place to go.The Meditation Room is located in
_,&*)1# $&;;# EEOJ# )1# .+,# /(".# C))(# 1,&(#the Wellness Center. Inside the room there are six individual armchairs and two little tables. One of the tables is between two chairs and the other is in a corner; on top of it there is a box of tissues and some blankets. There are also two signs, one outside and the other one inside on the door that say: “This space is for individual
quiet meditation and prayer.”Abigail Cabrera is a student at HCC
who recently found out about the Meditation Room. “I sat down in front of it one day, but at that moment I did not know it was the meditation room,” said Cabrera. Cabrera believes that it is very comfortable and quiet. “Now I can go at any time or when I feel stressed out I just go into the room to pray, and then I feel calm,” said Cabrera.Also if a person just wants to have
some quiet time to study, that person just has to come in to the Meditation Room,
where he or she is going to have plenty of silence and concentration.Dominick Jurkowski is a student at
HCC and he does not know about the Meditation Room. But Jurkowski might use the room to go and study. “I think that the room is good to have in the school because it shows that the college wants to help its students to accommodate their spiritual needs,” said Jurkowski.This room offers students a nice quiet
time where they can relax from all of the stress that they have or might have from homework, work and projects.
The Meditation Room
BY KATELYN AVERYEDITOR
Cultural events enhance students’ views of the world.If a student at HCC wants to
become educated there are some options available.Director of Student Activities Linda
Bayusik explained that the Student Senate approves what proposals are brought before them for events by clubs or students requiring funding from the Student !*.-6-.?# W513@# >%;5<"Z".53,1."# 1,,3# .)#bring a full proposal to the Student Senate explaining what the event is, dates, times, costs associated with the event, and other necessary info. The Student Senate then votes to approve or not approve,” said Bayusik.As for events where the school would
not have to pay the speaker or group, Assistant Director of Student Activities Kelly K. Hope and Bayusik work casebycase. >9,#=)5;3#",,#-0#-.#/."#-1#=-.+#.+,#*);;,7,@#Paperwork would be processed. We would see what it is and if the Events Center is )',1#&13#.+,1#.+,#".53,1.#&*.-6-.-,"#)0/*,#sponsors it,” said Bayusik._&?5"-:#4&3,#-.#*;,&(#.+&.#&1?#,6,1.Z
speaker that was trying to sell something or consisted of a bad message such as overthrowing the government would not come to HCC. Also the Events Center can host outside organizations that are not only for HCC students.When asked about cultural events be
ing at HCC, student Shaye Staurovsky said, “I’m sure they have them, but I never hear about them.” This problem has been addressed, as Hope has used flyers, word of mouth, and the calendar
to inform students.Indeed, culture has been in the plen
ty this semester, although Hope wanted students to know you need to look for events at the right time. “Student Life plans more activities and events at the beginning of each semester,” said Hope. For example, Welcome Weeks are held in the beginning of the fall and spring semesters. However, there are usually events that run every week, according to Bayusik.An etiquette program called “Who
Got Swag,” hosted by Debra Montalvo, also came to the school. On April 29 .+,# =)(:"+)'# =&"# +,;3# &.# I# '@4@J# &13#it focused on how to dress well for success. The AntiDefamation League also provided a civility and understanding workshop on Feb. 5 at 2 p.m., and on W,<@# G# &.# ESRIV# '@4@# 8&*+# =)(:"+)'#was 90 minutes.Hope added that there was a Black
History Month game show which had &# .5(1)5.#)0#IV# .)#I[#".53,1."@#K&""-6,#programing was also used which consisted of pictures and some reading in a place where students could see them, which was the glass walls in the Student Life Area. The passive programming was used for Black History Month, Irish American Month, and Passover.“The passive program has actually
worked well,” said Hope. “I have seen students outside of the office window stopping to look at the display and read the posters.”Some of the cultural events are re
vamped events that have run before, while others may be new. Either way, students have many choices when it comes to culture at HCC.
Cultural Events at HCC
Director of Student Activities Linda Bayusik
Photo by David Bayusik
Assistant Director of Student Activities Kelly K. Hope.
Photo courtesy of Ryan Farrington. Used with permission.
10 !"#$%"&' () ("4525.2,
BY LATISA PACHECOSTAFF WRITER
It was 8 a.m. when this guy inside the computer lab started blasting his music so loud that I could hear the lyrics
there was no way I could concentrate on my biology homework,” said Abigail Cabrera, a sophomore at HCC.Cabrera sits on the chairs next to the
".&00#)0/*,"#)1#.+,#",*)13#C))(#)0#_,&*)1#Hall to study. She wonders when the time will come where students will follow the rules and answer their phones outside the computer room.“Every time I go there, there are people
talking to their friends about their personal lives who got drunk over the weekend and got intimate these loud conversations are always next to me,” she said.Cabrera mentioned that there was
one instance when a student was watching a video online and laughing out loud; suddenly a frustrated women got up and shouted at the student to be quiet so that she could study.It was then that other students com
mented and agreed with the woman about the need for silence in the computer lab signifying a moment of victory.The signs are posted everywhere, out
side the door and inside on the wall of the computer room, all saying the same rules: No loud music, No eating, No streaming videos, music, etc... indicating that the computer lab should be respected.However, HCC junior Rashaad
Hawkins thinks “there are too many strict
rules.”Although not a student this semes
ter, he goes to the computer lab to create graphicdesign shirts. The only problem is, he likes to do this while playing music.“I do my homework with my music
playing, no matter where I am,” he said. It was his daily routine as a child.Hawkins attempted to justify his dis
obedience by saying, “No one wants to talk to someone with headphones on.”Sophomore Markysha Douglas agrees
with Hawkins that the rules are a bit strict, especially when it comes to streaming music.“As long as I have my headphones on
.+,1#=+?# -"1U.# -.# &;;)=,3cP# "+,# "&-3@# >].#
helps me focus when I’m listening to music.”Douglas said that she
wouldn’t play music in the classrooms because it’s “disrespectful to the teacher.”But why not show the
same respect for the rules )0#.+,#*)4'5.,(#;&<c“I use the computer lab
for music and for my assignments,” said student Elton Perry. His suggestion is to block the websites if the school doesn’t want students streaming music.This might seem like a
good idea, but blocking too much could affect students from using the computer ef
fectively for assignments.Senior ‘Rob’ Taylor doesn’t challenge
his distractions. “It’s easier to leave than say something,” he said.He, too, has heard rap music blasting
from headphones, phones going off and people talking loudly while he was trying to focus.Computer Lab Coordinator Sherry
Harris said she was unaware of the disruptive activities going on inside the Beacon Hall computer lab.d,.J#"+,#&33,3J#>".53,1."#+&6,#*)4,#.)#
my lab at the Lafayette Hall because of noise complaints in the other building.”Harris is all for supervision in the
computer lab, but “that would cost money and maybe a workstudy would be able to do the job.”Director of the Information Technol
ogy Department Anthony Vitola declined an interview regarding the topic.Clearly upset by the situation, he
spoke what he tried so hard to hold in: “The rules are obeyed by the competent students.”And although he makes the rules, he
“cannot enforce them because that is a job for the security team.”While I was present inside the Lafay
,..,# $&;;# *)4'5.,(# ;&<# )1#!'(-;# EH# &.# T#p.m., I experienced the same situation that occurs inside the Beacon Hall computer room: the need for a group of students to chat about everything besides their homework.The noise became louder and louder as
the printers kept going off and the whispering started to spread. The lab experience became uncomfortable and annoying and I became irritated.Although leaving is an option, where
,;",#*&1#=,#7)c#9+?#"+)5;3#=,#<,#'51ished for being mature college students with a better knowledge of respect for ).+,("#^#:1)=-17#(-7+.#0()4#=()17cIf this continues, this will no longer be
a school, but a frat house. Chased out by the loud and cantankerous students, constantly thinking of themselves.If only the staff hired by HCC could be
as brave as the woman who stood up and demanded silence, instead of leaving it in the hands of students.
Disruptions Inside the Computer Lab“Rules are Obeyed by Competent Students”
A student takes a phone call using his headphones.
Photo by Latisa Pacheco.
I’m Not Where I Want to BeBY ELIZABETH FIGUEROASENIOR STAFF WRITER
Housatonic is not the dream college where people desire to go. We may have goals and ambitions we
planned on accomplishing, but for some reason bumps in the road have set us back. HCC student Kimberly Cruz attended
Central Connecticut State University with a full scholarship. While at college she got pregnant by her highschool sweetheart. “I wanted to be this strong, powerful, independent woman with no kids traveling around the world and owning my own company,” said Cruz. Even though her son wasn’t a part of her plan, she was al
ways told that children are a blessing. 2+,# ;-0,#=,# ;-6,# -1# *&1#<,#6,(?#3-0/
cult, and as humans we set expectations for ourselves with a plan to excel. When walking on that straight and narrow path, a bump in the road can make us take a detour.For myself, HCC was the only option
for college due to poor grades in high school. I entered into this community college with an open mind to embrace all the positivity around me. I was planning on being in and out within two years. I thought I would be graduating from Housatonic with my associate’s degree -1# g)5(1&;-"4#<?#.+,#"'(-17#)0#SVEI@#Y?#mission was to attend a fouryear school with a full scholarship. Due to certain
requirements I won’t be graduating until 2014.Right now I am not content with where
I am in life. I want to be better and strive .)=&(3#�)5(^?,&(#51-6,("-.?@#].U"#3-0/*5;.#when you have a mindset and it doesn’t match up with what’s going on around you. It makes you unpleased and not want to settle. Many people don’t want to attend a community college. It’s not a big excitement you talk about with friends or 0&4-;?@#d)5#4&?# <,# -1# $%%# 0)(# *,(.&-1#reasons. It could be because a university wasn’t in your budget or personal things have happened that brought you here.Being at a community college may not
be that exciting for some, but everyone ",,4"#.)#<,#&.#$%%#0)(#&#"',*-/*#(,&")1@#
d)5#4&?#1).#<,#*)1.,1.#)1#=+,(,#?)5#&(,#right now but what will you do to make .+,#<,".#)0#-.c#A-1*,#]#=-;;#1).#<,#7(&35&.ing this year I will continue to work hard and stay focused on getting to a fouryear school and the accomplishment will be rewarding.One thing I learned is that when I’m
content, that means I am comfortable; and when I am comfortable, I get stuck in my repetitive lifestyle. I am very happy and thankful for the people I met at HCC and what I have learned here even though I’m not where I want to be. I envision something bigger to grow on different levels, and if HCC is where I have to be for a little while, I will do everything possible to complete it successfully.
f).#")4,#1,="#?)5#=&1.#*)6,(,3cLet us know!
Write to [email protected].
11!"#$%"&' () ("4525.2,
Security Guards Prove Their QualityBY KATELYN AVERYEDITOR
The security guards at HCC work hard to protect the school. The team also helps staff and work
".53?#".53,1."#<?#)',1-17#5'#)0/*,"@#A,curity guards can also be seen unlocking classrooms for the professors. Students can also see that they are safe.HCC student Jess Jennings believes
the security guards are approachable and a good part of HCC. “I believe they [the security guards] are all very nice. They’ll talk to you and everything if you take the time to start a conversation with them,” said Jennings.
Students are able to say hello to security as the guards walk through hallways, check stairwells and lounges, and make sure that everyone is safe.Head of security and Police Mas
ter Sergeant Christopher K. Gough has worked in his position for 10 years and has had a good experience so far. When asked if HCC students were respectful, Gough said “Very, Very. With a few exceptions that you get any place. We have a good relationship.”The good relationship does involve
asking permission, though. When asked if students can make chalk drawings on the courtyard sidewalk. Gough said they need permission.
Playing on the grass is always acceptable, though. “I love the warm weather because I love to watch the students play frisbee, hacky sack or football,” said Gough.Gough presented HCC’s Jeanne Clery
Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics, which showed HCC was on a low crime streak. Between 2009 and 2011, little crime had occurred; 2011 saw only four reports on campus. The incidences consisted of one sex offense (nonforcible), one drug abuse arrest, one drug abuse violation, and one weapon law violation.Some HCC classes are also taught at
Jonathan Law High School in Milford,
Conn. In 2011 some crime near that campus occurred: four sex offense nonforcible crimes, one liquor law arrest, and three drug abuse arrests were reported.Aside from these few crimes, HCC
students can rest assured they are safe, although if anyone is nervous while on campus Gough, wanted students to know security escorts are available.The garage and school are patrolled
during all working hours, but if a student really feels unsafe, Gough explained they are welcome to report anything. “We have a zero tolerance for violence, weapons, alcohol and drugs” said Gough.
Roving ReporterBY REBECCA LEGOUTESENIOR STAFF WRITER
Question:#9+&.#&(,#?)5(#7)&;"#0)(#.+,#"544,(c#]1#).+,(#=)(3"J#=+&.#-"#)1#?)5(#"544,(#<5*:,.#;-".c
>f)-17# .)# *)1*,(."J# .)# 7)#/"+-17J# .)#go somewhere tropical, hiking, camping and get another tattoo.” Becky Bok, Junior
Photo courtesy of Becky Bok, Jr. Photo by Rebecca Legoute.
“Be far away from school, and have COMPLETE FUN.” Carol Brooks, Senior
Photo courtesy of Esperancia Leger.
“Have my car by the summer. Go to a few strip clubs.” Esperancia Leger, Freshman
Photo by Rebecca Legoute.
“Get to Los Angeles for an electronic *)16,1.-)1"J#.+,#8I#A544-.@#W-13#&#"'-(-tual balance.” Jeremiah A. Louis
Photo by Rebecca Legoute.
“Travel to Machu Picchu, a ruin, an Incan or a Mayan ruin. My main objective is to make more money before going there. It is one of the seven wonders of the world and I have an Internet site to get up this summer. It has to do with health and wellness.” John Hernandez, Freshman
Photo by Rebecca Legoute.
“I go where the universe takes me even if it’s under a bridge.” John Vergara, Senior
Photo by Rebecca Legoute.
“My plan is to get a new job and work hard over the summer.” Jonathan Jason Gonzalez, Sophomore
Photo courtesy of Kedesha Ferguson.
“Relax, travel, work, might sign up for a summer class, and I really want to just enjoy my freedom.” Kedesha Ferguson, Freshman
Photo by Rebecca Legoute.
“Take a math class at HCC and get an A.” Samantha Delgado, Senior
Photo by Rebecca Legoute.
“Travel to Canada, Miami, B&<)(#`&?#K&(&3,#-1#i,=#d)(:@P# Nancy Barnaba, Freshman
12 !"#$%"&' () (678,(9(:28*78152;*28
Bringing the 90s Back: Fashion Takes Over
BY STEPHANIE CASTILLOSENIOR STAFF WRITER
Baggy clothing is comfortable to wear and used for lounging around, like in the early 90’s. But
recently its becoming more of a fashion statement throughout the urban communities. Boyfriend jeans and oversized tshirts are popularized: you see them in magazines, and women are paying more attention to whavt’s popular as opposed to what they prefer wearing. Why shop when you *&1# g5".# =,&(# ?)5(# <)?0(-,13U"# *;).+,"c#
This fashion trend can also be more affordable for women.Sasha Bedford, 21, a human resources
major, loves wearing her boyfriend’s oversized tshirts and says it’s a way to feel comfortable and also a hip way to dress. “I wear leggings and his tshirt because that’s what I feel most comfortable in,” said Bedford.Not only is Bedford able to be com
fortable, but she gets complimented at the same time. Stars like TLC, Rihanna, and Rita Ora are known for rocking an oversized tshirt and glamorizing it to perfec
tion. Ordinary people can do the same, or better. On the other hand, some students particularly men may feel that women dressing like men is a little off from the norm.“It’s a hot mess and not attractive for
women to wear baggy clothes. It doesn’t show that the person has selfrespect or is educated at all. I know bums that dress <,..,(#.+&1#.+&.JP#"&-3#h,1#L).511)#a(@J#I[J#a general studies major. Rotunno, as the class president, feels strongly about this fashion trend because it is not a way that he would want the school to be represent
ed, or in any professional career setting.Primarily in the 1990’s this oversized
fashion trend was seen a lot in music videos and out in the urban communities. Oversizing your wardrobe seemed to be the “it” factor, and many people followed the trend. Today you see this trend coming out on a broader scale, such as with Victoria Secret’s PINK section. They sell many oversized sweat pants and hoodies that are for women but are worn with a nonchalant yet glamorous appeal. Almost anyone can pull off the look, from older women to the younger generation.
arts & entertainmentarts & entertainmente
Murder $he Wrote“A Lifestyle Brand”
BY DANNY ALAMOSENIOR STAFF WRITER
Supreme, Elite Soles, The Unico , Obey and introducing Murder $he Wrote. Founded by CEO
Synques Jefferson, Murder $he Wrote is a streetwear brand that caters to empowering women. Jefferson’s vision is to have
a lifestyle brand that stands on its own in an industry which is dominated by male brands, streetwear. Not only does fashion interest her, but Murder $he Wrote consists of Jefferson’s takes on art, music, and lifestyle. Murder $he Wrote, M$W for short, is a mixture of dominating women, sex appeal, and equality for all. Jefferson /(".#;&51*+,3#Yj9#-1#.+,#0&;;#)0#SVEEJ#&13#ever since then she’s been a force of nature in the world of the streetwear competition.
Jefferson has since been involved in many collaborative events with other streetwear brands. From fashion shows, launch parties, social media hype and popup shops, Jefferson has established quite a few relationships with her peers. Jefferson wants M$W to become a universally known name, using social media to pro4).,#+,(#<(&13@#A+,#(,*,1.;?#+&3#&#SVEI#
"'(-17Z"544,(#;&51*+#'&(.?#&13#;&51*+,3#her M$W brand website, where consumers can shop online for her items.Sophomore student Grace Gutierrez, an
associate of Jefferson, says that she thinks it’s amazing for Jefferson to have her own brand. Gutierrez says that she feels proud to know someone that has chased her dreams and made it a reality. Gutierrez says unfortunately she hasn’t attended any of the M$W brand’s events, but based on
what she sees on the popular social media app Instagram, she needs to attend one as soon as possible.Jefferson stated that M$W is only go
ing to get bigger from here. M$W will be one of the most known, respected and worn streetwear brands in the world.Jefferson plans to expand M$W and to
promote further from her convenient area once she has designs that cater to every lifestyle and event. Right now Jefferson is
designing new pieces for her line that will be launched at some point in the fall. Jefferson said, ”I will become a known
entrepreneur in the fashion world, I will make my mark and I will make a statement.”Jefferson’s line at the moment consists
of graphic tees, beanie hats and sweatsuits, and she hopes to sooner than later make bottoms, different varieties of tops, accessories, shoes and outerwear.
Not just a name, but a LIFESTYLE.
Photo courtesy of Synques Jefferson.
To view or order M$W gear you can contact
Jefferson on Instagram at @murdershewrote
brand, on Twitter at @MSWGANG, on Tumblr at
mswgang.tumblr.com or on Instagram at
@Synques.
Directions for Student Graduation Evaluation Online MYCOMMNET
1. Sign on to your commnet account, then enter your NET ID and Password2. Click Student Tab, then Student Self Service3. Click HCC if Applicable4. Click Student Records, then Student Degree Evaluation5. Select Current term and What If Analysis6. Select Term you began and when you changed majors7. If earlier than Fall ‘02, select Fall ‘02 and click continue8. Select Program then continue76'8&,&20'5)#0'9-:%)'01&/'#+.9"010. Generate Request then submit11. Print General Requirements
Return to What If analysis to select another program to Evaluate
Areas designated as MET are completed
Areas NOT MET need to be completed, see an advisor for proper course instruction
13!"#$%"&' () (678,(9(:28*78152;*28
BY D.C. WEIDENFELLER
EDITOR IN CHIEF
The weather is getting warmer and for most of this that means summer vacations, or a course
to catch up before the fall semester. or maybe work picks up and it is simply a matter of a change of focus from a busy course load to 50 hour work weeks. But for the “Ghosts of Bridgeport,” as my dear friend Josh Brellis and I called them 35(-17# )5(# /(".# "+)(.;?# ;-6,3# &..,4'.# &.#/;417#)*54,1.(?#)1#.+,#+)4,;,""J#.+,#nights may get a little more tolerable climate wise but that does not mean things are any easier. If this piece gets you anger do something about it, don’t just sit around hoping somebody else will. Following this piece is a recent press release from Southwest Regional Mental Health Board and their May is Mental Health Month calender of events. Get involved and become a part of the solution.
† WHAT †A))1#.+,#/(".#6&1#'5;;"#5'#.)#.+,#",*
ond section of underpass and pulls to the "-3,@#A;)=;?#&.#/(".#=,#4)6,#.)=&(3#.+,#Honda mini van, then more and more. A young man and woman exit the vehicle and round to the back to open the hatch. They produce their small card table and two large coffee urns, 8 gallons each. Coffee has arrived, cream and sugar pre mixed, take it or leave it. With each cup )0#*)00,,#&#>f)3#_,#9-.+#d)5P#-"#7-6,1#freely with love. Today is even better; they brought the large cups, the tan and brown ones with pictures of little teacups and saucers on them. They also have tops too; keeps the coffee hotter longer. The line melts into an unsophisticated blob, and as each are served their share they mutter back to their spot and their belongings. Soon enough empty cups litter the sidewalk under the underpass. There -"#&1#-1C5D#)0#*-7&(,..,#<5."#&"#=,;;@Next to pull up is the old Subaru out
back. This time the crowd moves with a little more purpose and the unsophisticated blob forms almost at once. People begin to pack their bodies to get close to the center around the back of the short stout woman, owner of the car. It’s the bagel lady in her usual thick brown and tan striped knitted sweater and matching frumpy hat she is a favorite around. She '-*:"#5'#.+,#C&:,?#"=,&.#7))3"#0()4#;)cal bakeries and puts each one in a sandwich bag, and then into the banana boxes in the back of her car. She too, just like the coffee people, comes to the bridge every Sunday, a friendly familiar face, and a smile every Sunday. More and more *)00,,#*5'"#/13#&#+)4,#)1#.+,#"-3,=&;:J#kicked around underfoot.A larger Grumman delivery van with
GOD’S NEW FAITH MINISTRIES pulls up and the sophisticated blob turns into a maddening mob. The pastor steps out and greets with smiles, a tall well build black man, in a black suit and red tie. (When asked about the red tie, the answer never wavers like a builder, “A sobering symbol of the blood Christ shed for me” he is an admitted recovering alcoholic now the minister of his church) His wife accompanies him, also a pastor of a different church, she is more petite &13#=,;;# (,/1,3@#$,(#,?,"#".&(,#=,&(-;?#&<)5.X#.+-"#-"#.+,#/(".#.-4,#+,(,@#A+,#.(-,"#to fake a smile, and it shows to the trained eye, but here no one would notice, shit no one would care either way, real or not. We are used to that, even more we are used to be unnoticed and unseen. Ghosts among the living gathering in the, outskirts of the hood.The pastor sets up his table and puts
three large boxes from the back of the van while other members of his church scramble about the back organizing. The pastor quiets us down and says a short meaningful blessing, words that most of us can relate to, and then tells us of the blessings he has brought us from +-"# *+5(*+@# 2+,# /(".# <)D# *)1.&-1"# <)
logna and cheese sandwiches made by the older church day care program kids the day before, two to a bag. These usually get stashed away for later. The next <)D^&"")(.,3# C&6)("# )0# .+)",# -13-6-35&;#size bags of chips, and the third box are the little sandwich bags of homemade chocolate chip cookies. At the end of the table is cauldron of warmth, the chicken soup. Stacks of Styrofoam cups sit beside it, along with napkins and those cheap white plastic spoons. Steam escapes the pot, dancing up until it dissipates into nothing.Food stashes begin to form in the
backpacks of many, and many stand in line for another bowl of belly warming soup. A young boy emerges from the side door of the van and walks to the table. He is holding several boxes; one is placed by the legs of the table and the pastor, and one is also placed next to the coffee table. Three more are placed along the wall of the underpass, they are used as makeshift garbage cans, cups and spoons immediately begin to pile up, but still 4)(,#/13#.+,-(#=&?#.)#.+,#'&6,4,1.@
† WHY †We gather here under the John Street
underpass not just because there is nowhere else to go. We go because of a warming friendly smile that comes with a hot cup of coffee. We go because of a friendly smile goes a long way in our hearts coupled with a hot cup of coffee, or plate of food. These people come here to see us… to see us. That sums it up right there. Here we are seen. In fact here we are not just seen but we are looked at as people, human beings… equals that have somehow hit a rough patch in the sea. These people, these helpers of humanity see beyond the dirtsmeared clothing and overwhelming orders of urine and body odor. They see past the nonsensical ramblings of some as they walk through life alone in medicationinduced hazes, missing out on the both the amazements
of the world and the simplicities of daily living. They see the socially forgotten, the undesirables, those deemed hopeless with bleeding track marks up and down their arms. They understand, they see that the hope has been wiped clean from our souls, left to our own demise. Given just enough to survive, just enough to hang on. They see the organic living man and woman not their class or their '(-")1#(,*)(3J#"-D#/;,"#;)17@#2+,?#",,#5"J#and with a smile. Here we are not ghosts among the living, nor are we the poverty stricken, the mentally ill or the addicted. Here we are not the hopeless and the lost, here we are humans, and here we are real, even if just for a couple of hours, it means the world, because we see ourselves.
† HOW †With all our differences interweaved
together we are still one single live feed of humanity. It is they who do not bother to listen. It is those who stereotype and give false testimony about a people who gone unnoticed. They spread fear and lies in hopes of saving a fucking buck, though behavior is greatly similar on both sides of the social status boulevard. Little to they know that our social falling is nondiscriminating and will bind &1?)1,# =-.+-1# -."# C,"+;,""# 7(&"'# -1# &1#instant. The line that separates our road is but wire thin. How we get here is irrelevant to us, it only matters to them. How is the level to which they regard us, how is the reasoning and excuse used to shrug our issues to the cool back burner. How we train ourselves to cope with the daily pains and ordeals is something one cannot effectively explain. It differs greatly from any culture shock the Grand Olde United States of America can hand you. There is no controlled experiment, no number of visits to John Street or captured photographs to give the true sense, essence or spirit of a Sunday spent under the John Street Underpass.
The Ghosts Will Walk Part Two
14 !"#$%"&' () (<7.=>*,
BY SAM ROSOFFEDITOR
David Livingston walks around his classroom meticulously paying attention and giving directions to
each student’s artwork.The HCC art department needed a
"*5;'.5(,# -1".(5*.)(# 0)(# -."# "'(-17# SVEI#class. In search of a professor who was capable of demonstrating both knowledge and ability to create art from numerous obg,*."J#.+,#i,=#d)(:#&(.-".#=&"#0)513@`&6-3#B-6-17".)1J#IVJ#=-.+#&1#,D+-<-
tion record that extends six years, won 0)5(.+#';&*,#'(-N,# 0()4#.+,#A*+&C,(#f&;;,(?U"#l9+&.#-"#A5".&-1&<-;-.?cU#i,(6)5"# &<)5.# +-"# /(".# ",4,".,(# &.#
HCC, the professor said, “I would like to stay at Housatonic Community College and inspire students.”“I want my students to develop the abil
ity to think visually and critically about
art. They will make art by hand, gain motivation and discover something new.”W)(# +-"# /(".# .-4,# +,(,# -1# .+,# *;&""
rooms, Livingston is doing quite well. “David brings a wealth of knowledge
and experience to his position as an instructor,” said Robbin Zella, the director of the Housatonic Museum of Art. “He is an excellent teacher and has
worked for the museum in the Peer Docent Program engaging young students through the study of our art collection.” Students were able to ask questions rather than stating facts._)(1# &13# (&-",3# -1# i,=# d)(:# %-.?J#
B-6-17".)1#*(,&.,3#+-"#/(".#&(."#&13#*(&0.#project from construction paper cutouts of Sesame Street characters when he was I@He enjoyed reading comic books as
a child and tried to emulate the illustrations. His love of art grew out of such experiences.
“I always loved to draw,” Livingston said. “I studied at the Art Student’s League drawing live models and decided that I wanted to pursue art professionally in college.”He received his
bachelor’s in Studio Art from Kenyon College and had his /(".# &(.# 3-"';&?,3#two years later at ‘Come Play With m"U#-1#_()):;?1J#idJ#while working on his Masters in Fine Arts, from Pratt Institute.“Through my
work I get new ideas,” he said, smiling. By creating >*)4';,D# /75(,"# -1#content and form,” he evolved as an artist.Professor Liv
ingston’s charisma and ‘hip’ personality allows him to relate to his students and
gets them excited and interested about art.He seeks to inspire and motivate stu
dents to do what they thought was impossible because of their lack of training.HCC Freshman Joshua Rodriguez said,
“I never thought I would have the potential to do the art for this class, but I became creative.”His favorite project was made out of
clay and based on “The Gates of Hell.”“We had to think dark how ‘hell’
would be like and how we pictured it and turn it into a sculpture,” he said.Rodrigues said other students should
take sculpture as an art elective. Even without experience, like himself, “it will help them grow as an artistic individual.”HCC student Kadidra Felix, shares a
similar experience for the“The Gates of Hell” project. She was surprised at how openminded she became.“Because of my religion I was skepti
cal, but I was able to express a different side of me,” she said.“I want him to stick around for semes
.,("#.)#*)4,@#]#.+-1:#".53,1."#=-;;#<,1,/.#from his class, especially in the mornings instead of a math class sculpture is way more relaxing.”John Favret, the Chair of the Art De
partment who gave Livingston a job for the semester had no response to whether the professor’s job at HCC would become permanent.However, he mentioned “David Liv
ingston is a very good instructor. His students respond well to him and they seem to enjoy the sculpture class.” Livingston currently has artwork dis
played at the HCC Museum for the faculty &(.#"+)=#&13#)1#+-"#=,<"-.,R#+..'[email protected] wormlike sculptures are hand
sewn and stuffed with fabric: wool, polyester or synthetic fabric. “They are meant to be carried, but
are designed to be unwieldy and burdensome,” he said. “When I perform in public with them,
they challenge me physically as I struggle to carry them.”He evxplained, “they are symbols of
the greedy global capitalist system and the role I play in it... an investigation of the way in which my internal psychology has been shaped by this system.”Unsure of his future at HCC, Livings
ton sees himself continuing to make threedimensional objects that he can use for an audience in a performance.
HCC Alumnus Gives Back to the Community
BY RACHEL KULIKOWSKISENIOR STAFF WRITER
HCC contains a wide variety of professors; from full time to adjunct faculty. Most of these teachers
continue their employment here every semester some a lot longer than others. Professor Grant Clifford Roti is full
professor of english at HCC. Colleges he received degrees from include State Uni6,("-.?#)0#i,=#d)(:# n!;<&1?oJ#m%eiiJ#and the University of Illinois.Roti started his teaching career here
back before HCC was even located in
Bridgeport. What may come as a surprise .)#&#;).#)0#".53,1."#-"#.+&.#=+,1#$%%#/(".#opened its doors back in the late 1960’s it was located in Stratford. The school had multiple locations used for classes. As a result of this, students and teachers drove or hitchhiked in order to arrive at the different locations in which classes were held. Roti recalls, “I would have a car full of my books and two or three students.”Currently Roti teaches about four
classes at a time, in the fall and spring semesters. Some of the classes he instructs include English 101, 102, British Literature, and World Literature. Roti is pleased about the classes he currently teaches. He
explains; “I get to teach them over and over and over again which I really enjoy because you can take different poems or different pieces of literature each semester, and if I were at a fouryear school sometimes you get to teach your real interest once every two, three, four years.”Roti has been been instructing at HCC
for about 42 years. He says he could retire, but explains; “I enjoy doing it, I am always virtually a workaholic so I actually enjoy teaching the 101’s and the 102’s and many people just get burned out.” He also likes the fact that there is such a wide variety of students at the school especially all the age differences. “Quite often you
get those older people who will bring in something that’s rather fascinating,” Roti points out.Jennifer Avery was one of Roti’s stu
dents. Avery recalls, “I thought he came off as friendly and approachable.” She was a student in his English 102 class and explains, “He gave us (the students) good questions to write essays for; the questions really made me think more about the literature.” ]1#.+-"#3&?#&13#&7,#-.#-"#3-0/*5;.#.)#/13#
someone who is passionate about their career. However, it is refreshing to see that Roti is someone who still takes joy in his career even 42 years into it.
Why He Stays
David Livingston next to his artworkPhoto by Latisa Pacheco.
David Livingston next to his artworkPhoto by Latisa Pacheco.
HCC Library Contact Information(203) 3325070
www.hcc.commnet.edu/library
15HORIZONS
MARGARET WATT, EXECUTIVE DIRECTORSOUTHWEST REGIONAL MENTAL HEALTH BOARD1 PARK STREET, NORWALK, CT 06851(203) 8401187
SOUTHWEST REGIONAL MENTAL HEALTH BOARD PROMOTES MAY IS MENTAL HEALTH MONTH
NORWALK—MAY 1, 2013. MYTH: MENTAL ILLNESS DOES NOT AFFECT ME. FACT: ALMOST ONE IN FIVE AMERICANS SUFFERS FROM MENTAL ILLNESS, ACCORDING TO THE SUBSTANCE ABUSE AND MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES ADMINISTRATION. RECOVERY IS POSSIBLE, YET TWOTHIRDS OF THOSE SUFFERING GO WITHOUT TREATMENT DUE TO STIGMA AND DIFFICULTY IN ACCESSING CARE.
FOR OVER 50 YEARS, MAY HAS BEEN DESIGNATED AS MENTAL HEALTH MONTH. TO PROMOTE AWARENESS, THE SOUTHWEST REGIONAL MENTAL HEALTH BOARD (SWRMHB) HAS PARTNERED WITH LOCAL AGENCIES TO DEVELOP A SERIES OF FREE EVENTS THROUGHOUT FAIRFIELD COUNTY. HOSPITALS, COMMUNITY HEALTH PROVIDERS, AND LIBRARIES ARE HOSTING MENTAL HEALTH SCREENINGS, LECTURES, AND OTHER LOCAL EVENTS.
AMONG THE FEATURED PUBLIC EVENTS THIS WEEK ARE A FREE ANXIETY SCREENING AT GREENWICH HOSPITAL, A DEPRESSION SCREENING AT NORWALK COMMUNITY COLLEGE (OPEN TO NCC STUDENTS), AN INFORMATION TABLE AT NORWALK HOSPITAL, AND A CONFERENCE ON “THE STRESSED BRAIN AND ITS EFFECTS ON MENTAL AND PHYSICAL HEALTH” IN FAIRFIELD.
SWRMHB WILL AIR ITS SHORT DOCUMENTARY SERIES ON CABLE CHANNEL 88 EACH TUESDAY AT 6PM, BEGINNING WITH “CHILDREN AND MENTAL HEALTH” ON MAY 7.
THE COMPLETE LISTING OF EVENTS IS AVAILABLE AT THE SOUTHWEST REGIONAL MENTAL HEALTH BOARD WEBSITE, WWW.SWRMHB.ORG, ALONG WITH OTHER IMPORTANT RESOURCES FOR MENTAL HEALTH. BASED IN NORWALK, SWRMHB IS A CITIZENS’ PLANNING AND ADVOCACY COUNCIL THAT PARTNERS WITH LOCAL COMMUNITIES TO IMPROVE MENTAL HEALTH AND ADDICTION SERVICES IN SOUTHWESTERN CONNECTICUT. SWRMHB IS SUPPORTED BY STATE, TOWN, AND COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTIONS.
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT WWW.SWRMHB.ORGMENTAL HEALTH CALENDER ON PAGE 16
16 HORIZONS