Fall 2015 Issue #6	The Crier Is Sponsored, In Part, By Student Association	December , 7 2015
How Did CCC Change Your Life: The Catalyst
By: Felicia LaLomia
.For many people, Corning Community College has been a stepping stone, one stride on the way to the workplace. And for Mark LaLomia, a CCC alum, this was no different. In fact, for him, CCC was the catalyst, the motivation that changed the course of his life.
Mark was not a very good student in high school and couldn't afford much when it came to college. He didn't know what he wanted to do nor did he think he was able to get into many other colleges with his grades. To figure out what path he wanted to take, keep his current employment, and keep debt down, Mark chose CCC. This was his “low risk” option for going to school, considering all the factors.
While entering CCC, Mark made a few choices.
First, he would be a good student. He knew he had it in him but had never made the conscious decision before to apply himself. Second, he would make college his main priority. As all of his friends partied during the week and weekend, he focused on school. While all of his friends had to petition to continue through to the second semester, Mark made good grades. He set up his schedule
so that all his classes were in the morning and that way, after, he would have study time to complete the homework right away when it was fresh in his mind.
College did not come without its difficulties, however. English was a class that Mark especially struggled with. He had never applied himself in high school, and therefore did not develop the skills needed to write a basic essay. Lacking in punctuation and vocabulary, Mark took extra classes provided by CCC in order to beef those up and become the well versed writer he is today. Corning Community College gave Mark the skill set to not only be able to do better in that English class, but also succeed with writing experience in the working world.
As Mark continued to apply himself through his years at CCC and his grades continued to be good, opportunities were made available to him that otherwise would not have been. In fall of 1986, Mark transferred to Binghamton University. For him, CCC was the stepping stone towards bigger possibilities in
his life that he could not have had if it wasn't for Corning Community College. This college helped him to develop the skills he was missing when he graduated high school. Not to mention the completely life altering change that Corning was the place he met his future wife.
For Mark LaLomia, Corning Community College was the catalyst, the motivation he needed to grow as a student and a person. Life comes in steps: graduating high school was one step, going to CCC was another step, getting into Binghamton was another step. And through that catalyst, he was able to become a success.
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THE CRIER
FALL 2015, ISSUE #6
Article Opinion: “Impeachment”
By: Carol Carter
I was taken aback at the boldly flagged "Impeachment" article. After carefully reading the article, I realized that it was about a student trustee who had not lived up to his commitment to the college. Why he was not asked to resign instead of "impeached" would have been more interesting to me.
I did not feel the public flogging merited the kind of double-spaced, three-page spread. What had he done that was so egregious? A little less drama and a more balanced reporting would have been much appreciated. To say at the end that "we are glad we can use this to offer compassionate love to another student and be humbled with him," was worthless consolation by the time you read this diatribe.
If you had nothing else to report for the Crier, I could see why you put this piece in, to take up space. But I would have wanted something less inflammatory and less provocative than to damage someone's reputation.
I do feel for this student, whoever he may be. I hope any student who volunteers for CCC positions understand that we value their contributions. It is important to take risks in life, to go out of your comfort zone. I just hope this doesn't stop those who may be unsure of how well they will do. I also wish this student well. He did not deserve to be devalued in this manner.
Advisors Note:
By: Advisors Erin Wilburn, Christine Atkins & Maarit Clay
A recent front-page article in the Crier garnered attention and controversy across campus, and with good reason. The impeachment of a member of student government is indeed a serious matter, and worthy of campus-wide attention. And as the paper of record for the institution, it is the responsibility of the Crier staff to ensure that such events are covered fully and fairly. In the weeks following, we have heard criticism about the coverage provided and the form it took.
As a student-produced newspaper, The Crier enjoys freedom from institutional censorship, and as its advisors, we support our students as they explore the frontiers of reporting and opinion. We encourage students to stretch and grow as writers, while keeping in mind journalistic standards such as accuracy, fairness, humanity, and accountability. We remind our writers that their words reflect on their peers, their school, and themselves. The paper is a learning experience for many of our students, and as such we understand that their development is an ongoing process.
We will continue to stand behind our student reporters and support them as they write about what matters on campus and in their lives. We also know that their positions may not be those with which everyone agrees, and to that end we encourage others to write as well. The Crier welcomes dissenting opinions, and any student is welcome to submit an article at any time.
“I still believe that if your aim is to change the world, journalism is a more immediate short-term weapon.” - Tom Stoppard, author and playwright
Advisors Erin Wilburn, Christine Atkins & Maarit Clay
FALL 2015, ISSUE #6
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Student Government Constitution Changes:
By: Tim LeRoyer
There have been changes proposed to the Student Government Constitution. We were presented a large packet of the revised Constitution, as created by SAEB. However, this was a very lengthy document with no identification markers letting us know what the changes were without spending hours/days of our life figuring it out. This made it very difficult, and quite unrealistic that any member would have the time and/or ability to identify any changes, or understand what those changes meant. This, unfortunately communicated some unintended feelings of unease and confusion towards SAEB among certain members of SAGA; feelings that SAEB was trying to push through this agenda without a clear consensus. When inquiry was made regarding this, SAEB clearly stated this was not their intention. Secondly, at the next SAGA meeting with the assembly still without a clear, concise list of proposed changes, a motion was finally made to provide the members with an itemized list of changes. This motion was overwhelmingly approved to increase the discussion time, and to finally provide SAGA with a list of what’s going on so that we could make informed decisions and engage
in healthy debate. This reporter is still unsure why the material wasn’t presented in a straightforward manner in the first place.
SAGA met on Dec. 1st. The changes called for a dissolution of the House of Representatives, through which each club is represented in SAGA, given a vote, and in a larger way allows for a more diverse representation of the student body. A new assembly for the clubs’ ‘liaisons’, formerly known as ‘representatives’, would have no voting rights, and would meet only 3 times a semester. They would have no true control over voicing their concerns as students, for their clubs, or the larger student populace who is less than interested in politics, but still cares about the college and their individual rights. They would instead participate in discussion, networking, teambuilding, and leadership development. This task of representing the students would fall only onto the shoulders of SAEB and Senate, under this new proposal. So, in essence, this change would get rid of half the government and only allow people who were actively interested in politics to have their voice heard through the vote.
These changes, as well as how the Senate positions are filled when empty (most of them are at the beginning of Fall semester), grants potentially strong and unchecked powers to the Executive branch. SAGA normally ratifies, via vote, those running for Senate. This is because most of the seats aren’t filled in the Spring semester during normal elections. With the changes proposed, instead of SAGA (House of Reps, Senate, and SAEB meeting together) choosing new Senators, it would just be SAEB and Senate. That alone isn’t a broad representation of the student populace. However, if there are very few people in Senate, (which often happens), SAEB would be choosing almost everyone. Not exactly a well-balanced government. These changes would, in essence, allow future SAEB members to simply vote in their buddies if they wanted, and the larger student populace would have little say in the matter.
These two issues caused the strong opposition among a number of SAGA members against the larger changes. Certain concerns that were brought up was a desire to keep voting rights for House Representatives, for the
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Student Government Constitution Changes:
By: Tim LeRoyer
House to still attend and participate in some capacity in government, and also the lack of address to proper balancing of power within the government. As of right now, the changes would have Senate and SAEB legislating and governing alone. This is both unwise, and some would say accidently unethical.
Now, while this does look quite bad; SAEB is proposing making big changes to the Constitution which would grant it a lot of potentially unchecked power in the future; this was neither the intent, nor purpose of the proposed changes. Having spoken at length with the Student Body President, and with other members of SAEB, the intent of the changes came from voiced concerns in the past from SAGA members, especially Club Representatives, about frequency of meetings, obligations of duties, and the restrictions upon clubs to grow, learn, and accomplish tasks. The purpose of the changes was to address those concerns, to streamline the process, and minimize mandatory participation for lackluster reps. It cannot be understated how much time and effort the SAEB has put into working on the Constitution to improve it, and that this
process is still in the works between SAEB and SAGA at large. It is also is important to note that some of the changes made, such as reducing paperwork, bureaucratic obstacles, and monetary limitations seems to be very good changes.
To sum up: There are some good changes suggested, such as less bureaucracy, paperwork, and ability to get access to more money for fun events for clubs and students. There are also some bad changes, such as less diversity in government, less student representation, and clubs being sidelined. If students want to make big changes or have their voice heard, these changes in government would limit that ability.
However, this mentality of catering to those who would lower the bar, however well-intentioned and service-focused, was fundamentally flawed. It failed to look into the future and anticipate the implications of a good deal of the changes proposed. While the discussion, and brainstorming, will continue through Winter Break, and a vote will not come to the table until next semester, this Reporter and Representative of Student Government can rest assured that all parties in-
volved, most of all SAEB, will be open to all ideas and concerns. All of SAGA will continue to work tirelessly to do what is best for our current, and future student populace. Let us hope that we all continue to do so with a desire for increased wisdom and cooperation towards a common goal of governmental balance, and fairness towards clubs and individuals. Let us strive to do what is best and wisest, rather than what is easiest and most popular.
If any person, Student, Faculty, or Staff wishes to submit ideas/concerns/articles regarding this issue, please do so at ccccrier@gmail.com
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FALL 2015, ISSUE #6
The Coolness of Sky:
By: Dr. Christine Atkins
The other day I found myself walking past my colleague Sky Moss’s classroom on the way to my own and I had a sad but definite realization: all of my efforts over the past few years to outdo him when it comes to fashion have failed. I am using this opportunity to publicly declare that Sky Moss is a more stylish and snappier dresser than I could ever claim to be.
It’s not that I haven’t tried to outshine Sky. In fact, every day before class I contemplate my outfit, building it carefully from the shoe up according to the old adage that “the shoe makes the outfit.” I’ve stood for far more moments than I’d care to admit contemplating stripes versus plaids, assessing daring color combinations, and scoping out the coolest pair of New Balance or Campers online. I’ve scoured the sale racks at Urban Outfitters, made trips to the Uniqlo at New York City, and tried out countless pairs of Warby Parkers.
Yet there sits Sky--kicking back in his suede bucks, green pants, and sharp tie-looking like someone New York Times’ fashion photographer Bill Cunningham just chased after on his bike. I’m not saying that my efforts have all been in vain. Students often let me know when I’ve made a successful fashion choice. Nonetheless, the day I walked by Sky wearing the outfit you see pictured here, I knew it was time to wave the white flag.
Holiday Jokes
By: Crier Staff
Q. What do snowmen wear on their heads? A. Ice caps.
Q. What is a snowman’s favorite lunch?
A. An Ice-berger!
Q. How does Santa take pictures?
A. With his North Pole-aroid.
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THE CRIER
FALL 2015, ISSUE #6
What’s the Deal with GMOs?
By: Robert Koble
No, a GMO won’t kill you, but many people believe that they can and that they are detrimental to our health. Here is some information about them so that you can make your own informed decision.
What exactly is a GMO? Good question! A GMO is a Genetically Modified Organism, which is a living being that has had its genes altered artificially through genetic engineering. The goal of genetic engineering is to change the genes of an organism to make it more desirable for human use. For example, in rural Africa, many people suffer from Vitamin A deficiency. To combat this, scientists developed a rice variety that has had a carrot gene inserted into its genes leading to the new rice variety, Golden Rice, which contains more Vitamin A.
The distribution of Golden Rice, however, has been hung up in government approvals for at least a decade.
One of the most famous examples of a GMO is Roundup-Ready corn, which is resistant to an herbicide called Roundup. Scientists modified a gene in corn to produce a protein that differs from the natural protein by 2 amino acids, meaning that there is a 99.3% similarity be-
tween the modified protein and the natural protein. Since the modified corn is resistant to Roundup, farmers growing Roundup-Ready corn only have to spray one herbicide to kill unwanted weeds instead of a cocktail of herbicides.
In addition to plants, genetic engineers use GMO technology on animals such as mice, chicken, cows, and dogs. The most
famous animal example is Dolly the sheep. This sheep was made from its parent sheep to be an exact replica. Unfortunately, Dolly passed away shortly after its creation. But the ramifications for medical advancements based on this research are endless.
GMOs greatly benefit society and are safe for human consumption. No credible, peer-reviewed study has shown that
GMOs negatively impact the nutrition of foods. Contrary to what some people will claim, they will not give you cancer and they do not cause obesity.
GMOs greatly benefit society, but as with any technology, we must regulate its use. One issue with GMOs is that large farms plant vast amounts of genetically modified crops and this causes a decrease in biodiversity. These monocultures are extremely susceptible to pathogens and could result in widespread loss of crops. However, a monoculture farming system is not unique to GMO crops and is a disadvantage to current farming practices.
In conclusion, genetic engineering allows humans to manipulate animals and plants for our own uses and is an integral part of our society. We are facing an astronomical increase in population. By 2050, it is predicted that the human population will eclipse 9 billion. How do we feed everybody? One powerful tool to combat mass malnutrition and starvation is Genetically Modified Organisms. I understand this is a highly contentious topic. If you want to talk more, I welcome you to contact me at rkoble@corning-cc.edn.
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FALL 2015, ISSUE #6
#PrayForParis
By: Megan Pradichith
Since the dawn of human history, violence has plagued the world. Regardless of whether it was motivated by revenge, retribution, or ideology (political and religious), violence brought nothing but suffering and despair. With every violence comes a loss of life while survivors are left traumatized for life.
On November 13th, the world was shocked to learn of a string of coordinated terrorist attacks ravaging the city of Paris by three groups of men. The first attack took place during the international football match at the Stade de France, where three suicide bombing took place with President Francois Hollande in attendance (though thankfully, he was not injure d). Me anwhile, terrorists launched a mass shooting attack on the restaurants, cafes, and even the Bataclan theater where 1,500 people were attending a concert held by American rock band Eagles of Metal Death. The overall attack left 129 people dead and ISIS claimed responsibility for them. Seven of directly responsible for the attacks, including its ringleader Abdel-hamid Abaaoud, were either killed by police or died as the result of suicide bombing at the scene. The surviving two, Salah Abdeslam and Mohamed Abrini, remain at large—with their residences Brussels, Belgium at lockdown.
Instead of cowering in fear, the world got together in solidarity for Paris, its victims, and its survivors. While the world leaders, politicians and celebrities offered their condolence people on social media used #PrayforParis while changing their avatar into a shade of the French flag. We also have to keep in mind of the violence people have endured from ISIS’s wrath. Not just the bombing of Russia’s Metrojet Flight 9268, which killed
all 224 people onboard over northern Sanai on October 31st, but the people who lived in the Middle East in areas that have been invaded by them that have to live through it every day. And now with France and Russia began launching air-strikes in retaliation, it has become apparent that will be more violence to come in the future. And considering the number of threats being	made
against other countries and major cities, it is no surprise.
Eventually, we would have to pray for the world.
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THE CRIER
FALL 2015, ISSUE #6
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