AI Summary:
Student Government Elections and Constitutional Changes
One of the main stories in this issue details changes to the Student Senate election process, influenced by a new constitution aimed at improving representation.
- In previous years, all senators were elected at-large, meaning there was no proportional representation for different programs.
- Under the new system, senators are elected based on student enrollment in each division:
- Career Education students elect their own senators.
- General Education students elect a separate group of representatives.
- This system aims to ensure that each program has fair representation.
The elections are scheduled for October 4th, and students are encouraged to run for office or apply for executive board positions through the Student Activities Office. The goal is to increase participation and engagement in student government.
Abortion Debate: A Personal Perspective and Editorial Series
A controversial feature in this issue is a personal account of a student’s abortion experience, kicking off a series of articles on pregnancy and its alternatives.
- The student describes the emotional and physical toll of the procedure, from the decision-making process to the medical procedure itself.
- She grapples with moral and ethical questions, reflecting on whether she made the right decision.
- The article highlights societal stigma, including judgment from peers and internalized guilt.
Additionally, the campus nurse, Peggy Rooney, RN, contributes an editorial emphasizing the importance of informed choices. She acknowledges the complexity of abortion decisions, stating:
“The only free choice is an informed one.”
The series will continue in future editions, covering adoption, parenting, and support resources for pregnant students.
Campus Construction: Building 31 Nears Completion
Another major update focuses on the near-completion of Building 31, which will primarily house general education classrooms.
- Expected to be ready by mid-October, the new facility aims to relieve classroom overcrowding and accommodate growing student enrollment.
- The Dental Assistant and Dental Hygiene programs will be located in a newly finished wing of the building.
A photo feature showcases the construction progress, giving students a glimpse into new learning spaces on campus.
Financial Aid and Career Opportunities
The Career Placement Office has partnered with Farmers Elevator Mutual Insurance Company (FEMIC) to bring on-campus job recruitment to students.
- FEMIC representatives will be interviewing students for jobs in business, clerical work, accounting, and data processing.
- Interested students can schedule interviews through the Placement Office.
Additionally, students are reminded about upcoming ACT test dates and the availability of financial aid through Basic Grants, which can provide up to $1,050 per student.
School Spirit and Student Involvement
The editorial page highlights positive aspects of student life at DMACC, particularly student government efforts to improve campus facilities.
- The Student Senate allocated $15,000 to the Student Emergency Loan Fund, with an additional $5,000 from bookstore profits.
- Another $2,000 was donated to help Ankeny residents affected by a tornado, demonstrating community involvement beyond campus.
The editorial argues that while DMACC lacks traditional school spirit through athletics, students show engagement through leadership, fundraising, and social projects.
Urban Center Growth and Community Impact
A feature story highlights the rapid expansion of DMACC’s Urban Center, which serves minority and low-income students in Des Moines.
- Enrollment is increasing, leading to a planned relocation to Sabin School to accommodate more students and offer better facilities.
- The Urban Center’s mission is to bridge the education gap and help students build skills for career advancement.
- A staff-led effort is underway to improve outreach and student support services.
This move is seen as critical for continuing the center’s success and ensuring better access to education for underserved communities.
Sports and Campus Activities
Intramural Sports Program Expands
For the first time, DMACC is introducing a Women’s Intramural Sports program, alongside the existing Men’s Intramural Sports.
- Men’s sports include:
- Softball, basketball, flag football, and volleyball.
- Women’s sports include:
- Softball, basketball, and volleyball.
Additionally, intramural tournaments in bowling, billiards, ping-pong, and tennis are being considered.
Drake University Football Spotlight
A sports feature highlights Drake University’s standout wide receiver, Mike Murphy, who is emerging as a key player.
- Murphy has caught nine passes in two games, averaging 12.5 yards per catch.
- His ability to make tough catches under pressure makes him one of Drake’s most promising players this season.
AAU Walk-Run Competition at DMACC
DMACC will host an AAU-sanctioned walk-run competition on September 28th.
- The event will include Open, High School, Junior High, and Women’s divisions.
- The race will take place on the main campus loop, with students and community members encouraged to participate.
Parking Policy Updates and Traffic Regulations
Campus parking regulations have been revised, including:
- Annual parking registration fees increasing from $1 per quarter to $3 per year.
- New designated staff and visitor parking zones, restricting Lot K in front of Building 24 to staff only.
- A new appeals process for parking violations, though students are limited to one appeal per violation unless a split decision occurs.
Additionally, DMACC Security has installed pedestrian safety signs near parking lot entrances to prevent accidents.
Humor, Entertainment, and Opinion Pieces
Grease Monkey Stereotypes
A humorous column explores stereotypes about auto mechanics students at DMACC, describing them as:
- Obsessed with cars, pool, and Playboy magazine.
- Driving loud, unreliable muscle cars.
- Swearing excessively and betting on pool games in the student lounge.
The lighthearted piece pokes fun at common perceptions of mechanics students, while acknowledging their deep knowledge of cars.
Film Screening: Alfred Hitchcock’s North by Northwest
A campus film screening of Hitchcock’s classic thriller North by Northwest is scheduled for September 27th, with tickets priced at 50 cents for students with an activity fee, and $1 for those without.
Live Music Event: “Snorz’n Suds” Party
A live music event called “Snorz’n Suds” will take place on October 4th, featuring unlimited beer and entertainment.
- Tickets are $3.90 in advance only, and the event is expected to draw a large crowd.
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