InFocus: A semester of Cavaliers, caffeine, comedians

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Features

Author Sherman Alexie visiting

Several programs and initiatives are planned in the upcoming semester to promote diversity and cultural understanding in the student body. The college is hosting a presentation by Sherman Alexie, award winning author of the “The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian,” which will soon become a large part of the curriculum for many English classes.
Alexie’s book was chosen by teachers of the English department this year as the common read for all Composition classes as well as several others. More than 1,200 students will read it.
“One reason we chose this book would be that it models good writing,” Thomas Reynolds, Associate Professor of English, said. “It’s a terrific book; it’s very funny, as well as serious.”
The presentation will occur Wednesday, Oct. 19, and is free and open to the public. It will focus on Alexie’s development as a writer and the early life he mirrors in his book, which discusses deep themes of assimilation, racism, social class, poverty, bullying, and community.
“We felt that our students could relate to this book in a lot of ways on a personal level,” Reynolds said.

Homegrown comedian Rob Riggle to put on a show

One event that has students particularly excited is a visit from comedian Rob Riggle. Best known for his roles in the movies “The Hangover” and “The Other Guys,” Riggle also worked as a correspondent for Comedy Central’s “The Daily Show.”
Something that sets Riggle apart from other comedians is his military service. He is currently ranked a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Marine Corps Reserve.
Riggle also has a local connection here: he is a graduate of Shawnee Mission South.
“One of the agents I’ve worked with in the past floated the name Rob Riggle, and I did some research on him. He’s from Overland Park and he went to KU, and he has a real connection to the area,” Jake Akehurst, Student Activities Manager, said.
Riggle’s comedy show on Saturday, Oct. 8 is expected to consist of PG-13 or R-rated material. Tickets are on sale for $10.
“We really want students to get a lower price and to encourage students to check out the Carlsen Center and Yardley Hall and know that we have these state of the art theaters on campus,” Akehurst said.

Two theater productions to look forward to

The Music and Theatre Department is preparing for several shows this fall. Two plays will come to the stage, “Equus,” by Peter Shaffer, and “Anatomy of Gray,” by James Leonard.
“Two years ago when we planned to do this show I thought, ‘That might be kind of fun to direct,’” Jim Lane, Chair of Music and Theatre, said regarding “Equus.”
Premiering in early October, “Equus” is an intense, psychological play which will be Lane’s first experience directing.
Coming in mid November, “Anatomy of Gray” is the story of June, a girl growing up in Gray, Indiana, who prays for a healer to come to town.
“I think what’s intriguing about this play is that there’s a terrific discussion of science versus religion, and it’s couched in a children’s story for adults,” said Beate Pettigrew, Artistic Coordinator for the Theatre department.
Auditions are open to any members of the community with a memorized, contemporary monologue Aug. 29th and 30th.
If you’re looking for a concert, the Music department is preparing for a fall lineup of Concert Band, Choir, and Jazz Nights scheduled at the Polsky Theatre, as well as their third Jazz Winterlude in January.
“We have a lot of new students in the program this year so I am excited for every class and performance,” said Ron Stinson, Professor of Music. “It is always exciting to see new students grow and mature in their education.”

Opportunity to grow green thumb

Students will have an opportunity to help out with planting, weeding, harvesting, and other activities on the campus farm this Sept. 16.
The Center for Sustainability is pleased to invite students to put on some work clothes and join them in tending to the farm on campus, which provides fresh produce to Dining Services and the Culinary department, as well as a classroom to the Sustainable Agriculture Certificate students.
“I’m excited about people coming out and seeing that there’s a farm on campus and that they can take part in it, and become more engaged in the culture of sustainability,” Kim Criner, Student Sustainability Affairs Coordinator, said.
Anyone who chooses to participate will be encouraged to work at his own pace. Lunch will be provided.
If you are interested or have questions, please RSVP to sustainability@jccc.edu.

Diversity discourse in September

Preston Washington, a Cherokee Freedman, will be giving a presentation about his roots and genealogy Tuesday, Sept. 20.
Washington traced his family lineage back to slaves on the Trail of Tears.
“He can go back to Nancy Ward, who was an American Revolutionary War Patriot recognized by the Daughters of the American Revolution, and then he has this black slave heritage,” Cathy Lawrenz, Adjunct Professor of Psychology, said. “It’s such an interesting combination of cultures.”
At the reception for the event, many representatives from various genealogical groups will be available to answer questions and share their information.
“I never really realized that Indians owned slaves, and the U.S. government paid for them to take their slaves with them to Oklahoma,” Lawrenz said. “It’s such an interesting, diverse group of cultures he comes from.”

Compiled by Mackenzie Clark.

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