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Grace MacMillian Ebbtide Reporter What is the role of student government? What are the priorities for use of student government funds? Last Thursday the Shoreline Publications Board met with student body President Shaun Scott to decide if "Adrenaline!" would be sanctioned as the official magazine of SCC's Student Government. Scott, along with Laura Giamoyris, student body secretary; and Marquita Prinzing, student body senator, has put together a political magazine featuring articles on issues like communism, Ebonics, and rappers' disrespect of women. Their intention, as stated in issue one, is "to make students more aware of social issues in the world, the community and on campus...and to reveal how those issues are relevant to our lives." "Adrenaline!" features a note from Scott on page two: "We cannot and will not be held accountable for anything we say. Under George Bush's Patriot Act, you will be labeled a terrorist for criticizing us, since we are the Student Government, a makeshift version of the federal government. Happy reading!" Most members of the Publications Board echoed the sentiment that a politically provocative magazine could inspire the student body to get involved, and encourage other voices. But, there were concerns as well. Norma Goldstein, dean of humanities and advising Shoreline students for over 20 years, was concerned about a magazine's appropriateness as a voice of student government. Is it a proper use of government funds, and does it reflect the primary purpose of student government? Does it reflect the concerns of all students? Would it be better published as an alternative magazine separate from student government? Scott spoke to this concern by saying that he believes he was voted student body President precisely because of his views; who he is cannot be separated from what he does. Scott voiced skepticism that the magazine needed an advisor to ensure that the content met with accepted canons of journalism. Karen Rathe, advisor for the Ebbtide, warned that lawsuits could and should be avoided with proper advising. Rathe also expressed her sincere appreciation for the quality of the "Adrenaline!" writers and her hopes that they would collaborate with and participate as writers for the Ebbtide. She also pointed out that the student government has in the past, and should have now, a regular voice in the school newspaper. The lone voice speaking to budget concerns was Sarah Amos, also a member of the Board who was not able to attend. Her point was that in a time of budget cuts, does it make sense to have another publication? After an hour of debate and discussion the vote was taken. Four of the eight voting members were not present, two of the remaining voting members were also members of student government, and one was part of the Ebbtide staff. The Board voted to recognize "Adrenaline!" as the official magazine of SCC Student Government. However, before this publication can continue, it must find an appropriate and knowledgeable advisor. "Adrenaline!" Editor-in-Chief, Shaun Scott, published two magazines while attending Shorewood High School. © 2003 Shoreline Community College™ |