Classroom Participation Reaps Awards . . .
Five EBC students, who were nominated by their instructors as "Hardest Working," enjoyed an evening at Jerry Uht Ballpark recently. The students and their guests attended the June 20th game between the Erie SeaWolves and the Bowie (Maryland) Baysox. It was a special opportunity for Erie Business Center as the "Sharpshooter Sponsor" for the Erie SeaWolves 2003 season.

Instructors were asked in a nomination form, "Who among all of your students is consistently reading all of the chapters, taking notes, asking questions and participating in class?" In answer to that question, they identified their hardest working students and provided a brief summary of why the individuals should be recognized. The nominees' names were entered into a drawing, and the students chosen enjoyed watching the game from the comfort of the SeaWolves Den private suite, with snacks and soft drinks.

Students attending the ballpark event were Julie Mickel, Anela Krdzalic, Amy Huffman, Mike Quinn and Clarissa Baker. EBC instructor Roach Hewitt attended as well. Congratulations to EBC's "Hardest Working Students."

Continuous Training and Enthusiasm: Marketer Shares Experience
Marilyn Lechner, Director of Marketing for North Coast Travel in Erie, spoke to EBC's Marketing Class in mid-June. Lechner was previously associated with Homeplace in Cleveland and Elizabeth Arden Cosmetics in New York City.

Coinciding with the class curriculum for the week, Lechner focused on the unique strategies that can be used to market services. Students in the class were quite surprised when the speaker approached each of them before beginning her presentation to shake their hands, ask their names and inquire about their future goals. This served as a great example of the importance of "knowing your customer."

As the "voice" of the FLY ERIE Campaign, Lechner discussed that organization's need to identify the potential market in our area and focus advertising on that particular target group. She also emphasized the need for continuous training even after graduation and the importance of enthusiasm in the workplace.

Judge Cunningham "Holds Court" At EBC
Erie County Judge William "Rusty" Cunningham spoke to EBC students, faculty and staff in June.

Judge Cunningham opened with an explanation of the differences between criminal and civil crimes and how individuals are charged in each case. He then walked the audience through the trial process--from jury selection and the rendering of a verdict to sentencing and appeals.

In his comments, Judge Cunningham covered the right to a speedy trial, the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony, the option of a bench trial versus a jury trial, and the scheduling of criminal and civil trials in the Erie court system.

EBC audience members were very interested in the judge's presentations. Questions posed to him included: What factors are considered when attorneys are choosing jury members? Does the defendant have a say in jury selection? What is the role of a witness at a preliminary hearing? Would someone involved in the legal field be excluded from serving on a jury simply because of his/her occupation?

Judge Cunningham received his bachelor's degree from Allegheny College and his Juris Doctor degree from the University of Pittsburgh. From 1981 to 1987, Attorney Cunningham practiced law with the firm of Orton, Joyce and Dunlavey, P.C. In 1987, he was elected District Attorney of Erie County, and in 1991, was reelected to a second term. In 1996, Mr. Cunningham became a Judge of the Court of Common Pleas. In 2000, he was elected by his peers to serve as President Judge.

May Speaker Series: National Physical Fitness and Sports Month
If you don't use it, you lose it! ... Physical Fitness and Overall Health was May's topic for the second presentation in the 2003 Speaker Series.

The May 27th evening guest speaker was Rachel Cheeseman, founder and head instructor of Street Smart Self-Defense (www.streetsmart.50megs.com). She demonstrated adrenal stress training, which focuses on the importance of breathing and staying in control of one's emotions in a threatening situation. Rachel discussed the importance of finding a fitness class designed around your fitness level. She suggested observing a class and instructor for a proper fit. She also advised individuals to pay attention to proper body alignment when exercising to prevent injuries.

Kathy Iorio, executive director of Hamot Wellness Center, challenged students, faculty and staff on the morning of May 28th to Eat Smart, Move More. The Eat Smart, Move More program is currently being promoted by the Erie County Department of Health (www.ecdh.org/esmm). Kathy had the group up and moving in the "Better Together Exercise" and then again in an interactive scale participation showing the group how different parts of your day and surroundings can enhance your mood and how people around you can encourage you to shine or simply be "energy suckers." Volunteering students received mini-massages from Sylvie Houde-Kemery, certified massage therapist with Hamot Wellness Center.

A big thank you to our guests for providing the inspiration to start moving MORE!! And special thanks to Kathy Iorio and the Hamot Wellness Center for inviting EBC students, faculty and staff to work out at the facility.

EBC Holds 117th Commencement Exercises
More than 150 Erie Business Center students received associate in specialized business (ASB) degrees or diplomas at EBC's spring commencement ceremony. The event was held Sunday, April 27, 2003, at the Warner Theatre, downtown Erie.

Erie County Judge Stephanie Domitrovich gave the commencement address.

Valedictorian Martin Guelcher also addressed graduating students, their families and friends as well as EBC faculty and administration. A double major in the network administrator and computer information specialist programs, Guelcher graduated summa cum laude from Erie Business Center.

David Durst, a 1978 EBC graduate, performed a vocal selection for the ceremony, and EBC student Brandon Kent provided musical accompaniment.