Deaf-hearing relations activists visit College
Transcription
Deaf-hearing relations activists visit College
Double dose of opera Explosion of talent Students showcase skills during celebration of Hispanic culture. TCNJ Lyric Theatre treats theater-goers to two Seymour Barab comic operas. See Arts & Entertainment, page 17 See Features, page 11 signal-online.net The College of New Jersey Student Newspaper since 1885 November 12, 2008 No. 11. Vol. CXXIX. Campus goes red to raise AIDS awareness By Kristen Lord Features Editor Tim Lee / Photo Assistant From lectures to talent shows, Prism painted the campus red last week to support the annual AIDS Awareness Week. “We wanted the students to notice all the red around campus,” Elaine Smolen, president of Prism, said. “So even if they didnʼt know about any of the events planned, at least the red piqued their interest.” Those eating in Eickhoff Hall the night of Nov. 5 saw the groupʼs promotion firsthand with a red-themed dinner. Prism co-sponsored the week along with 22 other student organizations. The week was packed with events promoting AIDS awareness, including a movie screening of “Philadelphia” and a lecture titled “Living and Loving in a World with AIDS,” with guest speaker Elaine Pasqua. Prism held an AIDS memorial service Nov. 7 to remember those who died from the disease. Deaf-hearing relations activists visit College By Katie Ryan Correspondent Members of the local deaf community joined students to attend a presentation given by the two founding members of Discovering Deaf World (DDW), a recently developed national association that encourages the development of deaf organizations across the globe. The Nov. 5 presentation, which was co-sponsored by the Deaf Hearing Connection and Kappa Delta Pi education honor society, was given by DDW founders Christy Smith and Dave Justice. The presentation detailed the trip Smith and Justice took to eight countries to promote deafhearing relations and assist in the development of stronger foreign deaf communities. “It is part of the deaf world and deaf responsibilities to get help out to deaf people across the world,” Smith said. Smith, a deaf woman who used American Sign Language throughout the presentation, was a contestant on the CBS reality show “Survivor: The Amazon” in 2003. She and Justice came up with the idea for DDW in 2007 with the goal of traveling the world in search of foreign deaf programs. After fundraising for a year, the two set off on a backpacking journey that took them to New Zealand, China, India, Australia and Thailand, among other countries. While spending six to eight weeks in each country, Smith and Justice traveled to both major cities and small villages. Throughout this journey, they met with 101 deaf organizations, according to Justice. see DDW page 2 see PRISM page 13 Mike Smith / Photo Assistant It was the best week ever The ʻBest Week Ever Tourʼ stopped at the College Nov. 7. The show featured Chuck Nice, a regular on the TV show, and occasional guests Sherrod Small and Judah Friedlander. The comedians talked about everything from race and the recent election, to what separates the rich from the poor, to why men have to get married. See Arts & Entertainment, page 16. Report suggests alcohol policy changes By Nancy Sai Staff Writer Graphic by Kelly Duncan / News Editor Rhetorical or hortatory? Professor classifies political leaders’ personalities. See page 2 The Commission on the Prevention of Alcohol Abuse (CPAA) recently published a report containing four recommendations for the College. The recommendations all relate to the Collegeʼs alcohol policy. According to the report, the first recommendation given by the Commission was to form a “Healthy Campus Task Force,” which will assess alcohol abuse on campus. It will also be charged with the implementation of programs and policies to prevent alcohol and drug abuse. The Commission also suggested that the College play a greater role in managing the student environment. This includes changing student attitudes, protecting students from drug and alco- Trans Awareness Week Prism funded to educate on transgender issues. See page 2 Networking knowledge Students learn business etiquette during dinner. See page 3 hol abuse and acting quickly to treat students who suffer from drug and alcohol addiction. The Commission also recommended making revisions to the Collegeʼs alcohol policy. Finally, the CPAA advised the College to involve “students and parents, faculty and staff, and alumni in prevention planning.” see CPAA page 3 INSIDE Editorials, Et Cetera Opinions Features Arts & Entertainment Funstuff Sports 7 9 11 16 22 32 page 2 The Signal November 12, 2008 SGA designates ‘Freedom Week’ Trans Awareness By Arti Patel Staff Writer The Student Government Association (SGA) passed a resolution at its Nov. 5 meeting recommending that Nov. 9 through 11 be identified as Freedom Week and be permanently placed on the official College calendar. President George W. Bush declared Nov. 9 World Freedom Day in 2001 to commemorate the fall of the Berlin Wall and the liberation of Central and Eastern Europe from communism. The author of this resolution, Michael Peters, senator of Legal and Governmental Affairs, likened the observation of this federally recognized date to Flag Day and Constitution Day in that it commemorates an aspect of American history. “It’s not a mandated thing,” Peters said. “It’s sort of a recognition thing (and) up to the College to put it on the calendar and recognize it.” The resolution was passed unanimously. SGA members discussed the possibility of greater security measures on campus due to the string of recent automobile thefts. Matthew Daley, sophomore class president, who runs the College’s online poll “The Pulse,” said polling results showed students feel strongly that cameras should be added to high-traffic parking areas. “Students said they would feel more safe if their cars were being watched at the nighttime,” Daley said. A new campus organization, Devoted to Reaching Expectations and Mentoring Students (DREAMS), received official on-campus recognition. President Kristina Avisado and vice president Beth Dorrity represented the education program centered on children in nearby urban communities. “(We are) urban education advocates working with the AVID Tutoring Program and the GetSet Tutor/Mentor Program,” Avisado said. “We want to help people from urban backgrounds give back to their communities.” DREAMS, created about a month ago by students, works in conjunction with the entire School of Education and the five-year master’s program at the College. Membership is open to students of all majors, and the club currently has 20 active members. “As far as being a mentor, it’s all about you as an individual,” Evette Barnes, senator of Business, said. Teacher evaluation forms will be updated in a “semester-long process” Brian Skwarek, senator of Academic Affairs, said. The new system may be implemented as soon as the end of next semester. “It’s a really big deal because the old forms don’t fit with the new (student administration) system so, it will definitely be changed,” Skwarek said. “It might be made an online process.” week By Nate Currie Staff Writer The Student Finance Board (SFB) allocated $350 to Prism, the College’s gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender association, for Trans Awareness Week. According to the official proposal, the purpose of the week-long event is to “raise campus awareness about the difficulties facing the transgender and transsexual community.” The campus-wide event is scheduled for Nov. 10. SFB allocated $256.50 to the Art Students Association (ASA) to host Open Mic Night. According to ASA’s proposal, the purpose of the event “is to expose the College campus to not only the visual arts but also the musical arts, as well.” Students will be able to exhibit both their musical and artistic talents as easels, drawing pads and various arts supplies will be available at the Nov. 14 activity in Mike Smith / Photo Assistant Prof explores personality types Gary Woodward, professor of communication studies, presented the semester’s fourth colloquium at the Faculty Senate meeting on Nov. 5. The lecture, “Finding Ourselves in Others: Communication Style and the Rhetorical Personality,” explored key dispositions and outcomes of the rhetorical personality. The four major dispositions include an inclination to engage others in conversation, a high self-monitoring capability, a large capacity for identification and other distinct directions. “When these temperaments cluster in one individual, you get specific outcomes,” Woodward said. “Each are discrete dispositions in character design, but the rhetorical personality is unique in that one person has a mixture of the four.” These rhetorical outcomes consist of a heightened sense of agency toward helping others, finding comfort in discrepant roles and motivation to seek rhetorical transcendence, he said. “Rhetorical transcendence is kind of the nirvana in rhetorical studies,” Woodward said. The rhetorical personality is a combination of “disposition, opportunity and context,” making it extremely rare. However, individuals have a tendency to be more developed in certain areas and are likely to have situational reactions along the lines of the rhetorical outcomes. The two major classifications of per- sonality styles are hortatory and rhetorical. A hortatory person issues demands on individuals or commands people to do things, whereas a true person of rhetoric targets issues that unify individuals. “Different people use different styles for purposeful reason,” Woodward said. “President George (W.) Bush has a hortatory personality, while Bill Clinton is an example of a person with a rhetorical personality.” The author of five successful books, including the college text “Persuasion and Influence in Modern Life,” Woodward is expanding rhetorical analysis into areas of gender and culture, while seeking inspiration from the films of James L. Brooks and the common life experiences most people share in his upcoming sixth literary work. The topic of linguistic style propelled the conversation toward political leaders. Throughout the presentation, Woodward showed clips of politicians and discussed their mannerisms as a means of putting faces to these communication styles and personality traits. The discussion touched on former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, former U.S. President Bill Clinton, President George W. Bush and former Vice President Hubert Humphrey. Woodward used the keys of a rhetorical personality, context and opportunity to discuss new President-elect Barack Obama. “Obama changes (speech) styles depending on his audience,” Woodward said. “He has a vast repertoire of diverse roles he can play to help support his cause.” Holman Hall. SFB tabled a $1032.75 request by the French Club for lack of information and substantial price quotes regarding its annual soiree. SFB denied a $338.40 request by College Union Board (CUB) to host a “movie night” in which the film “21” would be screened. According to the request, the film “ties in education and mathematics into the real world.” However, SFB members who had previously screened the film said it is more entertaining than educational. The board ultimately decided that since the film would not be applicable or beneficial to student’s lives, the request was denied. On Oct. 29, clubs Ed 2010 and the Trentones got budget approval. The French Club and CUB were awarded $325 and Black Student Union was awarded $2,238. DDW / Smith and Justice describe travels Gary Woodward, professor of communication studies, discusses different communication styles and personalities in front of the Faculty Senate. By Arti Patel Staff Writer approved Mike Smith / Photo Assistant Christy Smith discusses treatment of the deaf community worldwide. continued from page 1 The development of programs within each country was dramatically different, Smith said. In Nepal, deaf members of the community are assumed to be dumb and incapable of learning. “‘I love my daughter, but she is a mistake from God.’ That is what most people think over there,” Justice said. In comparison, Smith and Justice found Japan offered a highly developed deaf community. “In Japan, you have deaf people working front line jobs, working with customers,” Smith said. “In America, how often do you see deaf people working in businesses with customers?” A video clip demonstrating the interaction between a deaf worker and a customer pointed out what deaf people can achieve if they are given the opportunity. “Communication was never a problem when they were given that chance,” Justice said. The presentation was only the second Smith and Justice have given since their return to the United States. The next phase of DDW includes editing more than 100 hours of footage and translating it into 20 languages to create a marketable DVD, as well as seeking sponsorship and funding to provide long-term support for the program. Smith and Justice also plan to continue to travel the globe to discover more stories of deaf empowerment and create further connections with deaf programs in countries other than the eight they have already visited. “It is our future goal that eight will be 50, will be 100 in the next few decades,” Justice said. Throughout their journey, Smith and Justice’s mission to educate communities about deaf people was reinforced. “We believe that a lot of oppression happens in deaf communities, basically born from ignorance,” Smith said. During their trip to Cambodia, they met a deaf teenage girl who had recently been employed by a café that encourages the assimilation of deaf people. Before obtaining this job, the girl’s father had often beat her, simply because she was in the way, Justice said. Now, she is the only person in her family who earns a steady income. “How the tables have turned with a little opportunity,” Justice said. Although a recently formed organization, DDW counts more than 2,000 subscribers to their online newsletter, which further details Smith and Justice’s trip and provides information about the future goals of the organization. For more information on DDW or Smith and Justice’s trip, visit discoveringdeafworlds.com. November 12, 2008 The Signal page 3 Knock, knock, who’s there? CPAA / College looks to By Diana Bubser Nation & World Editor On Sunday Nov. 2 at 3:30 a.m., Campus Police was dispatched to Travers Hall on report of an unknown person banging repeatedly on several doors and attempting to enter rooms. Upon arrival, the officer met with the person in the elevator lobby. The officer asked what was going on, and the student said he had been locked out of his room and his girlfriend’s room, which he said was on the same floor. He was unable to produce identification, which he said was locked in his room. The student smelled strongly of alcohol and said he attended a Halloween costume party and consumed at least five or six cups of beer. At this time, Lions’ EMS and Residential Education and Housing staff evaluated him and he was advised of the College’s quiet hour rules and the possible ramifications of a disorderly person or harassment complaint. There is no further information at this time. ... Campus Police was dispatched to Holman Hall on Saturday, Nov. 1 at 9:10 a.m. on a report of the glass of a vending machine being broken. Upon arrival, the officer met with an employee of Building Services, who said he entered the building and noticed the broken glass. Upon closer inspection of the vending machine, the officer observed all the glass was broken from the machine, though the machine was still stocked with snacks. The officer immediately placed all the snacks into a bag and stored it in the Campus Police headquarters property room for safekeeping. There is no further information at this time. .. On Saturday, Nov. 1 at 1:27 a.m., Campus Police was dispatched to the Travers/Wolfe kitchen on report of a theft. The Sodexo manager said two Sodexo employees removed food items from the T/W kitchen on Oct. 31. One had taken food valued at $19.10 and the other had taken $23.40 worth of food. Later in the day, she reported the items were recovered and returned to her office. There is no further information at this time. ... On Nov. 1 at 1:25 p.m., an officer met with a student at Campus Police headquarters. The student said she had locked up her bicycle at Brower Student Center on Oct. 20. When she returned to get her bicycle on Oct. 23, she discovered it was missing. The officer advised her to check other locations on campus to ensure her bike was not locked up elsewhere. The search yielded no results. Diana Bubser can be reached at [email protected]. future of alcohol policy continued from page 1 policies based on the commission’s findings. “I can already see movement in terms “The proposed policy is winding of the administrative response, specifi- its way through governance and will cally in President Gitenstein’s Healthy be presented to the Board of Trustees Campus Initiative, as well as the revi- for action at its December meeting,” sions of the alcohol Norfleet said. and other drug policy According to that are taking place “Hopefully over time, Woodward, to this semester,” Mark the College can become increase student Woodford, commisvoices in the recomsion chair and pro- completely acculturated mendations, CPAA fessor of counseling in an atmosphere that student members education, said. informal promotes such mutual conducted CPAA, which surveys in Brower was established responsibility, and the Student Center, February 2007 by punitive reactions to Travers/Wolfe halls Beth Paul, vice and Eickhoff Hall. provost, and James excessive drinking and The Commission Norfleet, vice pres- other drug use will be also conducted a ident of Student review of their recvery minimal.” Affairs, was charged ommendations to with recommending affirm they reflectNora Wentworth ed the “best practo the College how to address alcohol Student member of CPAA tices” from research issues on campus done on minimizing and how to reduce alcohol abuse. dangerous drinking. Sub-committees The Commission’s members include were formed to investigate how to students, faculty, staff, alumni and increase alcohol-free events at the parents. College. “I believe that this policy will be “The Commission’s recommendations effective because it pays attention to clearly help us to continue to enhance the student and the culture in which we our healthy community,” Paul said. live,” Nora Wentworth, student member Wentworth said she finds it comof CPAA, said. forting that the faculty and staff at the “If the students are provided with College are placing students’ health information to make healthy decisions first. She said, “Hopefully over time, and (have) the support and guidance of the College can become completely the school to make healthy and smart acculturated in an atmosphere that decisions, then we will,” she said. promotes such mutual responsibility, According to Norfleet, the office of and the punitive reactions to excessive Student Affairs has already begun to drinking and other drug use will be very update the College’s alcohol and drug minimal.” Students learn how to dine with class Dining Out in Professional Style teaches business etiquette By Roxanne Neumaier Staff Writer Students learned about business etiquette and networking at Dining Out in Professional Style, sponsored by the office of Career Services on Wednesday, Nov. 5. “I expect to expand my networking capabilities and further develop my interpersonal and interviewing skills,” Karen Nici, freshman accounting major, said. Dressed in business attire, students impressed potential employers and sponsors. “I’m extremely honored and very pleased to each of you for joining us this evening,” James Chambers, associate director of Career Services, said. “You all look very lovely.” The auditorium in Brower Student Center was transformed into a business dinner setting. Tables with linens, centerpieces and silverwear were serviced by waiters in suits. “This is one of my most favorite annual events because I get to see you the way you look tonight, dressed all pro- fessional,” James Norfleet, vice president of Student Affairs, said. “This is my eighth etiquette dinner and I always walk away learning something.” Ann Marie Sabbath, the founder of At East Inc., guided the dinner and lesson. At Ease is a firm specializing in domestic and international etiquette programs. “It’s best to have a meal after a business dinner because the focus is never on the food,” Sabbath said. Sabbath went on to teach the students about silverwear and the proper way to eat, using a salad to demonstrate. The main course was an artichoke- and parmesanstuffed chicken breast, roasted broccoli spears and rice pilaf and apple tart for dessert. The discussion was open and had ample audience participation. After the dinner, door prizes were announced, and every student left with a gift bag provided by the sponsor at each table. “I really enjoyed the dinner,” Grace Chun, freshman business major, said. “I felt like I got a lot out of it.” Tim Lee / Photo Assistant Students learned proper dining etiquette at Dining Out in Professional Style last Wednesday, sponsored by the office of Career Services. page 4 The Signal November 12, 2008 Nation & World November 12, 2008 The Signal page 5 Churches reflect on Obama election RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — Jubilation, pride and relief permeated pews and pulpits at predominantly black churches across the country on the first Sunday after Barack Obamaʼs election, with congregrants blowing horns, waving American flags and raising their hands to the heavens. “God has vindicated the black folk,” the Rev. Shirley Caesar-Williams said as a member of her Raleigh congregation, Mount Calvary Word of Faith Church, brandished a flag and another marched among the pews blowing a ramʼs horn. “Too long weʼve been at the bottom of the totem pole, but he has vindicated us, hallelujah,” the Grammy-winning gospel singer cried. “I donʼt know about you, but I donʼt have nothing to put my head down for, praise God. Because when I look toward Washington, D.C., we got a new family coming in. We got a new family coming in. And you know what? They look like us. Amen, amen. They look like us.” In the historically black New York City neighborhood of Harlem, Obama buttons and T-shirts were as prevalent in the pews as colorful plumed hats, while in a church in the former capital of the Confederacy, a young girl handled a newspaper with a photo of Obama and the headline, “Mr. President.” At Los Angelesʼ oldest black church, ushers circulated through the aisles with boxes of tissues as men and women, young and old, wept openly and unabashedly at the fall of the nationʼs last great racial barrier. And on the day that the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. famously called “the most segregated day of the week,” black and white Christian clergy members asked God to give Obama the wisdom and strength to lead the country out of what many consider a wilderness of despair and gloom. At Hungary Road Baptist Church in a working-class suburb of Richmond, Va., the service was part celebration, part history lesson, led by a pastor who had felt the sting of the Jim Crow South. The Rev. J. Rayfield Vines Jr., pastor of the predominantly black congregation, paused briefly as he recalled the indignities he endured but did not bow to while growing up in Suffolk, Va. “I was there when you had to ride in the back of the bus,” Vines said under a simple cross illuminated by AP Photo Worshippers leave the Hungary Road Baptist Church after services at the church in Richmond, Va., Sunday. eight light bulbs. “I was there when you went to the department store and you couldnʼt try on the clothes. I was there when they had a colored toilet and a white toilet.” The pastor said he shared his humiliations Sunday to help give those “who had not tasted the bitterness of segregation.” Inside Harlemʼs Abyssinian Baptist Church, member Sheila Chestnut, 61, proudly wore a rhinestone Obama pin on her suit lapel. “I am so happy,” she said. “I cried so much. I never thought that in this lifetime I would live to see an African-American become president of these United States.” When the Rev. Calvin Butts invited the congregation to stand up “and give God praise for the election,” several hundred churchgoers rose as one, lifted their hands and gave a sustained cheer, then chanted, “Yes we can! Yes we can!” At Apostolic Church of God on Chicagoʼs South Side, less than two miles from Obamaʼs home, jubilant Sunday services were peppered with references to the election and calls to be grateful for his victory. “We thank the Lord for this second Sunday (in November) after the first Tuesday,” Byron Brazier said to resounding applause and cheers from the mostly black congregation. “This is a wonderful time to be alive.” Protests sweep across Calif. on post-Prop 8 Sunday News Bits LOS ANGELES (AP) — On the first Sunday after a gay marriage ban passed in California, activists rallied in defiance, including hundreds of protesters outside an Orange County megachurch whose pastor brought Barack Obama and John McCain together last summer for a “faith forum.” About 300 gay-rights advocates fanned out along sidewalks leading to Saddleback Church in Lake Forest to voice their anger of the churchʼs support of Proposition 8, a constitutional amendment approved by voters Nov. 4 that overturns a state Supreme Court decision in May legalizing same-sex unions. Ed Todeschini, a Human Rights Campaign volunteer, accused Saddleback in particular of helping propagate what he called misinformation about the Supreme Court ruling, including that gay marriage would have to be taught to kindergarteners. A message seeking comment left at the churchʼs main office, which was closed Sunday, was not immediately returned. “They told such obvious lies. They used their lies to deceive the public,” Todeschini said of the church, which gained national attention in August when its pastor, Rick Warren, brought Obama and McCain together to discuss their religious faith. The two candidates embraced during an often-contentious presidential campaign. Todeschini said Sundayʼs rally was peaceful, with demonstrators waving placards with slogans including “Equality for all” and “Shame on you.” The amendment was passed last week with 52 percent of the vote, and backlash swept across California on Sunday after In a record bailout of a private company, on Monday the government provided a new $150 billion financial-rescue package to troubled insurance giant American International Group, including $40 billion for partial ownership. An 8-year-old boy faces two counts of premeditated murder in the shooting death of his father and a friend. AP Photo People protest outside the Saddleback Church on Sunday in Lake Forest, Calif. days of protests. In Oakland, a large protest at the cityʼs Mormon temple led the California Highway Patrol to close two highway ramps to ensure pedestrian safety. Protest organizers said they hoped to tone down the anger that has characterized some previous demonstrations. “Our intent is not to disturb churchgoers,” organizer Tim DeBenedictis said in a statement. “Our goal is to mend fences and build bridges so that all Californians can achieve marriage equality under the law.” The pastor of the 4,000-member All Saints Church in Pasadena spoke out against Proposition 8, calling the religious communityʼs support of it “embarrassing.” The church announced while it could no longer legally marry same-sex couples, it would continue blessing gay civil unions. “Itʼs very unfortunate and embarrassing that the (Christian religion) is in large part responsible for this act of bigotry,” the Rev. Ed Bacon said after his sermon. In Sacramento, a protest at the state Capitol was boisterous but peaceful as speakers led the crowd in noisy chants. Protesters waved rainbow flags, a symbol of the gay rights movement, and “No on 8” signs as police watched from the side. Archaeologists discovered a 2,000-year-old gold earring beneath a parking lot next to the walls of Jerusalemʼs old city. President-elect Barack Obamaʼs advisers are quietly crafting a proposal to ship dozens, if not hundreds, of imprisoned terrorism suspects to the United States to face criminal trials. Information from APExchange.com page 6 The Signal November 12, 2008 November 12, 2008 The Signal page 7 Editorial The most wonderful time of the year Itʼs that time of year again. The stress piles on, you worry about long waits, getting everything done in time and getting exactly what you want. Yep, itʼs registration week. Weʼve all been through it, sitting at our computers at some ungodly hour watching TESS crawl as we nervously await the fate of next semesterʼs schedule. You hope that there isnʼt another junior with 87.56 credits trying to get the last open spot left in the one tess.tcnj.edu class that for some strange reason, everyone all of a Underclassmen will undoubtedly be relieved once TESS is replaced by the new system, sudden wants to take. erasing many class registration hassles. You bite your nails, awaiting a sign that you finally got into that mythology class everyone raves about, while anxiously scanning the reviews on ratemyprofessor.com. You bite your lip, hoping youʼve finally fulfilled your Liberal Learning requirements in time for graduation, dreading the conversation between your parents where you tell them you need to take a summer gender • Goldendoodle course. • Beagle Of course you donʼt get the classes you need and send the inevitable follow-up e-mails to your professors, • Mutt begging them to sign you into the class. • Beethoven The bottom line? Registration sucks. cast your vote @ Luckily for those of us who wonʼt be graduating in signal-online.net May, the new, yet-to-be-named Student Administration system is scheduled to debut in March 2009. Next November 6 Results: yearʼs incoming freshmen will know of TESS in name only. How did the emergency alert At least, thatʼs according to several Signal articles system perform? written about the topic in the past few years. We reported that the new system would have a back button, • 45% I was adequately warned of the an auditing feature for anxious juniors and seniors and shooting 24-hour access. • 36% The message could have come sooner Of course we appreciate the Collegeʼs effort, albeit • 19% I didn’t sign up painstakingly slow, to eradicate the ridiculously creaky and outdated TESS. But, weʼll believe it when we see it. Hereʼs hoping that this yearʼs round of registration blues will be our last. The Weekly Poll: What kind of puppy should the Obamas get? signal-online.net Telephone: Production Rm - (609) 771-2424 Business Office - (609) 771-2499 Fax: (609) 771-3433 E-mail: [email protected] Mailing Address: The Signal c/o Brower Student Center The College of New Jersey P.O. Box 7718 Ewing, NJ 08628-0718 Quotes of the Week “I’ve heard this is a really good school — it’s really tough, right? But... The College of New Jersey — on paper, it sounds like the dumbest school in the nation.” — Sherrod Small, ‘Best Week Ever’ visiting comic Editorial Offices Young man (or woman) WRITE FOR THE S-I-G-N-A-L! Editorial Content Unsigned editorial opinions are those of the Editorial Board, which consists of the Editor-in-Chief, the Managing, News, Features, Arts & Entertainment, Opinions, Photo and Sports editors and the Business Manager, unless otherwise noted. Opinions expressed in signed editorials and letters to the editor are those of the author and not necessarily those of The Signal. Myles Ma Editor-in-Chief Erin Duffy Managing Editor Megan DeMarco Kelly Duncan News Editors James Queally Sports Editor Kristen Lord Features Editor Joseph Hannan Arts & Entertainment Editor Michael O’Donnell Opinions Editor Lauren Gurry Production Manager Chris Gifford Photo Editor Diana Bubser Nation & World Editor Maham Qureshi Funstuff Editor Michelle McGuinness Senior Editor Donna Shaw Adviser Allison Singer Kate Napolitano Copy Editors Bobby Olivier Sports Assistant Caroline Russomanno Arts & Entertainment Assistant Tim Lee Mike Smith Photo Assistants Gene Reda Web Master Kelli Plasket Web Editor Barry Enright Distribution Director Business Office Alaine Boccafola Business/Ad Manager Erica Chao Classifieds Manager Corrections • In the Nov. 6 issue, an article named Christopher Myers the winner of the 3rd congressional district seat in New Jersey. The winner was actually John Adler. • In our Oct. 22 story “Fraternity house raided by Ewing police,” we incorrectly said Campus Police issued underage drinking summonses to five students. Ewing police were the only law enforcement officials to issue summonses related to that incident. page 8 The Signal November 12, 2008 November 12, 2008 The Signal page 9 Opinions The Signal says ... Stop: Overworking yourself, hoping for the Eagles, talking down Presidentelect Barack Obama before his term even begins, being so sleep-deprived. Caution: Rusty nails, gluttony, mug shots, registering for classes, ‘The Greatest Show on Turf.’ Go: Pat yourself on the back for making presidential history, see ‘Role Models,’ eat some fish, start your Christ ma s shopping, wish Mike O’Donnell a happy birthday on Nov. 14. Election suspenseful despite predictable result This election, I was expecting another long delay in counting the votes as in the previous two elections. For those two elections, it was so close that Kaleigh A. Levoyer no one knew who would win, with the recounting and other events dragging it on for so long. Even though these events happened in the last two elections, I still stayed up to see how the events of this year would transpire. To my surprise, as soon as I turned on the TV, it was already being broadcast on CNN that Sen. Barack Obama was handily beating Sen. John McCain in electoral votes. I was shocked. After all, it was only the beginning — it could have changed in the next hour or so, though I hoped it wouldnʼt. And as the hours went on, Obama was still ahead of McCain as things began to look worse for the Republicans, both in the presidential race and in the House and Senate. Finally, at 11 p.m., when the West Coast polls came in, Obama was announced the winner. I was shocked and almost didnʼt believe it for a second. But then some guys on my floor started screaming and running through the halls, going on about Obama being president. That was when I accepted the fact that Obama had truly won the presidential campaign as the first black to do so, and my first vote in any election was for this historic race. After watching Signal Spotlight the victory and concession speeches, going on Facebook and witnessing more people running through the hallways celebrating Obamaʼs victory, I was happy and at ease with the election being over for me. When I compare this election to the ones of 2000 and 2004, I have to admit this election night, though shorter than the other two, was probably more exciting than the previous elections. First, compared to the race of 2000 between then-Gov. George W. Bush and former Vice President Al Gore, the suspense from the closeness of the electoral votes was great and all, but after a while, everyone just wanted it to be over. Floridaʼs votes were recounted so many times that it eventually had to be decided by the Supreme Court, which stopped the recounting. This eventually led to Bush winning Florida and the election. But by then, everyone was just exhausted and not as excited as they had been a month before. Then there was 2004, the election between Sen. John Kerry and Bush. Though not as close as the one before, it was tight in some states and in the Electoral College until all the results were compiled. Another important part of the election was the publicity each candidate received before the election. There was so much emphasis on the backgrounds of each man that their histories became more popular than the candidateʼs campaigns. But in this election, there was a lot of publicity surrounding the candidates and their families. Most of the news before AP Photo Obama won a historic and decisive election over John McCain. the election was about the pasts of the presidential candidates and their running mates, Sen. Joe Biden and Gov. Sarah Palin. It was so popular that even “Saturday Night Live” received many great reviews for their Palin skits starring look-alike Tina Fey. I believe this election, despite the speed of the vote counting, will be remembered for years to come. I believe this to be mostly because of the publicity of the candidates and the result of the first black man being elected president. Sources: CNN.com, NPR.org Were you shocked about presidential election outcome? the Policies The Signal is published weekly during the academic year and is financed by the Student Activities Fee (SAF) and advertising revenue. Any student may submit articles to The Signal. Publication of submitted articles is at the discretion of the editors. The letters section is an open forum for opinions. Submissions that announce events or advertise in any way will not be printed. All letters should be sent via e-mail to [email protected]. Handwritten letters should be sent to The Signal, c/o The Brower Student Center, The College of New Jersey, PO Box 7718 Ewing, N.J. 08628 or placed in our mailbox in the Student Life Office. Letters must be received by the Friday before publication and should not exceed 300 words. The Signal reserves the right to edit letters for space and clarity. All letters must be signed, with a phone number and address of the author. Requests to withhold the author’s name will be honored only if there is a legitimate reason. All materials submitted become the sole property of The Signal. The editors reserve the right to edit or withhold all articles, letters & photographs. The Signal willingly corrects factual mistakes. If you think we have made an error, please contact The Signal at (609) 771-2424, write to the address listed above or e-mail us at [email protected]. “No, because I think America realized we needed a change. ” — Jen Hurler, freshman interactive multimedia/ communication studies major “No, because America wanted a change and Barack will bring that to the country.” “No. I had a lot of confidence in Obama, and he was the best option.” — Anthony Vicidomini, junior chemistry major — Mercedes Gaillard, freshman open option Culture and Society major “No, because America viewed him as a celebrity, and he has a good image for this country.” — Sundeep Kapur, sophomore psychology major We made history! After electing the first black president, want to make more history? Then write for The Signal: [email protected] AP Photo page 10 The Signal November 12, 2008 November 12, 2008 The Signal page 11 Features Latin culture explodes Self-image weighs By Rebecca Florczyk Correspondent The fifth annual Explosion Latina took place Friday in Brower Student Center in front of a packed audience of more than 200. Explosion Latina is an event sponsored by Unión Latina, an organization founded in the ʼ70s by a group of Puerto Rican students attending the College. Today, Unión Latina is run by president Angelika Gutierrez, sophomore seven-year medical student and international studies major. “Explosion Latina is a time for students from both Unión Latina and those who arenʼt to showcase their talent,” Gutierrez said. She, along with the executive board of Unión Latina, have been planning the event since the end of August. The student showcase, hosted by Oliver Encarnacion, senior English major, and Eliana Reyes, College alumna, was open to all members of the College community. “We sent out e-mails to every club on campus to try to get people involved,” Gutierrez said. The show consisted of nine performances, ranging from drumming and poetry to singing and dancing. The first performance included TCNJ Taiko, a new campus organization skilled in the Japanese drumming tradition of Taiko. “The setup of each performance was great,” Gutierrez said. “Taiko was an explosive way to start the event and then we moved into spoken word and dance. We had such a variety with each performance . . . they were able to build on each other to make it a great event.” Explosion Latina also featured the Treblemakers, the Collegeʼs only female a capella group created during the spring semester of last year. This group of talented young women performed two songs, including a spin on the classic, “Itʼs Raining Men.” Halfway through the show, a variety of Latino dishes were served, including chicken and rice and empanadas. “The purpose of Explosion Lati- na,” Gutierrez said, “is to raise Latino awareness on campus and expose the College community to Latino cuisine.” Unión Latina members also took the spotlight during the Explosion, with performances by sophomores Sofia Ochoa, biology/accounting major, and Kristina Mercado, fine arts major. Ochoa, the fundraising chair, performed a cultural dance called Festejo, a festive Peruvian dance. Mercado dazzled the crowd with a beautiful a capella rendition of two Spanish praise songs. According to Unión Latina board members, Explosion Latina exceeded all expectations. “We were so concerned with the logistics of the night,” Gutierrez said. She admitted that scheduling such an event is not easy. Despite this, Unión Latina plans to hold another Explosion next year. “Itʼs becoming a tradition,” Gutierrez said. “Everyone loves it and everyone enjoys it.” Mike Smith / Photo Assistant Explosion Latina, hosted by senior Oliver Encarnacion, featured performances by several students. heavily on students By Melissa Redmond Correspondent The College welcomed Leslie Goldman, author of “The Locker Room Diaries,” last Thursday to speak about her problems with body image, weight and appearance, issues that affect a majority of women. Goldmanʼs presentation at the College was arranged by members of Bod Squad, Vox and the Womenʼs Center. She is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where her battle with anorexia began 12 years ago. Goldman recalled memories of spending time with friends and going to fraternity parties, but mentioned observing thin, beautiful young women at these functions, causing her to re-evaluate her own physique. She noted how girls dressed in tight clothing received attention from young men and she thought, “Why arenʼt I getting attention?” In the weeks following this turning point in Goldmanʼs life, she altered her diet and ran farther each day. “In society, when you start losing weight, you get complimented,” Goldman recalled from her freshman year in college. Her body was changing at a rapid rate, and the tall, slender Goldman weighed about 120 pounds by Thanksgiving break. When her parents saw their daughter for the first time in three months, their reaction to her appearance was one of fear and anxiety. “They wanted me to stay home and receive treatment,” Goldman said. She was able to negotiate an agreement with her parents so she could stay at school. To this day, Thanksgiving is still a difficult time for Goldman. “The holidays are so inundated with food,” she said. Goldman continued to talk about her struggles with anorexia, and made it clear that women of any age are susceptible to the disease. “No one can make you get better,” Goldman said of receiving treatment for anorexia. During this time she learned she had a genetic predisposition to the disease from her grandfather. Goldman recalled changes in her mood and personality. “Someone who is not eating becomes very dull and sad,” she said. Eventually, she was able to control her is- Mike Smith / Photo Assistant Speaker Leslie Goldman addressed weight issues and self-image. sues with her weight and focused on giving lectures in gyms across the country. Goldman explained she made herself a promise that she would not be a prisoner of the scale. “If your clothes fit you, and you feel happy, itʼs great to be free of that number,” Goldman said. As the session progressed, Goldman advised audience members not to be fooled by magazine covers and advertisements that portray false images of beauty. She provided examples of airbrushing and photo manipulation techniques that major publications utilize to create images of perfection that mislead and damage the confidence of women and men across the nation. “It was great to see the airbrushing and learn that the pictures we see arenʼt real,” Courtney Brown, sophomore English/special education major, said. For Brown, the topic of eating disorders was familiar. “I had an eating disorder and it was interesting to hear about her own struggle,” she said. Goldmanʼs words touched other students, as well. Zakiya Clark, sophomore nursing major, said, “Body image isnʼt all that important. Being healthy is.” Annual conference celebrates minority achievements By Alex Bachert Staff Writer “White, protestant, middle-aged, heterosexual males. Does anyone fit that category?” asked Marisole Conde-Hernandez. Hernandez, a sociology student from Rutgers University, opened the Collegeʼs 14th Annual Minority Achievement Conference (MAC) by challenging the audience to define what constitutes the majority versus the minority. Chi Upsilon Sigma National Latin Sorority, a diverse on-campus organization dedicated to helping women and minorities, ran the conference. The Collegeʼs chapter is just one of 48 in the national organization, which was founded more than 20 years ago at Rutgers University. “We are not a chapter-based organization. We all aim for the same goals,” MAC coordinator Clarissa Espinoza said as she described the group. Chi Upsilon Sigma is founded on four principles: political, educational, social and cultural awareness. “Our main goal is to bring awareness,” Gabriela Luna, president of Chi Upsilon Sigma, said. More than 100 million people in the United States are minorities. It is projected that by 2050, half of the U.S. population will be non-white. The speakers at the conference were sisters, friends and members of local businesses who all had valuable information and knowledge to offer. Mary Switzer, a gender equity specialist at the College, spoke at “Showing Your True Colors,” one of the six workshops offered. Her discussion utilized colors to represent personality types and gave people insight into their passions. “Students need to learn who they are and how to apply it to their career and everyday life,” she said. The event was open to all College students, as well as other interested parties. High school students, teachers, parents and friends also attended. Yasmin A. Obie, a member of the Collegeʼs National Council of Negro Women, was there to lend her support to fellow organizations. It is “basically about empowering and making better people,” she said. Rafael Figueroa, sophomore finance major at Ra- mapo College, proved the conference was open to everybody, including males. “I found out about the conference through a friend and came to learn about leadership of minorities,” he said. The large turnout for the conference emphasized the clubʼs goal of raising awareness in the community. Evelin Martinez, co-coordinator of MAC, joined the organization in fall 2007. When asked why she decided to join, Martinez said, “What the sorority stands for. The personality of the sisters. The level of involvement. I saw myself in the sorority.” MAC is an event that takes place every fall, yet it is just one of the many events the sorority sponsors. “We do at least two workshops a week,” Espinoza said. Other events include Week in Remembrance for Founding Moms in April and Founders Week in the beginning of December. After a successful day of workshops, Chi Upsilon Sigma and friends concluded the event with a homecooked Spanish meal and the message of Hernandezʼs opening advice to “spread the knowledge and power.” page 12 The Signal November 12, 2008 These bear cubs fight for their copy of The Signal! Google Images Give them something worth fighting for! Write for The Signal. [email protected] 5x8 November 12, 2008 The Signal page 13 Prism / Club helps raise AIDS awareness continued from page 1 “Pasqua was good to learn about statistics and real stories,” Hannah Knight, public health chair of Prism, said. “(And) to find out how we can protect ourselves,” she added. One of the highlights of the week was the AIDS Benefit Talent Showcase. According to Knight, the event raised more than $250 for the Hyacinth Foundation, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the HIV/AIDS community. Knight started planning for the week months ago. “Starting early helped us gather a large number of co-sponsors and made it less stressful during the semester,” she said. The group started publicizing early and often with tabling in Brower Student Center, sidewalk chalk messages, banners and red ribbons tied around trees and poles. “This year, we definitely want to get the campus more involved,” Smolen said. “Students need to realize that it doesnʼt matter if youʼre gay, straight, black, white or Latina. Everyone has the responsibility of protecting themselves from AIDS.” According to the Center for Disease Control, the number of AIDS diagnoses in the United States continued to significantly increase within the last decade, especially in ages 18-24. Approximately 56,300 people are infected each year. Most i m p o rtantly, members of Prism hope to fight the stigma associated with AIDS. “The social death and exclusion of people who are living with HIV or AIDS is oftentimes just as excruciating as the symptoms of the disease itself, if not more so,” Knight said. She also emphasized the importance of getting tested for AIDS. Knight said, “You are not invincible. Go out, get tested, be safe.” Kristen Lord can [email protected]. be reached Tim Lee / Photo Assistant Prism remembers AIDS victims with candlelight walk Members of Prism concluded AIDS Awareness Week with a candlelight memorial walk and service. ʻThe memorial walk and service allowed us to remember people who have died from AIDS and form a stronger community,ʼ Hannah King, Prismʼs public health chair, said. at Talent show raises $250 Speaker sheds light By Garrett Rasko-Martinis Staff Writer At the end of the AIDS Benefit Talent Showcase show on Thursday, organized by members of Residential Education and Housing and Prism, it was announced that nearly $250 had been raised. It was the perfect end to an evening filled with students using their talents to help raise money for another event during AIDS Awareness Week. The showcase, held in the New Library Auditorium, drew some of the Collegeʼs most talented students. From small bands to solo musicians, comedians to magicians, there was a little of everything for those in attendance. The showcase garnered a large group of College students in the small auditoriumʼs audience. Unfortunately, the crowd numbers suffered from the showʼs long hours, as the audience gradually thinned out over the course of the three-hour concert. Adam Mamawala, senior communication studies major and former winner of the New Jersey Comedy Festival, added his comedic touch to the show. His hilarious routine involved funny ideas for GPS voices, satirical jokes about his family members and spot-on celebrity impersonations that had audience members rolling in their chairs. Mamawala surprised the audience later in the evening when he took the stage to showcase another of his talents. He sang with Pierre Miller, senior biology/music major, on piano and Craig Dickert, freshman music major, who used his beatboxing skills. The two songs performed included a cover of Craig Davidʼs popular R&B hit, “7 Days,” and Leonard Cohenʼs uplifting “Hallelujah.” Another excellent musical performance came from Colleen Napolitano, sophomore graphic design major. She played acoustic guitar and used her rich singing voice to cover “Sink, Florida, Sink,” by punk band Against Me. Her second song was an original piece that showcased her songwriting skills and musical aptitude. Other noteworthy performances included a cover of Jason Mrazʼs “Iʼm Yours,” performed by singer and guitarist Thomas Coughlin, junior biomedical engineering major. Coughlin also performed a strong original work. Bryan Mayer, junior computer science major, wowed the crowd with his magical expertise. Whether he was bending steel rods, putting dollar bills inside of lemons or reconstructing torn up pieces of newspaper, he didnʼt on living with AIDS By Molly Chase Correspondent Leigh Kazmaier / Staff Photographer Students displayed musical, magical and comedic talents at the AIDS Benefit Talent Showcase. fail to impress. “Believe it or not, I got most of our performers by reaching out to a Facebook group calling for performers to play at the (Rathskeller),” Kaitlyn McMahon, senior sociology member and main producer of the AIDS Benefit Talent Showcase, said. “A number of performers were returning again after performing at this concert last year.” This isnʼt the first year McMahon has been involved in AIDS Awareness Week. “This event is really special to me. Itʼs something Iʼve done the last two years and itʼs my last chance to do it before I graduate,” she said. “I think AIDS is something that has really been forgotten. People seem to think itʼs gone away and donʼt really care about it anymore. What they donʼt realize is people die from it every day and not just around the world but here too. Itʼs good to see people come out and help us battle this disease.” It was a small, intimate group that gathered Nov. 3 to hear Elaine Pasqua speak about living and loving with AIDS. Pasquaʼs talk was enthusiastic and personal. She started off with a story about her mother, Eileen Hawkins, and her battle with the disease. Pasqua spoke about the secrecy and feelings of ostracism often accompanying an AIDS diagnosis. “When people donʼt speak out about it, it gives you the impression that itʼs not in your community,” Pasqua said. Pasqua mentioned the most common reaction among people confronted with someone infected is the question of how the virus was contracted. But with more than 40,000 new cases a year in the United States alone, with the highest concentration in the country found in nearby Manhattan, simply hiding the issue doesnʼt make it go away. “We all have lapses. Weʼre human,” Pasqua said. “But we shouldnʼt be judging people that have this disease. We should be treating these people with compassion.” Pasquaʼs impassioned talk certainly made an impression on the audience. “I started out thinking that it was fruitless … but I think my attitudes have been altered dramatically … (because of) tonight, by Elaineʼs presentation,” Julie Bergman, senior English/education major, said. Part of Pasquaʼs talk was interactive. One activity showed how it takes only one sexual partner to transfer the disease. Each audience member had a medicine cup filled with a clear liquid; all but one had water in the cup. The one exception was sodium hydroxide (the “HIV virus”), which would turn the water pink when mixed with phenolphthalein. What started as one cup with the virus turned into 10 at the end of the experiment. “It only takes one time to get infected,” Pasqua said at the end of the activity. Hannah Knight, sophomore special education/psychology major, was in charge of bringing Pasqua to the College. “Sheʼs come here before,” Knight said. “Iʼve heard lots and lots of good stories about her.” Knight decided to bring Pasqua to the College earlier than National AIDS Day, which is in December, with the mindset that every day should be seen as National AIDS Day. “There are going to be some events in December,” Knight said. “(But) we wanted to spread it out so more people could attend.” page 14 The Signal November 12, 2008 Anne Hathawayʼs birthday is Nov. 12. Google Images Give her a copy of The Signal. Itʼs the perfect gift for a princess. [email protected] 5x8 November 12, 2008 The Signal page 15 Fashionistas tune into TV for latest trends By Christina Blok Correspondent Every week, fashionistas all over the country tune into their TV not just for the drama and entertainment, but to see what their favorite characters are wearing. What started with “Sex and the City” and a shoe-obsessed Carrie Bradshaw developed into a stream of TV shows trying to make their mark on the fashion world. Today, thousands of eager men and women vie for jobs at top fashion magazines. Elle magazine is one such publication showcasing 11 interns competing for one spot on a reality TV show on the CW network. “Stylista” is the newest of the more than 10 fashion-related shows on basic cable this year. The CW also features shows like “Gossip Girl,” “Americaʼs Next Top Model,” “90210” and “Privileged,” while cable network Bravo produces hit shows like “Project Runway,” “The Rachel Zoe Project” and “Tim Gunnʼs Guide to Style.” Certainly “Sex and the City” is the most well-known and beloved fashionrelated TV show. Carrie, Samantha, Miranda and Charlotte have made designers like Manolo Blahnik and Patricia Field, the showʼs costume designer, into household names, while influencing magazine editorials, store windows and fashion trends. Sarah Jessica Parker is counted among the top celebrity trendsetters, and the movie version of the show was so popular, actress Kim Cattrall recently confirmed the possibility of a sequel. “The clothes are like another character in the show. They help make it real,” actress Cynthia Nixon said in an interview with People magazine. However, the fashion-forward foursome of “Sex and the City” had a budget that allowed them to have a label-filled closet that most people cannot afford. To combat this, many Web sites began showing low-budget fashion enthusiasts how to “get the look for less.” A similar phenomenon has occured with “Gossip Girl,” a show that some have declared fills the void left by “Sex and the City.” The teen drama, based on a popular book series, showcases “the scandalous lives of Manhattanʼs elite.” Like the women of “Sex and the City” girls, the characters on “Gossip Girl” have money and designer duds at their disposal. However, the showʼs increasing popularity has forced the fashion world to make the looks shown on “Gossip Girl” accessible to those with lower budgets. Blair Waldorf, one of the main characters on the show, single-handedly brought about the trend of chic headbands and multi-colored tights. Those looking to copy Blairʼs look need not look further than Forever 21, whose fall/winter line includes more than 20 types of tights and leggings, and numerous styles of headbands. The CWʼs morning news now includes a segment showing viewers how to get Blairʼs look for less, and features characters on other fashion-centric CW shows. Web sites like gossipgirlinsider.com and gossipgirlfashion.com also show how to achieve the characterʼs style on a limited budget. Reality shows have also made their mark on the world of fashion by showcasing the “behind the scenes” moments of the fashion industry. The wildly popular “Project Runway” has become the springboard for new upand-coming fashion designers, including season one winner Jay McCarroll, season three winner Jeffrey Sebelia and the “ferosha coutura” winner of season four, Christian Siriano, all of whom have showcased at New York or Los Angelesʼ Fashion Week. gossipgirlinsider.com Shows like ʻGossip Girlʼ have inspired some of the latest fashion trends. Siriano also designed gowns for the models at the Emmy Awards and appeared on ABCʼs fashion-centric “Ugly Betty.” “Project Runwayʼs” host, model Heidi Klum, even wore one of Sirianoʼs designs to the Emmy Awards. The fashion elite have taken notice with guest appearances by Parker, Diane von Furstenburg, Victoria Beckham, Brooke Shields, Nicky Hilton and Catherine Malandrino. The show even produced two spinoff series, “Project Jay,” following the struggles of McCaroll, and “Tim Gunnʼs Guide to Style,” a fashion makeover show. Bravoʼs “The Rachel Zoe Project” follows celebrity stylist Rachel Zoe as she works with designers and boutiques to style celebrities such as Debra Messing and Jennifer Garner. Having already established a successful career, Zoe is able to show viewers the glamorous but stressful life of a stylist as she attends fashion shows, meets with de- signers such as Erin Featherston, Donna Karan, Marc Jacobs and Oscar de la Renta, and spends thousands of dollars on designer and vintage clothes. The CWʼs “Americaʼs Next Top Model” and Bravoʼs “Make Me a Supermodel” show wannabe models working the runways, doing photo shoots, commercials and going on gosees with designers. Shows like these give aspiring models the chance to show the industry their talents. Winners from both shows have signed with agencies and walked the runways in major fashion shows. Fashion-based television shows have created a marriage between the high fashion world and everyday people. By giving viewers access to high fashion designers and name brands, those watching at home have become more aware of the fashion world and what it really takes to be a part of it, as well as making viewers more conscious of their own personal style. Start preparing to cope with cold weather By Alex Seise Staff Writer The weather outside is well on its way to becoming frightful, so why not take some time to spruce things up inside and make your dorm space delicious and delightful? A few months ago, Hillary Clinton released an ad asking voters which candidate they wanted to take their 3 a.m. phone call. An interesting premise during an election year, but when I was young, we didnʼt care who took the early morning phone calls during the winter months. The dog could have answered the phone as long as it meant we didnʼt have to go to school due to snow and ice. Alex Seise / Staff Writer Itʼs time to prepare for the upcoming winter months, including dressing appropriately. Now that Iʼm away at college, Iʼve learned that snow and ice donʼt necessarily mean life takes a break for a day or two. Instead, itʼs necessary to keep trucking ahead despite the damp, slushy mess that may cover the roads. Being prepared for winter is crucial to staying comfortable and cozy without having to leave your dorm room. Stock up on non-perishable food items like soup, crackers, canned fruits and macaroni and cheese. These items can be stored in an airtight box for months inside a closet or beneath a bed. Instead of schlepping across the campus to Eickhoff Hall through several inches of snow, pop an instant meal into a bowl and enjoy an easy meal. Or, if you and a group of friends are craving something a bit more exotic but are still banking on a lazy evening, use campusfood.com and have dinner delivered. Leave a nice tip; itʼs not fun for any delivery person to trek through the icy streets without proper compensation. When you go home for Thanksgiving, stock up on a few supplies that you might not have remembered back in August when you moved in. Grab extra blankets, sweatshirts, fleece pullovers, scarves, gloves, coats and anything else that keeps you warm. Layer an additional blanket above your comforter to create greater insulation in your bed. Though it may be tempting to seal your windows tightly and turn your room into a sort of cinder block incubator, resist the urge. Warm rooms lacking airflow will lead to germs, and itʼs important to keep fresh air circulating at all times. Bundle up instead to keep warm and healthy. Last year, the fire alarms went off in my dorm in the wee hours of the morning during a snowstorm. It was not a pleasant experience, but it helped that my gloves, scarf, coat and boots were left out and ready to go. Itʼs a good habit to keep warm clothes in close range should an alarm go off late at night, especially because you might find yourself outdoors for a long amount of time. Youʼd probably find yourself with a major cold if you were to walk around the snow in socks, so at the very least, keep a pair of unlaced sneakers at the ready. When you are walking from class to your dorm, enjoy an insulated mug of hot cocoa or tea. For an extra treat, make some homemade whipped cream and spike the recipe with a few drops of peppermint oil for a candy cane twist on a great hot cocoa topping. Sprinkle some cinnamon, nutmeg and sugar on a bag of popped, unflavored popcorn for a yummy cold-weather treat. And heat some fresh apple cider in the microwave with a pinch of brown sugar, cinnamon, a few cloves and some nutmeg for a quick mulled cider. Cold weather on campus doesnʼt have to bring misery or madness. Prepare in advance and you can make the best out of a day of canceled classes. Take that 6 a.m. phone call with a smile and before you tuck yourself back in for a few extra hours of sleep, glance out and take in the sight of the sparkling early-morning snow. Next week, Alex will talk about pressed leaves and all of the craft projects College students can do with them. What are your favorite autumnal arts and crafts? E-mail [email protected] to share. page 16 The Signal November 12, 2008 Arts & Entertainment Nice, Small put on best show ever By Caroline Russomanno Arts & Entertainment Assistant Have you had the Best Week Ever? You might not have, but Chuck Nice, Sherrod Small and Judah Friedlander were having a pretty good one when they stopped at the College on Friday, Nov. 7 as part of the “Best Week Ever Tour.” “Best Week Ever” is a VH1 news spoof in which comedians comment on the pop culture happenings of the past week — including celebrity gossip, TV and movies. The tour, however, seemed to be less about what is normally featured on the show and more about each comedian’s personal comedy. The show kicked off on the Kendall Hall main stage with Chuck Nice, a regular on the show, and someone who was very concerned about College students. “You’re so quiet, it’s like at a seminar or something,” he said at the beginning of his set. “This is a pretty tough school though, right? No wonder you’re sitting there so ass tight.” Nice focused mostly on money issues, race and girls. “Women travel in a pattern,” he said to the audience. “One hot chick and then the three linebackers with her.” According to Nice, women take care of their friends when they go out, but guys don’t give a damn about each other. “You go out, girls, and we go on safari,” he said, “We wait ’til one strays from the herd … she’s drunk and limping. I think I can take her out.” Nice, who is black, also commented on recent political events. “I was watching the election and I was like, damn, my momma was right. I could have been fucking president,” he said. That line got one of the biggest laughs of the night. Finally, Nice warned College students not to be judgmental, even though he himself can’t seem to break the habit. He recapped a story about when he was on the subway in New York and decided to be a hero and “watch” a suspicious-looking man of Arab descent with his “big-ass bag, terror beard and toilet paper swirly hat.” After staring for a while, Nice realized the man wasn’t going to do a thing and had an epiphany: “Now I know how white people feel at 3 a.m. when we’re standing by them at the ATM.” Next up was Sherrod Small, a semiregular guest on the show. “Oh, wow,” he said during his opening, “Some of Mike Smith / Photo Assistant Sherrod Small (left) and Judah Friedlander improvised performances on race and sports, respectively. ya’ll are just staring up here at me like … he’s made of chocolate.” Most of his set revolved around money and race. “I get out-blacked by young white kids every day,” he said. And according to Small, there’s no middle class — only rich people and not rich people: “People who say ‘I’m middle class’ — you’re adorable.” Small also explained why people get married and why women are better than men. “A vagina is a formidable opponent. It beats everything … rock, paper, scissors …” Small closed with a backhanded compliment for the College. “I’ve heard this is a really good school — it’s really tough, right? But … The College of New Jersey — on paper, it sounds like the dumbest school in the nation.” Finally, Judah Friedlander took the stage. The most well-known of the three (he is a regular on NBC’s “30 Rock”), he was also the least entertaining. During the preshow interview, he said, “We don’t really plan what we’re going to say — on the show or the tour. We just make it up as we go along.” And that’s exactly what he did. Most of his set consisted of him asking College students what they were good at (mostly sports) and then claiming he was better and giving reasons why. When a student expressed an interest in bowling, he said, “Yeah, they won’t let me bowl anymore. I once had a 580 in the fourth frame. I got a strike with a golf ball. They made me stop after that.” The highest score one can get in bowling game is a 300 (in 10 frames). His set got the fewest laughs, as it wasn’t relevant like Nice’s and Small’s, and was also less thoughtful. After the three comedians had their say, they invited an audience member to the stage (sophomore political science major Kelly Rossiter) to partake in a short segment very much like the show. They looked at pictures on the big screen at the back of the stage and commented on them off the top of their heads. Finally, they selected five audience members to come on stage and tell the crowd why they had the best week ever. The girl who had just ended her 10-month celibacy was the clear winner. Annual WTSR Lavathon swaps ZZZs for $$$s By Matt Huston Staff Writer WTSR’s third annual “Lavathon,” a 24hour marathon radio program, demonstrated that student organizations at the College will stop at nothing to generate sorely needed cash. The event’s namesake is event founder and WTSR DJ Pat Lavery, a senior communication studies major who spent 24 hours on air to raise money for the station. In preparation for Lavathon, which began at noon on Nov. 6 and ended 24 hours later on Nov. 7, WTSR packed Lavery’s schedule with celebrity interviews, live musical performances and an evening sports show, not to mention hours of alternative music straight from Lavery’s CD collection. Instead of hosting the fundraiser from station headquarters in the Kendall Hall basement as they have in recent years, WTSR broadcast Lavathon 2008 live from Brower Student Center for the majority of Lavery’s grueling day-long shift. Lavery faced the challenge with excitement, noting this year’s program was even more dynamic than it had been in previous years. “There’s a lot more lined up this year than there ever has been,” he said. This year’s event required more than six weeks of preparation and organization from various staff members at WTSR. One of the most impressive draws to Lavathon is the sheer amount of physical effort exerted by Lavery to remain entertaining and en- Tim Lee / Photo Assistant Pat Lavery stayed up for 24 hours to raise money for charity and WTSR. gaging throughout the 24-hour period. Lavery said he’s “not a big coffee drinker at all,” and “the secret ingredient is just to keep yourself hydrated by really any means necessary.” “I have found that a 20-ounce bottle of water goes just as long a way as a little can of Red Bull,” he said. By lunchtime on Nov. 6, the student center was packed. Lavery mounted his platform, complete with a desk, microphones for performers and a public address system, and Lavathon was on. “We had some technical difficulties in the beginning,” Lavery said, “but we got off to a pretty good start after that. By 2:30 (Thursday) afternoon we really hit our stride.” The afternoon schedule included additional student performances by WTSR pro- gram director Jeff Rupert and Cat Costentino, junior communication studies major. Around 1 p.m., Lavery conducted an interview with filmmaker Chris Barrett and Efren Ramirez of “Napoleon Dynamite” fame, who recently coauthored a self-help book titled “Direct Your Own Life.” In the evening, Lavery, sports director Mike Leatherwood and Wayne Sciangola, a community volunteer, sat down for a sports discussion, during which they interviewed New York Jets cornerback Darelle Revis. Later that night, musician and College alumnus John Dutton — who planned to release an iTunes single the next day — performed around 9 p.m. “We got a lot of people asking what was going on, a lot of people interested in the acts we had performing,” Lavery said Friday afternoon. “If anything, it increased our visibility tenfold from being locked up down here (in the Kendall basement).” WTSR staffers collected donations for the radio station. The goal of the fundraiser was to generate money to replace old or damaged equipment. A portion of the proceeds will also go to the American Red Cross. Lavery projected $400 dollars in donations, which would be an all-time Lavathon high. WTSR will also be collecting donations from individuals and independent businesses in the community. “When all is said and done, I’m looking probably upwards of $1,000, maybe $2,000,” Lavery predicted. “Three thousand is the magic number, but if we get to $2,000 that’s about twice what we’ve ever raised.” At press time, $280 is the count, but he’s still waiting on money from parents, businesses and community volunteers. Last year, Lavathon raised several hundred dollars in honor of College student Matthew Wasser, who was killed by a drunken driver. WTSR donated funds to the Joe Torre Safe at Home Foundation, a charity that mirrored Wasser’s love for the Bronx Bombers and community involvement. Lavery named several WTSR staff members who were crucial to this year’s program, including station manager Darren Farinas, operations manager Amanda Burd, DJ Rob Viviano and assistant music director Steve Avigliano. Parody abounds in Black Box November 12, 2008 The Signal page 17 By Katie Brenzel Staff Writer Theater enthusiasts flocked to the Don Evans Black Box Theatre on Nov. 6 for the opening night of the doublebilled presentation of Seymour Barab’s “A Game of Chance” and “La Pizza con Funghi.” Thursday night’s performance was the first of four, held from Nov. 6 through Nov. 9. The theater resonated with the boisterous laughter of a full audience, which enthusiastically responded to the humor of the two comic operas. The night began with Barab’s “A Game of Chance.” The opera depicts three young women who are discontent with their current conditions. Each is visited by the Representative, the messenger of fate, who grants the women their respective desires. Though the messenger enables the realization of their dreams, the women remain dissatisfied, wishing they had asked for more. Opening night featured seasoned performers on stage. The roles of the three women were performed by Cassandra Boff, junior music education major, Elizabeth Ehret, sophomore music education major and Mary Starkey, junior music education major. Nicholas Dogas, sophomore music education, assumed the role of the Representative. The audience was in awe of the profound musical talent of the four individuals. Though this play didn’t rouse the explosive laughter the next would, the audience seemed to appreciate the subtle irony of the plot, accompanied by the masterful voices of those performing. “They all have so much talent. It was an incredible performance,” Kelsey Long, freshman art education major, said. Byrne and Eno attempt to recapture their past By Chris Payne WTSR Music Director and Steven Avigliano WTSR Assistant Music Director David Byrne and Brian Eno “Everything That Happens Will Happen Today” 4 stars out of 5 Mike Smith / Photo Assistant TCNJ Lyric Theatre performed ‘A Game of Chance’ and ‘La Pizza con Funghi,’ two one-act operas that parody 19th century Italian opera. “La Pizza con Funghi” followed. The opera employs a serious tone in the beginning, depicting the anxious relationship of Madame Voluptua and her husband Count Formaggio. However, the satirical nature of the piece materializes as the outrageous interactions between Voluptua and her secret lover, Scorpio, unfold. Despite the tragic components of the play, including a failed love affair, betrayal, murder and a poisoned mushroom pizza, the opera capitalizes on parodying the quintessential 19th century Italian opera. “They did a great job mocking the Italian-opera style. It was hysterical,” Margaret Lawrence, freshman English/ philosophy major, said. Jacqueline Leiva, senior music education major, played the character of Voluptua. The impressive, yet dramatic, performance of the exaggerated soprano kept the audience in hysterics. The role of her clumsy lover, Scorpio, was assumed by College alumnus Kevin Peters. Daniel Cameron portrayed the disgruntled, homicidal husband, Count Formaggio. They shared the stage with Nora Sirbaugh, professor of music, who assumed the role of Phobia. Their expert performances, coupled with the innate humor of the opera, left the audience in an uproar during the entire performance. Even musical director Lynda Saponara, who accompanied on piano, couldn’t help chuckling during the ridiculous ending. Lyric Theatre provides various performances throughout the year, so be sure to look for upcoming events. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss. Smith’s ‘Porno’ not just meaningless sex AP Photo Kevin Smith’s new film is more emotional than gross. By Pete Spall Staff Writer There are far too many films lacking the word “porno” in their title. But what may appear to be a gross-out sex comedy on the surface is actually a Kevin Smith film with more emotional resonance than most of his previous work. “Zack & Miri Make a Porno” is the story of two childhood friends, the titular Zack and Miri, who are shlogging through their 20s working low-wage jobs and spending their earnings on hockey skates, toys and Fleshlights, while ignoring a mounting pile of bills. When the twosome find themselves on the brink of starvation, they are forced into the glamorous world of amateur pornography. Knowing they can’t write, direct, film and star in the movie by themselves, a rebel crew is assembled. For this, Smith even recruited real-life adult film stars Katie Morgan and Traci Lords. But what was originally a passing idea, the prospect of making a porno, takes on weight. Can there be sex without consequences? Like in all of his films, Smith demonstrates that as hard as we try to differentiate between fucking and making love, the line is a thin one. Coming off this summer’s “Pineapple Express,” Seth Rogen returns to a role similar to his work in “Freaks and Geeks.” Instead of being the pot-smoking ne’er-do-well, which he is currently pigeonholed as, Rogen’s Zack is childlike, impish and yet, a mature and pensive character at the same time. Initially, Elizabeth Banks’ Miri is present only to be reactionary to Zack, but as time goes on, she breaks into her role. Banks shows a woman at an emotional crossroads and at no point does she ever undermine her performance by becoming a victim. She rightfully and graciously takes as much fault in this relationship as Zack. Smith shines in his creation of authentic exchanges between men and women — not just the word choices, but those subtle glances and pauses that are true to life. He gets how people engage one another, but he also gets how we all feel, even if those emotions aren’t always the prettiest. But this is not to say this is a serious movie. It is quite the contrary. The film’s true laugh riot is Craig Robinson. After years of stealing scenes in films like “Knocked Up,” “Walk Hard” and his work on “The Office,” Robinson delivers big as Rogen’s co-worker/producer. Brandon Routh of “Superman Returns” fame and Justin “I’m a Mac” Long both go against type by playing a pair of gay actors in a scene that leads to nothing but comedic results. With songs from Marcy Playground, Primus, Len and MC Chris, Smith continues his tradition of elegantly synching popular music to even the most awkward of human experiences. In the climactic wrap party scene, Live’s “Lift Me Up” plays over what may be the most heartbreaking moment in recent film. Even though Gawker has said this picture may not necessarily be Smith’s because of Rogen’s appearance, it should also be noted that Gawker has it out for Rogen. Just look at the tone of the Ghostbusters 3 article. Judd Apatow may have created the monster that is Rogen, but he didn’t invent the comedy. Smith has engineered a film that is hilarious, thoughtful and dirty enough to make even Andrew Dice Clay cringe. Keeping this in mind, this film packs more sentiment and genuineness than many of the films created today, including Apatow’s. After releasing a string of solo albums in the early ’90s, ex-Talking Heads frontman David Byrne has regrouped for another go-round with musical guru Brian Eno, the facilitator of much of his past musical glory. The result, “Everything That Happens Will Happen Today,” is a vibrant reminder of their collective ambition. Decidedly less experimental than its 1981 precursor, “My Life in the Bush of Ghosts,” this collaboration has a pop sheen to it, with a polish that the duo like to call “electronic gospel.” The genre-bending style is most successful on standouts like “Life Is Long” and “Strange Overtones.” Though comparing this music to the Talking Heads denies it a great deal of artistic justice, the style brandished here is not far off from standards like the Heads’ cover of Al Green’s classic “Take Me to the River.” When our two heroes move toward more eclectic territory, the results are similarly satisfying. The sprawling, six-minute artistic venture, “I Feel My Stuff” opens with sparse, creeping piano and after several twists and turns, chugs through an upbeat electronic outro. Though this gem may have lacked the hype, Byrne and Eno remain a force to be reckoned with. Key Tracks: “Life Is Long,” “I Feel My Stuff,” “Home” Passion Pit “Chunk of Change” 4 stars out of 5 If you keep your ear close to the indiemusic floor, you’ve probably heard rumblings about Passion Pit. After generating some buzz over the summer by touring with groups like Death Cab for Cutie and gaining attention at music festivals like CMJ, Passion Pit is benefiting from today’s blog hype industry. The debut EP has been out for just over a month now, but it’s worth revisiting, or finding for the first time if you haven’t already. It’s an impressive collection of layered dance songs that have an undeniable energy. From the irresistible sugary melodies of “Cuddle Fuddle” to the infectious hook of “Sleepyhead,” Passion Pit quickly proves they know how to create memorable songs. The real test of the group will come early next year with the release of their first fulllength album. Passion Pit know how to craft an excellent single, but it will be interesting to see how they fare when given the room to stretch out on a longer record. It’s rare to find an electronic group that can record instantly danceable songs without veering into over-the-top territory, but Passion Pit does just that. Keep an eye on this group. Key Tracks: “Cuddle Fuddle,” “Sleepyhead,” “I’ve Got Your Number” page 18 The Signal November 12, 2008 Oww! Charlie bit me! Google Images Iʼll only forgive him if he writes for The Signal! [email protected] November 12, 2008 The Signal page 19 Old Number 7 showcases roots music Tim Lee / Photo Assistant Old Number 7 performed a high-energy mix of country, roots and classic rock staples. By Dylan Golcher Correspondent A small but spirited crowd gathered in the Rathskeller on the balmy evening of Nov. 7 to enjoy the country sound of the New Jersey-based band Old Number 7. The band played an excellent combination of classic rock and country hits, including Patsy Cline’s “Walkin’ After Midnight,” Creedence Clearwater Revival’s “Lookin’ Out My Back Door,” the Beatles’ “The Ballad of John and Yoko,” Stevie Wonder’s “Signed, Sealed, Delivered” and the Rolling Stones’ “Wild Horses.” The band, which played every song passionately and energetically, admitted this particular show was early by their standards. Around 6 p.m., Danielle Donnangelo, one of the guitarists/vocalists, said to the crowd, “Sorry guys, its early for us.” Casey Ritchings, the other guitarist/vocalist, said at the end of the show, “This is the first gig we’ve done before ‘Jeopardy’ was over.” Throughout the show, the band interacted with the crowd, at one point asking whether they should “fast it up or slow it down,” in reference to the pacing of the songs. Each song played during the performance evoked a feel-good atmosphere inciting head-nodding and fingertapping to the rhythm. The band, which normally consists of four members, brought in a fifth member to play harmonica and sing. According to Ritchings, Old Number 7 has been playing as a band for about four years. He said three of the band members are from Jackson, N.J., while the other is Panic at the Disco pleases if you can tolerate tweens By Caroline Russomanno Arts & Entertainment Assistant Tweens to the right of me. Tweens to the left of me. Tweens to the front and back of me. I’d never felt so old in my life. And once the young girls in their newly bought matching shirts filed into the row in front of me, I knew I was doomed. But that’s what I get for going to see Panic at the Disco. The Prudential Center in Newark, N.J., a venue almost identical to Madison Square Garden on the inside, though smaller (with a much better sound system), was completely full on Nov. 2, one of the last dates on the inaugural Rock Band Live tour. The Cab, Plain White T’s and Dashboard Confessional were also featured. The show kicked off with the Cab, one of indie label Fueled by Ramen’s newest discoveries. The Cab aren’t bad live, but they have the nasty habit of sounding like a ’90s-era boy band. Lead singer Alex DeLeon actually sounds like *NSYNC-er JC Chasez. Plain White T’s then took the stage. After getting the prerequisite “new songs” out of the way, they finally played the only song they ever wrote that anyone really cares about, “Hey There Delilah.” It was more like, “Hey There Squeaky Pre-Teens Singing.” I actually liked the song when it first came out, but overexposure and a good smack to the head cured me of my temporary insanity. Plus, I heard the girl that lead singer Tom Higgenson wrote about dumped him. Finally, some semblance of music returned to the show when Dashboard Confessional took the stage. Chris Carrabba, lead singer and emo king, was as brilliant as always. The band played new favorites like “Vindicated,” the hit song from “Spiderman 2,” but also fell back on old reliables like “Hands Down” and “Screaming Infidelities.” Unfortunately, the markedly young audience didn’t appreciate the sheer brilliance that is a 33-year-old man singing about teenage heartbreak. I had to physically restrain my friend from throwing her shoe at the three prepubescents in front of us when they started screaming “You suck” during “Hands Down.” The 12-year-olds were not available for comment. In an effort to connect with the younger crowd, Carrabba and company actually covered a Miley Cyrus song. Which song? I have no clue (and I am so thankful for that). All that mattered was that was one of the only times the crowd went nuts for the practically legendary band. I weep for our younger generations. Finally, Panic took the stage. One of the most talked about — and bitched about — bands of this decade, Panic, despite all the hype about how they were signed and how they’re trying to be the Beatles on their newest album, can put on a show. And a damn good one, at that. They started, predictably, with “We’re So Starving,” the first song from “Pretty. Odd,” their latest album. From there, they traveled through an array of songs from their two albums, including a memorable performance of the ballad “When the Day Met the Night,” a song about the romance between the sun and the moon. It sounds corny, but it’s one of the most beautiful songs the band has written. Another highlight was “Northern Downpour,” which is, according to the band, the most important song they’ve ever written. I don’t know whether I agree with that, but nevertheless, the song was one of the many showstoppers of the evening. “I Write Sins Not Tragedies,” the infectiously catchy tune that won Panic the 2006 VMA Video of the Year award, was also fantastically done. One drawback to the performance was the singing. Lead singer Brendon Urie’s voice is amazing, and he executes wonderfully live, but the newest vocalist in the band, Ryan Ross (also the lead guitarist) did nothing to help. Whenever he sang, all he did was make Urie sound like he had a cold. There’s a reason the band replaced you with Urie back before you were signed, Ross. Besides a showy instrumental rendition of the Beatles’ “I Want You (She’s So Heavy),” Panic only played one cover (and thankfully it wasn’t a Jonas Brothers song) — “Shout” by the Isley Brothers, as their closer. And no offense to the Brothers, but Urie nailed it. His writhing, dancing and ridiculously dead-on vocals drove home the fact that the show belonged to Urie. He owned the stage and made me remember why I was the only one over the age of 18 in the audience. from Eatontown, N.J. When asked about the genre of music the band plays, Ritchings said, “We don’t consider ourselves country. We’re a roots band. We like to dig into the sound of old blues and classic rock.” While the band mainly performs covers of other songs from both classic and contemporary artists, Ritchings said they do have a few original songs, but they did not play them during their performance. Michael Lawrence, one of two Rat chairs from College Union Board, also spoke about the band’s genre and style of music. “We try to get a good mix of music to appeal to everyone’s taste. Country music isn’t exactly everyone’s thing, but as you sit and listen to the performance you can grow to appreciate the band’s talent,” he said. The band culminated their performance with a superb rendition of the Johnny Cash hit, “Jackson.” After the show, Ritchings said they are used to playing in front of different sized crowds, with each crowd affecting the way they play. “When we see people dancing and really getting into the music, it makes us play to that energy level,” he said. Based on their performance, it would seem as if the Rat crowd brought out the energy that drives the band. Drive By closes concert series with acoustic set Tim Lee / Photo Assistant The Jersey City-based band Drive By appeared at the last performance of the WTSR Concert Series on Wednesday, Nov. 5 in the Kendall Hall TV Studio. The band, which has shared the stage with Saves the Day and My Chemical Romance, among others, performed an acoustic set. To listen to Drive By, visit myspace.com/driveby. Write for A & E and the Professor Brothers will give you serious “Bro Grabs.” [email protected] page 20 The Signal November 12, 2008 November 12, 2008 The Signal page 21 page 22 The Signal November 12, 2008 Funstuff Curvature By Kafele Boothe HOROSCOPES Answers 1. Pomegranate 2. Cherimoya 3. Guava 4. Pineapple Name that Fruit! Madame Lola Predicts Your Future Scorpio Pisces October 23 — November 21 You are really excited for something this week. Donʼt let anyone bring you down, even though some will try, because they are jealous of the new and exciting things you have going on. You have big changes coming. Cancer February 19 — March 20 Trying new things is always a good thing to do. You usually are a creature of habit and you arenʼt that adventurous, but you will feel the urge to be daring this week. Be sure to avoid trouble as you are heading toward it. June 21 — July 22 You will see or hear something that is extremely hurtful to you. However, you may soon find out that you misinterpreted what you heard or saw, so be careful not to jump to conclusions this week. Sagittarius November 22 — December 21 Aries No matter how hard things get, you know that you will come out a winner in the end. You are competitive and you are determined to succeed at whatever you do. Your confidence will pay off in the end. December 22 — January 19 Taurus Thinking on your feet is a talent you must master this week. You will be put on the spot and you will have no clue what to do. Use your quick wit to figure out a way to escape from this trap; otherwise, you might fall flat on your face. March 21 — April 19 Leo Making an impression on someone can be a good or a bad thing. Luckily for you, this week you will make a really good impression on someone, even though you might not realize it. This person will help you out. April 20 — May 20 Virgo Sometimes the most difficult thing to do is be honest, because you know that you will hurt someone you care about. However, by not being honest, you are only hurting yourself. Be strong and tell the truth. Libra May 21 — June 20 July 23 — August 22 Drama free is the way to be. Even though you thrive on living life and going out almost every night, sometimes itʼs good to be free from the drama that usually is present in your life. Enjoy the calm while it lasts. August 23 — September 22 Everyone makes mistakes and does things they regret. The important thing is how you deal with the situation after it happens. The best thing to do is genuinely apologize and try not to make the same mistake twice. September 23 — October 22 You have a lot of decisions to make, some bigger than others. Itʼs the seemingly less important decisions that will be the most difficult for you to deal with. Think long and hard, but make sure to do whatʼs right for you. Capricorn Aquarius January 20 —February 18 Gemini There are things that are private, and sometimes you forget where the line is. You need to stop being so open about private details of your life, because people can use these things against you and hurt you later. It might be relatively easy to forgive, but forgetting is not. Someone close to you has hurt you deeply and trusting them again is proving to be difficult. Take it slow; they will understand your hesitation. November 12, 2008 The Signal page 23 Private I’s By Lauren Costantini Love Match By Maham Qureshi Are you looking for love? Sometimes, it can be right under your nose. This week, we matched good friends Anna Ho, junior biology major, and Mark Soryal, junior mechanical engineering major, and they went on a date to an ice skating rink. Afterward, they were interviewed separately and hereʼs what they had to say about their love match. 1. On a scale of 1-10, how would 4. Do you feel that you are you rate the date? compatible? Anna: 9 Anna: (long pause) Yes, I mean heʼs pretty laid back, and heʼs tall Mark: 9 ... and cute. 2. What did you do on your date? Mark: Yeah, because we both like What did you talk about? Anna: We went to an ice skating rink and then we went out to eat afterwards. We talked about school and what we did on Halloween. I also told him my amazing story about how I witnessed a robbery. Mark: We went to an ice skating rink and we just ice skated, really. I kind of learned how to ice skate. It was a learning experience. We talked about school, life, the future, good things to come. 3. Do you think connection? Anna: Definitely, connection. We nonstop. Mark: Absolutely, been a connection. the same things, like having fun and cars. We have the same friends too, so it just makes sense. 5. What did you like about your match? 6. What didnʼt you like about your match? Anna: He didnʼt shave. Mark: The way she was better than me at ice skating. 7. Would you suggest “Love Match” for others? Anna: Yes, you never know what catches youʼre missing out on. Mark: I would say yes, because there are a lot of students who like other students but are too shy to say anything. there was a there was a were flirting thereʼs always Anna: Heʼs very easy to talk to. He is a lot of fun — we joke and laugh a lot together. Mark: Her sense of humor. Maham Qureshi / Funstuff Editor If you would like to be matched up like Anna and Mark, then e-mail [email protected] with your name, age, grade, sexual preference, description of yourself and a description of your ideal match. 8. Would you go out on a second date? Anna: (nods) We had a lot of fun except this time, he should shave. Mark: Yes, definitely, but not ice skating. Maybe something Iʼm good at, like basketball. page 24 The Signal November 12, 2008 Classifieds Classified Word Ad Rates: Up to 20 words $5 per insertion; $2.50 for each additional 10 words. Classified Display Ad Rates: $8 per column inch per day (off campus). See Ad Manager for on campus rates. Contacting the Ad Office: The Signal business office can be reached at (609)-771-2499 or [email protected] Terms: 1. All classified advertisements must be paid in full at time of placement. Absolutely no exceptions. 2. Deadline for ads is 12 p.m. Friday preceding publication. Advertisement may be placed at the Signal business office, (TCNJ Brower Student Center Basement), or mail with full payment to The Signal Classifieds, Brower Student Center, TCNJ, P.O. Box 7718, Ewing, NJ 08628-0718. 3. Classifieds are non-cancellable. There are no refunds for any classified ads. There will be a $1 charge for any changes made in the ad after it has been placed. 4. There is no commission or agency discount on classified ads. 5. Tearsheets or proofs will not be provided for classified ads. 6. All advertising is subject to acceptance by The Signal, which reserves the right to reject copy at its sole discretion at any time prior to publication. 7. The Signal will not consider adjustments of payment for any advertisement involving typographical errors or erroneous insertions unless notice is given to the Advertising Manager within ten (10) days of publication. The Signal shall not be held liable for more than one incorrect insertion of any advertisement. If any error in an advertisement is made by The Signal, its liability shall only be for such portion of the entire cost of the advertisement as the Advertising Manager shall determine by the extent of the error in relation to the entire advertisement. 8. The Signal will make all reasonable efforts to see that advertising is published as accepted; however; The Signal will not be liable for any consequential damages resulting from failure to do so. 9. The advertiser assumes full and complete liability for the content of all advertising printed pursuant to this agreement and shall indemnify The Signal harmless against any demands, claims or liablity. 10. Ads placed by mail, accompanied by payment and placement authorization, will be accepted subject to compliance with the above conditions. Insertion of such ads will constitute acceptances of all terms listed above, even if the advertiser has not signed a contract form. Part-Time Tutors: All levels math, reading, writing, SAT/ACT Prep. Ability to tutor in multiple subjects a plus. Flexible schedule required, competitive rates. West Windsor, NJ Fax resume 609-750-0043 or email WestW [email protected] William Hung loves The Signal! Paid Internship Positions: The Jablon Group is seeking upperclassmen for its Paid Management Internship Positions. See Detailed Info at: www.JablonGroup.net Math/Science Tutor: Tutor needed for high school science and math off-campus. Need to have own ride. E-mail ccbschoolprinceton@hotmail. com or call 609-924-1888. Room for Rent: Room for rent next to Buddyʼs Shamrock on Homecrest. Just remodeled A++. 600/ month. Includes utilities. Call Jerry 609-638-4841 [email protected] House for Rent: Hopewell/East Amwell - Privacy SF Home surrounded by 11 wooded acres of privacy and tranquility. 2BR, 2 1/2 Baths, lg LR with FP, eat-in kitchen, DR/FR, Office, 2 Decks. $1,450/mo + utils. Available Immediately. 609-731-2932 Server and Hostess Positions: Now hiring Partime and Fulltime Servers and Hostesses for busy downtown Princeton Restaurant. Flexible schedule and benefits available. Please apply with manager on duty @ Winberies Restaurant 1 Palmer Square Princeton, N.J. 08540 Phone #609-921-0700 Google Images His taste in journalism far surpasses his musical abilities. [email protected] Your ad here! Your ad here! Your ad here! SignalSports Strong dose of ‘D’ drops Colonials By Duncan Slobodzian Staff Writer The Lions embarked on their third and final long trip of the season and emerged winners over New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) opponent Western Connecticut State University (WCSU), 30-20. The College took a 24-14 lead into the locker room at halftime and matched WCSU’s six points in the second half to move its record to 4-5 (4-4 NJAC). Junior defensive back Justin Beres had a breakthrough game on the defensive side of the ball, pulling in three interceptions that killed three consecutive Colonial drives in the first quarter. “I overcame frustration in the very beginning of the game, and I took it out on the field. I was just trying to help get something going on defense, and I wound up making some plays,” Beres said. “Each of the interceptions was Junior DB Justin Beres had three interceptions. Lions’ Lineup November 12, 2008 Inside 46 53 Around the Dorm page 30 Signal File Photo Key defensive plays and the dual passing attack of junior quarterbacks Bill Picatagi (above) and Chris James helped the Lions drop the visiting Colonials 30-20. different; I jumped two of them, this year, especially on defense but on the third, I had good cover- and special teams.” There are a number of posiage and it came right to me.” Head coach Eric Hamilton has tives the players and coaches can watched Beres embrace his pres- take away from this game, maksure-packed position with grace. ing it easy to be optimistic about “Beres is coming into his own. the team’s future. Early in the year he was Colonials 20 “To watch our scuffling, but he worked team finally develop 30 its own personality is through it and with all Lions the teams picking on him, he has what we have been trying to do started to develop that mental from early on. It has taken longer toughness a corner needs,” Ham- than expected, but the good news ilton said. “He is finally over- is that it is happening,” Hamilton coming some early-season injury said. issues. He never misses a practice The offense worked to manand wants to be the best he can to age the game and turn the generhelp the team.” ally favorable field position into Hamilton’s young and rela- points. The Lions worked from tively inexperienced bunch has the ground up, placing the burden come together and improved each on their running attack. week. Junior running back Michael “We have had our share of ad- Yetka finished with 16 carries for versity but have stayed the course, 54 yards and a touchdown, and and hopefully now it is starting fellow junior running back Chase to pay off,” Hamilton said. “We Misiura took his 14 carries for 38 have played a lot of new faces yards and a touchdown. The two-back system has proven successful for the Lions this season. Each runner gets the opportunity to rest up during a long series and, when they are both in action, the chance to do some pivotal on-field damage. “We always have fresh legs, and we help each other out,” Misiura said. “It’s cool that there are two tailbacks playing because it’s nice to have a blocker with the same mindset as you. It helps in knowing where to go (and) what cut to make.” The two players in the backfield are not the only productive duo on offense. Junior quarterbacks Chris James and Bill Picatagi have shared snaps all season. Two games ago, Picatagi passed for 192 yards and a touchdown against highly touted SUNY-Cortland. It was a different story this see WIN page 29 Lions denied (L) 2-1 page 29 Winter sports previews page 25 Queens of the Jungle? Field Hockey Playoff Outlook page 27 Swimming and Diving Making waves: Men claim fifth straight meet Women tripped by D-II Owls, still stand at 4-1 By Bobby Olivier Sports Assistant A successful showing in a dual-meet weekend has the College’s men’s and women’s swimming teams prepared for the remainder of the season. The teams traveled to Franklin & Marshall College on Saturday, with each team taking home a win, improving their undefeated records to 4-0. The men’s team, led by sophomore Joe Tseng’s two individual wins, defeated the Diplomats 121-81, dropping their record to 0-2. Tseng took first in the 1,000-yard freestyle, finishing in 10:33.15, and in the 100-yard backstroke, where he finished in 54.60. Tseng also took part in the first place 200-yard medley relay team, which included senior Ted Yoa, sophomore Tom Medvecky and freshman Mike Vernoia. The team finished the event in 1:38.71 to open the meet. Medvecky also finished first in the 200-yard freestyle (1:44.47), while freshman Jesse Taylor placed second in the event (1:50.87). Rookie Ryan Clarke finished the 200-yard individual medley in 2:00.10 for the first-place finish, and sophomore Shawn Kircher took first in the 50-yard freestyle (22.27) to keep the Lions rolling through the meet. Other highlights included wins by junior Eric Rohrs in Mike Smith / Photo Assistant The men’s swimming and diving team bested Franklin & Marshall College and Southern Connecticut State University. the 500-yard freestyle (5:13.72) and senior Tom Nawrot in the 100-yard backstroke (48.34). To seal the victory, the Lions’ 200-yard freestyle relay team, consisting of Clarke, Kircher, Medvecky and Nawrot, scored a win, finishing the event in 1:27.38. The women’s team was equally dominant on Saturday, besting Franklin & Marshall by a score of 124.580.5, dropping them to 0-2 as well. The Lions began the meet with a 200 medley relay win as the team of freshmen Leah Varvaro, Laura Pierce, Traci Hofer and sophomore Katie Morgan finished in 1:51.96. Morgan finished first in the 100-yard breaststroke as well, completing the event in 1:09.16. Continuing the winning trend, Hofer took first in the 50-yard freestyle (25.29) and the 100-yard freestyle (56.14). Capturing first, senior Stefanie Rashti see OWLS page 29 November 12, 2008 The Signal page 25 Winter Sports Lions in search of winter wonderland Signal File Photos While the men’s basketball team will look to rebound under new head coach Kelly Williams’ guidance, the women’s basketball and wrestling crews are hoping to build off impressive 2007-2008 campaigns that saw both teams jockeying for national titles. As the College’s men’s and women’s basketball teams and the wrestling squads get ready to make their annual runs at championship gold this winter, The Signal gives you a first look at what’s in store. Women’s Basketball It was a tough way to go out. Last year, the Lions fell in the New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) to the Kean University Cougars before losing in the NCAA Tournament. However, if you ask the team members now, that disappointment has faded as they look to build off their newfound experience in the 2008-2009 season. “The losses in the NJAC finals and in the NCAA tournament are the fuel to this season, but in a positive way,” junior forward/center Alex Gregorek said. “We are not going to dwell on it, but we are going to use it to drive us forward and to try and accomplish even more this year.” The team has even higher hopes for this season, as most of the team is returning to action, with the notable exception of graduated guard/forward Sara Best. “Sara is, of course, a great loss (for) our team,” Gregorek said. “But we do have a lot of returning players with experience, as well as new players that bring a new dimension to our team.” The Lions went 22-7 overall with an 11-2 conference record last year. They will continue to look to senior center and captain Hillary Klimowicz as a team leader. Klimowicz led the Lions in points, rebounds and blocks per game last season. The question remains, however: Can the Lions get the job done in the NJAC this year? “We do have a great chance of taking the conference, but nothing is guaranteed and we need to work hard to get it,” Gregorek said. “Nothing is going to be handed to us.” — Michael O’Donnell, Opinions Editor Men’s Basketball Twenty years ago, red-shirt freshman Kelly Williams sat on the sidelines as the Lions raced into the finals of the 1990 NCAA Division III tournament. In 2008-2009, the rookie skipper will look to stir up some of that magic as the new head coach of a Lions’ squad on the rebound. “To be able to come back home and coach in the same place that I played is just an exciting feeling, and I’m very excited about that opportunity,” he said. Williams inherits a team depleted by graduation. Offensive catalyst Mark Aziz, big man Jeff Warner and speedy point guard Corey Gilmore are all gone, leaving the first-time coach’s team in the hands of his co-captain guards, sophomore Jay Frank and senior Jeff Molinelli. “Obviously losing that senior group and the points they produced last year (was) one of the areas that was a concern for me going in,” Williams said. “I’ve seen a lot of promise in Jeff Molinelli. He’s going to have to add to his successful junior year. We’re also going to lean on Jay Frank.” Molinelli is a complete package. The shooting guard is a three-point threat, capable rebounder and solid all-around scorer who ranks among the NJAC’s top offensive threats. Frank, a precise shooter who went 42 percent from the field as a sophomore, will also come to the forefront of a newlook offense that Kelly continually describes as “aggressive.” That style of play will be helped by some of Williams’ former charges from Mercer County Community College. Senior guard Eric Hayes will adopt Gilmore’s role at point guard. While he is not necessarily a major scoring threat, Hayes’ passing ability will be key for a team that hopes to run the floor and attack opposing defenses. Transfer center Alat-Eldin Ahmed, another ex-Mercer competitor, will add some muscle to the Lions’ speedy attack. Standing at 6-foot-9 and weighing 255 pounds., the big man could bring some powerful post play back to the College. — James Queally, Sports Editor Wrestling Expectations are high for the wrestling team. With the return of its two All-Americans — senior Greg Osgoodby (174 pounds) and sophomore Justin Bonitatis (165 pounds) — as well as the team’s two other co-captains — juniors Dan DiColo (149 pounds) and Tyler Branham (141 pounds) — the odds are in favor of the Lions repeating the success they had on the mats last season. The National Wrestling Coaches Association has already showed similar confidence in the College, ranking the Lions 14th among Division III colleges across the nation. Thanks to Bonitatis and sophomore John Barnett (149 pounds), the Lions will not have to rely solely on the performances of their more experienced wrestlers. They can also expect a strong showing from their younger stars. The team opens up its winter warpath tonight in Packer Hall against the Ducks of Stevens Institute of Technology. — Steve Cohen, Staff Writer The Cheap Seats If he can’t make it there, can he make it anywhere? By Steve Cohen Staff Writer Let me start by saying I have no vendetta against Stephon Marbury. In fact, I have more of a grudge against the Knicks for trading Patrick Ewing to the Supersonics more than eight years ago. However, if I ever hear another group of people start a Marbury chant, I will do something that makes the guy from “No Country for Old Men” look like Bugs Bunny. As I said earlier, I have no personal beef with the artist formerly known as Starbury, but let’s be realistic: This is a man who signed an $80 million contract to put up the numbers you would hope to get from your second-best bench player. 13.9 points and 4.7 assists is, in my opinion, unacceptable for the second highest-paid point guard in the league. However, Steph is finally doing something to contribute to his estranged team this season. How is he doing this? By riding the bench. Is he doing so willingly? Of course not. But who cares? Coach Mike D’Antoni has the right idea. He doesn’t care who it pisses off. Marbury will re- ceive less playing time than I will from the Knicks in the foreseeable future under the new Knicks head coach. There is no point in trying to go over D’Antoni’s head, because after meeting with new team president Donnie Walsh, Marbury learned the front office is completely backing D’Antoni’s decision. Unless all three of the Knicks’ top guards — Chris Duhon, Jamal Crawford and Nate Robinson — come down with an incurable disease simultaneously, I think it’s safe to say Stephon Marbury’s days as a New York Knick are in the past. Let’s be honest. No matter how good his numbers were in the past, the statistics are misleading. He may have averaged more than 19 points and close to eight assists a game in his 12-year career, but how many times has he helped any of his teams make the playoffs? Four times, plus, he only made it with the Knicks the year he was traded halfway through the season and didn’t have a chance to ruin the mechanics of their offense. The New Jersey Nets failed to make the playoffs all three years Marbury was AP Photo Steph’s getting paid $20 million to check out the scenery in New York. Staff writer Steve Cohen is slightly angry about this. a member of their team. However, after Stephon was traded to the Suns for Jason Kidd, the Nets won two consecutive Eastern Conference championships, reaching the playoffs six years in a row. What does the future hold for the former All-Star? Who the hell knows? I’d say he could go overseas, but I don’t think anyone would want him. They are getting enough players who still have talent at this point. I would say he should give the CBA a call, but the Knicks’ other greatest acquisition this past decade, Isaiah Thomas, caused the CBA to go bankrupt years ago, so I guess that’s out of the question, too. All jokes aside, Marbury is still young enough to turn his career back around for the better. One thing’s for sure, though: He’s got to get on the court to make that happen, and that sure as hell isn’t going to happen while he’s a New York Knickerbocker. page 26 The Signal November 12, 2008 America Recycles Day is Friday, Nov. 15. Google Images Recycle your issue of The Signal! We better not see issues thrown about campus! [email protected] November 12, 2008 The Signal page 27 Cross Country Lions zero in on Rangers Young Lions lead Field Hockey By Kristina L. Shemming Staff Writer had a fantastic day for the Lions, posting three of the four goals on the day. The Lions concluded their Also taking part in the ofregular season in convincing fensive attack was Reuther, who fashion on Tuesday, as they shut notched three assists on the day, out the visiting Rangers Rangers 0 improving her total to of Drew University, 4-0. 11 for the season. “Two Lions 4 of the three assists were They got the ball rolling early in the first half on on corners. My role on their Senior Day celebration as penalty corners allows me the freshman forward Alex Okuni- opportunity to distribute the ball ewicz knocked in a feed from to my teammates and they had senior midfielder Katie Reuther some great touches on the ball less than two minutes into the to get it on the cage,” Reuther game. said. “We put a lot of offensive While the Lions were putting pressure on goal against Drew on an offensive clinic, workand were able to get offensive ing the ball through the field, corners,” sophomore forward the defense did not allow the Leigh Mitchell said. Mitchell Rangers to unload a single shot. Freshman goalies Shannon Syciarz and Shannon Barch didn’t even have to record a save in the shutout. “Our offense really worked our passing game well and kept it in our offensive end the majority of the game. We had good support and kept the pressure on goal,” Mitchell said. The Lions return to the field on Saturday, where they will face the winner of a preliminary round in the first round of the NCAA tournament beginning at 11 a.m. “The keys to success for postseason are good communication and supporting our teammates throughout the field,” Reuther said. “If we work together, we will be able to accomplish anything.” Tim Lee / Photo Assistant The Lions showed they are ready for the national stage, ending the season with a shutout victory over Drew University. team at ECAC’s By Danny Gustave Pazos Staff Writer The 2008 Eastern College Athletic Conference Division III Championships were held on Saturday at Colt State Park in Bristol, R.I. Both the Lions’ men’s and women’s teams finished in ninth place. Freshman Sara Smith took 37th in 25:07 in the 6-kilometer run and senior Sara Best came in 56th in 25:32. Sophomore Noelle Gotthardt took 68th while freshman Annie Amitrani took 69th despite finishing with the same time of 25:51. Junior Denise Belz was the final runner to score for the Lions. She came in 81st place with a time of 26:03. The College’s women’s team, ranked 19th nationally, scored a total of 294 points. The Lions’ men’s team was led by both a senior and a freshman. Veteran Brian Kopnicki took 36th place, touring the 8-kilometer course in 27:43. Finishing close behind him was freshman Nick Bond, who took 37th in a time of 27:47. Freshman Shaun McGeever finished in 43rd place on the day in 27:56. Sophomore Kyle Roos followed, claiming 56th in 28:05, and freshman Kevin Schickling earned an 83rd-place finish in 28:35. The 25th-ranked Lions posted Rookie Sara Smith was the women’s top performer. a final score of 254 points. The women’s side of the competition saw second-ranked Williams College win the championship with a score of 23 points, while 29th-ranked Amherst College finished in second with 75 points. The men’s competition had a similar finish, with Williams taking the championship once again. The eighth-ranked Ephs put up 64 points for the win. Keene State College took second with 100 points. The College’s men’s and women’s teams will travel next week to the 2008 NCAA Division III Atlantic Regional Championships, held at St. Lawrence University in Canton, N.Y. The meet will determine the region’s 2008 qualifiers for the NCAA Division III Championship on Nov. 22. Playoff Preview Year of the Lion? The march for an NCAA crown By Kristina L. Shemming Staff Writer It’s a familiar time of year for the College’s dominant field hockey program. The time has arrived for the 15-2 Lions to avenge last year’s Elite Eight loss to Middlebury College and begin their quest for a 2008 Division III National Championship. The Lions are no strangers to success this year, claiming a conference championship and falling to only two opponents, both of whom were nationally ranked. The Lions will get their chance Saturday when they head to Tufts University in Medford, Mass., to face the winner of Wednesday’s game between the Blue Jays of Johns Hopkins University (16-4) and the Captains of Christopher Newport University (13-6). The Lions downed the Blue Jays earlier this year in convincing 3-0 fashion. The team has been inspired by a resilient senior class that boasts key contributors on both offense and defense. “The past three years in the postseason we’ve caused our own demise and I think that’s the most heartbreaking part for us to accept. It’s our motivation to play better and to never take any game for granted,” senior defender Kelly Mitchell said. Mitchell, the 2007 Longstreth/NFHCA Division III First Team All-American and NJAC Defensive Player of the Year, has helped anchor a Lions’ defense that holds a conference-best .85 goals against average. “Her skills on the field and her leadership make it much more comfortable for me in the cage,” freshman goalie Shannon Syciarz said. Mitchell has experienced a multitude of personal and team successes in her four years here, but has yet to reach a Final Four. “Our senior class has never made it to the Final Four, and it’s been our goal to make it there ever since our season ended last year,” Mitchell said. It is a goal that has replayed in their minds despite the difficulties that accompanied their team since the first day of preseason camp in August. “As far as last year, we do not want to end up where we did with a loss in the Regional Tim Lee / Photo Assistant After an unlikely return from a preseason elbow injury, senior forward Jackie Gelinas is ready to lead the Lions into the postseason. Tim Lee / Photo Assistant Senior forward Jenny Lubin has been within reach of a national title before, but this year she believes her team will hoist the hardware. Championship. This year we are going all the way,” senior forward Kendra Boyd said. Mitchell’s younger sister, freshman forward Leigh Mitchell, has found the perfect way to complement her big sister’s defensive efforts. She enters the postseason with a team-leading 16 goals on the year. “I am really happy to be able to contribute all I can to this team, especially the senior class,” the younger Mitchell said. “They are a great group of leaders and role models for the younger players and I can speak for everyone on the team in saying that we want to give the seniors the best season they can possibly have.” The Lions’ success on both ends has been aided by the outstanding play of Syciarz in the net. “She has a calm reassurance about her that not only keeps her own head in the game, but all of us playing defense as well,” Kelly Mitchell said. It will be the first time freshman Syciarz will experience the mania of a collegiate postseason, but her teammates are encouraged by her confidence on the field. “I’m so excited for postseason. The whole team has been working hard all season and this is the perfect time to show it,” Syciarz, who has 62 saves in 17 games for the Lions, said. It has been an interesting year for the Lions, who were plagued at different points in the season by injuries to their senior leaders, forward Jenny Lubin and midfielder Jackie Gelinas. “This year especially has been very challenging (injuries, new turf, etc.) and it would mean so much to see all our hard work pay off,” senior midfielder Katie Reuther said. With a victory, the Lions would return to the field on Sunday in a 2 p.m. start. It could be a dream come true for the Lions who, if they get to the round of eight, will face their long-time rivals, the Falcons of Messiah College. The Lions will get their first chance to reverse years of postseason frustration when they take the field at 11 a.m. Saturday. “We know have the skill and heart to do great things in postseason,” Kelly Mitchell said. “We just have to act on it and prove it to everyone else.” page 28 The Signal November 12, 2008 Are you on vacation? Google Images You can read The Signal wherever you are! Just hop on a computer and visit: signal-online.net November 12, 2008 The Signal page 29 Women’s Soccer Loss leaves Lions down, but not out By James Queally Sports Editor The torch has been passed. Searching for a fourth straight New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) title, the Lions ran into a roadblock in Glassboro, N.J., Nov. 5 as eventual tournament winner Rowan University dropped the Lions 2-1. The crushing loss ended the Lions’ streak of three conference tournament wins, but the team still earned an at-large bid to the NCAA Division III tournament, which will kick off this weekend. With their automatic bid, the Profs will host a portion of the bracket when they open up against SUNY-Oneonta this weekend. The Lions will travel to Skidmore College, where they face Moravian College Saturday. With the NJAC rivals on opposite ends of the bracket, they can only have a rematch in the tournament final. “Our loss at Rowan was very disappointing, especially considering our record this year didn’t guarantee us a postseason bid without winning the conference,” senior midfielder Jillian Casey said. “Not only have we won the NJAC tournament the past three years, but we have made it to the final four each of those years as well, so it was very difficult to face the fact that our season may have been cut short so suddenly.” Lions Rowan was aggressive on their home turf, slowing the Lions’ nor- Profs mally furious offensive attack. Two of the Profs’ rookies put the ball in the net early, setting the tone for the evening. Freshman midfielder Nina Fragoso found classmate and midfielder Veronica Rhea in the box halfway through the first period, and the rookie rocketed the pass behind the Li- Slip / Owls beat women Swimming Courtesy of the Sports Information Desk Despite some late heroics from senior forward Jamie Kunkel, Rowan still bested the Lions 2-1 in their NJAC semifinal tilt. ons’ junior goalkeeper Jessica Clarke to put the Profs up 1-0. After the opening score, the match became a defensive battle that saw the Profs successfully limit the Lions’ shot count. Throughout the season, the Lions have dominated the shots-on-goal category, chipping away at opposing keepers on the way to victory. But the Profs outshot their rivals from the College six to four in the first half and 13-11 overall. Rowan junior Sarah Volkomer, who was honored as the NJAC Goalkeeper of the Year, frustrated the Lions for the second time this season, snaring nine saves on the night. Clarke only managed four saves, allowing 1 two goals on Wednesday. The second Prof score came 2 with only 2:48 to play, killing any hope the Lions had of forcing overtime. Sophomore forward Jess Babice found the back of the net when she went one on one with Clarke and blasted a shot into the upper right hand corner to make it 2-0. Lion senior forward Jamie Kunkel gave her squad a chance with 22 seconds remain- ing, beating Volkomer for the second time this season off an assist from Casey, but the clock ran out on the Lions’ title chances before they could score again. Wednesday’s semifinal win was the Profs’ first over the Lions since 1996. The teams tied 1-1 during a midseason encounter where Kunkel became the first player to slip a goal past Volkomer all year. Rowan (15-0-2) shut out top-seeded Montclair State University on Saturday to win the conference crown. While the sting from the defeat remains, Casey says Monday’s announcement that the team would play on reenergized the Lions. “When we found out that we received a bid to the tournament, the team was absolutely ecstatic,” Casey said. “We’re very excited for the opportunity and looking forward to extending the season as long as possible.” James Queally can [email protected]. be reached at Win / Lions can finish .500 Football Signal File Photo The Lion defense came to life for the first time since the Homecoming victory, capitalizing on four Colonial turnovers to edge closer to .500. Their record now stands at 4-5. continued from page 32 week as James, who did not see any playing time against SUNYCortland, got the start and finished 11-18 for 140 yards and a touchdown. The Lions have only one more game at home against rival Rowan University left in their 2008 campaign. They will hope to ride the emotional high attained from the road win at WCSU into the finale against the Profs. “The win was a big morale booster. We have Rowan next week, and we just want to beat them. That would make us all happy,” Misiura said. Doing so would bring the Lions’ record back to 5-5 for the season, and give them a two-game win streak to build on next fall. Hamilton echoed Misiura’s sentiment and feels that Rowan’s team — which stands at 7-2 (6-2 NJAC) — poses a big challenge and an even bigger chance for the decidedly young Lions roster to grow up in a hurry. “As far as this week’s game, we know a couple of things: it is our last game of the year, and it comes against a quality opponent,” Hamilton said. “Our team, especially our younger guys, need to be excited about the opportunity playing Rowan at this time of the year. It gives us a chance to finish the season on a good note.” The battle for sports supremacy at this school will never end. But whether you’re a Philly fanatic, a Jersey jaw jacker or a loudmouth obnoxious New York fan (like me), you can let your voice be heard. Want to praise or punish your local sports teams? Submit a topic for The Cheap Seats. Read it on page 27. Mike Smith / Photo Assistant Despite losing on the road, the Lions looked impressive against tough D-II competition. continued from page 32 completed the 200 freestyle in 2:02.13. Junior Brittany Collyer also finished first in the 200 individual medley in 2:16.78. The Lions finished the meet on top, taking first in the 200-yard freestyle relay with a team comprising junior Ashley Robb, Collyer, Pierce and Varvaro. Sunday, the men’s and women’s teams traveled to New Haven, Conn., to take on Division II opponent Southern Connecticut State University. In the men’s meet, the Lions clipped the wings of the Owls, defeating them 162-120. Medvecky and junior Myles O’Connor each won two events to lead the College to its fifth win of the season. Medvecky took first in the 100- and 200-yard butterfly events (52.43, 1:56.99), while O’Connor bested the competition in the 100- and 200-yard breaststroke (57.82, 2:10.54). Other highlights from the men’s meet included a 1,000-yard freestyle victory by sophomore Tim Rauch, who won the event in 10:07.19, and a 3-meter diving event win by freshman TJ Burns, who scored 212.15 in the victory. “I think the one thing that is driving everyone is the opportunity to become better than we were last year,” Medvecky said. “We placed seventh at NCAA’s and that got everyone excited. This year we know we are capable of much more.” When asked how the swimmers relate to each other around this time in the season, coach Brian Bishop said, “It’s like a domino effect, when one guy steps up and the rest follow.” In a close meet, the women’s team suffered their first loss of the season, falling to the D-II Owls, 156-142, dropping to 4-1 on the season. Freshman Traci Hofer recorded three wins for the College, despite the loss. Hofer finished first in the 100 freestyle in 54.64 and was also part of winning 200 and 400 freestyle medley teams for the Lions. Also on the 200 medley team were Varvaro, Morgan and Pierce, while the 400-yard medley team comprising Pierce, Varvaro and freshman Melissa Hessler. Pierce also took first in the 50 freestyle event, finishing in 25.13. “It is very physically and mentally challenging to swim two big meets backto-back,” Delahanty said. “But I am so proud of each and every one of the girls.” Next up for the Lions is a trip to Bloomsburg University on Nov. 21. page 30 The Signal November 12, 2008 4 6 LIONS AROUND THE DORM 5 3 Michael O’Donnell “The Ref” Duncan Slobodzian Staff Writer Brandon Lee Staff Writer Justin Jez Staff Writer Around the Dorm playoffs are here, baby. The top six sports squawkers will face off in a three-week tournament for ultimate bragging rights. The two semifinal winners and one wild card will meet in an epic final battle in the Dec. 3 issue of The Signal. This week, No. 2 seed Justin Jez, No. 4 seed Duncan Slobodzian and No. 6 seed Brandon Lee fight about the AFC East, Jake Peavy and the NBA. Suicidal Cubs fan Mike O’Donnell will judge. 1. Thanks to Tom Brady, the AFC East is one of the most muddled divisions in football. The top two teams stand atop the division at 6-3, with the Dolphins and Pats close behind at 54. Who is going to win that division and why? AP Photo DS: It’s going to be a dog fight, don’t get me wrong, but the good old New York Jets are going to close the deal. After all the hoopla surrounding the Brett Favre signing died down, the reality set in for the Jets faithful (myself included): We have a high-risk, highreward quarterback who can make any game a nailbiter. That said, the 6-3 record that puts the Jets in a tie for first already denotes a twogame improvement from last season’s 4-12. Gang Green has shown they can more than hang with the rest of the division: They lost by a narrow margin to the Pats in the Meadowlands, they went up to Buffalo to beat the Bills and they topped the suddenly resurgent Dolphins down in Miami. While the defense looks questionable at times and the offense often struggles with finding an identity, the Jets have set themselves up to make a run. If they can continue winning the games they are supposed to win, and some they aren’t (like this Thursday’s game in New England), they can make the turnaround a reality and go from second-worst to first. BL: I was about to choose the Jets to win, but then I thought Brett Favre was a pick six waiting to happen, and you can’t have that in your quarterback. Buffalo is 0-3 in the division. The Patriots don’t have a running game to protect their new quarterback and the secondary is terrible without Asante Samuel. The Patriots defense is also too old to stay healthy and produce the entire season. So that leaves the former 1-15 Miami Dolphins. Defense and forced turnovers win championships. The Dolphins are second in the AFC with a plus-9 turnover differential, second to only the Tennessee Titans, who have a plus10 turnover differential. Forcing turnovers is extremely important during a game and keeps your offense on the field and your defense off it. The Patriots are No. 7, the Jets are No. 12 and the Bills are No. 13 in the AFC in that category. The Dolphins have a creative offense to mask their personnel flaws. If you focus your defense on Ronnie Brown, you’ll have to deal with Ricky Williams, Ted Ginn Jr. or even Chad Pennington. That’s how creative the Dolphins offense is. JJ: My guess is either the Jets or the Pats will win the division. It would have been the Pats outright, but as I am writing this I heard the Jets won by nearly a million points an hour ago. Despite Brady’s injury, the Pats are built to win. Belichick simply keeps his teams mentally sharp and prepares his teams better than anyone in the league (even if he sometimes cheats). When the playoffs come, the Pats should be there. Unless Favre pulls off some of his magic, I see the Jets finishing somewhere around 10-6 and second in the division. Despite key injuries, the Pats have been playing good football. They’ll be healthy soon and will finish the season strong. MO: This was a tough one to call, but I’m going to give the 3 to Brandon. As crazy as it sounds, you have to be impressed with the Dolphins’ turnover ratio and their Wildcat offense, which has them rolling through their weaker schedule this season. Duncan gets a very close 2 for pointing out how the Jets are actually winning games they’re supposed to this season, and not just the ones they aren’t. Sorry Jez, but you get the 1 for not providing enough backup on this question. 2. Jake Peavy has been the talk of the offseason baseball world, with several teams bidding for his services. As of now, the Cubs and Braves are the front-runners for him, with the Dodgers being tabbed as the long shot. Who is going to land the former Cy Young winner? DS: I’ll say the Cubbies, if for no other reason than they are the most high-end and prominent locale. The Braves have lost a lot of their 14-straight NL East luster, and the Dodgers stand somewhat in disarray. There are plenty of questions surrounding the pitching staffs of those two teams, but few will question the abilities of Chicago’s finest: Carlos Zambrano and Rich Harden are already in place, and adding a talent of Peavy’s caliber could make for a downright frightening rotation. The Cubs are coming off an immensely disappointing finish to 2008 (not that you would have to remind their fans) — over three NLDS games, they lost what took an entire year to build. If they are able to bring in Peavy, it could do wonders as far as rejuvenating an otherwise devastated city. Peavy might well be chomping at the bit when he thinks about the golden opportunity that lies ahead in Chi-town. AP Photo farm for Peavy and then add more to a ballooning payroll. The Cubs also traded away Sean Gallagher, their top prospect, to the Athletics for Rich Harden. JJ: O’Donnell wants me to say that he’ll go to the Cubs. Then he wants to hear something like, “They’ll be so good and they’ll finally make it to the World Series (maybe just win a series), and finish with the best record in the league once again.” Well, for lack of a better thought, I will say that. Seriously, baseball trades come down to money. The Dodgers are looting piggy banks to pay Manny, so they’re out. So, it’s between the Braves and the Cubbies. Personally, I think the Cubs need to land Peavy to get some momentum going into the season and show their fans that they are proactive in trying to win a World Series, building around their talented team. They will pay the extra cash to get him this offseason. MO: Seeing as the media have tabbed the Cubs as the front-runner, I’ve got to give the top spots to those who picked the Cubs. Duncan gets the 3 for citing that Peavy is indeed chomping at the bit to play in Chicago. It’s his top choice at this time. Jez gets the 2 for for patronizing me and for not saying why the Cubs need Peavy for momentum. Brandon, the Cubs have made it known whom they are offering, including infielder Ronny Cedeno, Sean Marshall or Rich Hill, another young major leaguer and a pitching prospect. 1 point. 3. The NBA season is off to a roaring start, with the Lakers and Celtics being picked for a rematch. Will this happen again? Or is there a dark horse these elite teams should fear? DS: It’s always a tough proposition to predict a finals rematch, and even though the early season returns have provided little evidence to the contrary, I have to dissent. I think there are too many hungry and talented teams out there — particularly in the Eastern Conference — to say that the same two teams will be ushered in. I think this may well be Cleveland’s year to break through; last year, they had the Celtics up against the ropes and took scrappernation.com BL: Peavy will be a Brave. The Cubs simply don’t have enough prospects to land him. It isn’t known what the Cubs are offering, but the Braves are offering a package of Yunel Escobar, left-hander Jo-Jo Reyes or righthander Charlie Morton and a third player, who should be a top prospect. In that package you’re getting a solid major leaguer and a choice between top pitching prospects, along with another top prospect. The Cubs had the seventh-highest payroll in baseball at $118 million in 2008 and are also looking to re-sign Ryan Dempster. They would have to trade the them seven hard-fought games in the conference finals. This year, it’s hard to forsee LeBron letting them falter if the same situation arises. He’s the kind of player who can will a team to victory and make his teammates better. On the other coast, the Lakers look real strong but will have to contend with the usual powerhouses: San Antonio, Dallas, New Orleans and the other contender du jour. I think Portland is primed to make a run, even sans Greg Oden. Rookie phenomenon Rudy Fernandez, coupled with bona fide stud Brandon Roy, make for a backcourt on pace with many of the other playoff-bound teams. BL: The Celtics have a big three and now the Rockets have a big three. If Ron Artest continues to keep his demeanor the way it is now, the Rockets will be a force to reckon with. He’s the enforcer and the heart the Rockets have been lacking with Tracy McGrady and Yao Ming at the helm. Not only do you have Shane Battier to shadow the likes of Kobe Bryant, but you have Artest to throw at him as well when he’s not protecting T-Mac and Yao. On offense, Artest can do a little of everything, from shooting the three to working the low post with Yao. JJ: These two should make the finals again, but the NBA season is a long and dangerous one. Any major injury to either of these teams could deny them a finals appearance. Kobe decided to forgo finger surgery in the offseason, Lamar Odom has a history of major shoulder problems and Andrew Bynum could reinjure his new knee. On the C’s side, the “Big 3” are all over 30 and due for some nicks and bangs. In the East, Detroit and the Cavaliers are good candidates to benefit from a Celtics injury. LeBron proved a couple of years ago that he can lead a team through the East himself, while the Iverson trade has recently made Detroit a true contender. Over in the West, Houston and New Orleans could usurp the Lakeshow, barring a major injury. Houston’s own “Big 3” could prove a real force as they get used to Ron Artest, and NO looks good with Chris Paul and the gang healthy (for the most part) and one year more experienced. But, all things being equal, it should come down to another Lakeshow-Celts finals matchup. MO: Brandon gets the 3 on this query for citing the Rockets as the top contender to the Lakers’ Western Conference throne and how their new acquisition can help them on both sides of the floor. As much as I think the Lakers are going to take it this season, the Rockets do offer the biggest challenge with their “Big 3.” Jez gets the 2 for discussing the Lakers’ injury questions, even though you really can’t predict an injury. Duncan, the Blazers? Unlikely. Enough said, 1 point. Brandon is finals bound, 7-6-5. Duncan stays alive as a possible wild card. “If the playoffs started today the Knicks would be there.” - Brandon - November 12, 2008 The Signal page 31 LIONS ROUNDUP Swimming Date 10/25/2008 10/26/2008 11/1/2008 11/8/2008 11/15/2008 11/21/2008 11/22/2008 11/23/2008 12/5/2008 12/6/2008 12/7/2008 1/17/2009 1/24/2009 1/25/2009 1/31/2009 2/20/2009 2/21/2009 2/22/2009 vs. vs. @ @ @ @ @ @ vs. vs. vs. vs. vs. vs. @ @ @ @ Opponent Time/Result Montclair State University Stevens Institute of Tech. Ramapo College Franklin and Marshall Col. So. Conn. State University Bloomsburg University Bucknell U. Invitational Bucknell U. Invitational Lions’ Invitational Lions’ Invitational Lions’ Invitational C.W. Post New York University William Paterson University Rowan University Metro. Conference Champs. Metro. Conference Champs. Metro. Conference Champs. W 193.5-105.5 W 172.5-89.5 W 111-72 W 121-81 W 162-120 5 p.m. 9 a.m./5 p.m. 9 a.m./5 p.m. TBA TBA TBA 2 p.m. 2 p.m. 2 p.m. 1 p.m. 9:30 a.m. 9:30 a.m. 9:30 a.m. Womenʼs Soccer ## PLAYER GP G A Pts Sh Shot% GW PK-AT ------------------------------------------------------------7 Jamie Kunkel 19 9 8 26 74 .122 2 0-1 23 Maria Grady 12 1 1 3 4 .250 0 0-0 13 Jillian Casey 19 4 3 11 25 .160 0 0-0 27 Coleen Weber 19 5 2 12 43 .116 1 0-0 25 Brianna Brennan 19 0 1 1 8 .000 0 0-0 5 Julianne Delorenzo 18 1 1 3 9 .111 0 0-0 30 Jaclyn Levowsky 17 0 1 1 4 .000 0 0-0 14 Casey Caruso 19 7 0 14 36 .194 3 0-0 29 Kelly Fenney 14 0 0 0 2 .000 0 0-0 15 Melissa Martin 19 0 1 1 2 .000 0 0-0 9 Eva Gimello 5 1 1 3 3 .333 0 0-0 6 Allie Schilling 16 3 1 7 28 .107 1 0-0 16 Gina Colati 7 1 1 3 1 1.000 0 0-0 28 Laura Delaney 19 8 1 17 43 .186 1 0-0 4 Nikki Migliori 18 0 5 5 8 .000 0 0-0 24 Momoko Aoe 18 2 1 5 10 .200 0 0-0 3 Erin Cunliffe 19 10 2 22 42 .238 2 0-0 2 Brenna Rubino 6 1 2 4 11 .091 0 0-0 Total............... Opponents........... 19 19 56 13 38 150 396 13 39 134 .141 .097 12 6 0-1 0-1 Lion of the Week Justin Beres Football Junior defensive back Justin Beres intercepted three passes against Western Connecticut State University to lead the Lions to a 30-20 victory on Saturday. Each of Beres’ interceptions came in the first half off three consecutive Colonial possessions. The College is now 4-5, and Beres’ play will be key in the Lions’ upcoming rivalry game against Rowan University this weekend. —Bobby Olivier, Sports Assistant This Week In Sports Football November 15 vs. Rowan University, 12 p.m. Womenʼs Soccer November 15 @ Moravian College, NCAA First Round, TBA November 16 @ NCAA First Round, TBA Cross Country November 15 @ NCAA Atlantic Regional Championships, 11 a.m. Field Hockey ## PLAYER GP G A Pts Sh Shot% GW PS-AT -----------------------------------------------------------4 Leigh Mitchell 17 16 5 37 80 .200 2 0-0 15 Alex Okuniewicz 17 14 3 31 35 .400 4 3-3 1 Kendra Boyd 17 9 2 20 30 .300 1 0-0 24 Katie Reuther 17 5 11 21 43 .116 1 0-1 10 Gabby Cafone 17 8 1 17 53 .151 3 0-0 3 Jackie Gelinas 10 4 9 17 20 .200 1 0-0 13 Jenny Lubin 12 4 2 10 20 .200 3 0-0 19 Kelly Mitchell 17 0 6 6 26 .000 0 0-0 6 Kellyn Riley 12 2 1 5 10 .200 0 0-0 5 Allie Barrington 9 0 2 2 1 .000 0 0-0 17 Mary Waller 17 0 1 1 14 .000 0 0-0 18 Maggie Rarich 13 0 1 1 5 .000 0 0-0 8 Kacey Reichhard 7 0 0 0 3 .000 0 0-0 2 Leah Geissler 15 0 0 0 2 .000 0 0-0 88 Shannon Syciarz 17 0 0 0 0 .000 0 0-0 77 Sammi Brach 6 0 0 0 0 .000 0 0-0 29 Michele Montalbano 4 0 0 0 0 .000 0 0-0 25 Kristen O’Neill 17 0 0 0 0 .000 0 0-0 Total............... Opponents........... 17 62 17 15 44 168 342 10 40 127 .181 .118 15 2 3-4 1-1 Wrestling November 12 vs. Stevens Institute of Technology, 7 p.m. November 16 @ Ursinus College Fall Brawl, 10 a.m. Field Hockey November 15-16 @ NCAA Regional Round, Medford, Mass., 2 p.m. Menʼs Basketball November 15 vs. Lehman College, 7 p.m. November 18 @ Brooklyn College, 5:30 p.m. Womenʼs Basketball November 15-16 @ Stevens Tip-off Tournament, 1 p.m. November 18 @ Mount Saint Mary College, 7 p.m. Trivia Question Game of the Week Last Weekʼs Answer: Los Angeles Lakers (Swept 4-0 in finals) The College’s field hockey team will travel to Tufts University on Nov. 15 for a four-team NCAA regional tournament. The Lions will play the winner NCAA Regionals between Johns Hopkins University and Tufts University Christopher Newport University to keep Nov. 15-16, 2 p.m. their national championship hopes alive. The New York Jetsʼ historic 47-3 defeat of the St. Louis Rams was their largest margin of victory in franchise history. What team did the Jets previously have their largest margin of victory against? Field Hockey