Breaking news, blogs, and more at TCNJSignal.net. Vol. CXXIX, No. 9
October 29, 2014
Serving The College of New Jersey community since 1885
Students and alumni show Lion pride College hosts
Tim Lee / Photo Emeritus
Tailgating for the Homecoming game takes place in Lots 4 and 6. Even though the day’s festivities were originally to be separated by age, everyone enjoys a unified space. By Ellie Schuckman News Assistant In a celebration with alumni, current students, families and friends, Homecoming 2014 was a way for all to gather in festivity despite the controversies leading up to it. Centered on the tailgating in parking lots 4 and 6 on Saturday, Oct. 25, police and other security officers were on guard to prevent the anticipated presence of underage drinking, with new measures in place, including two separate fenced in areas for those in attendance. “(This year’s Homecoming) is very much structured but still has the same spirit,” said Joshua Kocses, class of ’02. During halftime of the Lions football game, the highly anticipated Homecoming King and Queen were announced, with the crowns going to seniors Ryan Boyne and Courtney McGovern. “It’s been a really cool experience,” McGovern said, an early childhood education and integrative STEM double major. “It was so much fun being with everyone in the court.” Both Boyne and McGovern were pleasantly surprised they had won, with Boyne “not expecting” their victory.
Throughout the day, people could enjoy the Homecoming MainStage, located on the Green Hall lawn, with performances from the College’s Taiko Club, Circus Club, Musical Theater Club, the newly added Pep Band and much more, while snacking on free popcorn and cotton candy. Many felt the addition of MainStage, which also featured a rock climbing wall, face painting and circus games such as ring toss, made the day more kid-friendly for former students who now have children of their own.
“It was my first Homecoming as a college student, and it couldn’t have been any better.” — MaryAnn Corcione, freshman chemistry major
“There’s a lot of changes,” said Michael Coppola, class of ’02, commenting on how the events were more suited for younger attendees. On the other side of campus, while performances were held, students and alumni gathered to celebrate with friends in the
INDEX: Nation & World / Page 5
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tailgate. Upon entry, bags were checked, and everyone 21 received a wristband indicating if they were of legal age to drink. “It’s definitely different,” junior chemistry major Andy Glass said. “My freshman year, you could literally walk right in.” In Lot 4, D.J.s were blasting music, while many brought their own food and grills for fresh barbecue. Outside the
Rathskeller, the Beer Garden was set-up for those 21 and over. On the Sundial Lawn, the annual Gridiron Homecoming BBQ took place, serving hot foods including ribs and pulled pork for a $15 pre-registration admission fee and $20 at the gate. Registration also included separate bleacher seats for the football game. Though the Lions lost the game to William Paterson 21-0, the College’s Dance Team and cheerleaders tried to liven the crowd with their performances while the Pep Band played from the bleachers — their first performance at a football game since being approved by Student Government just over one month ago. “It was my first Homecoming as a college student, and it couldn’t have been any better,” freshman chemistry major MaryAnn Corcione said. “It was a lot of fun.” Following the game, the winners of Spirit Week were announced, with top honors going to Sigma Lambda Beta, Sigma Kappa and Alpha Epsilon Pi. Regardless of the few changes made, many believe that Homecoming was still a fun experience. “It’s just a great time, and you can enjoy it no matter what,” junior elementary education and integrative STEM double major John Rothman said.
Editorial / Page 7
Heiner Fallas / Staff Photographer
Congressional race events By Gabrielle Beacken News Assistant
The College hosted two separate political events this past week as the New Jersey 12th District Congressional Election, which will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 4, quickly approaches. The 12th District includes portions of Union, Somerset, Middlesex and Mercer counties — including Ewing Township. The events included a debate between the Democratic candidate, Bonnie Watson Coleman, and Republican candidate, Dr. Alieta Eck, on Wednesday, Oct. 22, and a Candidate’s Forum on Friday, Oct. 24. Director of the international studies program and assistant professor of political science Brian Potter moderated both events. Wednesday’s debate, held in the packed Mayo Concert Hall, highlighted several critical national and campus-related issues. Such topics included federal legalization of gay see CONGRESS page 2
Spirit Week a fierce feud By Sydney Shaw Opinions Editor
Culminating in the Homecoming tailgate and football game on Saturday, Oct. 25, the College’s 27th annual Spirit Week was replete with field games, giveaways, green screen photo shoots and live musical performances. This year’s theme centered on HBO Shows: Fraternities, sororities, club sports and other on-campus organizations then revealed their team banners in the Brower Student Center on Monday, Oct. 20. A “Game of Thrones” themed banner was brilliantly brought to life by Kappa Delta, Phi Alpha Delta and Delta Lambda Phi, reading “Homecoming is Coming.” A tribute to “True Blood” by Theta Phi Alpha and Phi Kappa Psi featured a fanged woman with blood dripping from her lips. For the series “John Adams,” Phi Sigma Sigma and Club Baseball made a banner and shirts that read “Join, or die,” the title of the show’s pilot episode. For
The cheerleaders and dance team perform at halftime. Opinions / Page 9
Features / Page 10
see SPIRIT page 2
Arts & Entertainment / Page 13
Sports / Page 24
QAM Two events spread awareness of LGBTQ issues
A concert for Epilepsy ‘Walking Dead’ star joins performers for charity
Intramural’s new director Rob Simels is named director of Recreation
See Features page 10
See A&E page 13
See Sports page 24
page 2 The Signal October 29, 2014
Spirit / School pride displayed for Homecoming Organized shirt swaps, banners, competitons
Students pose with Roscoe the Lion in the Student Center. continued from page 1 the show “Band of Brothers,” Delta Zeta, Sigma Pi and Lambda Theta Alpha brought camouflage colors, dog tags and other army elements into a football-themed banner.
Kyle Bennion / Photo Editor
On Tuesday, Oct. 21, students tie-dyed shirts blue and gold in the Brower Student Center until 2 p.m. The afternoon ended with a heated volleyball tournament. On Wednesday, Oct. 22, not even the pouring rain could stop the events taking
place on the Sundial Lawn throughout the day. Between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., organizations partook in nonstop activities like men’s cheerleading, women’s tug-of-war, a potato sack race, dizzy bat, a three-legged race and a human pyramid. Wednesday also marked the T-shirt swap headed by Student Government. Students traded in high school T-shirts or another college’s T-shirts for brand new Homecoming 2014 shirts. The event, funded by the Student Finance Board, garnered at least 350 T-shirts to donate to Goodwill. A free rally towel giveaway was hosted in the Brower Student Center on Thursday, Oct. 23, followed by the performance of a live band. Students at meal equiv were treated to the hip-hop/pop-rock sounds of cover band Under Pressure. According to the band’s website, Under Pressure is “a fresh and spunky female-fronted party band that has no problem captivating any crowd.” That night for another Homecoming activity, students participated in utensil wrapping for the Trenton Area Soup Kitchen, wrapping forks, spoons and knives. Friday, Oct. 24, was Blue and Gold Day, during which all students and staff were encouraged to represent the College by wearing school colors. The Homecoming
committee gave away blue and gold spirit items, blue and gold cupcakes and hosted blue and gold-themed green screen photos. The College’s mascot, Roscoe, even showed up for pictures. Finally, on Friday night, students gathered in the Recreation Center to enjoy the capstone of the Spirit Week events — the lip sync and dance competitions “I went and participated in last year’s event and thought it was spectacular — however, this year’s event exceeded my expectations,” sophomore class council president Robert Kinloch said. “As a brother of Phi Alpha Delta, I could not have been prouder of the way the guys from our fraternity and the girls of Kappa Delta sorority competed.” The Alpha Epsilon Pi fraternity, Sigma Kappa sorority and Sigma Lambda Beta fraternity won Homecoming Spirit Week after taking first place in the lip syncing and dance competitions and the banner competition. “The dance that (they) put on about ‘The Pacific’ was so astonishing that it gave me the chills,” Kinloch said. The brothers and sisters were able to enjoy Homecoming knowing they were the most school spirited — at least for this year.
Congress / Candidates contend for open seat
continued from page 1
marriage, public education, fracking, Middle Eastern relations, health care and campaign finance reform. “I believe I can make a difference,” Eck said. Being that there are no female physicians in Congress at this time, Eck, a practicing physician, believes she can be a valuable asset. Eck and her husband founded the Zarepath Health Center, a free clinic for “the poor and uninsured,” according to her official campaign website. Like Eck, Watson Coleman’s pointed out her expertise in her past experiences. “I’ve been a leader in the legislature, working with Republicans and Democrats,” she said. Watson Coleman is running with the support of current Democratic representative of New Jersey’s 12th District, Rush Holt, who has served in the New Jersey general assembly since 1998, representing the 15th District.
According to Watson Coleman’s website, she is the “first African-American woman to serve as Majority Leader of the New Jersey General Assembly and the first African-American woman to serve as Chair of the New Jersey Democratic State Committee.” The two candidates held contrasting views on several topics. While Eck was in favor of the possibility of sending ground troops to Syria and Iraq to combat ISIS, Watson Coleman argued that “boots on the ground is the last thing we should be doing.” Another disputing topic concerned fracking. Eck stated that fracking, when proceeding with safety and caution, would be an affordable source of energy, while Watson Coleman argued that fracking negatively impacts the environment. When answering a question about prison reform, Eck supported the decriminalization of marijuana, stating that especially for personal use, marijuana users
Kyle Bennion / Photo Editor
Eck says her medical experience could help in Congress.
should not be imprisoned. “New Jersey may follow Colorado,” Eck said. Watson Coleman responded by expressing her belief in the growth and expansion of drug courts, as well as providing treatment to addicts rather than following through on a policy of incarceration. The most heated debate topic of the event, which included several rebuttals by both parties, was the discussion of job growth and the government’s role in the economy. “Trenton has been treated poorly, but it can be an intellectual capital,” Watson Coleman said. Research facilities hosted in Trenton can create jobs, she added. “To increase jobs, get government out of the way — not government jobs, private sector jobs,” Eck said, rebutting her opponent’s statements. “Obamacare is the biggest job killer New Jersey has ever seen.” The second political event of the week was the Candidate’s Forum. According to an email distributed by College Relations to the campus community, all of the candidates were invited to attend, including: Allen J. Cannon (Democratic-Republican), Kenneth J. Cody (Truth Vision Hope), Bonnie Watson Coleman (Democratic), Don DeZarn (Legalize Marijuana Party), Alieta Eck (Republican), Jack Freudenheim (Start The Conversation), and Steven Welzer (Green Party). However, only four candidates — Cannon, Eck, Freudenheim and Welzer — attended and participated in the event. “The party system seems to be failing us,” Freudenheim said. “We’re all a little tired.” Welzer agrees that citizens, when casting their ballots, should have more than two chief options between their parties.
Kyle Bennion / Photo Editor
Welzer represents the Green Party at the College. “(We’ve) got to get beyond the only two-choice system,” Welzer said. “It’s important that we dissolve party lines and think of personal lives,” Cannon said. “(The Democratic-Republican Party is) the party that set up the constitution, the foundation of equity for all American citizens.” The federal legalization of gay marriage was the most discussed topic of the event, due to questions prompted by a student in the audience. The conversation delved deeper into the topic as the student prompted that the words “civil union” and “marriage” don’t carry the same social weight and equalities. “We are arguing over a word, not the right for one person to love another,” Cannon said. Cannon argued that the word “civil union” holds the same rights and protection as the word “marriage.” “We must respect the right of people to disagree,” Eck said, not in favor of the federal legalization
of gay marriage. “We must treat everyone with the utmost dignity, no matter what.” The topic of climate change also brought debate, as the Green Party promoted climate change as a valid and imminent threat. “Ninety-eight percent of scientists say there is a warming,” Welzer said in response to Eck’s claim that scientists cannot prove that human activity is causing climate change. “There is really little debate here.” “We know it’s happening,” Freudenheim said. “What can we do as a human race? We should take action.” Students, too, should be asking questions and receiving answers from political officials, said sophomore international studies major and executiveboard member of College Democrats Ambica Avancha. “I was surprised that more people are not informed,” Avancha said. “I think it’s important for students to be involved in politics.”
October 29, 2014 The Signal page 3
Keeping the Shore’s residents updated through Facebook
Hurricanes Irene and Sandy devastate New Jersey, especially hitting the shoreline hard. The natural disasters both happened within two years.
By Frank Festa Correspondent
In two years, New Jersey was hit by two strong hurricanes — Irene in 2011 and Sandy in 2012. During both those times, residents of the state had a place to turn to for information — the Facebook page of Jersey Shore Hurricane News. The founder of the page paid Janet Mazur’s Freshman Seminar Program class a visit this past Thursday, Oct. 23, to lecture on the impact he’s made on his community as well as the profound impact he believes we all can make. Justin Auciello, a native of South Seaside Park, created the Facebook page on Friday, Aug. 23, 2011. It was made with the intent to provide news about the weather in the days preceding Hurricane Irene. Auciello, or anyone else for that matter, could have predicted its growth. “By the end of the first night, there were 500 followers, which was shocking enough,” Auciello said. “The next morning, there were 5,000 followers. I couldn’t believe it.” After the passing of Irene, he kept the page alive even without a storm looming. “I tried to humanize the page,” Auciello said. “I’d make a post or two every day and comment on everything I could.” The page flourished and began to
garner national attention during and in the days following the cataclysm of Superstorm Sandy, one of New Jersey’s most devastating natural disasters. By this time however, JSHN was a twoway news platform where information flowed freely between people. “During Sandy, citizens would supply information, and my job was to package it, verify it and post it,” Auciello said. “If I’ve learned anything from this, it’s that people are good. I’ve always been an optimist.” Updates poured in from people with knowledge of the situation, keeping those in the heart of the storm aware — many of whom without access to tradition news. When the page’s activity in its climax took an unexpected turn, Auciello rose to the occasion. “It went from info news to lifesaving platform. People were posting after Sandy that they were trapped and needed help,” Auciello said. Due to a relationship formed with the local authorities, Auciello was able to turn JSHN into a bridge to salvation. “I urged these people to post their address, condition of and how many people they were with — relevant information,” Auciello said. “Police and fire departments would be notified, and help would arrive.”
The page would also play a critical crowdsourcing role, with patrons updating peers on information such as where to find food, clean water and cheap gas, as well as directing supplies to appropriate shelters. “I tried to keep JSHN updated on where to find supplies every half an hour,” he said. “I had shelters calling me to tell me to send supplies elsewhere because they had a surplus. But once something goes viral there’s no way to really delete that information.” His efforts with JSHN were recognized when Auciello received the Champion of Change award from the White House, given to individuals making profound impacts on their communities. “A woman called one day from the White House and invited me to visit with 12 other people and receive the award. I didn’t get to meet President Obama, but it still was a special experience” he said. Fast forward to present day, three years later, JSHN has accumulated over 226,000 followers. Mazur admits to being one of the many who keep an eye on Auciello’s page. “I was struck with the devastation caused by Sandy. I’ve been a subscriber to Jersey Shore Hurricane News for some time, and I love what you are doing,” Mazur said to Auciello. Moving forward, Auciello doesn’t plan to move far from his roots anytime soon.
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“I plan to stay social media based, because that’s where the people are and where news is broken,” he said. The website’s creator received his B.A. from Maryland University in criminal justice and criminology, and later received his masters in city and regional planning from Rutgers University. He currently holds a full-time job as an urban planner in addition to his activity online. Auciello fondly recalled times at 5 or 6 years old when he would chase fire trucks to the scene, or at 13 doing projects on interesting dog pictures as his journalistic inspiration. His goal was to impact his community and provide news in an innovative fashion. Humble certainly would be an appropriate adjective to describe him. “This couldn’t have been with just me,” Auciello said. “I simply provided people with a platform, this is all thanks to people who want to share information with each other and do the right thing.” Auciello not only enjoys what he does, but he points out that everyone can do something like what he did and help people. “It gives me purpose. I love my community and this was my way of giving back,” Auciello said. “It’s as simple as putting your foot out there and taking a chance. Everyone has the ability to be creative and make an impact.”
Want to be on the other side of this paper? We have a number of positions available!
page 4 The Signal October 29, 2014
LDP considers Stephen A. Smith, Mike Ditka Keynote speaker event is allocated $36,098
By Jonathan Edmondson Arts & Entertainment Editor
The Student Finance Board meeting on Wednesday, Oct. 22, included multiple proposals from the Leadership Development Program ahead of its planned LeadWeek. LDP’s first proposal was made in conjunction with the College Union Board and included plans for a keynote speaker during LeadWeek. The organization’s first choice is Daymond John,
founder, president and CEO of FUBU, an iconic fashion brand. Other options include ESPN commentators Stephen A. Smith or Mike Ditka. The event, which is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, Nov. 11, was allocated funds of $36,098. Other events from LDP included STUD Team Builders, a teamwork and communication activity scheduled to take place in the Brower Student Center on Friday. Nov 14. The event was allocated funds of $750.
In addition, the organization proposed for its 11th annual Leadership Lockup, scheduled to take place on Saturday, Jan. 11. The event was tabled for now. Other presenters included the Teachers of Young Children, who were allocated $1,900 to cover the costs of buses in order to transport students to the NJEA Convention in Atlantic City.
This event is the largest professional development conference in the nation and will take place on Thursday, Nov. 6, and Friday, Nov. 7. Finally, the Sophomore Class Council proposed to have a Sophomore Semi-Formal. The Class of 2017 hosted a similar event last year with much success and hopes to repeat that this year. The event was allocated funds of $9,380.17 and is scheduled to take place on Friday, Nov. 21.
Jelani Cobb explores the Ferguson controversy Brown goes from ‘man to victim to metaphor’ By Colleen Murphy News Editor
To shed some light on the infamous case of Michael Brown — the 18-year-old who was shot six times in Ferguson, M.O. over the summer — journalist, historian and University of Connecticut history professor Jelani Cobb gave the presentation “Between Us and the World: Ferguson, United States of America and The Lynching of Michael Brown,” to a full Mayo Concert Hall on Thursday, Oct. 23. Cobb painted a vivid picture of this summer’s shooting which has split the town of Ferguson and the country, saying that what actually angers people most about the Ferguson case stems from a deep history of race relations. Cobb spent nine days reporting from Ferguson in August and has made three trips there altogether. In his lecture, Cobb detailed what angers the citizens of Ferguson most about this case and from where that angers stems. The background of Ferguson revolves around the idea that when police officers fear for their lives — whether or not a subject is armed — they will protect themselves. And on Saturday, Aug. 9, police officer Darren Wilson claimed he feared for his life as he reported that Brown “punched and scratched” him as he was “pinned in his vehicle,” struggling over his gun.
Wilson fired his gun six times, killing Brown, but this account is the exact opposite of what many of the witnesses said they saw happen — Brown was apparently walking away, with his hands up — so there was no need for Wilson to fear for his life. Shooting Brown was thus unjustified. Every night since the shooting, the streets of Ferguson have been filled with protesters. Chants of “Hands up, don’t shoot,” were displayed on news channels for the world to see, but according to Cobb, this case is so much more than just who is right and who is wrong. This case goes much deeper into African-American history. For four and a half hours after the shooting, it was as though Brown’s body “lay behind like refuse in the afternoon heat left on display,” Cobb said. According to Cobb, this left the same sign as those 3,500 lynches in southern states between 1890 and 1920, because for the people of Ferguson, Brown’s body being left on display served as a warning — this, too, could happen to you. For those hours that Brown’s body lay there, covered with a white sheet, Cobb said Brown went “from man to victim to metaphor.” It was the “literal, terrible truth, laying directly in front of us in the streets,” Cobb said. And the truth is that this shooting was “not an isolated
AP Photo
Ferguson, MO residents riot following the shooting of 18-year-old Michael Brown. incident,” according to Cobb, just an “atypical situation.” “We’ve approached (the Ferguson area) as if it was a foreign territory,” Cobb said. “But Ferguson is part of America. Ferguson is America.” Freshman open options major Madina Ouedraogo went to the lecture to learn more about the details of the case and to what extent it has affected not only Ferguson
and the state of Missouri, but also, the nation. According to Ouedraogo, it was an extremely thought provoking and informative presentation, as well as necessary. “Lectures like these help spread tolerance and understanding among all people,” he said. “We live in nations and a world engulfed in so much intolerance and misunderstanding. If people just took the time to stop,
listen and open themselves up to the opportunity to hear different perspectives from their own, this world would be much more peaceful and united. Ouedraogo also believes it is “essential for lectures like these to be heard” because it helps “promote tolerance and understanding instead of miscommunications, misunderstanding and violent ideologies and divisions among all people.”
Plummeting gas prices boost US economy Investors uneasy as Twitter growth loses steam By Courtney Wirths Features Editor
• Gas prices are dropping. In most stations across the nation, a gallon of gas has dropped below $3 which has created relief for American consumers and will lead to a slight boost for the U.S. economy. If prices continue to fall, however, it poses a risk to oil-producing states and the large companies within them. • Twitter’s slow growth, especially when compared to Facebook Inc., is a cause for concern for many investors. A year after
the company’s initial public offering, the internet giant has more than doubled its revenue, however the weak growth in user still caused shares to drop 10 percent. • Yes, they now have bananas. Chiquita Brands International Inc. agreed to be acquired by a Brazilian orange-juice maker and its investment-firm partner for $742 million. The deal would give the famed banana company access to Cutrale-Safra’s farm-
ing and logistics expertise.
$6.625 billion this past quarter.
• In Apple’s world of popular products, the item bringing in the highest revenue gain wasn’t the latest versions of the iPhone, but rather the Mac. During the year of the product’s 30th anniversary, the line of computers saw a 21 percent jump in sales causing it to pass the iPad and become the company’s second largest source of revenue behind the iPhone with total sales of
• The U.S. Commerce Department has decided to place a tariff on sugar imports. The tax defends against the preliminary opinion that Mexican sugar producers dumped the sweetener into the U.S. markets, lowering prices and undermining U.S. farmers. The preliminary tariffs will range from 39.54 percent to 47.26 percent on top of tariff fees as high as 17.01 percent on Mexican sugar imports. *All information according to the Wall Street Journal.
October 29, 2014 The Signal page 5
Nation & W rld
Hong Kong protests the new election rules
By Roman Orsini Staff Writer
Hong Kong has been beset by protests since pro-democracy activists took to the streets last month. Demonstrators in the Chinese-controlled city number over 100,000, and their movement has been dubbed “The Umbrella Revolution.” Protesters are demanding that Hong Kong residents may vote for any chief executive they choose, without prior approval from Beijing. On Sunday, Aug. 31, a Chinese election plan for Hong Kong was announced, calling for potential candidates to be vetted by “a committee stacked with party supporters,”according to the Economist. The plan ensures that Hong Kong will only be run by those loyal to the Communist Party. Hong Kong’s current leader, C.Y. Leung, supports the Beijing plan and has come under fire by the protesters as a result. Leung attempted to stall the protests by opening talks with the activists, but to no avail. The protesters, mostly from local universities and schools, have modeled their activities from the Occupy Wall Street movement,
camping out along main streets. Some have threatened to occupy government offices, according to Reuters. The large-scale demonstrations have made it impossible for authorities to fully break them up. Police use of tear gas on protesters has only broadened sympathies for the Umbrella Revolution and increased its ranks. Hong Kong’s press is also free to report should a violent crackdown take place. For these reasons, authorities are wary of the use of force in containing the movement. A number of celebrities, including American saxophone player Kenny G (of great popularity in China), arrived in Hong Kong to show support for the demonstrators. Following their appearances, however, Chinese officials ordered the state-run media to omit any mention of the celebrities, according to CNN. In 1997, Great Britain ceded control of Hong Kong to China under condition that it be granted greater autonomy. The “One Country, Two Systems” policy was set to ensure Hong Kong have its own legal and financial systems, independent of mainland China. The city maintains a free press, the right to protest and independent courts. This duality in governance has generated conflict between
AP Photo
Tents are set up by the pro-democracy protesters outside the government headquarters in China. Hong Kong’s residents and the Chinese government in the past. In 2003, protesters forced Beijing to back off tough security laws, and in 2012, they opposed new education laws, according to the Economist. Under the current leadership of Xi Jinping, China is unwilling to grant Hong Kong any Western-style democracy, despite the city’s unique status, as this could potentially undermine government authority in the country at large.
Two American Ebola patients making a full recovery
AP Photo
Workers wearing protective suits conduct a training exercise to deal with suspected Ebola cases. By Candace Kellner Correspondent
President Barack Obama is tentatively more optimistic after learning that the battle with Ebola has taken a new turn: Two Ebola patients in America have been cured of the disease. “It gives you some sense that when it’s caught early and
The NJ Report
27. U.S.-bound passengers from Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea are required to land in one of the five U.S. airports with advanced Ebola-screening technology. In a statement made by the World Health Organization (WHO), officials emphasized that the organization opposes banning travel as a solution to regulating the virus. “(The WHO) does not recommend any ban on international travel or trade, in accordance with advice from the WHO Ebola Emergency Committee,” the statement said. Many in the United States have suggested prohibiting infected individuals from entering the country by plane. However, several individuals in the scientific and medical field conclude that banning air travel will make the infected harder to track because they would try to cross borders by land. Several international airlines have already banned flights to Ebola-stricken nations. Kenya Airways suspended flights to Sierra Leone and Liberia. British Airways also stopped flights to these two nations back in August. If the United States were to implement a travel ban, it would be the first air-travel ban in U.S. history.
Around the World: Uruguay
Uruguay’s presidential election in tight contest
AP Photo
Volunteers travel to different NJ beaches to pick up trash. Thousands of volunteers participated in the Clean Ocean Action’s 29th annual fall beach sweep this Saturday, Oct. 25. Volunteers collected, tallied and removed hundreds of harmful and unsightly debris from shorelines, including various plastics, cigarette butts and syringes. All information from AP
where the public health infrastructure operates effectively, this outbreak can be stopped,” Obama said to CNN. The condition of Nurse Nina Pham, who contracted Ebola after treating patient Thomas Eric Duncan, has shown improvement. In a statement released by her employer, Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas, Pham said she is feeling better. “I’m doing well and want to thank everyone for their kind wishes and prayers,” she said, according to the hospital. “I am blessed by the support of family and friends and am blessed to be cared for by the best team of doctors and nurses in the world.” Pham’s dog has also been reported to be doing well. Samples from her dog, Bentley, tested negative for the virus. Bentley is being cared for at a Dallas animal shelter. “That dog was very important to her,” Dallas Mayor Mike Rawlings told CNN. “We want to make sure that dog is as healthy as can be at this point and being taken care of.” In hopes to keep the outbreak from further spreading, the United States has decided to monitor all travelers entering the country from Ebola-affected areas as of Monday, Oct.
MONTEVIDEO, Uruguay (AP) — Uruguayans were choosing a new president Sunday in a contest that could also determine the future of the country’s pioneering marijuana law. Outgoing President Jose Mujica led Uruguay through economic prosperity and gained worldwide acclaim for social reforms such as the legalization of marijuana and gay marriage. His leftleaning Broad Front coalition leads in the election to replace him, but victory in the first round is far from certain. “I want the Broad Front to win in a first round, but I know it’s hard,” said Virginia Picun, 37, a nurse who voted at a public school in Montevideo joined by her husband and their two children. “I want the Broad Front to continue in the government because I’ve seen how much it’s improved Uruguay in these years.” Polls suggest that Broad Front candidate Tabare Vazquez, 74, will fall short of the absolute majority, forcing a runoff next month. His main challenger is center-right National Party candidate Luis Alberto Lacalle Pou, the son of a former president. If elected, Lacalle Pou, 41, promises to tackle rising crime, improve education and modify the law that Mujica
AP Photo
Presidential candidate for the National Party Luis Lacalle Pou casts his vote in the general elections in Canelones, Uruguay. spearheaded to create the world’s first national marketplace for legal marijuana. Although he would still allow consumers to grow the plants at home for personal use, he would end the government’s role in the production and sales of pot. In distant third is Pedro Bordaberry, 54, of the Colorado Party, whose father was elected president then seized power as a dictator. Bordaberry opposes the marijuana law and has vowed to repeal it if elected. Mujica, who was barred by law
from running for another term, remains popular after steering Uruguay through a period of economic growth and rises in wages. But his social reforms are less popular at home, and critics say his administration failed to deal with problems in education, security and environmental protection — all pillars of his presidential agenda. “I want change,” said Sofia Rímola, 25, a journalism student who wore a National Party button as she voted. “I want more education and improved health services.”
page 6 The Signal October 29, 2014
SPRING 2015 REGISTRATION APPOINTMENT PERIOD Initial Registration Period for Undergraduate and Graduate Students
Tuesday, November 4 Through Friday, November 14
Your enrollment appointment reflecting the first time you will be eligible to register for the Spring 2015 semester can be accessed via your PAWS account. To view your scheduled enrollment appointment, visit the Enrollment Appointment section in the PAWS Student Center. Once eligible, students remain eligible throughout the registration period. Undergraduate students who do not register by 11:59pm on Sunday, November 16th will be subject to a late registration fine. Graduate Students have until Monday, December 15th: Late Registration Fine Undergraduate: $150 Graduate: $125
The Spring 2015 Schedule of Classes is available on PAWS and can be viewed by using the Search for Classes button. Summer 2015 registration opens along with Spring 2015 registration. Check PAWS frequently for upcoming summer course offerings and consult with your advisor for appropriate course selections.
Visit the PAWS HELP website for complete information on how to log-in to PAWS, search for classes, browse the Course Catalog, view your Holds, add courses to your Shopping Cart, and register for classes: http://pawshelp.pages.tcnj.edu/
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THE OFFICE OF RECORDS AND REGISTRATION EXTENDED HOURS DURING THIS REGISTRATION PERIOD Tuesday, November 4 through Friday, November 14 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
October 29, 2014 The Signal page 7
Editorial
Reflections on Homecoming 2014
In spite of anxiety-inducing changes made to Homecoming this year, the results are in: the event was a raucous party for all while maintaining its tradition of community and organizational bonding. For those who may have difficulty remembering the day, however, don’t fret. Our own editors at The Signal are here to offer their memories and reflections on Homecoming 2014 for you. “This was the first Homecoming I attended in my four years at the College, and it lived up to the hype: It was a blast meeting new people, catching up with old friends, taking a break to lift in the gym and then fall into a deep post-tailgate nap. I was late to the party, but I can’t wait until the next one — and it’s only 360 more days until Homecoming 2015.”
Kyle Bennion / Photo Editor
Although regulations were tightened in an attempt to curb underage drinking, the — Peter Fiorilla majority of students were nevertheless ecstatic to partake in the tailgate. News Editor
“Homecoming is special to me because I’ve performed every year on the day. I’ve juggled with Circus Club each year — for children when it overlapped with Parent/Family Weekend and for the College community at large. And this year, I got to take part in TCNJ Pep Band’s debut performance during Homecoming MainStage and during the Homecoming football game. It’s always good to entertain and have fun with your peers, all while welcoming alumni home. It’s a chance to celebrate the College just because you can, and that’s what Homecoming is all about.” — Mylin Batipps News Assistant “It was so awesome to see so many students in blue, gold and other gear from the College. I really felt a sense of solidarity walking around the tailgate and watching the football game. Homecoming is always a day when students come together, and although I was skeptical at first, this year’s event exceeded my expectations.” — Sydney Shaw Opinions Editor “Homecoming 2014 was definitely an incredible experience. While I was initially disappointed with the new tailgating rules, at the end of the day, I still had a great time. In particular, I was most proud of my Alpha Epsilon Pi brothers, the brothers of Sigma Lambda Beta, and of course, the lovely sisters of Sigma Kappa for winning this year’s Spirit Week. I could not have asked for a better way to close out my senior year.” — Andrew Grossman Nation & World Editor “It was different this year, but I really enjoyed it. It’s always great to see everyone hanging out and having a good time. I just wish I had made it to the MainStage on time, because I missed all the cool acts and food!” — Kimberly Ilkowski Review Editor
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.
Correction tcnjsignal.net Email: signal@tcnj.edu Telephone: Production Room (609) 771-2424 Business Office (609) 771-2499 Ad Email: signalad@tcnj.edu
Editorial Staff Natalie Kouba Editor-in-Chief kouban1@tcnj.edu Tom Kozlowski Managing Editor kozlowt1@tcnj.edu Colleen Murphy Peter Fiorilla News Editors murphc16@tcnj.edu fiorilp1@tcnj.edu Julie Kayzerman Sports Editor kayzerj1@tcnj.edu Jonathan Edmondson Arts & Entertainment Editor edmondj5@tcnj.edu Courtney Wirths Features Editor wirthsc1@tcnj.edu Sydney Shaw Opinions Editor shaws4@tcnj.edu Kyle Bennion Photo Editor benniok1@tcnj.edu
Mailing Address: The Signal c/o Brower Student Center The College of New Jersey P.O. Box 7718 Ewing, NJ 08628-0718 Andrew Grossman Nation & World Editor grossma6@tcnj.edu Kimberly Ilkowski Review Editor ilkowsk1@tcnj.edu Matt Bowker Production Manager bowkerm1@tcnj.edu Annabel Lau Web Editor laua2@tcnj.edu Jess Ganga Social Media Editor gangaj1@tcnj.edu Mylin Batipps News Assistant battipm1@tcnj.edu Emilie Lounsberry Advisor lounsber@tcnj.edu Lucas Haber Business/Ad Manager haberl1@tcnj.edu
In the article “Student organization funded with no treble,” published on Oct. 22, 2014, The Signal reported that the Student Finance Board allocated funds to LDP and CUB of $26,098 to bring Daymond John to campus. SFB actually tabled the event.
Quotes of the Week “We’ve approached (Ferguson) as if it was a foreign territory. But Ferguson is part of America. Ferguson is America.”
-Jelani Cobb, journalist, historian and University of Connecticut history professor
“Ela Gandhi is an incredibly inspiring woman ... She is so passionate about change and equality. Meeting her gave me so much hope and ambition to challenge public health issues and social inequality.”
-Isabelle Tan, self-designed public health major
page 8 The Signal October 29, 2014
TCNJ Ambassadors Interest Sessions
Want To Learn More About The Ambassador Program? Attend One Of Our Interest Sessions For More Information About One of The BEST Jobs On Campus And How To Apply Online Application Available On Oct 31 ST at: Ambassadors.pages.tcnj.edu
Application Deadline: November 14
INTEREST SESSIONS Tuesday October 28 th , 8-9 PM, Roscoe West Hall, Room 201 Sunday November 2 ND , 6:30 – 7:30 PM, Library Auditorium Wednesday November 5 th , 2:00 – 3:00 PM, Science Complex, C121
th
October 29, 2014 The Signal page 9
Opinions
Why the Ebola hype shouldn’t scare you
AP Photos
Left: A woman adjusts her mask outside a closed-off building after an Ebola scare in Los Angeles. Right: President Obama meets Ebola survivor Nina Pham.
By Alyssa Sanford
We all know the facts: Ebola is a highly contagious and deadly disease, claiming the lives of thousands worldwide. According to CNN, this is the worst Ebola outbreak that the world has seen since the disease appeared in the 1970s. Doctors and aid workers are illequipped to contain the disease. The mainstream media does a great job of whipping Americans into a frenzy because very few of us stop to consider the facts. What are the chances of the average American contracting Ebola and spreading it across the country? The answer? Slim to none. For one thing, the mainstream media focuses on the sheer number of infected patients outside of West Africa. Even though high-profile patients are now declared “Ebola-free,” new reports of patients in quarantine have appeared in the media. On Thursday,
Oct. 23, amid reports that Amber Vinson, one of two nurses at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital in Dallas, was cured of Ebola, the news surfaced that a doctor in New York City was diagnosed. Almost all of the Ebola patients in the United States have been cured of the disease and are on the road to recovery, as of Thursday, Oct. 23. This includes the NBC cameraman who contracted Ebola while on assignment in Liberia and two American aid workers who fell ill over the summer. So, what’s the common denominator in these cases? The infected were all in close contact with Ebola patients. Vinson and Nina Pham, who both treated Thomas Eric Duncan in Dallas, intubated the patient and performed dialysis, thus exposing them directly to his infected bodily fluids. The infected were not average Americans who contracted Ebola in their daily travels. They were healthcare workers and journalists
dedicated to stopping the disease’s spread in West Africa. Shepherd Smith, a FOX News TV personality, decried the mainstream media’s response to the recent Ebola cases in the United States in a Wednesday, Oct. 15 broadcast. “We do not have an outbreak of Ebola in the United States,” Shepherd reminded the audience. “Do not listen to the hysterical voices on the radio or the television … The people who say and write hysterical things are being very irresponsible.” The hype “lacks basis in fact or reason,” according to Shepherd, because the media is neglecting to explain the disease’s spread. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said that “Ebola is not spread through the air or by water” and that the virus can be killed by bleach and other disinfectants, but these facts rarely appear in mainstream reports. We shouldn’t worry about contracting the
disease, even if someone suspected of having the disease is in close proximity. The media recently attacked NBC’s chief medical correspondent, Dr. Nancy Snyderman, for leaving her voluntary quarantine in Princeton to get a bite to eat in nearby Hopewell, but Snyderman may not have even left her car or come into close contact with anyone on her trip. She never had Ebola to begin with, therefore invalidating the media’s concerns. Recent quarantines of airplane and cruise ship passengers were equally ridiculous because the passengers were merely suspected of having the disease. We need to stop worrying about an Ebola outbreak in the United States. We have some of the best hospitals in the world, an abundance of disinfectants and very few opportunities to come into direct contact with Ebola patients. So before you start wearing a hospital mask and hazmat suit in public, remind yourself that it’s hype, not fact.
Solar-powered highways are the way of the future By Sydney Shaw Opinions Editor A couple from Ohio may have discovered a way to deal with our warming Earth and the toll that humans are taking on the planet. Scott and Julie Brusaw hope to use America’s highway system to capture and convert the power of the sun. Unless you live under a rock, I’m guessing you’ve heard of Solar Roadways Incorporated. The YouTube video “Solar FREAKIN’ Roadways!” went viral this summer, garnering over 18 million hits so far. The idea is exactly what it sounds like — roads made from solar panels. Although the project is gaining publicity now — especially in the past few weeks in venues like BBC News and Dish Magazine — the couple has been working on it for years. “Years ago, when the phrase
AP Photo
The Brusaws want to use solar panels to replace roadways. ‘global warming’ began gaining popularity, we started batting around the idea of replacing asphalt and concrete surfaces with solar panels that could be driven upon,” according to the website, SolarRoadways.com. “We thought of the ‘black box’ on airplanes: We didn’t know what material that black box was made of, but it seemed to be able to protect sensitive electronics from the worst of airline crashes.”
In 2009, the Brusaws received a contract from the Federal Highway Administration to build a prototype. After successful completion of Phase I, the FHA awarded them with a $750,000 contract for Phase II. Scott even presented the Solar Roadway at a TEDx Talk in Sacramento on April 16, 2010, calling it “the talk of (his) life.” If implemented, the Solar Roadways Project will generate
three times more clean energy than needed and will cut carbon emissions by 75 percent. It is an interesting idea, but is it a feasible one? I say yes, but not right now. Before undertaking such a massive project, we must think about the cost of ripping up every paved road in the nation and laying down solar panels. Each panel costs about $7,000 and the plan calls for billions of them. It would take several years before the electricity generated would recoup their own costs. Then there’s the question of how the panels would work on cloudy days. As is, most solar panels convert only about 14 percent of available energy into electricity. Would these panels be worth it to parts of the country that must endure long winters and cloudy seasons? Even right here in New Jersey, the College endured days straight of rainy weather last week. Would glass panels withstand
the harsh punishment from cars, trucks and other heavy vehicles? There is a chance that they would shatter under the weight. There are many questions, but one thing is for certain — this country cannot depend on fossil fuels forever. We are destroying our planet. There has to be another solution. However, solar panels need to be developed further before they are laid across every major roadway in America. We have certainly come a long way since the first Solar Collector built by Swiss scientist HoraceBenedict de Saussure in 1767, but there is still a ways to go. The efficiency of individual panels need to be high enough to justify spending billions, or even trillions, of dollars on their installation. If there is more preparation put into the Solar Panel Roadways project, it can be a tremendous success in the near future.
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 signal@tcnj.edu. 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 signal@tcnj.edu.
page 10 The Signal October 29, 2014
Features
Sharing from the past to inspire the future: Survivor of conversion therapy visits College By Edward Worton Correspondent
LGBT activist and nuclear engineer Samuel Brinton, standing in his trademark high heels, began his discussion with the College’s students by asking whether anyone knew a survivor of conversion therapy. Only about three people raised their hands. Those who didn’t raise their hands, however, would know a survivor’s story by the end of the event. Brinton spoke at the College on Tuesday, Oct. 21, as a part of PRISM’s Queer Awareness Month. He went into detail about his experiences with conversion therapy and his continuing journey to counter conversion therapy’s reach in the United States. As a child raised by Southern Baptist missionaries, Brinton never had a concrete idea of what having feelings for his best friend Dale meant. But when he told his father of those feelings, it was the start of a long and painful experience. Immediately after revealing his feelings, Brinton awoke in the emergency room — his father had knocked him out cold. This abuse continued until his mother found it best to take his problem to a professional, explained Brinton. Brinton was told initially that the government hated people like him and had killed off every other gay person in the country. He was told he was next if they ever found him. Then, he was told more heinous and elaborate lies: the gays, they said,
had brought AIDS into the country, and he was writhing with the disease for being gay himself. After that, he was told that God hated him and everyone like him. These efforts to rid him of his “disease” did not stop there, but they had already reached a terrifying efficacy. Brinton emphasized the importance of any level of conversion therapy from the beginning stages to its torturous ones, whether your pastor simply puts his hand on your back and tells you to change or puts you through electroshock therapy. “Both of those are just as evil and just as wrong and just as damaging to your mental health,” Brinton said. Brinton was eventually forced to suffer through sessions of physical aversion therapy, where his hands were strapped to blocks of ice and he was shown images of men doing things like hugging or holding hands. Then, coils were wrapped around his hands, channeling intense heat whenever images of men touching each other were shown and going cold when images of women and men were shown. These sessions were manipulated to make him associate pain with homosexuality and the lack of pain with heterosexuality. It worked very well, according to Brinton. He avoided the touch of his father and hid behind his mother’s skirts constantly after the treatment. However, Brinton’s story
demonstrated that even the most brutal of therapies could not change the identity he did not choose. Tendencies of suicide surfaced when he thought he had failed his God miserably and should join him in death instead. After his first suicide attempt failed, he was resolved to keep trying, but his place in the therapy room awaited him in what he recalled the most horrible experience of his life. He was introduced to electroshock therapy. Needles were stuck into his fingers and, following the same procedure as his previous sessions, electro pulses ran through his limbs when images of men having sex with men were shown and ceased when images of men and women having sex were shown. “My mother had to hear my screams in the other room and not come running in,” Brinton said. Brinton has spoken at several important communities to talk of one fundamental issue: the ramifications of conversion therapy on the individuals who suffered through it. The rate of those who went through conversion therapy is high compared to those who survived it, he said, recalling that of the 80 victims he know, about 12 of them would still be alive. “We are extremely prone to suicide,” he said. Brinton affirmed that the reason conversion therapy was a taboo topic was because the victims weren’t there to tell their stories. His goal is to make awareness of conversion therapy spread, telling
Kyle Bennion / Photo Editor
Brinton expresses joy at speaking in one of the only two states to have banned conversion therapy.
the students to share his story with others each time and identify it as a serious issue. Ryan Eldridge, a political science and women’s and gender studies double major and member of the PRISM executive board, was very happy to see Brinton speak, calling him a “unique speaker.” “We try to offer a very diverse range of content, because the queer community on TCNJ’s campus is so vibrant and diverse that we are able to bring things to satisfy everyone,” Eldridge said. Having a knowledge of conversion therapy, Eldridge saw value in welcoming Brinton to the campus to educate others on the topic. “It’s still a current issue, and there are still individuals who
are going through it,” Eldridge said. “It’s not really talked about because it’s kind of seen as a thing of the past.” The hope is that hearing about the past will motivate change in the present as people hear Brinton’s story. Brinton does not want anyone to have the same experience he did, so he made it his job to advocate for a bill proposing to ban this type of therapy among minors. California and New Jersey are the only two states that have gone ahead with banning conversion therapy practices. He expressed his joy of speaking in a state that’s already outlawed it for the first time. “Forty-eight more states to go,” he said with a smile.
Helping former inmates rejoin society By Kaitlyn Njoroge Correspondent The Chi Upsilon Sigma chapter of the National Latino Sorority and the Peer Pride Mentoring Program on campus brought Terrell Blount, a former inmate and Rutgers graduate, to the College on Monday, Oct. 20, to speak with students and faculty about re-entry resources for prisoners and to share his life story. The lecture began with showing a scene from “Fool Me Once,” an episode in the popular Netflix series “Orange is the New Black,” in which a recent re-entry inmate, Taystee, explains how hard life is on the outside after being released from prison. Blount agreed that life for prisoners post-release is difficult, saying it’s almost impossible to find jobs or a place to live with a criminal record and a sixth grade reading level — the average level at which New Jersey inmates can read. According to Blount, 65 percent of the prison population in New Jersey serve minimum sentences, with 56 percent serving less than five-year sentences. When inmates are released from prison, they are often placed in transitional houses located mostly in Newark and Camden for approximately a year. At the same time, they are expected to work in order to be able to leave when the year ends. However, 70 percent of the money earned goes toward house fees, which leaves former inmates unprepared to become financially stable. Some house owners do not encourage the pursuit of education in their first year, either, due to the fact that former inmates need all the money they can spare to pay toward the house. The situation contributes to the lack of both education and money for former inmates.
AP Photo
Event shows ‘Orange is the New Black’ scene.
These circumstances are what Blount wants to change. As a former inmate himself, education opportunities offered inside the prison are what helped turn his life around. “I see prison education as an eye opener which helped me to see the world around me,” Blount said. Before taking college classes, Blount said he “was blind” to the power of education. In prison, he was only exposed to business classes that focused on how to own a business, a subject he wasn’t interested in at all. After meeting the Dean at Rutgers University at 24, he enrolled as a freshman, graduating four years later with a double major in Communication and African American studies. However, not every former inmate is as fortunate. As an activist for prison reform, Blount works at NJ-STEP, a program which provides post-secondary education for those
in prison. Inmates enrolled in the program are able to take classes ranging from Japanese studies to linguistics in order to earn liberal arts credits. Those in the program can maintain a set of credits to be transferred to any college in the state and further their educational careers. The realization of how hard it is for some people to receive an education hit home for many members of the audience. Financially, the college courses offered in the NJ-STEP program are free, and the books are provided by both professors and the Bill Gates Foundation. Through NJ-STEP, Blount helps inmates receive as many grants as possible for college entry. There are also re-entry case managers that teach workplace etiquette and help create inmate resumes. Essex County College also offers free courses to former inmates with 0 to 9 credits, providing everything but housing. Blount ended his speech by telling the audience how to distinguish between “passion and interest.” He believes that in order to thrive in society, people must discover what they love to do. Otherwise, it is “so easy to be tricked into pursuing your interest and not your passion,” Blount said. Being passionate about helping inmates pursue higher education allows Blount to perform his job at full potential. His enthusiasm serves as motivation for student volunteers like freshman sociology major Yuleisy Ortez. She explained how important it is to her to, “help people better themselves and have a brighter future.” Blount believes above all that people have an obligation to help the less fortunate receive an education — by doing so, the world may change for the better.
The Hollyword
Zellweger puts on a good face for plastic surgery rumors. By Johnanthony Alaimo Columnist The biggest news story this week was about Renee Zellweger. RENEE ZELLWEGER. I can’t even type her name without messing up. Can you even name a movie with Renie Zellwagger in it? If you said “Bridget Jones’s Diary” then fine, you win NOTHING. Do you people realize I’m trying to write an entertainment column and this is the material you give me? Fine. Fine. I’ll give YOU what YOU want. We’ll talk about RENNE ZALLBLADDER. Apparently Ronnie Zoolander’s face looks different. How different? Shockingly different. She may have had plastic surgery. Maybe, and this may sound crazy, it may be due to aging. Whatever the case is, does it matter? Who cares what RENIE ZESTWONDER looks like? It’s one thing to make fun of someone’s outfit, career choices or behavior that’s not due to mental illness. But to make fun of the way someone’s face looks? Nah.
AP Photo
So stop being assholes and start discussing the real issues: Like WHEN IS “BRIDGET JONES’S DIARY 3” COMING OUT. Let’s look at the other headlines of the week. Like “YOU’LL NEVER GUESS WHAT TAYLOR SWIFT’S WORST FEAR IS!!!” I think there were more exclamation points in the original headline, but I’m a serious journalist so I don’t play that game. So what do you think it is? Spiders? Lady GaGa? Turns out it’s sea urchins. Ah yes, as someone who is personally, constantly in beautiful crystal clear sea water on magnificent beaches, I can understand your pain, Taylor Swift. Sea urchins are a great threat to us all, and THANK YOU for bringing this to our attention. In fact, every month for the rest of eternity will be designated Sea Urchin Awareness Month. Also, a quick PSA: If any of you dress up as offensive costumes in poor taste like Ebola, ISIS or Renee Zellweger’s face, then please stay home and offend your couch instead because nobody wants to see that. Thanks!
October 29, 2014 The Signal page 11
Campus Style
By Heather Hawkes & Jordan Koziol Columnists
This week, we are featuring a student who is not only a fashion killer, but also a name that you will most definitely see in lights in the near future. Franco Obour, better known as ‘Junior,’ is an up and coming rap artist with a serious sense for fashion. As a third-year Biology major at the College, it seems nearly impossible to be able to conjure up the lyrical art that Junior seems to so effortlessly craft. We highly recommend you not only listen to his fashion advice, but also to his immense musical talent on his sound cloud account, juneyouare. Q: You’re kind of a campus celebrity. How does your music influence your style? My music definitely has an impact on my style. I love hip-hop culture, and a large part of it is the way you carry yourself. Clothes aid in an artist’s expression, and they’re almost an extension of their music. Q: Describe your fashion-sense in three words. Wavy, ’90s, simple. Q: Predict a trend for 2015. I feel like people are starting to appreciate clothing from the ’90s. It’s the era that most of our generation grew up in, and it makes sense that styles are making a return. Q: Famous person whose style you admire:
Photo courtesy of Jordan Koziol
Obour’s music is a major influence on his style.
I admire ASAP Rocky’s style in addition to Ian Connor’s and Kanye’s. Q: Kanye or Kendrick? Kendrick > Kanye (I love Kanye though). Q: Do you think you can incorporate style into your future occupation? If I’m successful in becoming a recording artist, I’ll be able to incorporate my style into my profession. But if I become an orthopedic surgeon, it’ll be a little tougher. I can rock the suit and tie look pretty well, so I’m not very concerned.
New Jersey – a leader in solar energy use By Neha Vachhani Columnist
When thinking of renewable energy or sustainable resources, most people initially think of California and its tree-hugging residents. Although California takes the lead, New Jersey follows closely behind when it comes to solar energy. According to the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities, the state reached the one gigawatt mark in total installed solar electric capacity this past February, which has continued to increase ever since. In 2013, approximately one third
of all solar panels in the country were installed in New Jersey. Solar panels can be seen on suburban rooftops throughout New Jersey. However, the state prides itself on the government, business and nonprofit buildings that are powered with the renewable resource. Among the nonresidential buildings powered with solar energy are the myriad of public schools throughout the state. Again, New Jersey ranks second in the nation when it comes to K-12 schools that use solar energy. Over 380 schools statewide have solar panels installed, generating nearly 100,000
kilowatts of solar electricity. Taking the lead with 6.1 megawatts, the Lawrenceville School in Mercer County has the most solar energy panels on a school in the United States. Solar power allows schools to save money, provide local jobs and, most importantly, provide power without harmful emissions. There are five times as many schools using solar energy than there were in 2008, providing students with access to more than they ever had before, according to NJ.com. Hopefully, this number only increases with time as people realize that solar energy is the future.
A study performed by the Solar Energy Industries Association displays that 16 school districts throughout New Jersey could save over $1 million in about 30 years with the help of solar power systems. In order to yield savings from the rather expensive investment, consumers must be patient because it does take a couple of years. Despite the price of installation, solar power systems are a worthy venture because it shows the world that schools and corporate businesses can take a step in the right direction to conserve resources and do something good for the planet, in addition to saving money in the long run.
‘Isang Bagsak’ – Barrett promotes idea of unity By Aslin Gonzalez Correspondent “I like to start every show with an altar,” said spoken word artist Kay Ulanday Barrett as he laid out a purple cloth. He then asked the audience to hold someone in their thoughts who is struggling while he explained the isang bagsak. “When I say ‘isang bagsak,’ we all clap once,” he said. Isang bagsak, the Filipino idea of unity, is one of the many ways in which Barrett tries to bring people together. Barrett performed his poetry on Tuesday, Oct. 21, in the Library Auditorium as part of PRISM’s Queer Awareness Week. Barrett began his set by talking about how he wants to unite people and pay homage to those who have come before him. “There was always somebody before me,” Barrett said. Barrett spoke casually throughout his set, explaining each poem and the inspiration behind it. In “You Are So Brave,” a cento
Photo courtesy of Disha Dass
Barrett calls to those who ‘did not get to sit at the cafeteria table.’
poem compiled of lines from his friends and favorite poets, Barrett spoke about his life as a transgender, gender-queer, disabled person of color. He spoke of the looks of pity and the unwelcome questions he has had to deal with throughout his life. When asked about his favorite environment in which to write, Barrett said that if
he “can write in a collective, that is (his) favorite.” He loves to work in writing circles and in collaborative environments. When asked about being misgendered, Barrett talked about taking each incident case by case. He said that he is always concerned about the situation he is in and his safety therein each situation. As a transgender person of color, Barrett is twice as likely to experience violence or discrimination as a cysgendered white person. Barrett has visited the College before, as well. When asked if anything has changed within the LGBTQ community, Barrett noted that “transgender people of color have changed in the media,” mentioning Laverne Cox as a transgender woman of color changing the face of the transgender community. “People are pulling apart their genders in ways that are glorious,” he said. Barrett, moreover, wants to be a voice for any and all struggling youth. “Everybody in the margins (is my audience),” Barrett said. “The kids who do
not get to sit at the cafeteria table, you are all my friends.” Freshman math and secondary education double major Amanda Skriloff attended the event with a love of poetry and the LGBTQ community. “I’m queer, so I came to support PRISM and to support the queers.” Skriloff said. Sophomore fine arts major Amanda Pulacios said that she, too, attended in “support of queers.” She enjoyed how “(Barrett) wasn’t talking at people” and found the performance to be relatable. As a performer, Barrett tried to unify his audience and break down barriers. As a person who falls into multiple minority groups, Barrett has an often underrepresented perspective, yet he presents it in a way to which many both in and out of the LGBTQ community can relate. Combing his stage presence, vision and poetry, then, Barrett is a force for comfort and change, and his positive outlook on the LGBTQ movement is reflected in his own powerful identity.
page 12 The Signal October 29, 2014
Humility and hardship: tea with Ela Gandhi By Lauren Longo & Stephanie Agresti Correspondents
Ela Gandhi, peace activist and daughter of Mahatma Gandhi, invited 10 students to her apartment in South Africa for tea while they interned this past summer. The interior of her home was humble, which students say complimented her countenance: A small piano stood among the beige walls and decor of her one-bathroom home. According to John C. Pollock of the College’s Communication Studies Department, Gandhi was “very modest, but quite elegant.” He said she downplayed her family’s suffering, which ranged from her nine years of house arrest to the assassination of several of her friends and loved ones. Gandhi, who has lived in South Africa her entire life, has always been heavily involved in South Africa’s fight for liberation. Her role with the then-banned African National Congress (ANC) resulted in a nine-year house arrest. Gandhi steadily told students stories of her non-violent activism, only to pause before sharing her most intimate struggle. Her eyes clouded over before she telling the audience that the her eldest son was assassinated by the apartheid regime. Once majority rule was gained and the ANC was liberated, Gandhi was elected to the first parliament, where she was a leader in writing two key provisions to the South African Constitution, focusing on religious freedom and women’s rights. As a result of her activism, Gandhi received the most prestigious civilian awards in both South Africa and India. Gandhi also spoke warmly of her
Photos courtesy of Lauren Longo
Pollock listens as Gandhi recalls her life of advocating for peace and the memories of her grandfather. grandfather, who was assassinated when she was seven years old. Mahatma Gandhi was known for being a self-disciplined man, and he made sure to allocate one hour of his daily routine to spend with his grandchildren. She recalled him teaching her how to spin cotton to yarn, which was another task he practiced daily. Students were honored when Ela Gandhi asked them to stay longer than their original meeting time had called for, saying she’d put on another pot of tea. She let them know that she had been eager to meet them, and sent them a thank you note before they had the chance to send her one. The tea with Gandhi served as a time of reflection and inspiration for students. “Ela Gandhi is an incredibly inspiring woman,” self-designed public health major and internship participant Isabelle Tan
said. “Throughout her life, she constantly fought for her beliefs. Even as a young girl, she would walk to school every single day because her parents were against formal education. She is so passionate about change and equality. Meeting her gave me so much hope and ambition to challenge public health issues and social inequality.” During their time in South Africa, students also shadowed DramAidE, a nonprofit organization out of the University of KwaZulu-Natal, learning how entertainment education can be utilized in the fight against the spread of HIV/AIDS. Organizations like DramAidE implement entertainment education techniques, such as allowing students to participate in theatre performances, integrating public health communication campaigns into societies suffering from large-scale pub-
lic health issues. Meeting with Gandhi’s granddaughter helped students connect entertainment education strategies with a public need. “South Africa needs help from other people, but we cannot be instilling our ideas in South Africa,” communication studies and biology double major James Etheridge said. “We have to help people help themselves. (Gandhi) showed throughout her life that, no matter how difficult it is, you have to hold on to what you’re fighting for, or else, what are you fighting for?” Etheridge also stressed the importance of spending time abroad. “I chose to go to South Africa because I wanted to study abroad, but I also really wanted to experience what it was like to engage in public health,” he said. “I wanted to go somewhere very different from what I was used to. I got to go out there and experience all that I’ve read about and see what the people of these countries are going through.” The internship abroad afforded students the opportunity to connect with scholars and interact with individuals at institutions such as the Valley of 1,000 Hills HIV/AIDS Orphanage and Hospice and the Esizibeni Sivananda Vaswani Comprehensive High School. Students from the College were fully immersed in public health initiatives in the field, providing them with a thorough understanding that no classroom could provide. “South Africa is a country that needs people to visit it in order to understand what (its people) are going through,” Etheridge said.
October 29, 2014 The Signal page 13
Arts & Entertainment
Concert brings epilepsy awareness to Ewing
Courtney Wirths / Features Editor
Left: Kinney leads the performance with sweet vocals. Right: Reed plays ‘Candlelight’ — the song after which the concert series is named. By Mackenzie Cutruzzula Arts & Entertainment Assistant
Zombie apocalypses and religious organizations usually are not usually associated with each other. But on Friday Oct. 24, fans wearing “The Walking Dead” apparel filled the pews of Trinity Methodist Church in Ewing to watch star Emily Kinney, who plays Beth on the series, join other performers for a charity. “I saw someone with a ‘We know where Beth is’ sign. It’s a secret I’m here tonight,” Kinney said to the audience, joking about her “Walking Dead” character. “Don’t tell anyone.” Kinney’s presence was no secret though, and her appearance was far more than for publicity. The concert was the last show of 2014 for Eric Miller’s Candlelight Concert series that has been spreading epilepsy awareness since
2011. Miller, a Ewing resident, started the series in his living room as a memorial for his wife Carolina who died of an epilepsy attack in 2011. “The first show was a memorial for my wife, but then I wanted to continue doing them for a greater purpose,” Miller said. “I wanted to raise awareness. I did the first 30 shows in ten months, all in my living room. I always want to give practical information out when I can and the performers help me do that.” Trinity Methodist Church opened its doors to Miller to help expand his concert series. Since then, Miller has organized 50 concerts in 50 states, with each show featuring music and a speaker. The latest concert featured Brittany Gresham, a 17-year-old high school senior, sharing her personal struggle with epilepsy. Diagnosed at age 6, Gresham struggled fitting in. It hard to have sleepovers, and
she was a frequent visitor to the nurse’s office. After having her last seizure in 2010, she now enjoys a typical teenage life, including driving around with her friends and applying to college. “Just know you can do this and it does get better,” Gresham said. “You have to get to the end to see the rainbow.” Friday’s show included opening act, Rowan student Sofia Nicole, dressed in purple specifically for epilepsy awareness. Nicole has become a standard at the concert series after hearing about it through a Hamilton radio station. The headliners were comprised of Kinney, Chris Barrons of the Spin Doctors and Dan Reed. The name of the series is based on Miller’s late wife’s favorite song, “Candlelight,” an original of Reed, who played at the Miller’s wedding reception. The three headliners took the stage
together sharing anecdotes and working off each other’s energy. Touching on other subjects, such as mental illness, drug addiction and heartache, the performers used their time to be inspiring and genuine to the cause. “I was really inspired by Eric’s story,” Kinney said. “This was an opportunity to give back, and when I saw who else was performing I really wanted to be apart of it. I got to play with other songwriters, which is really cool. I got to watch a show and be part of it.” Barrons ended the show with the Spin Doctors’ 1991 hit, “Two Princes” with a standing ovation. Each of the performers stayed after the show to chat and take pictures with the audience in the lobby where the Epilepsy Foundation of New Jersey was seated taking donations. The concert series will pick up again in January 2015.
Bombay Bicycle Club exudes passion at concert By Kimberly Ilkowski Review Editor
Philly’s Union Transfer is a gift from the indie rock gods. With an incredible fall lineup of up-and-coming electro-pop acts and big name alternative kings, it was about time I pilgrimaged to the holy land for a spectacular show. A walk through the warm, late October night and a few subway stops later, my friends and I reached the dark, beaconing music venue to catch English rockers Bombay Bicycle Club. The night’s opening acts were surprisingly enjoyable and satiated our musical hunger. Luxley instantly halted the audience’s chatter — not with its music but with lead vocalist Ryan Gray’s spastic shimmying across the stage. The more the crowd cheered, the more Gray jumped around.
Although an incredibly fun performance to watch, it ultimately felt like the audience was more enthralled by Gray’s unapologetic dance moves than the songs. For the final song, Gray went even further by diving right into the crowd and snaking through — microphone in-hand and aggravated crew members in the distance. The audience formed a circle around him as he spun around on the floor and sang his heart out. Following the sweat-inducing spectacle of Luxley, Milo Greene took the stage and set the tone for the rest of the night — mellow, airy and effortlessly cool. At the peak of its set, four of the five members stood across the front of the stage and sang with such passion it commanded the entire venues attention. Not only do the four share
AP Photo
Steadman leads the band with vocals that ring with intensity.
vocal duties, but they also swap out instruments. For one song, Marlana Sheetz would be seen behind a keyboard, then the next grooving away on the bass. Robbie Arnett captivated on electric and acoustic guitar while seductively moving his hips in time with the sultry music. When the band announced the last song it would play, an audible sigh was heard, proving it had accomplished a great feat — entertaining the crowd enough that they forgot all about the headliner. But who could actually forget the headliner? The crowd’s anticipation was practically bubbling over when the lights finally dimmed, signifying the show was about to begin. With a soft melody playing, five giant, circular projection screens played a graphic of a man walking around the Earth accompanied by the sun and moon rising and setting, as seen on the album artwork for its most recent album, “So Long, See You Tomorrow.” As the track picked up pace, the band emerged from the back and played a string of songs off “So Long” and the 2011 release “A Different Kind of Fix.” The band exuded an undeniable energy that matched the crowd’s excitement to be dancing and singing along to one of its favorite bands. Everyone around us was in
AP Photo
The band breathes new life into old tracks during the show.
high spirits, whether it was the girls bobbing their heads or the boys crooning along. Hearing Bombay’s music live gave it an entirely new life and heightened its meaning. Tracks like “Luna,” “Shuffle” and “It’s Alright Now” were all beautifully done and carried a sense of whimsy and wonder. Other songs like “Your Eyes” and “How Can You Swallow So Much Sleep” gripped my heart with their light-hearted nature and positive beats. I couldn’t help but close my eyes and sway — the delicate chords and pure vocals sounded like falling in love. For the quieter, ballad-esque “Eyes Off You,” vocalist Jack Steadman sat front and center, playing the keyboard and practically whispering the heartfelt lyrics. The only thing that less-
ened the moments profundity were the voices of the people at the back bar ringing in our ears just as loudly as Steadman. Despite this minor hiccup, the rest of the band’s set absolutely dazzled. The evening wrapped up with a few older songs like “Always Like This” off its 2009 album “I Had The Blues But I Shook Them Loose” and a triumphant return to the stage after the crowd pleaded for an encore. Steadman’s distinct voice paired with Liz Lawrence’s velvety smooth vocals created a back and forth dialogue that made every song feel like a story. The band played every song I could have possibly hoped to hear, yet I still left the venue craving more. With the amount of love Philly showed them, hopefully Bombay Bicycle Club will come back to us soon.
page 14 The Signal October 29, 2014
Art gallery explores children’s book illustrators By Samantha Malnick Correspondent
Created to explore the media and styles of awardwinning children’s book illustrators, the College’s fall exhibition, Visual Voyage, attracted more visitors than expected when it opened on Wednesday, Oct. 22. The gallery was full of laughter and smiles, people pointing their fingers and furrowing their brows at over 50 works on display, with plenty of adoration given to the various uses of materials. “We tried to have as much diversity as possible,” said Emily Croll, director of the Art Gallery and Sarnoff Museum. “We wanted to include so many different styles and capture all the different sides and views of the artists.” The purpose of this exhibit was to hone in on the different media and let the visitors explore the works of artists such as Chris Van Allsburg, Jan Reynolds, Faith Ringgold and Leo Lionni. “I was having so much trouble choosing which pieces to put in the show,” Croll said. “There were so many incredible artists that we liked, so we weren’t sure what to send out.” Media varied from piece to piece — some were complex, others were more simplistic. There were artists who used acrylic, crayon, marker and tissue paper in one piece, while other artists used media like oil on washboard, woodcut print with acrylic paint, silkscreen
on silk, and scratchboard on oil paint. Terri Epstein, an ’05 graduate from the Art Department, came back to the gallery for the first time since she left College. She was amazed when she saw some of the works in real life. “It’s interesting because the pieces are the same as in print, but here, up close, the texture is so different,” Epstein said. “It’s really incredible.” The overall atmosphere in the room was exciting and positive. Visitors were intrigued by the works they were analyzing. People who had just met for the first time were deep in conversation — alumni were reminiscing about the building and how it has come such a long way. Amanda Intilli, a junior art education major who works for the Art Gallery, was glowing with excitement about the exhibit. “I was almost crying from some of the pieces,” Intilli said when exploring the gallery. “Seeing them during my childhood, while I’m growing up and then seeing them in person was just crazy to me.” She was most excited to see the work done by Chris Van Allsburg from “The Polar Express.” “I think that it’s exciting because it’s children’s books,” said Debra Lampert-Rudman, author of “Iris the Architect.” “Most of the books we’ve all read or heard about before.” Neither the College’s Art Gallery staff nor visitors expected the turnout to be so large. “Half the people in the audience were from off-cam-
pus, so I think that’s really great,” Croll said. “This was a really good turnout,” Epstein said, looking around the room. “Especially on a Wednesday afternoon, on a rainy day. I would not have expected to see so many people. The gallery really has improved a lot since I’ve last been here.”
Photo courtesy of TCNJ Center for the Arts
‘Visual Voyage’ gallery opening draws large crowd.
Otis discusses the opportunities of art in Trenton By Harrison Duhr Correspondent
When many College students think of their close neighbor, Trenton, they associate the city with negative connotations, such as crime and unemployment. Trenton is more than that, however, and on Friday Oct. 24, students had the chance to learn more about the positive current events going on in Trenton at Mayo Concert Hall when special guest Lauren Otis stopped by on campus. Otis is the founding director of Artwork Trenton’s All Day, one of Trenton’s biggest cultural events. The all-day festival allows individuals to explore Trenton through artist studios, gallery spaces, workshops and public art. There are expected to be about 65 participants this year when the day kicks off on Saturday, Nov. 8. One of the important themes emphasized by Otis was the importance and significance of community created by art. “When people can come together and appreciate the beauty of art, it truly is a
Kyle Bennion / Photo Editor
Artworks focuses on promoting artistic diversity and art appreciation.
remarkable thing,” Otis said. “The sense of community that can be brought to the city reminds us that Trenton is so much more than what most people think.” Another important discussion point that branched off from the feeling of community was the impact of networking. “Art All Day is physically only a one-day event, but the amount of networking created among artists, organizations and businesses lasts a lifetime,” Otis said. “We give people a chance to not only have future work, but also the chance to do something they love.”
It’s also important to note that Art All Day is not the only cultural event the city has to offer. Other highlights include the Trenton African-American Cultural Festival, the Trenton Punk Rock Flea Market and the Windows of Soul. A big reason why all these opportunities are possible is due to the business Artworks. This 50-year-old company, 25 years in Trenton specifically, focuses distinctly on promoting artistic diversity by making sure the appreciation and importance of the arts is not ignored.
Otis, a fellow board of trustee member for five years now, had nothing but good things to say about the company. “The great thing about Artworks is the fact that it’s not limited to just one demographic. There are opportunities for all ages, interest levels, and artistic ability,” he said. After the lecture, many students asked questions focused on how Otis got to where he is today, but one question that stood out from the rest was when freshman Tim Hosmer asked, “Did you ever expect to make such a difference in people’s lives?” Otis paused for a second and had to really think, but his response was certainly worth the wait. “Growing up, I wanted to make a difference in my life by creating great art that I could enjoy,” Otis said. “Although I now know that creating opportunities for others to make great art who normally wouldn’t have the chance is more rewarding. Never could I imagine art would have such a positive impact on those I surround myself with. It truly is an honor.”
Signals perform hilarious Halloween show By Jonathan Edmondson Arts & Entertainment Editor
With wild cheers and contagious energy, the Mixed Signals rushed into the Library Auditorium on Sunday, Oct. 19, to prepare for their second show of the semester. Only this time, there were a few new faces among the troupe during their introduction. Last weekend, the group held auditions, as they do every fall. This year, they added five new
members — junior Alyssa Hess, freshmen Nolan DeVoe and Emma Young and sophomores Ian Cooley and Emily Mullin. These newbies will go through training with the returning members before taking the stage with them later this year. “Being on the other side of auditions this year was both strange and amazing,” said junior computer science and interactive multimedia double major Matthew Steurer, who was added as a member just last year. “I got to watch a lot of
Jonathan Edmondson / Arts & Entertainment Editor
Signals president Munoz leads troupe in a variety of games.
talented people come out.” After the five new members sat down to watch the performance, the troupe kicked off a hilarious set led by president Steven Munoz. The show, which included all of the performers dressed up like a different musical genre in honor of Halloween, featured and engaging setlist filled with games new and old. One particularly popular skit involved lines that audience members wrote out before the show. The three actors had these lines in their pockets and pulled them out at random times during the scene and said them aloud, which led to hilarious incidents. The troupe meets twice a week to work on group chemistry and practice games for their next show. To keep a true improvisational spirit, they build scenes around audience suggestions during an actual performance. It is a testament to their theatrical talents and creative minds. They, of course, could not do it without each other.
Jonathan Edmondson / Arts & Entertainment Editor
The Mixed Signals have a fun, close-knit dynamic.
“I am most excited to help the new members become more acquainted with the troupe as a whole,” Steurer said. “Improv can largely be influenced by the dynamics between the performers.” The Mixed Signals’ close-knit dynamic could be seen toward the end of their set when they played a game involving all of the members. The scene began on the day of prom and transitioned into the event itself, showcasing all of the
actors in original and fun ways. The audience consistently reacted to watching friends laughing on stage. The spirit was contagious, and it was clear that the troupe had strong chemistry. “Being a Signal has influenced my life in ways that I cannot begin to describe,” Steurer said. “It has brought me so much happiness, laughter and a tight knit camaraderie into my life that I can never repay in full.”
October 29, 2014 The Signal page 15
Alumni shine during a Homecoming Rat show By Erin Cooper Correspondent
Former students came back to town with a burst of sound on Friday, Oct. 25, for Alumni Night at the Rathskeller. By 5 p.m. a crowd had already gathered, comprised of current students and alumni alike. They greeted each other with handshakes and hugs, their conversation buzzing between the brick walls. Shane Dermanjian, junior international studies major and College Union Board Rat chair, was busy setting up before the show. “A lot of alums show up because it’s the Rat,” said Dermanjian, who was expecting more than the usual turnout of 60 to 80 for CUB’s Rat shows. Not only was it Alumni Night, but the Greek Alumni were having their reunion in the Rat, too, with free food drawing considerable numbers to the crowd. The night’s first performer was Paul Bernardo aka PA Angelo, class of ’11, backed up by Derek Krommelbein on drums. Wearing worn, torn sneakers and bearing a black electric guitar, Bernardo’s sharp, acidic vocals were accompanied by humming riffs and the sure rhythm of Krommelbein’s bright blue drums. Bernardo was an active performer, jumping up excitedly, then later
getting down on the floor as he continued to play his guitar. The performance was unexpectedly interrupted midway by an unidentified person with a special announcement: “Antonio is still a virgin,” he declared, and the crowd, including the presumed Antonio, laughed. With good humor, PA Angelo included Antonio in the lyrics of his next song, much to Antonio’s amusement. “Thank you, Antonio!” Bernardo called out at the song’s end. The Dundees took the stage next, featuring Dan Gibson, Matthew Mance and Sam Moeller, all from the class of ’14, and Matt Prestia, who did not attend the College. The Dundees have existed as a band for four years. The powerful vocals from Gibson rose over the surge and crash of the band’s three guitars as they played. It was an energetic performance, complete with dancing on stage, presided over by the guitars’ wall of sound. “It’s kind of weird to be back and not be a student,” Gibson said of his return to the College. “I feel like a grown-up, and it’s weird.” The Dundees played shows in the Rat when their members were students, and according to Gibson, there were “more people (in the Rat) than there have ever been.” The
Michael Cort / Photo Assistant
Bernardo performs with sharp vocals and powerful rhythm by Krommelbein.
band’s name came from one of the band’s former drummers, whose grandmother lived in Dundee, Scotland. The drummer eventually moved away, but the name stuck around. When asked what he’d been doing lately outside of his work with the band, Gibson chuckled and said he was “trying to get a job.” In addition, Moeller is starting graduate school at Rowan.
Angie Bernardo, the mother of PA Angelo’s lead singer, was in the center of the crowd that night, cheering enthusiastically first for her son and then for the Dundees. She was also impressed by the turnout at the Rat. “It’s so much energy, the young people,” Angie said. “It’s good for them to have a place to come.”
‘Freak Show’ is spookier and crazier than ever By Brett Sanders Staff Writer
“American Horror Story” has swept the nation with excitement. With a recurring cast, each season playing different characters and focusing on new types of horror, there is nothing not to love about the creative feel the show displays. When “American Horror Story: Freak Show” premiered three weeks ago, advertisements were seen everywhere. Back for the fourth season, the show centers on
AP Photo
Lange is divinely magical as freak show leader Elsa.
a bunch of “freaks” who will do anything to make their show survive and turn in a profit. With three episodes in, the characters are crazier than ever — in the best way possible — the cinematography is spookier and the experience of watching it is more enjoyable. The great thing about “Freak Show” is that even though it is set in the 1950s, the theme of wanting to fit in and find a place in society is just as meaningful, if not more so, today. Even further, the characters aren’t hard to relate to, for every individual on the show represents a broken dream yet still possesses a glimmer of hope for a better life. Overall, the thing that makes “Freak Show” great is how the horror aspect is conveyed in a meaningful artistic form. From the set design to the acting, every part of “American Horror Story” is a work of art. And the cast is stronger than ever. Evan Peters is back in his fourth season on the show, playing a developing man who has lobster claws for hands, using his “freakiness” to bring sexual pleasure to women galore. Peters is fine as this character, but his acting is average compared to the powerfully emotional performances that surround him. Kathy Bates, who won an Emmy for her performance on the third season of the show, is nothing less than spectacular, playing a bearded woman who has a depressing past and simply wants the best for her son (Peters’ character). Sarah Paulson portrays Bette and Tot Tattler, conjoined
twins who have polar opposite personalities. Paulson is great playing these two individuals who share a body, and the special effects complement her performance. The greatest performance, however, belongs to Jessica Lange, who also won an Emmy last season for the show. The emotion Lange shows as Elsa, the freak show leader who longs to be recognized as a world-class singer, is pure and congenial, making it an honor for the viewer to experience her stunning performance. Being three episodes into the season at the time of this review, the show itself is more weird than frightening. The scariest parts come from a clown who has a disproportionate jaw, so he puts on half a mask to cover his freakish mouth. This aspect of the show is sure to send shivers down the spine of anyone who has coulrophobia. It will be interesting to see where the story goes with this murderous clown. As the story further develops, it is hopeful that the show will become more terrifying and not just abnormal. Despite this longing to be scarier, “American Horror Story: Freak Show” is one of the best programs currently on television. With respect to students, college has the potential to be stressful and feel like nothing but perpetual schoolwork. It is nice to take an hour out each week to let one’s mind wander and enter an enrapturing story. “American Horror Story: Freak Show” has something in it for everyone, even if you don’t find indulgence in horror.
‘Boxtrolls’ features superb stop motion animation
By Sorraya Brashear-Evans Staff Writer
“The Boxtrolls” is a film adaptation of the book “Here Be Monsters!” by Alan Snow. The story takes place in the town of Cheesebridge, where citizens live in constant fear of the Boxtrolls — which are small monsters that live underground but come out at night to steal arbitrary objects from around town. One night, a baby boy disappears from the town and the Boxtrolls are immediately blamed of kidnapping and eating him. But instead of eating the baby boy named Eggs, the Boxtrolls raise the child as one of their own. The Boxtrolls only steal discarded items, which they take to their homes in order to build intricate devices. They teach the boy how to use trash to make awesome inventions, and he spends many years with his adoptive father, Fish, making inventions to create music. As the amount of captures by the exterminators increase, Eggs has an encounter with a girl of his own age from the outside world, Winnie, and together the two
set out to save the Boxtrolls. What makes the Boxtrolls an extremely well-crafted film is the dismantlement of prejudice ideals, particularly tackling classism. Cheesebridge has two distinct classes: the White Hats, which are among the richest and run the town, and the Red Hats, which are the bulk of the town. The head exterminator, Snatcher, is a Red Hat who desperately dreams of moving up to a White Hat — so much so that he’s willing to kill all of the Boxtrolls to do it. The Boxtrolls make up the lowest class which are ignored or feared by the middle and upper class. This film has a lot to say about the way classes’ function in our society, from the cutthroat attitude toward advancement, to the callous indifference of those with power toward those who don’t have as much. Besides prejudice, the relationship between Fish and Eggs is also a major component of the film. They go through a stressful time when Eggs finds out that he isn’t a Boxtroll and was in fact adopted by Fish when he was a baby. He questions the many truths he grew up believing; the most important being
able to look past the surface and seeing what lies beneath. The true definition of a father is also brought into play, as Egg’s real father is found and he becomes conflicted on who is actually his father. Although Fish isn’t his biological father, he raised Eggs to the best of his ability and loved him all the same. Winnie explains to Eggs that a father is someone who protects you no matter what, but fathers come in all shapes and sizes and in this case, species. It was this message that had me slightly dabbing my eyes in the back rows of the movie theater. Stop motion animation is a time consuming process that requires a near meticulous attention to detail. The process of taking 24 photos of precisely positioned models for every second of film (because the standard cinematic frame rate is 24 fps) is a doubly difficult discipline. Just think about it: a minute of footage you see contains 1,440 photos, so “The Boxtrolls,” a film that ran at least 100 minutes long, is comprised of 144,000 photos, each one slightly moved to create the illusion of life. “The Boxtrolls” is remarkable for the
fact that the film has a distinctive, grotesque visual appeal that sets it apart from typical animation films. Nothing is quite the shape it should be, with roads twisting and turning round architecturally dubious houses populated by bulbous and bony people, similar to both “ParaNorman” and “Coraline.” The animators at Laika are gradually carving out their own niche in the market, and it’s constantly refreshing to see.
AP Photo
‘Boxtrolls’ has distinctive visual appeal.
page 16 The Signal October 29, 2014
SARNOFF INNOVATION LECTURE SERIES Fall 2014 at The College of New Jersey
OCTOBER 29
“THE BUSINESS OF RESEARCH AT RCA”
The Sarnoff Collection at the College of New Jersey is pleased to present the inaugural Sarnoff Innovation Lecture Series.
FALL 2014 LECTURE
ONGOING EXHIBITION
“The Business of Research at RCA: A 21st-Century Reflection on Industrial R&D in the Age of Big Science”
“Innovations that Changed the World: An Introduction to the David Sarnoff Collection”
Margaret B.W. Graham, PhD Associate Professor of Strategy and Organization, The Desautels Faculty of Management, McGill University Co-sponsored by TCNJ’s School of Business Wednesday, October 29, 5:00 p.m. Roscoe West Hall, Room 201
Wednesday, 1:00 – 5:00 p.m. | Sundays, 1:00 -3:00 p.m. And by appointment for groups and school visits, 609-771-2543
The Sarnoff Collection is named in honor of David Sarnoff, longtime chairman of RCA, founder of the National Broadcasting Company (NBC), and internationally renowned pioneer in radio and television. To leatrn more about Sarnoff Collection programs and to see more than 1,000 artifacts in the collection, please visit www.tcnj.edu/sarnoff. 609-771-2654 | sarnoff@tcnj.edu School of Business Center for Innovation and Ethics
October 29, 2014 The Signal page 17
Sports
Soccer highlights Homecoming show Women dish out a 9-0 win over WP By Michael Battista Staff Writer The women’s soccer team stole the show during the Homecoming sporting events, beating William Paterson University 9-0 with a dominating display on Saturday, Oct. 25. The Lions spent most of the game in the Pioneer’s zone, taking a grand total of 26 shots during the game (12 during the first half and 14 during the second), compared to the four taken by William Paterson during both halves. Lions sophomore defenseman Brianna Petro, who was able to score her first goal of the season (42:16) and earned the team’s game hat — marking the player of the game — thought the defense was outstanding. “They played well all around,” she said. “We worked really hard to get the ball back every time we lost it.” The team rarely lost the ball, however, and when they did, it was only for one to three minute bursts. The Pioneers could never really get anything going against the Lions during the full 90 minutes. Senior Korrie Harkins, who scored a hat trick during the game with three goals (9:16, 46:55, and 55:42), further complimented the team’s defense.
Gina Caprara (74:52) and freshman Hannah Richman (83:49). After that kind of performance, however, Petro wasn’t going to let cockiness take over, as she looked to where the team could improve. “We still have things to work on — our energy at times and our missed opportunities are some of them,” she said. Coach Joe Russo went on to include that practices will focus more on offensive play as well. “We can become more dangerous in the attacking third and as a team altogether,” he said. The team’s previous scheduled game against Steven’s Institute of Technology on Tuesday, Oct. 22, was canceled due to inclement weather. The next game is the last of the regular season against Rowan University on Tuesday, Oct. 28, at home. After that, the playoffs start, and depending on the result of Tuesday’s game, the Lions may receive a bye in the first round. Harkins, however, believes the team’s focus lies on the more imminent task. “We have one more regular season game, that’s what matters,” she said. “We’ll celebrate this win today. Tomorrow, we look toward our next game.”
Photo courtesy of the Sports Information Desk
Sophomore Brianna Petro scores her first goal of the season. “They work hard,” Harkins said. “They’re hard to get past.” When the defense wasn’t busy keeping the Pioneers at bay, the offense really shined. The Lions offense was able to both outmaneuver and force its way through a confused Pioneers defensive line.
Harkins went on to say that “everyone on the team was high energy” and that the buildup of energy allowed for an explosive offensive performance. The rest of the goals came from freshman Elizabeth Thoreson (5:44), freshman Jessica Goldman (5:44 and 57:35), senior
Cheap Seats
Concussions a ‘Chief’ problem in the NFL By Kevin Luo Staff Writer
Many old-school football purists claim that the NFL is getting too soft with some of its rule changes. It’s hard to argue that, but one aspect of the player safety movement in the league that everyone should support is the insistence on preventing and monitoring concussions and other head and neck injuries. Throughout my years of playing football, coaches have always said that you should play if you’re hurt but not injured, but I don’t think anyone should be playing around when it comes to head, neck and brain injuries. The current league protocol implemented in 2013 has guidelines on how teams should handle suspected concussion candidates during and after games. During the game, the team medical staff, along with an “eye in the sky” in the press box, are supposed to closely watch the field in search of players who have potentially suffered head injuries. There is also a neuro-trauma expert on the sidelines not affiliated with the league who is there to assist the team medical personnel. If a player is suspected of having a concussion, the team medical staff is supposed to immediately remove the player from the game, evaluate them based off a checklist and ask them certain questions to test the player’s concentration and memory. If a trainer deems
AP Photo
Chiefs running back Jamaal Charles remains playing after receiving a concussion. that a player has a concussion, he must be taken to the locker room for further evaluation. I think this is a great protocol for trying to contain the concussion issue in the league. However, there is an issue with this protocol that was put on display this past weekend in the ChiefsChargers game. Early in the second quarter, Chiefs star running back Jamaal Charles scored a 16yard touchdown. Upon crossing
the goal line, he took a hard shot to the head from Chargers cornerback Brandon Flowers that resulted in Flowers leaving the game with a concussion. Charles got up relatively quickly and went to the sideline without appearing to be seriously injured, but everyone watching the game could see he definitely got his bell rung. He was not given the concussion protocol test and remained in the game.
The following day, he told an ESPN radio show, “It definitely hurt. It’s like I woke up … I mean, like, a couple plays later, I was seeing light bulbs, like light bulbs around my eyes, and I was trying to catch them. But I was in the game so I was like, ‘Alright, let’s get the ball and run again.’” He also said that he didn’t feel like he had a concussion, but more importantly, he didn’t want to go through the concussion protocol,
possibly causing him to be taken out of the game like when he was taken out of the team’s playoff loss last season against the Colts. Here’s where the problem lies with the concussion protocol: Even though it was shown that Charles didn’t have a concussion in a Tuesday post-game concussion test, the team medical personnel should’ve at least tested him during the game. It’s not about the first concussion most of the time. The real damage a player can take that can cause major, long-term problems is if a player faces a second concussion without having adequate time to heal from the first concussion. It’s the job of the team medical staff to protect the players from themselves. Even if a player doesn’t show obvious signs of a concussion after getting hit, when they take a big hit to the head similar to the one Charles took, the medical staff needs to take the initiative to prohibit from re-entering the game until he’s been looked at. If a player doesn’t have concussion symptoms, the test should only take a few minutes. There was no excuse in Charles’ case for the medical staff to not even check on him. He had just scored a touchdown, and the Chiefs were about to go on defense. I hope it won’t take a major star sustaining multiple concussions in the same game for team medical personnel to take more initiative in these cases.
page 18 The Signal October 29, 2014
October 29, 2014 The Signal page 19
Simels / The A win on Prudential Center ice hero in Club Ice hockey splits the weekend Sports chaos Ice Hockey
Julie Kayzerman / Sports Editor
Junior forward Matt Martin skates the puck into the offensive zone. By Julie Kayzerman Sports Editor After the College’s ice hockey team felt a discouraging 2-0 loss against Rider, they took the ice the following day on the main rink at the Prudential Center, where they rolled over NJIT, 6-2. While the Lions share their home ice with Rider at the Loucks Ice Center, the Lions played as the away team – leaving bleachers swarmed with fans in red. But it was the lack of finishing that hurt the Lions in an intense game against their rival, satisfying the packed arena with Rider apparel.
While the College admirably held its own on defensive against the Broncs, specifially displaying a highly talented back-end with the outstanding play of junior Gary L’Heureux and sophomore Dylan McMurrer. The pair has continuously stepped up as a solid wall in front of goalie David Laub and as an offensive drive, winning the puck back and skating it up into the offensive zone to the forwards, instead of just dumping it out of danger. “The two of them played exceptional,” Coach Joseph Cucci said. “They’ve been phenomenal this year.” The defense was also significantly
backed up by the play of seniors Nick Wilenchansky, Daniel Guglielmo and junior Steven Czachor, who proved to be a solid force during penalty kills. “Our defensive core as a whole played great, we count on those guys big time,” Cucci said. Laub sported a fantastic showing in the defeat, perhaps his best of the season, with 30 saves, coming from powerful drives by Rider’s offensive lines. “When Laub is on his game, you couldn’t ask for a better goalie,” Cucci said. As scoring has been a consistent struggle for the Lions this season after graduating major goal scorers last year, but taking the ice the next day on Saturday, Oct. 26, they started showing that this team can, in fact, produce. The College capitalized on three power plays against NJIT on Saturday, Oct. 25, with goals from freshmen forward Nick Paranzine, junior forward Billy Regan and senior defenseman Daniel Gugliemo. Junior defenseman Gary L’Heureux picked up two of the power play assists while Paranzine added the sixth goal with 2:15 left in the game. However, the second period — what has continuously proved to be a section of trouble for the Lions — went scoreless for both teams. But the College put the game away in the third, powering in four goals including one from sophomore Robert Notley who recorded his first goal on the team.
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Simels, a graduate of the University of North Carolina, spent time as the Director of Intramurals and Recreation at Dickinson College before accepting the vacant position here at the College. He explained that the job presented an exciting challenge for him to take on. “Really, (I came here) because of the school and opportunities that it had to offer. I think there’s a big future in recreation here and developing a holistic recreational program based on fitness, intramurals and club sports,” Simels said. Simels added that he was drawn to the school because of the opportunities that the College has to offer. Above all, Simels wants to build a “culture of recreation” at the College — a culture where students want to be active. “Doing some sort of physical activity, if it’s as simple as going for a hike to as competitive as playing rugby, there’s a benefit to it that will meet their academic goals as well as the mission of the school,” Simels said. Overall, Simels’s goal is to build every program, from the Physical Enhancement Center to intramural sports, to be the best they can be for the students’ use. “My favorite part of the job is interacting with students, learning what students want,” he said. “I think the students here are great. They have a lot of great ideas about what they want to see, and hopefully we can get some good things going.”
SC&I Graduate Programs Open House Nov. 5 • 6:30 p.m. Livingston Student Center, Room 202 ABC “If you’re offered a seat on a rocket ship, don’t ask what seat! Just get on.” — Sheryl Sandberg, COO, Facebook The School of Communication and Information offers two graduate degrees that can launch your successful career through programs tailored for our evolving digital age. •
Master of Communication and Information Studies (MCIS) – Choose from Digital Media, Strategic Organization, Health Communication or a general path of study.
•
Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) – Commanding a #6 ranking nationwide by U.S. News & World Report, our MLIS program offers flexibility with in-class, 100% online or hybrid coursework.
It’s time to take your seat and see where an MCIS or MLIS can take you. Meet our faculty and staff, get an inside perspective from current students, and learn how you can design your own program on campus, online or both.
Attend in person or online via live stream. RSVP to attend or learn more: comminfo.rutgers.edu/tcnj
comminfo.rutgers.edu/tcnj Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
page 20 The Signal October 29, 2014
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LIONS
October 29, 2014 The Signal page 21
AROUND THE
DORM 5 3
Peter Fiorilla “The Ref”
George Tatoris Staff Writer
Kevin Luo
Staff Writer
Kyle Bennion Photo Editor
In this week’s Around the Dorm, the “Ref,” Peter Fiorilla, asks our panel of experts three questions: Has Kobe been worth the off-the-court trouble for the Lakers over the past few years, is Denver already the favorite for the AFC crown and Super Bowl, and MLS playoffs start next week. Who will take home the title, and why?
1. ESPN recently published a story saying Kobe Bryant’s alpha dog attitude has been the cause of the Lakers’ recent struggles. Has Kobe been worth the offthe-court trouble for the Lakers over the past few years? Kyle: There is no time when Kobe Bryant is NOT worth the possible off-the-court troubles that he brings. Until recently with his injuries, he was a top-five player in the NBA and is the greatest Laker of all time. He is a player seen as the modern day Michael Jordan, and he is as close to a “player-GM” as anyone else in the league. His presence inspires confidence in the players around him, and it puts butts in the seats at the Staples Center. Kobe Bryant will always be worth the struggles that come with him. Kevin: Kobe Bryant has obviously struggled with injury and has been in decline over the last few years of his career. But I don’t think it’s fair to say he hasn’t been worth the trouble over the last few
AP Photo
seasons. He’s been the face of the Lakers for a majority of his career. Other than various injuries, the biggest problem for
the Lakers recently has been the management. Mike Brown and Mike D’Antoni were both bad fits as the Lakers head
coaches. Also, Jim Buss has been a disaster as the executive VP of basketball operations — the man responsible for basketball decisions. When his father, the legendary Jerry Buss, passed away, he left the keys to the cars to his son. Jim has no respect around the league and most people around the league believe the team would be in much better hands if Jim’s sister, Jeanie, was in charge. It was Jim who insisted on giving Kobe his big contract, and he was the one who didn’t bring in Phil Jackson to help run the team. George: Kobe’s a good player. Sure, he can be a bit of a jerk off-court, but the stuff he does on the court more than makes up for it. He’s the league’s third highest ranked player in postseason scoring. He’s the league’s fourth highest ranked player in all-time regular season scoring. He’s a 16time All-Star. Newer talents should be intimidated by the man, he’s got experience they don’t have in addition to raw talent.
Kevin gets 3 points for assessing the Lakers’ other problems. George gets 2 points for highlighting Kobe’s accomplishments, and Kyle gets 1 point for saying Kobe is the modern MJ.
AP Photo
2. Peyton Manning broke the all-time TD record, and Denver’s defense is unbreakable through seven games. Is Denver already the favorite for the AFC crown and Super Bowl?
Kyle: I’ve been high on Denver (excuse the pun) since the preseason, after its incredible offseason pickups and minimal player cuts. Now, with the defense looking impenetrable, Peyton Manning, at age
38(!!!), is playing at the highest level any quarterback has ever played at. Denver is not only looking like the favorite for the AFC Championship, but the favorite for the Super Bowl, as well. The NFC appears to be in tough luck this season. Kevin: Denver is definitely the favorite to win both the conference and the Super Bowl right now. Its offense might be more explosive than it was last year, with the addition of Emmanuel Sanders and the return of all-pro offensive tackle Ryan Clady. Its defense is definitely better and more physical than last year with the additions of Aqib Talib, Demarcus Ware and T.J. Ward. However, I wouldn’t say Denver is an overwhelming favorite. In its own conference, I think the Patriots are always a threat, and Tom Brady might have been the best quarterback in the league last month. The other conference is where there are more threats with Dallas, Philly, Green Bay and
a few teams in the NFC West. The biggest downgrade from last year for Denver is its running game. Ronnie Hillman has looked pretty good the last couple weeks, but overall, the team has not run the ball nearly as well as last year when it had Knowshon Moreno, and running becomes much more important come playoff time. George: Of course they are. Super Bowl XLVIII saw the Broncos in an awkward position. They had one of the best offenses in the league, but had a mediocre defense. As a result, the Broncos suffered a humiliating 43-8 defeat at the hands of Seattle. This year, though, they’ve upped their game. The Broncos defense has the top two sack leaders in the league this season: defensive end DeMarcus Ware and outside linebacker Von Miller, who’ve racked up a total of seven and nine sacks respectively. The Broncos have been working hard to correct what was wrong with them last year.
Kevin gets 3 points for an in-depth analysis. Kyle gets 2 points for the Denver pun, and George gets 1 point for pointing out the Broncos’ improved defense. 3. MLS playoffs start next week. Who will take home the title, and why? Kyle: With Major League Soccer entering the playoffs, the New England Revolution is bound for the title. Its entire roster will be playing, since none of the Revolution players will be playing with the national team. Its playoff run is manageable, with D.C. United providing the biggest challenge. That being said, the Revolution has the talent and swagger to take down the United. This is a team that finally believes it is ready to win right now, and while it hasn’t proven itself yet, it’s time to take the title like the team believes it can. Kevin: My favorite to win the title in the MLS is the Los Angeles Galaxy. Even though it just drew to the Seattle Sounders who are at the top of the table, it has been one of the most impressive teams all season and is way ahead in terms of goal differential over all the teams in the league. It has a strong big three up top in Landon Donovan, Robbie Keane and Gyasi Zardes, who have carried the team
in the scoring department, but it has also tied for the league lead in fewest goals allowed. Overall, along with being tremendously talented, I think one of the things that will carry the Galaxy over the top is the emotion of trying to help Landon Donovan ride off into the sunset with a title. He’s retiring at the end of the season and many players have said that they would love to see him win a title in his final season. George: LA Galaxy, probably. In the Western Conference, the team is only behind the Seattle Sounders, which it played this weekend. Although they lost, Galaxy was missing its top scorer that game — Robbie Keane — and a number of other players. They also have a cool name. Like, Galaxies are huge, man. Absolutely huge. If there was a team called, I don’t know, the Ottawa Universes, then they’d be in trouble. But there isn’t. They go against teams with names like the Sounders. What the heck even is a Sounder? The real question is, who watches the MLS Playoffs in the first place?
Kevin gets 3 points for pointing out the Galaxy’s goal differential. Kyle gets 2 points for picking the hot Revs, and George gets 1 point for the MLS jab.
Kevin wins Around the Dorm, 9-5-4
AP Photo
page 22 The Signal October 29, 2014
Close dynamic leads to a winning team Swimming and Diving
Photo courtesy of The Sports Information Desk
Both the men’s and women’s teams swim to success at Packer Hall.
By Jess Ganga Social Media Editor
The College’s swimming and diving team increased its winning record to 2-0 with a thrilling win against Montclair State University in the home opener on Friday, Oct. 24. The Packer Hall swimming pool was surrounded by family and friends who came to support and watch every dominating performance by both the men’s and women’s teams. The men’s team came out strong by
winning its first event, the 200-yard medley relay. Senior Aleksander Burzynski, junior James Shangle, junior Joseph Dunn and senior Brian Perez swam to a winning time of 1:35.57. The men went one, two and three with sophomore Ryan Gajdzdisz touching the wall at a time of 10:08.5. Freshman Logan Barnes and sophomore Jason Ivins had equally impressive times of 10:18.06 and 10:22.91, respectively. The swimmers all began very close, but by the third lap, some of the men started breaking away
from the pack, and in the end, the Lions came out on top. The men’s team was able to sweep four more events — men’s 200-yard freestyle, men’s 100-yard backstroke, men’s 100yard breaststroke and men’s 50-yard freestyle. In the men’s exhilarating 50-yard freestyle, Dunn put up a jaw-dropping time of 21.01 — a time that almost beat the current record set at 20.22 by assistant coach Adam Schneider. As the swimmers took to the pool to race, the dynamic team relationship among the men was clear. During the men’s 200-yard freestyle, the men’s teammates were all on their feet, some on the bleachers, to watch their teammates glide effortlessly through the water and take the win. The women’s team also wielded that close dynamic. During the women’s 100yard backstroke, teammates could be heard yelling, “go, go, go” as sophomore Brenna Strollo finished with a winning time of 1:00.83 — beating her previous time of 1:02.06 from their last meet. The women, like the men, swept the top spots. Freshman Katie Kilfeather and freshman Jill Galindo had times of 1:03.53 and 1:04.47, respectively. Strollo, once again, had another successful meet, coming in first in three out of four of her events — the women’s 200-yard IM at 2:16.45 and the women’s 200-yard medley relay along with teammates Brennah Ross, Marta Lawler and Lauren Rothstein. “All my mental preparation comes from practice,” Strollo said about her preparation for meets. “No thinking goes on during a meet.” The swimmers all looked focused
Men’s Soccer
before stepping onto the platform. Some could be seen stretching and preparing their muscles for the intense work about to be put in. Others chose to drown out the noise of the meet with their headphones. Whatever they chose to do, it seemed to work. Like the men, the women’s team had many exciting wins and swam with ease. In the women’s 1,000-yard freestyle, MSU was dominating the pool with a strong start. Toward the end of the long event, the women’s team started catching up. It was a close win, but freshman Ali Huber was able to take the top spot — with a time of 11:40.55 — only five seconds before MSU’s second-place swimmer. The freshmen swimmers came to compete and are blending right in with the rest of the team, as well. “The team has been amazing,” freshman Cassidy Bergeron said. “I just love it!” Bergeron explained that although it has been tough adjusting to both college and the team, her teammates are all there to be supportive. Coach Jennifer Hartnett spoke about how the new swimmers came in with a great attitude, and that they were all on board with the goals of the season. “I’m so impressed with how they stepped up already,” Hartnett said, explaining that most freshmen take about a semester to get used to the team, but this group started fitting in early in the semester. With this and last week’s win, Hartnett is ready to see what the rest of the season has to offer and has a lot of faith in her strong team. “I’m really excited about where we’re at right now,” Hartnett said. “I’m excited to see how we do as the year continues.”
Field Hockey
Eliminated from NJAC playoffs NJAC / Six seniors are celebrated By Peter Fiorilla News Editor
The men’s soccer team fell in overtime to William Paterson University, 1-0, in an anticlimactic penultimate game that eliminated the College from NJAC playoff contention. The Lions (6-9-2, 2-6) knew they needed at least a draw to keep their NJAC hopes alive heading into this week’s season finale. But as it is, a squad largely made up of underclassmen will now look to use a disappointing season as a learning experience for next year. “Dealing with adversity is part of the learning process,” junior goalkeeper Maciej Libucha said. “We had our ups and downs this season. If the guys returning next year can take the positives from this season and straighten out the things that didn’t go so well, there is no doubt in my mind the team will bounce back next year.” However, he Lions had given themselves multiple opportunities to win the game against William Paterson in both halves. The best chance might have come in the 20th minute when sophomore midfielder Jason O’Donnell hit a header off the post, and freshman forward Michael Kassak had a pair of late breakaways that were snuffed out by the Ospreys’ goalkeeper. But William Paterson put the game away with a golden goal in the 92nd minute, as strong individual play from freshman forward Chris Noel — who took a pass into the box, fought off his defender and rocketed a shot into the net — gave the road team the three points.
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Photo courtesy of the Sports Information Desk
Junior goalkeeper Maciej Libucha saves the ball for the Lions.
The goal came despite a solid defensive effort and 14-save game from Libucha, who rarely faced any shots from inside the box. “The communication throughout the game was pretty good from me all the way into the midfield, which allowed us to defend tightly as a unit and only limit William Paterson to those long distance
shots,” Libucha said. “It’s been a part of the game plan from our coach all season. Offensively, though, the Lions were shutout for the fifth time in nine conference games, a record the Lions will try to improve upon in their final game of the season against Rowan University on Wednesday, Oct. 29.
On Sunday, the Lions played their last home game of the season and held a ceremony before the game to honor their six seniors: Erin Healy, Marissa Pennypacker, Erin Waller, Lindsey Hatch, Victoria Martin and Amanda Krause. While the game was emotional for the seniors, they understood the implications. A win against Juniata College would set up a game versus Rowan on Saturday, Nov. 1, to decide the top seed of the NJAC tournament. Fortunately, the Lions were able to come away with a win on Senior Day with a goal five minutes into the second half by none other than Senior Lindsey Hatch, her 26th of the season. The score brought her to a year total of 71, becoming only the third player in program history to reach 70 points in a season. The real victory for the Lions was their defense, however, which didn’t allow a single shot on goal, making Krause and Schlupp’s job in goal easier. With the win, the Lions will travel to Glassboro to face off against Rowan University at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 1 and look to continue their success in the NJAC playoffs.
October 29, 2014 The Signal page 23
ports Week In Review The Horizon For
Sports
By Gabe Allen Staff Writer Glory to the fantasy Gods, Hallelujah! Heading into Monday Night Football, my “Gridiron Gang” leads the soon to finally be defeated “Prestera’s Pals” by 30 points. Unless Jason Witten, who has seen his targets regress drastically this year, outscores DeMarco Murray by 31 fantasy points tonight (highly unlikely), our two teams will be tied for No. 1 in the standings entering Week 9. Because Prestera’s quarterback, Peyton Manning, threw all three of his touchdown passes to Emmanuel Sanders, and Sanders is on my team (along with Broncos No. 1 receiver DeMaryius Thomas), Manning was effectively neutralized, with Sanders outscoring Manning by one point. To add insult to injury, both of Prestera’s backup quarterbacks — Tom Brady and Ben Roethlisberger — had their best showings of the NFL season. Manning is easily the top quarterback in fantasy football, averaging a robust 30 fantasy points per contest. However, this week, Brady and Roethlisberger were sizzling — posting 44 and 57 fantasy points, respectively, far exceeding Manning’s 29 points. In lieu of this, we might see “Prestera’s Pals” look
to make a trade in the coming weeks given her plentiful, but in this case obnoxious depth at the QB position. Elsewhere around the league, the Chris Springer-run “Tickle Monsters” is the only other team that boasts an above .500 record, leaving the fourth and final playoff spot completely up for grabs. The leading candidates for the final spot appear to be Signal first-ballot Hall of Fame legend Chris Molicki as well as current All-Star and firstballot Hall of Fame hopeful Andrew Grossman. Both teams improved to 44 this week, and as indicated by their presence on the waiver wire, seem determined to make postseason pushes. With only five weeks remaining in the “fantasy” regular season, the race for the playoffs is officially on. Things are about to get wild, weird and wacky, and before too long, two teams will be playing for “The Signal Shiva Bowl.” When everything and nothing hang in the balance, champions are crowned, and dreams are realized in their entirety, things are bound to get messy. Although there’s nothing tangible to gain from winning the “Lions League of Legends,” to quote “The Sandlot,” “Heroes get remembered, but legends never die. Follow your heart, kid.”
Men’s Soccer October 29 vs. Rowan University, 7:30 p.m. Women’s Swimming and Diving November 1 at Southern Connecticut State University, 4 p.m. Football November 1 vs. Kean University, 12 p.m. Field Hockey November 1 at Rowan University, 7 p.m. Men’s Swimming and Diving November 1 vs. New York Universtiy, 2 p.m. Cross Country November 1 NJAC Championships, TBA
THIS WEEK IN SPORTS HISTORY
On Oct. 29, 2008, the Philadelphia Phillies defeated the Tampa Bay Rays to win the World Series in five games. The teams picked up the final game in the bottom of the sixth inning, after rain had delayed the game for two days.
This week’s picks from the staff Staff
(NHL) Kings vs. Penguins
(NBA) Cavaliers vs. Bulls
(MLB) Giants vs. Royals
S T U D E N T AT H L E T E O F
THE WEEK
Amy Reynolds
Korrie Harkins Women’s Soccer Scored a hat trick in division win
Kevin Luo Gabe Allen
Senior Korrie Harkins scored three goals against division foe William Patterson in the Lions’ penultimate game before entering the NJAC playoffs. With her three goals, Harkins is now tied for second on the team in goals with seven on the year.
Kyle Bennion
?
Signal Trivia
Which baseball position has produced the most managers?
?
AP PHOTO
Last Week’s Trivia Answer :
The first ever Super Bowl MVP award was won by Green Bay’s Bart Starr. He led the Packers to back-to-back championships, collecting MVP honors in each victory.
Signal
Sports
Homecoming hype fails football The Lions fall to William Paterson, 21-0 By Anthony Caruso Staff Writer
Every year, students and alumni gather during the joyous celebration of Homecoming in and around Lions Stadium as the football team highlights the sporting events of the weekend. This year, the College’s football team was looking to win its Homecoming game like last year. But by the end of the game on Saturday afternoon, the Lions had dropped their fifth-straight game, and the Homecoming festivities took a hit. The William Paterson Pioneers defeated the Lions 21-0 at Lions Stadium. In the past two games, the Lions (1-6, 0-4 NJAC) were outscored 49-7. Their lone touchdown in these games came with 1:12 left in the fourth quarter against Montclair State when freshman running back Khani Glover scored on a 33-yard run. The Lions could only muster 163 offensive yards against the Pioneers. William Paterson (3-4, 1-3 NJAC) had 268 yards. “We just didn’t execute well (Saturday),” sophomore quarterback Michael Marchesano said.
Heiner Fallas / Staff Photographer
The football team continues on its quest for a win during a tough season.
“We need to do a better job of that.” Pioneers freshman Austin Fellows went 10 of 20 for 142 yards and a touchdown. The College had Marchesano begin the game as the signal caller, before being replaced by freshman Tyler Osler. Marchesano went three of 15 for 12 yards. Then, Osler came in and went six of 11 for 62 yards.
“Osler did some things well,” Coach Wayne Dickens said. “When he was in there, we were able to complete a long ball.” Lions freshman Gabriel Rios had a 34-yard reception, while junior Conor Mulholland had two receptions for 18 yards and sophomore Jeff Mattonelli added two receptions for 13 yards. Juniors Nick Craig and Andrew
Lachawiec each had a reception for eight yards. The Pioneers were led by junior receiver Anthony DiMarsico, who had five receptions for 62 yards. Fellow junior Dwaine Dabney added two catches for 46 yards, while sophomore Matt Delana had two for 20 yards. Junior Ian Leary had a catch for 14 yards.
Fifth NJAC win for field hockey By Otto Gomez Staff Writer The Lions continued their dominance over fellow New Jersey teams with their fifth win in NJAC conference play against William Paterson on Tuesday, Oct. 21. With one game left in their regular season schedule, the Lions are one step closer to securing the top seed in the upcoming NJAC tournament. The owner of the first seed is awarded home field advantage throughout the tournament, a gain that carries a lot of weight for all teams. In typical fashion, the Lions got on the board first against the Pioneers, scoring two goals in the first 15 minutes of the game. Senior Lindsey Hatch and sophomore Jaclyn Douglas were able to score, a feat that both have been able to complete often this season. Later in the period, the Lions scored again, making the game 3-0 off a goal by sophomore Danielle Andreula with the assist from senior Victoria Martin. This goal gave the team a strong lead going into the second half, as well as confidence for the rest of the
Lions’ Lineup October 29, 2014
I n s i d e
Delana had 56 rushing yards, while Dabney added 52 yards and DiMarsico contributed 45 yards. Junior Lions back Brad Young had 60 rushing yards, while Glover added 26 yards. The Lions had trouble marching down the field offensively, and Coach Dickens tried to jumpstart the offense by putting new players in, but nothing worked the way he had hoped. “We’ve tried most of the bullets in the gun,” Dickens said. “It’s just not happening right now. We’re having a tough time getting out of our own way.” The William Paterson offense struggled in the first quarter before getting on track in the second quarter. Then, in the second half, the Pioneers scored twice. Pioneers sophomore defensive back Jason Montalvo picked off Osler with 3:11 left in the game. Following the extra point, the visitors went up 21-0. DiMarsico scored the other two touchdowns. He caught a 15-yard touchdown reception by Fellows at 7:26 left in the fourth quarter. He also added an earlier 39-yard rushing touchdown with 2:20 left in the second quarter.
Rob Simels helps rescue club sports By Matt Bowker Production Manager
the game away at 6-1. Sophomore Kelly Schlupp continued her very strong season in goal, picking up her 15th win of the year and kept the opposition in check as she has done all year.
With no acting director, chaos reigned in the Intramurals and Club Sports program for the first month of the semester: Club teams were unable to schedule games and were disrupted in their everyday activities with the absence of a Club Sports director. That all changed once the new Director of Recreation, Robert Simels, was welcomed to the College a little over a month ago. Club Sports schedules are now returning to normal as Simels settles into his new job. “We’ve come up with a really good procedure, and things are starting to work out really well,” Simels said. With no time to get a feel for the job, Simels started right away to get the Club Sports program back on track. “It’s nice to jump right into it, because you don’t have time to think,” Simels said. “You can dip your toe in the pool and pull it out. I just cannonballed in. It just means you’re learning while doing instead of learning then doing.”
see NJAC page 22
see SIMELS page 19
Photo courtesy of the Sports Information Desk
The Lions ‘Play 4 a Cure’ during Sunday night’s game.
game. Senior Erin Waller was able to get on the board in the second half, adding a goal pretty early in the period. The Pioneers responded with a goal of their own 49 seconds later, but the Lions answered back with two scores by Andreula and Hatch to officially put
46 53 Around the Dorm page 21
Women’s soccer beats WP page 17
Jamaal Charles concussion page 17
Swimming dominates Page 22