Alvernian November 2009

Alvernia University 400 Saint Bernardine St. Reading PA 19607

November 2009 Volume 48 - Issue 2

Literary Festival Comes Into Its Own

By Lisa James Variety Editor

As the leaves began to change and the winds became cooler, the annual Greater Reading Literary Festival reached yet another successful finish. The festival included a number of events and gatherings open to anyone belonging to the surrounding community of Reading, PA.

Monday, October 12 was the official kickoff start to “Life Between the Pages.” The first event was a smash hit, where the National Slam Poetry championship team, “The Dynamic Duo,” captured the audience’s attention with its quick wit and charisma.

A wine and cheese social, sponsored by Alumni Relations, was held Wednesday night (Oct. 14th) in the Student Center. The social was a delicious treat that gave students, faculty and staff the chance to blend ideas, discuss current topics, and engage in conversations all while sipping on wine and listening to the soothing melody of a jazz duo.

Tuesday, October 20th brought a very important event to the Franco Library. A large turnout made seating scarce; however, special accommodations were met so

www.alvernia.edu

that seating was available for all to listen to New York Times’ bestselling author, Lee Woodruff, as she discussed her first book In an Instant.

The book was co-authored with her husband Bob Woodruff (an ABC News Anchor who was injured while on location as a correspondent in Iraq, back in 2006.) The book received great praise and remained on the bestseller list for four weeks. Woodruff discussed her book’s focal point: Iraq war veterans and millions of American civilians who are suffering from acute brain injuries.

Her presentation was life changing, as she spoke of the personal life journeys that led her to speak at Alvernia. Lee and her husband continue to speak out and raise awareness for their cause and have started a foundation in her husband’s honor; ReMIND.org. (Check it out online for further details.)

The literary festival continued its three-week-long celebration with several other riveting lectures

and events. Speaking of enthralling lectures, “The Consciousness of Nothing, from Art to Zen” presented by our very own professors Drs. Bongrae Seok & Marc Lucht took place in the Bernadine Lecture Hall on Thursday, October 22nd.

Lucht and Seok spoke on the beauty of nothingness and how it is much more than . . .well . . . nothing.

They provided a perspective that one would not ordinarily obtain when pondering certain ideas of substance.

“Once you know the properties of something, you can change its elements,” was one of the many stand-out excerpts from Dr. Lucht’s philosophies on our world and how we perceive it. Dr. Lucht’s passion for the topics of discussion played a major role in captivating the audience. As for Dr. Seok, he spoke of space and how it is much more than empty. Space is “rigid and strong,”

Dr. Seok said in his attempts to encourage the audience to embrace the concept of matter and nothingness.

All affairs for the Literary Festival were conveniently scheduled at various locations within Alvernia University’s main campus. The celebration concluded on October 30th, providing nearly twenty events in order to commemorate local and national authors who had been selected by the Literary Festival committee.

Overall, each and every event for this year’s “Lit Fest” were well attended and a tremendous amount of energy was generated from the entire Alvernia community. The conclusion of this fourth annual festival was the annual Halloween costume contest, sponsored in part by Alvernia’s Sigma Tau Delta chapter. This event included a special tribute to Edgar Allan Poe, a great representative of classic literature. Festivities took place in the Student Center at 1 p.m. along with a reception full of activities and delicious treats for all!

As the literary festival came to a close, Professor Susan Guay, of the English and Communications depart-

The student must also have a 3.0 GPA and have completed at least three semesters of college course work. Graduate students must be enrolled in a graduate program in English (or an English specialization), have completed six semester hours of graduate work and have a minimum GPA of 3.3. The cost for membership is a one-time international induction fee of $37.

According to Dr. Fitzpatrick, Sigma Tau Delta is a great organiza-

tion for those majoring in English or related disciplines such as Communications and Rhetoric. By joining Sigma Tau students receive a variety of benefits such as networking opportunities, scholarships, and internships.

Members of Sigma Tau Delta can apply for internship opportunities with major publishing companies and compete for several scholarships and awards. Members of Sigma Tau are

also hired on a higher pay scale when applying for jobs in the government.

Members can also submit papers for presentation at the Sigma Tau Delta International Convention in the spring.

The convention, held this year in St. Louis, Missouri from March 17-20, is a great opportunity for students to showcase their creative and intellectual talents in front of students and teachers who share the same interests. In the words of Dr. Fitzpat-

Literary Festival Continues on page 3

Sigma Tau Delta Affords Great Opportunities to Students Who Love English

By Tesia Smucker Features Editor

For students who have a love of literature and English, Alvernia’s Kappa Pi Chapter of Sigma Tau Delta is the perfect oasis. Students can gather here and share their love of literature and writing in an accepting environment.

Sigma Tau Delta is the National English Honor Society. Kappa Pi has been recognized as the most active chapter of Sigma Tau for the last ten years. Carrie Fitzpatrick, one of Sigma Tau’s faculty advisors, said, “[Sigma Tau Delta] was created to provide recognition and opportunity to undergraduate and graduate students who are passionate about language and literature, culture and service.”

Sigma Tau Delta was founded in 1924 at Dakota Wesleyan University and has over 750 active chapters located in the United States as well as Europe and the Caribbean. To become a member of Sigma Tau, an undergraduate student must have a minimum of two college courses (six credits) in English or literature beyond the usual English requirements.

New apartments experience small dificulties PAGE 4

Photo courtesy google.com Playoffs lackluster Page 6

Sigma Tau Continues on page 5

Photo courtesy google.com Death in entertainment PAGE 10

THE

Alvernian

The Flynn Files

Features Editor Tesia Smucker Entertainment Editor Angela Miller Sports Editor Scott Rodgers Variety Editor Lisa James Op-Ed Editor Amanda brown Advertising Editor Stephanie Gonzalez Faculty Advisor Dr. Michael Kramp

Staff Writers Devon Coleman Danielle Cortes James Hein Jessica Heller Jon Lozoskie Courtney Pizzi Vanessa Policare Patrick Watson Danya Webb

Contributors Dr. Gerald Vigna Dr. Thomas Flynn Jessica Lopez

The Alvernian is the official student newspaper of Alvernia University.

The office telephone number is (610) 796-8358.

Submissions for The Alvernian should be written in some semblance of AP style.

Letters to the editor, requests for advertisements, and general comments and questions may be submitted to Michael.Kramp@ alvernia.edu The editors reserve the right to edit submissions for clarity, accuracy, and length. The views expressed in The Alvernian are those of the individual writers and do not necessarily reflect the student body, faculty, staff, administration, or sponsors. ©2009 The Alvernian

Photo courtesy alvernia.edu

The O’Pake Science Center. The Upland Center. Renovated classrooms in Bernardine Hall (with more to come!). A Student Life building. An expanded Student Center and new Green Campus Commons. The Baseball and Softball Complex in Angelica Park. An on-campus Track and Field. Apartments for juniors and seniors, with private rooms and full kitchens.

And, yes, a very large parking lot.

Over the last few weeks, at several student and alumni gatherings, it was inspiring to hear the universal excitement about the physical transformation of the campus and the pride in Alvernia’s progress.

Those of us on the faculty, staff, and administration tend to focus on challenges ahead, needed improvements, the ways things might be better. But make no mistake: students understand they are at Alvernia at a historic time of rapid, positive progress. And they are delighted.

But it is not simply about many new facilities and physical changes, important though they are to our students’ living and learning environment. Alvernia’s vitality also involves the quality of campus life and a spirit of active engagement.

Perhaps a 10 –day stretch in late October makes the point. On consecutive nights, large crowds packed the Shander Room in the PEC and the Bonaventure Room in the Franco Library to hear the compelling testimony of a death penalty activist and an accomplished author who has written movingly about traumatic brain injury, especially as it affects those in combat. Campus Ministry sponsored the first event as part of their peace and justice program; Nursing faculty set up the second event in conjunction with their sold-out mental health conference and as part of Alvernia’s month-long Literary Festival, organized by Sue Guay and her team.

A few days later, a large crowd returned to the Bonaventure Room for a sparkling session of the Alvernia Writers’ Series. And the Literary Festival concluded with a one-day symposium, featuring some founding members of the John Updike Society, and several other presentations featuring Alvernia authors.

An Interfaith Peace Breakfast pro-

vided opportunity for contemplation. And the PEC was home to Gold Rush Night and the launch of the Winter Sports Season, followed by high-intensity intramural championships in male and coed flag football.

And these are just the highlights!

There were some memorable moments. Despite (or, really, because) she and her husband faced the unthinkable trauma of having their daughter raped and murdered, Vicki Schieber now devotes herself to educating people about the death penalty and to advocating for its abolition. She cited as reasons data on its racial and geographical bias, high cost and, most importantly, the fact that 138 people on death row have been exonerated.

She also quietly observed that the values of her Catholic faith make support for the death penalty unthinkable.

Vicki’s inner peace and deep spirituality were mirrored in Lee Woodruff’s witty and uplifting account of her journey with husband Bob (a famous journalist), as he suffered and recovered from a horrible bombing incident in Iraq. Her personal experience has made her an advocate for our veterans’ health care and a champion for the vocation of nursing. But most striking, in many ways, were the life lessons she (and Vicki) imparted about what it means to live a values-centered life full of compassion and generosity of spirit, absent of self-pity, and guided by love.

Listening and seeing to Dr. Tom (no last name needed!), straight from the Mothership, strumming and singing provided memories of a . . . well, different sort. From his whimsical, poetic introductory crooning to the show-stopping “Stand By Me” closing number contributed by Rockin’ Ralph Thompson and a dozen other Alvernia faculty and administrators, the Alvernia Writers’ Session was a smash success. Student poets shared some very fine work. Professor Beth DeMeo read a marvelous

sketch. Polly Mathis contributed an essay describing why she loves her work (Hint: it is ALL about our students) and left no doubt that she is an Alvernia treasure.

Amidst all this activity, Alvernia took time to honor some of the best among us. At the annual President’s Dinner, Paul Roedel, former President and CEO of Carpenter Technologies was awarded the Franciscan Award. One of the deans of community service in Reading, Paul is an exemplar of the servant-leadership Alvernians espouse and aim to model in our communities. Two womancentered organizations were honored with the Pro Urbe (“For the City”) award for their outstanding work on behalf of women in need of support—victims of domestic and/or sexual violence; young and expectant mothers without familial support. One of the two executive directors, Mary Kay Bernosky of Berks Women in Crisis, is herself an Alvernia MBA graduate. The other organization, Mary’s Shelter/ Mary’s Home, has four former residents who are Alvernia alumnae as a result of a special scholarship program established several years ago.

During Homecoming Weekend, we inducted several outstanding alums into the Athletic Hall of Fame, including the 1991 Baseball Team, the pioneers of what is now a championship-level program, led

by Coach Yogi Lutz. Alvernia staff member Suzanne Miller and Dr. Chuck Barbera, Director of Emergency Medicine at Reading Hospital, received our highest alumni awards. Beyond their professional work, both were held up as models embodying the Franciscan values of humility, collegiality, and service.

It was a good week, don’t you agree? On to the next one!

Peace and All Good, Tom Flynn

CALLING ALL WRITERS The Alvernian is now a CLUB, and WE NEED YOU!

Write for any section.

Contribute as many articles as you want.

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Contribute editorials - speak your mind!

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Contact Dr. Kramp at michael.kramp@ alvernia.edu if interested.

The Alvernian office is located in BH206.

3

Op-Ed

Followership – The Other, Necessary Side of Leadership

By Dr. Gerald Vigna Director, Center for Ethics and Leadership

“Followers are more important to leaders than leaders are to followers.”

So writes Barbara Kellerman, James McGregor Burns Lecturer in Public Leadership at the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University in her recent (2008) book, Followership.

Kellerman has been a leading researcher in leadership studies, whose books have addressed the more difficult issues in this burgeoning field.

Her motivation for this book arises from her conviction that leadership studies have centered exces-

Photo courtesy of alvernia.edu

Literary Festival Continued from page 1

ment and also the chair of the festival, proclaimed the outcome to be one of the best yet. “ Watching it grow over sively on leaders. Speaking more it sounds. Chaleff wants to build cor- these past four years and achieving technically, she wants to question porate cultures where employees feel the goal of being able to offer students the “great man” theory of leadership, safe to question policies and activities more opportunities to engage in acasince, as she writes, “Leadership that seem unsound or out of sync with demic dialogue through the written and followership are inseparable.” the organization’s mission. In our word is by the far the most rewarding

What does she mean by this? knowledge economy, where execu- part of it all,” Professor Guay said.

Kellerman examines four cases and tives depend more and more on exper- Professor Guay’s general points to the role subordinates played tise that their employees have but they focus was the enthusiasm from the in things going well or poorly. For ex- do not, argues Chaleff, courageous student’s involvement and their emample, she points to the Merck Vioxx followership is an absolute necessity. bracing of the cultural activities that I thought of the topic in con- were provided, making it extremely scandal and shows how many of the VPs knew of the problems with the nection with creating a Christian exciting and worth all the time and drug, but were not forthright with the ethic of followership. After all, dis- preparation that went into this fesCEO, who was not an expert in the cipleship is about following. It is also tival. Recognition was given to all pharmaceutical biochemistry. She about humility, which is knowing from Professor Guay as she spoke of also points to the sex abuse scandal one’s role and performing it faithfully. how she “felt humbled by the supA Christian ethic of follow- port received from the administrain the Archdiocese of Boston and to how a group of Catholics formed ership would situate itself in basic tion, faculty, staff and especially the Voice of the Faithful and effective- moral ideas such as human dignity, English, COM and CIS departments. ly pressured the archdiocese to ad- the goodness of creation (e.g., the Sigma Tau Delta played a major dress the problem as well as Ber- environment), and related ideas. It role in the development and growth nard Cardinal Law to leave his post. might contend that the leader-fol- of such a successful production

Kellerman does not think lower is a servant leader, an idea our and many thanks are to be given.” subordinates should always be philosophy professor, Dr. Bongrae With another year’s literary pointing out problems. Follow- Seok, has shown as quite compat- festival coming to a close, the planers mostly follow and should, ible with Franciscan core values. ning and brainstorming for how next As leadership gurus like year’s celebration will be able to top and most of us spend most of our time following, not leading. Kellerman and Chaleff contin- past events is already in the mak Another important figure ue to work out their theories and ing. A special thanks to all those in the field of followership is Ira help companies implement them, who attended and participated is in Chaleff, who has tried to put for- perhaps a task we can set our- order. We look forward to what is ward the idea of “courageous fol- selves to at Alvernia is the broader in store for the fifth annual festival lowership.” It is not as idealistic as question of moral followership. that will take place next year 2010!

4

Features

New Apartments Develop Growing Pains

By Jon Lozoskie Staff Writer

One prominent new attraction this year is the upscale apartments that are available to students of Alvernia University. They come with many new luxuries and features that the other resident halls do not have. Along with these new features come the standard amenities such as key swipes to unlock the doors and free washers and dryers.

Since the apartments are brand new and come with a price tag of around $7,000, they have many new amenities that are not included in the other resident halls. Such features include upscale furniture, a living room, and full kitchen utilities. The new apartment buildings are 27,000 square feet and some rooms can accommodate up to 5 people per apartment.

Upon entering the apartment building, one walks into the lobby that comes with a gas fireplace and lounge area. Also found on the main floors are study boxes that include printers. Another new addition to the apartments that make them distinct from other residences is the fact that they come with wi-fi for the whole building.

There is also a secluded parking lot behind the apartments that has 250 spaces and would in-

clude a gated entrance so only the residents of the apartments and Judge Hall can park there.

With new growth comes growing pains, and there have been many questions and concerns about the new apartments. One such question has to deal with the laundry rooms. For the second time this year

there have been washers and dryers that are currently out of service. In the second of the two apartments there are currently two washers that are out of service. There have been repairmen working on the problem and the washers should be fixed shortly. “Not

having the laundry room working is a huge inconvenience since I have to go to Judge Hall to wash my clothes,” says Bill Dale, a Sophomore resident in the second village apartment.

Another growing pain that has affected the residents of the new apartments has to deal with security issues. During move in and for the

Although the key swipes have not been fully installed it does not seem to be a big issue among residents in the apartments. Dale said, “It didn’t bother me that the key swipes weren’t installed right away because they had security guards in the lobbies.”

Along with the key swipes there have been some questions about the new security gate that is to be installed for the new parking lot. Over the past week the construction company has been installing the new parts to the gate. Everything has been put in place except for the computer components to the gate system to the new parking lot.

Joe Ciccala, Vice President of University Life and Student Learning Experiences, as well as Joseph Thomas, Director of Public Safety, have both said that the new security doors are being worked on and should be functional soon. Until that time they have stationed public safety to stay in the lobbies of the apartments. Thomas said that the installation of the gate is Photo courtesy alvernia.edu underway. Some parts to the gate weeks folhave been put up and the gate lowing there have been security guards in the lob- should be fully functional shortly.

If students have any bies checking identification cards.

This is due to the fact that some of questions or concerns dealing the key swipes to the entrances to the with the new apartments conbuildings are not fully functional yet. tact the GA or Residence Life.

Schuylkill Center to Move to New Location

By Pat Watson Staff Writer

Alvernia is continuing to expand, and looking to help the local economy, by moving the Schuylkill Center to a new location at the Cressona Mall. This new location offers more space, technology, and opportunities. With the state of the economy and more adults looking to further their education, Alvernia is taking on the challenge to expand and help a different age group and the local economy.

Alvernia University’s Schuylkill Center opened in 1955, in Pottsville, where it shared a space with the McCann School of Business and Technology. Currently, it

services roughly 200 graduate and undergraduate students each year.

This center is moving to the new location at Cressona Mall right off Route 61 South in Pottsville. The new 10,400 square-foot location will have eight classrooms, two of which will be SMART classrooms, three offices, student/faculty lounge areas, two lab-top computer labs and teleconferencing technology to provide students with cutting-edge technology. With this move, Alvernia will be able to reach a larger audience with its values-based education.

“The move to our new location in the Cressona Mall is reflective of Alvernia’s commitment to provide a quality academic experi-

ence for all students. We were offering classes in two locations in Pottsville. We felt we could provide a better experience for all of our Schuylkill students if we could bring them together under one roof. Our new center is located in the “heart” of Schuylkill County with great accessibility. We look forward to establishing a greater connection between the main campus and the Schuylkill Center, helping to reaffirm that we’re all members of the Alvernia University family” said Dr. Mary Sacavage, Director of the Schuylkill Center.

Due to the current state of the economy, more and more adult learners are looking to further their education through both graduate and undergraduate degree programs. The Schuylkill Center services these needs by offering flexible, evening hours and classes that suit the lifestyles and hours of individuals in the local area.

With the move, the new center will fill the growing need for educational opportunities and help to support the local economy by Photo courtesy Kathleen Haffey filling a mall space

that was left vacant in need of an occupant. The move will probably not have a huge effect on the main campus due to the fact that most students on campus are undergraduate students, therefore most of the classes for undergraduate are held here. But is not about the main campus, it is about the name Alvernia and the image of the University. This new move will benefit the university greatly. The move represents new growth and expansion for the University and a chance to spread the mission of Alvernia. It puts a positive image on the school to see the University doing this move with the economic atmosphere. It shows that Alvernia is more dedicated to the students than anything else.

The Grand Opening celebration is scheduled for Thursday November 12th, 2009. There will also be an open house for the center on November 12th from 4-8 p.m. This move is a big step for the school and the community, and the University should be thanked for facilitating the local economy and promoting the local individuals who have the desire to further their education.

Visit http://www.alvernia.edu/newschuylkill/index.html for more information about the Schulkill Center’s new location.

Features

5

Pete the Barber Keeps Alvernia Students Looking Good

By Danii Cortes Staff Wrtier

He is known as “Pete the Barber,” and he is located in the old mail room of Francis Hall.

Peter Marmarou has been cutting hair for 15 years; in other words, he has his share of experience. The first thing you see when you walk into the barbershop is a tall jolly barber with a great sense of humor.

Pete also manages to maintain another establishment, Sam’s Goose House, which is located on 10th and Exoder. Pete cuts hair at Alvernia University on Wednesdays until 4pm. He is also presently looking for a stylist for women’s hair.

The idea of having an on-campus barber shop was first introduced

by Doug Smith, the Vice President of Finance, who is a regular customer of Pete’s. Smith came up with the great idea of having a barber on campus, and believed it would be more convenient for students without transportation to the nearest barbershop. It seemed like a very convenient way for students to get a haircut at a reasonable price.

Many students have asked how to schedule appointments. Pete can usually work with walk-ins. He styles men’s and women’s hair but prefers

cutting men’s hair. It is best if women call ahead to set up an appointment.

Pete said “[Students] can schedule an appointment but most of my customers are walk-ins. Usually the ones I want to schedule first are the women’s haircuts.” He then went on to say, “I think it’s a great idea; it gives the students a chance to get their hair cut on-campus instead of trying to find somewhere else.

Other schools have barbers. It’s really convenient.” He then went on to list other schools such as La Salle, Drexel, and Penn State that have an on-campus barber/salon. All of these campuses also seem to understand how ideal and easy it is for students to go to a barbershop on campus.

Lisa Bailey said, “I think it is very convenient to have on campus and is a great idea. I would like to know if he can style women’s hair just as well as men’s. I look forward to trying this new hair stylist.” Another student, Pete C., said, “He is obviously a good barber if I keep coming back.”

Smith and Pete took into consideration how truly financially tied down a college student really is, and they agreed on a reasonable price of $10 a haircut for male students and $14 for faculty. Prices for women’s

haricuts vary. As Vice President of Finance, Doug Smith knows a thing or two about students and their financial stability. This actually helps students save money and not burn a hole through their wallets while still looking good.

Pete is content with where he is for now, but he hopes to find a more visible location, making it easier for students to locate him. Pete said, “Students have been bringing this up…

why in Francis Hall?!” He is looking to be relocated after finding a women’s hairstylist. He is interested in a location where all can find him easily.

This will help the business grow and maybe help students let others know about the great barber oncampus. All of the new and improved amenities on campus can only help make Alvernia University grow.

anti-Chinese sentiment. Lee’s poetry reflects the sorrow of exile and loss and the joy of family and love.

Azar Nafisi is best known for her national bestseller, Reading Lolita in Tehran: A Memoir in Books, which has spent over 117 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list. Nafisi is a Visiting Professor and Director of Cultural Conversations at the Foreign Policy Institute of Johns Hopkins University. She teaches courses on the relation between culture and politics as well as aesthetics and literature.

Students can also speak at the convention by submitting their own papers and creative work. Members may submit up to two works in separate categories. The categories are critical essay, creative nonfiction, poetry, fiction, drama/screenplay, or common reader (works concerning Abani’s Song for Night). Acceptance into the convention program is based on the merit of the work.

Other than academic pursuits, there are many fun things to do at the convention. These include a T-shirt design contest, a dramatic skit structions available at www.EnglishConvention.org contest, and a bad poetry contest where contestants come up with the worst poetry posFeatured Speakers Chris Abani sible and present it for judging.

Judith Ortiz Cofer

There are also two Li-young Lee mixers: a Red and Black Gala Azar Nafisi From left to right: Chris Abani, Judith Ortiz Cofer, Li-Young Lee, and Azar Nafisi Celebration and an awards Photo courtesy english.org ceremony. Students will also

be given opportunities to tour St. Louis and soak up some of the culture of the city. The Hyatt Regency St. Louis Waterfront Hotel (where the convention will be held) is directly adjacent to the Gateway Arch. It is also close to the Gateway Arch riverboats as well as many museums.

Sigma Tau Delta is more than an honor society, it is a place for lovers of English and literature to gather and share their passion in an environment that fosters growth and acceptance.

More information about Sigma Tau Delta can be found at www. english.org or by contacting either Carrie Fitzpatrick at carrie.fitzpatrick@alvernia.edu, Beth DeMeo at beth.demeo@alvernia.edu or Sigma Tau President Scott Rodgers at kristopher.rodgers@alvernia.edu.

Song for Night, which is this year’s Common Reader at the convention.

He is considered one of the best emergent African writers in half a century and is currently a professor at the University of California, Riverside.

Judith Ortiz Cofer was born in Puerto Rico and raised in Patterson, New Jersey. Her writing reflects the experience of being Puerto Rican and living, writing, and teaching in the United States. She The convention theme for 2010. has authored eleven books of rick, this year’sPhoto courtesy english.org various genres and is a professor of English and Creative convention chair, “[The International Convention] Writing at the University of Georgia.

Li-Young Lee has authored brings together graduate and under- 010 International Convention four critically acclaimed books of graduate students and faculty in a celebration of writing in all its forms.” poetry. His great-grandfather was erfront, St. Louis, MO

The theme for this year’s China’s first republican President convention is “Storytellers,” and and his father was a physician to each of the www.EnglishConvention.org four speakers will have Chairman Mao. After the People’s a story to tell. This year’s speakers Republic of China was established, are Chris Abani, Judith Ortiz Cofer, his parents escaped to Indonesia Lee, and Azar Nafisi. where Lee was born. They then rs andLi-Young Panel Presentations

Chris Abani is the author of fled to the United States to escape ons due November 20, 2009 Sigma Tau Continued from page 1

l a tale at the 2010 Convention

The Gateway Arch in St. Louis.

Photo courtesy google.com

6

Sports

Playoffs are Huge, Suspenseful; Series Themselves Lack Excitement

By Scott Rodgers Sports Editor

This year’s MLB Playoffs have been, in one word, big.

Big cities, big names, big questions, big roster decisions, the list goes on and on. There have been big comebacks, big name closers imploding, big contracts being earned or lost with every pitch thrown and every swing of the bat.

But there is just something missing (besides the Cubs).

There has yet to be a truly competitive series. The first round featured three sweeps with only the Phillies dropping a game to Colorado. In the league championship round, the Yankees had the “toughest” series, losing a mere two games to the Angels.

The big stars all enjoyed the spotlight. Alex Rodriguez has emerged into, seemingly, a one man wrecking machine, akin to Barry Bonds in 2002. Vladimir Guerrero was clutch for the Angels.

Ryan Howard was record breaking.

The list goes on and on with impressive performances (tip of the hat to Cliff Lee, CC Sabathia, Andre Ethier, and Adam Wainwright). However, there have also been a lot of controversies.

Manny Ramirez sparked a national debate for being in the shower. Mariano Rivera had to field questions about possibly spitting on the ball. Chase Utley’s errors brought out the first negative remarks I have heard spoken in his direction since moving here. Umpires have blown so many calls that they have essentially forced Major League Baseball to seriously consider instant replay (which is a good thing).

This upcoming offseason impacts almost all of the playoff teams in particular. The Angels are facing the possibility of life without Vlad Guerrero, Chone Figgins, and John Lackey. The Red Sox have to figure out what to do with the middle of their order and, in particular, Jason Bay.

The biggest name available is, of course, Matt Holliday. Jon Heyman reported that the Yankees head his list of teams, with the Dodgers, Angels, and Mets rounding out his prefered relocation sites. That is bad news for Cardinal fans. But it is nice he is making it known he wants to make somewhere between a lot of money and a metric ton of it.

The biggest decisions, however, will land in the lap of the Dodgers. The McCourts are going through a bitter divorce.

Manny Ramirez had a player option that he picked up for $20 million (no one out there was going to

pay Manny that amount of money on the market), and the team has informed Randy Wolf and Orlando Hudson they will not be re-signed.

Brian Fuentes, Joe Nathan, Jonathan Papelbon, Jonathan Broxton, Huston Street, Brad Lidge and Ryan Franklin all blew at least one save in these playoffs. The only closer not to blow a save was Mariano Rivera

It is just another check in the column of closers being the most volatile position in the game.

Sure, Nathan has the excuse of bone chips in his elbow, but it did not stop him from winning the Rolaids Relief Man of the Year award.

2011 is shaping up to potentially be one of the biggest free agent years of all time. I know, I know, that is a long time away.

But take a look at the list of potential free agents: Albert Pujols, Joe Mauer, David Ortiz, Jayson Werth, Jason Kubel, Jimmy Rollins, Cliff Lee, Derek Jeter, and Josh Beckett.

And those are just from the playoff teams. I did not even get to Roy Halladay, Brandon Webb, Carlos Pena, Carl Crawford, Lance Berkman, Derrek Lee, Tim Hudson, Jose Reyes, and Matt Cain.

Sure, some of these guys will not make it to free agency. Yankee fans need not worry about Jeter going to the Mets or anything like that.

But for Philadelphia, Boston, Minnesota, and St. Louis, it will be gut-check time.

The Yankees will loom large in the plans of many of these players, particularly Mauer as they will need a replacement for Jorge Posada by then.

Since they have A-Rod and Teixeira, they are likely out of the running for Pujols. However, I am sure the Red Sox would be happy with such a “consolation prize” for losing Mauer.

This is a worst-case scenario, as I am hopeful the Twins and Cardinals lock up their best players.

Even if the Red Sox got both Mauer and Pujols, for me, as a fan, it would come with a hollow feeling. Stealing the franchise of two historic baseball towns just because, potentially, the player wanted $28 million instead of $20 million is mind-boggling.

Hopefully Philly fans are appreciating Cliff Lee’s starts this postseason. Unfortunately for them, every single shutout inning is driving his price up. And this is after his agent has gone on the record as wanting a $120 million contract.

Who knows if they could afford him, especially with Rollins and Werth able to walk. Howard and Hamels are free agents the next year, as well.

But to come back to this year, after looking into the future, I learned

to appreciate these playoffs even more. The individual games have been exciting, and it has been fascinating to see the some of the roster decisions.

Jose Molina became a household name because of this. It does not matter that the Yankees still have the best offense in baseball with Molina and his defense is considerably better than Posada’s. Despite making the World Series, Joe Giradi is still being questioned.

And it is not just him. Joe Torre was questioned for using Vincente Padilla over Clayton Kershaw, even though Padilla was their best pitcher this postseason. Charlie Manuel was questioned for pulling Pedro Martinez and how he left Brett Myers off the NLCS roster. The list goes on and on.

The light on this year’s playoffs has shown a lot of baseball’s blemishes. It showed that the Yankees and Phillies’ spending sprees did indeed work. Their general managers brought in some great pieces to add to their core group of players.

Though people may scream for a salary cap, there is no way it would pass given the current state of

things. The MLBPA would never allow their employees to get a dollar less then they are worth. Even if it means the Yankees will be paying $201 million for their team versus the Marlins’ $36 million.

Even the difference between the Yankees and the second place Mets is stark. The Mets paid $135 million to see, well, one of the most hilariously pathetic baseball seasons I think I have ever witnessed.

At any rate, I cannot sit here and fault the Yankees for paying what they do. I cannot fault the MLB for allowing them to do it, either. It is just something that has to be dealt with.

However, it does not make these playoffs any less exciting.

Since my team got knocked out in the first round I have had almost as much fun rooting against the Yankees.

So bring on next year, and the next class of high-priced free agents.

Photo courtesy google.com

7

Sports

Women’s Basketball Team Looks to Build on Last Year’s Strong Finish

By James Hein Staff Writer

Alvernia’s women’s basketball team was impressive last season with a record of 18-10, 11-5 in conference play, and a pair of wins over Top 25 teams.

The women started off slow by going 4-8 in their first 12 games of the season. However, finished the year strong, going 13-2 and clinching a spot in the postseason. After earning the three seed in the conference playoffs, the Crusaders lost to the second seeded Manhattanville Valiants in the conference semi-finals.

The Crusaders were able to secure a bid into the ECAC tournament, after handily beating Neumann in the first round; they were once again knocked out in the semi-finals, this time by Juniata College. Despite the disappointing losses in the semifinals, the Crusaders were able to put together a very impressive season.

The Crusader’s were led by

Alex Velazquez, who was named to the D3hoops.com All-Region Second team. Velazquez was second on the team averaging 16.8 points per game and led the team in rebounding average at 9.2 boards a game. Another notable player was freshman Allison Toczylowski, who was impressive in her first season as a Crusader.

Allison was able to grab 236 rebounds, achieve a team high 23 blocks, and was the team’s third leading scorer behind Kelli McIntyre and Velazquez.

The women Crusaders are looking to expand upon last year’s season and make another push for the playoffs.

They will be led by the duo of Velazquez and Tocylowski, as well as the senior leadership of Joanna Graber and they will benefit from the return of McIntyre in the second semester.

Alvernia will have a young team with only one senior on the projected roster, but are in good hands thanks to head coach

Kevin Calabria, who is entering his 21st season as head coach.

“We have virtually everyone returning this season,” Coach Calabria said. “We have good kids, hardworking kids and a great combination of players . . .we have great chemistry.”

This year the Crusaders look to make a mark in the Commonwealth division of the MAC and are

confident that they will

“I feel that with the experience of the returning players combined with what the new players can bring . . . we will be competitive and do well in the conference,” Joanna Graber said.

The biggest challenges for the Crusaders will be the battles with Messiah College, who posted an 11-1 in the conference last season. They will also battle with Lebanon Valley and hometown rival Albright.

Also, the Crusaders get the job done on and off the court The team tallied an average GPA of 3.2 and also helped more than 30 kids from Reading Tennis in an event to inspire the children to want to go to college.

The Crusaders’ season tips off on November 20 at the Muhlenberg Invitational Tournament.

The Photo courtesy alvernia.edu first home game is November 24 at 6 p.m. so be sure to be successful. get out and cheer on the Crusaders.

8

Sports

First Goals Made on Men’s Basketball New Turf Field Looks to Improve

By Devon Coleman Staff Writer

Being the first to do something is often an extraordinary achievement. Scoring first in an athletic competition is big. Scoring the first goal of the season is something that every athlete would love to do.

But scoring the first goals on a new field means something special. That’s just what three fall athletes did to open their seasons.

The men’s soccer team opened their season on Sept. 1 against PSU-Berks. The team won 3-1 over a tough Nittany Lions club. The first goal was scored by freshman Brice Stine who buried a pass from Junior Morgan Davidheiser. This marked not only the first goal for the team but the first goal ever on the new turf field.

The women’s soccer team had their first game just three days later during the Crusader Cup tournament held at Alvernia. In an exciting overtime game, sophomore Amy Mesce scored both goals in a 2-1 OT game.

Mesce’s first goal was a header late in the first half off junior Felicia Sippel’s free kick that went towards the far post. In overtime Mesce volleyed

home a pass from Junior Erin Stone.

“It’s really cool to be the first to score on the new field. ...I was just trying to help my team get the win,” Mesce said. “...Our whole team deserves credit, without them I would not have been able to do it.”

The field hockey team had their home opener on Sept. 9 against Delaware Valley College.

The team came out on fire putting together a convincing 5-2 win.

Sophomore Samantha Landis scored the first goal for the team on the new field.

“All I was thinking about was winning and just as long as someone scores we win,” Landis said. “I just happened to be the first one to score that night, and I would not have been able to score without the help of my teammates.”

Landis had two goals in the win with the first one coming in the third minute that was unassisted, and the second of the day in the 30th minute assisted by Lauren Guido and Jaclyn Guignet.

“Recognition should go to the whole team for our big win on our new field,” Landis also said.

By James Hein Staff Writer

Last season the Crusaders had some struggles, going 10-15 (6-10 in conference) and failed to make the playoffs for the first time in 20 years.

This year, the Crusaders are looking to turn it around and get back in the playoffs after the frustrations of last year.

“By past performance, the Commonwealth has been a very good league,” head coach Mike Miller said. “It will be a very competitive race for the playoffs.”

The Crusaders will be a very young team that has only four returning players: two seniors and two sophomores. Coach Miller is excited about the new recruits this year.

“I brought in a bunch of good freshman,” Miller said. Along with the freshmen, Miller brought in two transfers, Tadd Gillis and Seth Cornell. He feels both can come in and play well for the Crusaders.

Among the returning players is Nick Rivera, a senior, who brought down a team high 149 rebounds, led the team with 26 blocks, and was second

on the team in points per game, averaging 10.2 He comes into the fall 2009 season as the team MVP and captain.

Charlie Hughes, the other returning senior, saw time in every game last season. He averaged 7.9 points per game and was named to the 200809 MASCAC Sportsmanship Team.

“I think this year we are ready to turn some heads,” Rivera said “Our team chemistry is a lot better this year, we played a lot this summer as a team so we got real close.”

This year’s team should be very competitive both in practice and in games. This competition helps keep them on their toes.

“There will be competition in practice to determine who plays,” Miller said.

The Crusaders open up the season against Penn State Berks on November 16, and then they will host the 11th Annual Tom Masano/Sheraton Reading Tip-Off Tournament. This year’s schedule will be a tough grind.

Twelve of their final thirteen games are against conference opponents.

Intramurals are a Chance to Have Some Friendly Fun

By James Hein Staff Writer

As the numbers continue to increase at Alvernia, so does the turnout for intramurals. Alvernia’s Intramural Athletic Board has grown since last year after adding eight new members.

Due to the number of seniors on the board it was necessary for the IAB to vote in new members in order to get some more youth into the club and to try to generate some new ideas.

“I wanted to be a part of a group and the IAB interested me because I enjoy sports and intramurals,” Melina Whalen, a new sophomore member of the board, said.

The IAB focuses on bringing athletic recreation to those who are looking for some friendly competition.

The goal of the IAB is to give students an opportunity to meet new people and get some exercise at the same time.

In the past few years, the IAB has developed new ideas for sports.

One of the new sports that the IAB has been able to add is inner tube water polo. This is a co-ed event that takes place at the Body Zone.

Water polo provides a great opportunity for students to get into a pool in the middle of the fall season. This fall, inner tube water polo is one night and is scheduled to be-

gin on Thursday, November 12.

Currently, the IAB is near the end of the flag football season.

It is undoubtedly the most popular fall sport that intramurals has to offer.

The number of teams in both the coed and men’s league has doubled since last year. The involvement in flag football may be credited to the new turf field located on campus, where as in past years flag football was held at Governor Mifflin’s practice football field.

An advantage of having the 120 yard turf field is the ability to play three games at one time.

Along with the increase in teams comes the increase in competition.

“There is a great balance between competition and fun, and the fact that we get to play on the turf field makes flag football more enjoyable,” junior Jeremy Hausdorf said.

The battle for a playoff spot is going to come down to the wire with the Sons of Anarchy locking up

the number one seed. Teams such as Step Brothers and High School Heroes round out the top three seeds while Better then Llyod and The Mitchell Report are on the bubble.

Playoff positioning is bound to change when teams vying for a playoff spot meet in late season battles. The playoffs are set to begin on October 21.

Flag football is not the only sport that will take place in the fall, keep your eyes open for 3-on-3 basketball which begins early in November.

This allows those that are not on the basketball teams to have an opportunity on the court and play pick-up games.

Also, on study day, the IAB offers a great chance to relax and have some fun with friends with its semi-annual ping pong tournament in the PEC. It is another type of recreational activity that the IAB offers to students that is not usually an everyday activity.

Not only does the IAB sponsor on campus events, but there

are trips off campus as well. The IAB sponsors both a ski trip and a rafting trip, which is offered to students at a discounted price and is a great way to get away from campus and relax for a few hours.

“Intramurals is successful because it allows students to have fun with their friends and be competitive at the same time,” Bridget Burger, senior president of the IAB said. “Everyone knows each other which makes the games and events that much more successful,”

More information about Intramurals can be found on the Alvernia Athletics website, and do not forget to keep your eyes open for sport sign ups. And start getting your teams ready for the upcoming seasons.

Entertainment

9

“The Rolling Exhibition” Comes to Alvernia

By Angela Miller Entertainment Editor

There are a lot of things we take for granted every day. We breathe, we walk, we talk, we can see and hear, taste and smell, but do we ever take the time to stop and truly realize how blessed we really are?

Most days we probably do not even realize what we are doing. Instead we go through life blind to what we have.

On November 19, Kevin Connolly, author of the book Double Take, will be coming to Alvernia to share his experience and talk about his work. Connolly was born without legs, but this did not stop him from living a normal life. He went to bars, flirted with girls, and survived through school. He did not let his handicap stop him from doing the travelling he wanted to do. At the age of twenty-four Kevin has accomplished more than most average college students. “I’m twenty-four years old,” said Connolly, “My book was finished before my senior year of college. I feel it is important to be able to directly talk to people my age.”

Even without legs, Connolly lived a typical childhood. It was not easy for him though. When you read about his childhood in his book you

can get a sense of how hard it really was for him.

“It was hard to write t h e book, but I Photo courtesy Sarah Burningham think it wouldn’t have been so powerful or moving without my childhood.

Expressing feelings like that kind of takes away from masculinity because it is hard for men to express themselves like that,” said Connolly. Imagine what it must feel like to have yourself completely exposed in writing for everyone to see and read. Could any of us have that kind of courage?

Connolly’s family was not rich, but he grew up in a comfortable middle class homr. His project was funded by the prize money he won in the 2006 winter X- Games. Connolly is an avid skier and it is something he enjoys even without legs.

Connolly has travelled the world on a

skateboard, seeing different countries.

“‘The Rolling Exhibition’ is a photo project. It was a prompt to travel the world. I want to get the message out of how to tell stories about other people. It wasn’t easy, in fact it was very stressful,” says Connolly. People who see Kevin immediately feel bad for him. They think that something horrible has happened to him, “I had a woman in Bolivia give me money because she felt sorry for me. I even had a guy in Montana ask me if I still wear my dog tags from Iraq.” In his

money because he’s handicapped.

Kevin does not think of himself as a handicapped person. He tries to get by just like the rest of us. His story is an inspiring piece of work and it is something everyone should read.

“The Rolling Exhibition” is a photo project Kevin Connolly put together from his trip around the world. The project consists of photos that Kevin took while people stared at him to catch their reaction. The photos were shot at skateboard level to capture first reactions of people as they noticed Kevin.

Not only is he a great skier, but Kevin is a gifted photographer.

His photos show a view that nobody has ever seen before, and they have captured the attention of many people. Kevin lives with people’s stares every day and through “The Rolling Exhibition” project he is able to make people see his view of those stares.

Many people continue to be inspired by his work. People from all over have come to see his art.

When he comes to Alvernia University in November take the time to Photo courtesy Sarah Burningham go hear him talk. His story will no book, Kevin expresses his conflicted doubt inspire you. Connolly is an emotions when people give him alms. overall good guy with a lot to teach.

He does not want people to give him us the way we look at other people.

Ritz Theater Gives Movie Goers Different Crop of Films to Watch

The theaters themselves are small are across the room. The service is However you will quickly find out

By Jessica Lopez in size. There are not many seats, always fast, friendly and courteous. that some deserve such recognition.

Contributing Writer Currently playing at the Ritz however on any given night you just The Ritz Five is no differ-

The Ritz theaters of Philamay be the only person in the the- ent. Located on Walnut St. in Olde at the Bourse is the French film Paris. delphia are just an hour and a half ater. The seats are big and comfy and City Philadelphia, the Ritz Five Complete with subtitles, this movie from Alvernia University. Unlike there isn’t a bad one in the house. got its name for the five theaters it is described as “a valentine to the the standard movie theaters you and houses. The building is obviously city of lights,” on the movie’s webI attend, these theaters show small in size but the theaters them- site. Some of France’s biggest stars independent films. The Ritz theselves are still comfortable. It was in cinema come together to present a aters are part of a theater chain here that M. Night Shyamalan’s de- movie to showcase the city of love. owned by Landmark Theaters. but feature film, Praying With Anger A heart transplant reunites a broLandmark Theaters are known premiered. It showcases the friendly ken family and shows a man what for their unique theaters and old staff and old fashioned concession really matters in his life. The New fashioned concession stands. stand like the other Ritz Theaters. York Times states that this movie The Ritz theaters of Philadelphia

The movies showing are al- is, “Purely entertaining. Poignant. are definitely a pleasant change ways changing as new titles are re- Above all, Paris, in which the monufrom your regular main stream leased. Movies such as Juno and ments are spread out before you like movie theaters.

Little Miss Sunshine both started out a sumptuous outdoor banquet, evokes

The Ritz at the Bourse as independent films that eventu- the city as a robust social organism.” is located right next to the hisOutside of the Ritz Theater in Philadelphia.

Some other movies currently ally made it to the big screen. At toric Bourse building in IndePhoto courtesy google.com showing at the Ritz theaters include theaters such as the Ritz, you are pendence Mall. The theater itself is T h e nestled into a parking garage build- Ritz East has a more elegant façade able to view movies that haven’t been Bright Star, Coco Before Chanel, ing. Posters from currently-running than the Ritz at the Bourse. Opened discovered yet. And then you have Capitalism: A Love Story, and Paris. movies line the outside of the build- in 1996 the theater is still fulfilling the bragging rights to say you saw Visit www.landmarktheaters.com to find a schedule for ing. You might be surprised to find its mission to provide independent the movies playthat many times the ticket cashier films to Philadelphia. The Ritz East ing in the month dons an old-fashioned movie the- is located on South Second Street beof November. The ater employee uniform. After receiv- tween Chestnut and Walnut Street. theaters also host ing your ticket, an escalator leads The building itself is very much occasional midyou to the concession stand and the- like the Ritz at the Bourse, as both night showings aters. This concession stand is unlike have smaller theaters. This theater, Photo courtesy google.com of classic movies your standard stand. Fresh popcorn however, does not have an escala- them first when such as Beetleis always popping, but there is also tor. After buying a ticket you walk they make it to the big screen. Grantand The Goonies. old fashioned soda pop and candy. into the building and the theaters ed, not all independent films go so far. juice

10

Entertainment

The Death Trend is Still Rampant

By Angela Miller Entertainment Editor

The death trend is still in high gear. No matter where you turn death is staring you in the face. Hollywood seems to be corrupting our minds, trying to tell us our time is coming. Movies coming out this winter are not about cheery holidays, but rather the end of Earth, making deals with the devil, and a little girl giving her version of heaven after she is brutally killed by her father’s friend.

Avatar comes out on December eighteenth. The movie takes place on a fictional moon called Pandora. The main character is wounded in a war going on down on the Earth, and the injury he received has paralyzed him from the waist down. He is nominated for the Avatar program which will grant him the ability to walk, and he is sent to Pandora. He meets the fictional race called the Navi. The Navi stand three meters tall, have sparkling blue skin, and are formidable warriors. Jake Sully, the protagonist, finds himself immersed

in their culture and in a battle which is worth seeing his final performace. will determine the fate of the world.

The Lovely Bones is the story

The Imaginarium of Doctor of a young girl, named Susie Salmon, Parnassus is the story of a man who who is killed by her neighbor after was granted immortality by the devil. taking a short cut home from school.

He has a travelling show where mem- After her murder Susie ends up in bers of the audience get an opportu- heaven, and the rest of the movie nity to choose between light and joy takes place in her version of heaven. or darkness and gloom. He has a gift She befriends a girl named Holly who to guide the imaginations of his au- is another murdered girl. All Susie dience. When he meets his wants is to be back true love, Parnassus asks the with the people she devil for youth instead of imloves most, but she mortality, but he must give must watch them up his firstborn to Mr. Nick from afar.

She at the age of sixteen. When watches her family his daughter approaches fall apart, and looks the age of sixteen, Parnason as her father sus finds himself desperis consumed with ate to protect his daughter. the obsession of The bet is renegotiated and catching his daughthe first man to seduce five ter’s murdersouls will win Valentina. Photo courtesy google.com er. Susie must Parnassus finds himself face a choice: to hold onto her in a race against time, and surrender- own need for vengeance or begin ing his daughter’s hand in marriage to to see the world without her in it. the man who helps him win the bet.

The new Fall television schedThe Imaginarium of Doctor Parnas- ule brought a new season of House. sus is the last movie Heath Ledger It began with House being admitted completed before his tragic death. It into a mental institution where he

resides with mentally challenged people. Of course, House won’t go willingly and starts devising his

Photo courtesy google.com own plans to get out. Once he realizes his plans aren’t working he gives in and lets the doctor’s help him. The season focuses on House fully overcoming his addiction and dealing with his own misery. Will House still be House in the end or will he be a different House without his addiction to Vicodin? The season started out with excellent episodes, and the pattern will no doubt continue as the season progresses.

Will Hollywood ever move pass the death trend or will this be the trend for a long time to come? It is time Hollywood moved onto something different instead of giving its audience a morbid outlook on life.

Alegria Mesmerizes Audience Members

By Jessica Heller Staff Writer

Tuesday, October 20, 2009, the Reading Sovereign Center played host to the enigmatic Cirque Du Soleil Alegria. The intense spectacle was a continuous breath taker with a sophisticated blend of euphoric lights, rhythmic sounds, vibrant costumes and overwhelming talent.

Since 1994 Alegria, Spanish for “jubilation,” has been captivating audiences with its tale of a changing world and struggle for power.

Characters such as Fleur and the Old Birds represent the old world order, the aristocracy that used to hold every ounce of power. Their elaborate costumes covered in velvet and pearls, gold trim and lace, mask the falling reign they attempt to preserve. A changing world, however, leaves a void in power soon to be filled by the new generation of youth.

The Bronx and Nymphs collectively bring to life the energy and strength needed to take control of the future.

The shuffles and muffled chatter of anxious patrons taking their seats fades into a dark alluring stage as a wretched jester named Fleur makes his way to open the act. Followed by a marching unit, Fleur and the band interact with audience in an uplifting entrance to an amazing night. A magical display by trapeze artist Stephanie Gasparoli enchanted the audience with quick flowing maneuvers that seemed effortless.

The evening continued with an acrobatic display on the power track,

a mix of synchronized gymnastics and tumbling on a trampoline hidden within the stage floor. Denys Tolstov was a delight displaying tremendous strength balancing, twisting and turning on top of canes of various heights.

The talent didn’t end there; fire and

medic routines including a cowardly horse show, a paper airplane competition and the intense ending to the act, a confetti storm that enveloped the entire audience in a blanket of “snow.”

The second act, although shorter in time, was grander in tal-

gymnastics rings, but he worked with over-sized elastic bands. Continuing with the gymnastics aspect, the artists showcased a tremendous amount of agility, skill and strength in the Russian bars act. As if balancing on a sturdy beam wasn’t challenging enough, these acrobats flew through the air from flexible bar to bar as catchers ensure they landed on the two inch beams balanced on their shoulders.

A composed opposition in action was the graceful flexibility of the contortionists. Weaving their bodies in and out of each other they sculpted new forms of imagination for the body.

The final act of the night was performed by a group of unbelievably talented men. Suspended more than forty feet above the stage, these flyers soared from the beams to a cradlelike swing and back again as if they themselves had wings. With only a net below as any form of safety, the fierce bravery of these gentlemen is hidden behind the calm charisma of agility and trapeze style acrobatics.

There is no doubt that the challenges in both skill and artistic imagination culminated in this night that left an impression upon every member of the awe-stricken audience. Every intricate detail of this spectacular performance displayed Photo courtesy google.com tribal drums combined as Micah Nathe amount of work and energy that ruo and Maui Sumeo put on a show ent and excitement. The Flying Man, backs the Cirque Du Soleil orgaand play with fire ending in half the Aleksandr Dobrynin, brought the au- nization. The talented individuals stage flaming along with their ener- dience back to the world of gravity- and the outstanding designers were getic dance. Throughout this extrav- defying excitement and out-of-this- well deserving of the standing ovaaganza three representative clowns world movement. His high flying act tion delivered to them on the openbattle the times and each other in co- was as artistic as a performance on ing night at the Sovereign Center.

11

Entertainment

By Lisa James, Variety Editor Aquarius (January 20-February 18)

Libra (September 22-October 22)

Patience and consideration are qualities that are necessary to practice in the upcoming days. Avoid making rash decisions because they could very well end up disappointing you in the long run. Sit back and relax, the facts will come in on their own.

There is a lot of commotion existing within your family and it could end up being stressful if the issue is ongoing. Try to hold your ground, but have an open discussion with everyone so that miscommunication does not prolong the situation any further.

Pisces (February 19- March 20)

Aries (March 21- April 19)

Romance is not dead! Those who want to believe it is nonexistent, ignore them. Approach situations with an attitude that is beneficial to both you and your partner. Learn the rules of respect and practice them; everything will flow naturally once those means are met.

You MUST be able to pick apart the best and worst parts of a situation, and apply the successes of the past while learning from the mistakes. A bold move is going to be required in upcoming events so keep a level head and go with what suits you best.

Sagittarius (November 22- December 21) Right now might be a time to sacrifice personal pleasure for professional achievement. Do not burn bridges in close relationships, because you will need allies in something important dealing with your career.

Cancer (June 21- July 22)

You are very serious and dedicated to everything going on in your life right now. However second-guessing yourself is something you practice routinely. As long as your efforts are genuine and your thoughts are level headed/reasonable, then you needn’t worry.

Scorpio (October 23- November 21)

Capricorn (December 22-January 19)

You have a goal that can only be achieved with the proper approach and choosing reliable people to help with the cause.

You may have to coerce others in the beginning in order to get the ball rolling. Be certain to manage you time wisely.

It seems as though you need to be the responsible one in the group. Keep people in line, but don’t take it as far as to act as a parental figure; this could result in offense being taken. Follow the rules, but remember to be flexible with them.

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

Gemini (May 21- June 20)

You are known for saying things people don’t want to hear.

What people do not realize is it’s probably not so much an issue of telling the truth, but more so of getting something off your chest. Mother knows best; if you don’t have anything nice to say don’t say it at all.

You are beginning to have issues over taking on too much responsibility. You might see that more work takes away from personal time. You are challenged to take opportunities while still keeping relationships satisfied.

Virgo (August 23-September 22)

Leo (July 23-August 22)

You are focused on accomplishing and maintaining financial stability. Recognize those who are in your life for genuine reasons and those who only see you as someone to push aside in order to achieve success. A breakthrough is in the near future.

It’s important to learn as much as you can instead of acting on instinct. This is a good time to reflect, to study, to practice, to rehearse, and even to be criticized constructively. Don’t take on anything out of your league just yet; you need preparation first.

Photos courtesy google.com

Just Asking...With all the new changes Alvernia I would have to say the new parking lot has been my favorite new addition to the campus!

Last year it was getting a bit ridiculous trying to find a spot that wasn’t a mile away, so this was the perfect addition!

(Tammie Kennedy, Senior, Nurising)

has implemented this school year, what do you enjoy the most?

I feel the changes that have been happening on campus are a great thing. My favorite change is the new apartment buildings where I am living this year. Being able to cook for myself and living in an an apartment style room is helping me get ready for when I graduate.

(Justine Fronhesier, Senior, Accounting)

I feel that the changes are very nice, one thing I would like to see change is having someplace to eat before 11 a.m. on the weekends. I think our cafe should be open from 7 a.m. - 7:30 a.m., Monday through Friday to allow students a more flexible time to eat. I really enjoy the new turf field.

(Ashley Knight, Senior, Elementary Education) My favorite new addition is the track. It gives me somewhere to run outside of the gym.

(Bree Mahoney, Senior, English, Education, minor in Psychology)

By Vanessa Policare, Staff Writer

Stay on course this winter Classes begin Dec. 14

Get ahead this winter break with a large selection of undergraduate and graduate courses from Alvernia University. Courses are taught in an innovative accelerated term and are offered in three convenient formats: on-line, classroom, and blended (on-line and classroom).

Classes are designed to help students get ahead at a faster pace and move one step closer to graduation.

ONLINE COURSES (Dec. 14 - Jan. 15) Undergraduate BIO 109-W1: Human Biology HIS 112-W1: Study of American History PHI 105-W1: Introduction to Philosophy PSY 101-W1: Introduction to Psychology THE 105-W1 Introduction to Theology

Graduate MBA 520-W1: Marketing Services MBA 670-W1: Corporate Communications MED 508-W1: Advanced Educational Psychology

BLENDED COURSES (Dec. 14 - Jan. 15) Undergraduate COM 340-W1: Advertising Workshop ENG 103-W1: Intro to Poetry PED 304-W1: Wellness for Life

Graduate COR 510-W1: Moral Leadership COR 600-W1: Prof. & Organizational Leadership MED 505-W1: Intro to Special Needs Students MED 610-W1: School Law and Social Advocacy

CLASSROOM COURSES (Jan. 4 - Jan. 15) Undergraduate BUS 248-W1: Macroeconomics CIS 190-W1: MS Word Bootcamp CIS 190-W2: MS Excel Bootcamp COM 290-W1: Books to Film

MAT 208-W1: Intro to Statistics MUS 220-W1: Music & Health PSY 290-W1: Positive Psychology

Register Today!

Visit our website and register at www.alvernia.edu/winter For more information, please call us at 610-796-8228 or email: gradandce@alvernia.edu

A n E d u c a t i o n i n t h e F r a n c i s c a n Tr a d i t i o n