Macon State College’s Award-Winning Student Newspaper Volume 43, Issue 7
NEWS
studentweb.maconstate.edu/maconstatement
Nov. 30, 2011
Players perform award-winning play
Lights! Camera! Action! pg.3
OPINIONS
Get into the holiday spirit pg. 5
FEATURES
Easy holiday recipes pg. 11
SPORTS
New Recreation and Wellness building? pg.14 p .1 pg
See MSC-TV for more stories!
Photo courtesy of Glen Stone Macon State ’s Company of Players performed “Anton in Show Business ” by Jane Martin. The play was shown Nov. 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, and 17 in the Arts Complex Theater in the Humanities and Social Sciences building. Pictured is the cast: (from left to right) Madysen Kovac, Faatima Vasser, Vashae ’ House, Amanda Burkhalter, Alexis Walker, Erika Lloyd, Julie Allen, Dwana Johnson, and Maggie Rogers. Not pictured is Director Jason Levitt, Assistant Director ShirleyAnn Brownlee, Stage Manager/Costumer Dara Foy, Set Construction: Gary Faulkner, and Set Crew Matthew Royal, Lauren Williams, and Dell Royal.
What’s happening around campus and community Wednesday, Nov. 30
Thursday, Dec. 1
Friday, Dec. 2
Saturday, Dec. 3
Sunday, Dec. 4
NMAC 4450: Public Screening of nal Student Videos 3 p.m. – 5 p.m. Arts Complex Theater
Early Registration Ends!
Holiday Movie Screening 7 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. WRC - Academic Services Building Auditorium
Pancakes and Santa! 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. Humanities/SS - Lobby
Holiday Movie Screening 9 p.m. – 11:30 p.m. Macon Campus Math (LS) - Auditorium
Psychology Club Meeting 3 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. SLC Rm 109
View complete information about campus events by clicking on the “Campus Calendar ” link at studentweb.maconstate.edu/maconstatement.
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NEWS
Stressed? Staff tips for de-stressing nals With nals fast approaching, there is a notable increase in the stress level of the average college student. While the obvious preparation tip would be ‘study, ’ there are also some ways to relieve stress and relax before an exam. “On the day of your nal, drink lots of water and eat carb-rich foods. Drinking peppermint tea will help to get rid of any stress or fatigue induced headaches. ” Alexis Meeks Copy Editor “Chewing gum will help you stay awake the day of nals if you pulled an all-nighter study session. ” Meaghan Smith Photo and Layout Editor “I nd a few minutes before the exam to meditate/pray. It helps to clear the mind and relieve stress so that memory isn ’t effected by fear of the exam. ” Sarah Frye-Mitchell Editor-in-Chief “When preparing for nals, make sure you eat breakfast and also pray; a test is just a test, not a mountain. ” Richard Groves Staff Writer
Nov. 30, 2011
Nov. 30 , 2011
NEWS
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Students to publically present their films BY SARAH FRYE-MITCHELL | EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
r. Patrick Brennen ’s Principles of Production class is presenting their student lms in the Fall Digital Video Festival on Wednesday, Nov. 30 and Monday, Dec. 5 from 3:30 p.m. – 4:45 p.m. Videos will run between 5-10 minutes. Some of student lms that will be presented will include “Double Vision ” by Amiya Gaston, “Stepping on the Scale ” by Sarah Johnson, “The Prefect Woman ” by Katie LaConte, “It Takes Two ” by Katy Levertt, “Heroes and Villains ” by Sade Olajide, and “Don ’t Throw Me Away ” by Norma Jean Perkins. “My movie is about Heroes, ” said Olajide. “My experience with this project was I taped a college freshman class and the professor ’s sister, taped her kindergarten class. Each answered what a hero means to them. I did enjoy listening to the kindergartener ’s responses they are so cute and adorable. I learned more about holding the camera steadier while interviewing the freshman class. ”
Fellow student Elizabeth Burcheld said, “The project has been bittersweet for me ... On the one end, I really enjoyed having access to the equipment and resources that are necessary in making a documentary, learning how to use iMovie and Mac products, as well as getting a chance to talk on a personal basis with my interviewees. On the other hand, the pressures of deadlines when you are trying to work around your interviewees ’ schedules is really stressful. This was especially so for me, because four out of eight of my interviews cancelled on me the day of their interview. Not only that, but my rst version of the documentary was deleted and I had to start over from scratch. Overall though, I am really really happy with how it turned out and can ’t wait to see everyone else ’s documentaries at the festival! ” The festival is free and open to the public with light refreshments being offered. For more information, contact Dr. Patrick S. Brennan at patrick. brennan@maconstate.edu or (478) 471-5776.
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NEWS
Nov. 30, 2011
Do you like to write? Would you like to see your name in print? Join the Macon Statement today! The Statement is looking for staff writers and editors to write news, sports, features, and opinions. Apply today! Go to studentweb.maconstate.edu/maconstatement to fill out an application, or stop by the student media room, 120 of the Student Media Center.
The Macon Statement is looking for an new Editor-in-Chief for Spring 2012! Are you looking for an exciting opportunity to learn and practice in the media industry? This position will give you experience in the field. It also pays! Apply today! Application process: * Candidates are required to submit three examples of previously published work. All writing samples should be submitted in hard copy. One sample should be a graded paper from a class. * Candidates must submit a statement describing his/her vision for the student newspaper. * Candidates must submit a current resume. * Resume, copies of previous work and vision statement must be delivered to the attention of Michael Stewart, Assistant Dean of Students, Student Life Center, Room 121, Macon Campus. The chair of the Student Media Advisory Board will convene a meeting of the Board for review and selection of the successful candidate. The Student Media Coordinator will advise the successful candidate in writing of his/her appointment. * The successful applicant will receive a stipend roughly equivalent to the salary of a student assistant working 19.5 hours per week.
For more information, contact: Michael Stewart at (michael.stewart@maconstate.edu) 478-757-6651 or Katherine Tippins (katherine.tippins@maconstate.edu) 478-471-5333
t ’s that time of year again when Christmas music plays on loop and we break out the decorations. Soon television stations will be overrun with holiday movies and specials. So with all the holiday movies out there, which ones are worth watching? Fear not dear readers for I have come up with a list of some of my personal favorite holiday movies that will hopefully help. 10. “Bad Santa ”: Sometimes holiday movies can get too gushy with the ‘Christmas spirit ’ theme. When this happens, it ’s nice to take a break with a movie that ’s not so heart-warming. Following the misadventures of Billy Bob Thornton, an alcoholic mall Santa who happens to also be a thief, this movie is perfect for one such break. Although it is comical, this is denitely not a lm for the family. 9. “The Nightmare before Christmas ”: It isn ’t often that you nd a movie interchangeable between Halloween and Christmas, but this is one of them. It follows the story of Jack Skellington who decides that Halloween town will put on their own version of Christmas. The incredible animation, music and storyline make this one worth watching. 8. “Elf ”: After being raised by elves, Buddy (Will Ferrell) is sent to New York City in search of his family bringing with him nonstop happiness and an unwavering love for all things Christmas. Buddy ’s lack of experience gets him into some very funny situations, but in the end reminds everyone of the true meaning of Christmas. This is certainly a cute movie to watch with the family. 7. “National Lampoon ’s Christmas Vacation ”: Everything that could go wrong does go wrong in this Chevy Chase lm. Between the tree mishaps, the light display that doesn ’t go quite right and the wacky family members that show up for dinner, this movie is positively hysterical. 6. “A Christmas Story ”: I saw this movie for the rst time a couple years ago and immediately
loved it. Many of the situations in this movie were just downright hilarious. Then, why is it so low on my list? For one simple reason: it is overplayed. You can pretty much count on this movie being shown on TV every day during the week of Christmas. 5. “Home Alone ”: Although the storyline is very unrealistic, this movie is still one of my favorites. Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern are absolutely wonderful in this lm. After all, watching two dim-witted thieves get taken down by various booby traps set by an 8-year-old can be quite comical. 4. “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer ” (1964): Despite the creepy animation, this movie is a part of Christmas tradition in my family. Drawing on the song of the same title, Sam the snowman, voiced by the wonderful Burl Ives, relates the story of Rudolph in a way that people of all ages can enjoy. 3. “Scrooge ” (1951): This is the best lm rendition of Charles Dickens ’s classic novel that I have seen. The story follows Ebenezer Scrooge as he learns what the spirit of Christmas is all about with the help of some friendlyspirits.ThestorylinecoupledwithAlistairSim ’s outstanding performance makes for one great movie. 2. “How the Grinch Stole Christmas ” (1966): When I think Christmas, my mind automatically goes to the story of the Grinch and his Scrooge-like transformation. You can ’t go wrong with Dr. Seuss-inspired animation set to the narration of the great Boris Karloff. Not to mention, the featured song “You ’re A Mean One Mr. Grinch ” masterfully sung by Thurl Ravenscroft. All in all, this is a great lm to watch with the family. 1. “It ’s a Wonderful Life ”: After years of my family telling me to watch this movie, I nally did about a month ago and was not disappointed. It ’s set during the Christmas season and George Bailey is on the verge of losing everything that he worked so hard for. He becomes so distressed that an angel is sent to show him what the world would have been like had he not existed. This lm was fantastically done and proved to be one of the most inspirational movies I have seen.
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Nov. 30, 2011
BY STEPHANIE MILLER | COPY EDITOR
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OPINIONS
Starting the season with a holiday flick
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OPINIONS
Nov. 30, 2011
Ready for Winter Break? What are you doing this holiday season?
Submit your comments to us on Facebook!
Got opinions? Share them by commenting here: studentweb.maconstate.edu/maconstatement. The Macon Statement Staff
Hanlin
Editor-in-Chief: Sarah Frye-Mitchell editor@maconstate.edu
Cartoonist: Patrick Lippert
News Editor: Jessica Spencer newseditor@maconstate.edu Opinions Editor: Kenny Logan opinionseditor@maconstate.edu Features Editor: Danielle Quesenberry featuresseditor@maconstate.edu Sports Editor: Kaleb Clark sportseditor@maconstate.edu Photo Editor and Layout Editor: Meaghan Smith photoeditor@maconstate.edu Online Editor: Harry Underwood onlineeditor@maconstate.edu Copy Editors: Alexis Meeks, Stephanie Miller Writers/Columnists: Noelle Sample, Kristin
Contact Student Media Coordinator Katherine Tippins (katherine.tippins@ maconstate.edu) if you’’re interested in joining The Macon Statement staff. Letters Policy The editor of The Macon Statement will try to print all letters received. Letters should be, at maximum, 250 to 300 words long. The writer must include: full name, professional title if a Macon State employee or Georgia resident, or year and major if a student. An address and phone number are required with all letters sent, but this personal information will not be published. The student newspaper reserves the right to edit letters for style, length or possible libel. The newspaper will not, under any circumstance, withhold names. Please address all correspondence to Letter to the Editor at editor@
maconstate.edu. Where current events are concerned, priority will be given to those letters written by students, faculty and staff of Macon State College. DISCLAIMER: The Macon Statement is the registered student newspaper of Macon State College and is published biweekly (Wednesdays) during fall and spring semesters. Opinions and ideas expressed in The Macon Statement are those of the individual artists, authors and student editors, and are not those of Macon State College, its Board of Regents, the student body or the advertisers. The Macon Statement is paid for, in part, through student activity fees. Contact Us: The Macon Statement Student Life Center Room 120 100 College Drive Macon, GA 31206 478-757-3605, Fax: 478-757-2626 editor@maconstate.edu
Nov. 30, 2011
OPINIONS
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Get into the holiday spirit with these Christmas classics BY STEPHANIE MILLER | COPY EDITOR While doing some shopping the other day I noticed the continual loop of holiday music which I found disappointing to say the least. The station neglected the more traditional tunes in favor of newer holiday songs. Although these newer songs are decent in their own right, I much prefer the smooth sounds of the crooners and the more traditional choral arrangements. While the pop versions are enjoyable to listen to, I feel that these classics really capture the essence of the holiday spirit both in lyrics and melody. 10. “There ’s No Place like Home for the Holidays ” – Sung by Perry Como, this song reminds us of that allimportant part of the holiday season, that is, family. The reassuring lyrics coupled with Como ’s charismatic sound make this one of my personal favorites. 9. “Winter Wonderland ” – The relaxing image produced from these lyrics along with the elegant voice of Bing Crosby make this song a holiday classic and Crosby ’s most popular tune. 8. “Baby it ’s Cold Outside ” – Well, my favorite version of this song was the one in the movie “Elf ” sung by Will Ferrell and Zooey Deschanel. However, since this movie version was neverr extended into the whole song, a similar one by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Jordan fits the bill. Their voices harmonize well with one another in this light-spirited duet. 7. “Silent Night ” – This song in itself is very soothing and pleasing to the ear, so there are many versions that are good. However, my favorite rendition is the one sung by Burl Ives. This is not a well known version, but his voice has a certain melodic tone to it which makes it the best. 6. “Rockin ’ Around the Christmas Tree ” – Ever since the first time I heard this song, I ’ve really liked it. Brenda Lee has a classy voice
which complements the more upbeat music. All in all, this is a very fun song to listen to. 5. “Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow! ”- Although most of the other songs have multiple versions I enjoy quite a lot, there is only one for this song: Dean Martin. The tone of his voice meshes perfectly with the melody of the song, making this the only version as far as I ’m concerned. 4. “Sleigh Ride ” - There are so many versions of this song and most of them are actually decent. Although I do like the original version, I really enjoy the energy of the one by the Ronnettes. Another version worth mentioning is by the duo She & Him made up of Zooey Deschanel and M. Ward. 3. “Oh Holy Night ”- There are so many fantastic versions of this Christmas classic, but my favorite rendition would have to be the one by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. Their version combines the power of the men ’s voices with the beauty of the women ’s voices in a manner that is most pleasing to listen to. I was also pleasantly surprised with Martina McBride ’s rendition which is also very well done. 2. “The Little Drummer Boy ” - This song depicts the heartwarming story of the little drummer boy who perfectly embodied the giving spirit. The Harry Simeone Chorale version is closest to the one featured in the movie of the same name and proves just as inspiring. Bing Crosby ’s rendition is outstanding as well. 1. “Carol of the Bells ”- This is one of the most popular Christmas Carols and is featured in many commercials. Although there are many covers of this tune, the rendition by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir is my favorite. The voices of the choir mesh perfectly with the bells and horns of the orchestra making for the ideal musical composition.
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OPINIONS
Nov. 30, 2011
Americans ask for equality in health care BY KENNY LOGAN | OPINIONS EDITOR According to a survey by the Commonwealth Fund, Americans with chronic illnesses struggle more to pay their medical bills or need more help than their counterparts in other high-income countries. The survey studied 18,000 adults not in the United States, but in ten other countries around the world. Politicians and policymakers who advocate for health care reform have used past reports by the nonpartisan group. Chances are this one will be touted as a strong argument. “Despite spending far more on health care than any other country, the United States practically stands alone when it comes to people with illness or chronic conditions having difficulty affording health care and paying medical bills, ” said Karen Davis, Commonwealth Fund president, according to the Commonwealth Fund website. The survey, which took place over the telephone, included those who were in fair or good health, had surgery in the recent years, or were treated for a serious illness or injury in the past year. 42 percent of the 1,200 U.S. adults in the survey went without care, visiting a doctor, or not getting a prescription filled, because of costs. More than a quarter (27 percent) said they couldn ’t pay, the study found. The comparison with countries like Australia, Great Britain, Canada, France, Germany, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Sweden, and Switzerland, reveals at the most a 41-point gap. Those countries had between 1 and 14 percent. More than seven out of ten people in Britain, Switzerland,
France, New Zealand, and the Netherlands were found to be able to get an appointment for their illnesses on the same day or the next. Half of the Canadian and Swiss patients are able to get the same speedy care. 51 percent of adults under the age of 65 didn ’t have care because of the costs when compared to those older than 65, who were under Medicare. (See www.commonwealthfund.org) With these stats how are we as Americans still able to say with a straight face we have the best health care system in the world? Remarks about how having universal health care will lead to “rationed care ” in the country would be right if we didn ’t already have it. Ask anyone who is not able to pay for an operation. It ’s a tragedy that we have such wealth yet people are still progressively getting sick and dying from lack of care. While the citizens of other countries are getting adequate health care – the monetary issues presently plaguing the countries are the result of something else – America ’s version of health care are nothing but bad jokes on our behalf. When you combine the lack of universal health care with the assault on social entitlement programs like social security, unemployment benefits, Medicaid, etc., how do you think we look to any other country? What will happen to your loved ones when they are unable to get what they need because there is no government program for it? I ’ll tell you what will happen: people will look back and wonder why they permitted this attack to happen, but it will be too late to change it.
Student Life presents: “How The Grinch Stole Christmas ” at two separate screenings. Warner Robins Campus Friday, Dec. 2 @ 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. Academic Services Building Auditorium
Macon Campus Sunday, Dec. 4 @ 9 p.m. – 11:30 p.m. Math (LS) Auditorium A Midnight Pancake Breakfast will follow at 11:30 p.m. in the Wellness Center Gym.
uring the holiday season, the majority of people look forward to visiting family and friends to enjoy a large meal and kindred spirits. However, many are not able to share in this same holiday experience. Due to financial burdens many are not able to provide both food and gifts to their family members. For families such as this there are many volunteer and donation opportunities to help families get what they need to make the holiday season special. Perhaps the most well-known donation opportunity is provided by the Salvation Army. Volunteers from the organization stand outside of many stores, including Wal-Mart and JC Penny, ringing bells and accepting monetary donations as part of the Red Kettle Campaign to help people in need. In addition to the Red Kettle Campaign, the Salvation Army has teamed up with JC Penny for an online Angel Giving Tree which will last until Dec. 13. With this campaign, an individual or group goes online and chooses a child or children and purchases gifts to be sent to the child. For more information on this particular campaign, visit: jcp.com/angel. Macon State College is also getting involved by sponsoring a hat drive to benefit the homeless. According to the Nov. 21-25 Blue Storm Report, new men ’s hats are being collected through Dec. 6 to help the homeless in Bibb County. There are donation boxes in the lobbies of the Jones Building and the Humanities Building. You may also bring the hats to the Office of Student Life. Besides the opportunity of giving and receiving gifts one of the most looked-forward-to aspects of the holiday season is the food. Unfortunately, there are many who lack the necessary means to provide food for their families. So as part of the holiday spirit many organizations sponsor canned food drives to help. Many grocery
stores, such as Kroger and Publix, place boxes near the entrances for non-perishable food items. Many churches also collect food donations. The Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce will be collecting non-perishable food items for service members who are not able to provide food and gifts for their families. They will also be accepting monetary donations to purchase food items for these families. All donations should be brought to the chamber office by Dec. 7. For more information, contact the Chamber of Commerce at 478-621-2000. In addition to donating food products, opportunities arise to donate time as a volunteer serving food to those in need. There were a few places in the Middle Georgia area that provided free Thanksgiving meals and there are sure to be places providing free Christmas dinners although plans are still tentative. Brandy Flynn, who is majoring in public service, volunteered her time at one such event for Thanksgiving. Flynn took her two children with her to the Wellston Diner on Thanksgiving Day from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. to help serve Thanksgiving meals to the needy. Flynn said, “I love charity events and volunteering for them. I have been blessed with a wonderful husband and healthy children and I feel the need to give back to the world every chance I get. ” On the importance of volunteering at these types of events Flynn said, “Some people don ’t have friends and family to help lift them up during hard times and it feels good to be that friend someone in need is looking for. It may just be a hot meal and a conversation to one person, but it could be the greatest day of the year to someone who doesn ’t get a meal or conversation on a daily basis. One small gesture can make a huge difference in the life of someone less fortunate. ” If you are able to donate or volunteer this holiday season, please do so. Not only will it make you feel good, but it will benet others in the community as well. Our community is our responsibility, so we should do whatever we can to help make it a better place for everyone who lives there.
FEATURES
BY STEPHANIE MILLER | COPY EDITOR
Nov. 30, 2011
Helping others this holiday season
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FEATURES
What are you thankful for? Macon Statement staff share their thoughts. “I ’m thankful for my mom, who is my biggest fan. ” Noelle Sample Staff Writer “I ’m thankful for patience, love and family. ” Richard Groves Staff Writer “I ’m thankful for my husband and my stepson; they are my greatest blessings. ” Sarah Frye-Mitchell Editor-in-Chief “This year I ’m thankful for the creative people that I know. Every day they help me think in new ways. ” Alexis Meeks Copy Editor “I ’m thankful for the people in my life and the people I know ” Christie Cummings Staff Writer “I ’m my husband, family, and our soon-to-be baby boy! ” Meaghan Smith Photo and Layout Editor
Nov. 30, 2011
Nov. 30, 2011
FEATURES
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Cooking for the holidays BY ALEXIS MEEKS | COPY EDITOR The winter holidays are right around the corner and we all enjoy the great traditional foods that are typically served during this time of year. However sometimes you just aren ’t able to make it home for the holidays or you ’ve been asked to bring a dish to a party. So to help feed your appetite and often those of your friends here are a few of my favorite easy recipes that go great for Chanukah, Yule, or Christmas.
Basic potato latkes (pancakes)
Simple and versatile shortbread cookies
Yields: approximately 20 Cook time: 6-12 minutes per latke pancakes depending on size Prep time: about 45 minutes Ingredients: • 1/4 tsp. pepper (to taste) • 5 large potatoes • 1/4 to 3/4 cups all-purpose • 2 onions our • 3 large eggs (beaten) • Canola oil for frying • 1 tsp. salt (to taste) Preparation: 1. Peel potatoes. Place in a bowl of icy lemon water so they won ’t turn brown. 2. Peel outer layer of onions and cut both in half. 3. Next shred the peeled potatoes and onions with a cheese grater until completely done. 4. Place the shredded remains in the center of a square of cheese cloth or a clean hand towel. Take the corners of the fabric used and bundle them up in the middle over the shredded potato and onion mixture and gently but rmly twist until the mixture is mostly dry. 5. Place the now dry the mixture into a large bowl. Add beaten eggs, salt and pepper. Add our until the mixture holds together (amount used depends on size and moister content of potatoes) 6. Pour 1 inch of oil into a large, deep frying pan. Heat the oil over mediumhigh heat. 7. As oil heats take 1/4 cups of potato mixture and shape into balls until all of the mixture is used up. 8. Take these potato balls and slightly atten them out until they look like small pancakes. 9. Carefully drop a few (3 or 4) of the latkes into the hot oil. 10. Fry each round for several 3-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. 11. Drain on paper towels and lightly sprinkle with salt and pepper. Tips: • Latkes are best when served warm and don ’t reheat very well so to keep them warm for longer just spread one at layer upon a cookie sheet and pop into an oven set at 150 degrees fahrenheit. Actually this tip works for most foods. • Try eating these with apple sauce, sour cream, cheese or some brisket.
Yields: around 4 dozen small Cold time: 30 minutes cookies Cook time: 10-15 minutes per Prep time: 20 minutes batch Ingredients: • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract • 3 sticks unsalted butter (at • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose our room temperature) • 1/4 teaspoon salt • 1 cup sugar Preparation: 1. In a large bowl mix together the butter and sugar with an electric mixer until they are just combined. Add the vanilla. 2. In a medium bowl, combine together the our and salt, and then add them to the butter-and-sugar mixture. Mix on low speed until the dough starts to come together. 3. Dump the dough onto a lightly oured surface and knead (fold) everything together with your hands for about 5 minutes or until everything is well combined. Divide dough into four pieces and atten slightly. Now you MUST chill the dough for 30 minutes so that it doesn ’t fall apart when you cut it. 4. Whilst the dough is chilling preheat your oven to 350 degrees fahrenheit. 5. After dough has chilled, to shape your cookies roll out each dough round until it is about 1/4 of an inch thick (or thicker) and cut dough into 2 inch by 1 inch long rectangles. 6. Place dough rectangles onto a nonstick cookie sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, depending on thickness, or until golden brown. 7. Take cookies out of the oven and place on a wire rack to cool Tips: • If you made your cookies thicker you may need to increase the cook time by 5 minutes, but keep a VERY close eye on them. They will easily burn. • This recipe will make many different shapes and styles of short bread cookies so be creative. Try dipping the cooled cookies into some melted chocolate or press down the centers of the uncooked cookie dough with your thumb to make a nice little spot for llings such as jam.
Super easy mulled apple cider Yields: 10 to 12 cups Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: around 3 hours Ingredients: • 2 quarts apple cider • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar (or less) • 1/8 tsp. ground ginger • 1/4 tsp. ground black pepper • 1/4 tsp. ground clove or 2 whole cloves • 1 tsp. ground cinnamon or 2 cinnamon sticks • 1 orange (thinly sliced)
Preparation: 1. Combine all ingredients in a crock pot or large sauce pan. 2. Stir until sugar dissolves. 3. Cover and cook on very low for 2 to 4 hours. 4. Serve warm with an orange slice on the side. Tips: • If you used whole spices remove them before serving.
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Nov. 30, 2011
REVIEWS
Going to Hell: A review of ‘Damned ’ by Chuck Palahniuk BY KRISTIN HANLIN | STAFF WRITER huck Palahniuk, author of “Fight Club ” and a dozen other novels, is known for pushing the line of literary acceptability —and that ’s putting it lightly. “Damned, ” Palahniuk ’s most recent novel, is no exception to Palahniuk ’s reputation for raising a blatant middle nger at concerns of being politically correct. “Damned ” tells the story of 13-year-old Madison Desert Flower Rosa Parks Coyote Trickster Spencer, or Maddy for short. Madison winds up in Hell, for what she assumes to be a result of her overdosing on potent marijuana she stole from her rich and careless parents. Madison resolves to cross the landscape of Hell in order to nd Satan and nd out exactly why she was put in Hell. Along the way, she meets a handful of mists that become her very own version of The Breakfast Club. Except they ’re in Hell. Though the group originally sets off to confront Satan, along the way new opportunities arise and the story that results is the epitome of a dark comedy. The setting and situation for Madison might seem repugnant to some, especially to the general public in a locale such as Middle Georgia, but Madison assures that Hell really isn ’t all that bad. Sure, there ’s the Desert of Dandruff, the Valley of Used Disposable Diapers, and random hills of discarded nger (and toe) nail clippings, but once you get past that, Hell is just “a marginal neighborhood allowed to deteriorate to the extreme. ” A type of place I ’m sure we can all relate to. With tongue-in-cheek references to Judy Blume novels and a few sections that were almost too difcult for me to read without losing my appetite for the rest of my life, “Damned ” is an interesting mix of horror and comedy that is denitely worth perusing if you think you can handle it. Be prepared for demons ripping apart the souls of the damned and a particular scene involving a demon, a decapitated head, and an unfortunate parallel to “Gulliver ’s Travels ”. Palahniuk mixes blithe elements —such as the currency in Hell being candy from earth —with dark moments to create a work that is unlike any other story based in Hell that I ’ve ever read. That said, this book is unquestionably not for the lighthearted. It is denitely meant for adults and not necessarily meant to be enjoyed; rather the book functions as a motive for rethinking life. Madison ’s precocious words of wisdom targeted to the reader are as inspirational as they are, at times, disheartening. “No, it ’s not fair, but what makes earth feel like Hell is our expectation that it should feel like Heaven. Earth is earth. Dead is dead. You ’ll nd out for yourself soon enough. It won ’t help the situation for you to get all Photo resourced from Amazon.com upset, ” Madison explains at the end of the rst chapter. Palahniuk ’s book was published in October 2011. If you do decide to pick up a copy of “Damned, ” I wish you well on your literary journey. Don ’t forget to bring some candy, preferably ten full-sized Milky Way bars, and I ’ll see you in Hell.
13 Nov. 30, 2011
Tennis Club asks for support
BY KALEB CLARK | SPORTS EDITOR
he Tennis Club asks for more support after their successful fall semester. To name a few of the tennis club ’s accomplishments this semester you can start with their latest competitions. On Oct. 21 –23 the Club competed and placed 4th in their 8-team bracket in a competition at Hilton Head. On Nov. 19 the Club won mixed doubles and men ’s singles, winning overall against Bainsbridge College. In addition to playing well on the tennis courts, over the semester, club membership has increased with the addition of seven new players: Tori Cauley, Lindsey Williamson, Andrew Bloser, Lindsey Wright, Lisa Tran, Marco Filipponi, and Avinash Parekh. Each member of the Tennis Club has to compete with each other to take one of the limited travel roster slots. This leads to an internal competition amongst the club members that translates to stronger players competing in tournaments . However, the Tennis Club is currently battling a few challenges off of the courts. The team stated that they would
also like to see more fans to watch their matches. “We ’d like more support, ” said vice president Lonie Castellano. President of the Club Josh Deaton said, “they [students] can come out and watch, ” which is one of the biggest ways in which students can offer their support for the tennis club. Deaton also said, “It makes the whole team better by having more people out there [playing]. ” On Dec. 10 the Club plans to rematch against Bainsbridge on their home courts. Then next semester on Feb. 4 and 5 the Club will be hosting a state tournament where they will be inviting club teams from across Georgia to compete on the courts of Blue Storm. The team is seeking out an advisor who would be willing to work with the team at practices, facilitate their transportation, assist with fundraising and representation of Macon State through their club. If you want more information about joining the Tennis Club or if you are interested in becoming an advisor for the Club feel free to contact president of the Tennis Club, Josh Deaton, at (joshua.deaton@maconstate.edu) or Director of Recreation and Wellness James Hagler at (james.hagler@maconstate.edu).
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Photo courtesy of Tennis Club Tennis Club players: Marie Dixon (left) and Lindsey Williamson (right) playing womens doubles.
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New recreation and wellness building coming BY KALEB CLARK | SPORTS EDITOR In order to meet the growing needs of the students of Macon State, the college plans to build a new two story recreation and wellness center. The model facility will not be just a gym, it will be a true recreation and wellness center. “Anyone who has any leisure kinda desires can enjoy the building, ” said architect Lars Finderup. Much of the buildings attributes are meant to be appealing to everyone, such as: ping pong tables, recreation areas for volleyball and basketball, social spots, a lazy river, food services, game stations including a Xbox 360, PS3, and Wii, a golf simulator, a bowling alley with four lanes, a sun bathing deck, and racquetball/wallyball courts. For the more athletic people the building will include: weightlifting rooms/ training rooms, one aerobic room, an indoor swimming pool with lap swimming lanes, two basketball courts with a collegiate sized court across for competition, an indoor track, a cardio deck, and a room for spin class. Describing the building, Finderup said, “I think the words that come to mind are transparent, inviting, inclusive. ” According to the plans, when walking in the front door the contents of the building are made visible by the use of transparent glass walls. From the front lobby the bowling alley is to the right, the lazy river to the left, and the racquetball courts directly in front. On the second level the indoor track wraps around the pool area. The top of the building will be slanted to allow natural light to ow into the
building. At least one waterfall will be thundering down from the ceiling to add a natural feel to the building. “We want the building to belong to the site, relate to the lake, have water features, have glass, make it transparent, ” said architect Rowland Davidson. Part of Macon State ’s master plan is to invite students over to the new recreation building by contrusting a bridge connecting the academic side of campus to the future site of the new recreation building. The planned site for the building is located beside the lake and across from the College Station Apartments. The $21.5 million dollar project will be funded by the selling of bonds. The new $140 recreation and wellness fee charged to all students will assist in paying off these bonds. Students will have access to the center the same amount of semesters as they paid this fee even if they graduate before the center is built. What is to become of the current recreation and wellness center after this building is completed is still uncertain according to director of recreation and wellness James Hagler. Prior to the planning sessions with the architects, a survey was collected from a sampling of 1,049 students from Macon State regarding what they would like to be included in the new recreation center. Out of the 18 items on the survey, all but one were incorporated into the new center: a rock climbing wall. The planned completion date for the new recreation and wellness building is fall of 2013. President of Macon State, Dr. Albritten said at one of the planning sessions, “It ’s [the new rec and wellness center] going to be the heart of this organization. ”
Basketball Club fights hard in second half of opener BY KALEB CLARK | SPORTS EDITOR
One of the most noticeable differences in the second half came from player Lenny Samples who stepped up in the second half scoring 19 points compared to The Blue Storm Basketball Club ’s men ’s team fought a tough loss only scoring 2 points in the rst half. against Gordon College in their rst home game of their Fall 2011 season. When the last buzzer sounded the score stood at Blue Storm 67 to Gordon “We come out a little at, ” said student coach of the Basketball Team, London College 93. Williams. Leading the score board for Blue Storm for the In the rst half of the game Blue Storm ’s men overall game was Quinton Spivey who scored 28 total charged onto the court and quickly fell behind points, followed by the rest of the team: Lenny scored their opponent. Gordon ’s team played a tough 19 points, Darrell Adams scored 5 points, Dominique defense, crowding around Blue Storm players Griggs scored 4 points, Jayce Goosby scored 3 points, and preventing the team from scoring often. By and Javaris West, Joseph McAllister, and Byron Rolle halftime the score was lopsided with Gordon came away scoring 2 points each. having scored 60 points to Blue Storm ’s 27 points. “They were still pressing at the end of the game, During the rst half Williams said, “Defense trying to come back and I commend them for that, ” wins games. ” said Williams. Down by 33 points, Blue Storm came out of the Some of the problems Blue Storm faced were locker rooms strong and ready to ght to begin overthrowing the ball and missing their intended the second half. “Second half we had a big turn targets, and they were not always capable of effectively around, ” said number 5 Javaris West. covering their opponents while on defense. Blue Storm began rallying around plays that Williams promised a better performance at their carried the momentum of the game in their favor. next home game. He said that he noticed that the In the rst half Blue Storm scored only 28 points; team required more conditioning and composure on they fought back in the second half outscoring the court, and these could be gained by changing up Photo courtesy of James McMurran their opponents by 7 points. Ending the second Blue storm men ’s basketball team ghts against Gordon their practices. half Blue Storm scored 40 points while Gordon College. The Basketball Club ’s next home game will be on only scored 33. Jan. 12 against West Georgia College at 7 p..m.
Nov. 30, 2011
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Nov. 30, 2011