04.24.2009

04 24 09 | reportermag.com

REPORTER

IS HIRING Advertising Manager:

Must have good communication skills. Appropriate coursework and work experience a plus.

Managing Editor:

Good managerial skills and prior editing experience required.

Contact us at reporter@rit.edu

EDITOR’S NOTE EDITOR IN CHIEF

Andy Rees

Being a white, straight male who’s currently attending college, I don’t bring much to the table in the way of

| eic@reportermag.com MANAGING EDITOR

diversity. One day I may grow up and become the dreaded Man that people are always fighting.

Ilsa Shaw

However, that doesn’t mean that I’m blind to the world around me.

| managing@reportermag.com

Growing up, I was a member of one of the most institutionally homophobic organizations in the U.S.:

David Spiecker

COPY EDITOR

The Boy Scouts of America. In essence, I still am a member. I took a lot of lessons away from my experience

| copy@reportermag.com

as a scout, but one of the most important revolved around the Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell policy. While not

Michael Conti

NEWS EDITOR

uniformly implemented on a national level, this is a dangerous and misinformed attempt to avoid

| news@reportermag.com LEISURE EDITOR

addressing a problem.

John Howard

The results can be bad. In the summer of 1999, at a camp where I would later work, a 16-year-old

| leisure@reportermag.com FEATURES EDITOR

Madeleine Villavicencio

to be known as “Black Tuesday” among the staff. For the first time in its 80 years of operation, the camp

| features@reportermag.com SPORTS/VIEWS EDITOR

Emily Bogle

was effectively shut down by a sit-down strike. The striking workers, aged 15 to 23 and scouts themselves, demanded the reinstatement of the terminated employee.

| sports@reportermag.com ONLINE EDITOR

employee and Eagle Scout was fired after being questioned about his sexuality. The following day came

Adimabua Ofunne

The local media jumped on the story and the employee filed a suit for wrongful termination. When the dust settled, the employee was rehired, many top-level administrators at the camp and the council were

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fired, and the camp changed forever.

WRITERS

Derrick Behm, Alecia Crawford, Janis

Connor, Michael Conti, Carolyn Dunne, Jamie

When I started working there, five summers later, Black Tuesday had become something of an urban legend. Most of the staff from 1999 had grown up and moved on. All we were left with was bits and pieces

Langley, Laura Mandanas, Emily Mohlmann,

of the camp’s most important campfire story. The longer I worked there, the more I came to know the story

Kimberly Reeb, David Spiecker, Kelly Votolato

and how it had affected the lives of the staff that had lived through it. Even though the employee had been rehired, there was still a fear reprisal if someone were to be openly gay. There was an unspoken distrust

ART

of the administration, even 10 years later.

ART DIRECTOR

I know many gay scouts, some of whom chose to remain in the closet to maintain their connection with

Evan Anthony

scouting. While we may be growing up in a post-Will and Grace world (see “Breaking the Silence,” pg. 16),

| art.director@reportermag.com STAFF DESIGNERS

Jena Buckwell, Nicholas Tassone

PHOTO EDITOR

this old guard mentality.

Steve Pfost,

The lesson that I learned is this: Despite the radical advances that our society has made, there are still

| photo@reportermag.com STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS

there are still a lot of walls to overcome. When I look back at pictures from 1999 and see young men in scout uniforms giving the finger to the administrative building, I see a generation that’s ready to overcome

Lisa Barnes

AD DESIGNER

Eric Drummond,

places (not too far from here) where this civil rights movement has yet to get off the ground.

K. Nicole Murtagh, Steve Pfost, David Spiecker STAFF ILLUSTRATORS CARTOONIST

Joanna Eberts

CartoonBand

BUSINESS

Andy Rees

PUBLICITY MANAGER AD MANAGER

Lindsay Block

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Kyle O’Neill

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Danielle Gotschall

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Kyle O’Neill

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Chris Zubak-Skees

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Pugliese

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Reporter Magazine is published weekly during the academic year by a staff comprised of students at Rochester Institute of Technology. Business, Editorial, and Design facilities are located in Room A-426, in the lower level of the Student Alumni Union. Our phone number is 1.800.970.5406. The Advertising Department can be reached at 1.800.970.5406 ext. 0. The opinions expressed in Reporter do not necessarily reflect those of the Institute. Uh oh, Andy broke into the back-up articles and Susie came in to be the secret art director. Letters to the Editor may also be sent to reporter@rit.edu. Reporter is not responsible for materials presented in advertising areas. No letters will be printed unless signed. All letters received become the property of Reporter. Reporter takes pride in its membership in the Associated Collegiate Press and American Civil Liberties Union. Copyright © 2009 Reporter Magazine. All rights reserved. No portion of this Magazine may be reproduced without prior written permission.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

04 24 09 | VOLUME 58 | ISSUE 28

NEWS PG. 06

FEATURES PG. 16

Above photograph by Steve Pfost.

MARLEE MATLIN

BREAKING THE SILENCE

The driver of the newly designed RIT Formula

Sell-out or the best of both worlds?

GLBT student groups at RIT.

SAE car suits up before a test run.

RIT and the Lake Wobegon Effect.

SPORTS PG. 23

Cover photograph by K. Nicole Murtagh and

INFOGRAPHIC: SG ELECTION RESULTS

RIT/GALLAUDET SPORTS WEEKEND 2009

Evan Witek.

Matt Danna and Jackie Robinson win by

RIT earns some bragging rights.

INFOGRAPHIC: VILLAGE TECHMILLA

a landslide.

SG UPDATE

VIEWS PG. 28

Message Center Abuse.

BEYOND BELIEF

RIT FORECAST

An analysis of the argument against gay

It’s Honesty Day. I’m not lying.

LEISURE PG. 10

marriage.

WORD ON THE STREET What do you think about gay marriage?

RELAY FOR LIFE

RINGS

Fundraising for a cause.

[crunk] faced.

FIRST FRIDAYS The galleries of Rochester open their doors.

REVIEWS Who doesn’t like Skittles?

AT YOUR LEISURE Syzygy.

5

MARLEE MATLIN:

SELL-OUT OR THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS? These past few weeks you may have seen a poster announcing Marlee

beginning of May. After her book was released on April 14, comments

Matlin’s appearance at RIT. Maybe the one you saw had a mustache

like, “You’re deaf, so act deaf” were left on her Facebook page.

drawn on it, or maybe you haven’t seen one at all, since someone ripped

“She should raise her children in both the hearing and Deaf world,”

them down. Kari Calenzo, director of Public Relations for Student

stated Joshua Struck, a third year Information and Computer Science

Government, found out that some of their flyers were being torn down

major at NTID. Struck explained how Matlin should continue to

in NTID. Rumors were spreading that a portion of the Deaf community

incorporate Deaf culture into her family life more. He also feels that it is

was unhappy with Matlin’s appearance at RIT.

beneficial to teach your baby sign and that it improves communication

In 1986, Matlin became the youngest recipient to win an Academy Award for Best Actress for her motion picture debut in Children of a Lesser

between a baby and their parent.

Unlike Struck, many deaf individuals are unwilling to go on record,

God. When she accepted her award, she chose to use verbal speech

preferring to remain anonymous due to feeling that, no matter their

instead of sign language. At that moment, her fan base split down

opinion, they will be judged by other deaf individuals. Some feel that

the middle.

One group was happy, proud of her for winning and representing the

Matlin is an incredible inspiration to others who are deaf. Since her six week run on Dancing With the Stars last season and the release of

Deaf community. The other group was disappointed that she chose not

her autobiography, her fan base has increased. Others feel that Matlin

to use American Sign Language (ASL) during her acceptance speech.

should be less oral, or even have married a deaf man instead of a

Twenty one years later, those feelings still resonate among those who

hearing man.

identify with Deaf culture. When flyers that promoted her nationwide

It seems that Matlin has adapted throughout her life to the many

tour for her autobiography were recently posted on campus, those

environments that she has been in and has learned how to excel.

feelings reappeared through vandalism.

There is the possibility that Matlin feels fortunate for having the ability

In addition to stirring up negative feelings within some of the RIT/

to use her voice with her family, her friends, and with whomever else

NTID Deaf community, members of the Deaf community have reacted

she wants to. In her recent interview on Good Morning America, she used

to the release of her autobiography, I’ll Scream Later. Her speech is just

both ASL and her voice. •

one of many appearances she has scheduled throughout April and the

6 News | 04.24.09

by Kimberly Reeb | photograph by Steve Pfost

VILLAGE TECHMILLA compiled by Michael Conti

5

International Students

44

75

Recieve some type

Work on Campus

13

IF THE RIT STUDENT POPULATION WERE REDUCED TO A VILLAGE OF 100 PEOPLE, WHAT WOULD IT LOOK LIKE?

43

will change programs within RIT at least once

Involved in a campus club

60

32

First generation of college students

5

rated themselves as above average in creativity as compared to their peers

Active members of a fraternity or sorority

33

Female

Source: Open Administration Series, March 2009 Based on an idea by Donella Meadows, Dartmouth University (1990)

7

5 WAYS TO DRINK YOUR SOCKS OFF

CHEAP THRILLS: GREAT GAMES FOR LESS

GAME REVIEW: RHYTHM HEAVEN

by Danielle Gotschall

by Chukwuma Morah

by Chukwuma Morah

FIVE CRAZY DRINKING GAMES THAT PROMISE TO MAKE YOUR MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCES IN COLLEGE.

SSX3: ONE OF THE GREATEST SNOWBOARD GAMES OF ALL TIMES; WHAT MADE IT GREAT AND TIMELESS.

RHYTHM HEAVEN IS A NEW GAME THAT LAUNCHED WITH THE NINTENDO DSI. IT IS A CUTE CAME TO PUT YOU IN A HAPPY MOOD ALL DAY.

AUDIO SLIDESHOW: A UNION AT RIT?

GLBT PORTRAIT SLIDESHOW

ALBUM REVIEW: DEATH CAB FOR CUTIE

by Alex Pagliaro

by Eric Drummond

THE OPEN DOOR EP: THE LATEST RELEASE

BY DEATH CAB FOR CUTIE THREATENS TO BE GREATER THAN THE RECENT ALBUM.

SEE THE RALLIES AND LISTEN TO THE VOICES ON BOTH SIDES OF THE ARGUMENT.

8 News | 04.24.09

by K. Nicole Murtagh

A LOOK AT THE FACES OF RIT’S GLBT COMMUNITY.

SG UPDATE

RIT FORECAST

ACADEMIC CHANGES PROPOSED

25 SATURDAY

by Jamie Langley

compiled by Alecia Crawford

Doug Meadows, member of the Academic Affairs Committee,

GUEST CHEF AT ROONEY’S

presented the senate with two topics regarding a change to the

Rooney’s Restaurant. 90 Henrietta St. 8:30 p.m. A guest chef from

add/drop period and the grading system. Meadows expressed

Lyon, France graces the restaurant with French cuisine.

concern with having two full weeks for the add/drop period,

Cost: Appetizers start at $5 and main courses start at $19.

as students adding a course in Week 2 may be very far behind in that course. The Academic Affairs Committee’s current proposal is

26 SUNDAY

to allow students to add/drop courses until 11 p.m. of the seventh

HUG AN AUSTRALIAN DAY

calendar day after the quarter begins. Members of the senate

This is a great opportunity for you to do your part in improving

expressed concern that ending the add/drop period in Week 1 will

international relations. And Hugs. Cost: Free.

not make a difference in how far behind students could potentially

RENT

be in an added course. Adam Richlin, College of Imaging Arts and

Auditorium Theatre. 885 East Main St. 2 p.m. The hit movie

Sciences senator, said that the change should allow for flexibility;

returns to the stage as a tour around the US for all who can’t

if the add/drop period ends in Week 1, academic advisors should

make it to NYC. Cost: Tickets start at $29.50.

be able to determine if a class can be added or not. Meadows and Phil Amsler, the Residence Halls Association representative, will take SG’s opinions back to the Academic Senate.

Meadows also discussed adding pluses and minuses to RIT’s grading system. The senate expressed concerns that doing so

27 MONDAY TELL A STORY DAY Celebrate story-tellings of all kinds, like books, movies and rap music. Cost: Free.

would lower student GPAs. The senate would like to discuss this

$1 BOWLING GAMES

issue with members of the student body before ultimately deciding

L&M Lanes. 873 Merchants Rd. 4 - 6 p.m. A dollar can get you a

whether they favor or oppose this proposal.

lot of things — a McDouble, two apple pies, frosties, and now bowling games. Cost: $1 plus shoe rental price.

MAJOR STUDENT ORGANIZATION (MSO) GUIDELINES REVISED Kiersten Shinrock, Director of Organizational Recognition, outlined

28 TUESDAY

revised guidelines for Representative Student Organizations (RSO)

BASEBALL VS. KEUKA

to become MSOs: Prior to petitioning SG for MSO status, the RSO

RIT Field. 2 p.m. Come support the Tigers against the

must have been functioning for at least a year with a constitution

Keuka Storm! Cost: Free.

and officers; the RSO’s constitution and bylaws must be reviewed

by SG; the RSO must represent an underrepresented or minority

29 WEDNESDAY

population; its advisor must be a faculty member; and 20 percent

CONCERT: O.A.R. WITH GUEST PARACHUTE

of the group’s members must sign a petition for MSO status.

Gordon Field House. 7:30 p.m. Live music in the field house returns with O.A.R., commonly hailed as “one of the best live

INBOX OVERLOAD Matt Danna, SG vice president, said that the Message Center system is being abused, as students are receiving a large volume of

bands on the planet.” Cost: Students: $25, Others: $30.

30 THURSDAY

e-mails unrelated to them. Ed Wolf, SG president, discussed how

NATIONAL HONESTY DAY

students could unsubscribe from some of these e-mails through

Use this day to practice something everybody should already be

the http://my.rit.edu portal. The senate decided to take the issue to

practicing: telling the truth. Cost: Free.

the IT Committee.

ALICE IN WONDERLAND

INVOLVING STUDENTS IN POST-TENURE REVIEW

comes the timeless tale written by the amazing and controversial

Dave Mullaney, GCCIS senator, discussed post-tenure review and

photographer Lewis Carroll that has inspired psychedelic

how to further involve students in evaluating faculty members.

musicians. Cost: RIT: $5, Others: $7.

Panara Theatre. 7:30 p.m. Brought to life by NTID Performing Arts

The senate’s concerns were that students did not feel as though they get anything out of filling out evaluation forms. Another

1 FRIDAY

concern was the timeliness of the results from the evaluation

SLIM REDMOND BAND WITH JATOBA

forms. Paper evaluations take too long to get back to the professor

lovin’cup. 9 p.m. This unique blend of roots-roch, Afro-Caribbean,

and the professor may not be able to address issues in time for the

and reggae music from Ithaca, NY is for your listening pleasure.

upcoming quarter.

Cost: Free.

9

RELAY FOR LIFE: FUNDRAISING FOR A CAUSE

by Carolyn Dunne | illustration by Joanna Eberts

Have you been affected by cancer? According to the American

The Rotaract Club at RIT first brought Relay for Life to campus in 2008.

Cancer Society, an estimated 1,437,180 new cancer diagnoses

Despite being the first year for the event, several teams showed up and

were made in 2008. Cancer not only affects the person whose

raised a good deal of money, which went to support research at the

diagnosis it was, but their families as well, further impacting

University of Rochester, advocacy for cancer patient rights, educational

millions more lives.

programs, and support efforts for cancer patients, survivors, and their families.

10  Leisure | 04.24.09

questioned as to how he felt about people

for remembrance of loved ones who have been

not attending the event because they think

affected by cancer, or to reflect on someone’s

these sort of events are more “feel good” than

own experience with cancer.

“do good,” Smith reacted strongly in favor

Throughout the night, comments were

of attending. “Treatment for cancer is very

overheard in terms of how great the event had

expensive … It’s a good thing to go and

turned out. Just as we were not disappointed

help out.”

last year, Rotaract did a great job of getting

He felt that the support he received during

people involved in the different events and

his time at Memorial Sloan-Kettering

sustaining the excitement all night long.

Hospital’s Cancer Center in New York City

Several attendees even spoke about how they

really helped him through the experience.

planned to stay the entire night, from 7 p.m. to

The groups that are funded through this effort

7 a.m., despite other commitments they had to

give patients a chance to relax and enjoy

fulfill in the morning.

themselves. Without Relay for Life and similar

Relay for Life wound up bringing in over two

events, several projects would be

hundred RIT students, who came together and

short of funds.

worked towards a common goal of not only

This year, over $18,000 was raised.

marginalizing cancer within our lifetime, but

There were a total of 31 teams and 207

to provide support for those living with cancer

participants in attendance, more than twice as

and the organizations that want to work with

with about 15 teams present. Some were even

many people from last year’s event.

them and help in any way possible. •

fundraising, from selling tie-dye t-shirts to

Gary Wolyn, third year Marketing and

holding a group date raffle. The event was

Psychology major, raised over $1,500

On Friday, April 24, at 7 p.m. in the SAU room

faithfully attended and supported by everyone

singlehandedly, in addition to being the Head

1829, there will be a meeting to form the committee

who registered.

Event Coordinator for the night’s activities.

for next year’s Relay for Life. Rotaract would like

The top five online fundraising teams were RIT

that all interested students attend.

At the 2008 event, about 100 people attended,

Various fundraising teams volunteered contestants for fun events throughout the

Rotaract, the Rush Henrietta society,

night to provide entertainment, including

the Society of Software Engineers, RIT

a drag contest, a contest involving each

Women’s Basketball, and BAMF,

competitor drinking a pitcher of unknown

with each team raising

contents, and even a bit of karaoke. Local acts

well over $1,000.

such as DJ Keo and the RIT Capoeira Club were

Games and events took place

also in attendance to perform and get people

throughout the night to keep

up and dancing to keep the night going

Relay for Life as lively as possible,

until morning.

with old favorites such as musical

The high point of last year’s event was Jason

chairs and limbo being played

Smith, second year Software Engineering

right alongside both a drag show

major, the featured speaker for the luminaria

and a frozen t-shirt contest,

ceremony. Speaking simply from his own

where the goal is to unknot a

experience and battle with bone cancer,

frozen t-shirt and put it on as

his recounting of how his life had changed

quickly as possible. Accompanying

with one phone call in September 2006 was

these games were several area

a poignant reminder of why it was worth the

musical artists and the Brick

time and effort each team member put into

City Singers, though the talented

their group fundraising.

DJ was definitely the musical

“When you’re out for a year, you see things from a different perspective,” Smith replied

highlight of the night.

The event of the night was the

when asked why he was going to participate

luminaria ceremony,

in Relay for Life for a second year. When

where people attending the event walked silently around the track with the lights dimmed so that they could read the inscriptions on various bags commemorating cancer patients and survivors alike. It was a time

11

May 15 - May 21

You’re graduating! Come celebrate with your fellow graduates!

Here is a week of events for seniors to enjoy:

Senior Night Friday May 15 Dinner at 5pm - 7pm Festivities at 6pm Free! Sign-up in the cab office SAU a-402

darien Lake Saturday May 16 10am - 8pm $5 sign up fee sign-up in the cab office SAU a-402

outdoor movie & bbq Monday May 18 8pm - 11pm

Role Models on the Greek Lawn Free!

rust belt comedy show Tuesday May 19 9pm - 11pm Ingle Auditorium Free!

hoppin’ down monroe Wednesday May 20 9pm - 1am Monroe Avenue Continuous busing provided Free!

livin’ it up at lovin’cup Thursday May 21 6pm - 2am Three bands playing inside and outside Free!

cab.rit.edu

FIRST

FRIDAYS

by Emily Mohlmann

in structure to battery packaging). Genesee Pottery will also have an opening reception for Stimulus Pots, the newest work by Chea Peng and Josh Duttinger. For a mix of art and music you may want to check out the Renaissance Art Gallery, which will feature David Braun, an

From its start in October of 2007, Rochester Contemporary Art Center has brought together non-profit, university and commercial art

artist whose watercolor works have nautical

PARTICIPATING GALLERIES

and floral themes. Braun’s opening reception

Gallery r

will be from 6 to 8 p.m. on May 1 and will

Gallery @ Record Archive

include live music and refreshments.

More Fire Glass Studio

In past open Fridays, the Rochester Contemporary Art Center had paintings and

Studio 34 Crocus Clay Works

venues for one night a month to showcase

sculptures on display from Brooklyn-based

Studio 354

Rochester art. This grand collaboration

artists Malin Abrahamsson and Ricky Sears.

Renaissance Art Gallery Visual Studies Workshop

happens at downtown galleries the first Friday

These works will still be on display during

of every month from 6 to 9 p.m. The best part

May’s First Friday. Past First Fridays have also

Gallery One Fine Arts

of First Friday — aside from the great art,

included live music from Hemlock Ridge,

Gallery at Downtown Fitness Club

music and food — is that it’s free.

a bluegrass band, at Bernunzio Uptown Music,

Method Lab

No car to get downtown? No problem.

plus small animal paintings by Yolanda Daliz

Hartnett Gallery

at Crocus Clay Works.

Creative Arts Co-op and Gallery

A shuttle runs from the Booth Fine Arts Building’s (7A) bus stop at RIT to Gallery r.

Don’t think all these galleries are just filled

Image City Photography Gallery

From there, you can check out the works in

with painting and photography either.

Baobab Cultural Center

Gallery r and pick up another shuttle that runs

On Friday, May 1, the Anti-war Storefront and

Gallery at the Art and Music Library

between all participating galleries

Gallery will be having Poets Against War and

Design Gallery at RRCDC

(from December to June only). If you take the

Occupation. Other stops on the route will

Viahealth Archives Consortium

shuttle, however, keep in mind that you’ll

include live music, most notably Bernunzio

Writers and Books

need to be back on your bus by 8:15 p.m. in

Uptown Music. If you hear your stomach

Rochester Contemporary Art Center

order to get back to RIT.

growling along the way, don’t worry. Spot

Bernunzio’s Uptown Music

Coffee is on the route for a nice beverage and

Greenwood Books

Last month, there were 29 participating galleries, some with extended hours before

snack. While you’re there, be sure to check out

Spot Coffee

and after First Friday’s regular time slot.

the works of local artists and artisans

Galvin/Davis Studio/Gallery

With 29 stops, you’ll have to choose carefully

featured on site. •

Anti-War Storefront and Gallery

for May include Martha Schermerhorn and her

Your next available chance to experience this event

The Mercer Gallery at MCC (The gallery

what you want to see. Some upcoming exhibits

Genesee Pottery and Booksmart Studio

Ikon-a-paks at Crocus Clay Works gallery.

is on May 1. More information on exhibitions and

also participates in First Friday but it is

An Ikon-a-pak is a three dimensional collage

participating galleries, as well as a shuttle map,

not on the bus route so alternate

housed inside a plastic blister pack (similar

can be found at http://firstfridayrochester.org.

transportation is necessary.) •

13

REVIEWS

a beautiful and successful 40-year-old

difference. That is, until it’s brought up again

Television Series

mother of four. She likes to date younger

(about every five minutes). The attractive

THE COUGAR

guys because she believes that men reach

males who don’t prefer to date women their

their prime in their 20s (while women,

age grow a bit aggravating and are,

by Alecia Crawford

RATING / DIG IT TV Land’s new show, The Cougar, is one of the

according to Anderson, don’t hit their peak

incidentally, a turn off. This is all climaxed

until they hit 40).

with an intense “kiss off” elimination where

Any fan of reality TV or dating shows will

Anderson kisses the guys she wants to stay

be addicted to The Cougar for the simple fact

and offers her cheek to the guy she’s not in-

that there’s someone ultimately trying to

terested in. Talk about all the guys indirectly

find love and everyone can relate to love

kissing each other.

most recent additions to the television mess

(or at least the idea of it). What this show

It’s a dating reality show that can fulfill the

of prime time. With good-looking people, lots

does, with the help of host Vivica A. Fox,

expectations of reality TV addicts and hope-

of testosterone, and one older lady, the social

is try to change the image of older women

less romantics for true love that only these

situation definitely makes things interesting.

dating younger men from robbing the cradle

shows can deliver. For everyone else, Fox is a

to female P-I-M-Ps.

hot mamajama who’s doing her thing. •

Similar to The Bachelorette in structure, 20 guys compete for a chance at the girl – in this case, the “cougar,” Stacey Anderson,

The fact that Anderson doesn’t look her age at all makes you forget the disturbing age

Candy

SKITTLES CRAZY CORES

by Janis Connor

CHERRY-LEMONADE

BLUE RASPBERRY-LEMON

Cherry-lemonade begins its flavor journey

Not being a fan of blue raspberry, I must say,

with an artificial cherry, one that isn’t as

this tart concoction is an instance where the

bad as the Wild Berry variety. The lemonade

flavor works well. The acidity of the lemon

flavor transforming the piece will distract your

balances the tang of the blue raspberry.

tongue from any cough syrup association.

The end result is a scrumptious mix.

STRAWBERRY-WATERMELON

RATING / DIG IT

The watermelon and strawberry share equal

To me, there is nothing novel about Crazy Cores. Both the Tropical and Smoothie Mix

flavor time, blending harmoniously. I don’t

varieties of Skittles are comprised of two

Who doesn’t like candy? Who doesn’t like

like strawberry and watermelon a great

different flavors in each piece. Many may prefer the unadulterated, original mix.

Skittles for that matter? This wonderful new

deal to begin with, and since the strawberry

twist on a staple of bite-sized treats will give

tasted identical to the original variety,

Still, there is nothing egregious about them

new meaning to these questions. Skittles

I didn’t fall in love with this flavor. It will

and I wouldn’t turn them down if someone

Crazy Cores has to be one of my new favorite

appease fans of those flavors.

offered me a bag, but I would probably buy

candies. With strawberry-watermelon,

MELON-BERRY

a different flavor if it were my own money I

cherry lemonade, mango-peach, melon-

I am confused by this flavor simply because

was spending. •

berry, and blue raspberry-lemon, there are 10

Wild Berry Skittles already contain a melon-

different flavors in one bag! If anything, it’s the

berry flavor. Either way, this piece refuses

best bargain under the sun.

to seek classification. The generic terms of

MANGO-PEACH

melon and berry offer no actual suggestion

Instead of mango, you get a blast of nectarine.

as to which melons or berries are being

It’s a juicy rush that then transitions into a

utilized and, upon tasting, I still had no

peach flavor reminiscent of the Jelly Belly

answer. I suppose it seemed like kiwi fruit

flavor. Despite not being mango, it does have a

more than anything else.

very tropical taste.

14 Leisure | 04.24.09

04.24.09 AT YOUR LEISURE

by John Howard

REPORTER RECOMMENDS

QUOTE

PHONESPELL.ORG If you’re looking for a catchy way to remem-

“I DON’T CARE WHAT YOU SAY ABOUT ME. JUST BE SURE TO SPELL MY NAME WRONG.”

ber your own phone number and the whole numerals thing just isn’t cutting it. Or perhaps you might be superstitious and think your phone number actually spells out something

by Baraba Streisand

of meaning. Either way, you should consider giving this site a good once-over. Simply go to the web page, punch in you or your friend’s number, and presto: A list of all possible

OVERSEEN AND OVERHEARD

word combinations matching their associated letters on a

Male student attacked by a bird on the west side of the

touch-tone phone keypad. Useless? Of course it is. But there’s

Engineering Building.

no harm in starting to brainstorm early for that radio jingle you’ll have to make when you drop out of engineering school

SG car #84 with a bicycle on the back, two and a half hours

to start up a local, ambulance-chasing law firm.

from campus in Utica, NY on Easter weekend.

WORD OF THE WEEK

SYZYGY

n. the nearly straight-line configuration of three celestial bodies (as the sun, moon and earth during a solar or lunar eclipse) in a gravitational system.

Definition provided by http://merriam-webster.com.

“You don’t need your arms or your hands to drive.”

-Student in heated argument with friends in the SAU

SUDOKU 7 2

STREAM OF FACTS

Difficulty Rating / Medium

9 5

8

5

4

8

7

4

4 3

The milk of cows and goats are not the only types used to

9

6

2

1

The CHEESE dog, an average hot dog injected with cheese

7 6

4

is currently in the works and set to hit screens in 2011. It will

1 5

1 2

in the center, was born in the Finkbeiner Meat Packing Co. during 1956 in LITTLE Rock, Arkansas.

LITTLE Fockers, the third of the Meet the Parents trilog y,

9

2

make cheese. Buffalo milk and water, for example, are used to make traditional mozzarella CHEESE.

3

8

1

4

5

7

8 4

be directed by Paul Weitz of American PIE. Apple PIE, unsurprisingly enough, had the top score in 2008 when the makers of Mrs. Smith’s surveyed America on its top

CARTOON by Cartoon Band

THREE favorite types of pie.

Before his role in the original The THREE Stooges, Moe Howard was part of Annette Kellerman’s vaudevillian aquatic act as a slapstick DIVING “girl”.

DIVING, dating back to the 17th century as training for gymnasts, was introduced as an Olympic event in the year 1912 in St. Louis with the title of “FANCY diving”.

A FANCY rat is the name for the domesticated rat you’d find in a common pet store. The larger and lazier males are the bucks and the smaller FEMALE rats are called does.

FEMALE blue whales are larger than the males of this species with hearts the size of cars. These mammals, larger today than their prehistoric ancestors, weigh in at three tons as newborns.

All art is conversation. CARTOON BAND is an open dialogue. Words and pictures puzzle as we pass the pen…this is idea intercourse.

15

Breaki n g theSilence

GLBT STUDENT GROUPS AT RIT

BY LAURA MANDANAS | WITH KELLY VOTOLATO CONTRIBUTING | PHOTOGRAPHS BY K. NICOLE MURTAGH

From their origins as a small, nameless group meeting in obscure rooms at ambiguous times for their own protection, gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (GLBT) student groups at RIT have undergone quite a change. No longer do membership rosters need to be kept under lock and key; with a community of 300 or more proud members, there’s no denying their presence on campus. ¶ Over the past three decades, GLBT student groups have experienced great growth. Last April 17, you may have noticed a few members of these groups wordlessly gathering in locations around campus, handing out informational cards.

Taking a day-long vow of silence, their actions were done in symbolic protest of the silencing of GLBT students and their supporters through bullying and harassment. ¶ Now, the time for silence is over.

Here is their story.

16

17

A SECRET SOCIETY

recalls, that file of involved students was liter-

Reporter, the former president of the InterVar-

ally kept under lock and key.

sity Christian Fellowship wrote, “In as far as the

Pr ior to the for mat ion of any for mal GLBT

Eventually, the group decided that they did

GLFSO intends to contribute to the moral de-

group on campus, there was a group of gay

not want to be a secret organization. Calling

generation of individuals and society as a whole

students that met privately. Mike D’Arcangelo,

themselves the Gay, Lesbians and Friends Stu-

by anesthetizing the consciences of gays and

director of the Center for Campus Life, describes,

dent Organization (GLFSO), the group went be-

encouraging homosexual lifestyles, I must voice

“They didn’t want to be recognized as a club be-

fore the Student Directorate board on October

my vigorous opposition. Jesus Christ provided

cause they were afraid at that point, in terms of

11, 1983, asking for recognition as a Class II club.

an alternative. Why not look into it?”

retaliation ... So the director at that time kept

Although an unusually large number of people

a listing of them privately and made room res-

attended the meeting to express their concern,

ervations for them so they would have a place

the board did not express any negative feedback.

to meet.” D’Arcangelo believes that the group

The proposal passed with only one abstention.

LIFE IN THE BRICK CLOSET Ignoring the harsh opposition, GLFSO continued

would probably convene in a small room at

In the weeks that followed, GLFSO’s recogni-

about 10 p.m. right before the buildings would

tion was a topic of hot debate within the student

their weekly meetings. The group discussed the difficulties of acceptance on conservative

close. “But because there were rosters that were

body. Many spoke out against their recogni-

campuses such as RIT and noted that it was

required then, just like they are now, students

tion, declaring homosexuality to be a sickness

primarily due to a lack of support, organization,

didn’t want to put their names down.” As he

and/or an immorality. In a letter to the editor of

and a fear of losing job and co-op opportunities.

The group concluded that the best way to ad-

munity to think about GLBT rights and to make

had five years to comply before facing suspen-

dress this would be to sponsor educational ac-

a conscious decision about the GLBT commu-

sion at RIT. (In the years that followed, however,

tivities that benefited the entire campus.

Despite their efforts, tensions on campus es-

nity: Either to wear jeans on that day in a show

RIT did not discontinue ROTC. The program is

of support for GLBT issues, or to not wear jeans,

alive and well today, as is the prohibitive policy.)

calated. AIDS was on the rise and — although

showing that they did not support GLBT issues.

Removing “gay,” “lesbian” and “bisexual” from

medical knowledge was limited — it was a well-

The group wanted to reveal to the campus that

the title, BIGALA was replaced by the Alterna-

known fact that the disease was most preva-

GLBT students do exist at RIT and that they are

tive Student Fellowship (ASF) in 1996. Although

lent among gay and bisexual men. With a full

not ashamed of who they are.

students noted that Rochester had a large

50 percent of all known AIDS cases located in

gay community, they often described RIT as

DON’T ASK, DON’T TELL

New York State as of 1983, fear of GLBT individuals was very high at RIT. Following a forum

“the brick closet.” Hoping to help others come out and to find acceptance at the institute, one of

on AIDS, an editorial piece in Reporter observed,

Facing continued prejudice and discrimina-

the big events that ASF promoted was National

“AIDS has brought homosexuality to the front

tion, BIGALA’s membership hovered around 30

Coming Out Day on October 11.

page, forcing society to acknowledge it.”

active student members for the next several

In 1989, GL FSO b e -

years. Members of t he

came the Bisexual, Gay

g roup worked with fac-

and Lesbian Association (BIGA L A). Facing more d iscr im inat ion t han ever, GLBT students reported both verbal and physical abuse from fellow students. As a group, BIGALA faced discriminat ion f rom t he fac-

How to be an ally

ulty and administration.

ult y and staff on R IT’s

GLBT AWARENESS D’Arcangelo recalls the stir on campus the first

Policy Council to include

National Coming Out Day created. It occurred

sexual orientation as a

right around open house days. Members of

protected item under the

ASF chalked slogans up and down the Quarter

school’s anti-discrimina-

Mile, creating much controversy. “People would

tion policy. In winter of

react to them ... People would bring out their

1994, the first ever Ally

own chalk and write comments — some which

We ek was held at R I T,

were supportive, some which were antagonis-

stressing a positive re-

tic, some which were phobic, some which were

lationship between het-

just questioning. It really became this whole

They found themselves

Don’t make assumptions about a

erosexuals and the GLBT

dialog ue.” After the week ended, however,

b ei ng ha s sle d a nd de -

person’s sexual orientation or gen-

community. Members of

campus-wide discussion of GLBT issues died

nied room reservations.

der identity.

PIERS (Peers Informing &

right back down again. Still, some impact must

On top of t hat, t hey

Speak out against all anti-gay

Educating RIT Students)

have been made; in the years immediately after

were ref used the r ight

jokes or statements. Even the

trained professors and

ASF began recognizing National Coming Out day,

to advertise their meet-

seemingly innocuous statement

certified their offices as

club membership grew to over 100 members.

ings in desig nated dis-

of “That’s so gay” is harmful.

play cases in the College

“safe zones” on campus,

Two years later, during Gay Awareness Week,

Avoid stereotyping and make it

places where GLBT stu-

the group (now calling themselves the RIT Gay

Alumni Union (now the

clear to others that stereotypes

dents can comfor tably

Alliance or RITGA) held a candlelight vigil for

Student A lumni Union

don’t represent the entire GLBT

talk about academic and

murder victim Matthew Shepard, a student

(S AU )), de spite la rg e

community.

social problems without

at the University of Wyoming who had been

portions of the display

Talk about GLBT issues and let

fear of discr im inat ion

targeted with hate crimes because he was gay.

cases being empty.

people know that you are in sup-

due to sexual orientation.

Despite bad weather conditions, students met

Dur ing t his t ime, a group of anonymous stu-

port of the GLBT community.

Use the words “gay” and “lesbian”

L at e r t h at y e a r, t h e

in front of the SAU to honor Shepard’s memory

government’s “Don’t Ask,

and raise awareness in the community about at-

dents formed an organi-

instead of “homosexual.” Most

Don’t Tell” policy came

tacks on the GLBT community. Three and a half

zation with the specific

gays and lesbians do not identify

under intense scrutiny at

hours after the ceremony ended, two students appeared on the evening news with disturbing

intent of targeting GLBT

with or use the word “homosexual”

RIT. The policy excluded

st udent s. The y ca l le d

to describe themselves.

openly gay, lesbian and

information: Following the ceremony, members

t hem selves St udent s

Keep an eye out for heterosexism

b i s e x u a l p e o pl e f r om

of the group received death threats. Some of the

Against Fags Everywhere

— the belief that heterosexuality is

ser ving in the militar y.

calls were from the dorms on campus.

(S A F E ). When BIG A L A

or should be the only acceptable

Finding it to be in viola-

sponsored “Jeans Day,”

sexual orientation — and point

t ion of R I T ’s a nt i- d i s-

SA FE ran a simult ane-

it out to others when you see it.

crimination policy, both

COMING OUT

ous counter-campaig n,

Many do not realize when they

Student Government (SG)

Making clear RIT’s zero tolerance policy towards

ripping down BIGALA’s

are being heterosexist.

and t he Fac u lt y Coun-

discrimination, 1999 was a turning point for di-

posters and replac-

Be aware of the word choices you

cil suppor ted a resolu-

versity. Despite the continued social activism of

ing them w ith g raphic,

are making and use inclusive lan-

tion that RIT notify the

student groups, D’Arcangelo notes that it was at

der og at or y p o st er s of

guage. Ask “Are you seeing some-

Department of Defense

this point that lasting progress really began to

t h e i r o w n . T h e e v e nt

one?” instead of “Do you have a

that the Reserve Officers

be made. Julie White, who was the director of

prompted the RIT com-

boyfriend?”

Training Cor ps (ROTC)

the Women’s Center, received a grant to pur-

19

sue her interest in gender issues. Discovering that the GLBT student population had very little

“out” has grown by leaps and bounds.

formalized, institutional support, she began to

Currently, RITGA has

reach out to them and created programs to ben-

o v er 3 0 0 memb er s on

efit the GLBT community. It was her initial pro-

their mailing list.

gram of exercises that has turned into today’s Safe Zone training.

In 2003, a climate study was conducted at RIT.

As more students have come out, GLBT issues have enjoyed higher vis-

More ways to be an ally

be open [to GLBT people], i t d o e s n’ t m e a n t h a t they’re educated about it.

That’s what we’re working on now.”

A GENERATION RAISED ON WILL AND GRACE

Even after all of the progress made, just under

ibility on campus than

half of the student population reported that the

e ver. C u r r ent ly, t her e

Educate yourself on GLBT issues

campus was “non-homophobic.” About a third

are three main organi-

and history. The GLBT center on

last 10 to 15 yea r s, I

of students had a neutral response. The remain-

zat ions t hat ser ve t he

campus is an excellent resource for

sense college students,

“My g uess i s t hat t he

ing one-fifth of the student body reported that

GLBT communit y: R I T-

educational material, gay publica-

especially, are more ac-

they felt the campus had homophobic tenden-

GA, OUTspoken, and the

tions and programs for allies.

cepting of these issues,”

cies. D’Arcangelo explains, “What it showed was

GLBT Center. Spectrum,

Don’t assume t hat a fr iend is

says D’Arcangelo. “I joke

that the climate towards gay, lesbian, bisexual

the Deaf GLBT stu-

sexually interested in you simply

t h at it ’s a g e ne r at ion

and transgender people and issues were at

dent organizat ion that

because they’ve disclosed their

that was raised on Will

the highest rate of phobia than all other areas.

for med several years

sexual orientation to you.

and Grace. There’s not the shock value anymore. It’s

More so than racism, more so than sexism,

ago f rom Deaf GLO,

When talking to GLBT people, be

more so than phobia of disabled people. So what

h a s d i s b a nde d a nd i s

respectful and use common sense.

just like, ‘Oh, yeah, that’s

that says to me is it’s either not on people’s ra-

c u r r e nt l y i n a p e r i o d

The same rules of polite conversa-

possible, that’s accept-

dar screens at all, or people are afraid to address

of reorganization.

tion apply. Asking someone about

able. I saw that on TV.’”

it, or there’s some real active stuff that goes on

David Yip, a fourth year

the gory details of their sex lives,

Much prog ress has

out there on a low level. It could be very subtle.”

Mechanical and Electri-

for example, is generally not appro-

been made over the past few decades.

Troubled by the results, RIT began to take a

cal Engineering student

priate in casual conversation.

closer look at the top three isolated populations:

and c u r rent president

Use pronouns that match a per-

Fo r m e r l y a d v e r s a r i a l

Women, Latino students, and GLBT students.

of R I T G A say s, “A l l of

son’s chosen gender — for exam-

g roups now show their

All three of these groups were given a represen-

t he organizat ions [t he

ple, if a male-born person identi-

suppor t for t he GLBT

tative on Student Government’s senate. Just this

GLBT Center, OUTspoken,

fies as female, refer to that person

community. For example,

past year, the GLBT senator position ended and

and R ITGA] tr y their

as “she.”

the InterVarsit y Chr is-

transitioned to representation through a Major

b est to work tog et her.

Treat partners of GLBT friends in

tian Fellowship partici-

Student Organization (MSO) called OUTspoken.

We have cer tain goals:

the same way that you would treat

pated in a lock-in with

a straight friend’s partner.

RITGA last quarter. Still,

In addition, a GLBT Center was established

Education, advocacy, and

in 2007. While the support available at the

— I g uess you can say,

not ever yone is as sup-

Women’s Center was a large step forward for

s o m e w h at — c e l e b r a -

portive. Two years ago,

the GLBT community, it still did not fully meet

tion.” As relatively new organizations, the three

in the weeks leading up to RITGA’s spring drag

their needs. Gay men in particular were unhap-

groups have a lot of work to do in establishing

show, someone defaced one of the posters

py with having to go to the Women’s Center to

their relationships with each other so that they

with an explicit comment. Yet upon noticing

have issues addressed. With the founding of the

won’t be continually stepping on each other’s

the comment, someone in the RIT communi-

center, GLBT students finally had a permanent

toes. In the past year, says Yip, each organiza-

ty — RITGA’s members still don’t know who —

place on RIT’s campus.

tion has chosen a unique foothold: The GLBT

immediately took action. They cut out the

Center focuses on education and support; OUT-

word and replaced that section of the poster.

spoken focuses on advocacy and awareness; and

They then reported the incident and a sample of

RITGA focuses on the social aspect and celebra-

the paint was taken. It ended up being matched

tion within the community.

to some spray paint used on rocks.

THE PIECES OF THE PUZZLE Cory Gregory, a third year Electrical Engineering major and current president of OUTspoken,

When Gregory first approached RITGA about

Yip says, “Just the fact that they went through

estimates the size of the GLBT population as fol-

creating an MSO, the group was somewhat op-

all this trouble and realizing that it was such a

lows, “Approximately 10 percent of people are

posed to the idea, fearful that it would split

big thing for our community was very impor-

GLB — not including the transgender — so at

the community into smaller groups. Now that

tant to us. The way that was handled and taken down really quickly, I think a lot of people just

RIT, that would be approximately 1,650 people

OUTspoken is established, however, the orga-

plus however many transgender students we

nizations work together and support each other.

saw that and were like ‘Oh, wow, it’s fine and

have on campus.” It’s difficult to track exactly

As an MSO, OUTspoken has access to a larger

cool to be around here’. I think we’ve always

how many GLBT students there actually are but

budget and is better able to reach the RIT com-

been supportive, it’s just showing more now.”

he notes that the number of students who are

munity. He notes, “Even though people might

20

Jack Gold, a third year Graphic Design major

and female to male (FTM) transgendered mem-

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

ber of RITGA, shares, “There’s kind of the little

and housing arrangements on campus, and, in general, a greater amount of awareness and

things — people throwing around “gay” as an

D’Arcangelo, Yip, Gregory and Gold all agree

insult or whatever — but nothing personal.”

that there is much room for growth and im-

education regarding GLBT issues.

As a final note, Yip adds, “I think it’s impor-

People sometimes have difficulty remember-

provement in the years to come. Top items on

tant to know that we, like everybody else, are

ing which pronouns to use when referring to

their wish lists include: Mandatory safe zone

just people. We have the same desires and

him, but, in general, he has found RIT to be a

training for all employees, a top-down state-

have the same rights and have the same feel-

very supportive environment. In the future, he

ment of intent to specifically serve the GLBT

ings. Like any other group that has rallied and

would like to see greater awareness and edu-

population at RIT, a set of programs targeted to

come together for their rights — women, Afri-

cation about transgendered people. Explains

serve students who are not yet out and don’t feel

can Americans, Asians — I think that recently

Gold, “Thing is, GLB are all sexual orientations;

comfortable going to the GLBT Center, greater

it’s just become our time to shine and kind of be

transgender is a gender identity. So you can be

participation from GLBT students in the three

in the light. We are definitely open to helping,

transgendered and straight; you can be trans-

student organizations, the inclusion of “trans-

to educate, and sharing our community with

gendered and gay; you can be transgendered

gender” options on official RIT forms, optional

anyone that’s interested to learn.” •

and bi. We tend to get lumped together because

consideration of sexual orientation by RIT when

we all sort of transgressed a gender boundary

roommates are assigned for on-campus housing,

in one way or another. But it’s not the same.”

the addition of more gender neutral bathrooms

RIT/GALLAUDET SPORTS WEEKEND 2009

Imagine a daylong competition where 36 different sports are played, all of this an accumulation of more than thirty years of rivalry. This is RIT/Gallaudet Sports Weekend 2009. This weekend, hosted by RIT, is an annual, long-standing tradition in which RIT and Gallaudet University engage. Both universities alternate hosting the competition and, this year,

IT’S OUR TURF.

23

teammates. D ur ing t he second half, Gallaudet fell apart as they st r ug g led to make a goal. Toby F it c h , a f i r s t y e a r N e w M e d i a D e s i g n m aj o r a n d g o a l k e e p e r, made some great saves, giving RIT a shutout game w it h 4 - 0 as t he final score.

eSPORTS You heard r ig ht. eSpor t s. What took mainstream culture so long to adopt, took less time for RIT and Gallaudet to add to the list of competitions. This competition was split into two parts: Madden NFL 09 and Halo 3. There was a large crowd watching the Madden match.

It turned out to be a heated match as the score on either side kept creeping up. It all cumulated into one final play that had the whole audience sitting forward in their seats. When Gallaudet “pressed t he w rong but ton” and allowed RIT to score, the fans went wild.

Josh Weinstock, a first year Deaf Studies and Communication dual m aj o r at G a l l au d e t , c o n c e d e d ,

THE weekend started off properly with a pep

after the tournament — which lasted from 10

rally that was held on Friday, April 17. Fans and

a.m. to 8:30 p.m. the next day — that a victor

[his opponent] good, we both put in great effort

athletes all gathered at the Gordon Field House

would emerge.

and had a great game.”

MEN’S SOCCER

in order to compete in Halo 3, each team

competition is something that both universities

During the first minutes of the soccer match,

had to bring four players. Gallaudet only

look forward to all year.

Gallaudet certainly put the pressure on our

had three show up and had to concede

to cheer and heckle each other. All of it was played in good sport, acknowledging that this

“It was a great game, I just had a bad start. Tim’s

A disappointment for this event was that,

Ja s on S c hw e bk e, a t h i r d y e a r I n for m a-

team. The ball spent the most time deep in

the game to RIT. However, this did not

tion Technolog y major, said, “It’s my third

the RIT side of the field. However, this was a

stop everyone from being good sports.

time attending the RIT/Gallaudet weekend.

guise, as RIT quickly took control with some

Neil DuPaul, a RIT alumni, played in the

It’s changed; the pep rally is now in the Field

excellent passing and scored the f irst goal,

remaining spot on the Gallaudet team

House instead of the Clark Gym, I like it. The

starting the day well. It wasn’t even six minutes

and both teams held an informal match.

weather’s been good for this particular week-

when RIT scored another goal. This was due to

True to its gaming reputation, RIT swept

end; we definitely get lucky every [other] year.

the great passes made between each player.

the virtual floor with Gallaudet.

I just hope that nobody gets in trouble, because

Gallaudet made a lot of steals, but would often

last year, we lost [the competition] on a techni-

lose the ball to bad passes. Just before the first

cality. So, I’m expecting another close one.”

half ended, Gallaudet became visibly frustrated

Not muc h w a s e x p e c t e d f r om t h i s

with the lack of goals.

sport. As it was relatively new to the

“I just want to have fun, play hard. I’m look-

COED WATER POLO

ing forward to some hot competition and to

“I’m very proud of our guys. We did great in

just enjoy myself,” said Liz Jarashow, a first

the first half. I want to see more of the same

competition, there hadn’t been much at tent ion for t h is par t icular match.

year Undeclared major transfer student at

stuff. We’re going to take back what’s rightfully

Anyone who decided to skip this sport would be missing out on a heated match.

Gallaudet from RIT and the individual sports

ours. We have good control, good support, and

chairperson. When asked to predict the winner,

good communication,” said Gabi Nocciolino,

Gallaudet scored t he f irst goal ver y

“I’m not sure, we’ll see about that tomorrow!”

a fourth year ASL/English Interpretation major

quickly, catching RIT off guard. To make

exclaimed Jarashow.

Once everyone was fired up, the pep rally left

and coach of the RIT men’s soccer team. The

matters worse, Gallaudet scored the

players on the sidelines were noticeably relaxed,

second goal. Not one to be intimidated,

every contender anxious to declare themselves

as they were casually conversing with each

RIT got its groove back and made some

the victors of the weekend. It would not be until

ot her and occasiona l ly cheer i ng on t hei r

goals, bringing the scores head to head

24 Sports | 04.24.09

for the rest of the game. An impressive play was

It’s better than coming when there’s nothing

made by RIT when a player got the ball, spun

to do. It’s a great weekend to go to RIT, espe-

instead of on the other side. RIT started to slow-

around, and made a score with a throw from

cially when your daughter’s competing, it takes

ly catch up. Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough to

behind his back. The fans definitely went wild

me back to her high school days,” added Cyd

win and we lost by a few points.

with this play.

Lindeman. Cyd also noted, “It’s great because

The final match was by far the most com-

we’re not exposed to Deaf culture very much.

petitive and emotional match of the three.

minute of the game with the score tied at 12-

Going to the pep rally, seeing everyone get ex-

You could clearly see RIT’s passion to win. Not

12, the coach of RIT’s team joined play. Gallau-

cited, it’s really cool.”

only that, the fans started to stand up, anxious

Things became intense when, in the last

det objected to this and confronted the referee,

more turnovers. The spikes ended up in the net

for their teams. RIT continued to make some

interrupting gameplay. The argument escalated

MEN’S VOLLEYBALL

when a RIT player splashed the objecting per-

The men’s volleyball game turned out to be one

some great sets and spikes, ones that Gallaudet

turnovers, but Gallaudet did as well. RIT made

son, and more people quickly gathered as the

of the most lively games of the day. On Gallau-

players couldn’t reach in time, sending RIT fans

argument continued to escalate. Things got

det’s team, half of the players grew up together

in a frenzy. RIT ultimately won 15 to 13.

tenser when a fan from the Gallaudet side of the

and played volleyball together. While on RIT’s

While R I T was celebrat ing t heir v ictor y,

stands threw something into the pool. An offi-

team, two were on the Deaf Olympics team and

Gallaudet grumbled but showed good sport.

cial showed up and calmed things down, having

the rest have practiced together for a while.

They knew it was a good game and we did too.

everyone come to an agreement that the argu-

Traditionally, Gallaudet has also always been

ment would be settled after the match played

dominant in winning the men’s volleyball—

itself out. Unfortunately, Gallaudet scored a goal

and in the first match, they were determined to

Results would not be announced until the party,

with 30 seconds left on the clock. RIT attempted

keep the bragging rights. Everyone anticipated

which took place at RIT and was called Brickfest

to make one, but had the ball stolen and stalled

an animate competition.

(when hosted at Gallaudet, the party is called

until the clock ran out of time.

THE CUMULATION OF THE WEEKEND

Each player put all out, showing no mercy to

Rockfest). There, it became evident to everyone

Sitting amongst the large turnout for the wa-

the ball. Practically each spike sounded like

that RIT was the victor of this year’s competi-

ter polo game were some people unquestion-

a gunshot, traveling at such a speed that the

tion, snagging 222 points to Gallaudet’s 165.

ably older than the average college student.

player on the other side didn’t have time to

We won what was stolen from us the previous year, with the hope that, next year, we will take

It turns out that they were actually parents,

blink. RIT, however, proved to be a worthwhile

who made the journey from Atlantic, Iowa, to

opponent and was always a few points ahead or

the trophy back home as well •

watch their daughter, Molly Lindeman, a fourth

behind Gallaudet. RIT won the first match, 27 to

by David Spiecker

year Business Administration major, compete in

25, and the Bison became more determined to

with Derrick Behm contributing

the weekend. “It’s been a lot of fun!” said Fred

defeat the Tigers.

Lindeman. “It’s a good time to come [to RIT].

In the second match, RIT panicked as Gallau-

There’s so much to do, so many things to see.

det picked up an early lead. This led RIT to make

photographs by David Spiecker and Eric Drummond

1. The women flag football team huddles up during a timeout.

Photograph by David Spiecker.

2. Volunteers from the audience try to fire up the crowd during the pep rally. Photograph

by David Spiecker.

3. The water polo teams practice before the game. Photograph by Eric Drummond.

Log on to http:// reportermag.com for a complete list of scores.

25

beyond

BELIEF

26 Views | 04.24.09

as

we become more connected

in the Internet Age, talk gets cheaper, and we see the lines

of the senator’s decision-making

of gay marriage? Are there

process. Simply, McKinley did not

contradictions that emerge when

that we make to an institution

examining one’s understanding of

so traditionally rich as marriage

a functioning of society?

are complex. The cultural

“think,” he “believed.”

The subconscious attachments

dissolve between intelligent

Belief implies a whole set of

discourse and one-sided

unknowns, delving into realms

pandering. A topic such as the

of ethics and morality that are

unsure of what the implications

part of our self-image

changing of the traditional

based upon a wide variety of

would be if gay marriage were

and identity.

definition of marriage is worth

sources, including religious

legalized. Arguments in this

As symbol-oriented people,

more than just a meaningless

texts and cultural values. For the

vein include concerns about

the changing of an institution

sentiment or a flippant remark.

average person who “believes”

homosexuals’ ability to parent

such as marriage certainly

I want to use this opportunity to

something, the best method to

effectively. Others maintain that

threatens our traditional identity.

encourage one’s own

get him or her to start thinking

legalizing gay marriage would

When our identity is disturbed,

critical thinking.

again is to ask questions. The

start a slippery slope towards the

or is in danger, the natural

following questions are important

deterioration of marriage. If it was

reaction is to spring into arms

to ask for those who believe that

proved that homosexuals could

without acknowledging the complexities of the issue.

On April 3, 2009, the Iowa Supreme Court confirmed that:

Many people are simply

associations we attach make a

“Couples ... may not be denied

marriage should only be between

not create a loving household,

licenses to marry or certificates

one man and one woman: What is

then this could have disastrous

of marriage or in any other way

the historical basis of a religious

implications for the country.

and our country has always stood behind the rights of

Free will is a powerful thing

prevented from entering into a

condemnation of gay marriage?

A generation of young people

civil marriage ... by reason of the

Are there contradictions that

could grow up in a fractured

the individual. Even the first

fact that both persons comprising

emerge when interpreting Bible

environment — damaged

amendment spells out that

such a couple are of the

passages literally?

emotionally, mentally and

Congress shall make no law

physically. This could potentially

concerning the “sanctity” of something, no matter

same sex.”

The ruling was also significant

Specifically, the Jews of the Old Testament era viewed

damage the proper functioning of

because it was an unanimous

homosexuality as a sin because

a democracy or, even worse,

how hard people try for a

7-0 decision coming from a state

it did not result in procreation,

the consumer capitalist economy!

constitutional ban.

supreme court that is located

which was necessary to spread

in the heart of the country, a

the faith. Many people quote one

But no such proof exists.

As our generation faces

There has yet to be a long-

the problems started by our

true “red” state. In response, Paul

translation of Leviticus 18:22,

term study concluding that

grandparents and parents,

McKinley, a leading Republican

which states: “Do not lie with a

homosexuals are any worse

we have come to understand that

in the Iowa Senate, issued a

man as one lies with a woman;

parents than heterosexuals.

it is not always the best policy to

statement: “I believe marriage

that is detestable.” But if we

To say so one way or another is

follow the rules they have laid

should only be between one

are to quote another chapter in

relying on a belief rather

before us without question.

man and one woman and I am

Leviticus, specifically 11:12,

than fact.

One could say that this is why we

confident the majority of Iowans want traditional marriage to be

we see a strange inclusion: “Anything living in the water that

But why do people believe

have an enormous national debt

these things? Why are some

and an unprecedented amount of environmental concerns.

legally recognized in

does not have fins and scales is

uncomfortable with the idea of

this state.”

to be detestable to you.” So by

two people of the same gender

Hopefully, we can look at

this logic, eating shellfish is as

marrying? The answer may lie in

questions of “tradition”

Allow me to dissect this statement as the typical structure

sinful as two people of the same

our unconscious, in our natural

more rationally and spend time

of an argument against the

sex having intercourse. This is

human tendency to use symbols

with other, more serious issues. •

legalization of gay marriage.

just one example of how religious

as a way of simplifying complex

Senator McKinley began with,

texts were used to protect their

subjects. For many, marriage

“I believe,” rather than “I think.”

While this may seem like a difference in semantics, this is actually a significant identifier

small tribes of followers in

means much more than a simple

by Michael Conti

uncertain times.

legal union. It means the white

illustration by Joanna Eberts

picket fence, the family of four,

The opinions expressed in the Views

even the security of the hearth.

section are soley those of the author.

What is the contemporary basis of fear-based condemnations

27

29

“AS LONG AS THEY LOVE EACH OTHER, I DON’T THINK IT SHOULD BE AN ISSUE.” Shawn Gaskill First year Engineering

“I’M NOT REALLY A RELIGIOUS PERSON, BUT I THINK WE DESERVE THE SAME RIGHTS AS EVERYONE ELSE. I COULD CARE LESS WHAT THEY CALL IT, WHETHER MARRIAGE OR CIVIL UNION.”

Steven Deridder First year Photojournalism

“EVERYBODY DESERVES SOME LOVIN’.”

“EVERY PERSON IN THIS COUNTRY DESERVES EQUAL RIGHTS, AND IN THIS DAY AND AGE GAYS ARE GROUP WITH THE MOST DISCRIMINATION. LEGALIZE GAY MARRIAGE OR BAN ALL MARRIAGE, IT’S ONLY RIGHT.”

Phil Amsler Second year Mechanical Engineering

“IT DOESN’T BOTHER ME, IF PEOPLE ARE IN LOVE THAN THAT’S COOL!”

Kevin Graham First year Psychology

Erin Horstman Second year Biomedical Science

“SO MUCH MORE MONEY WOULD BE PUT INTO THE ECONOMY BECAUSE OF ALL THE TAXING ON GAY MARRIAGES. THAT’S MORE MONEY THAT CAN HELP! BESIDES, GAY PEOPLE MAKE EVERYTHING FABULOUS. LET US GET WHAT WE DESERVE.”

“I’M ALL FOR IT. WAY TO GO!” Kerstin Jakiela First year Visual Media

Michael Mendoza First year ASL/English Interpretation

“IF ALL THE GAY PEOPLE WANT TO GET MARRIED THEN THEY CAN START THEIR OWN GAY COUNTRY AND GET MARRIED THERE.”

“NELSON, YOU’RE AN ASSHOLE.” Will Shorrock First year Computer Science

Ryan Nelson Second year Photography

“I THINK THAT UNTIL THERE IS A CLEAR DEFINITION OF WHAT MARRIAGE/LOVE IS, I DON’T THINK WE SHOULD JUDGE.” Stephen Patterson First year Undecided

photographs by Robert Carr

30 Views | 04.24.09

“TO EACH HIS/HER OWN. EVERYONE DESERVES EQUAL RIGHTS.” Chris Josefson First year Packaging Science

RIT RINGS 585.672.4840 compiled by Neil DeMoney All messages subject to editing and truncation. Not all messages will be run.

Reporter reserves the right to publish all messages in any format.

FRIDAY, 2:39 A.M.

MONDAY, 2:24 P.M.

FRIDAY, 11:22 P.M.

Rings, I found Margaret Thatcher’s facebook.

Not only is she all boobs and no brain, but she also smokes enough weed to embarrass Kurt Cobain. I’m completely turned off.

Hey Rings, I got three phone numbers from girls last night. On a Wednesday night!

How is that for a RIT student?

SATURDAY, 5:22 P.M.

MONDAY, 1:06 A.M.

I WENT TO MY DRUG TEST, HIGH AND DRUNK FML!

Peace be with youuuuuu!!!

THE WEATHERMAN DESCRIBED THE FORECAST LAST NIGHT AS STARLIT AND CHILLY. WHAT EXACTLY DOES STARLIT MEAN AS IT RELATES TO THE WEATHER?

submitted via text

submitted via text

submitted via phone

submitted via phone

submitted via text

MONDAY, 2:24 P.M.

We’re on the quarter mile handing out oranges, saying that it will prevent scurvy. However, it seems that everyone wants scurvy because no one is taking the oranges. So yeah, do something about that.

WEDNESDAY 8:47 P.M.

So, I’m walking outside on my way to Sol’s with some people and we overhear a group of guys, and one of them just says, “No, you cannot buttsex someone.” submitted via text

submitted via phone

TUESDAY, 12:02 P.M. Hey, Rings! I had the most terrible night ever. I didn’t know my roommate was gay all this time. Tonight, I opened the door and saw him [fudging] with another boy. Sicko! submitted via text

FRIDAY, 3:36 A.M.

Hey Rings, I am totally [crunk] faced here in Riverknoll, drinking Red Bull, just to [jump] a girl I met at a party to stay awake. Just to let you know. Peace!

SUNDAY, 11:27 P.M.

Do you think if I smoke my 80-year-old data analysis teacher up during class break, he would be chill enough to give me exam answers? submitted via text

submitted via phone

31

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