How vodka Affects the russian lifestyle
Taylor Lusardi scores playoff gamewinner
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Vol. XXXIX, No. 12
November 20, 2013
Serving The College of New Jersey community since 1885
College’s ‘Cabaret’ Political apathy is apparent Taboo in a musical By Shayna Innocenti Arts & Entertainment Assistant
Moral, ethical and sexual boundaries were pushed this past week as the student-run organization TCNJ Musical Theatre (TMT) performed the renowned and scandalous musical “Cabaret.” “Cabaret” was based off of a book written by Joe Masteroff and first appeared on stage in 1966. The production has won a Tony Award for best musical, and the movie, starring Liza Minnelli, even won an Oscar. The show takes place in an abandoned boarding house in Berlin, Germany, just as the Nazi party is coming into power in the 1930s. The struggle and sadness during
this terrible time in history was only a small fraction of the complicated emotions that encircled the characters of this musical. Even though the setting was at the dawn of the Holocaust, many of the overarching troubles that the “Cabaret” characters faced are still relevant to today. This musical revealed the harsh realities of discrimination against race, ethnicity and sexual orientation and dealt with the social constructs of poverty, unemployment, prostitution, pregnancy and conflicting politics. The play opened up with a barechested figure hanging from a noose. The scene then quickly dissolved into the memories of the figure, the Emcee, see CABARET page 11
Julie Kayzerman / Nation & World Editor
The ‘Cabaret’ cast executes a provocative display of talent.
Julie Kayzerman / Nation & World Editor
Some campus leaders get involved at Governor Christie’s speech in October.
By Tom Kozlowski Arts & Entertainment Editor
The buzzword to describe students of the 21st century has been “apathetic.” The word, serving as a reaction to the alleged lack of political and social activity among young adults, is loaded with comparisons: how the era of unbridled political activism in the 1960s is long gone, and how students today have shied away from investing their interests in notable causes. Students at the College face a similar allegation. While the campus has common political structures from political party groups to politics fora, many hold fast to the perception that the student body is uninvolved in the political process. “Many of TCNJ’s students
are politically apathetic … As citizens, we are very removed from any direct participation in the national political scene,” sophomore political science major Brendan Neal said. The conception is not misplaced. College students statistically tend to be “the least politically active citizens,” according to political science professor Brian Potter. Many lack the time or resources to engage in the political process, let alone deeply understand any relevant national issues. “(Students) are torn in different directions politically and have different impulses. It’s hard to motivate the populace in general,” Potter said. Hypothetically, campus organizations are supposed to mobilize students for particular causes. The College has many,
including the College Democrats, College Republicans and Amnesty International. But even these groups have stepped back from the public eye, becoming less active in spite of increasingly heated national debates. “Political clubs vary in activity year to year, depending on how effective the new leadership is and how active the members want to be. For some reason, it’s been quiet — I wish the Republicans and Democrats were more effective this year,” Potter said. When asked about their involvement and how they motivate students to participate, all three clubs could not be reached. So, student apathy appears visually prevalent. But taking an accurate measure of that observation is difficult. see POLITICAL page 3
Working, studying and living as a student How extracurriculars factor into busy schedules
By Mike Herold Staff Writer Just as integral to collegiate life are the things done with spare time — specifically, the organizations to join as a student. But the impact these organizations have on involvement and personal development are at bay. “As a general theory, what we know is that students who are involved on campus tend to have better grades,” said manager of the Brower Student Center Seth Zolin. “The connection to the College is better, they feel more included, and as a member of the community they want to perform better. Because they have demands on their time, involved students are forced to structure their schedules.” Last semester, Zolin conducted a survey of the campus to find out just how involved students are at the College. According to the 651 responses, 89.77 percent of students are involved in at least one on-campus organization, with the average involved student taking part in approximately two organizations.
INDEX: Nation & World / Page 5 The Signal @TCNJsignal
Courtney Wirths / Photo Editor
There are a myriad of campus organizations to get involved in.
“I feel like being involved helps a lot, because it makes me organize my schedule and time manage better,” said Samantha Swartz, a senior interactive multimedia major, Ambassador and member of the Trentones. “Although sometimes it can be stressful, I’d say
Editorial / Page 7
Opinions / Page 9
that about 30 percent of the time it’s crunch time, when it feels like I need to stop doing so many things.” Alexander Astin’s Developmental Theory for Higher
Arts & Entertainment / Page 11
see CLUBS page 4 Features / Page 15
Sports / Page 24
‘12 years a slave’ Racial movie proves to be inspiring watch
Dining out professionally Students learn dining etiquette
A trip around the world International food festival
See A&E page 13
See News page 3
See Features page 17
page 2 The Signal November 20, 2013
Vodka has enormous effect on Russian life By Noor Azeem Correspondent The role of alcohol in shaping Russia into the country it is today was discussed during a presentation at the College on Tuesday, Nov. 12. “(Vodka’s) like beer goggles for Russian history,” Mark Lawrence Schrad said as he introduced his topic. Schrad, who earned his Ph.D. in political science from the University of Wisconsin, used his second book as the basis for his discussion as he dived into a chapter-by-chapter discussion of “Vodka Politics: Alcohol, Autocracy, and the Secret History of the Russian State.” However, instead of making things blurry, exploring the politics of this hard liquor brings the past into a clear view. Schrad took the “drunken-
Russian” stereotype and analyzed it to the core. “Behind a lot of stereotypes, there is a little bit of truth,” he told the audience, adding that the average Russian drinker drinks about two bottles of vodka and 13 beers a week. But alcohol, as the largest contributor to Russian mortality — causing about 500,000 deaths per year — ties deeply into Russian history. Schrad explained this by going back to the rule of Stalin, who deceivingly got his peers constantly and completely drunk in order to inhibit them. “They weren’t drinking because they wanted to drink,” Schrad said. “They were part of a system that forced them to drink.” In his search for the origins of a cultural norm, Schrad discovered a myriad of connections
between alcoholism and Russian history. His observations sparked a fast-paced lecture, with a lively question and answer session to follow. “It was a lot more interesting than I thought it would be, and I thought he kept it really understandable for people who might not have as much knowledge on the subject as others,” freshman accounting major Anna Lin said. “I liked that he discovered all of these different effects of alcohol based on a stereotype most people don’t pay attention to,” freshman open options major Emily Maragni said. “It was different from most political discussions, in a good way.” Schrad’s lecture was well received and may even have created some potential readers of his soon-to-be-published book.
Courtney Wirths / Photo Editor
Schrad enlightens on how important vodka is to Russia.
Understanding inequality between incomes
By Julia Livesey Correspondent
After viewing Robert Reich’s documentary, “Inequality for All,” students examined why America has a great inequality of wealth when it comes to hard-earned incomes. In the documentary, Reich pointed out several staggering facts about the country’s plummeting economy and the reasons why most Americans are uninformed. He explained how he believes the rich are too rich and make too much but don’t spend it — they either save it or invest it in hedge funds. Over the years, the ratio of working people’s incomes compared to that of a CEOs has risen drastically. The richest CEOs make over $3 million an hour, while the poorest American will make just $2.13 per hour, according to Reich.
Some CEOs even raised their salaries when their companies were laying off workers and deducting wages. With a CEO salary, a single top income could buy a house for every homeless person in the United States, Reich said. Not only that, but CEOs are minimally taxed and are non-job creators. In the documentary, Reich also addressed the faltering correlation between wages and productivity. Throughout the 20th century, the ratio of productivity to wages rose together until the 1970s, when productivity continued to escalate but wages stagnated. With the rising costs of housing, healthcare and college tuition, many middleclass Americans are struggling to compensate for these increasing prices. Of the people Reich interviewed in his film, most were either unemployed or made minimum wage working 70
hours a week and had a family of four to support. Others had less than $100 in their bank accounts on any given day. Reich explained that when buying something such as an iPhone, 34 percent of the money spent on the phone will go to Japan, whereas only 6 percent actually stays in the United States. The rest goes to other countries, such as China and Germany, where parts for the phone were made. Because most people are unaware of where their money goes, it easily ends up in the pockets of the CEOs, creating a massive gap between salaries of top executives and the manufacturers. In a discussion panel following the film, associate professor of sociology Rebecca Li said the main theme the documentary focused on was the attempt to change the distribution of wealth. She said that the wealthy are going to continue to take more of the middle class’s
money if nothing is done about it. “We are allowing it,” Li said. On the other hand, senior economics major Aleksandr Nozhnitskiy vindicated the elite in corporations. “It’s not all bad in the private sector,” Nozhnitskiy said. Associate professor of economics Michele Naples argued that the film failed to mention that the economy is driven by profitability, as it plays an essential part in the nation’s financial stability. Additionally, Karina Lopez, a Bonner Center staff member and philosophy graduate student, suggested that there’s a lot of grass root changes that could occur, which would be effective and beneficial for the withering economy. “We have the ability to change things,” Lopez said. “It’s completely possible. We have the capacity now more than ever.”
SG looks to hold tardiness accountable By Annabel Lau News Assistant
The Student Government passed a bill on Wednesday, Nov. 13 that would hold SG members accountable for unex-
cused absences and late arrivals to meetings. “We have noticed that there have been some issues this semester with people showing up late to general body (meetings),” vice president of
SG works on creating a scholarship.
Courtney Wirths / Photo Editor
Governmental Affairs Alex Brown said. “We wanted to hold people accountable for that.” Members are currently penalized for absences and late arrivals according to a point system. The attendance bill increases the number of points assigned for unexcused absences and late arrivals to a variety of mandatory SG meetings. “In the last attendance bill, internal committee was assigned two points per absence,” Brown said. “We bumped that up to four points.” If a member is unable to attend a meeting, he or she must notify the speaker and vice president of the committee 24 hours in advance. Members will also be assigned two points if they are ten to 20 minutes late to a meeting. If they are more than 20 minutes late, they will be considered absent, Brown said. SG will also participate in an attempt to raise funds for a Student Government scholarship. “That’s something we can award to either one or two general body members for their dedication to the organization,” SG President Tyler Liberty said. “So
we’re slowly trying to fundraise for that. It’d be a really good way to sort of put out a scholarship in our name.” Two representatives from the Division of College Advancement, Christen Jones, major gifts officer, and Donna Green, director of annual giving, will be leading the initiative, which involves asking for donations from alumni, particularly those who had participated in SG. The goal is $25,000, but the actual amount could be much more than that. “We have a trustee who is interested in matching, dollar for dollar, up to $25,000, whatever we could raise,” Jones said. “So that means that if we raise $25,000, that he will match that, and it’d be $50,000.” Sadia Tahir, vice president of Equity and Diversity, announced the completion of the first issue of Diversity University, a newsletter that serves as a creative and informational outlet for different cultural, ethnic, religious and sexual orientation groups on campus. The newsletters can
be found in academic buildings and residence halls. Tahir recognized the members of Equity and Diversity who worked on the issue and asked for constructive criticism from SG. “This is the first issue of anything of this manner out since 1855, since like the College was founded,” Tahir said. “This is really great, so I just want to make sure it’s perfect.” Associate vice president for Student Affairs and Adviser of SG Magda Manetas announced a meeting on Friday, Nov. 15 to discuss the fate of the annual College tradition, “LollaNoBooza.” “LollaNoBooza” did not take place last August but was a program on the night of the first day of classes that involved a night of alcohol-free activities, games and entertainment. “We lost the grant funding that used to fund that program and were unable to move to another strategy,” Manetas said. “We’re going to look at what is the value of this program to us, and a decision as to whether to try to continue the program or not, and then what will our strategy be to fund it.”
November 20, 2013 The Signal page 3
Festival is funded Chinese dairy in demand Drones used commercially
By Julie Kayzerman Nation & World Editor
A CUB tradition, the annual Welcome Back Lecture was funded by the Student Finance Board for $14,915 during its weekly meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 13. Options for the lecture include Ross Matthews, American television personality; Carly, Chris and Jessimae, personalities from Guy Code/Girl Code; Rob Delaney, comedian; and Justin Willman, host of Cupcake Wars and Halloween Wars. Chabad also presented to SFB again for its Chanukah Festival and received $4,794.90 in funding. After being tabled last week due to requests for unnecessary expenses that didn’t relate to the theme of the event, Chabad came back with new plans. In an effort to celebrate and learn about the Jewish holiday
of Chanukah, Chabad will be providing menorah kits, holiday crafts, air brush T-shirts and traditional food. In addition, they will have five actors from Comedy-Sportz Entertainment. The event will take place in the Brower Student Center on Monday, Dec. 2 at 5:30 p.m. SFB also allocated $4,000 to INK for their Master Series to present A.M. Homes. This series will provide an opportunity for creative writers and readers to meet author, journalist and television writer A.M. Homes. The official date has not yet been set, but the event is scheduled to take place during the week of February 24 in the Library Auditorium. Finally, the Class of 2014 was funded for $300 to host a Real Life Cooking Series called “Holiday Treats.”
By Courtney Wirths Photo Editor
• China’s thirst for dairy is increasing dramatically and so are imports of milk and dairy-based products such as cheese and yogurt. Consumption of dairy products in China is expected to rise 20 percent over the next four years, according to the Financial Times. • Berkhire Hathaway Inc., the company of Warren Buffett, took a $3.7 billion stake in the world’s largest oil company, Exxon Mobile Corp. The oil giant is one of the most efficient discoverers of oil in the world and largely considered an undervalued stock by analysts, according to Bloomberg. • Wal-Mart Stores Inc. reported poor quarterly sales for the third straight quarter last week. The slow buying in the retail giant is an indication of trouble for the holiday season, according to the Wall Street Journal. • Jeff King, a professional caddy for pro golf
tournaments, started a beef jerky company with his own recipe and a loyal customer base, which includes Tiger Woods. The successful startup is now distributing its jerky in retail stores, according to Bloomberg. • Sixty percent of New Jersey businesses say they plan to hire in 2014, and 80 percent of businesses say that they feel optimistic about the economy in 2014, according to a survey by Provident Bank. • Snapchat, the popular photomessaging app, rejected a $3 billion cash acquisition offer from Facebook. The small company hopes to spend at least the next year gaining new users and a larger valuation, according to the Wall Street Journal. • Unmanned aircrafts, called drones, had been used primarily by the military. Now, however, Americans can expect commercial drones to be hitting the sky and being used for mapping, surveying agricultural fields and even studying marine mammals, according to Bloomberg.
Learning how to develop good dining habits By Gabrielle Beacken News Assistant
The second annual “Dining Out in Professional Style” event was held last Wednesday, Nov. 13, featuring renowned business etiquette expert Robert A. Shutt and sponsored by the Career Center. “This is important because it eliminates distraction of inappropriate behavior,” Shutt said regarding professional dining etiquette. People may not notice appropriate behavior much, but they certainly realize when inappropriate behavior is being conducted, according to Shutt. With over 200 students in attendance, each one of the 31 round tables was filled with students and one employer. These employers were representatives of companies such as Johnson & Johnson, Mondelēz International and New Jersey State Nursing Association. “As professionals, I think we were expected to know a lot about this,” said Bernie Nicholas, an employer representing Mondelēz International. “But I certainly learned a lot.” Both Nicholas and his co-representative, Larry Osman, expressed the significant value students are receiving from this presentation.
The point of mixing students and employers was to make connections and relationships. “Shake the hand of someone who could potentially change your life forever,” Shutt said. “Work the room.” The purpose of the event, Shutt said, was to create new relationships and strengthen existing ones. Shutt has traveled throughout the United States, teaching adults and students the proper etiquette of professional dining. Shutt began by explaining the different focuses between business etiquette and social etiquette. The social focus was to have “good times and good foods.” “Comradery and cuisine,” Shutt said. “A business meal may have an impact on your future.” Etiquette dining dates back to the years of George Washington, when he created the “102 Rules of Civility.” Shutt emphasized two rules from Washington’s list: one, sit not when others stand, and, two, sleep not when others speak. Shutt revised the latter to “sleep not, text not, Blackberry not.” “Business evaluation starts 15 minutes before you think it’s going to occur,” Shutt said.
In professional business dining, one follows the leader of the group. Shutt then explained the controversial debate over the styles of eating with a fork and knife. There is the American Style, the knife in the dominant hand, fork in other, and when eating the food one switches the fork in the other hand. Then there is the Continental Style, which requires no switch of the hand. Knives should always be placed with the sharp side facing away from guests at the table. “(Otherwise), it is too aggressive,” Shutt said. Even advice on how to stop the flow of a spilt drink was given during the event. “I learned little things about etiquette,” freshman communication studies major Megan Strucko said. The one who organizes the meal pays, said Shutt. “When done, say ‘thank you’ times two,” Shutt said. “One for the conversation and one for the meal.” Retention increases 500 percent when a letter is in one’s hand, not just electronically. Therefore, Shutt suggests the best way to say “thank you” is a good old-fashioned handwritten letter.
Courtney Wirths / Photo Editor
Students learn dining etiquette.
“This is a wonderful program and it is a privilege to be here with you all,” Shutt said. When he was later asked if he wished to make a final comment, he said with a smile and index finger pointed, “Manner matters and courtesy counts.”
Political / Inactivity on campus cause for concern continued from page 1 The term can be inflated by students who feel disillusioned by their peers or political movements in general. Moreover, a variety of variables exist, influencing student involvement or a lack thereof. Framing a particular facet of political activity can shed some light on the reality, though — in this case, consider voting. Students vote when they find an incentive to do so. But voting incurs personal costs, both in time and in money, particularly if students are registered at home. As a result, political science professor Daniel Bowen noted that “there’s expected to be low turnout.” According to campusvoteproject.org, only “24 percent of all eligible young people aged 18-29” took part in the 2010 midterm elections. Even a simple survey on campus produced similar turnouts. Across two microeconomics 101 courses with a wide distribution of genders, ages and
majors, only three out of 57 students voted in the New Jersey gubernatorial elections on Tuesday, Nov. 5. The election allowed students to vote on a minimum wage hike, a provision that directly impacts their employment options. The numbers appear lackluster. But perhaps this should be expected. “The importance of voting increases as the importance of government increases on your everyday decisions,” Bowen said. “When you graduate from college, when you have a job, start paying taxes and have a family, you start to care about bigger issues in public policy.” Ultimately, political apathy exists, both qualitatively from student inactivity and quantitatively from basic facts. But it’s also to be expected. If this is the case, then one must consider how to better mobilize students at the College. Involvement doesn’t just equate bold activistism and protest. Public debate, community work, interning on campaigns and simply being a good citizen are just as essential
to the political process, despite often being underrated. For others, awareness is key. “Inspiring students to be involved is easy. It’s about showing them that politics isn’t an exclusively national game,” Neal said. “It’s about teaching them that ‘all politics is local,’ and that their vote carries weight on the state and local levels.” College faculty can also inspire student activity through academics, framing issues and empowering students to influence outcomes in their interest. “A good political science department can help focus on the role of institutions, structures, demographics and other causal mechanisms that influence the headlines we see,” Bowen said. “We can embrace these concepts and empower students to say, ‘Let’s think deeply about these issues.’” The solutions vary, but they’ll all need to be employed if students are to become a force capable of combating real-world issues directly. In other words, the apathy of students today becomes their political problems tomorrow.
page 4 The Signal November 20, 2013
Wallets taken Clubs / Being involved at school Students volunteer their time By Tom Kozlowski Arts & Entertainment Editor
On Thursday, Nov. 14 at 12:30 p.m., a student reported a stolen wallet in the Brower Student Center, according to Campus Police. Officers reported that the girl, who had left her wallet valued at $55 on the table while getting food, discovered it missing after finishing her meal. The wallet was filed as a theft. … A student dining in Eickhoff Hall reported a missing wallet on Friday, Nov. 16, according to Campus Police. The brown leather wallet was reportedly valued at $41. The student told officers that he believes it was stolen.
continued from page 1 Education, published in July 1984 the definitive study in the field of student involvement, theorizes that the greater the student’s involvement in college, the greater the student’s personal development will be. The study also suggests that learning will increase with more involvement. For students at the College, Astin’s theories hold to a degree. “It’s basically a part-time job,” said Garrett Verdone, a junior marketing major with leadership positions
in the Mixed Signals and All College Theatre, as well as an active member of TCNJ Musical Theater and the Theaters Honors society Alpha Psi Omega. “Sometimes, like when we’re putting on a play, it turns into a fulltime job ... On the semesters when I’m less involved, I probably do a half grade better in all my classes. But for me it’s worth it.” Perhaps the biggest role student involvement plays is in social life. “I think being involved helps your social life a lot. You get to be friends with the people involved,”
said Samantha Pena, a senior English major involved in the English Honors Society Sigma Tau Delta and previously an editor for HerCampus. Students admitted that they would have gotten involved sooner than they originally did because of the positive impact that involvement has made on their college careers. “Ultimately, academics are important, but they don’t make you a complete individual,” Zolin said. “It’s your involvement with a student organization that provides a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment.”
Telling history through the oral tradition By Breeana Ashkar Correspondent The history department welcomed interested students and faculty to a series of presentations titled “Constructing the Past through ‘Materiality’ and ‘Orality’” on Wednesday, Nov. 13. The event was hosted by professors Xinru Liu and Roman Kovalev, who were accompanied by two student representatives in bringing modernity into history. Kovalev gave the first presentation, “Who drank all the Byzantine wine, and how do we
find out?” The lecture described the archaeological research centered on tracking where wine was exported from the Byzantine Empire during the time when there were restrictions on wine exports. Further research from materiality and archaeology revealed that wine was exported north of the Byzantine Empire. Thousands of shards from the wine vessels transported were evidence from the massive exports. That example of materiality flowed into the next presentation given by Liu: “Silk Road
and Buddhism,” which consisted of intricate descriptions of sculptures and carvings of the famous Buddha. The artifacts, such as statues, symbolized Buddhist culture with ornate details in each piece of art. For example, within a piece of art there were little figurines drinking or playing music, hinting to the culture. Junior psychology and sociology double major Stephanie Mallinas and junior history and secondary education double major Katherine Burke, both student representatives, gave
the closing presentation, which was about wanting to directly relate history and people. The students interviewed five women in Trenton and asked about their experiences with segregation and racism. “Oral history” was the method used by listening to the women’s firsthand experiences. The stories were especially moving because the interviewees were directly affected by the segregation that a person would typically read about in a textbook, making listening to their stories more personal.
Relating back to the maine themes of materiality and orality, some hardships to this type of research would be biases accurately remembering things and time, according to students. “They could’ve talked for days about certain events,” Mallinas said. After talking to the people of the Trenton community, the girls received an accurate depiction of what Trenton was like for the past 50 years. They walked away with a lasting learning experience and took pride in their hard work.
LIT 374/ENGL 650: Early American Literature Dr. Michele Lise Tarter (tarter@tcnj.edu)
Step Back in Time… Take a Trip to Early America! What was it like to live in the 1700s? Journey with us and find out!
Winter Session Course January 2-17, 2014 Class will be held on TCNJ’s campus and at the Friends Historical Library archives. Read 18th-century manuscripts: the primary texts of early American literature. For more information, visit: wintersession.pages.tcnj.edu Course fulfills: English Major Literary History requirement & Liberal Learning Arts and Humanities requirement.
November 20, 2013 The Signal page 5
Nation & W rld
ENDA passes after 20 years, discrimination remains By Jennie Sekanics Correspondent
America often prides itself on being the land of the free and the home of the brave — or at least that’s what its national anthem promises. Yet many gay, lesbian, queer and questioning Americans may be forced to disagree with the lyrics of their own patriotic tune. The Employment Non-Discrimination Act, a bill that has dwelled and died in the Senate for almost 20 years, was officially passed on the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions’ floor on Nov. 7. Although this was a victorious day for Americans everywhere, the issue now rests in the hands of
the House, where many political figures remain indifferent due to the unlikelihood of its passing. This is the first anti-discrimination law that has emerged from Senate since the recent legalization of gay marriage and the former annulment of the “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell Policy,” according to The Huffington Post. Moreover, Rolling Stone stated that this is the first time in history a transgender employment non-discrimination bill has passed in the Senate. The Washington Post, however, disclosed that House Speaker John A. Boehner (R-Ohio) claimed that the issue of non-discrimination within the workplace is “too broad and is unnecessary.”
According to Boehner’s spokesman Michael Steel, “The Speaker believes this legislation will increase frivolous litigation and cost American jobs, especially small business jobs.” The same sentiments have prevailed among many Republicans, including Fox newscaster Gretchen Carlson who suggested that the ENDA is a distraction from the unemployment rate and other pressing issues President Obama is currently facing, as she said, “I’m not saying they’re not priorities ... What I’m saying is, the timing of it all.” Yet, Julie Roginsky, a Fox News contributor and Democratic Party strategist, stated quite the opposite. When Carlson asked her about the
issue of employment non-discrimination, she replied, “There are millions of lesbians and gay men and women who are not able to get jobs because of who they are.” Although Roginsky firmly agreed that unemployment is a significant issue, it will only be prolonged by excluding deserving Americans from available jobs. This issue was debated within a two-party system, the bill passed with a bipartisan majority, Rolling Stone stated. Ten Senate Republicans voted for the passing of this bill, making the final count 64-32. Ian Thompson of the American Civil Liberties Union argued that the bill’s bipartisan consensus is indicative of the wide popularity
AP Photo
Twenty years in the making, ENDA was passed.
of non-discrimination laws among the general public. Rick Garcia, gay rights leader and political lobbyist admitted that although the passing of this bill within the House seems far-fetched, he has faith in the American people to help underscore this issue.
Zimmerman charged, aggravated assault and battery
AP Photo
Zimmerman, known for the Travyon Martin trial, is facing new charges.
APOPKA, Fla. (AP) — George Zimmerman was charged Monday with assault after deputies were called to the home where he lived with his girlfriend, who claimed he pointed a shotgun at her during an argument, authorities said. Zimmerman pushed the woman out of the house and barricaded the door with furniture, Chief Deputy Dennis Lemma said at a news conference hours after the arrest. The girlfriend, Samantha Scheibe, provided deputies with a key to the home and they were able to push the door that had been barricaded. “The easiest way to describe it is rather passive. He’s had the opportunity to encounter this before,” he said. Zimmerman was charged with aggravated assault with a weapon, battery and
Obscure & Offbeat
AP Photo
Rahm Emanuel and Jon Stewart have a pizza feud Chicago’s mayor has delivered a message to comedian Jon Stewart: Don’t diss his city’s prized pizza. Stewart denounced Chicago deep-dish pizza on “The Daily Show” this week as “an aboveground marinara swimming pool for rats.” Mayor Rahm Emanuel’s office sent an anchovy-covered “real pizza” to “The Daily Show” with a note that read: “Jon, Deep Dish With Dead Fish. Love, Rahm.” All information from AP
criminal mischief. “Just when you thought you heard the last of George Zimmerman,” said neighbor Catherine Cantrell. She said she had twice seen a man who looked like Zimmerman get out of a truck that’s been in the driveway for nearly a month. The truck parked there Monday appeared to be the same one that reporters have seen Zimmerman drive previously. Sarah Tyler, 26, also lives across the street from the tan stucco house on a cul-de-sac street of single family homes in Apopka, about 15 miles northwest of Orlando. “It’s kind of frightening,” she said, adding that she only saw a woman came out of the house. Zimmerman, 30, was acquitted in July of
Around the World:
all charges in the shooting of Trayvon Martin. The death of the black teenager, who was unarmed, touched off a nationwide debate about race and self-defense. Zimmerman, who identifies himself as Hispanic, has said he shot the 17-year-old to defend himself during a fight in February 2012 inside a gated community in Sanford, just outside Orlando. He wasn’t charged until 44 days after the shooting, leading to protests nationwide from people who believed he should have been immediately arrested. The case sparked accusations that Zimmerman had racially profiled Martin, and demonstrations broke out again after his acquittal. Federal authorities are now reviewing the case the see if Martin’s civil rights were violated.
Canada
Scandal strips mayor of his power TORONTO (AP) — Toronto’s City Council voted Monday to strip scandal-plagued Mayor Rob Ford of many of his powers following a heated debate in which he knocked over a female councilor. Council members voted overwhelming to cut the 44-year-old Ford’s office budget by 60 percent and allow mayoral staff to join the deputy mayor. Ford now effectively has no legislative power as he would no longer chair the executive committee. Ford retains his title and ability to represent Toronto at official functions. Ford called the effort a “coup d’etat” and vowed an “outright war” in the next election. Toronto has been abuzz with the Ford melodrama since May, when news outlets reported that he had been caught on video smoking crack cocaine. The debate on the motion became heated after Ford paced around the council chamber and traded barbs with members of the public. The speaker asked security to clear the chamber and a recess was called. Members of the public chanted “Shame! Shame!” at the mayor. Ford charged at the gallery at one point and knocked over Councilor Pam McConnell before picking her back up. Another councilor asked Ford to apologize. Ford said he was rushing to the defense of his brother, city Councilor Doug Ford.
AP Photo
Mayor Rob Ford was relieved of his powers in light of recent scandalous actions. “I picked her up,” Rob Ford said. “I ran around because I thought my brother was getting into an altercation.” Visibly shaken after Ford ran her over, McConnell, a petite woman in her 60s, said she never expected the chaos that broke out. “This is the seat of democracy, it is not a football field. I just wasn’t ready. Fortunately, the mayor’s staff was in front — they stopped me from hitting my head against the wall. I just need to sit down,” McConnell said. The motion was revised from a tougher version to ward off potential legal challenges. Ford would retain his title and ability to represent Toronto at official functions. The city’s lawyer said the proposal does not
render Ford “mayor in name only.” “Obviously I cannot do the job with eight people in the office with a quarter of the former mayor’s budget,” Ford said. The council does not have the power to remove Ford from office unless he is convicted of a crime. It is pursuing the strongest recourse available after the recent drug abuse revelations and his repeated outbursts of erratic behavior. “Mayor Ford has had many choices ... Would he change his behavior? Would he step aside and seek help?” said Councilor John Filion. “The mayor unfortunately has chosen the path of denial. Now it’s time to take away the keys.”
page 6 The Signal November 20, 2013
November 20, 2013 The Signal page 7
Editorial
Political apathy at the College
“Being aware of what’s going on in the world? That’s very important to me. I think classes on civic participation and international relations should be required. Most kids our age in other countries know more about what’s going in the United States than we do here. And I honestly believe that curiosity is a virtue. However, I don’t entirely blame our campus or any college student for that matter for ignorance. If you really think about the immense amount of pressure we are put under as “millennials,” some might reconsider their disdain for the blissfully unaware. We have our parents on us, our teachers, our mentors, politicians, economists, academic and psychological analysts break us down and build us up and tell us we simply aren’t doing enough to fight the tough job prospects. I wholeheartedly believe that on top of everything else we have to worry about, taking care of ourselves mentally and physically is the most worldly, intelligent and helpful thing we can do. So, if you’re going to be aware, do it often and do it stubbornly. If not, well, be the best that you can be for yourself and for everyone else that is just as worried about unknowns as you are.”
At the College, not many students are politically active.
— Jack Meyers, News Editor “Political apathy at the collegiate level is directly related to the student body’s lack of knowledge. It is safe to say that the College’s participation can be broken into three sections: ignorant, false knowledge and informed. Ignorant: Many students struggle to have even a semblance of political knowledge — they step back from the spotlight and happily skulk in the darkness of ignorance. False knowledge: A worse offender, they walk about with false confidences of political knowledge — spouting talking points without deep comprehension of governmental proceedings. Informed: A small group of students with an in-depth knowledge of politics and vigor to spread their intelligence. There is, however, a remedy for this politically apathetic epidemic: civics classes. Starting in grade school, civics classes should be mandatory — just as English and math rule as academic cornerstones, so should civics. The lack of investment in America’s national and international success would be rectified by the rudimentary understanding of how the government operates. You can fix your lack of knowledge. Pick up a book. Read an array of political articles — don’t just read from biased outlets. Just learn, because in the long run, this lack of interest hurts the country.”
— Emma Colton, Features Editor “Unfortunately, I have found myself fitting the profile of the student that is ‘apathetic’ toward politics. Although I am consistently exposed to politics through my position here at The Signal and in classes, I still find myself not caring as much as I perhaps should. Of course I understand that these decisions are extremely important and ultimately can affect my future, but I have never had any interest in taking part of a political activist organization. As a college student, I definitely find myself more concerned about social issues, in which I support the liberals. However, I can’t definitively say that I am a liberal, because I unfortunately don’t have the imperative knowledge of all other issues to make that kind of absolute declaration.”
— Julie Kayzerman, Nation & World Editor “Coming from someone who isn’t very active in politics, I do believe it’s important to be informed and involved. As I’ve gone through college, I’ve tried to learn more little by little in an attempt to gain a better understanding of politics. I feel like people must be educated if they plan on voting and making opinions on politics. I, myself, am not informed, so I stay out of it for the most part, although I do hope to continue to learn, as its effect on me grows as I get older.”
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Mailing Address: The Signal c/o Brower Student Center The College of New Jersey P.O. Box 7718 Ewing, NJ 08628-0718
Julie Kayzerman Nation & World Editor kayzerj1@tcnj.edu Colleen Murphy Review Editor murphc16@tcnj.edu Regina Yorkigitis Web Editor Annabel Lau Gabrielle Beacken News Assistants Andrew Grossman Sports Assistant Shayna Innocenti A&E Assistant Andreia Bulhao Features Assistant Jonathan Edmondson Opinions Assistant Mylin Batipps Production Manager Andreia Bulhao Samantha DiGrande Angela De Santis Copy Editors Emilie Lounsberry Advisor Matt Napoli Business/Ad Manager
AP Photo
Quotes of the Week “Ultimately, academics are important, but they don’t make you a complete individual. A lot of times it’s your involvement with a student organization that provides a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment.”
— Seth Zolin, manager of the Brower Student Center.
“Inspiring students to be involved is easy. It’s about showing them that politics isn’t an exclusively national game.” — Sophomore political science major Brendan Neal.
Corrections
From the Nov. 13 issue
— Chris Molicki, News Editor
Editorial Content Unsigned editorial opinions are those of the Editorial Board, which consists of the Editor-in-Chief, the Managing, News, Features, Arts & Entertainment, Opinions, Photo and Sports editors and the Business Manager, unless otherwise noted. Opinions expressed in signed editorials and letters to the editor are those of the author and not necessarily those of The Signal.
In “JEWeek: Holocaust survivor shares journey” on page 13, Raoul Wallenberg’s name was misspelled. We regret the error.
page 8 The Signal November 20, 2013
November 20, 2013 The Signal page 9
Opinions
Exploring wage differentials between summer jobs By Patrick Dyer
A factor for workers deciding where to work is the potential danger of a job and the market compensation for the added risk. As a job’s level of risk increases, the wages an employer must pay to attract workers, or other perks, must be higher. In the labor market, a “marriage” of workers occurs. Workers pair with firms that offer similar job characteristics to the job traits that they are seeking. As a broke college student, I want to explore the application of these two theories in my own life. I will limit the jobs being compared to low-skill and seasonal. The only variables are characteristics of the job and risk of injury. I will compare the wage differentials based on job characteristics and the risk of injury of summer jobs for two friends and myself. First, I will start with the simplest example — my friend Sean. He works as a cashier for a local ShopRite. His job
is hourly, seasonal, requires little to no skill and, as he describes it, is rather mundane. On a daily basis, Sean faces negligible amounts of danger, but says he enjoys the job because it requires marginal effort on his part. A labor economist would state that Sean matches up well with ShopRite, as it fits his preference for minimal risk and his preference for minimal work. Unfortunately for Sean, his wage reflects his preferences and he only makes $9 an hour. Another friend of mine, Mike, works entry-level construction as his summer job. His risk of injury is significantly higher — he pulled a muscle in his leg on the first day — and his work is constantly strenuous. His indifference curve is to the right of Sean because he places a greater value on wage than risk. Mike prefers to work at the construction firm because, to him, the $18 an hour wage outweighs the risk. Although Mike is certainly not working his dream job, he chooses the construction work
because the firm’s isoprofit curve is closer to his indifference curve than ShopRite’s isoprofit curve. In other words, the $9 wage differential is enough to work construction rather than at ShopRite. My job as a caddy can also be considered a seasonal and entry-level position. As a caddy, I walk around an eightmile golf course carrying two 20-pound bags strapped to my back through constant summer heat, so I would argue my indifference curve is very similar to Mike’s. Although my wage is solely based on tips, it averages out to slightly over $16 an hour. But caddying offers the perks of allowing me to constantly be around a sport I love, and I am able to play on a private golf course — albeit only once a week. The relationship between my wage and job characteristics compensate for the slight wage differential. This is an example of the Hedonic wage function and effectively matches my labor supply to
the labor demand of the country club. I am willing to sacrifice the $2 wage differential because of the perks caddying offers. Of course this is a simplified perspective, as ability bias and a number of other personal factors are ignored for the sake of complexity and length, but it succinctly uses the theories to rationalize how each of
us selected a summer job. By comparing the relative indifference curves of my friends and then relative isoprofit curves offered by firms, I was able to explain the respective wage differentials. Both of these theories can also explain how each of us chose to marry our respective firms to maximize personal summertime utility.
AP Photo
Intense job characteristics and high risk of injury correlate with a higher wage for summer workers.
‘The Voice’ wins over viewers Historical accuracy Importance of spelling
By Jonathan Edmondson Opinions Assistant
On last Tuesday’s episode of “The Voice,” NBC’s reality singing competition, the Twitter instant save was introduced. When the bottom three were revealed, America had five minutes to take to Twitter and tweet to save its favorite artist using a hashtag. This type of audience power was met with excellent feedback. This type of tactic is only one of the ways that the producers of “The Voice” are doing things right. While “American Idol” and “The X Factor” continue to slip in ratings, in the fall of 2012, “The Voice” was solely responsible for making NBC the most watched network in America. Americans live for the fresh and new, and “The Voice” offers something bold every season. These twists are effective for heating up the competition because they allow for direct audience interaction. With the new instant save, audiences now feel like they have more power than ever. In the digital age that we live in, it is truly baffling that so many shows are failing in marketability. “The Voice” is clearly drawing in viewers every week, so why are other similar shows lacking the ability to do so? As with the future of fictional television, I am interested in the future of reality competition shows, particularly music ones. If producers do not follow tactics like the ones used on “The Voice,” they will continue to lower in viewership. Big broadcasting companies spend millions of dollars in market research alone, so why is there still a lack of audience? Studying trends in today’s generation is not an easy task. It seems like everyday people move on to a new fad. It really is incredible that any television show can stay relevant past a season or two. While this is a harsh reality, it is the reality nonetheless, and producers need to start tapping into what Americans really want.
If these shows do not grow with the times, then viewers will surely leave them behind for better and more relevant programs. And who could blame them? According to an American Time Use Survey done by the Bureau of Labor Statistics in June 2013, Americans spend on average 2.8 hours a day watching television. While this may seem like a large number, this time is equivalent to one episode of “The Voice” or “The X Factor” and maybe the nightly news. Americans do not have time to watch an abundance of programs, so naturally they will only choose the most interesting ones. What “The Voice” is doing that the other shows are failing to do is expanding their reach beyond those 2.8 hours. Viewers discuss “The Voice” with their friends, download artists’ tracks on iTunes, and keep up with their favorites via Twitter. While this kind of dedication exists for other reality shows, none of them has the same following that “The Voice” has. Each show should find the strategy that best works for them. “The Voice” is lucky enough to have found a niche and has grown on that original platform. If other shows do not start finding their own way to reach audiences, they can expect to continue watching their ratings plummet.
AP Photo
As ‘The Voice’ soars in ratings, other reality competition shows should take notice.
This article was written in response to Nicole Ferrito’s article, “Holocaust education: WWII survivor speaks,” published on Nov. 13.
By Jonathan Machlin
When I attended Vera Goodkin’s speech at the Education Building last week, I became very emotionally invested because I have family who shared many of the experiences she had. As such, I am extremely grateful that you were willing to give the story a mention on the front page of the latest issue of The Signal. However, I must make note of a small, but serious issue that I have with the content of the article. The article (twice) references to the name of the person who helped save Goodkin from the holding prisons in Budapest: Raoul Wallenberg. Unfortunately, the article has his named misspelled as “Raul Walenberg.” While I know this was completely unintentional and maybe not worthy of a reprint/redaction, etc., I would like to go on record as stating that Wallenberg is an honored historical figure and hero in virtually every Holocaust memorial and Genocide prevention organization in the world. While Goodkin’s discussion about Wallenberg on a personal level may have made this fact less obvious, out of respect to a historical figure who personally saved the lives of tens of thousands of people, I would humbly ask to AT LEAST make those changes on your website — which features the same misspellings. In all fairness, no one would ever want to be caught misspelling “Abraham Lincoln,” “Barack Obama” or “George Washington” — so to me at least it would be very unfortunate to let Wallenberg, who did so much for human rights and genocide prevention, be the first. Please note that I am not requesting this out of moral outrage or political correctness, but so I can help properly honor somebody who personally saved the lives of many of my family members as well.
Policies The Signal is published weekly during the academic year and is financed by the Student Activities Fee (SAF) and advertising revenue. Any student may submit articles to The Signal. Publication of submitted articles is at the discretion of the editors. The letters section is an open forum for opinions. Submissions that announce events or advertise in any way will not be printed. All letters should be sent via e-mail to signal@tcnj.edu. Handwritten letters should be sent to The Signal, c/o The Brower Student Center, The College of New Jersey, PO Box 7718 Ewing, N.J. 08628 or placed in our mailbox in the Student Life Office. Letters must be received by the Friday before publication and should not exceed 300 words. The Signal reserves the right to edit letters for space and clarity. All letters must be signed, with a phone number and address of the author. Requests to withhold the author’s name will be honored only if there is a legitimate reason. All materials submitted become the sole property of The Signal. The editors reserve the right to edit or withhold all articles, letters & photographs. The Signal willingly corrects factual mistakes. If you think we have made an error, please contact The Signal at (609) 771-2424, write to the address listed above or e-mail us at signal@tcnj.edu.
page 10 The Signal November 20, 2013
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November 20, 2013 The Signal page 11
Arts & Entertainment
Cabaret / Not just another song and dance
Julie Kayzerman / Nation & World Editor
Intricate set and costume designs of ‘Cabaret’ impress. continued from page 1
as he remembered the life he once knew. “We are all ghosts retelling the story in an over-the-top-manner,” said senior communication studies major Monica Blumenstein, who played the lead female role, Sally Bowles. “This is a play that was
written to push the limits of the actors and the way society thinks.” In his memories, the Emcee introduced the audience to a cabaret called the Kit Kat Klub — a place where gender lines were blurred and only happiness and times of celebration remained. “Leave your troubles outside. In here, life is beautiful,” the
Emcee said to the audience. The Emcee, also known as the master of ceremonies, was the flamboyant character of the cabaret Kit Kat Klub who narrated the play, as he stalked in and out of the holes in the walls of the set, peering into the lives of people he once knew. This challenging character was played by theater veteran Adam Ziering, a junior special education and math/science/ technology double major. “All of the characters really had a lot of depth and layers,” Ziering said. “I am still figuring out the character (the Emcee).” The character of the Emcee specifically helped to retell the complicated and shortlylived love story between Sally Bowles, a former Kit Kat dancer, and Clifford Bradshaw, an aspiring American novelist. Other prominent characters included a German landlady who fell in love with a Jewish man, a Nazi soldier who smuggled items from France into Germany and a resident who loved
lonely sailors and often butted heads with the landlady. Just as the Kit Kat Klub is often described as being a holein-the-wall kind of place, the set design skillfully mirrored that concept. Holes were carved out of the framework of the walls in the set, allowing the characters to interact both in a scene and on the outskirts of a scene. The simple yet innovative set design added depth to the play and gave the actors more freedom in their creative process of moving about the stage. The promiscuous characters raised a lot of eyebrows and brought about a lot of laughter in this production as well. The “Cabaret” cast — especially the Kit Kat dancers — was susceptible to everything from sweet kisses to grabby hands. The audience especially enjoyed when the bald-headed Emcee walked onstage in a series of hilarious costumes that ranged from suspenders adorned with bow ties to a dress and high heels. While the ending of this play
has had many adaptations, the TMT cast did an excellent job bringing the memories of the troubled Emcee, who wore a yellow star, full circle by having him end the play as it began … a fallen chair and a rope. Overall, the TMT cast and crew completely immersed the audience into the many unique and conflicting perspectives of “Cabaret,” creating a world of eccentricity, sexuality and a flashy dose of humanity.
Julie Kayzerman / Nation & World Editor
Promiscuity reigns.
Documentary boosts hope for life in Trenton
By Lianna Lazur Staff Writer
“This Trenton Life,” a documentary film created by students at the College, was shown in Mayo Concert Hall on Friday, Nov. 15. Special guest David Lee White, a leader at the Passage Theater in Trenton, was also in attendance to view the film for the first time. The documentary, created by junior interactive multimedia major Josh Lewkowicz and senior communication studies major Nicole Thompson, captured life on the
streets of Trenton and the back stories of several students involved in White’s youth theater program. More specifically, the film highlighted the positive effect the arts theater program has had on the students who participate. “Create, conjure, conceive” are the three principal words that the students involved in the theater program use as guidelines when referring to the potential goals of their talent and their peers. “I’ve never met an untalented student,” White said about the students he met through his work with the theater. The goal of this documentary was not
to focus on the common misconceptions of Trenton as a tragedy case. Rather, its purpose was to display the positivity spread by the younger generations who live in Trenton and call it home. According to the opening speaker, the documentary also served as “a forum for their voices to be heard,” referring to the young adults featured in the film, as well as their work in White’s theater. Two students featured in the documentary used poetry as a form of expression, regarding their personal experiences in Trenton as well as the stereotypes
attributed to the city. Tamara, one of the students in the documentary, recited through poetry, “My voice, our voices are our outlets.” Ultimately, the purpose of the documentary was to enlighten the audience on life in Trenton, not for all of its hardship, but for the opportunity to thrive through art. It demonstrated the need to open up one’s mind to perspectives that stray away from the theory that Trenton is solely a dysfunctional city and advocated for individual expression in a city that hasn’t lost hope.
Music, goofs and spoofs for Lampshades
Courtney Wirths / Photo Editor
Flannery and Robinson join forces to tell jokes.
By Mike Herold Staff Writer
The College was graced by recognizable celebrities last week, as performing duo The Lampshades, featuring Kate Flannery (best known as Meredith from “The Office”) and Scot
Robinson (the waiter from ‘Anchorman’), performed on Thursday, Nov. 14. The show, which was free to students and SAF funded, consisted of not only the loungeshow-style performance by the headliners, but also an introductory show by the College’s own
Mixed Signals. In a sharp change of pace from a typical show, the Lampshades’ performance revolved around musical comedy. In a satirical knockoff of the kind of lousy show you might see on a cruise ship, their performance was complete with audience interactions and some improvised bits, too. “We started doing this act years ago in Chicago and took a break for a while when we lived in separate cities. But we’ve been performing every week for five years,” Flannery said. “We’ve really developed the show.” “We had been fans of old, obscure music, and we realized that each of us had individually wanted to do something like a lounge act, so that’s really how the show started,” Robinson said. Musical numbers for the show often merged two songs together, with each performer taking on a different number while making some attempt at dancing along
with the music. “I was tone deaf while she was formally trained in musical theater. So they’d be doing a song and I’d hear a completely different song,” Robinson said about the origins of their musical style. “We’re not big on harmony that’s why we ended up doing a lot of mash-ups — two songs played at the same time — because the weakness of the harmony becomes the strength of doing two songs at once,” Flannery said. In between the musical numbers, Flannery and Robinson took on the roles of two characters you might see in a low-budget lounge act that has long since outlived fame and fortune. Flannery portrayed a character overeager to not only remind the audience that the two were “Not a couple!” while propositioning the young men in the audience, while Robinson acted as a drunkard — complete with
running offstage at one point to refill his glass — just looking for a ride home after the show. Most members of the audience got involved with the show, either clapping along with the beat of well-known songs or laughing at the antics of the characters on stage. For the hopeful future comedians in the audience, the show was simply a good time. “We kind of went into this knowing it would be a musical comedy show, which is much different from what we do,” sophomore English and education double major Steven Munoz said. “So we were just sort of watching to enjoy it. It wasn’t so much a learning experience as it was something we could enjoy. Every time we see someone else perform it’s just exciting.” After the performance was over, Flannery and Robinson stuck around, snapping pictures and joking around with students who stayed to greet them.
page 12 The Signal November 20, 2013
Tao Lin, student talents adorn all-day ‘Goods’ By Tom Kozlowski Arts & Entertainment Editor
Spanning 25 acts, eight hours and several jugglers, INK’s biannual “The Goods” showcased a range of creative works from students and postmodern readings from novelist Tao Lin on Saturday, Nov. 16, at the Rathskeller. “The Goods” is an open opportunity for students to present their art in both a close environment and one friendly to idiosyncrasies.
Love poems are to be appreciated. A presentation on the existential philosophy of beauty is to be admired. No performer’s endeavors go underrepresented, and it serves as one of many appeals to INK’s all-day event. Primarily driven by writers, a majority of student performers read their original literary works. Megan Osika, a junior secondary education, English and women’s and gender studies triple major, recited selected poems while
Tom Kozlowski / A&E Editor
A student proves ‘beauty is perfection’ using proofs.
secretary of INK Rachel Friedman read a short story focussing on the reassimilation of a newly disabled girl. Other members of the organization also gave prominent performances, including puns by events cordinator Mylin Batipps and poetry by president Carly DaSilva. Musicians played an equally important role in the schedule. Artists Tom Ciccone and Matthew Pignatore, for example, performed two respective sets on guitar, providing a break in between the readings with their own sweet melodies. At 6:30 p.m., the crowd waited restlessly for the arrival of headlining reader Tao Lin: novelist, poet, journalist and 2005 graduate of NYU. But Lin, unfortunately, had gone to the wrong location. He arrived at 7:20 p.m. instead with only half of the allotted time to read, and the mea culpa dug into his performance. Reciting a passage from his recently-released third novel, “Taipei,” Lin read as if coming out of general anesthesia — his delivery, drowsy and monotone, confused some viewers as to
whether the humor in his passage was intended to be deadpan or if its narrator was merely depressed. Words slurred, he broke narrative to apologize for incomprehensible plot points. Inevitably, Lin may not have been impressed with himself. “This was boring for everyone, even me,” Lin said after completing his work from “Taipei.” He then read from his earlier novel, “Richard Yates,” which fell more favorably on audience members who grasped the postmodern humor. With characters named Dakota Fanning and Haley Joel Osment, unassociated with their real-life acting counterparts, Lin’s writing raised interesting questions about perception and identity. For some, Lin presented himself as nothing short of perplexity. But perhaps it was all in the act. Reading or even hearing Lin’s prose is culture shock to our own environment. Though minimalistic, he captured a 21st century extremism that explored the emptiness of conversation, marathons of lonely Tweets and druginduced complacency. His words
Tom Kozlowski / A&E Editor
Lin reads from ‘Taipei.’
are practically displacing. To admit their truths is to seem cynical, but to reject them as foreign is naive. Reading in his casual montone may have been initially offputting for some, but if it proved an existential point, then Lin’s performance was a successful climax to “The Goods” celebration of the arts.
Recital showcases range of styles, instruments By Tamara Fuentes Correspondent
Jarret Farkas and Cory Nickerson presented their senior recital in Mayo Concert Hall on Sunday, Nov. 17, with Farkas on the oboe and Nickerson on percussion. The two talented players went back and forth when performing, each taking a turn on the stage to show us what they learned. Nickerson began by playing the Prelude to “Violin Purrita No. 3 in E major BWV 1006” by Johann Sebastian Bach. For this piece, he played the marimba, showing his percussion skills from the start. Farkas then went on stage to perform the second movement of “Sonata for Oboe and Piano” by Camille Saint-Saens. Sally Livingston accompanied him on the piano as the two played a sweet and playful mix.
Soon after, Nickerson came back on stage to perform Andres Valero-Castells’s “Impromptu Zeta” on the timpani drums. In this piece, he was able to take advantage of the instrument and exmplify everything the timpani drums can do. The first half ended with another piece by Farkas featuring Tracy Wiko on the piano. They played the first movement in Franz Joseph Haydn’s “Oboe Concerto in C.” This piece offered a nice back and forth between the piano and the oboe and showed Farkas’s breath control. Soon after a short intermission, Nickerson took the stage to play the first movement of “Recital Suite for Djembe” by B. Michael Williams. It was a fun dance piece that continued to show Nickerson’s versatility in various percussion instruments. Farkas went back onstage for another
oboe and piano piece. He and Livingston played the third movement of “Oboe Concerto in C Minor” by Benedetto Marcello. In this piece, the piano and oboe worked well together, never stopping and coming together as one, especially toward the end. Austin Barney then joined Nickerson on the trombone to perform Doug Bristol’s “Conversation for Trombone and Timpani.” This piece, featuring both instruments at a lower register, worked well together and neither performer overpowered the other, even though they both had the power to. Livingston then joined Farkas for their final piece: the first two movements of “Sonata for Oboe and Piano” by Francis Poulenc. The piece showed how these two different instruments could come together as one and make a very well-done piece.
Nickerson then ended the program with Benjamin Finley’s “Evergreen” on the Marimba, showcasing the full range of the instrument in a playful manner. Both players received countless applause and a standing ovation at the end. Afterward, friends and family crowded them as they came out to thank them. Farkas noted that his last piece, “Sonata for Oboe and Piano,” was his favorite in the program, and that he was “a little nervous in the beginning.” Nickerson also stated that his last piece, “Evergreen,” was his favorite. “I was nervous at first, and a couple of pieces in, I was confident,” he said. Ultimately, both musicians showed their talents in the recital, displaying how dedicated and diverse the College’s music department is.
Web of controversy can’t stop ‘Spider-Man’ By Colleen Murphy Review Editor
Broadway’s “Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark” makes headlines for two reasons. The first reason is how much money it cost to make. It is believed that the producers spent over $75 million to make the show — that is over twice as much as any production in Broadway history, according to The New York Times. The same article said that in order for investors to make the money back that they funneled into the production, the show would have to run for over seven years, a milestone few plays ever reach. The second reason the show is well-known is because of how many injuries there are on the set. During a preview performance of the musical, stuntman Christopher Tierney fell approximately 25 feet to the stage, fracturing his skull and cracking his vertebrae.
Since this initial injury, several more actors and dancers have seriously injured themselves due to the set and stunts. But more importantly, “Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark” should be making headlines for how entertaining it is. The play’s storyline is quite similar to the 2002 film adaptation of “Spider-Man.” Peter Parker is bitten by a spider, becomes the masked superhero, falls for the girl-next-door and battles the Green Goblin. But there are two main differences that the play offers, including six new villains — The Sinister Six — and a plot revolving around Greek mythology. The beginning of the play was a little slow. The Greek mythology didn’t seem to fit and the voices were hard to hear — at times unintelligible over the loud rock music. But once the story picked up speed and the audience could hear the actors clearly, it was
AP Photo
The musical breaks box office records and a few bones.
nonstop action and fun. “Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark” had the best, most creative sets I have ever seen of a Broadway production. While most shows stick to one background, “Spider-Man” had a new graphic-novel-inspired set for each number. An expensive prop would be used once and never be
seen again. The costumes were amazing and detailed. After seeing the play and how much time and effort went into making the set so colorful and lively, there is no wonder how producers spent $9 million on costumes and shoes alone — the same it cost to produce the sets in “The Book of Mormon” in their entirety.
One could also understand why so many actors have been injured on the set once they see all of the Spider-Men swinging over the audience, landing at the edge of the mezzanine and running through the aisles. Along with the fantastic sets, costumes and stunts comes incredible music. Of course, really nothing else can be expected once you find out that U2’s Bono and The Edge wrote the music and lyrics. For a laugh now and then, a sample of several U2 songs were sneaked in throughout the show as well. “Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark” was refreshing and unlike any other Broadway production out there. While it might not be the most original or best plot that Broadway offers, the intricate set and costume designs, the edgy music and the jaw-dropping stunts are definitely top-notch and make the higher ticket price well worth it.
November 20, 2013 The Signal page 13
‘12 Years a Slave’ captivating and raw
AP Photos
Left: Northup is subjected to slavery after living as a free man in the north. Right: McQueen’s film shows the brutal, emotional toll of racism. By Karl Delossantos Staff Writer Once in a while, a film comes around that just feels important. “Psycho,” “2001: A Space Odyssey” and this year’s “Gravity” are members of the group. However, this year there is another film that could fit the bill. “12 Years a Slave” is not a technologically innovative film, but it is the raw human emotion and unflinching storytelling that makes it important. It was once said that movies should make you feel uncomfortable, and “12 Years a Slave” painfully achieves that. This is no surprise, considering director Steve McQueen also helmed the NC-17rated sex addiction film “Shame,” starring Michael Fassbender, who also appears in “12 Years a Slave.” McQueen is masterful at letting the plot take over the film, even if
he does so here at the expense of real character development. Despite this, the film is chock full of fine performances and bolstered with raw, emotional performances. In the film, Chiwetel Eijofor plays Solomon Northup — a free man and accomplished violinist who is taken in as a slave for, as the title says, 12 years. We are painfully connected to him. We are feeling his emotion and his pain. But there is something missing — his role is never fully developed. While we see him emote realistically, there is never a strong backstory that differentiates him from any other person. In the film, we watch this one man endure incredible cruelty and abuse but never witness the widespread nature of slavery. The filmmakers can’t be blamed for this oversight, seeing as this is Northup’s story, but it would have made for a stronger film.
Nevertheless, this fine film succeeds at what it set out to do: tell the story of protagonist Solomon Northup. Along the way, Northup encounters viciously cruel landowners and other slaves. This impressive ensemble includes actors Sarah Paulson, Benedict Cumberbatch, Brad Pitt, Paul Dano, Paul Giamatti and Alfre Woodard, among others. Despite the large cast, there are two clear standouts from the supporting players. Michael Fassbender, who plays perhaps the cruelest slave owner of Northup, Edwin Epps, plays the role with an icy realism that bolsters the film’s brutality. However, it is Lupita Nyong’o who steals the entire film in a breakout role. She is absolutely heartbreaking as another slave owned by Fassbender’s character. It is her role that we feel the most empathy for. It is her role that makes us want to turn away
from the screen. Don’t be surprised to see her pick up a few trophies, including an Oscar, for this performance. If it is Nyong’o’s performance that makes us want to turn away, then it is Eijofor that makes us want to keep watching. He portrays his character with a strength that may not be readily available in the screenplay, which makes his performance all the more remarkable. “12 Years a Slave” is going to please a lot of people, whether it be critics, regular moviegoers or those looking for a popcorn flick. It keeps you interested the entire way through, and where it falters it makes up for in performances and craft. If you’re looking for a brutal, historical look at American slavery, look no further. Its brilliance and effectiveness is in its realism, and that’s why this movie, more than others this year, is an important film.
Love for music spurs savvy student recitals By Kevin Rehberger Correspondent
It was time for seniors Kacie Miller and Sarah Benkert to show what they had learned as music majors in another edition of the Afternoon Recital Series. Miller performed on the flute while Benkert performed on the clarinet on Sunday, Nov. 17 in Mayo Concert Hall.
“I obviously had a love for this art that you saw and molded as I grew as a musician,” Benkert said in her recital thank you letter. Benkert began the recital with a performance of Carl Maria von Weber’s “Clarinet Concerto No. 1 in F minor,” followed by a performance of Johann Sebastian Bach’s “Sonata in G minor for Flute and Piano” by Miller. Miller and Benkert’s were
often accompanied by Kathy Shanklin and Sally Livingston, respectively, who performed on the piano during most of the performances. Miller then played by herself during her performance of Katherine Hoover’s “Winter Spirits for Solo Flute.” Benkert also performed songs such as Johannes Brahms’s “Clarinet Sonata No. 1 in F minor,” Richard Strauss’s “Romanze in
E Flat Major,” Paul Hindemith’s “Sonata for Clarinet and Piano in B Flat Major” and Eugene Bozza’s “Claribel.” There was a big audience who came to hear the two seniors perform. Many of its members came to support their peers. “I came to support Benkert,” said senior political science and journalism double major Jenna Rose, who has known Benkert
since middle school. All the same, Rose said she enjoyed both performances greatly. The girls’ hard work paid off, as they were rewarded with loud applause and recognition after each performance. “I am grateful that you are all here to support us and that we get to share this day with you,” Miller said in her recital thank you letter.
Stay Hostage Calm and carry on at the Rat By Frank Parisi Correspondent
Hostage Calm completely stole the show on Friday, Nov. 15, getting everyone at the Rathskeller to rush to the stage. As their beats shook the room, the punk rock band from Connecticut fed off the crowd’s energy. Everyone began to clap and sing along to the songs from their newest album, “Please Remain Calm.” Members of Hostage Calm simultaneously bobbed their heads to the beat and jumped around to keep the crowd going. “That’s all I’ve ever known,” lead vocalist Christ “Cmar” Martin said about the energy he brought to the stage. He explained how he learned his stage enthusiasm from two key musical inspirations: Bruce Springsteen and The Clash. The band just got back from touring the United States and Canada with popular emo band Saves the Day. Although Hostage Calm had an amazing time on tour, Martin said he still has “a good relationship with Jersey” and always has a
great time playing in the state. Restorations performed before Hostage Calm and did an amazing job as well, playing behind lead singer Jon Loudon. Loudon worked the crowd and got everyone excited by playing some of the band’s new songs from their latest album, “LP2.” The band, originally from Philadelphia, has been together for six years and just came back from touring the United States as well. Some of their most notable shows were played in Seattle, Dallas, Denver and Gainsville. “Gainsville was a music festival,” Loudon said. He then looked at a fellow bandmate with a big smirk on his face and said, “It was just crazy.” Restorations seemed to have a lot of fun together, and they also had a strong appreciation for their New Jersey fans. The Dundees, a local band from the College, opened up with five songs that got students ready for the two headliners. The band has played at the Rat before and is wellknown for their basement shows. “I just love them all,” said senior graph-
Melanie Orr / Staff Photographer
The origins of punk rock resonate in Hostage Calm and Restorations. ic design major Mallory Guzzi, a fan of fellow bands such as Saves the Day. Students came out to listen to the music of the three bands and finish off a stressful week of school — no one seemed disappointed.
“We just needed music,” freshman open options major Ruby Bertola said. She has already seen the Dundees once before at the Rat and enjoyed their performance on Friday.
page 14 The Signal November 20, 2013
November 20, 2013 The Signal page 15
Features
Around the world in less than a day
By Mylin Batipps Production Manager While many can’t say they have traveled to another country, students at the College can say that countries from all over the world came to them. Residential Education and Housing presented “Trip Around the World” on Thursday, Nov. 14 in the Brower Student Center. Co-sponsored by the Black Student Union, the International House and the Center for Global Engagement, the cultural show gave students at the College a taste of all of the different cultures on campus. The TCNJ Hellenic Society showcased its Baklava — a rich pastry filled with chopped nuts and a syrupy sauce. Members of the student organization performed a dance for everyone, wrapping their arms around each other’s shoulders and kicking their legs in sync. It was quite the spectacle. My second stop was Australia, and after failing to figure out the names of the states, I decided to try their bread with vegemite, a yeast spread. It was very salty, but nonetheless, it was great. After getting my passport stamped, I traveled to Italy. The TCNJ Italian Club presented rainbow cake, assorted cookies and wafers with powdered sugar. “When you think of Italy,
Photo courtesy of Celia Liu
International foods take students for an edible trip around the globe. you think of really good food,” said Morgan Giaimo, sophomore nursing major and secretary of the Italian Club. “You think of lots of pasta, desserts, pizza … It’s just a really family-oriented setting.” Next, I traveled to Brazil, which featured different types of chocolates and tea. The visit was short, but sweet. The South American area was my next stop, and Union Latina showcased its Tres Leches cake, made of three different types of milk. It was very moist, but refreshing. Junior accounting major and treasurer of Union Latina Rhina Brito said that the student organization wanted to let everyone know how diverse the Spanish culture is. “We all have different cultures,
different types of dances and different types of foods,” she said. “Our motto is ‘United We Are Stronger,’” said Katrina Calderon, sophomore health and exercise science major and secretary of Union Latina. “We truly believe that it’s important to not just unite the Hispanic and Latino organizations, but everyone else as well, to give people knowledge of our culture.” I got my passport stamped, and then I traveled to my next destination — the Philippines. TCNJ Barkada performed a dance that featured large bamboo sticks and impressive eyefoot coordination. “It’s the Tinikling dance,” said Angelica Teneglics, sophomore psychology major and public relations manager of
Barkada. “It’s basically the dance of the tikling bird and the bird dances between bamboo traps that are set by rice farmers in the Philippines.” Delta Theta Sigma Sorority Inc. gave me a taste of the African-American culture with its pumpkin pie and apple cobbler, which was my last sampling of the night. My final stop was Asia, where the Chinese Student Association performed a dance that featured impressive costumes and masks. “They were all handmade and brought from Taiwan,” Mandarin Chinese professor Celia Liu said. “The masks are lions, and in ancient times, we thought that (the lion) was a lucky animal that could scare away the devil and bring in
good luck.” Director of the International House Curtis Chan said that in years past the event was a program only done in the residence hall. But he decided to shake things up a bit. “We thought that it might be good to reach out to all student organizations,” Chan said. “This is a good opportunity to show them that we also do programs and care about (multicultural students) outside the residence halls.” Michael Evans, junior marketing major and vice president of the Black Student Union, said that BSU hosted a type of event like this in years past, called “Thanksgiving Remix.” But this year, the organization worked together with Residential Education and Housing to advertise the program on a larger scale. “I really appreciate TCNJ for organizing an event like this,” said Amy Chen, junior English major and member of Taiko, which also performed for the event. “I think it’s really good for us to have more events and opportunities like this where you can be exposed to different cultures, especially the ones that you often forget about.” “It’s really cool,” junior biology major Lesley Wu said. “It brings a lot of people together and you get all these different flavors of each culture.”
Crossfit craziness: sport or fitness fad? By Brielle Urciuoli Correspondent
Photo courtesy of Mitch Benyon
TCNJ Crossfit Club working out.
Fran, Cindy, Helen — to the average person, these may just be the the names of a friend, family member or colleague. But to a crossfitter, they represent iconically grueling workouts, performed daily in boxes across the world. Crossfit, founded by Greg Glassman in 2000, has grown from a backyard competition to a worldwide fitness phenomenon. Defined as “constantly varied functional movements at high intensities,” Crossfit involves a slew of Olympic weightlifting, gymnastics, cardio and flexibility. “However, for those who crossfit, it is much more than that,” said senior history and secondary education double major Joe DeMarco, who is also a level one certified Crossfit trainer at Pennington Crossfit. “It’s a lifestyle.” From the pool to the weight room, gymnastics rings and everything in between, it is no surprise that crossfitters are often referred to as “the fittest on Earth.”
Crossfit gyms, also known as boxes, are springing up across the nation, and college clubs are becoming increasingly popular as well. TCNJ Crossfit Club meets over 10 times a week. “It started off as one person leading a bunch of workouts,” said senior math and secondary education double major Michelle Delahanty, who is the vice president of the TCNJ Crossfit Club. “Now we have a bunch of people leading workouts, a couple crossfit certified members of our club, and we even have events like an obstacle course scheduled for November.” But not everybody is excited about this fitness fad. Some more traditional workout enthusiasts are skeptical about the efficiency of the sport. Mitch Benyon, a sophomore psychology major and Crossfit trainer at Pennington Crossfit said, “Most of the scrutiny comes from those who practice the traditional styles of weightlifting and running. The main criticism is that form is compromised, which can be true in some instances.”
Many people believe that proper form is nearly impossible to obtain due to the speed and high intensity of Crossfit workouts. But those nonbelievers may want to take note of Olympic Athletes, such as Amanda Beard, who have become lovers of the sport and regulars at their local boxes. Additionally, not everyone can teach Crossfit. Trainers go through an extensive amount of training to learn the fundamental movements, nutritional advice and practice workouts just to gain their level one trainer’s certification. “The course exemplifies the sense of community and drive to push yourself that is necessary to be successful in Crossfit,” DeMarco said. Crossfit just might be another “fitness fad” of this era — throwback to the 1980s, with an abundance of workout videos and brightly-colored spandex. Or it could be here to stay. With the Crossfit Games — a yearly equivalent to the Olympics for crossfitters — many gather that Crossfit, for better or for worse, is here to stay.
Call for Columnists
We are currently looking for dedicated writers to start a new column for the Features section. Interested in cooking, science or the environment? Why not write about it? Contact Coltone1@tcnj.edu with ideas!
Boost of nutty spice page 16 The Signal November 20, 2013
Campus Style By Jordan Koziol and Heather Hawkes Columnists
AP Photo
Foods spiced with nutmeg add flavor and give a healthy boost. By Ruchi Shah Columnist Nutmeg is a holiday favorite and is often known as the wonder spice. Such a title intrigued me, so I set out to determine what made nutmeg so special. This aromatic spice is native to Indonesia, but it also grows in Malaysia, India and the Caribbean. Nutmeg is a common ingredient in puddings, pies, custards, cookies, cakes and eggnog. Its health benefits are actually plentiful, hence its reputation as being the wonder spice. Its medicinal history is quite rich. 1. In ancient Chinese medicine, nutmeg was used for pain relief because it’s an effective sedative. Nutmeg was commonly used to treat abdominal pain and inflammation. The best way to alleviate such pain is by applying nutmeg oil to the area.
effectively combat halitosis, more commonly known as bad breath. Nutmeg is a common ingredient in many types of toothpaste. 4. Nutmeg can help you achieve healthier skin by getting rid of blackheads and lessening acne powder. Simply make a paste of nutmeg and honey and apply liberally to your face. 5. Ancient healers utilized nutmeg as a means of strengthening the liver. They weren’t incorrect. Today, nutmeg has been found to rid toxin buildup in the kidneys and liver. Nutmeg is particularly beneficial in preventing and dissolving kidney stones.
2. Ancient Greeks and Romans utilized nutmeg as a brain tonic. Nutmeg helps you focus by eliminating stress and increasing concentration.
It is important to have nutmeg in moderation. Curiously enough, excess amounts of nutmeg have been found to cause hallucinations and visual distortion. Other negative side effects include convulsions, dehydration, body pains, palpitations and heavy sweating. So remember to be careful. There is such a thing as too much of a good thing — it’s a bad thing.
3. Nutmeg boasts antibacterial properties and, accordingly, it can
*All of the above information is from fitday.com.
As the temperature continues to drop, we find ourselves disregarding our fashion sense and throwing on anything to keep ourselves from freezing. What was once a season of light sweaters draped over flowing dresses and high boots has now transformed itself into the bitter reality that staying warm and looking chic are on two opposite ends of the spectrum. But fear not, because a great way to stay warm in the colder months without looking frumpy is to incorporate this season’s vest trend into your ensemble. The best thing about it is that there are so many different types of vests — all giving you the ability to create versatile styles with one simple staple piece. 1. A puffed or fleece vest. This can be paired with leggings and a crew neck sweatshirt or a long-sleeved shirt to create
a classical sporty look when you’re short on time and looking for something that can fit your active lifestyle. 2. A brown leather vest. This is a great fall accent to throw on over a cream or neutralcolored sweater with a pair of dark-wash jeans. This look incorporates a little edge into an outfit that would otherwise be plain and boring. 3. A structured olive- or camo-print vest. Combined with a flannel shirt and chunky combat boots, this is a must-have for this season. This look can also be done with all black underneath to bring a little more grunge into the colder months. 4. A dramatic vest. You can adorn a simple, chic outfit with a fur vest of your choice. This is a more prominent statement piece, so it is usually a good idea to keep the outfit underneath simple and one-toned.
thecollegeprepster.com
Vests make a good transition accessory for cooler weather.
Dominator Pizza a wimpy takeout choice
Regina Yorkgitis / Web Editor
Cheapness of quick and easy dishes can’t make up for lack of taste.
By Regina Yorkgitis Wed Editor
After weeks of surviving on vanilla pudding, instant oatmeal and grape juice, my vital organs and I were ready for some real food. So, on Sunday evening, my friend and I decided to treat ourselves and order something American from the greatest invention ever: Grubhub. We chose Dominator, because with a name like that, it has to be great. Because I obviously don’t care about my well-being, all I really wanted was cheese fries and maybe a milkshake. But I decided instead to order a philly cheesesteak sandwich for the sake of this review and for my mom who might read this. (Hi Mom!) I had the option to add lettuce, onions, peppers
and extra cheese, but opted out. My friend ordered the chicken parmigiana special with a salad on the side. To top it off, we asked for Diet Pepsi. I put on my stretchy sweat pants and prepared for a meal of bliss. I was pleasantly surprised to hear banging on my front door only 30 minutes after we ordered. Shout out to the friendly delivery man who brought the food right to the door. For the $9.99 chicken parm and the $5.99 philly cheesesteak, the amount of food we got was a great deal. My friend got bread on the side of her chicken parm, which was a nice bonus. She said the salad with ranch dressing was tasty, but nothing unusually spectacular. The chicken parm
itself was drowning in spaghetti and tomato sauce and the container was leaking a little. The sauce was too sweet and the meat tasted soggy. The cheesesteak was lacking on the cheese to meat ratio and, as a result, was dry. I had to really dig to find the cheese. The side of fries closely resembled fast food fries, but without the overwhelming (yet delicious) amount of salt. Clearly, I don’t have anything against fast food fries, but if I don’t have a milkshake to dip them in, they are too soft for my liking. We agreed that the best part of the meal was the Diet Pepsi. Because the portions were so big and the food was only decent, we had enough leftovers for the week. I want to give Dominator the benefit of the doubt — these dishes were not their specialty. The chicken kebab sandwich, for example, is raved about on Grubhub. If you want a lot of food fast, Dominator is for you. Don’t be cheap and order that extra cheese on your cheesesteak. Even better, try the cheese fries for those of us who were too busy attempting to be “healthy” and missed out.
Dominator Pizza
Where: 2191 Spruce St. Trenton, NJ Contact: 609-406-9555 Hours: Mon. - Thurs.: 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. Fri. - Sat.: 11 a.m. - 12 a.m. Sun.: 12 p.m. - 10 p.m. Overall Rating (2 out of 5):
November 20, 2013 The Signal page 17
Gaga threesome could be ‘Bad Romance’ By Johnanthony Alaimo Columnist
Grab a partner, and swing round and round, because Lady Gaga is open to a threesome. The pop star/scientific oddity was recently on the Howard Stern Show where she was asked whether she would be open to having a threesome with her current boyfriend, Taylor Kinney. Gaga responded, “That sounds like fun! To be fair, he has stuck it out with me for a very long time, through drug habits and all those sorts of things. So he’s a really lovely, amazing person.” Gags refused to say, however, if she already has had a threesome with Kinney — probably because she didn’t want Madonna to get mad at her. She’d probably be like, “Gags is copying me AGAIN. I had the first threesome in 1904!” Honestly though, Gaga can try all she wants, but the only threesome that will ever matter is the Nina, the Pinta
and the Santa Maria. All I wonder is what’s Gags’s safe word in bed? I’m guessing it’s something along the lines of “YASSS! YOU LOOK SO BEAUTIFUL. YASSSSS!” I apologize in advance as this is yet another Britney Spears story, but someone has to make sure she’s OK. Britney in a recent interview talked about the “mind-altering” aspects of fame. If any sentence in the world ever looked right, it’s definitely one with “Britney Spears” and “mindaltering” in it. The singer/choreography boycotter opened up to Vegas Player Magazine and said, “This is the thing: I’m actually really shy. I don’t like having my picture taken. I don’t like the attention, but it’s something that comes with success.” Brit also talked about how she “never” reads what the tabloids are saying about her. And why should she. She’s too busy spritzing her perfume and running through corridors. If you have not yet checked out Britney’s newest single,
eloquently titled “Perfume,” you are missing out. Britney’s back bitches, and she is wobbling over to the charts. Not only are Gags and Brit milling around the media spotlight, but Mariah Carey has also peeked her head out of the Home Shopping Network hole she’s usually buried in. In a recent HOT 97 radio interview, the singer/professional diva talked about her past gig on “American Idol,” describing it as “going to work every day in hell with Satan.” Mariah, that’s not something very nice to say about Randy! Actually, the barb was probably against the Barbz, Nicki Minaj herself. You know, now that Mariah mentions it, every time “Starships” plays, I get a feeling that I’m on fire. Well, if anyone is looking to sell their souls, just put on “Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded,” light a few wigs on fire, and say in the mirror three times “Take your medication” and voila! Nicki will appear and make all your dreams come true. Why else do you think Britney’s doing so well?
AP Photo
Gags is willing to share her bed with boyfriend and other person.
Lies and deceptions behind water bottles By Neha Vachhani Columnist The bottled water industry in America produces many different varieties of water but predominately manufactures spring and filtered. When most people look at their bottle of Aquafina or Dasani,
they are unaware that the companies obtain water from free and public sources and simply filter out any impurities. In addition to many misconceptions about the quality of water, distinguishing the differences between brands can be extremely difficult. Many people claim they prefer Poland Spring to
Plastic water bottles hold dangerous secrets.
AP Photo
Deer Park, but little do they know that Nestlé owns both of them, among many others. The bottled water versus tap water argument sheds light on some very important factors about the water we drink on a daily basis. The Food and Drug Administration oversees the production of bottled water. Since most companies have factories in each state, water bottles rarely pass state borders, and this eliminates the water ever being tested. The Environmental Protection Agency regulates tap water, and although the safety of tap water depends on the region in which it is provided, it goes through similar procedures as bottled water does to be deemed “drinkable.” At the end of the day, tap water does the same as bottled water, at a fraction of the price. The plastic bottles that hold
water contain the chemical bisphenol, more commonly known as BPA. BPA can be detrimental to your health because it contains toxins that negatively affect many parts of the body. The FDA states that BPA is safe when exposure is moderate, but if the general public consumes the recommended amount of water, and all of that water is bottled, exposure moves from harmless to harmful. Not only are the chemicals in plastic bottles detrimental to your health, but they are aiding to the deterioration of the world around us. According to safebottles.com, in the United States over 1,500 bottles of water are purchased every second, and only 25 percent of them are recycled. The rest end up in landfills, lakes and oceans and never get the chance to decompose entirely. In addition to
the rising number of bottles wasted every day, the production and transportation of plastic bottles is significantly polluting the environment as well. It is no secret that the pace at which we burn fossil fuels for industrial purposes is harming the environment and that the corporation power plants and factories are to blame. The production of bottled water uses an inexcusable amount of energy and omits toxic gases into the atmosphere, harming the health of the public in addition to destroying the ozone layers. The documentary “Tapped” goes in depth about the bottled water industry and discusses the positive and negative impacts that it has on the environment, economy and society in general. There are ups and downs to every industry, so think twice the next time you pick up a bottle of water.
Human trafficking: prevalent modern slavery By Andreia Bulhao Features Assistant Whether in the United States or around the world, people tend to think that slavery is something of the past. The truth, however, can be rather shocking, as slavery still exists in various forms. Modern-day slavery is comprised of a variety of crimes that involve the exploitation of other people while disregarding their natural human rights. Today, this slavery is also known as human trafficking. Human trafficking can come in many forms, including forced labor and sexual exploitation of victims. Here at the College, Project Stay Gold and Inter-Greek Council came together to host Human Trafficking Awareness Week. The week featured a series of talks with speakers who work to combat human trafficking, as well as a game night and a week-long sale of trafficking awareness bracelets. Project Stay Gold is a club brought to the College by freshman communication studies and interactive multimedia double major Matthew Newman. The club is dedicated to fighting human trafficking, defining it as modern-day slavery. It was founded at
Newman’s middle school and high school in Jefferson Township, where he was an active member. The week-long event began with a talk in Roscoe West on Tuesday, Nov. 12. Speakers included Assistant Attorney General Ron Susswein and Dan Papa, the leader of Project Stay Gold from its start in Jefferson Township. Susswein began the talk on Tuesday night. In addition to his work as the assistant attorney general, he also teaches at the College. According to Susswein, New Jersey has some of the toughest trafficking laws, and law enforcers are trained to look for specific indicators of the crime. Typically, those who are trafficked have been found withheld in massage parlors, nail salons and restaurants. Other ways to identify trafficking include indicators such as living situations, the person’s inability to leave or the victim’s lack of communication with the outside world. Human trafficking is considered a first degree crime, yet it can become problematic to pursue such cases. Following Susswein, Papa spoke of his experiences with the foundation of Project Stay Gold. Papa revealed that his interest in fighting human trafficking began when he
was introduced to Love 146, an organization dedicated to ending child trafficking around the world. “I’m extremely passionate about this issue. Currently there are seven million slaves on earth and close to 100,000 in the United States,” Papa said. “I cannot believe this type of injustice exists in our world. That injustice really fuels the passion for me to do something,” he added. Papa explained that the organization began with his middle school students after a class discussion of the issue of modern-day slavery. Since then, Project Stay Gold has continued to grow. Today, students involved in the organization hold presentations for various schools in the area and have gained recognition from local legislators. Papa urges students at the College to join the cause and continue to raise awareness. “Education is more than just awareness. Education is prevention,” Papa said. “ All of you have a voice, all of you have the ability to be an abolitionist. You are the answer,” he said. The organizations also held a game night in the Brower Student Center on Wednesday, featuring a Jeopardy game about trafficking, in
which prizes were distributed. The week concluded with talk in Roscoe West with speakers working in law enforcement. Speakers included FBI Victim Specialist Alexis Kriegar, FBI Detective Paul Vanaman and Homeland Security Victim Specialist Lynne Wilson, all of whom shared their personal experiences with trafficking cases. In addition to these events, trafficking awareness bracelets were sold throughout the week with the phrase “tackle the traffic” and a picture of a football. This is because of Project Stay Gold’s newest campaign “Not On Our Turf,” dedicated to raising awareness of the trafficking activity that occurs around the Super Bowl. Statistics have shown that the sporting event attracts increased numbers of trafficking activity every year. According to Forbes, nearly 10,000 people were trafficked for prostitution in Miami for the Super Bowl in 2010. Students for Project Stay Gold are advocating for a traffick-free Super Bowl through this campaign. Members of both Project Stay Gold and Inter-Greek Council hope that wearing these bracelets around campus will spark a greater interest in the cause.
page 18 The Signal November 20, 2013
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November 20, 2013 The Signal page 19
Smooth sailing for men’s swimming team Swimming & Diving
Courtney Wirths / Photo Editor
The men’s team laps New York University and stays unbeaten, at 4-0. By Chrissy Onorato Staff Writer
After a short break without any meets for the swimming and diving teams, this past week was crucial as both the men’s
and women’s teams got back into the swing of things in competitions against New York University. The men’s team came out with a 168-128 victory to stay unbeaten through four games, while the women’s team suffered its first loss
of the season by a score of 195-84. Both colleges were ranked equally going into the meets, but the women’s team fell behind and are working hard to come back. Sophomore James Shangle led the way for the men’s team, grabbing victories in the 200-yard individual medley, 100breaststroke and 200-backstroke. Shangle was also part of the 200-medley relay team, which would take home the victory. Junior Aleksander Burzynski also had a strong day, finishing first in the individual backstroke competitions and helped the 200medley relay team, along with sophomore Joseph Dunn and freshman Andrew Nesbitt. Meanhile, freshman Ryan Gadjzisz took on and conquered the 100-yard freestyle and the 500-yard freestyle. The 400-yard relay was taken by the College as well, as senior Philip Hawley, Dunn and Nesbitt posted a time of 3:10.72. The women’s team put forth a solid day’s work as well, but fell just short to NYU. The day started well for the Lions. As
the women’s team took the 200-yard medley, led by junior Brennah Ross, senior Amy Schurer and junior Carlyn Hubert. The College placed first and second in the 100-yard butterfly, as senior Nina Sabatini and sophomore Sarah Richards both had a strong day. Sophomore Lauren Rothstein, senior Hailey Growney, junior Summer Thomas and senior Michelle Sanders led the College to victory in the 400-freestyle relay, posting a time of 3:49.72. “The team is the smallest it’s been since I joined my freshman year,” junior Katie Reilly explained. “That has both positives and negatives. Basically every point counts at meets, which can be a bit stressful. But it really makes our team rally and swim every race knowing that we need to get those first, second or third place spots.” The Lions have the opportunity to rebound this week on Saturday, Nov. 23, when they take on Stevens Institute of Technology on the road.
Cheap Seats
Chiefs riding good fortune instead of QB By William Anari Correspondent
The question has now been answered: The Chiefs are overrated. Entering week 10 of the NFL season, the Kansas City Chiefs remained the only undefeated team, had the No. 1 overall defense and an Andy Reid, WestCoast offense that just seemed to be clicking. But the numbers, in my opinion, aren’t a true representation of reality. The Chiefs have won nine straight, and don’t get me wrong, that is an impressive statistic in itself. But do they have any respectable wins under their belt? Let’s look at the schedule, game by game. Week 1: 28-2 win at the league’s
worst team, Jacksonville (1-9): Blaine Gabbert is probably the worst QB in the NFL and doesn’t belong in the league. Easy win. Week 2: 17-6 win vs. Dallas (5-5): Playing against a decent Dallas squad, the NFC East favorites, this was arguably a “good win” for KC. Week 3: 26-16 at Philadelphia (6-5): Not even the Eagles knew what was going on in Philadelphia at this time. KC defense dominated this game. Week 4: 31-7 at New York (4-6): The Giants have yet to start clicking and are just a bad football team. Eli threw another INT, and KC scored on special teams. KC offense didn’t need to be great again; Smith threw 3 TDs and 2 INTs.
Week 5: 26-17 at Tennessee (4-6): Backup QB Ryan Fitzpatrick had more rushing than any of the Tennessee RBs. Defense scored, Alex Smith was average. Again. Week 6: 24-17 vs. Oakland (4-6): Oakland signed Matt Flynn (Where is this guy going to finally land?). Terrell Pryor threw 3 INTs. Can anyone remember when the Raiders were good? The Chiefs’ defense dominated in another win. Week 7: 17-16 vs. Houston (2-8): Case Keenum’s first NFL start. Young gunslinger torched the secondary. The Chiefs squeaked by a declining, disgruntled and injured Houston late in the game. Week 8: 23-17 vs. Cleveland (4-6): Jason Campbell, a third-string QB, started and
threw for almost 300 yards. The defense saved them again late for KC, however. Week 9: 23-17 at Buffalo (4-7): Jeff Tuel’s first NFL start for Buffalo, the KC defense shined again. Alex Smith was held to just 124 yards and 0 TDs. Week 10: 17-27 at Denver: Peyton Manning lit up the KC secondary and the defensive line was nonexistent. Alex Smith was average again, but lacked the big play threat. The Chiefs have beaten only one team with a winning record — the Eagles (6-5) — to date. They also have compiled wins against teams that have serious concerns at the quarterback position. Denver was their first true test, and I think that they were
dominated on both sides of the ball. Moving forward with the season, the Chiefs play only two teams with winning records: Denver in week 13 and Indianapolis in week 16 — both at home in Kansas City. Alex Smith needs to step up as a leader and playmaker in order for KC to win, and the defense cannot let up the big play. Let’s see if Smith can shake the “game manager” title and become a “game changer.” KC now plays a San Diego Chargers team led by QB Philip Rivers, though, who is having a career year in 2013. Possible trap game considering SD is 4-6? Lets see if the Chiefs can bounce back after a loss and enter into the double-digit win column.
to put any points on the board until the third quarter. The Profs scored 31 before the College had any. Rowan was able to convert for scores on the first two drives of the game, as long drives led to a 1-yard touchdown by Withier Marcelin and a 7-yard touchdown catch by Todd Guillaume. It seemed like things were
turning around when senior linebacker Nick Bricker got an interception, but Rowan’s Josh Popper returned the favor with a 63-yard pick six. A field goal later in the second quarter gave the Profs a 24-0 edge at the half. After the struggles on offense, head coach Wayne Dickens tried making a quarterback change
to create some sparks — something he’s done before. It worked, as freshman quarterback Mike Marchesano came in and threw a 6-yard touchdown to Fred Sprengel. The score was unfortunately canceled out after a 40-yard touchdown sprint by Khalil Pierce. “When coach put me in the game, I was a little nervous,” Marchesano said. “After I had a couple plays, I felt comfortable, and I was able to help the team out.” Marchesano showed some optimism as a freshman, but the growing pains came, too. At the end of the third quarter, he threw the game’s second pick six to put the Profs up 45-7. Garbage time gave Marchesano a chance to show the coaching staff if he was a candidate for the starting job next year, and he certainly made his case. A 4-yard touchdown pass to freshman tightend Chris Napoli was Marchesano’s second TD of the day. He went 23 of 29 for 284 yards, two touchdowns and an interception. Sophomore running back Brad Young ended the game with an 11yard touchdown run. He wound up with 15 carries for 64 yards, while
freshman running back Frank Fucello was able to show his stuff with 54 yards on only six carries. Marchesano infused some life into the aerial attack, and that gave some pretty nice stat lines of the receivers. Sprengel had five catches for 61 yards and his score and freshman wide receiver Jeff Mattonelli nabbed six balls for 79 yards. “I think if we just execute the plays that coach calls, we can get going right away,” Marchesano said. The defense was not as sharp as it usually is, facing a tough Rowan offense, but it saw Bricker end a spectacular college career with 14 tackles, giving him 346 all-time — the second most in the College’s history. Junior linebacker Ryan Lowe added 10 tackles of his own. It was an up and down season for the Lions, one which they did their best to establish a defensive identity but struggled on offense. After a slow start to the year, they remained respectable in the NJAC. Going forward, the team has a lot to think about for next season with 15 seniors departing.
Football ends year of progress at Rowan By Chris Molicki News Editor
Unable to end the regular season on a high note, the College dropped the season finale to Rowan University, getting hit hard by a score of 45-21. The notoriously slow offense of the Lions (5-5, 4-3) was unable
Football
Photo courtesy of the Sports Information Desk
The Lions end their season against Rowan while staying above .500 in NJAC play.
page 20 The Signal November 20, 2013
Lions Fantasy World
Through the Uprights
The NFL’s last unbeaten team has fallen. This means that the league’s only undefeated team in history, the 1972 Dolphins, can perform their yearly tradition of popping the champagne in celebration of their uniqueness. This brings me to the point of today’s column: Celebrations in football. Are they obnoxious or fun? The answer is fun. I could stop there, but I already hear the groans of “traditional” NFL fans who wish that the ridiculously overpaid superstars would settle down and act professional for once. I agree with those fans in a very specific way — regular people don’t overreact and start jumping for joy when they perform their jobs correctly. But why don’t we? Celebrations are fun. That’s why we hold them at regular intervals throughout the year. Birthday parties, graduation parties, finals-areover parties … you name it — we like to celebrate it. And we do tend to celebrate things at work, just in more subtle ways than the antics pro athletes demonstrate. We have polite gatherings to celebrate a promotion, and I’m pretty sure the high-five was invented to quietly celebrate turning in a report at work on time. So when something great happens at work, something akin to a touchdown or a fumble recovery, why don’t we jump up and start dancing for joy? Better question: Why do we dislike it when athletes, who lest we forget are primarily paid to entertain the public, do what we’d all like to do at work and celebrate their accomplishments? I think we should celebrate that culture, not demonize it. The fact that there is a penalty for “excessive celebration” confuses the heck out of me, especially since touchdown dances don’t exactly delay the game with the clock stopped, and the revelers not likely involved in the next play. As regular readers might suspect, I have a solution to this problem, and I can’t figure out why the NFL hasn’t incorporated it already. Add a Celebration Zone. I mean, we already have an End Zone, and there’s plenty of room around the sidelines for a designated area to just go nuts in. Think of how many amazing things could happen if NFL players were allowed to get creative and celebrate their big plays in style, off to the side where they weren’t getting in the way of the game. Those celebrations of TO and Ochocinco would look boring and unoriginal in comparison to what these players could do if they had a place to really shine. Oh right, relating this to fantasy! Um, best celebration of the week gets an additional point or three, depending on props? I guess what I’m trying to say is that we shouldn’t criticize players for celebrating their accomplishments. Wouldn’t we all like to throw reservation out the window sometimes and just dance around? Pop the champagne, ’72 Dolphins. You earned it.
By Mike Herold Fantasy Guy
The Scoreboard
Team Shubiak (7-4) Owner: Corey Shubiak
Team Jha (4-7) Owner: Ashray Jha
Team Matos (6-5)
107 81
T 7-11 Represent! (6-5)
73 124
More Cushing for the Pushing (4-7)
104
Owner: Rob Matos
Owner: Sean Hynecamp
Owner: Tommy Lagerman
Team Molicki (6-5)
65
Team Gould (6-5)
107
Owner: Chris Molicki
Owner: Brandon Gould
End Zone Dancers (6-5)
88
Suh Girls One Cup (2-9)
60
Signal Squad (8-3)
74
Owner: Bryan Dunphy-Culp
Owner: Tyler Caccavale
Owners: Peter Fiorilla, Mike Herold
Fantasy Player of the Week
AP Photo
I May Be Wrong, But...
Here’s what I would do in Fantasy Football this week: Add: Is Ray Rice back? He had a pretty good game against the Bears in awful conditions, which could be seen as a return to what, before this season, had been his standard. He might be worth starting again this week against St. Louis, especially since so many running backs are either hurt or struggling.
Be Cautious Of: Counting teams out. Believe it or not, no team has been mathematically eliminated from the playoffs yet, especially in the AFC where nine teams are within a game of the wild card. With all the ups and downs this season, even teams like the Steelers, Raiders and Titans have a legitimate shot despite early, and recent, predictions.
Drop: Wes Welker. I know it may seem silly to suggest, but Welker sustained a concussion against Kansas City, so he may be limited for a while. And if his team does the right thing, he might sit until the playoffs. Even if he does play this weekend, it’s against his former team, so they should know his tricks and prevent him from doing too much damage. Look Out For: Broncos-Patriots. Two super-powered offenses and iffy defenses going up against each other for what could possibly be the top seed in the AFC? Add the factor of Peyton vs. Brady with Darth Touchdown aiming for Tom’s regular season TD record, and you’ve got a game that is almost guaranteed to be spectacular.
AP Photo
4 6
November 20, 2013 The Signal page 21
LIONS
AROUND THE
DORM 5 3
Andrew Grossman Sports Assistant
Brandon Gould Correspondent
Gabe Allen Staff Writer
Greg Oriolo Correspondent
In this week’s Around the Dorm, the “Ref,” Andrew Grossman, asks our panel three questions: What are the NBA’s biggest surprises a dozen games into the season, who are the Super Bowl favorites at this point in the NFL, and what will the impact be of the 35-year-old Ed Reed signing with the New York Jets?
AP Photo
1) What are the biggest surprises in the NBA season so far? Brandon: If the season ended today, the Philadelphia 76ers would be the No. 4 seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs. Just let that sink in for a second. This is a team that was given an
over-under of 16.5 wins by Vegas — the lowest mark in the league — and one that some expected to challenge the 1973 Sixers (9-73) for the worst record in league history. The thought process after the franchise shipped its best player, Jrue Holiday, to New Orleans for a rookie center who likely won’t play a game this season was that Philly had its sights set on the 2014 draft for Andrew Wiggins. Yet here we are, albeit 11 games in, and the Sixers are relevant, having earned victories over Miami, Chicago and Houston. Evan Turner is averaging almost two points more than Stephen Curry. Rookie point guard Michael Carter-Williams has been a pleasant surprise, putting up 17.4 points a game as well as 7.6 assists — just a shade better than what Holiday has done with the Pelicans. Heck, even center Spencer Hawes has been useful, pulling down 10.1 rebounds — 10th in the league — while also adding 15.6 points. I’m not saying it means much, and I’m not saying it lasts, but you have to admit that at this point, they don’t look like a team that is “Riggin’ for Wiggins” and that’s surprising.
Greg: With teams playing eight to 11 games this NBA season, there have been plenty of surprises in terms of entire teams and individuals. In terms of teams, it is surprising to see the young 76ers, Suns and Magic playing well. Even though their records aren’t superb, each team has shown they can hang in there against quality opponents, which was not to be expected on day one of the regular season. I do not feel that any of these teams will make the playoffs, but their success shows that the NBA is much more balanced than expected. Individually, there are several players putting up fantastic numbers, including CP3, Kevin Love and Durant, who are currently one through three on the MVP ladder. But Anthony Davis has taken the league by storm this season. Averaging nearly 21 points, 11 boards, 3.6 blocks, two steals and shooting 85 percent from the line, Davis has shown why he was the No. 1 overall pick last year. He has exceeded everyone’s expectations for a young guy and will be a key contributor, along with Jrue Holiday, for a Pelicans playoff push. Gabe: The Pacers are as likely as anyone to
win it all. After elevating his performance in the playoffs last season, Lance Stephenson has been brilliant in the early going, Paul George has entered the early MVP discussion, and Roy Hibbert has become a legitimate Defensive Player of the Year candidate. But there have been surprises across the board this year: The Knicks and Nets are at the bottom of the Atlantic Division behind supposed tank-mode teams in Philadelphia and Boston, and may be for a while given some injuries to key players. Portland and Minnesota are off to fantastic starts in the West. Kevin Love is putting up remarkable numbers and making his teammates better, especially Kevin Martin, who is scoring 24 ppg so far and playing his best ball in years. Anthony Davis is stuffing stat sheets and is in all likelihood on his way to his first All-Star game. First-year coaches Jeff Hornacek (Phoenix), Brett Brown (Philadelphia) and Brad Stevens (Boston) have enjoyed some early season success despite being projected to be league cellar-dwellers by just about everyone. And Aaron Afflalo is playing out of his mind right now for Orlando.
Brandon gets 3 points for mentioning 76ers success, Gabe gets 2 points for saying Nets and Knicks are struggling, and Greg gets 1 point for using statistics.
2) After 10 games in, who are your Super Bowl favorites from each conference? Brandon: The NFL season is 10 games in, and while we don’t know where any of the 32 teams will end up, there’s enough evidence to develop a half-decent hypothesis. In the NFC, the favorite pick right now would have to be the Seattle Seahawks (9-1), who — along with the New Orleans Saints — have one of the best home-field advantages in the league. Although Seattle has limped its way to a few wins against lesser opponents, the Seahawks have taken on some of the conference’s better teams — Carolina, San Francisco — and come out on top. If they end up as the NFC’s top seed, I’m not sure there’s a team that can knock them off at home, especially with Percy Harvin back in the mix. On the other side of the league, it will be hard to bet against the Denver Broncos. They have one of the best offenses ever and show no signs of slowing down as long as Peyton Manning stays on the field. There are playmakers at every position on this team, and the defense will only improve with the return
of Von Miller. Remember, this is a team that would have beaten the eventual Super Bowl champions last year if not for the Mile High Miracle, and the scary part is that team wasn’t anywhere near as talented as this year’s squad. Greg: In my opinion, there are two teams from each conference who may be the representatives of their respective conference in the Super Bowl, because all four teams are spectacular at home. In the AFC, it comes between the Broncos and Chiefs. Both teams have proved that they are legitimate contenders and home field will be decided during the two matchups between the teams. Whichever team comes up on top during these two meetings will get the No. 1 seed in the conference and subsequently make the Super Bowl. In the NFC, either Seattle or New Orleans will be in the Super Bowl, as they have combined for a 9-0 home record. Like my two AFC picks, the Seahawks play New Orleans in NOLA week 12. Do not be surprised if the winner of this game wins the No. 1 seed in the NFC and home field throughout the playoffs. Gabe: Ten games into the season I will pick the
AP Photo
New Orleans Saints to beat the Denver Broncos in the Super Bowl. With Sean Payton back on the sidelines, the Saints offense, led by QB Drew Brees, is arguably the most dynamic in the league. And they have one of the better defenses in the league. You could definitely make the case that the Broncos actually have the best offense in the league. But despite the fact that Peyton Manning, 37, is having a great season,
he is older than Brees, more susceptible to injury and has a history struggling in cold weather. Manning and Brees both have one Super Bowl ring, but Manning has a more storied history of performing poorly in big games. Plus, Manning started out the season on fire, but Brees has continued to improve and is in my opinion equally as deserving of winning MVP. I have to pick the Saints to come out on top.
Greg gets 3 points for mentioning home-field advantage, Brandon gets 2 points for bring up Percy Harvin’s return, and Gabe gets 1 point for pointing out Manning’s playoff struggles. not been able to defend the pass well. It’s a unit that is tied for 27th in terms of interceptions and dead last when it comes to passes defended. Part of the problem is that Gang Green has to rely on Antonio Cromartie as its No. 1 corner and give meaningful snaps to struggling rookie Dee Miliner — a piece they acquired in the draft after electing not to ride out Revis Island for one more year, an egregious error unless the Alabama product becomes a shutdown corner. And while the interior of the secondary hasn’t been awful, Dawan Landry and Antonio Allen have two of the Jets’ five picks in 2013, and they haven’t been superb. This is why Ed Reed comes into town as a valuable commodity for the Jets. He may not be the same player who struck fear into the league’s signal-callers a few AP Photo years ago, but if the 35-year-old can produce 3. How will the Ed Reed signing affect a leadership and even a couple of picks, his addiNew York Jets defense with a lot of holes? tion will be well worth it. Brandon: I first have to say that I disagree that Greg: There is no doubt that the Ed Reed signthe Jets’ defense has “a lot of holes.” They’re ing will improve the Jets both on the field and ranked as one of the league’s best run defenses, off. First, Ed Reed has played under Rex Ryan and they have a front seven that has produced and with Jets starting safety Dawan Landry. 28 sacks, tied for 12th in the league. It’s a top- Therefore, there is a very short learning curve 10 defense, if not great because the Jets have for Reed as he acclimates to a new team. Next, Brandon gets 3 points for using defensive statistics, Greg gets 2 points for saying Reed played under Rex Ryan, and Gabe gets 1 point for mentioning Jets-Patriots rivalry.
the Jets plan to use Reed in passing situations, so he will not be subject to the wear and tear that a safety is put through during running situations. This will keep Reed fresh and allow him to do what he does best: make a big influence during passing situations. This will make the Jets better on the field due to his presence during passing situations, which has been one of the major weaknesses of the team as a whole. Off the field, his experience will help the team while preparation and his leadership abilities will improve the morale of the team during down times. For example, in the loss to the Bills this weekend, Reed was seen talking to Geno Smith after one of his several turnovers on the
day, keeping his head up in arguably his worst game of the season. These small things can pay great dividends and may help the Jets sneak into the playoffs. Gabe: Ed Reed, 35, is getting old and has certainly lost a step, but the future first ballot Hall of Famer will bring leadership and toughness to a New York Jets team that already has a great defensive coach in Rex Ryan (whom Reed already played for in Baltimore). There’s a reason Tom Brady reportedly courted Reed in hopes that he would join his New England Patriots. That said, the Jets are at best a fringe playoff team, and adding Reed isn’t going to change that.
Brandon wins Around the Dorm, 8-6-4
page 22 The Signal November 20, 2013 Wrestling
Lions lose to No. 28 Stevens in opener Injuries pin College in annual rivalry game By Andrew Grossman Sports Assistant
While it may not have been an ideal start for the wrestling squad, the men — who have been struggling with injuries — are confident the team will rebound from a 24-9 loss to New Jersey rival Stevens Institute of Technology on Monday, Nov. 17. The sixth-ranked Lions headed into their season-opening dual meet against Stevens with high expectations, but lost seven of the first eight bouts before closing out the match with a pair of wins. “We had a couple of guys out with some injuries, so we weren’t at our best. But it was our first match, and the guys we put in wrestled well,” said senior Zach Zotollo, who is ranked No. 1 at 174 pounds. “Stevens is a better team than they are ranked, and we battle with them every year. It is our (Division III) rivalry, because they’re in New Jersey and we are in New Jersey, so it goes back and forth because they are a tough team.” Zotollo, who is currently ranked No. 1 in Division III, won by decision against
Courtney Wirths / Photo Editor
The wrestlers come up short in their season opener against Stevens.
No. 10 Ryan Dormann by a final score of 6-1. The other two victors were junior Nate Leer (197 pounds) and sophomore Antonio Mancella (165), who won by decision 3-1 and 11-5, respectively. “(Dormann) actually took a year off and then came back, so he was feeling strong and wanted to come back for an-
other year,” Zotollo said about his opponent. “It was nice to get a win over a top guy who was nationally ranked, and it was a good feeling to beat him.” Four days later, the Lions were back for an individual tournament at the East Stroudsburg Open, an event hosted by teams from all three divisions in a long
day of competition. While several wrestlers won matches, it was senior Brian Broderick (184) who did the best and placed fourth out of 33 wrestlers in his weight class. “This was a really tough tournament, and I think it was good that some of the guys stepped up and won some big matches and wrestled well,” Zotollo said. “Definitely some of the younger guys who haven’t seen out-of-division opponents — Division I or Division II guys — got a good look today and they wrestled guys who are probably tougher than they are ever going to see throughout the year. This Wednesday, Nov. 20, the Lions will travel to King’s College for another dual meet. Although the Lions are favorites, having won every game with the Monarchs since 2006, Zotollo stressed that they cannot take any team for granted. “On paper and matchup wise, they are a lesser opponent, but they are tough and have a bunch of good guys,” Zotollo said. “We should beat them, but we still have to go out there and everyone has to go take care of their business.”
Cross Country
Lions at NCAAs for first time since 2008 By Julie Kayzerman Nation & World Editor
You’ll probably see the women’s cross country team boasting huge smiles around campus, but it’s not because they love their workouts so much. For the first time in five years, the women’s team has earned a highly desired bid to Nationals, making them one of four teams out of the Atlantic region to earn an at-large bid to the meet. “It was probably one of the best feelings ever,” junior Tara Nealon said. “Especially because we qualified as a team.” After winning back the much sought after NJAC title, the women have had a successful past few
weeks that they look to continue in Hanover, Ind. this Saturday at the championship meet. The great news of their national bid came after competing in their best performance of the season at the 2013 NCAA Division III Atlantic Regional Championships, in which the 7th-ranked Lions placed a terrific third against 38 competing programs. “It made us all so happy to achieve that goal,” Nealon said. “It still doesn’t feel real.” With senior Megan Flynn leading the lion pack in the 6K event with a 13th place finish out of 269 runners, she put her team in an excellent position to receive an atlarge bid, clocking in at 21:45.4.
Nealon and senior Anginelle Alabanza followed in 22nd and 24th places with times of 22:05.4 and 22:07.3, respectively. The Lions have certainly made themselves known this season as individual recognitions have been pouring in. Head coach Justin Lindsey was named NJAC coach of the year, alongside five runners with allconference honors, including Flynn and Alabanza and juniors Nealon, Megan Stack and Jillian Monzo. The men were not as successful as the women but still placed a valiant 8th place of 39 programs at the meet, placing a spot above their 9th place ranking. Freshman Andrew Tedeschi once again carried the team in the
Photo courtesy of the Sports Information Desk
The women’s team races to a NCAA-worthy finish. 8K event. Tedeschi finished 30th in a
field of 275 runners, crossing the finish line at 25:50.2.
Lions prepared for grueling NJAC season Men’s Basketball
Photo courtesy of the Sports Information Desk
The team is looking to rebound from last year’s 5-20 season. By Mike Herold Staff Writer The men’s basketball season begins this week, and head coach Kelly Williams is pumped up and ready to see his squad in action. “I think we’re well-prepared for this upcoming season,” Williams said. “I
have to give the players so much credit. They made an unbelievable commitment in the offseason to get better — to play with each other in different leagues.” The chemistry developed in the offseason can only help the Lions heading into the season. “I’m very excited about that,” Williams said. “I think that’s why we’re all
so prepared, as well as we have so many guys returning from last year, so the future looks bright.” The Lions have eight players returning from last year’s team, and they and their coaches have been busy preparing for what will, by no means, be an easy season of NJAC play. “It’s never easy,” Williams said. “We obviously have a very challenging conference. I think it’s one of the most challenging and most competitive conferences in the country, so to play 18 out of your 25 games in that conference is not easy.” The nonconference games are just as competitive, too. “(We play) teams that have had NCAA bids the previous year, so we have a very challenging schedule, but I think this is a year where our guys are mentally and physically prepared for it,” Williams said. Physical and mental preparation will be key to the College’s success this season, when the team plans to use its big roster to its advantage. “We’ll probably have a game roster of about 15-16, so we hope to play an up-tempo style. We like to score off of
our secondary break and in transition,” Williams said. “The games are going to be called so much tighter, a lot of teams will end up in foul trouble, so at some point throughout the season it will become a game of attrition.” As a way of preparing for the quick play in a rough game, as well as to continue building the chemistry so crucial to a team, Williams had his group do something a little unusual in its last practice before the season. The team ran a drill in which it took charge from one another in a large circle, which ended with every player laughing and grinning as he did prat-falls after teammates’ half-hearted pushes. “I’ve always loved John Thompson and Mike Krzyzewski, their demeanors and their approaches to coaching — I think stern but fair — able to communicate and relate, and attention to detail,” Williams said when asked about his coaching influences. The grins might be gone by the time the games begin, but what will remain is the sense that these players really do like being a part of this team.
November 20, 2013 The Signal page 23
ports Week In Review AP Photo
Did You Know?
Like us on Facebook to follow the College’s breaking news.
The wrestling team has a knack for attracting topranked athletes. In 41of the past 42 years, the Lions have produced at least one All-American. In order to qualify, the wrestler must finish the season ranked top 8th in the country. There are currently two All-Americans on the team this season. Seniors Brian Broderick and Zach Zotollo are both ranked first nationally at 184 pounds and 174 pounds, respectively. Number of wins per season Women’s Soccer
Follow @TCNJSignal on Twitter to get all the latest updates and more! 2009
Team total: 204 Alex Spark 53
2010
Jillian Nealon 35
2011
Jen Garavente 34 Lauren Pigott 23
2012
Erin Waller 20
2013
Kendal Borup 11 0
5
ST U D E N T AT H L E TE O F
THE WEEK Swimming
Won four events against New York University
Sophomore James Shangle had a great meet against the NYU swim team. He won the 200-yard individual medley, the 100breaststroke, the 200-backstroke and was part of the 200-medley relay victory. These wins helped secure the meet for the Lions, who ended up defeating the Bobcats 168-128.
This week’s picks from the staff Point leaders
Pacers
vs. Clippers vs. Texas A&M
Peter Fiorilla 5 Julie Kayzerman 5
15
20
Photo courtesy of the Sports Information Desk
25Karpovich 9 Lauren
The Horizon For
Sports Cross Country November 23 NCAA Division III Championships, 11 a.m.
James Shangle
(NBA) Knicks vs. (NBA) Thunder (NCAAF) LSU
10
(NFL) Broncos
vs. Patriots
Women’s Soccer November 23 @ William Smith College, TBA Men’s Basketball November 20 vs. Western Connecticut State University, 8 p.m. November 23 vs. William Paterson University, 3 p.m. Women’s Basketball November 20 vs. Moravian College, 6 p.m. November 23 vs. William Paterson University, 1 p.m. Swimming November 23 @ Stevens Institute of Technology, 1 p.m.
Chris Molicki 4 Andrew Grossman 3
Wrestling November 20 @ King’s College, 7 p.m.
Amy Reynolds 1 Mike Herold 1
?
Signal Trivia
?
What was the longest down in NFL history?
AP Photo
Last week’s Signal Trivia Answer:
The last game played at Foxboro Stadium was the infamous playoff matchup between the New England Patriots and the Oakland Raiders. Although the Patriots won 16-13 in overtime, the game forever made history by introducing the Tuck Rule. This call gave the Patriots a second chance as QB Tom Brady eventually brought the team back to victory.
Signal
Sports
Women’s soccer moves on in NCAA play
Lions defense perfect through all 180 minutes By Chrissy Onorato Staff Writer
It was a scene of pure jubilation and triumph that took place on the Lions’ home field on Sunday, Nov. 17. After defeating Rochester Institute of Technology, the Lions knew they would be advancing to the third round of the NCAA Division III Women’s Soccer Championships. The team climbed to this moment of triumph by going 2-0 in NCAA play with wins against Penn State Berks and Rochester Institute of Technology. The team seemed more than ready to face the challenge at hand. “This game is crucial for us,” senior midfield Sloan DePiero said before the Lions played Penn State. “With it being the first game of the tournament, it is key that we come out as we have been playing all season. The intensity at practice this last week was great and we are confident coming into the tournament.” All of the hard work paid off big time on Saturday, Nov. 16, as the Lions topped Penn State Berks 2-0. The first half of the game was primarily defensive, as both teams traveled up and down the field but were unable to break through. The best chance came 15 minutes into the first half, when junior defender Lori
Photo courtesy of the Sports Information Desk
Women’s soccer reaches the third round of NCAAs.
Genovesi sent a shot down the field but missed the net by mere inches. Neither team was willing to give up that elusive first goal. By the time the second half came around, the Lions’ offense came out with more spark and began getting the results they were used to. Just 2:21 into the second half, junior forward Korrie Harkins stepped up and assisted freshman midfielder Sarah Marion in the first goal of the game. But the Lions wanted more. The Lions
closed out the game mercilessly, keeping possession in the opposing half and adding an insurance goal in the 88th minute. Freshman forward Christine Levering scored her 11th goal of the year with 2:35 left, with the assist going to senior forward Katie Lindacher. Senior Kendra Griffith was a sturdy presence in goal for the College and claimed her 50th win in net for the Lions. The next challenge for the College came the next day, as Rochester Institute
of Technology challenged the Lions. The College, though, shut out its opponents a second straight time for a 1-0 win. The first half of the game was similar to the previous, in which both teams were slowly gaining momentum, figuring out their plan of attack. The closest someone came to scoring was at the end of the first half when Levering laced a shot down the field, which was spectacularly saved by the Tigers’ goalkeeper. In the second half, it was sophomore midfield Taylor Lusardi who stepped up and scored the only goal for the Lions in the 75th minute. Lusardi converted a corner kick from junior defender Jordan Downs, getting on the end of the ball at the far post and hitting a hard header that bounced from the ground to the roof of the net. The Lions’ defense was able to hold off their opponents in order to give the Lions another victory in NCAA play. The Lions knew they left nothing on the table at the end of this weekend, having played some of the most nail-biting games this season. “Being a senior, every game could literally be the last, so we have to play that way,” Lindacher said. The team will get to compete together again this week in another NCAA game against William Smith College.
Lions on fire despite heartbreaking loss
Women’s basketball goes 1-1 in first weekend
Photo courtesy of the Sports Information Desk
The Lions offense averages 66 points in its first two games of the year.
By Gabe Allen Staff Writer
In sports, it’s hard to say whether there is such a thing as an encouraging loss, as the women’s basketball team showed while putting forth strong performances in its opening
Lions’ Lineup November 20, 2013
I n s i d e
weekend, which featured both a win and a last-second defeat. Though the Lions fell just short to Haverford College in a 50-49 defeat that came down to the last shot, coach Dawn Henderson was very happy with her team’s effort this weekend and expressed great
optimism moving forward. After shooting the lights out in their season debut en route to an 81-64 victory against Lynchburg College, where every Lion scored at least three points, the team showed its ability and willingness to battle until the final whistle,
regardless of whether shots were falling that night. “We had a lot of fight. It was a physical, exhausting game that went back and forth,” Henderson said. “Both teams’ legs were tired, and some of the shots that were falling last night weren’t falling tonight. Either team could have gotten down on themselves. It was like a prize-fight. No one could throw the knockout punch, but really what happened is neither team would allow the knockout punch to come.” The Lions had a lot of quality contributors this weekend, but Kylie O’Donnell was on fire. Through the first two contests, O’Donnell averaged 19.5 points per game while shooting a blistering 13-18 from the field, connecting on both threepoint attempts and netting all 11 free throws. “Kylie O’Donnell practically won the game for us at the end,” Henderson said. After Haverford took a 48-46
lead on a go-ahead three-pointer with 17 seconds remaining in regulation, O’Donnell drove the lane and scored. She was fouled on the play and made the fre throw, completing a three-point play to give the Lions the lead with 13 seconds left. But Haverford recaptured the lead for good on a jumper with 7 seconds left. “We played with a lot of confidence and showed we have a lot of fortitude,” Henderson said. “Overall, it was a really good weekend. I can’t remember the last time we scored 80 points. So, that was great. And defensively there were a lot of really good things I saw. You’re going to have games where you have to grind it out and grab one more rebound or make one more free throw. Credit Haverford for making one more play than us tonight.” The Lions will be back in action Wednesday, Nov. 20 at 6 p.m. as they host Moravian College in their home opener.
46 53 Around the Dorm page 25
Women’s swimming perfect page 19
Wrestling drops opener page 22
Men’s basketball preview page 22