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February 19, 2014

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Volume 65 | Issue 9

THE PACE PRESS SERVING PACE UNIVERSITY’S MANHATTAN CAMPUS SINCE 1948

Celebrating the

Black History around us

COURTNEY JOHNSON Features Intern

PACE

Pins indicate Black History in downtown New York City. Data supplied by Mapping the African American Past’s website, maap.columbia.edu

This year, a school in Northern California decided to celebrate Black History Month by serving its students a lunch of fried chicken, watermelon and cornbread. Upon receiving an outpouring of criticism, the school apologized—Needless to say, these foods are merely stereotypical representations of African-American culture and a very inaccurate method of celebrating Black History Month.

This particular incident is clear evidence that there is still much to learn about celebrating Black History Month, and in an effort to avoid potential cultural conflicts, Professor Denise B. Santiago, director of multicultural affairs for the Office of Multicultural Affairs here at the University has made the decision not to endorse history months through OMA, preferring to not put a time frame on a topic that deserves year-round attention.

“I made the conscious decision not to do history months,” said Prof. Santiago. “I think that Black History and Latino History and all of these histories that merit attention are still in the margins, so you cannot regulate it to a month. …The goal through this office is to do programming around the year rather than just having it for one month.”

African-American Literature Professor Ellease Ebele Oseye acknowledged OMA’s programming that celebrates black culture through recollection of their past events: “The Office Of Multicultural Affairs invited activist authors Randall Robinson and Edwidge Danticat to enlighten the Pace Community,” said Prof. Oseye. “Director Dr. Denise Santiago has also organized panels to address the wrongful deaths of Trayvon Martin and Amadou Diallo.”

BLACK HISTORY continued on PAGE 17

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NEWS Avonte’s Law seeks to protect autistic children Page 2 Tweet us @thepacepress

ARTS Fashion Week takes over NYC Page 12 “Like” The Pace Press

FEATURES Award season’s best dressed!

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CITY NEWS

February 19, 2014

CVS/Pharmacy quiting cold turkey CVS brings an end to their sale of Cigarettes

THATIANA DIAZ Features Editor There are close to 60,000 pharmacies in the United States, two-thirds of which are now owned by discount stores like Walmart, supermarkets like Publix, and drugstore chains such as Walgreens, CVS and Rite Aid. In contrast to locally owned, independent community pharmacies, which stopped selling cigarettes long ago or never sold them to begin with, virtually all of the chain drugstores still display cigarettes at the check-out counter.

Until now that is, when the second largest drugstore chain, CVS, has made the decision to pull them from the shelves.

When CVS announced on Feb. 5 that it was dropping cigarette sales, even those who have worked for many years for this were caught off guard. The drugstore chains had all been unwavering in their refusal to make such a move and give up this revenue. Cigarettes represent a relatively small percentage of the chains’ profit, but their availability lures customers who then buy other items. In reality, customers who smoke cigarettes are far more likely to need the medications and other remedies that drugstores sell.

The chief executive officer of the pharmacy chain CVS, Larry J. Merlo, described his company’s decision to stop selling tobacco products as such: “We have about 26,000 pharmacists and nurse practitioners helping patients manage chronic problems like high cholesterol, high blood pressure and heart disease, all of which are linked to smoking.” According to Merlo, the company came to the decision

that cigarettes and providing health care just don’t go together in the same setting.

They called the decision a “significant step toward promoting better health” in helping people manage conditions that are worsened by smoking. “Tobacco has no place in a setting where healthcare is delivered,” Merlo said in a corporate video announcement.

Smoking termination products like nicotine patches, however, will still be available at CVS stores. Dr. Troy Brennan, CVS’s chief medical officer, says CVS and their employees should be helping patients manage their medications for diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease.

One of CVS’ main competitors, Walgreens, which also operates the Duane Reade chain, said only that it has been evaluating its sale of tobacco products for some time and will continue to do so.

Also, Rite-Aid said it continually looks at whether its offerings meet “the needs and interests of its customers.” Both chains noted that they offer products aimed at helping people stop smoking.

University students had differing opinions. “I think it’s contradicting for them to sell alcohol and stop the selling of cigarettes. They will lose customers,” said Senior Michelle Perez. However, Junior, Michael Dolan saw this as a positive move: “I think that the CVS announcement sends a powerful message that if you’re in the business of health care you shouldn’t be in the business of selling products that harm you.” Dolan and agreeing students remain hopeful the CVS decision will spark a ripple effect for other pharmacies.

Yelp.com

Attempting to avert tragedy with Avonte’s Law CHRISTIAN GOMEZ News Editor Thursday, Jan. 16, body parts and articles of clothing washed up on the Queens side of the East River near where long missing autistic teen Avonte Oquendo had first disappeared. The clothes were the same size reported by Oquendo’s family and DNA tests were taken of the remains.

“It’s not Avonte until its Avonte,” was Oquendo’s mother’s initial reaction to hearing the discovery of body parts. The follwoing Tuesday the DNA tests confirmed that the body parts found were of Avonte Oquendo. A wealth of support from the people of New York was seen during Oquendo’s funeral as a line of strangers that snaked around the block from the St. Joseph’s Church In Greenwich Village. Cardinal Egans gave the eulogy to a full church, praising Avonte and saying he handled his disability with “nobility and grace”.

Moving forward, the parents of Oquendo are beginning to ask how this could of happened. Directing the blame at the Department of Education as security camera footage of Oquendo leaving school through a door left open by a teacher has arisen.

A lawsuit is expected in the coming months.

Senator Charles E. Schumer stood with Vanessa Fontaine, Oquendo’s mother, as he proposed the Avonte Law aimed at protecting autistic children. Oquendo’s

disappearance is not uncommon—50 percent of children with Autism wander from home.

The legislation would allocate $10 million for the program to give these children tracking devices to ensure there were about are always known and hopefully to prevent a similar tragedy from happening again.

The devices costing between $80 and $90 and a few dollars a month to operate will be offered to parents free of charge. The devices are designed to be worn like a watch or sewn into clothing ensuring it is always on the child’s person. Monitoring the devices and the whereabouts of these children will be up to the parents, the devices are optional to parents with children who have autism.

The devices would also be designed to alert parents if the child leaves a designated area including school and homes. This instant alert will hopefully lower the amount of cases to wandering children and it will also ensure if a child is lost the police are contacted as soon as possible.

Oquendo was gone for nearly an hour before the police were informed. These devices have been successfully keeping track of people Alzheimer’s disease and the devices have been commonly used privately by parents for years. Michael Rosen, executive director Of New York based Autism Speaks, who is pushing the devices as an option for parents said, “You can’t turn your back for one second.”

NYPost.com

CITY NEWS

February 19, 2014

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Killing of swans cause for concern for New Yorkers New York Parks leading mass killing of Mute Swans

CAITLIN MCNAMARA Copy Editor

nydailynews.com

“Invasive Species” is an intimidating title, prompting one to thing of some horrible bug or ugly critter. Pythons, or other reptilian creatures, are customarily the first species that comes to mind upon hearing the word “invasive.” The NYSDEC website explains their decision: “Mute swans can cause a variety of problems, including aggressive behavior towards people, destruction of submerged aquatic vegetation, displacement of native wildlife species, degradation of water quality and potential hazards to aviation.”

A disruption to an ecosystem due to an invasive species is no light matter.

These mute swans take in a large amount of resources, which take away from native species. If the swans force other species out, the whole food chain of the ecosystem could be disrupted. Also, New York is home to many migratory birds that depend on these resources when they return for the summer.

Mute swans stick around all year, eating up the vegetation that would normally be waiting for these migratory birds. It seems unfair that because of the popularity of the swans puts other, maybe less desirable looking species, in danger.

Because of the potential harm caused to native species, the NYSDEC believes stronger

measures need to be taken by killing off the swans and their eggs; reducing the population to 0 by 2025. Unlike the population control of deer, where only a certain number can be killed a year to sustain the species, the plan is to entirely kill off these swans. Some of the swans will be permitted to live in captivity, but will most likely be sterilized.

Scientists argue that the effects would be much more severe if mute swan populations grow as anticipated, and more difficult to control. “The dilemma wildlife managers face is that if they wait until there is no doubt that native species are being adversely affected, it will be much, much harder to do anything about it,” said Chris Elphick of the University of Connecticut. Although human impacts on habitat and native wildlife are undoubtedly greater, mute swans could consume a disproportionate amount of resources.”

Killing off all these birds may seems like a drastic decision, and many supporters of the swans have proposed non-lethal ways of maintain them. Sterilization of the birds has been proposed, however this is an expensive endeavor. Shaking swan eggs as a means of control has been suggested, and according to Wired.com, worked well when trying to control Canada geese.

Heroin epidemic strikes the nation NADIA ALKIRWE Contributor A heroin epidemic is amongst us, claiming lives locally and across the nation. The number of fatalities due to overdoses continues to rise just as fast as heroine production increases worldwide.

The continuous rise in casualties frustrates parents, families and police. Despite the various crackdowns on suppliers and increased efforts to inform users of the drugs deadly effects, the numbers continue to surge.

Young people now more than ever are making a crucial decision to involve themelves with the drug heroin. According to USA today, Capt. William Barbera of the Rockland County Sheriff’s Office claims; “They go to heroin because it’s cheaper. Now you’re seeing people you would never expect to see getting hooked.” Officials believe the crackdown on meth and cocaine may have prompted some to turn to heroin.

“They’re hooked on prescription drugs but when the prescription runs out, they switch to $5 and $10 bags of heroin,” Goldrick of the Rockland Narcotics Task Force said.

“We’ve been seeing this for years.” The recent death of actor Philip Seymour Hoffman has shed light on the heroin epidemic in NYC. The news came as a shock to fans of the Oscar-Winner’s death on Feb 2. Reportedly, the actor was found with a needle in his arm, and multiple envelopes containing heroin, in his New York City apartment. His loss is the most recent celebrity death from an apparent overdose. Young actor Cory Monteith, who starred in “Glee”, also died from a tragic heroine overdose, back in July of 2013.

Yet the problem is not just in Hollywood. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, “In 2011, 4.2 million Americans aged 12 or older (or 1.6 percent) had used heroin at least once in their lives. It is estimated that about 23 percent of individuals who use heroin become dependent on it.”

Those dependent on a drug such as heroin await great danger being that the drug can shut down a portion of the brain associated with breathing. There is no such thing as using the right dosage. It’s impossible to tell when you’re about to overdose. Consequently claiming the lives of many time and time again.

As the statistics demonstrate the rising number of usage and fatalities, the drug will claim more lives in our country than homicide. **There are believed to be at least 700,000 people in the United States who need heroin addiction treatment but are not receiving it.

If you or a friend, need help, Please call the (Drug and Alcohol Recovery Hotline) 1-888-299-5213

News.Streetroots.org Injecting heroin has become the most popular practice.

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February 19, 2014

OPINION AND EDITORIALS DISCLAIMER: These opinions are expressed by contributors (students, faculty, administration and staff) to The Pace Press. These opinions are solely those of the individual writers and do not reflect the opinions of The Pace Press, the members of The Pace Press staff or Pace University. The Pace Press is not responsible and expressly disclaims all liability for damages of any kind of arising out of use or relevance to any information contained in this section.

GLOBAL LGBTQA HUMAN RIGHTS NOW! JUAN PABLO CASTIBLANCO Staff Writer We live in a progressive western culture, where the majority of the population embraces diversity and practices tolerance. Living in this environment, it can be easy to forget that there are other places around the world where the situation is far more severe.

The Anti-LGBT propaganda law, signed in June

by Russian leader, President Putin, outlaws any form of LGBT expression within the country under the idea that because homosexuality is non-traditional, it is detrimental for the children. These ideas extend to other aspects of LGBT life, such as the lack of opportunity for same-sex couples to adopt children from Russia.

Violating the law can prove to be expensive for LGBT people; however, the violence and harassment that people in Russia face because of the anti-gay atmosphere nourished by the laws the government has set into place is much worse. Ivan Fedoseyev, a 21-year-old gay man in Russia, has been severely harassed in public spaces due to his sexual orientation, but never reported it to the police.

His response as to why he believes reporting would be futile, “The law gave a green light to homophobes to attack us.”

It appears that government laws basically banning homosexuality and non-cisgender identities is not enough to berate the LGBT community in Russia. Vigilante groups, one of them non-surprisingly founded by a neoNazi, have taken manners into their own hands. They locate men seeking same-sex encounters, then physically attack them, rob them, and further humiliate them by posting videos of these acts in social networking sites.

The people who report these attacks to the police tend to obtain very little results from the authorities.

Many of us have experienced harassment due to our sexual orientation or gender identity. The current situation in Russia, with people being beaten on camera, left brutally injured and bleeding in the outskirts of a town, attacked with harsh blows and malicious words, has such a profound effect to us at the University; a school that embraces all of our qualities regardless of gender, race, or sexual orientation.

LGBT harassment is not something new in America.

Many of us who advocate for LGBT rights do so because we have felt the physical attacks from those around us, and the hateful slurs that have been thrown our way have had a detrimental psychological effect, which in some cases, has one too many times caused the loss of someone who deserved to be treated better. This history of intolerance within our own grounds is why hearing the cries of anguish of our fellow LGBT comrades in Russia ignites such a fire within us. It’s why seeing the attacks and bruises caused by malicious groups and unjustified laws make us want to be able to heal the wounds of violence, and replace malicious words and ideas with thoughts and words of acceptance and tolerance. It is why here at the University, groups such as the LGBTQA & Social Justice Center, Pforzheimer Honors College, Office of Multicultural Affairs, Division of Student Success, Dean for Students NYC Campus, Stonewall Coalition, Lavender Ladies, Center for Community Action and Research, Counseling Center, Campus Activities, Center for Global Business Programs and International Programs & Services, “and the many Pace students, staff and faculty who stopped by our table and held our “From Stonewall to Sochi: Global LGBTQA Human Rights Now!” have taken a stance and raise

awareness” There has been great controversy over the Sochi Winter Olympic games, as seen with the comments of outraged people over the tragedies the LGBT people face in Russia, but also supporting the LGBT athletes and following the motto to “Speak Up and Not Walk Out”, which encourages people, world leaders, and corporations to support the diversity and spirit of the Olympics, but also to raise awareness of the injustice that takes place in Sochi. Companies that have spoken up include AT&T, Google, and American Apparel, and world leaders include German Chancellor Angela Merkel, British Prime Minister David Cameron, and our own President Barack Obama.

Kelly Herbert, assistant director of the LGBTQA and Social Justice Center in the NYC campus, spoke about the “From Stonewall to Sochi: Global LGBTQA Human Rights Now” campaign that happened during the second week of February, which addressed the injustice happening in Russia and across the world.

“We wanted to offer students an outlet to validate the anger and sadness that many are experiencing in the face of this continued injustice, as well as to demonstrate the power and efficacy of a community united in the pursuit of justice and global LGBTQA Human Rights.

We decided that a tabling and photo initiative that culminated into a group demonstration outside of 1 Pace Plaza on Valentine’s Day would be the first step toward creating awareness around these issues, and toward connecting Pace community members to information and opportunities to combat hate and stand up for all individuals. What better way to spend Valentine’s Day than to demonstrate the power of love in the face of hate and persecution?

The campaign had over 200 students and faculty taking a stance, boldly supporting LGBT rights across the world, and showing enthusiasm to end discrimination and move towards tolerance, and included statements of support from various student organization, such as the powerful message sent by Stonewall Coalition: “Those of us at Pace University’s Stonewall Coalition would like to take this time to address the issues surrounding Russia and the 2014 Winter Olympics at Sochii. In the interest of solidarity, community, and developing a global perspective and understanding of the ongoing LGBTQ struggle and experience, we wish to extend our support to all those currently facing prosecution and brutality from the state for their sexuality and/or gender expression in Russia under Putin’s regime, as well as all who currently experience the same oppression throughout the world. We would also like to take this time to remind everyone that the fight at home has not yet been won, and that many of us still face issues with basic essentials such as housing, education, employment, healthcare, and safety even within our own neighborhoods or families. We see this as a call to action to fight for the liberation of the LGBTQ community from oppressive laws and governments and social norms, the need for our freedom to exist openly, without fear of assault or abuse or persecution, and the need for us to come together and unite against not only homophobic and transphobic violence but all injustices we face, from misogyny and racism to labor exploitation and poverty. We at Stonewall Coalition call upon the students and faculty at Pace University, as well as all those who hear our message, to actively stand with us against tyranny and oppression, against injustice and hatred, and against the violence being leveled against the LGBTQ population of Russia and around the world.”

THE PACE PRESS EDITORIAL BOARD Olivia Beteta Editor-in-Chief Erick Mancebo Associate Editor Nicole Morales Managing Editor Christian Gomez News Editor Irene Schultz Arts Editor Thatiana Diaz Features Editor Omnia Khamis Advertising Manager Michael TJ Williams Social Media Manager Gregg Cunis Graphic Design Stephanie Hsu Faculty Advisor AliReza Vaziri Distribution Manager

The Pace Press is the student newspaper of Pace University’s New York City Campus.

It is managed and operated entirely by members of the student body as it appears above.

The Pace Press welcomes guest editorials and letters from students, faculty, administration and staff.

The Pace Press reserves the right to not publish any submitted material, both solicited and unsolicited.

All submissions must include the author’s full name and contact information.

The Pace Press 41 Park Row, Rm. 902 New York, NY 10038 www.pacepress.org editor@pacepress.org Copyright 2014

NEWS

February 19, 2014

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Molestation allegations return for Woody Allen Allegations arise post Golden Globes Life Time Achievement Award MAXIMILLIANO ONOFRE Arts Intern In just a few weeks, Woody Allen, a well-known American screenwriter, director, actor, has become a part of a large and resurfaced scandal. Twenty years ago, Allen was accused by his then girlfriend, Mia Farrow, of having had sexual encounters with their young daughter, Dylan Farrow. And as the month of February began, Dylan Farrow finally commented on the incident herself.

Nicholas Kristof, author of a New York Times blog, allowed Dylan Farrow to express herself on his pages. Farrow wrote about the incident as a letter which was meant to be heard not only by Allen, but by those who work around him. The letter begins with a note

by Kristof, who explains why he allowed Farrow the chance to speak up.

“So why publish an account of an old case on my blog? Partly because the Golden Globe lifetime achievement award to Allen ignited a debate about the propriety of the award. Partly because the root issue here isn’t celebrity but sex abuse. And partly because countless people on all sides have written passionately about these events, but we haven’t fully heard from the young woman who was at the heart of them. I’ve written a column about this, but it’s time for the world to hear Dylan’s story in her own words.”

The letter that Farrow published spoke about her discomfort with Allen and detailed the encounters she had with him while at home, with quotes such as, “when I was seven years old, Woody Allen took me by the hand and led me into a dim, closet-like attic on the second floor of our house. He told me to lay on my stomach and play with my brother’s electric train set. Then he sexually assaulted me.” She finished the letter by calling out to

other celebrities, and asking them how they would have felt if this had happened to them.

Allen responded to the letter soon. He stated that he had never done anything inappropriate to Dylan and still thought that this idea was a crazy as it had been when he and Mia Farrow had argued about it for the first time.

Since the incident was resurfaced, Ronan Farrow, another one of Mia and Allen’s children has come out on Twitter and discredited his father. However, Moses Farrow sides with his father, according to Allen. He quoted Moses who is now 36 years old and a family therapist by profession. “ ‘Of course Woody did not molest my sister,” he said.

“She loved him and looked forward to seeing him when he would visit. She never hid from him until our mother succeeded in creating the atmosphere of fear and hate towards him.’ ” Students at the University have come up with various opinions about the incident.

Jamie Dell, a sophomore, states “Dylan isn’t lying. Why in the world would someone accuse a person of such awful things if they weren’t true? I think that the fact that no one listened to her was what kept her quiet for so long but I think now she’s finally able to say everything.”

Another student, Ana Campbell said that she doesn’t think that the whole controversy is true. “Allen is a well-respected man and I think Mia was just angry at him. And now I think that Dylan realized she can possibly get money out of him, well, she’s going to try.

I mean, why she would wait. I think it’s just a bunch of lies for money.”

This all puts Allen in a situation of controversy which may impede him from getting the Academy Award he is nominated for. The story of Dylan and Allen is not complete yet, but only time can tell how it will end and who is telling the truth.

Olympics bring international upsets

NOAM SCHULDENREIN Contributor The 2014 Winter Olympics bring a host of controversy due to Russia the host nation. On one hand, Russia is a very beautiful country with a very majestic and aesthetic cultural history. That was symbolized by the strobe lights, fog machines, and brightly lit rollerbladers during the opening ceremony last Friday. Not to mention that the scenery in Russia is beautiful. It is complete with snow-topped mountains and trees. There are also many of other things that symbolize Russia’s general culture such as matryoshka dolls, vodka, and the many historical statues. All of these aspects make Russia a pretty worthwhile host for this year’s Olympics.

However, there are also a considerable amount of bad things that come with Russia hosting the Olympics. Those things include Russia’s various militant insurgencies, human rights violations, anti-gay movements, and a rather troubling history.

Those are certainly not small things. A lot of people believe that for those reasons, Russia is not a country worthy of hosting a big and expensive production like the Olympics. A lot of Russia’s policies are very harsh and unreasonable. That makes the conditions in Russia very oppressive. Therefore, despite the fact that there are some good things about Russia hosting the Olympics, there are also a good amount of bad things. That makes it not the ideal place to host the Olympics.

“In the two weeks of the Olympics, the world is one. The deplorable and oppressive conditions in Sochi make it harder for the Olympics to accomplish this. However, the Olympics have seen worse conditions before and undoubtedly will again. No matter the state of the host country, we will still be able to unite behind our athletes, our country, and our world for at least two

weeks,” said University freshman Carolyn Phillips.

This shows that despite the fact that Russia might not be the completely ideal country to host the Winter Olympics at this time, the general idea and purpose of the Olympics stays the same: the world and all of its star athletes being united for two weeks in a battle of athletic ability.

Aside from that, there is definitely a lot to be excited for and a lot that has already happened in this year’s Olympics.

For one thing, world-renowned snowboarder Shaun White was beaten on the snowboard half-pipe by a less well-known Swiss snowboarder named Iouri Podladtchikov. He has won two successive titles already and was deprived of a third by the Swiss snowboarder. White finally finished fourth in the event.

As far as hockey goes, the United States recently competed against Canada. The United States lost 3-2. Although they were leading up to the third and final quarter, Canada scored three goals and managed to pull off the victory.

In other hockey news, there is a lot of pressure on Russia to win gold in hockey especially considering that Russia is hosting the Olympics. With hockey sensation Alexander Ovechkin, people seem to think that there is a pretty high chance that Russia just might get the gold. Ovechkin said he is definitely prepared to try to win gold for Russia. However, Russia will have to go up against many other potential contenders.

These opponents include Finland and Switzerland. Finland has won the most gold medals in hockey since the Olympics officially opened to NHL players and they have some promising players for this year’s Olympics. Although Switzerland has some very promising players as well, it is most known for its goalies.

With some strong goalies, Switzerland just might be able to stop Russia from accomplishing the feat of a gold medal.

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February 19, 2014

NEWS

Seeking mutually beneficial arrangements Sugar parents seeking sugar children

JAMILLA VAN DYKE – BAILEY Staff Writer The “Sugar Daddy Scholarship” have been making recent headlines, creating discussion and sparking controversy within the last month due to the sudden popularity in a website called, “Seeking Arrangement.”

Before you get carried away, no, there is not an actual “Sugar Daddy Scholarship” where you can write an essay and receive large amounts of money in return.

Seeking Arrangement publicizes itself as, “the elite Sugar Daddy dating site for those seeking mutually beneficial relationships and mutually beneficial arrangement.” In other words, it is a social networking website that uses profiles and user information to create a basic connection between a sugar parent and their sugar baby.

For those of you who are not familiar with the terms a sugar parent is a financially successful man or woman who is open to spending money on “companionship” from a person, or persons, of their choosing. A sugar baby is a man or woman who is open to offer their “companionship” for a gain in relation to social status, finances, support, etc. The term “companionship” is often used in regards to sugar relationships to help legally differentiate both parties from being arrested, in regards to solicitation and prostitution. Although it is suggested and suspected that sugar relationships are sexual-financial transactions, if both parties claim that their relationship was a “companionship” no charges can be filed against the sugar baby or their sugar parent.

SeekingArrangement.com is making headlines now for modernizing sugar relationships, but has been around for years and has even been mentioned in magazines, from Forbes to Playboy, and on television shows, from CNN to Dr. Phil. The free to join, free to write website allows users to create a profile in respects to what they are

looking for from someone else. Similar to every dating website or social networking website, the user must use their e-mail address and password to create an online profile. Once the profile is created in the basic elements, the user is then asked to add a picture, who they are, who they are looking for, etc. After their preferences have been saved, Seeking Arrangements asks the sugar parent to fill out a questionnaire about how much money they make, how much money they are willing to spend, what they want in return, and whether or not they are single, married, or divorced. Conversely, Seeking Arrangements asks the sugar baby to fill out a questionnaire about how much money they want, their terms and restrictions, and whether or not they are single, married, or divorced.

When both parties fill out their “Lifestyle Expectations” portion of their profile, they are able to list their prices. The options are: negotiable, minimal (over $1,000 a month), practical ($1,000- $3,000 a month), moderate ($3,000- $5,000 a month), substantial ($5,000$10,000 a month), or high (over $10,000 a month). It’s these prices that attract sugar babies while maintaining a certain level of sugar parents.

Seeking Arrangement is not the first social networking website that has caused controversy. In 2006, a website called, AshleyMadison.com created a stir because they are a website that specializes in inter-marital affairs. Ashley Madison allowed married men and women to meet with other married or single men and women to have sexual affairs quicker, safer, and with more fun because, as their slogan states, “Life is short.”

Even though many men and women were outraged with Ashley Madison, the public outrage towards Seeking Arrangement is incomparable.

Seeking Arrangement is getting a lot of heat from all sides, but it’s mainly feminists and parents that are becoming angrier and angrier the longer the website

thrives.

Feminists argue that Seeking Arrangement is a form of online prostitution and bribery that is hindering the well-being of young women out there. Priscilla Pacheco, a sophomore at the University, counters this argument with, “I believe that a true Feminist supports the equality of men and women in all aspects of life. I support a woman who wants to become a Doctor as much as I support a woman who wants to become a Prostitute. Also, sugar babies are not only women and there aren’t only sugar daddies, there are sugar mommas as well.”

Parents are demanding that Seeking Arrangement be torn down immediately because they fear for the safety of their daughters. Junior University student Matthew Anson, wonders, “Will getting rid of Seeking Arrangement really make anyone safer, and should a parent’s fear for their children have a direct impact on the general public?”

Economists, on the other hand, are indifferent to Seeking Arrangement. A majority of Economists view the website as an understandable response to adults, on one hand, trying to survive and thrive in a lack luster economy without having to do physical labor, and adults, on the other hand, paying their taxes, staying within the parameters of the law, and spending their money as they would like.

In regards to Seeking Arrangement and the “Sugar Baby Scholarship” University Junior Sandra Glasper, had this to say, “Prostitution is one of the oldest professions in the world. In all reality, as long as there is a rich man or woman who needs love, affection and sexual release, there will be a man or woman willing to portray that love, affection and give that sexual release for money.

There is nothing wrong with it. It is the way of the world. Who am I to judge what two adults do in their spare time?”

Bill Nye defends education of evolution to children TRACI THOMAS Contributor A few months after “Dancing with The Stars”, Bill Nye the Science Guy returns to the realm we all know him best for. After inviting Creationist Ken Ham to a debate between religious and scientific thought, everyone’s favorite science teacher stepped up to the podium on Feb. 4th.

Nye’s opponent was the president of the Creation Museum, which is dedicated to explaining the origins of the universe through the teachings of the Bible, particularly focusing on the Book of Genesis. Representing the small population of Creationists within the science field, Ham utilized the debate to bring up an all-too baffling question: Can Creationists thrive as respected scientists? According to Ham, yes they can, “We’re seeing people being indoctrinated to believe that Creationists can’t be scientists.” Ham proudly showed his opposition to this theory as he called out to several of his Creationist colleagues, who are also successful scientists within their respected fields, to testify on his behalf.

Staying true to his Creationist form during his 30-minute long presentation, Ham combined scientific facts with biblical history in several ways. Claims were made that the Earth has only existed for a few thousands of years. The diverse separation of humans is derive from the few dozen that were punished by God in the building of the Tower of Babel, and that the thousands of species of animals and plants were able to survive the famous flood written in the Book of Genesis.

Like any scientist would do, Nye hit Ham with the facts and left the floor open to the hypotheticals. From visual presentations of the Grand Canyon, to a diagram of the giant rock that grounds the Creationist museum in Petersburg, Kentucky, Nye implies that Earth’s birthdate could not possibly be determined by the infamous 7-day plan presented in the Book of Genesis. Or at least, as a scientist, a request for substantial evidence was given, “We would need evidence that rock layers could somehow form in just 4000 years ... we would need evidence that somehow you can reset atomic clocks and keep neutrons from becoming protons. Bring on any of those things and you would change me immediately.” That being said, Nye came to this debate, not as a man to demean and disregard the beliefs of others, but as man who is open to different possible interpretations; as long as they are backed up with evidence that lie outside of the Holy Word.

As of Feb 13th, the recorded debate has garnered almost 2 million views on YouTube©.

When asking fellow University students if they have or will watch the debate, one responded, “I haven’t seen it yet, but I might. I love Bill Nye!” Many avid young social network users who grew up watching the Science Guy’s Emmy Award-winning show through the 90’s and early 2000’s felt the same way when learning about the surprise debate two weeks ago.

David Saracino Bill Nye the Science Guy vs. Creationist.

February 19, 2014

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Farewell Philip Seymour Hoffman

Boogie Nights (1997) NICOLE MORALES Managing Editor The world of entertainment lost a shining star on Feb. 2 when it was reported that Academy Award winning actor Philip Seymour Hoffman was found dead of an apparent heroin overdose. At the age of 46, Hoffman’s loss was a shock to many, although Hoffman had previously admitted to struggling with his addictions. An accomplished actor on the stage and screen, as well as theatre director for his co-founded Labyrinth theatre, the actor was widely acknowledged as one of the most brilliant of this generation. Acting in over 60 films during his lifetime, his roles have ranged from the comical slob, to eerily accurate portrayals of writers, priests and many more. In paying homage to his brilliance, below is a collection of some of Hoffman’s best roles in major motion pictures.

In Paul Thomas Anderson’s second full-length film about Los Angeles’ porn scene during the late ‘70s, Hoffman played a boom mic operator named Scotty J who secretly fauns over the male porn stars with whom he works with. In Hoffman’s stand out scene, he attempts to makeout with an unsuspecting Dirk Diggler, played by Mark Wahlberg, resulting in one of the most awkwardly funny scenes in the film. It was this film that caused Hollywood to pay attention to Hoffman’s talents as an actor that had both comedic and serious acting abilities.

Almost Famous (2000) In Cameron Crowe’s coming of age film, Hoffman depicted Creem Magazine editor Lester Bangs, a real life rock writing hero of the ‘70s. He is featured as a mentor to William Miller, a 15-year-old trying to make his mark as a great rock writer. Although his scenes are few, Hoffman’s Bangs was so eerily accurate to Jaan Uhelszki, former Creem Magazine editor and colleague of real-life Bangs, who wrote a feature in SPIN magazine about the performance saying, “I understood at that moment why people go to mediums to try to communicate with their deceased loved ones: It really felt like Lester was speaking through Philip Seymour Hoffman, and it made me a little nervous.” This performance was undoubtably the beginning of Seymour’s credibility as a biographical actor.

25th Hour (2002) Cold Mountain (2003) In this Civil War era film directed by the late Anthony Mingella, Hoffman played Reverend Veasey, who is introduced to viewers when Jude Law’s leading character, Inman discovers him trying to throw a drugged up slave woman into the river. Inman orders him to put her down and Veasey explains he impregnated her and was a pastor, so if he didn’t discard of “the evidence” he would be lynched along with her. This complicated, piggish and in more ways than one sinful reverend was without a doubt one of Hoffman’s most interestingly brilliant characters.

In Spike Lee’s post-9/11 film, Hoffman played Jacob Elinsky, a high school teacher with a crush on one of his students played by Anna Paquin. Elinsky was best friends to kingpin drug dealer Monty Brogan, played by Edward Norton. Though Hoffman was just a supporing actor, his role as the creepy teacher who secretly obsesses over his underaged student comes to an apex of awkward and creepy when she happens to be at the same NYC club as him. In typical Spike Lee fashion, Elinsky has his ‘floating sequence’ where he somehow gravitates to his student in the club and plants one on her.

Capote (2005) In his Academy Award-winning performance as brilliant American author Truman Capote, who pioneered the “non-fiction novel” with his book In Cold Blood, Hoffman gave the performance of a lifetime. He accurately depicted Capote as a brilliant man who’s demons never seemed far behind. What is amazing is that Hoffman, who stood at a stocky 5’10” was able to transform into a petite homosexual man who stood at just 5’3”. This is without a doubt Hoffman’s most impressive role.

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February 19, 2014

Beatlemania: 50 years later AMANDA PEREZ Contributor

fanpop.com

MUSIC:

The music world celebrated one of the most significant dates in its history on Feb. 9. This marked the 50 year anniversary of The Beatles’ debut on The Ed Sullivan Show. On this date in 1964, four mop top Brits changed music history forever. It was the first of three tapings on the CBS hit show, which was at the time the networks most watched program. “Ed Sullivan was a huge show at the time. The exposure this brought The Beatles really set them on the map,” says freshman Laura Sills.

When The Beatles landed in New York in 1964, they had already enjoyed the start of Beatlemania in the United Kingdom a year earlier. The release of “Please Please Me” and “She Loves You” brought the foursome into superstar status. When they came to America, they had just come off a year of four different tours in the UK. Before their fated trip to America, the band’s single “I Want to Hold Your Hand” debuted on the US charts, selling 1.5 million copies in just three weeks. This dubbed the start of the ‘British Invasion’.

An iconic tribute performance was marked this past Feb. 9 with a CBS broadcast of The Night That Changed America: A Grammy Salute to the Beatles.

This tribute brought together Ringo Starr, Paul McCartney, Olivia Harrison and Yoko Ono, widows of George Harrison and John Lennon respectively. Paying tribute to their late fathers, Dhani Harrison and Sean Lennon also attended. At one point, Dhani Harrison, a spitting image of his father, took to the stage to sing his father’s hit “Something.”

The list of famous faces that came to pay tribute to the Fab Four ranged from Maroon 5 to John Legend to Brad Paisley.

Between the covers of Beatles classics, biographies of each member were displayed, depicting their life leading up to the show that started it all on this date fifty years ago.

The performance, which will re-air on CBS, brought a brief, yet incredible union of Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr on stage. “Seeing them onstage, singing Beatles hits, was indescribable,” said freshman Charisma Duir. They performed

hits like “Yellow Submarine,” “A Little Help from My Friends,” “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band,” “Get Back,” “Birthday,” “I Saw Her Standing There,” and “Hey Jude,” which they dedicated to George and John. They managed to maintain the same youthful energy and evident passion that made them so lovable when they first arrived in America.

There was also a tribute held in Washington, D.C. at the Washington Coliseum. This was the site of The Beatles’ first official concert in the United States. Here, to mark the 50th anniversary of that concert, a sold-out crowd rocked out and reminisced as the tribute band, Beatlemania Now, played the original 35-minute set, featuring 12 songs.

In his own tribute, David Letterman initiated a Beatles week on Late Show with David Letterman. Letterman’s show is currently filmed in what is now Ed Sullivan Theater, where the Beatles took center stage in 1964 for the first time. He marked this with a week of Beatles covers.

His lineup included: Broken Bells with “And I Love Her,” Sting with “Drive My Car,” Sean Lennon and Flaming Lips with “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds,” Lenny Kravitz with “Get Back,” and Lauyrn Hill with “Something.” You can also see David Letterman on the Beatles special, interviewing Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr as they walked through Ed Sullivan Theater and reminisced.

As this anniversary is celebrated, fans remember the legendary music of four music icons. Many believe The Beatles changed music and paved the way for future greatness like The Rolling Stones.

It is almost impossible to find a current artist that doesn’t list the “Fab Four” as the influence that The Beatles had on the music industry was momentus. They challenged the establishment, advocated for peace and sang about the kind of world we dare to dream of. The LennonMcCartney collaboration changed music forever. Despite their 1970 breakup, their music has transcended time. We’ve moved from vinyl, to a-track, to disc,to iPod. Fifty years later, The Beatles are as relevant as they ever were and will continue to be for years to come.

February 19, 2014

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Miley trades twerking for cowboy boots Cyrus returns to old country roots in “Unplugged” ASHLEY SPENCER Arts Intern

On Wed. Jan. 29, MTV premiered Miley Cyrus: Unplugged.

MTV’s Unplugged is a mini concert where artists leave the electric guitars and auto tune behind in favor of an acoustic sound. In the past, artists from Aerosmith to Lauryn Hill, Nirvana to Alicia Keys and even Tony Bennett have performed an acoustic set for the series. Cyrus performed a total of 10 songs, most from her latest album Bangerz.

For her performance, Miley took the audience back to her southern roots, referencing her native Nashville several times.

The stage was made of wood and featured items typical of the country genre. Her band and backup singers were dressed in denim shirts and pants, cowboy boots, plaid and cowboy hats.

Cyrus opened the show wearing a red gingham bedazzled bodysuit, white cowboy boots and a blonde wig, later changing into a bedazzled and distressed denim bikini top and matching baggy jeans.

Once again Hollis Jane accompanied Cyrus. Jane is the little person dancer that has performed with her on several occasions, including the EMA’s and Dick Clark’s New Years Eve Special. On stage she also had a human puppet horse that helped to complete the country vibe. Even the audience’s seating and the big overhead light shaped like a wagon wheel were reminiscent of the country.

These days the name Miley Cyrus is synonymous with twerking and tongues, but surprisingly her performance didn’t feature much of that. While Miley did twerk on her puppet horse during one of her performances, it wasn’t the highlight. If anything, her antics could be considered docile in comparison to the Miley we came to know in 2013. There was crotch grabbing, grinding, and a strip tease, but it was significantly less than what we’ve seen at her other performances, such as her infamous VMA performance.

Perhaps the term “unplugged” for Cyrus meant stripping out of the image she’s perpetuated and doing something unexpected, once again reinventing herself. People seemed to complain that there either wasn’t enough cursing or that once again Miley has continued to corrupt an impressionable teenage audience.

MTV’s Buzzworthy responded to fans being upset that

MTV censored her when she dropped the occasionally F-bomb.

The Improper posted an article on their website Feb. 1 saying Miley’s collaboration with Madonna of their songs “Don’t Tell Me” and “We Can’t Stop” has once again put MTV in hot water with the Parents Television Council.

The PTC argued that the program came on at 9pm, a time when young girls would be watching TV, and was inappropriate as they saw Miley exploiting young women and sending the wrong message about sex. In MTV’s defense, they did issue a content disclaimer prior to the show beginning.

Cyrus performed eight songs off her album Bangerz and two covers, one of which was “Jolene,” a song made famous by her “Aunt” Dolly Parton. As a bonus she performed the Artic Monkeys hit “Why’d You Only Call Me When You’re High.”

Vocally Cyrus sounded great. While not particularly known for her amazing voice, her performance was enjoyable. Most of the songs she performed were the slower options and there was a noticeable difference in the quality of her voice and what she was singing.

Sophomore Anna Glazer noted that while she is a fan of Cyrus’s album, the songs sounded “much better acoustic.”

The show opened with her song “4x4” that usually features rapper Nelly, but Cyrus performed solo, not bringing out any of the artists she collaborated with on her album. Some of her more notable performances of the night included Singles “Adore You” and “Wrecking Ball,” twitter favorite “Drive,” “Do My Thang,” and “#Getitright,” when she grinded on the puppet horse.

Some surprises of the night were seeing Guillermo Diaz and Darby Stanchfield from NBC’s Scandal in the audience as well as Tyler Oakley and other YouTube celebrities. The biggest surprise of the night came when Madonna accompanied Miley on stage for the finale. Their performance featured a majority of the twerking, grinding, strip teasing, and of course Miley’s signature tongue pose.

When asked in an interview why she chose Madonna, Cyrus said “I grew up listening to Madonna and a lot of what she represented for me is what I try to rep to girls now, is not being afraid of sexuality and really being who you want to be and doing what you want to do.” So far Cyrus’s Unplugged session has gained 2.7 million views and counting. As of Feb. 6, MTV also posted the full-uncensored performance. If you missed the original airing, both versions can be viewed on MTV.com.

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February 19, 2014

Taking the stage

Little Miss Fix-It musical is surprisingly touching QUINN CORCORAN Contributor

On Sat. Feb 1, Pace NEW Musical’s Little Miss Fix-It performed their final show. When asked about the show, Linnea Summer, BFA Musical Theatre freshman, responded, “It’s a really cute show. It’s so adorable,” and she was right.

For those who missed the fleeting engagement, Little Miss Fix-It is an original musical with book and lyrics by Kirsten Guenther, an upcoming musical writer, and with music by Joy Son, a recipient of the Jerry Harrington Award and the first ever Shelley Pinz Prize, both for Musical Theatre.

The plot consists of character “Little Miss Fix-It” Nan, played exquisitely by senior Sarah Hollands, who resides in a comfortable New York apartment where she tries to escape the bickering of her argumentative parents. Nan is a frazzled elementary school girl who tries to control everything and everyone around her- including her unreasonable schoolmates, her irresponsible teacher and even the boy who sits on her favorite park bench.

When the new student at school, David, given life by the sweet Ethan Carlson (Sophomore), invades “her” bench, there begins the blossoming of innocent young love. However, Nan is not yet ready to share with her new friend, and she finds her boundaries tested, as she must come to terms with letting go of control. As her and David’s friendship twists and turns into an odd romance, Nan must also face the trouble brewing at home.

While the book becomes predictable at points, the audience will cheer for the cutesy charm of the show. The script is filled with jokes, many at the expense of the grown-up characters whom the audience befriends along with Nan. The book leads the audience to experience love and fear through the eyes of this fiercely determined child in a loving and nostalgic manner. Although it is easily to anticipate the turn of events as the young heroes’ relationship grows, it did not detract from the show’s amusement.

Joy Son’s score is filled with catchy, if quirky, tunes that capture the rock and roll of a classroom, the excitement and confusion of a first kiss, and the tenderness of navigating new relationships with new friends. As several of the songs emanate from the mind of our heroine, the score does an excellent job of discovering the imagination of an excitable youth.

Hollands gives Nan a great balance between her frenetic frustration and her tender fearfulness. Hollands’ Nan can be said to be the next Annie, a spunky young girl who isn’t about to give up what she believes in without a fight. She captures the

know-it-all 11-year-old many of us remember being, and she carries the show very well. As a graduating senior, this brilliant actress will make a great addition to the league of talented ladies out there in the business of musical theatre.

Ethan Carlson, following his performance as the geeky and spirited Xavier in last fall’s Lysistrata Jones, gives a charming turn as David. He manages to be both laidback and vulnerable as the new student who moves to the city after going to private school. He and his impressed new schoolmates have a fun time during the song where David tells them, “My Old School Was Better.” Carlson’s chemistry with Hollands is great, as is his chemistry with senior Andrea Ross who plays David’s nervous mother Gail; with good comedic timing and with whom he shares some funny moments.

Kevin Shotwell as Nan’s musician father and Katy Rea as her mother play their roles with maturity. They believably portray the couple’s quarrels while also sharing several endearing moments as the loving and concerned parents to their up-and-atthem, OCD-type daughter. Carlson’s lullaby he sings to Nan is an especially noteworthy moment. The University also bids these two talented seniors farewell this spring.

Bethany Perkins plays the family’s eccentric Latina nanny, Ana, with charisma.

As Nan’s wise best friend, she advises her with wit and gets her to relax and have fun in a salsa-inspired cooking number.

Mrs. Hallway, Nan’s maniacal schoolteacher, is given a scene-stealing performance by junior Ragan Pharris who tickles the audience’s funny bone with her take on the laughable loser in charge of teaching America’s next generation. Though an excellent performance, one may fear for the next generation of children lest a Mrs. Hallway teaches them.

The ensemble is rounded out by the characters of Nan and David’s school chums including Jacob Pincus’ as funny weirdo-pervert Tyler and Melanie Wildman’s too-cool-for-you popular girl Carri among others. Wildman also carried the task of choreographing the show with its exciting movement.

David Shocket’s lighting design neatly fits the show’s imaginative quality, and the set makes good use of the minimum, using only a few pieces such as a bench and table, allowing the actors to command the stage. Director Amy Rogers’ blocking feels natural, and one would hardly suspect that this cast and crew had only a few weeks to stage a full 90-minute musical!

Audiences were very fortunate to have the opportunity to see this well-done production of an exciting new work, and at no price at all. Wherever this show may go after being experimented with here at the University, it will certainly make for an enjoyable night of entertainment.

Living her best life on Broadway TRACI THOMAS Contributor She’s graced our television screen for over 25 years, built an empire between film, television and philanthropy that’s worth billions of dollars, and even owns her own television network, OWN. There’s basically nothing she can’t do; with that being said Oprah Winfrey is planning to grace the Broadway stage during the 2015-2016 season.

Earlier this month, it was announced that the revival of the 1983 play “’night, Mother” would star Winfrey in her Broadway debut. The three-time Tony-nominated play only features two characters: a woman struggling with her health, divorce and disappointment from her son, and her widowed mother, whose unsympathetic demeanor clashes with her daughter’s current down-spiraling behavior.

Winfrey’s costar is scheduled to be five-time Tony winner Audra McDonald.

McDonald’s most recent work was the live recording of The Sound of Music featuring Carrie Underwood. The show received mixed reviews, but McDonald’s performance was praised.

Winfrey has shown interest in taking the big step to Broadway in the past, so naturally she would take an opportunity to work with McDonald and Tony-award winning director George C. Wolfe (who directed Tom Hanks last year in his Broadway debut in Lucky Guy.) According to The New York Times, the two possible cast members were reported participating in a read-through of the play Wolfe’s apartment. Producer Scott Sanders also expressed his enthusiasm, saying that the two women were “pleased with how it went.”

Winfrey is not going into this project without some credits under her belt. Her most prominent performance was in Spielberg’s The Color Purple, which earned her an Academy nod for Best Supporting Actress in 1985. In 2005, she became executive producer in the musical adaptation of the film. Winfrey also co-starred with Forest Whitaker in Lee Daniels’ The Butler, which spawned praise for her performance and a BAFTA nomination for best supporting actress.

No report yet on when rehearsals will start, nor the location of the production.

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February 19, 2014

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Drag queens getting Kinky on Broadway

ERIN O’GORMAN Contributor Upon hearing that the great Cyndi Lauper wrote the shows music, one might be curious to see the number one musical of the year, Kinky Boots. With all its sparkle, glam and sass, Kinky Boots exudes the message of just being yourself through a mix of elaborate dance numbers performed by Lola the drag queen (played by Billy Porter) and her troupe of drag queens, the Angels, as well as the shoe factory owner Charlie (Andy Kelso.)

In the story, Charlie has just moved to London with his fiancée Nicola to start a life away from the English countryside, but is forced to return back home to the Price and Son factory of his father, which has recently become bankrupt. Despite how desperate Charlie is to leave home, he ends up finding his place in the very one he left.

Upon returning to London, Charlie has a run in with Lola (actually a man named Simon – this is later revealed in the phenomenal “Not My Fathers Son” number) and some thugs, which end up getting him knocked out.

Just when things are starting to get a bit dry, the next scene is a dance number to the catchy “Land of Lola” where Lola and her/his angels are introduced. Lola Porter,

in all her dazzle and shine, makes the audience fall in love – she is the star; without Lola there is no Kinky Boots.

Upon meeting Lola, Charlie makes an offer to design some sturdy shoes for her, since women’s shoes can’t support the weight of a drag queen. The rest of the show is then a mesh of clashes at the factory and fighting between Lola and Charlie, who at the same time connect in a way because they both have personal farther issues.

However, Charlie’s love interest here is the ever slightly obsessed factory worker Lauren, cue “The History of Wrong Guys” number, though the musical doesn’t focus on this too much. Despite all her sparkle, we find Lola/Simon has a history that goes inches deeper than any of her high-heeled shoes. The audience learns that before meeting Charlie she never felt comfortable outside her theater or makeup; in fact Simon as a man is very shy, awkward and uncomfortable, especially when he returns to the home he left behind and is teased by many of the factory workers.

In fact Porter makes such a great drag queen there’s time when one forgets there’s a man under there, especially in a humorous scene where she flirts with factory worker Don who flirts back not suspecting at all that she’s a man, showing the difference in the culture of London and the English countryside.

As for Charlie, we discover his father never had a lot of faith in his son’s ability to run the factory. This pulls Charlie and Lola/Simon together as soul mates – not in the romantic sense but in a friendship sense. On the stage you see how they complete each other and bring out the best in one another. The fact that they are different in literally every single way only makes the message of the musical more concrete.

When they first meet, you can see on Charlie’s face that he is a bit freaked out by Lola because he’s never seen anything like her before. Then with every scene he appears to become more and more accepting of her differences.

With Lola’s help, Charlie becomes more confident than he’s ever been, even gaining the courage to say no to his annoying fiancee Nicola at one point.

So with all the curiosity surrounding this show, University students question if they should shell out $50+ for a ticket to see the show. With a convenient TKTS discount booth down the street, The Pace Press recommends seeing this fun exciting musical performance at least once. So put on your stilettos and head on down to Kinky Boots at west 45th street.

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In Velasco’s capsule collection, renaissance woman shines through ALEXA MAUZY Contributor Mischka Velasco showcased her Fall/Winter 2014 capsule collection, titled “String Theory,” Friday, Feb. 10 for New York Fashion Week at the Top of The Garden.

The runway show featured Velasco’s women’s and men’s fashion ready-to-wear collections accompanied by a live cello performance by Broadway’s Peter Sachon and Seattle-based classical/improvisational cellist/composer Serena Tideman.

With “String Theory” as her fourth Manhattan show, Velasco has become a contemporary renaissance woman with her creative work as a fashion designer, bicoastal fashion model, exhibited artist at the Center on Contemporary Art in Seattle and punk band founder of Mischka’s World. Velasco also created Mischka Velasco LLC, her vision of a locally-designed sourced and manufactured fashion business, with her partner.

A rising artist to watch, Velasco’s runway show delivered her raw, creative and cutting-edge vision.

The collection exhibits expertise craftsmanship in draping and textile combinations such as cashmere and silk dupioni to create a collection that embodies modernity.

The intricate detail of the pieces as well as the incorporation of string instruments as the musical backdrop from recorded artists Tideman and Sachon, the Broadway cellist for Fiddler on the Roof, The Light in the Piazza, High Fidelity, Legally Blonde, South Pacific and currently Pippin, emphasized the show’s title and overlying theme.

Influenced by her meditation and prayer, Velasco’s 2014 collection climaxes her spirituality as a major inspiration and the final product of upmost beauty and refinement in her work.

“My fashion skills were not shaped just by design school but also by teaching myself,” Velasco said. “It is my life of being. Drape it, the way I intend it, it intends me to do it... gives me peace. Making a dress is something I will do in my final days with my dress form and fabric and I will stay draping.”

University freshman Desirae Hallstrom got a firsthand look at Velasco’s unique style, and said “Mischka Velasco’s spring 2014 runway show was a very innovative and unique show in terms of fashion and presentation.”

“The environment was very charged and it was an amazing experience to be a part of this show. I think Mischka had a very distinctive vision for her line and her background and life experiences really came through.”

The proximity of one of the world’s most famous fashion extravaganzas is one of the countless perks of attending school in New York City for many University students.

“New York Fashion Week seems to be the few weeks that New York holds its breath in anticipation for the energy. Excitement, creativity and emotion are palpable in the air,” Hallstrom said, “Everybody who is anybody wants to be a part of it.”

The Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week is NYC’s single largest media event providing an international platform for the world’s top designers.

Many other University students also found a way to get in on the action and glamour of Fashion Week. Student Madeleine Crenshaw interns for a successful fashion showroom and public relations firm. Among the tasks involved, she is able to help out at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in assisting shows for designers who are clients to the company.

ARTS

February 19, 2014

New York

FASHION A look at the hottest looks and upcoming fall trends

“Being able to participate in Fashion Week has been such an amazing and exciting experience,” Crenshaw said. “I feel like I actually am apart of fashion week because I have been helping out at the shows and gaining hands on experience. Whether it’s checking people in for the shows, or working backstage making sure the models are dressed and ready for the runway, there is never a dull moment.”

“Although being an intern in the fashion industry can definitely be chaotic, it is an amazing/impacting experience,” Crenshaw said. “It has definitely influenced my career choice, which is to be in public relations for the fashion industry or a stylist.”

The citywide event serves as an inspiration to students aspiring to get involved with the fashion industry as Fashion Week comes to an exciting culmination. From on the rise designers like Velasco to many famous household names in Fashion to witness firsthand, NYFW invigorates the entire city in an appreciation for the art of style and beauty. Even if one cannot make it to the runway this season, the aura of Fashion Week continued to invade the city in a chic and trendy spirit as the event came to a close in its last final days.

Photos by Alexa Mauzy

FEATURES

February 19, 2014

WEEK

2014

Runways strewn with Western influences, old world glamour THATIANA DIAZ Features Editor New York Fashion Week attendees were pelted with elements as runway shows by influential brands Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, J. Mendel and Marc Jacobs closed out the long awaited weeklong affair.

Americana and “Wild West” trends largely fell into place this fashion week, with designers mixing and matching inspirations.

The western-wear movement didn’t translate into full shotgun and cowboy hat ensembles but rather, countrified elements roamed through many of the collections. Michael Kors debuted an all-leather fringe skirt, Rebecca Minkoff had tasseled booties, Rag & Bone featured a buffalo-check mohair coat, and Derek Lam showed a patchwork skirt of green, black and brown leather squares.

Meanwhile, Coach revealed its first ready-to-wear collection under the direction of the company’s new Executive Creative Director, Stuart Vevers, with leather and wool outerwear, along with fringeflapped and leather cross-body bags to accessorize. Cushnie et Ochs,

by Carly Cushnie and Michelle Ochs, paired many of its plunging silhouettes with black cowboy hats. Australian Dion Lee explored his roots with crocodile hide and snakeskin detailing and convictuniform-inspired gray pieces.

In addition to fringe benefits, fall will come equipped with cozy knits and comfortable layers. Variations on the poncho coat were shown

by Nanette Lepore, Thakoon and Tommy Hilfiger, among others. The Row, by Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen, wrapped models in cashmere capes and funnel-neck sweaters.

As predicted, women’s wear looked toward the menswear sector— pristine tailoring in suit jackets and trousers, sensible oxfords and glittering loafers. A clear message

for the fall: Snug can be sexy, but less skin is more in Fall 2014.

But, of course, there’s always room for old world glamour: Pamella Roland, Reem Acra, Badgley Mischka and Carolina Herrera played with boldly sequined and patterned evening dresses. Zac Posen’s grand ballgowns in teal, black, periwinkle, orange and red barely fit down the runway. Erin Fetherston based her collection on the mid-century glamour of Grace Kelly, pairing ball skirts with delicate, pearllined tulle gloves designed

by Hardly Alice.

Meanwhile, Rebecca Taylor, Phillip Lim, Tibi and Marc Jacobs played with spring pastels in powder blues and purples. Jacobs showed his collection amid a backdrop of hanging clouds.

The Rodarte collection was invaded by dresses printed with images of Luke Skywalker, Yoda, and the Death Star. Jeremy Scott went sporty with full length furry jersey dresses, tube socks and Madballs prints: a freaky, popular toy from the ‘80s.There was also the return of the supermodel to the runway: Coco Rocha walked for Zac Posen, and Victoria’s Secret angels strutted too— Karolina Kurkova for Cushnie et Ochs, Adriana Lima for Jason Wu and Candice Swanepoel for Desigual.

Of course, we can’t talk about Fashion Week without a few spectacles: A streaker at Prabal Gurung was tackled on the runway, a wall dripped with melted chocolate at Opening Ceremony (just in time for Valentine’s Day), and a stage rotated with models in Brooklyn for Alexander Wang. Diane Von Furstenberg celebrated 40 years in the business, while Donna Karan celebrated 30. We expect these mainstays to come on strong come fall at the spring and summer shows.

Rebecca Minkoff’s collection showed Western-inspired outfits. thebestfashionblog.com

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Fall/Winter 2014 Beauty Trends MAXIMILLIANO ONOFRE Arts Intern With the latest fashion trends coming out of New York Fashion Week just recently, it is no surprise that it’s time to gear up for the fall’s beauty trends as well. From lightly done eyes to vibrant lipsticks, this fall will be playing on the winter colors—light and natural.

Effortless Hair This year, model after model came out with simple hair. Messy and windswept were the key words for the looks of the season. Get ready for many days of fun and playful bedhead in the upcoming fall.

Slick Hair and Side Parts If a messy bedhead isn’t your thing, then maybe it’s time to gear up and get ready for another easy-todo look—slick hair. This year, the catwalk was filled with straightforward, slicked back hair. However, this style came with a simple appeal, and side parts were the cherry on top of this beautiful look.

Low blond tips Of course, models who had a signature look, like Mara Hoffman, still included their own style with the trend of messy hair. Hoffman however, brought in a whole new look that no one thought of until now. She walked the runway sporting very low braid with a simple gold tip and that was all it took to capture everyone’s attention.

Bare Eyes The upcoming fall is about to be a welcome surprise for many women. Keeping with the simplicity theme, a nude eye shadow that plays with the eye’s natural shapes and shadows is the latest trend. Only a light shimmer or a rose stained color is needed to bring out your eyes.

Bold Eyeliner Another fun and never ending trend is the cat eye eyeliner, which was brought onto the runway by many designers. Bold and deep, this trend is definitely one that you can follow when adding a few accents to your eyes becomes necessary.

Violet Contrast If you want to add a little color to your life, violet is the go-to pick for eyes. A risky color, as it can easily make you look more tired than you’ve ever been, was displayed perfectly at the shows.

Glamorous and as royal as can be, this new trend is here to stay.

Full Eyebrows Full eyebrows are in the game plan for the fall.

Many models walked the runway with a bold and heavy eyebrow look, a contrast to the unassertive eyes we usually see. Full, natural and undefined by lines were the biggest hits of this look, a pleasant welcome for those who aren’t fans of getting their brows done religiously.

Orange Lips Orange lipstick made its way back onto the runway. It seems to be staying around, for those who fell in love with the joyous color. And of course, this is the bright beautiful orange of the spring; so don’t worry about changing your lipstick when the weather changes.

Berry Lips Following in the role of the violet eyes, berry stained lips were everywhere this fashion week. A sultry fusion of red and blue, this new trend is one that will definitely stain the minds of many for their fall choices. A lovely contrast to the light and simple trends, this one might be sticking around for a while.

Nude nails Following with the all-natural trend, nude nails are in for the fall. However, this doesn’t mean to skimp on the manicures. Instead go with a lightly colored beige or soft pink to hit the right color for the season.

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FEATURES

February 19, 2014

Finding love after Valentine’s Day Tips to getting you one step closer to finding the one

THATIANA DIAZ Features Editor They say college is the usually the time where you meet the person you’re marrying but it isn’t as easy as it’s made out to be. Topics that affect college students who are looking for love and hoping for longevity in their relationships include: does he like me, or how do I find love to begin with. Since university life can be quite crucial for any student, the entire process of falling in love can be a challenging experience.

Although they may be eager to discover love that can last for a lifetime, there are certain things that must be taken into consideration before diving in to a relationship.

When one longs for finding the love of their life, all steps must be handled with an open mind and a sense of maturity. Otherwise, it is possible for anyone to get caught up in an unending cycle of falling in and out of love easily, where finding love seems impossible. For a person with little relationship experience in life, it makes perfect sense to get practical tips from experts who understand more about this topic but it can be as simple as stepping out and starting a new activity. The Pace Press shares their tips on how to find love: 1. Keep things in perspective Don’t make your search for love the center of your life. It usually comes when you least expect it. Concentrate on activities you enjoy, your career, and relationships with family and friends. When you focus on keeping yourself happy, it will keep yourself balanced and make you ready for a relationship when it comes. Remember that regardless of where or how you meet someone; it always takes time to really get to know that person. Be patient. Lastly, don’t be too quick to make a relationship sexual as it often becomes harder to develop a good relationship afterwards. Even though it can be difficult in this day and age, try to take your time and get to know someone first.

2. Put priority on having fun Online dating, singles events, and matching making services like speed dating may prove successful and enjoyable for some people, so why not try it? FIT’s PRSSA Chapter will be hosting their 5th Annual Speed Dating Event on Thursday, March 6th, 2014 from 6:30pm to 10pm. All students in and around the New York City area

are welcome to the event. (More information can be found on www.facebook.com/ AMatchMadeOnSeventh). If you’re not into those services, think of your time as a single person as a great opportunity to meet new people, expand your social circle, and participate in new events. Instead of scouring dating sites or hanging in bars, find and participate in activities that interest you. Just by putting yourself in a new environment it’s likely you’ll meet new people who share similar interests.

3. Learn to handle rejection gracefully At some point, everyone looking for love is going to have to deal with rejection— both as the person being rejected and the person doing the rejecting. By staying positive and being honest with yourself and others, handling rejection can be far less intimidating. The key is to accept that rejection is an inevitable part of dating but to not spend too much time worrying about it. It’s never fatal.

4. Use technology wisely A new breed of dating services is making headway with the younger and more carefree demographic. These apps are available first or only on smartphones. They rely heavily on chance and the immediate proximity of fellow users. They also deliver quick acceptance or dismissal, rather than courtships gamed out over lengthy questionnaires that are aimed at predicting longer-term compatibility. Try apps like Date my School — this app merges the experience of a traditional dating site with the new breed of apps’ focus on user location. The app functions like a gated campus, allowing users to search for singles that are either current students or alumni of your current school. To keep out creeps or frauds, you’ll need an .edu email address to prove that you are a current student, or a match in the alumni records of your selected university to prove that you actually attended classes. Once you’re in, you can find coeds on your campus who share your interests, all without stepping out of your dorm room or actually talking to anybody.

University students shared their advice on how to find love. “You have to be open to try new things. If you stay closed-minded, it’s going to be hard to find love,” says senior Jonathan Rivera. Senior Arjun Singh said, “Fall in love with your best friend,” while junior Raj Rai thinks you need “to let love find you.”

polyvore.com

The right time to drop the “L bomb” How one student’s experience can save you from saying I Love You too soon TSIVYA MILLER Contributor Recently, I had a slightly awkward yet comical end to a phone conversation I was having with my boyfriend. Instead of saying bye I said,”Love you”, then freaked out and tried, but failed, to hang up the phone. It turns out he didn’t hear me, but this caused us to have a conversation about love, and also caused me to think about the ‘L-bomb’ and when it should be dropped.

There are differing opinions on how many months a couple should be together before they say it. Then there is always the issue of who says it first. Based on various discussions I have had and relationships I have seen, there is no right time frame before you can say, “I love you.” However, I think that if someone says “I love you” after a week that may actually be too soon in the relationship, and it may feel as if a bomb has been dropped.

Love also means something different at different points in our lives. According to Amanda Ghosh, a junior, “The meaning and feeling of love is created and shared differently between every couple. So I think that when you say, “I love you” to someone, it completely ranges from experience to experience, especially if people have different definitions of love. For example, love being the falling, honeymoon feeling at the beginning of a relationship or love being the connection and commitment built out of time and loyalty to a person.”

The 5 ways you know you’re ready to say “I Love You”

1. When you would wake up early in the morning for them (and you’re not a morning person).

2. When you say I miss you and mean it.

3. It’s not just the sex, although the sex is amazing.

4. You want them to meet the people you care about.

5. You think about the future, and include them in it.

Lauryn Matovich, senior, says that you could say it “When you’re drunk. Or after sex.” If you choose to say it at one of these times chance are that the other person either won’t take you seriously or won’t remember, so that could be a good thing depending on whether you want them to think it was serious or not.

In regards to heterosexual relationships, many people I asked say that it doesn’t matter who says it first. But, many people say that there is pressure to say, “I love you” back to the person even if you don’t really mean it. Plenty of women have the tendency to becoming used to saying “love you” or “love ya” in casual conversation with friends and family, but in a romantic way these words are seen as having a completely different meaning. “I love you” is really “I am IN love with you”, which I think carries more weight.

February 19, 2014

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Super Bowl advertisement’s diversity sparks controversy

CAITLIN MACNAMARA Copy Editor For those who partook in Super Bowl festivities, there were likely only two reasons that motivated one to join in on the fun; the halftime show and the commercials. The halftime show can go either way for some, but the commercials have become an integral part of the Super Bowl tradition. The commercials, which can cost a company millions of dollars just for the airtime, usually range from hilarious to disastrous—and this year there were unfortunately more flops than winners.

Companies that had debuted raunchy, or downright disgusting ads came off as tame, such as GoDaddy.com. The premise of GoDaddy. com’s commercial was a woman publicly quitting her job so she could go on to open her own puppet business, using GoDaddy.com as a resource. It was lack luster, but it was better than watching Bar Refaeli making out with a nerdy guy.

Even though the ads were relatively tame, there was still some controversy over some.

Recent commercial taboo would lead a viewer to think Cheerios would bring the controversy.

Last spring, they featured an interracial family in their commercial, which caused quite the scandal. For the Super Bowl, they brought back this adorable family with the premise being father and daughter making a bargain—a new sibling equals a new puppy.

However, the potential Cheerios controversy was overshadowed by uproar caused by CocaCola’s ad titled “It’s Beautiful.” Featuring the patriotic song “America the Beautiful,” sung in several different languages, the ad featured a number of the different ethnicities and families that make up our country. The main complaint is that a classically American song shouldn’t be sung in languages other than English. Another major complaint was the inclusion of a family with two fathers roller-skating with their little girl. The featuring of a gay couple was a historic moment for the Super Bowl, as this is the first ad to ever do so.

While some were angry that a gay couple was featured, others found Coca-Cola’s marketing to be in vain. Due to Coca-Cola’s sponsorship of the 2014 Sochi Olympics, some thought the ad was not doing enough. Russia has recently been in the news due to their antigay legislations, which have sparked much debate, with some calling for a boycott of the Olympics. Dan Savage, author of sex advice column ‘Savage Love’ tweeted, “Now, @ CocaCola? Put a pair of Russian gay dads in an ad that you run in Russia—during the Olympics. #CheersToSochi.”

salon.com

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FEATURES

February 19, 2014

Spotlight: Communications major opens doors for students Internship opportunities, jobs at Seventeen, Vogue entice students MELISSA VARGAS Features Intern The amount of students opting to identify as a communications study major is becoming increasingly popular among the University’s students. This may very well be because the program is packed with a wide variety of classes ranging from mass media courses to persuasive speaking. Many students are realizing that a Bachelor of Arts in communications studies can open the doors to different opportunities in several industries. With a communications degree, students have the option of various different internships and jobs as well, including publications, radio, television, and public relations. Many students with a concentration in communications studies have interned for companies such as Viacom, ABC, NBC, CBS, Alison Brod Pr, Seventeen, Latina, and Vogue Senior Stephanie Araujo stated, “In these last four years the I have been in the program, I have seen the department go through schedule changes, new hires, and struggle with classroom placements because the communications program is the second largest growing major in the University. But despite these hardships, the faculty has shown that their best interest is in the student’s education, making the department one of the best.” The Pace Press was able to interview the head of the communication studies department, Dr. Kolluri Satish, who shared his opinions and insiders on the program.

The Pace Press: What makes the University’s communication studies major unique?

Dr. Kolluri: I think that ours is a department that has an amazing array of courses, from human communications courses to mass media, and courses they engage in critical thinking and it is also unique because it is in New York City, and it is also a magnet for a lot of students to come to New York. We have more than 400 students and we have a diverse faculty with diverse interest from girls studies to Hong Kong Cinema to propaganda. So we have an amazing spectrum of curses being offered by a diverse group of faculty members, and an amazing diverse group of students TPP: Which courses do students seem to be more interested in and which classes do students enjoy the most?

Dr. K: All the classes fill up right away when registration opens. A lot of students are interested in media and gender, political communications, there is a course on Stephen Colbert that I am teaching now, digital courses. But all of the courses, even the electives fill up.

Kudos to our students, they have a very diverse range of interest. They really experiment with the range of courses.

TPP: Is there anything that the department is going to do to accommodate the growing population of communications students?

Dr. K: We have hired to new professors, who are bringing their own expertise and courses into the department. Also the big courses of 100 and over have been broken down to two sections of 50, and hopefully we will get more professors in the future. Right now with we with six full time plus the adjuncts I think we are doing more than an adequate job.

TPP: What do you think is the best thing about this particular major?

Dr. K: Location, location, location. That is definitely one, an incredible body of students who are highly motivated, and an amazing cohort of faculty. For me specifically at the end of the day it is New York City. Every time I walk into the classroom is like a microcosm of New York City, it is like a mini United Nations. The students are from all over the world, with different backgrounds, race, class, and sexual orientation. For me it is the buzz you get coming into the city and into the classroom. Half of the degree is just interacting with the people of New York City. When I first came to the University in 2009, we had about 90 majors and now we have about 400-450. The department has grown tremendously and it is also with the help of the location.

NYC’s Hearst Tower houses many of the publications University graduates gain experience at architecture.about.com

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February 19, 2014

fastcompany.net

Comedy Central’s Chris Hardwick discusses new show

MAXIMILLIANO ONOFRE Arts Intern After a grueling two years, Comedy Central has decided to welcome a well-known host, Chris Hardwick. The new show, “@midnight,” attempts to make an American version of the typical British comedy panel show. Hardwick, who is notorious for his previous work in shows such as “Talking Dead” and “The Nerdist Podcast,” started hosting his show in October of 2013. However, when the show started, Hardwick admits that no one was sure if the show would be more than just a pilot.

Even with all this uncertainty at the beginning, the show quickly gained a fan base and was renewed for a 40 week second season that began in Jan. 2014.

The Pace Press recently had the opportunity to participate in a conference call interview with Hardwick to discuss his feelings on the show, what he believes the future of the show will bring and the arbitrary points system that the show has adapted.

When asked about the expectations for the show and how it differed from the average “internet video” type of show, Hardwick was quick to explain that “@midnight” is not an internet video show. Instead, he described it as a show that is “pulling from any social media,” using that as “the heart of the show.” Hardwick exemplified this by explaining how he uses Twitter, Facebook, Reddit, eBay and even at times, sites like OkCupid to keep the show interesting. He believes the show “works in a very communal way,” as, “it’s a web community show.”

Hardwick’s prospects are that the show will be able to bring in not just strictly comedians, but will also involve actors, singers, and “people from as many combinations as possible” who are known for

their comedic streak. Of course, with his background of nerd culture, he also hopes that the show touches a bit on nerdisms, and that he will be able to showcase his knowledge. As Hardwick said, though, the show is just “a baby show…so for now, [he’s] glad to have just nicked the tip of the glacier of stuff we can go to.” Because the show is almost a daily show, he’s hoping to keep up with the ever-changing culture, and “talk about what is happening that day, whether it be political, celebrity related, sports, or gamer culture.”

Of course, The Pace Press wondered how a show that airs four nights a week could keep up with the demanding task of staying current with social media. “Four researchers and seven writers,” was Hardwick’s flash response. He explains that the researchers and writers work together to see if what is big in the news at the moment is also something funny. He understands that “the show has to stay light and comedic to keep things rolling,” so they go mostly by feel to see what’s best for the day.

As for his arbitrary points system, Hardwick commented, “our show works more like Hogwarts house points and less like ‘Who’s Line [Is It Anyway?’].” For him, handing out points is based on the laughter. If it gets him and the audience laughing, points are awarded. If he doesn’t believe something is funny but the audience laughs, or vice versa, points will still be given as long as there is a positive reaction to the jokes.

Though Hardwick points out that the show is much different from his most recent hosting show “Talking Dead,” he is glad about where things are going. He feels like at this point, he’s in a career high and he’s enjoying the million and one tasks he has ahead of him and he hopes that with “@midnight,” he will be able to expose America to the British panel show culture.

Black History Month continues to spark controversy COURTNEY JOHNSON Features Intern continued from FRONT PAGE Prof. Santiago indicates that the University instead encourages students to take the reigns when planning cultural events regarding Black History.

“We let [Black History Month] fall within the domain of SDACA, The Black Student Union (BSU) and Sabor Latino, so if they want to do programming, what we’ll do is co-sponsor programming with them,” said Prof. Santiago, noting nevertheless that she would like to see more student organization involvement with OMA regarding cultural events, such as ones that pertain to Black History Month.

In the future Prof. Santiago would like to see students and student organizations have more interaction and programming involving OMA: “[Student Organizations] know that they can come here, but I guess they choose not to do so,” said Santiago.

Prof. Oseye believes, however, that the need for improvement stems from the curriculum regarding African American culture. “We need to upgrade our course offerings and provide departments dedicated to African Studies,” said Prof. Oseye.

“African literature alone should involve at least seven professors; not knowing history,

not knowing contributions to our immediate surroundings in Lower Manhattan will negatively impact our chances of achieving competency on a global level.”

Prof. Oseye advises students to celebrate Black History Month through education. “[We must] educate ourselves [and] get to know ourselves,” said Prof. Oseye, adding “Everyone must read Black Reconstruction by W.E.B. DuBois.”

In addition, off-campus opportunities for celebrating Black History Month are bountiful, according to Prof. Oseye, who said, “Stay in touch with: The Schomburg Library which continuously provides excellent exhibitions and programs [and] The New Federal Theatre, where Woodie King Jr., director, offers excellent, informative plays. ...[and] PBS has a number of excellent documentaries including the following: The Central Park Five, The Abolitionist, The Underground Railroad and The William Still Story.”

While progress is definitely needed in relation to celebrating and respectfully honoring Black History Month, it seems the University faculty is encouraging students to do so respectfully and inquisitively. Elizabeth Jennings, who is actually commemorated by way of a plaque in 41 Park Row, Carter G. Woodson, the founder of Black History Month and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., one of the pioneers of the black civil rights movement are just a few of the people who represent Black History Month. These figures are what should rightfully come to mind when approaching Black History Month, rather than the stereotypical images of Black Culture that we see everyday.

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February 19, 2014

University sophomore starts strategic technology partner company Student balances being a full-time student and CEO of AIT Consulting Solutions MICHAEL TJ WILLIAMS Social Media Manager

theaitsolution.com

Amit Shah

VISIT For more information on Amit Shah’s AIT Consulting Solutions, visit www.theaitsolution.com

Amit Shah, a sophomore at the University studying business administration During Shah’s sophomore year of high school, he founded AIT Consulting Solutions, an acronym for Amit Information Technology. AIT Consulting Solutions operates as a strategic technology partner, working with small start-up businesses and even large franchises, through mobile and web development, website development and search engine optimization, known as SEO. But every successful entrepreneur starts somewhere small.

Shah began his journey in a hotel at the age of eight. The hotel, owned by Shah’s father, was thrown into chaos when the servers went down during a storm. The hotel manager instinctively called their IT employee—who was unable to come in due to the storm.

Shah took matters into his own hands and soon enough, the servers were up and running again, and Shah’s talent with technology showed. He then became known as the “go-to man” for anything technology-related. Shah was compensated for some jobs, but it was not the money that compelled him, but rather his passion for technology.

Shah has ambitious goals for his company. He explained in an interview with The Pace Press that he wants AIT Consulting Solutions to grow into an empire, eventually becoming the largest in the technology industry.

The young entrepreneur faced challenges along the way.

Shah had “zero-knowledge” of software, which required additional resources early on in the company’s start-up. The eventual outcome is eight developers, one project manager, off shore teams in India and one CEO. Already showing promise as a potential global business.

Age presented another obstacle for Shah, because companies would be less willing to trust a young entrepreneur with a large investment. After similar circumstances, Shah and his company took a risk by offering a 100 percent refund if their strategic plan failed with their clients. It worked out in AIT Consulting Solution’s favor, building a stronger pitch and track record for the company as a whole.

The Update Me Now app was created, which tracks notifications and notifies all subscribers when there is a cancellation, new information, or anything pertinent to their respective audience. The app was handed off to another company, but AIT Consulting Solutions is profiting from royalties. Apps for small businesses, counties, and even customer loyalty were quickly introduced.

Recently, Shah has been in contact with large clients including UPS and Web.com. Earning early success with his company would compel many others to leave their education behind—but Shah said his parents stressed the importance of a college education. “I go to school because I have to,” said Shah.

As the CEO of AIT Consulting Solutions and a full-time student, Shah finds time to manage both responsibilities. He spends about 15 hours a week overseeing the company and focuses his other time on his studies.

AIT Consulting Solutions is based out of upstate New York, but is planning to open up as many retail locations within the first year of graduating as possible. Hoping that his company becomes similar to that of Starbucks, Shah explained that each location would include additional IT services, along with the additional solutions AIT Consulting Solutions offers today.

“The more you put into it, the more you’ll get out,” said Shah about finding success in the competitive world of technology.

Shah also relayed five key points of advice to up-and-coming entrepreneurs: 1) Make sure you have a strategy 2) Create a timeline 3) Conduct evaluations every couple of months 4) Differentiate between other companies 5) Take calculated risks Shah is determined to see his company prosper and plans to outcompete any company that provides similar services.

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Award Season

February 19, 2014

2014’s best and worst dressed

purelyapp.com and stuffshelikes.net STEPHANIE PITERA Staff Writer The 2014 awards season is one that will undoubtedly be remembered for a very long time because of the stunning—and not so stunning—fashions worn by Hollywood’s brightest stars.

Promising new actress and fashionista Lupita Nyong’o was a breakout star on the red carpet this award season. Topping best-dressed lists around the world, Nyong’o stunned in a scarlet Ralph Lauren caped gown at the Golden Globes. The 12 Years a Slave star followed up with a gorgeous bright blue Gucci gown at the annual Screen Actors Guild Awards.

Known for her quirky red carpet antics, American Hustle star Jennifer Lawrence unintentionally started a social media storm after wearing a black and white Dior Haute Couture dress. The gown, which featured two black bands tied around Lawrence’s waist and midsection, was the topic of a new trend dubbed “Lawrencing.” Twitter users, most notably “Teen Wolf” star Colton Haynes, wrapped themselves in bed sheets and black belts to replicate Lawrence’s style.

The gown landed the young star on both best and worst dressed lists, also causing debate between University students.

Freshman Aaron Ogle placed Lawrence on his personal worst dressed list. “[Her dress] was hideous.

[It looked like] a down comforter wrapped around her with two strips of duct tape,” Ogle said.

Freshman Laura Sills disagreed, praising Lawrence’s style. “Jennifer dresses so elegantly. I feel like she has the potential to become a fashion icon.”

Receiving attention for her recent red carpet style is “Scandal” star Kerry Washington. Washington’s most stunning accessory, her growing baby bump, has been on full display this award season. Washington started out the 2014 award season by topping bestdressed lists for her custom Balenciaga gown at the Golden Globes. A more daring choice, Washington showed up to the SAG Awards in a hot pink Prada crop top and black high-waited skirt.

Some of the stars that landed themselves on worst dressed lists for the Golden Globes included “Girls”

star Lena Dunham, “The Big Bang Theory”s Kaley Cuoco, and best supporting actress nominee for her role in “August: Osage County,” Julia Roberts.

Dunham stood out for all the wrong reasons in a plain yellow Zac Posen dress, while Cuoco’s Rani Zakhem dress featured a variety of odd color choices. Roberts surprised viewers everywhere by stepping out in a black mermaid Dolce and Gabbana dress, paired with a white blouse. Some critics praised Roberts’ fashion risk, while others thought she looked like she was better prepared for a day at the office.

Similarly, some stars stood out for right, and wrong, reasons at the Grammys. Singer Pharell Williams made headlines for his brown fedora that had everyone either talking or tweeting. Comparisons to Smokey the Bear and the Arby’s logo were made, causing the hat to become a trending topic on social media. “Royals” singer and teenage Grammy-winner Lorde also made a bold fashion statement, sporting a black long sleeved dress, dark lipstick and a manicure that extended beyond her nail beds.

At the top of the Grammy’s best-dressed lists were Taylor Swift and Katy Perry. Swift, who is usually a standout at the annual awards, stunned in a gold lamè Gucci Première gown. No stranger to taking fashion risks, “Dark Horse” singer Katy Perry showed off a white Valentino gown, which flared out into a series of music notes. Her daring choice put her at the top of the best-dressed lists issued by Vogue.com, Eonline, and many other notable celebrity news sites.

Not to be forgotten, the men of the 2014 award season have proved that there are more options available than a simple black tux. Matthew McConaughey was a standout at both the Golden Globes and SAG Awards. Topping Eonline’s best-dressed men list, McConaughey made the surprising, but rewarding, choice of wearing a green velvet Dolce & Gabbana tuxedo. Singer Usher also stood out on the carpet in a merlot Calvin Klein tuxedo.

Although no one knows what the stars will wear to the 2014 Oscars, one thing is certain: the night will be full of iconic fashion moments as well as memorable fashion tragedies.

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Exploring the

ARTS

February 19, 2014

sweeter side

of New York City

It’s likely that if you live in New York City, you enjoy exploring the sweeter side of the city. Sugartooth tours specializes in dessert tasting tours, with tours ranging from ice cream to cupcakes to special holiday treats. Their tours offer an original unique experience, wandering astray from the big commercialized bakery brands to experience the irreplaceable local spots.

The Pace Press recently had the pleasure of participating in Sugartooth’s “Valentine’s Sweetheart’s Tour,” which featured high-quality desserts made specially for the romantic holiday.

The very friendly and knowledgeable tour guides, Sarah Rolleston and Becki Cooper, who met while performing on tour in the musical Beauty and the Beast, started the company completely by themselves. They both loved doing food tours on the road and decided to start one of their own—they explained how they both equally love dessert, even expressing that if came down to risking one’s life over chocolate cake, they would choose the cake.

Sugartooth offers a variety of different themed dessert tours to suit every sugarlover’s interests, but the Village Valentine’s Sweetheart’s tour is the perfect date idea for couples, or even just a pair of friends who want to go beyond just a box of chocolates to celebrate love on this occasion.

The tour began at City Cakes, located on 251 W. 18th St., famous for their half pound cookies. The “Half Pounder Cookie Club” offers huge satisfying cookies including Reese’s pieces peanut butter, triple chocolate spice, sugardoodle, and more. Their newest cookie featured was the ginger spice, based on the Spice Girls.

Couples on the tour split one cookie to share, but it is more than enough of a serving size.

It is a nice added bonus that guests get to walk off the calories they just consumed while venturing through the slush and snow to the next dessert tasting spot.

Certified NYC tour guides, the girls presented a combination of both dessert and city history throughout the walk, as well as at the sit-down eating spots where guests learned interesting fun facts while tasting their freshly baked sweets inside the warmth. The small group sized tours provides for a conversational atmosphere.

The second stop was at the best indoor food mall in the world, Chelsea Market.

Inside, the group met at The Ronybrook Dairy Farm Milk Bar, which is run by a family who raises their own cows completely organically and humanely, treating them as members of their own family.

While waiting for the next sweet treat to be prepared, Sarah and Becki explained the history of Valentines Day as a holiday, which originated from St. Valentine being sentenced to death for marrying soldiers and writing a letter to his

IRENE SCHULTZ Arts Editor

love while in jail, signing it “from your Valentine.”

Guests received freshly brewed hot chocolate to drink while walking hand in hand with their sweetheart down the Highline. On the snow-flurried walk above the city, guests can see the water and sip hot chocolate as they listen to the history of the highline, which was originally built as an elevated train tracks to avoid deaths.

The guides really made use of every minute of the trip, wasting no time by filling it with fun useful knowledge about NYC culture and desserts.

The next stop was the famous and trendy Sugar Factory. Originally based in LA, the NYC store is located in the Meatpacking District at 46 Gansevoort St. Known for their couture lollipops, this hot spot is a favorite of celebrities including Britney Spears, Kim Kardashian and many others. Upon entrance there is a large candy wall, much like the one at the M&M factory in Times Square, which holds a variety of several different types of candy. Guests are allowed to choose any mixture of candies that they want, filling up one half pound bag to take with them.

Having covered cookies and chocolate, the next stop was a visit to Bee’s Knees, owned by the friendly baker Billy on 113 W. 10th St. Bee’s Knees specializes in cake-cups, which is quite literally how it sounds. A variety of seasonal cakes, as well as specialty Valentine flavors, served in a single serve sliced cup, was a perfect dessert to share with your sweetheart. Billy even offered guests coffee.

At the final decadent dessert tasting, guests have the option to add a wine or beer pairing to compliment their cupcake—a highly recommended tasteful combo.

Sweet Revenge, located at 62 Carmine St., was created by a woman who didn’t get the promotion she intended and quit her job to pursue what she always dreamed of, going to culinary school and opening her own store. The tour guides certainly saved the best for last. “The Valentine Amour” cupcake was topped with a chocolate covered strawberry and was the perfect ending to a sweet tasting experience for the taste buds.

When choosing what places to visit on their tours, Sarah and Becki take their customers to places they really love themselves. “Our goal is to get off the beaten path on every tour we have,” said Sarah, making each Sugartooth Tour a unique and interesting experience.

Other seasonal and year-round tours include Find Heaven in Hell’s Kitchen, Broadway & Dessert Theatre District, Village-to-Village Cupcake Crawl, Ice Cream Summer Sundays, and the Union Square Holiday Market Dessert Tours.

Check out Sugartooh’s website (www.sugartoothtours.com) and Facebook for more info about events, as the lovely and friendly guides are looking into launching new exciting dessert tours.

Graphic by Gregg Cunis