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the Valley Forge The Student Newspaper of Rock Valley College
09.17.2013 / vol. 54, no. 1
Jefferey James sings for the RVC community By Damien Pitts Staff Writer
Jefferey James singer/musician
Photo courtesy of Thebarryagency.com
On Thursday, August 29th , in the Rock Valley College Student Center atrium at 1:00 p.m. the student body and community gathered to hear the soulful sounds of a season three contestant on the NBC hit show “The Voice,” Jeffrey James. James, a single, 26 year old Brownsburg Indiana native who works out of country music mecca Nashville Tennessee, is somewhat of a breath of fresh air musically. He refers to his music as “Rock Soul,” a combination of classic rock and R&B. He began the day with an introduction of himself and rolled right into a sound check, singing a cover song that sounded strangely familiar to the audience, who tried to put their fingers on the tune, but couldn’t. That was until James
reached the chorus. It was a rendition of CeeLo Greens’ hit single “Crazy.” “I like to take sad sounding or melancholy songs and give them a more up-tempo sound (or vice versa),” said James, unlike artists who do cover songs almost identically to the original artists’ version. James gave the crowd of 40 or so a good show with nothing more than an acoustic guitar, a tenor voice and a love for performing. James started the performance with a song that was made before almost everyone in attendance was even born, a BeeGees’ disco classic made famous in the 70s flick Saturday Night Fever called “Staying Alive,” showing that his musical pallet stretched far beyond his 26 years. Along with covers by the aforementioned CeeLo Green and The BeeGees he did songs by Adele
and Outkast, only using a few of his own original songs (as he was also selling some of his music). Mid performance James told the audience that whoever could crack the funniest joke about him on twitter would receive a prize. Instantly phones were out with people tweetin’ away. “At times the travel is hard and staying in hotels all the time can be lonely, but the enjoyment of performing makes you forget about those things,” said James in an interview after his performance. “The hard work is worth it. This will be 10 times harder than you think it will be and it will take 10 times longer than you think it will take, but it is definitely worth it.” If you would like to learn or hear more of Jeffery James you can by logging onto www.JEFFREYJAMESMUSIC.net
Board of Trustees’ meeting leaves much to be discussed By Brandon Lee Staff Writer
The Rock Valley College Board of Trustees met Tuesday the 27th in the Woodward Technology Center to discuss business ranging from an under staffed marketing department to the process to choose RVC’s next president. Some topics discussed: Plans to transfer control of the Freedom Fields Renewable Energy center from county run to being run by RVC. This was tabled until the next meeting, which will give board members time to tour the facility. Enrollment numbers for the fall semester indicate that while the number of students remained about the same the average number of credit hours per student had fallen.
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No clear sign is known as to a cause for the drop in credit hours, but a survey in the near future was discussed. The primary focus of the night was about the forming of a search committee to find RVC’s next president. Michelle Cruz-Williams, Vice President and Director of Isaacson Miller the firm hired to help find candidates, explained the process in which her firm takes in searching for candidates. The search would be kept confidential until just before the candidates visit the campus, which is scheduled around next April or March. There was some disagreement about the amount of people that would sit on the committee, Lynn Kearney felt that 15 would be enough, which Cruz-Williams
echoed, but Frank Haney believes that over 20 will be needed. While all six trustees in attendance (Patrick Murphy was absent) expressed interest in being a part of the committee only Michael Dunn, Randy Schaffer, Haney and Kearney felt they would be able to devote the time needed. Besides the five board members that would be part of the search, the board Chairperson, Dunn, expressed a desire to have two faculty members and a member from the RVC Foundation, Employee Support Personnel and the Professional Staff Association. Allowing for five or six members from the community, the board would recommend they be from the Rockford area. Kearney suggested a member of a non-profit organization and staff from a local high
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school be among them. The biggest point stressed was that anyone on the committee had to be available for every meeting. Three guest speakers, Einar Foresman, president of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce, Reverend Kenneth Board of the Rockford Ministers’ Fellowship, and Conor Brown of the Rockford Association of Realtors asked the board to consider all types of groups when it came to choosing the next president. Rev. Board stressed the use of a “360 degree” outlook and asked the search committee be all inclusive. “We’re not trying to replace Jack. The question is, What is the next level of leadership you need,” said Cruz-Williams
Ben Affleck Bruce Wayne ...Batman? page 3
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The Valley Forge
09.17.2013 / vol. 54, no. 1
August Board of Trustees meeting at RVC By Brandon Lee Staff Writer The Rock Valley College Board of Trustees met Tuesday the 27th in the Woodward Technology Center to discuss business ranging from an under staffed marketing department to the process to choose RVC’s next president. Among the topics discussed were plans to transfer control of the Freedom Fields Renewable Energy center from county run to being run by RVC but it was tabled until the next meeting. This will give board members time to tour the facility. Enrollment numbers for the fall semester were
discussed and it was shown that while the number of students remained about the same the average number of credits per student had fallen. No clear sign is known as to a cause for the drop in credit hours but a survey in the near future was discussed. The primary discussion of the night, however, was about the forming of a search committee to find RVC’s next president. In attendance was Michelle Cruz-Williams, Vice President and Director of Isaacson Miller the firm hired to help find candidates. Cruz-Williams explained to the meeting the process in which her firm takes in searching for candidates.
The search would be kept confidential until just before the candidates visit the campus which is scheduled around next April or March. There was some disagreement about the amount of people that would sit on the committee, Lynn Kearney felt that 15 would be enough, which Cruz-Williams echoed, but Frank Haney believes that over 20 will be needed. While all 6 trustees in attendance (Patrick Murphy was absent) expressed interest in being a part of the committee only Michael Dunn, Randy Schaffer, Haney and Kearney felt they would be able to devote the time needed. Besides the 5 board members that would be part of
the search the board Dunn expressed a desire to have 2 faculty members and a member from the RVC Foundation, Employee Support Personnel and the Professional Staff Association. This would allow for 5 or 6 members from the community, which the board would recommend from the Rockford area. Kearney suggested a member of a non-profit organization and staff from a local high school be among them. The biggest point stressed was that anyone on the committee had to be available for every meeting. In attendance were Einar Foresman, president of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce, Reverend Kenneth
Board of the Rockford Ministers’ Fellowship, and Conor Brown of the Rockford Association of Realtors. While all 3 came from different Rockford organizations they all asked the board to consider all types of groups when it came to choosing the next president. Rev. Board stressed the use of a “360 degree” outlook and asked the search committee be all inclusive. Cruz-Williams explained the tone of the search when she said, “We’re not trying to replace Jack. The question is, What is the next level of leadership you need?”
Man arrested after his attempt to smuggle Marijuana underwater
Scuba smuggler name has yet to be released
By Devin Severson Staff Writer
On August 19th, 2013, a man was apprehended crossing the border from Windsor, Ontario, Canada into Marine City, Michigan smuggling over eight pounds of marijuana. U.S. Authorities arrested a man in scuba diving gear after a witness reported seeing him swimming toward the U.S. near 1:00 a.m. and images via high border surveillance cameras displayed him lugging a heavy object behind him. When apprehended, the cylinder the man was carrying was filled
Photo courtesy of NYPOST.com
with over eight pounds of premium marijuana worth close to forty thousand dollars. “I think it’s hilarious that these guys are coming up with new ways to screw themselves over. You would think they would have thought of something like this long before they started transporting their product in their bodies,” said medical marijuana patient Ron Witherby. The man’s name has yet to be released by authorities and he is still in custody. He is being interrogated on the possibility of further “Seaweed” mules. This
investigation is two fold. They wish to stop the traffic flow of the drugs, and they want to keep people safe. Scuba diving in the dead of night is dangerous. Freighters and boats crossing the river can easily kill someone and tear them apart, scattering their bits into the current. “I can’t believe this guy wanted to illegally traffic drugs that badly that he would put his life in danger. It’s totally ignorant and stupid. What’s worse is medical marijuana is legal in Canada!” said Jeremy Felborn, RVC student. In both Windsor and Marine City, medical marijuana is legal. Anyone who is qualified for medical marijuana can grow their own, obtain it from a vendor, or obtain it from a caregiver. If he had been in possession of medical marijuana, the most he would have gotten was a moderate fine and a few days in jail for crossing the Canadian border illegally, but he was in fact, in possession of marijuana not classified as medical and because of that, he faces a $150,000 fine ad up to five
years in jail. “What will these people come up with next? It’s just another reason why pot should be legalized. Pretty soon people are going to end up tying packs of pot to doves and disguising them as carrier pigeons
if they get that desperate,” said Brittany Mercosa, RVC student. By land, by air, and now by sea, drug smuggling continues.
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Living in the Dark Knight’s Shadow By Alec Heaton Staff Writer
Ever since the reveal of a “Batman vs. Superman” movie at Comic Con, fans had been wondering who would play the role of Bruce Wayne. Numerous candidates fans had talked about included Jon Hamm, Michael Fassbender, and Richard Armitage, but when it was announced that Ben Affleck was to be the new caped crusader, the decision was met with outrage. People are furious that Affleck was chosen for the role, and quite frankly, I can’t see why. The immediate reason most fans bring up is Daredevil, Affleck’s first superhero role, which had an unfortunate flop at the box office in 2003.
Here’s the thing people tend to ignore: Daredevil came out ten years ago— Affleck’s performance in films has improved since then, and he wasn’t even the cause for the film’s failure. The poor directing and writing in Daredevil are what caused it to go down. Another thing people tend to forget is that Heath Ledger and Robert Downy Jr. received just as much criticism when they were cast for their roles as The Joker and Tony Stark—look how that turned out. People didn’t want a “pretty boy” or a “gay cowboy” playing the clown prince of chaos, and yet Ledger’s performance was considered legendary. Even though people now revere Ledger as an outstanding actor after his role in The Dark Knight, He
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EDITORIAL BOARD
Shannon Doyle, Editor in Chief Catt Garcia, Encore/Features Editor Rebecca Denham, News Editor Damien Pitts, Sports Editor
COLUMNISTS & REVIEWERS Christopher Dobson Alec Heaton Brandon Lee Shaquil Manigault Devin Severson Victoria Sockwell Zach Thanasilangkul
FACULTY ADVISER Prof. Frank Coffman
was, for the most part, a hit and miss actor. The same was thought of RDJ; the main question regarding his casting was “Why are they letting a drug addict play Iron Man?” Now Iron Man is one of the most successful superhero film franchises, and I honestly couldn’t see anyone other than RDJ in the spotlight. Let’s look at previous actors who have played Batman—Michael Keaton and Christian Bale, for example. Keaton did very well as Batman, even though he was met with harsh criticism upon being cast. And Bale, considered by many to be the best Batman, wasn’t held in high regard until his role in Batman Begins. Fans pleaded that Bale should be able to reprise his role as Bruce Wayne, or even have
Joseph Gordon-Levit return as John Blake: the supposed successor of Bruce Wayne in The Dark Knight Rises, but since it has already been announced that Christopher Nolan’s Batman trilogy is set in a universe completely separate from this new line of DC films, starting with Man of Steel, having Bale or Gordon-Levit return as Batman would cause all sorts of issues. I’m willing to give Ben Affleck a chance. He has an impressive acting career, with great films such as Armageddon, Good Will Hunting, The Town, and Argo, which won three Academy Awards. Not to mention that Affleck has proved himself to be a great director and producer—he won two Academy Awards for his work in Argo and Good Will Hunting.
With that being said, Affleck could help the Batman vs. Superman movie both on camera and behind the scenes. Also, for this new adaptation of Batman, the makers are looking for an older, more mature and gritty Batman, and I think that Affleck could play that role very well. Affleck has a history of playing characters caught in situations out of their depth, which is exactly what Bruce Wayne will be in the upcoming film, with the sudden appearance of Superman. And honestly, as much as I hope Affleck hides his Boston accent in this movie, I would prefer hearing that than the sound of Christian Bale gargling marbles.
Who will have a say in RVC’S President search By Brandon Lee Staff writer At the end of August the Rock Valley College Board of Trustees met for the scheduled meeting. One of the main points of discussion was the forming of the committee to appoint RVC’s next president after Dr. Becherer leaves. In attendance was Michelle Cruz-WIlliams of the firm Isaacson, Miller which has been hired by the college to perform the search. Cruz-Williams stressed the size of the committee be limited, she suggested no more than 15. Trustee Pat Murphy expressed that the number should be in the twenties. Regardless not many people will be involved in the choice. On the board alone five of the seven trustees expressed a desire to be on the committee, with Trustees Mary Tuite and Katherine Kelley explaining they wouldn’t be able to devote the time needed to being apart of it. Let’s assume that leaves 10 available spots on the committee. Chairman Michael Dunn suggested two faculty members, a member from the RVC Foundation, a member of the Employee Support Personnel and a member from the Professional Staff Association. Five members of the search committee to represent RVC employees which leaves room for five more search committee members. Finally the board discussed Rockford community members that would be chosen. Kearney suggested a member of a nonprofit organization and staff from the Rockford and other local Public School systems. Among those attending that Board of Trustees meeting were leaders of various Rockford organizations like the Chamber of Commerce and the Rockford Ministers’ Fellowship. It’s safe to say these groups would like a say in picking the new
president as RVC students are affected by and affect these groups. That covers everyone doesn’t it? No, not quite. The students (you know, the reason the college exists) were noticeably absent from the discussion. As the discussion went on one of the board members remembered Student Trustee Marshawn Massenat, involving him on the committee was almost an afterthought and quickly turned back to other groups that should be involved. One person to represent the entire student body? And not even that, Marshawn’s job on the board is to represent the students, but on this committee his loyalty may be split between the students and the board itself. Any other student will have to take one of the spots set aside for community members. If it comes down to choosing between the President of the Chamber of Commerce and Joe Schmoe RVC student I can’t see the board choosing Joe. There’s no doubt that everyone chosen to be apart of the search committee will have the colleges best interest at heart, but the students have the most at stake. And when you consider how diverse RVC students are it seems like a monumental task for Massenat to ensure every voice is represented. Going forward, what can be done to include the student voice? Staff members of Isaacson, Miller will be visiting RVC on occasion to meet the community and answer questions. This would be a perfect opportunity to express an interest in joining the search committee. Another good opportunity is during the Board of Trustees monthly meetings on the last Tuesday of the month. The opportunities are there, students just need to show those in charge that there are students up to the task of choosing RVC’s next president.
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The Valley Forge
Horoscope
Aries (March 21 – April 20): Aries, take a bow. You’re the first sign in the zodiac so it does not come as a surprise that you are a natural born leader. Achieving goals is important to you. You know exactly what you want, when you want it. You are more likely to step up and be the leader in a group project for your speech class. You have to learn how to share the power before you run yourself mad while overdosing on way too much coffee at Meg’s Daily Grind. Take a breather Aries; take time to enjoy the ride instead of controlling it. Lucky Days- Any day but Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
Taurus (April 21 – May 21): You are a cautious person, almost too cautious. Taking one step at a time and calculating every move. When you make decisions, you need them to be rock solid. So if you told the blonde that you met at the basketball games that you would meet her at Applebee’s afterwards, you need things timed and scheduled (Are we meeting there or after the game? Do you want to do the 2 for $20 when we get there, or what’s up?). You have to learn to just chill out. I’m not saying that you cannot be practical, but there is a time for everything. Lucky Days - Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays
Gemini (May 22 – June 21): You are all about intelligence and communication. You’re born under this sign and have a talent for using your mind and expressing yourself fully. So it was not a huge surprise that you tried out for Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Just for the hell of it
you probably decided to go to the First Tuesday Lecture on September 10th to listen to Professor Wagner talk about morality. But lets not forget how sporty you are! So what you did not make the volleyball team? They have games pretty much every Tuesday and Thursday at 6pm, not to mention most of them are at home. Lucky Days - Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays
Cancer (June 22 – July 23): The fourth sign of the zodiac is a water sign, which signifies your highly emotional nature. Being under the sway of the element of water also makes you highly caring, generous and intuitive. You are likely to be highly involved in a club and more. Cancers are good at adapting when they have to, but prefer to make changes when they are ready. You are a bit of a sap sometimes and that’s okay (just please do not cry in the Student Lounge). Lucky Days- Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays
Leo (July 24 – August 23): The Sun is your ruling planet. Of course the Sun is not really a planet; it is the center of our solar system (thank you for the lesson Professor Fisk). You are a big ball of energy trying to make your mark on the world. You would make a good actor or maybe even a singer in the choir. You are extremely generous and want everyone else to be too. When you see a friend struggling in their classes you are quick to give them a word of wisdom to help them move along. But Leo’s have to be careful; you tend to be a little bit cocky. You are always trying to “up-one” on someone’s situation or story. Being a little humble would not hurt would it? Try not to let the popularity get to your head. Besides it is only college. Lucky Days – Sundays, Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays
Virgo (August 24 – September 23): Virgo’s are earthy and represent the sixth sign of the zodiac. You belong to a group of people known for their perfectionism and highly analytical minds. In a way, you are misunderstood and your attention to detail, your desire for excellence. You would be a good fit for a roommate, making sure the rent is paid and laundry is done. Your eye for detail could come in handy in a new hobby (think about taking a photography class next semester). Lucky Days – Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays
Libra (September 24 – October 23): You are definitely a thinker. Your love for solving problems always comes in handy during a test. You’re rarely at a loss for words … even on your worst day you have the gift of the gab! You also have the charm to sway things your way. Libras would be best at debates (talk to the Student Life Office if you want to start a team). Your decision-making skills are on point, but try not to jump into anything to please others. You have the ability to look at both sides of a visitation, so use it. Lucky Days – Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays
Scorpio (October 24 – November 22): Magnetic, elusive, sexy and determined. That’s you Scorpio! Your star sign is probably one of the most misunderstood signs of the zodiac. It has had a pretty bad rap over the years, but that is just because what people don’t understand, they tend to fear. That cool coldness is just the surface of your complex nature, and is by no means bad. Below the
09.17.2013 / vol. 54, no. 1
By Victoria Sockwell Staff Writer
surface of your cool exterior is a scorching and passionate fire. You never want to go half way with your schoolwork. You believe everything should be overkill. Take a moment to maybe walk around the campus. Spark up a conversation with someone. Even when they seem to be put off try and show how passionate you are about what you love. They will love that about you. Lucky Days – Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays
Sagittarius (November 23 – December 22): This is undoubtedly one of the most positive of the star signs. You were born under the ninth sign, which is ruled by Jupiter. You’re extremely confident in whatever you do. Being one of the luckiest signs, fortune seems to favor you, whether you plan things or not. That’s also the reason you don’t mind taking the odd risk or two. You feel as if you can’t possibly lose. This almost cocky attitude is something that attracts people to you. You take pride in making the winning basket and want everyone to know. You might want to share a piece of the humble pie with the Leo. Lucky Days – Let’s be real, Mondays are not for you.
Capricorn (December 23 – January 20): Few people are as practical and ambitious as Capricorn. You are the tenth sign, an earthy element, which makes you down to earth and matter-of-fact. Caution is your second name and this is due to Saturn, your ruling planet. You are sometimes shy and lack selfconfidence and self-esteem. I’ve never met a Capricorn who was afraid of hard work in order to achieve what they want in life. You are ambitious and go for your dreams and usually end up successful. You like money, but not if it involves risk. You prefer
to know exactly where your dollars and cents are going. You prefer traditional types of savings. You know college is a good investment, but transferring to a four year where tuition is higher is a little bit harder to swallow. Talk to an advisor about it and see if there are any scholarships to help. Lucky Days – Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays
Aquarius (January 21 – February 19): You are a zesty individual, having tremendous amounts of energy. You are determined and forceful in how you deal with people. You want to express your groundbreaking spirit in everything you do, but unfortunately you won’t always be able to break free of the limits that are imposed upon you. Communication is your specialty and you relate well to the world. You should team up with a Libra and start up a new club! Lucky Days – Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays
Pisces (February 20 – March 20): You have a universal approach to the way you live and this is seen in most of your actions. Whenever you see someone suffering, or in some type of trouble, it touches your heart and you can’t help but offer your assistance. Your heart goes out to them. Even if you’re in a hurry, busy doing something else, you’ll take time out of your busy day to lend a helping hand where you can. It is second nature for you to care, but try not to let people take advantage of you. Just because that hottie gave you a sappy story and asked you to do their paper for psychology, that does not mean you have to do it. Lucky Days – Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays
Symbols courtesy of google
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Only God Forgives
By Michael Swalve Staff Writer
First of all: SPOILER ALERT! There is potentially reveling material in this film review, advance with caution. If you are wondering to yourself, “What is this movie? I’ve never even heard of it!” Chances are that it is because it didn’t hit many theaters, and, having seen its contents, this does not surprise me to the slightest extent. That, by no means necessary, deems this as a less-than-fantastic film. It simply means that it is not for everyone. After the film Drive (2011), and its huge success in the mainstream, director Nicholas Winding Refn ventured back to his dim and more mysterious roots; traveling to Bangkok to create the film Only God Forgives. Only God Forgives has the natural elements that Drive had: Ryan Gosling, violence, the same emotional music and cinematographic feel, and unique dialogue (or lack thereof). But it has a peculiar, slower and deeper, not outstanding, plot to its nature. Where Drive was fast-paced,
rabbit-like speed, Only God Forgives has a slow, turtle-like, sluggishness to it by thriving on lengthy, nearly drawn out, scenes. Only God Forgives begins in a mysterious manor with hardly any dialogue whatsoever. The main character Julian (Ryan Gosling) runs a boxing club, which is really just a front for his actual line of business: dealing and smuggling drugs. Gosling delivers an outstanding performance, just as he did in Drive, and brings to life a revealing of inner darkness, chaos, and turmoil surrounding Julian’s life. Everything seems regular, well as much as it can be for Julian, up until his brother is brutally murdered. Enter the mother (Kristen Scott Thomas), the stern, sophisticated, yet also drug-dealing, mother; who still remains in the United States. The mother travels to Bangkok in search of vengeance of her youngest, first son. From the moment that Julian and his mother are reunited we sense the intense, abnormal relationship that the two share. Especially at a freakishly intense diner scene with mother, son, and hooker posed as girlfriend.
Victorianism
Amour By Catt Garcia Features Editor
The gracefulness of living a long, fulfilled life and making peace with all of the decisions you have made are all common misconceptions involving old age. For loved ones involved, it is truly the beginning of an end. Amour is the harsh, raw, reality of watching a loved one succumb to the perils of growing old. Originally released in Germany, the 2012 French foreign language film encompasses the final journey of life between Georges (played by Jean-Luis Trintignant) and wife, Anne (Emmanuelle Riva). It is the simple moments together: the couple returning from a piano recital, eating breakfast in their quaint French kitchen---that immediately attaches a heartstring to the small tasks which mean so much more when done with a spouse for oh so many years. One of those mornings finds Georges eating breakfast with a wife he has never seen before. Anne’s face suddenly blanks, a wall of glazed eyes and unresponsive actions. Her odd behavior alarms him, and with much coaxing, she is diagnosed with a brain malfunction; suffering a series of physical setbacks and ultimately, a stroke. Dark blues and gray are strongly pronounced within the film, enhancing the severity of the situation from sweaters to household décor. The once highly-spirited, classical piano teacher has become
Mother makes a demanding request that Julian seek out his brothers killed and do whatever is necessary to retaliate. We really sense who the businesswoman behind the drug empire is (as if it may even be a matriarchal family). The remainder of the film we follow Julian through his struggles with life and in the search of his brothers murderer. This film is extremely artistic and dark, literally from the lighting and the red, dreamlike tones. It has an actual dreamlike, sensual feeling to it; some of which may not even be real, but truly a dream sequence. And not to mention its dark mother-son relationship, with blatant undertones of Oedipus. If you can tolerant violence, gore, sexual tension, and a film that seems like it is over 3 hours in length (although it is only a whopping 90 minutes) then try this film on for size. And, as I’ve stated before, this film is not necessarily for everyone. But, for film fanatics this is a must see, if only once. Not to mention the fact the Ryan Gosling is in one of the most epic fight scenes of the year (and he may not even win said fight!).
as fragile as a bird; perhaps metaphoric to the pigeon which flies into their apartment one afternoon: in a place where she does not know how she ended up, yet still so desperate to be free. It is the gentle care and steadfast hold to keep Anne’s wishes (never to be put in a hospice) that clutch you in the same terrifying grip as Georges. The simple tasks have now become the hardest: spoon-feeding, bathing, changing a diaper. Sweetly, humbly, Georges takes on every blow that the battle of age has delivered. Ending on the most explosive turn of events, Amour does more than justice to the final days of living. Nominated for four Oscars and winning Best Foreign Language Film of the Year (not including the awards won outside of the U.S.), Amour certainly does not leave you empty-handed. According to IMDB, Riva is the oldest woman to be nominated for an Oscar, at 85 years old. While a bit lengthy, the film truly engrosses you, providing a harsh wake up call to those who are full of youth. At one time, the man in the wheelchair or woman on a respirator was also young; frolicking in the glory of late nights, fast cars, and false immortality. Amour stands for compassion, honesty, awareness, and quite simply, love.
By Victoria Sockwell Staff Writer
For me early mornings are all about getting my life together. I wake up enjoy some coffee (or Redbull if there is no time for coffee), make sure to look half presentable, and I’m out the door. Sometimes I get a little zealous and decide to actually try to be fashionable; looking through my Pinterest for inspiration. There has to be a lot of people that can relate to that. In college, you’re just trying to make it through the day. You are not too concerned about what is in and what is not. With a math test today and an English quiz tomorrow, fashion is not going to be in the forefront of your mind. But for this Rock Valley College sophomore, looking good does not take a lot of effort. I met Kevin Metras in front of Subway on a Wednesday afternoon. I was automatically drawn to his camouflage chinos. Haven’t seen a lot of camouflage on people, not many can pull it off, let alone chino ones. Nervous about freaking him out, I walked up to him to ask him about his outfit and his inspirations. He pleasantly smiled. “I see something I like and I’ll try to sport it. If it doesn’t look good on me I’ll put it back; try something else if I see something that’s cool,” said Metras. Well how simple is that? Can finding something to wear be that easy? Metras of course already had that figured out.
“A lot of simple things... I’m not trying to go crazy. I like H&M styles. I do a lot of looks on Instagram too. I see a lot of cool stuff on Instagram to try and put myself together. I’m not trying to be like someone else. I just see things I like and I try and wear them. I think it makes me feel good about myself,” added Metras. Let’s be honest, sometimes finding the right outfit is not that easy. Thankfully there are a couple of things that can make the process just a little bit easier. If you do not already have an Instagram I suggest starting there. Not only can you get a daily dose of real fashion, but fashion that is affordable. Good users to follow on Instagram: @americaneagle, @hm, @ rovrs_id, and @cmortez. Now if you are like me, you like things sort of organized. Pinterest is a perfect fit for you because you can make boards for different items. If you want a board dedicated to jeans, go for it! Good users to follow for Pinterest can be a little bit harder so I suggest starting with your favorite stores. Most stores have their own Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook, and Twitter. Staying up to date with the latest fashion is literally at your fingertips. So put that smart phone to good use! Even if you do not have a smart phone, fashion is all around us. You just have to know what you like and rock it. Wear what makes you happy to be you.
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Knicks need a fix in the offseason By Shaquil Manigault Sports Writer
The New York Knicks head into the 2014 NBA season coming off a division title and a number two seed in the eastern conference. The Knicks also managed to win a playoff series for the first time since 2000. All of this was to no avail, though, as they lost in the second round to the Indiana pacers. The Knicks have glaring problems that need to be addressed this offseason and have very limited resources to do so. The organization needs younger talent, but without the ability
to clear cap space due to the contracts of players already on the roster, it can’t happen. But this should take precedence if the Knicks are to move forward. Let us not forget that the future of Carmelo Anthony is not forever etched in stone. The Knicks made a respectable move trading for Andrea Bargnani in a deal where they cleared a little cap space and got a little more talent, trading away Steve Novak, Marcus Camby and Jason Richardson (all of whom were minimal contributors last season). Bringing in Bargnani adds much needed offense production from the power
forward spot. Although Carmelo Anthony did play a significant amount of minutes at power forward averaging 28.7 ppg, that is not his natural position. Baragani not only moves Melo back to the small forward, which gives him more real estate, it also allows for coach Woodson to play Amare Stoudemire more sparingly. Stoudemire may never be the player he once was, but if he could give you 20 quality minutes providing scoring off the bench, his 100 million dollar deal may not be a complete waste. As far as the Knicks’ shaky backcourt goes, they did manage to add some
youth and a little more talent off the bench with Tim Hardaway Jr. and former LA Laker Meta World Peace. They selected Hardaway Jr. with the 24th pick in the draft. In an interview from the Knicks Official website with VP Glen Grundwald he explained why they selected Hardaway Jr., saying that “he fills a need we have in the backcourt”. With only two guards under contract, Hardaway Jr. (whose family includes NBA superstars Tim and Anfernee) can come in right away and be effective with good shooting and athleticism on the wing.
World Peace is another addition whose assets are already clear: defensive intensity and toughness. Some skeptics worry that the Big Apple may be too much of a distraction for World Peace, but let us not forget, he did come from Los Angeles, which is about as close to NY as it gets, as far as “Bright Lights, Big City” goes. So far so good with regards to the Knicks offseason, especially with their limited ability. These moves may not have made them drastically better, but they at least allow them to maintain in a conference where the good are getting great.
RVC fall preview By Damien Pitts Sports Editor This fall sports season holds true promise and there are definitely high expectations across the board. From the men’s baseball team (1828 overall), to the two time defending NJCAA champion girls’ basketball team (32-2 overall) the Golden Eagles are hungry to display their excellence in the field of play. The basketball program had success on both sides with each coachs’ team placing top 10 in the nation. Coach Misty Opat led the women to their second national championship in as many years, compiling 32 wins against only 2 losses. Craig Dotys’ men’s basketball team earned a 7th
place finish nationally with a record of 19-17. This was done with just one returning player. Now that he has had a chance to recruit and also implement his “system” further the future looks bright for RVC mens’ basketball. Both the mens’ and womens’ programs have been practicing hard this off-season in preparation of what’s to come. Abigail Jenkins led the women’s Golden Eagles volleyball team to a national championship last season with a record of 40-8. The womens’ tennis team finished 5th in the nation in 2012 after finishing 1st in 2011. Things once again seem to be working well for coach Don Metz as the Golden Eagles ladies tennis squad has come out full
throttle, decimating any competition set before them so far, earning them a perfect 6-0 record thus far. Led by NJCAA National Player of the Year April Weisheit (who hasn’t lost a set dating back to last season), along with a bevy of other players who have yet to fall in singles competition (Hannah Carlson, Kaylee Belknap, Jessi Mena, Vanessa Salazar) the girls look primed to make another run at greatness. The mens tennis team is a respectable 3-3. Coach Metz takes on double duty here, taking responsibility for both squads. He practices the men and women together. “The men help the women in areas of the game and vice versa,” said Metz. “The men
are somewhat stronger and faster, but the women know more about shot placement and which shots are most effective”. The womens’ softball team ended the season 17-3 in the conference, 32-12 overall and 6th nationally and will play fall ball. Coach Kevin Vests’ baseball team had sort of a rough going in the 2013 season with a 18-28 record, but hopefully things turn around for our sluggers in 2014. All this said, RVC looks to dominate the competition. Will they? That my friends, is another story altogether.
Rock The Valley Forge
alley Sports Award-Winning Student Newspaper of Rock Valley College
09.17.2013 / vol. 54, no. 1
Scalloped Potatoes...Tasers...
The New World of Golf
Photo courtesy of theguardian.com
Ian Poulter
Nick Faldo
Photo courtesy of seattletimes.com
By Shaquil Manigault random shouting during Sports Writer the tournament. “We should be allowed Golf, and especial- to take 10,000 volt tasly the major champion- ers onto the course and ships, has some of the taser every muppet who most strict traditions shouts out something of any other American stupid. I would laugh sport. then,” tweeted Poulter. Tradition says spectaSo, according to Poultors come to the match, ter, golf should use taswatch the golfer tee ers on their paying fans. off, clap and go to the How much Poulter’s next hole. One (possi- 61st place finish had to bly drunken) fan decid- do with his anger about ed to switch it up a bit the fans is unknown, by yelling “scalloped po- but the man who actualtatoes” at the top of his ly won the tournament, lungs after one of Adam Jason Dufner had no Scott’s shots. problems with it. He acSomething as simple tually thought it might as yelling during a sport- bring a little more exciteing event has seemed to ment, admitting that the cause an uproar in the game of golf can get a tad golf community, most bit boring at some monotably from golfer Ian ments. Poulter. People like PoulPoulter had multi- ter and NBC comple tweets showcasing mentator Nick Faldo, his displeasure with the who also didn’t like the yelling, are well
soiled in the tradition of golf. Poulter, who has been playing since he was four, and Faldo, a former golfer, deemed the yelling “inappropriate.” But why though? Is it really that disrespectful to yell out different foods after the golfer has already swung? Or maybe they are just not huge fans of potatoes. Nonetheless, it is not as if they are swearing at the top of their lungs or even yelling during a golfers’ swing. People pay to come to these events and are there for up to five hours. So what if somebody decides to have a little harmless fun. Who knows, it might actually benefit the game and make it more appealing to a younger generation.
P.E.D.’s? Yeah, You Know Me By Chris Dobson Sports Writer
The world of performance enhancing drugs is as big now as it was in the 1980’s and 1990’s. The difference now is that we know there are P.E.D.’s out there, that we test for them, and that they are now banned. Back in the day Major League Baseball just simply turned a blind eye to the use and it actually brought us some very interesting seasons to watch. We saw McGuire and Sosa going at
it in the homerun races, Canseco stealing 40 bases and hitting 40 homeruns in a single season, as well as many other baseball players doing amazing things. Now this world has invaded other professional sports such as, cycling, boxing, football, basketball and surely other sports that haven’t come forward yet. P.E.D.’s are still a major problem and growing. Let us not forget the fact that the homerun king, Barry Bonds is tainted as well as many other men in the history books, which is just
sad if you are a true fan of professional sports. But if commisioners like Bud Selig and Roger Goodell are going to just simply hand out pathetic little suspensions to players for using these substances, the players will just keep using them. One can argue and say...well, Ryan Braun and A-Rod aren’t recieving pathetic little suspensions. Well, is a half a season for Braun and a full season for A-Rod really going to hurt them? These boys are still millionaires and are going to be
just fine. Plus they’ll get to play again after their suspensions are up. Fans are seeing NFL players getting busted for the same substances and only getting1-4 game suspensions. If the commissioners of their respected leagues and other sports officials don’t start threatening and enforcing life long bans on these players, we won’t see the world of performance enhancing drugs disappear anytime soon.