Vol. 82, Issue #24
The Anchor Rhode Island College
April 6, 2010
Ocean State of emergency
rhode island battered by historic torrential rains Coverage on pages 3, 6, 14-15
Warwick Mall’s parking lot became a lake in the wake of last week’s unprecedented rainfall.
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Anchor Photo/Katie Larsh
April 6, 2010
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Contact Editor-in-Chief Kameron Spaulding editorinchief@anchorweb.org
Managing Editors Katie Carroll Casey Gaul managing@anchorweb.org
Business Manager Vacant business@anchorweb.org
News Editor Vacant news@anchorweb.org
Lifestyles Editor Adam D. Bram opinions@anchorweb.org
A&E Editor Justin Wilder arts@anchorweb.org
Sports Editor Andrew Augustus sports@anchorweb.org
Layout Editors Sam Mandeville Daniel Jordan layout@anchorweb.org
Photography Editor Mandy Wray Dion photography@anchorweb.org
Graphics Editor Zach Serowik graphics@anchorweb.org
Copy Editor Nicholas J. Lima
What’s Inside RIC F alendar
eatured
WXIN Rock Hunt Night 1 Tues., April 6 8 p.m. Firehouse XIII 41 Central St., Providence Open to: Public $5 cover charge / $3 with RIC ID Sponsored by WXIN
Feature:
Abstraction in Providence Wed., April 7 Bannister Gallery Open to: Public Sponsored by Bannister Gallery
Gradfest ‘10 Wed., April 7 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. Student Union Ballroom Open to: Graduating Seniors Sponsored by the Commencement Office SCG Finance Commission Meeting Wed., April 7 12:30 – 2 p.m. Parliament Chambers, Student Union 307 Open to: Public Sponsored by Student Community Government, Inc. Student Parliament Regular Meeting Wed., April 7 7 p.m. Parliament Chambers, Student Union 307 Open to: Public Sponsored by Student Community Government, Inc.
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Ivy Locke
RIC remembers Vice President of Administration and Finance Ivy Denise Locke. Page 4
Lifestyles:
Love mistakes Common
dating
that
should
Page 16
sense.
be
errors common
A&E:
RIC brings out from
Sports: Curling Anchor
editors hit the ice
and try their hand at a
little curling, eh?
Technology Director Alex Tirrell
technology@anchorweb.org
Page 26
Advertising Manager Vacant ads@anchorweb.org
Circulation Manager Adam Chapasko distribution@anchorweb.org
Faculty Advisor Lloyd Matsumoto lmatsumoto@ric.edu
Professional Advisors Doug Hadden Rudy Cheeks
Campus Climate Tuesday Mostly Sunny High 74 Low 57
Wednesday Mostly Sunny High 81 Low 58
Thursday Cloudy High 76 Low 52
Despite programs aimed at helping Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans, the unemployment rate hit 14.7 percent last month. The number of unemployed veterans increased by nearly 40,000 in February, according to figures gathered from the Department of Labor Statistics, and has left 250,000 veterans without jobs. “It’s unforgiveable that new veterans are bearing the brunt of the economic downturn,” said Tom Tarantino, legislative associate for the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, to CNN. “This is no way to welcome a new generation of heroes home.” According to data gathered by the Labor Department the rate of unemployment for veterans has risen by nearly 15 percent since 2007. From 6.1 percent in 2007, to 7.3 in 2008, in 2009 10.2, and in 2010 it has reached 14.7. – Anchor Wire Report
Fine Print
the music
Check out the latest RIC performing arts. Page 22
National News
Friday Showers High 73 Low 54
Numbers
General 401.456.8280 Advertising 401.456.8544 Editor-in-Chief 401.456.8790 Fax 401.456.8792 Web www.anchorweb.org General Information info@anchorweb.org The Anchor is student-run and published weekly during the academic year. Editorial decisions for The Anchor are made by a majority vote of its student editorial board. No form of censorship will be imposed by the college. Any material found to be unsuitable or unacceptable in the board’s opinion will not be published. The views expressed in The Anchor, unless otherwise noted, are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent those of The Anchor or of Rhode Island College’s faculty, administration or student body. The first copy is free. Each additional copy is $2.25. Copyright © 2010 The Anchor. All rights reserved.
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News
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April 6, 2010
Page 3
Anchor Photo/Katie Larsh
Half-submerged cars are left stranded in the flooded parking lot of the Warwick Mall.
Historic flooding shuts down college, frustrates students By Casey Gaul Managing Editor
Last week, Rhode Island was hit by a record-setting rainstorm that left a large portion of the state under water. The flooding resulted in, among other things, Rhode Island College classes and activities being canceled from Tuesday afternoon through Thursday. An e-mail from College Spokesperson Jane Fusco canceling all Tuesday classes and activities from 1 p.m. on went out to student mailboxes at 12:04 p.m. that day. The e-mail said that President Carriuolo was canceling “due to the torrential rainfall and road flooding.”
Carriuolo’s message the next morning canceling all classes for Wednesday, March 31, reached student mailboxes at 7:29 a.m., leaving little notice for commuter students who had already left for their 8 a.m. classes that morning. The RIC administration themselves didn’t get the word that Governor Carcieri had closed down state government until 45 minutes earlier. The Recreation Center remained open for the day. Wednesday afternoon, Carriuolo sent out notice that, while the governor was reopening state offices, all classes would be canceled again on Thursday, April 1. According to a message
from Fusco, RIC’s cancellation did not make it to some of the local media advisories due to a malfunction of the Rhode Island Broadcasters Association emergency alert system. The college’s emergency text messaging system, a service provided to RIC by Apogee, “had inadvertently blocked traffic as part of a technical upgrade,” said Fusco. This issue may possibly lead to an eventual switch in service providers. While there was no major damage to be found on campus when the rainstorm ended midweek, students reported to The Anchor that there was minor to See CAMPUS Page 6
R.I. doesn’t stand alone in disaster recovery By David Okon Anchor Staff Writer
In order to aid Rhode Islanders in what President Barack Obama declared to be an emergency disaster area, the federal government is providing assistance for victims of the recent flooding. Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano recently visited Rhode Island to tour the flooded areas in order to assess the damage and also to discuss actions for relief and recovery with state and district representatives. Rhode Island officials have been clamoring for federal
aid since the disaster started. According to the Providence Journal, members of the congressional delegation are looking for a waiver of the usual 25 percent contributions from states and municipalities required in order to receive federal aid, and Providence Mayor David Cicilline requested federal grants, as opposed to the low-interest government loans currently being provided for relief. “These people need grants, not loans, that are available right away, while they’re trying to figure out how to pay to See RECOVERY Page 6
April 6, 2010
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News
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A tearful tribute
Vice President Ivy Locke remembered at memorial service attended by hundreds By Nicholas J. Lima Anchor Editor
Courtesy of What’s News Online
In a memorial service that was at times tearful, somber and even humorous, Rhode Island College remembered Ivy Denise Locke on Monday. Hundreds of members of the RIC community attended the service, including several close relatives of the late vice president for administration and finance. Locke, who died unexpectedly early on March 26, served as the college’s executive officer in charge of operations, finances and facilities since Jan. 2006. She was admitted to the hospital and underwent testing on the evening of March 25, and died several hours later. “Every student that had experiences with Ivy loved her,” Student Community Government, Inc. President Joshua Laguerre told the attendees. Malinda Bridges, a student intern who worked in Locke’s office, was the only student other than Laguerre to speak at the memorial. “Through life she gave us hope and most importantly, love,” she said. “I know she is looking down on us and smiling.” In a fitting tribute to Locke, the Student Union Ballroom was a sea of blue Monday afternoon. At the request of Carriuolo, many of the attendees wore blue shirts, suits, ties and dresses – Locke’s favorite color. A lengthy list of speakers who worked with or knew Locke had the crowd laughing, reminiscing and on occasion choking back tears throughout the 90-minute memorial. “We, as friends and colleagues of Ivy Locke, are all in shock as we try to make sense of her death,” said Robert Bower, director of Publishing Services and PSA president. “It was a joy to walk into Ivy’s office… her presence put your mind at ease,” he said. Among other students seen in attendance were Senior Class President Kervin Leonidas, SCG Secretary Shawn Andrews, Treasurer Nicholas Bernardo, Speaker Nicholas Lima, Deputy Speaker
Christopher Volcy and Parliament Representatives Anike Akinbulumo and Kameron Spaulding. Numerous members of RSA and other student organizations filled a portion of the hundreds of seats set up in the room. Former student government leaders, such as past SCG President Christopher Buonanno, Vice President Jennifer Almeida, Treasurer Christopher Kelly and Rep. Mariama Kurbally were present, as well. All worked closely with Locke on campus improvement projects, such as The Galley Café, which was conceived, implemented and completed during Locke’s tenure. The majority of those present were from various departments of RIC’s faculty, staff and administration. WXIN suspended programming during the service, broadcasting the memorial in its entirety live over the Internet and 90.7 FM; Anchor TV recorded the memorial and will replay it over the campus television network. The majority of Locke’s family, who reside in Atlanta, Ga., were unable to attend the RIC ceremony. Locke’s funeral was held on Saturday in Atlanta and attended by Carriuolo, an act that Locke’s family members said was a gracious gesture. Many of the speakers alluded to Locke’s always-smiling nature and cheerful outlook on life. “She never was without a sense of humor,” said Dr. Thomas Locke III, her brother and one of several relatives who were able to come to RIC to be part of the memorial. Several remembrance speeches referenced Locke’s love of the ocean and a map of Rhode Island she had in her office. The map was covered with red dot stickers, marking the places Locke has visited in the state, and was updated almost weekly. Many also told stories of the “serenity corner” Locke kept in her office, filled with various items she had come across in her travels, such as rocks from the beach. They said they visited her office when they needed tranquility, too. “Her life was more than being a
News successful administrator – she grasped the art of life,” said Robert Tetreault, assistant vice president for human resources, who recalled multiple stories about his interactions with Locke over the last four years. “She held a very key spot in this institution as vice president of administration and finance. It’s a very complicated, very demanding position,” Tetreault said. But, he said, you would never know it by the positive way she interacted with people. He choked up as he called her a role model, cheerleader and friend. RIC students Cory Waldron and Martha Gannon each performed musical tributes during the memorial, the latter singing George Gershwin’s “Someone to Watch Over Me.” A brief video tribute, containing pictures of Locke from her time at RIC and quotes from her friends who have posted on her Facebook wall upon learning of her death, was put together by Director of Web Communications Karen Rubino and Assistant to the President Michael Smith. Also speaking at the memorial were Dean of the Faculty Jason Blank, College Archivist Marlene Lopes and Budget Director Roxann Johnson-Nance. An invocation was given by the Rev. Larry Nichols. While no word has been released yet on when a search for a successor to Locke’s position at RIC will begin, the college has taken efforts since her death to remember the vice president’s accomplishments. The video tribute recognized Locke’s contributions to the completion of several campus capital projects, including the New Residence Hall, Building 3 and The Galley, and the newly renovated Building 7, now home to the Sherlock Center on Disabilities. For now, the RIC Foundation has set up a memorial fund in honor of Locke. In her closing remarks at the memorial service, Carriuolo said funds raised may go to a permanent tribute to Locke at RIC. “We’ll be planning something in conjunction with Dr. Locke’s family,” she said.
April 6, 2010
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Anchor Photos/Hayden James
April 6, 2010
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CAMPUS from page
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moderate flooding, leaking and standing water in Gaige Hall, Browne and the Craig-Lee Costume Studio, among other locations. Travel to and from RIC was seriously hindered by the closing of local roads and Interstate 95. The closure of the state’s major north-south highway created massive traffic backups on I-295 and other state and local roads. It reopened late Thursday. Dozens of planned events were cancelled on campus, including the 4th Annual Anchor vs. WXIN Basketball Game, which has not yet been rescheduled. Student Community Government, Inc. Secretary Shawn Andrews also
announced that the deadline for clubs to submit their STORGY Awards nomination packets was extended through Tuesday of this week. All RIC classes and activities resumed on Friday, April 2. The resumption of normal activities was also announced to the RIC community via an e-mail blast. In all, RIC administrators sent as many as 11 such blasts to students, faculty and staff last week, many informing the RIC community about road closures and travel conditions. Still, many commuters on campus were disappointed in the short notice afforded to them on Wednesday morning, when conditions throughout Rhode Island were at their worst.
News
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– With reporting by Anchor Editor Nicholas J. Lima
Anchor Photo/Steve Rys
Several inches of standing water surround Weber Hall.
RECOVERY from page
Anchor Photo/Steve Rys
A maintenance worker cleans up water damage on campus.
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have their basements pumped or to have a contractor come test the electrical equipment for safety,” the mayor said. According to the Providence Journal, Obama called Governor Carcieri’s office last week and said that the federal government would supply whatever resources the state needs to recover from the floods; he also gave Carcieri a phone number to call the president directly if Rhode Island had trouble getting federal assistance. As a result of the declaration of Rhode Island counties as disaster areas, the deadline for Rhode Islanders to file and pay their taxes has been extended from April 15 to May 11. “Normally, extensions apply only for filing a return; the balance due must be paid by April 15. But in this case, May
11 is the deadline for filing and for paying,” IRS spokeswoman Peggy Riley told the Providence Journal over the weekend. This deadline applies to all Rhode Islanders, not just the ones affected by the flood damages. In terms of unemployment assistance, the state Department of Labor and Training is providing unemployment assistance for flood-affected companies and is waiving both taxes businesses are charged when an employee files for unemployment assistance and the one-week waiting period for employees who file for unemployment insurance. Thanks to the federal Disaster Unemployment Assistance program, people who are self employed can now receive unemployment benefits, along with people who can’t work as a result of the flood. According to the Providence Journal, Susan Trocina, an employment and labor manager with DLT, told attendees to a DLT session,
“If you know someone who couldn’t get to work because their car was underwater, they may be entitled to benefits.” “This type of event is not recovered from in a day or two days,” Secretary Napolitano said in a Department of Homeland Security press release. “We are going to have to dig in our heels, work our way out, and really bring Rhode Island back to where it was before this flood event occurred. We are committed through FEMA and through the other agencies…to helping get this important work done.” FEMA is providing financial assistance for Rhode Islanders who need temporary housing, with flood damage repair and with serious needs caused by the floods, including heath, dental, transportation, vehicle replacement and moving and storage. Those affected can apply for assistance at www.FEMA.gov or by calling 1-800-621-FEMA from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. seven days a week.
News
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April 6, 2010
Page 7
Suicide intervention can save lives By Gita Brown What’s News Online
Suicide is a topic shrouded in stigma and shame, yet according to data gathered by the Counseling Center, more than half of all college students contemplate suicide at one point in their college career. According to the center, suicide is the second-leading cause of death among college students after accidents. Counseling Center Director Tom Lavin is hoping to remove the stigma by educating the campus community through a series of suicide intervention seminars held on March 9, 11 and 17. Lavin and staff counselors Denise DeSesa-Smith, Saeromi Kim and Janet Park led the sessions. One of the first questions most people ask is what causes a student to commit suicide. RIC’s counselors cited a number of reasons. “Transitioning to college is very difficult for young people,” said Lavin. “For the first time, 18- and 19-year-olds are independently managing their own lives, yet their brains have not fully matured. They aren’t able to regulate and manage stress. Brain studies have found that the brain doesn’t fully mature until the mid-20s.” Brain maturation also affects a young person’s ability to think ahead and envision future consequences, said Park. “People 15 to 25 years of age find it very difficult to see the future – to see what comes next,” she said. “At that age, they have a very limited view of what is possible, and this can bring on a kind of desperation.” Biological factors coincide with environmental factors, Lavin said, “RIC has had few reported cases of suicide, due to the fact that 90 percent of RIC’s students are commuters still living at home with their family.” Psychological factors are
FIRST
Ask the person directly if they are having thoughts of suicide.
SECOND
Persuade them to stay alive. Say, “I want you to live.”
FINALLY
Refer them to a professional. Call for help or take them directly to someone who can help. Try not to leave them alone until you can get help. determinants, as well. Mood disorders, such as bipolar disorder, begin to emerge at age 18 or 19, said Lavin. Social and academic pressures also factor in, said Kim, “The social structure of college life may make a student feel like they can’t connect with anyone – that they have no one to talk to. They may also feel academic pressure to make something of their life.” All these factors are heightened by the abuse of alcohol and drugs, Kim said. According to data collected by the Counseling Center, 30 to 40 percent of suicides involve the use of alcohol or drugs. “Drugs and alcohol not only increase feelings of depression, they also allow the user to release inhibitions,” Kim said. The difficulty for the college community is that these
students are often unwilling to connect with potential helpers. “Depressed students rarely seek counseling or treatment,” Kim said. “More often than not, they will confide in a peer before they confide in a counselor. Therefore, their peers become extremely important in intervention. Engaged listening by a peer who cares can make a difference.” RIC’s counselors are urging the entire campus community to get involved in intervention. They ask that you look and listen for the following signs when engaged with a deeply depressed student: Listen for direct verbal statements, such as, “I wish I was dead.” Listen for indirect verbal clues, such as, “People would be better off without me” or “I just want out.” And look for behavioral clues, such as drastic changes in behavior and personality, isolating from friends, loss of interest in personal appearance, loss of appetite and sleep, taking unnecessary risks and increasing the use of drugs or alcohol. At the conclusion of these seminars, Lavin expressed hope in continued intervention education and training at RIC, particularly among student groups and organizations. “It’s going to take more than the Counseling Center to reach students in crisis,” he said. “It’s going to take a community of student peers, faculty and administration. It’s going to take a village. Intervention – it has been proven – saves lives.”
Courtesy of CarmelLutheran.org
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News
April 6, 2010
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Operation Deception
Drug ring uncovered within Providence police By Jordan Baptista Anchor Contributor
On March 4, three Providence police officers were arrested on drug-related charges, following a fourmonth cocaine investigation by the FBI and R.I. State Police. The undercover investigation, named “Operation Deception,” included the wiretapping of suspects’ phones, placing tracking devices on suspects’ cars and photographic surveillance of the suspects. Among those arrested were Detective Joseph Colanduono, 44, of West Warwick, Patrolman Robert Hamlin, 33, of East Providence and Sergeant Stephen Gonsalves, 47, of Providence. Khalid Mason, 34, of Central Falls, Albert Hamlin, 28, of Providence, brother of Patrolman Hamlin, Jameson Hassett, 24 and Scott Lamont, 45, of Coventry were also arrested. All have pleaded not guilty. Affidavits allege that all aforementioned suspects were co-conspirators and part of
a high-level, statewide drug operation, regularly yielding tens of thousands of dollars in profit. Investigators also accuse Albert Hamlin of leading the enterprise. Albert Hamlin routinely purchased kilograms of cocaine for $35,000 per unit from Khalid Mason, the alleged supplier of the drug ring, and later sold the drug in quantities of one gram for a subsequent total of $100,000. Officers searched the Central Falls residence of Mason, where they discovered information leading them to one of Mason’s unknown Providence dwellings. At the Salmon Street home in Providence, officers seized 125 grams of crack cocaine. Mason, who has an extensive criminal history having served just nine months of a 10-year sentence before being paroled in 1999, has been charged with cocaine possession and intent to distribute cocaine. Ironically enough, Mason’s lawyer is none other than John Cicilline, Providence Mayor David Cicilline’s
older brother. Mason is currently being held without bail. Perhaps the most damaging of evidence is against the brother of Patrolman Hamlin, Albert. While under heavy surveillance, he was photographed with narcotics – in the passenger seat of his brother’s silver Isuzu. An affidavit reads, “Albert B. Hamlin conducted the illegal narcotics transaction while in the direct presence of his brother, Patrolman Robert J. Hamlin.” Investigators assert not only that Patrolman Hamlin authorized his brother’s selling of narcotics but also helped Albert avoid his fellow officers. Patrolman Hamlin gave his brother the names and vehicle descriptions of Providence narcotic officers, according to the Providence Journal. During a morning search of Albert Hamlin’s two residences, Providence Police seized 300 grams of cocaine, a small amount of marijuana, $9,000 in cash and a loaded handgun. Albert Hamlin has been
charged with numerous counts of possession with intent to deliver cocaine, conspiracy to deliver cocaine and possession of one kilogram of cocaine among an array of other charges. He is being held without bail. Patrolman Hamlin has been charged with two counts of conspiracy to deliver cocaine and is also being held without bail. In addition to the brothers’ illicit activity, the most shocking revelation of the scandal is the story of Sgt. Gonsalves. Gonsalves, a cocaine user, was Mayor Cicilline’s driver for the first years of his mayoral term and the husband to Cicilline’s executive assistant, Xiomara Gonsalves. Just days before the arrests, Gonsalves was recorded on a wiretap asking Colanduono to facilitate a purchase of cocaine with Albert Hamlin. Gonsalves has been charged with four counts of criminal solicitation but is the only defendant to be released on his recognizance. Detective Colanduono is charged with four counts of
conspiracy to deliver cocaine and one count of compounding and concealing a felony. The two other civilians arrested in connection to the drug ring, Jameson Hassett and Scott Lamont, are charged with two counts of conspiracy and soliciting another to commit a crime, respectively. In spite of being intertwined in such illicit activity, Mayor Cicilline said that these actions of the officers “[do] not represent the good and honorable work of the great men and women of the Providence Police Department, and if these allegations are proven, these individuals must be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.” Although just three officers were arrested in the drug sting, four additional officers, three of whom are in the narcotics unit, were later placed on desk duty, while three narcotics officers and one patrolman were placed on administrative leave pending further investigation.
News
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April 6, 2010
Page 9
Haiti struggle continues By Nicole Leonard Anchor Contributor
The Republic of Haiti is still trying to recover from the most devastating earthquake to hit their country in over 200 years. The Jan.12 earthquake has killed more than 200,000 thousand and left over one million Haitians homeless while causing billions of dollars in property damage. Haiti is the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere, with a GDP of only $11 billion; very small in comparison to the United State’s $14 trillion. At such a desperate time, Haiti has been looking to other to other countries for support. French President Nicolas Sarkozy has recently made a trip to Haiti, making him the first French president to do so. He spoke on the grounds of Haiti’s national palace, stating that he wished to “help the Haitian people” and offered $250 million in relief funds. There have been mixed reviews concerning the French president’s visit. Some citizens
were still bitter over the sour history between Haiti and France. Haiti was once one of the wealthiest nations in the Caribbean until France came into their country demanding 90 million pieces of gold in exchange for recognizing Haiti’s independence. Haiti has never gotten over that crippling debt. There was a donors’ meeting in Montreal recently, where many countries were invited to help with the relief efforts in Haiti. Noticeably absent were Cuba and Venezuela, who have both helped Haiti in the past. Cuba has sent medical supplies as well as doctors, many of who were there when the earthquake hit. Venezuela has given Haiti $250 million and then later relinquished responsibility to pay it back. They were not invited to the meeting due to political issues. Many public officials are looking for solutions to help rebuild Haiti. Some think the president should order an immediate evacuation of all troops, while others believe that there needs to be a bi-partisan
election for president. Many attribute the economic instability as a result of 93 percent of Haitians living outside of Haiti. There have also been negative feelings towards people who have taken advantage of Haiti by hiding behind charity to further their own agenda. At Rhode Island College,
several student organizations, such as WXIN and L.I.F.E., have expressed a continuing effort to raise money for Haiti. WXIN announced that the 4th Annual Anchor vs. WXIN Basketball Game would feature a $2 suggested donation at the door. However, last week’s flooding and corresponding
state of emergency caused the postponement of the game; no rescheduled date has been announced. Recovery efforts in Haiti are a continuing endeavor and it will most likely take years to rebuild what was lost. – With reporting by Anchor Editor Nicholas J. Lima
Courtesy of Yovia.com
Canadian nation-building forces help treat injured Haitians.
Courtesy of ChinaDaily.com
United Nations troops provide food and bottled water for children.
April 6, 2010
Page 10
Comics
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Comics
April 6, 2010
Page 11
Editorial
April 6, 2010
Page 12
opinions@anchorweb.org
Off-campus nursing building an appalling idea When budgets are tight, sometimes institutions come up with great ways to save money, and Rhode Island College has been a shining example of that over the last few years – until now. The idea of the proposed nursing building being shared with the University of Rhode Island and located off campus makes our skin crawl. Why would the premier nursing program in the state – ours – want to combine with URI? What has been proposed is a 121,000 square-foot shared nursing building, to be built near the hospitals in the new land being cleared by the Iway project known as the “Knowledge District.” To be built in 2012, it is a scary sign for the future of RIC. We are all for working together, but this seems like what many of us here at RIC fear the most – combining us with URI. Wasn’t it just a month ago that we had a Master Plan charrette here on campus that the administration lobbied so hard for the students to attend? Well, at those meetings and hearings, the largest topic of discussion was the building of a new nursing building on campus. There was even a station where members of the college community were asked to place a red sticker where they wanted to see the proposed building. There were a myriad number of stickers on the field right by Fogarty Life Science, but we didn’t see
any stickers far off the map saying, “Let’s build it way downtown and separate one of our largest majors from our campus.” RIC is a proud and well-standing institution, and we deserve better than a dirty, behind-closed-doors deal to sell one of our finer schools down the river. Why did this idea come out of nowhere, and why was no one brought into the loop until after it was announced and was about to go to the Board of Governors for a vote of endorsement? We would say that we are sure Higher Education Commissioner Ray Di Pasquale (who, it is worth noting, is also the president of CCRI) has RIC’s best interest at heart, if we could do so without throwing up. Ray, if it is such a good idea, why isn’t your school getting in on it? URI and RIC both already have programs to take students right in from the CCRI nursing program to ours, so CCRI should join in if we have, too. The truth of this is that the Board of Governors and the colleges are talking a big game, and then backing down and taking a sour deal shoved at them by a state that doesn’t care a lick about higher education. Let’s not fool ourselves. If this building goes up off campus in 2012, it’s not a new day for the RIC nursing program. It’s the last day.
– The Anchor Editorial Board
The Anchor Kameron Spaulding Editor-in-Chief
Katie Carroll Katherine Gaul Managing Editors
News Editor Sports Editor Lifestyles Editor A&E Editor Photography Editor Layout Editors Copy Editor Graphics Editor Business Manager Advertising Manager Technology Director Circulation Manager Faculty Advisor Professional Advisor
Vacant Andrew Augustus Adam D. Bram Justin Wilder Mandy Wray Dion Samantha Mandeville Daniel Jordan Nicholas J. Lima Zach Serowik Vacant Vacant Alex Tirrell Adam Chapasko Lloyd Matsmumoto Doug Hadden
Staff Steven Barthelemy, George Bissell, Adam Bram, Rob Duguay, Laura Horton, Julie Kessler, Jonathan Kmieciak, Bethany L’Etoile, Rob Lefebvre, David Okon, Edward Taylor, Alexandra Weston
Opinions
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April 6, 2010
Page 13
I saw the sign By Adam D. Bram Stark Raving Mad
Ladies and gentlemen, this may come as a shock to you. Signs mean things. If someone puts up a sign, nine times out of 10 it’s there for a reason. Nine times out of those 10, it means the thing it says on the sign. Last week, when torrential downpours turned this state into the country’s largest water park, I saw people go the wrong way on one-way streets, and go around signs that said “Do Not Enter.” Let me repeat that: a street was blocked off with a do not enter sign, and cars went around them anyway. I don’t know about you, but when I see a sign that says “Do Not Enter,” I’m under the im-
pression that people don’t want other people to go that way. I don’t think it means “This Way to Loose Showgirls.” I don’t think it means “Free Nachos in 30 Feet.” I think it means “Do Not Enter.” That’s what it says on the sign, after all. But perhaps I’m missing the real issue here. Maybe it’s not that people don’t know how to interpret the meanings of written signs. Perhaps this is a symptom of a larger disease. In fact, I believe this is a phenomenon that is easy to observe. In short, I believe that the vast majority of the human race is unable to effectively operate a motor vehicle in inclement weather. The late, great George Carlin once observed that people driving slower than you are idiots and those driving faster are maniacs. Have you ever noticed that in rain or snow, no matter
how much actual precipitation there is, the idiots are far more idiotic and the maniacs are far more maniacal? People act like their car is going to fall apart if it goes through liquid at a decent speed, and those who don’t cause a lot of accidents. Plus, have you ever noticed that as soon as some form of sky-liquid hits the pavement, people lose the ability to merge into traffic? This is one of the reasons I don’t drive. It’s just a bit of water. Yes, you have to be a little more careful, but you don’t have to go nuts about it. You don’t have to panic because your machine is a little wet. You passed the driving test, use what you learned. And, just for the record, people expect you to stop at the big red sign that says “STOP” on it. Courtesy of rofl.wheresthebeef.co.uk
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Letters to the Editor Do you SCG procedure? have a Campus policy? strong opinion Recent political decisions? about: Send us a letter! We want to know your opinon! For more information or to submit a story contact Anchor Editor-in-Chief Kameron Spaulding at: editorinchief@anchorweb.org
Anchor Photos/Katie Larsh
(Above) Georgiaville pond overflows to the point of sweeping away nearby structures. (Below) The stream coming off of Greystone Mill Pond where it intersects Route 44.
Flood The record flood that left a significant part of the state under water left the Rhode Island College campus relatively
Anchor Photo/Steve Rys
unscathed. Closed roads and torrential downpours did result in RIC classes being canceled for two and a half days.
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Photo of the Week
April 6, 2010
Page 15
This week’s winner:
Nicole Paynich
Q.
Shooting the RIC Faculty/ Alumni Dance Concert last month was a marriage of my two favorite hobbies: technical theater and photography. It’s a treat to photograph performers on a stage because the environment lends itself to a result that is explicitly an art form, but there is also a candid quality to it. These people are doing what they are passionate about, and what comes natually to them. I enjoy trying to capture that with a camera.
Submit photos to photography@anchorweb.org
How did the flooding affect your home or hometown? Diana Rivera Nursing 2012 Well it didn’t really affect my home, but my dorm got flooded.
Chris Scagos Theatre 2013 I have yet to find my cat Tommy because of the flood. He lives in the basement. =(
Evan Cloutier Music Composition 2012 I had about half an inch of water in my basement. That’s about it.
Steven Gagne Psychology 2012 No. The flooding did not affect my activities. I commute to school daily and managed to get home before any major flooding occurred.
Heida Shadrauan Accounting 2011 I live in Warwick. On Wednesday morning I tried to venture out on a trip, which should normally take 5-8 minutes. I got stuck in gridlock traffic on Post Rd. and Jefferson Blvd. for 1 hour and 45 minutes and never reached my destination because I gave up and went home.
Monica Ferreira Secondary Ed. Spanish & Portugese 2013 My city (Cumberland) got flooded. I was thankful that my house did not get flooded.
April 6, 2010
Page 16
Lifestyles
lifestyles@anchorweb.org
You need more than love Common mistakes that seem like common sense Anchor Contributor
Love is in the air, and so is hatred and hurt. Everyone knows what they’re doing is wrong – that it will lead to heartache and pain – but we can’t help ourselves. Here is a list of common mistakes that we call people complete unethical morons for making, until we find ourselves in the same boat. Infidelity. Ahh, spring. When a young man’s fancy turns to screwing his assistant, and a young woman’s to mounting the gardener. This has always been a problem, but it seems even more relevant in these days of sex-addicted celebrities. The truth is, with very rare exceptions, all human beings are addicted to sex in one form or another. When people enter into a monogamous relationship, sooner or later both partners have fantasies of other people. Fantasies are fine, but too many people act on those fantasies when they know they’ll eventually get caught, and everyone gets hurt. I’m not saying I don’t understand the desire. As much as I love my girlfriend, sometimes I feel like I’d love a little variety. However, having consensual sex with someone when you’ve agreed to be exclusive to someone else is not only mean, but incredibly stupid. And, while I concede that it might be slightly easier for a man to throw his self-control out the window due to our being hard-wired to spread our genes as far as possible, women are the offenders just as many times. If you really can’t stand your mate anymore, and truly love the other person, at least be decent enough to break up with your current significant other before doing anything sexual with anyone else. Otherwise suck it up, watch some
decent porn (you ladies can, too) and appreciate what you have. Dishonesty. This is another thing that seems like a no-brainer, and actually partly ties into why the above is so bad. Even the most honest human being will, once in a while, tell a little white lie in order to save ourselves. This works until we get caught in it. Relationships are no exception. The worst offenders are people lying about their entire lives just to get into someone else’s pants. However, people also lie about where they spent their night, what their relationship status is at the beginning of the dating process and even about what kind of things they like. You can like someone, admire someone and even be attracted to someone for what they present, but you never truly love someone until you’ve seen them stumble. Be yourself and let people in so they can love you for you. Don’t lie, or else the trust is broken, and it’s hard to repair. Try not to keep secrets, unless it’s something innocuous like a birthday present or something, and even then don’t lie – merely omit certain truths. Yet, we’ve all done this. I’ve done this, something I’m not proud of since I try my best to live brutally honest. Hiding your feelings. Technically this is a subcategory of dishonesty, but it’s a very different kind. Some perfect relationships never even get off the ground because the people involved are too frightened to tell each other how they really feel. Many more relationships end prematurely because either one partner was too scared to say the words “I love you,” or the other was too scared to hear it. This is indicative of the vicious cycle I mentioned earlier.
Some cynical ass hurts another person, thereby turning that person into a cynical ass, and so on and so forth. But we’re all afraid, aren’t we? We’re afraid of rejection; we’re afraid of pain; we’re afraid of admitting our own feelings. However, as much as our survival instinct kicks in for good or ill, some of the best experiences of people’s lives happen when they throw caution to the wind. I’ve been hurt many times before, but I never stopped putting myself out there. Granted, it got harder to ask people out, and sometimes wish they’d ask me to spare me the nerves. But we all have to learn to throw caution to the wind and go after what we want. Assuming, of course, we don’t already have it at home.
Write for The Anchor
By Joseph Kerr
Courtesy of mybroadband.co.ca
LIFESTYLES
We’re looking for advice on everything!
Food Health Drugs/Alcohol Sex Student Clubs Travel Technology For more information contact Anchor Lifestyles Editor Adam Bram lifestyles@anchorweb.org
Lifestyles
lifestyles@anchorweb.org
April 6, 2010
Page 17
Beading: a stylish and cost-effective hobby By Jayne Watson Anchor Contributor
You love jewelry, right? But do you hate the cost? Well, do I have a solution for you! You can make your own jewelry for much less money and you’ll feel better about it because you made it yourself. All you need is the time to sit down and do it right so it won’t fall apart while in the middle of a romantic dinner with your loved ones. Many of the supplies needed for making your own jewelry can be bought at Michael’s or even Wal-Mart. If you don’t plan on getting too fancy, there are only a few simple tools you will need. Obviously, you will need beads. I recommend trying to envision what outfits you would like to coordinate the particular piece with before buying any beads. Buy only what beads you think you will need. I have found over the years that if you buy a pack of beads that are just “pretty” your luck will be that you won’t be able to find anything to go with it, or you won’t have enough when
you finally decide to use them. By that time they are usually out of style and you are stuck with some really nice beads, but not much to do with them. Go online for ideas on how long you should make your jewelry and approximately how many beads of particular sizes you will need. The Michael’s Craft Store Web site has many reference tables that have proven to work well over the years. Fasteners (or clasps) should be decided upon when you buy the beads. Keep in mind where you will be wearing the jewelry and if you can or cannot put the clasp together on your own. There are so many types of clasps depending on the type and style of jewelry. Lobster clasps, fold over sets, toggles, magnetic, and barrel clasps are just a few. A bead board (also called a planning board) is a great idea but not required. A bead board is convenient because you can organize the beads in a certain pattern and then just run the threading through. It holds the beads still so you can put it aside if needed. There are many types of stringing materials you could
use. You could use a basic elastic wire, but this has the highest break rate. There is something stronger out there that, while a little harder to work with, has a better turnout in the long run. This is called jewelry wire, or tiger tail wire, and it comes in various sizes that are given in terms of width. You need to make sure that the holes in your beads are not smaller than your wire. If you are working with an elastic wire you should only need a few more things. You should invest in a crimp tool which is used for attaching crimp beads to hold on clasps. Do not try to use regular beads as crimp beads; this will not work. Crimp beads are made to bend with the tool and to wrap the stringing material tightly so it won’t move. Many jewelers recommend super glue to secure fastener and knots, but clear nail polish works just as well. If you decide to take on the challenge and work with tiger tail, you will need a few more tools, but they aren’t overly expensive. You will need different types of pliers to work with the wire and a wire cutter. Do not try to cut the wire with scissors. It makes the wire fray and can get very sharp. As for the pliers, there are many types and styles but the easiest, simple ones to work with are the round-nose pliers, flat-nose pliers,
and longn o s e pliers. Once you have all of your tools you are ready to get started. Step 1: Get all of your supplies in one area so you are organized. This leaves less room for error. Step 2: Decide the length of stringing material needed for the specific project. Tip: always cut about one and a half inch longer than you really need. Step 3: Organize your beads and clasps into the design you like. Step 4: Add you first clasp by adding a crimp bead and clasp and then putting the stringing material back down through the crimp bead. Then crimp the bead closed with the crimping tool. Step 5: Start stringing your beads. Tip: If you have a pendant that needs to be in the center, do not try to add beads to one side.
Both sides need to be even. Step 6: After the last bead had been added you will need to put on another crimp bead and the other part of the clasp. The string material needs to go back down through the crimp bead again. Make sure to pull it tight through so it is not loose. Then using the crimping tool, crimp the bead. Step 7: Once the bead has been crimped, add a touch of super glue or clear nail polish to the crimp beads to be sure they won’t budge. Step 8: Proudly wear your hand-made jewelry. So for the necklace at the mall that is over $100 you could make your own for around $50. Enjoy!
Lifestyles
April 6, 2010
Page 18
lifestyles@anchorweb.org
Weekly Warcraft: an introduction By Adam D. Bram Weekly Warcraft
Welcome to a new lifestyles column. “World of Warcraft” is arguably the most popular massively multiplayer online role-playing game (or MMORPG, or “Muhmmorpiguh”) around, or at least the one everyone is trying to match. And as there are millions of players, it stands to reason that a decent number go to this fine institution. This column is for you. I have been playing the game for about two years now. I’ve run at least one character of every race and class, though only a few for very long. I currently have six characters that I plan to keep around in one form or another, and plan to create more once new races and classes are revealed, if any. If you want fan fiction on these characters, read my comic strip “Craft on a Cracker” because you won’t find any of that here. I’m hardly what you’d call a noob, but I’m also not an extreme player who gives up his entire life to this thing. It’s a fun game and very immersive. I
play this game more than I play most games, and I feel like part of a community. But at the end of the day, it’s still a game, and I do have a life. I’m far from casual, but I’m also not elitist. As a moderate gamer, I feel I can reach the biggest audience. Right now, my focus is on my faction mains: Feyd, a Troll Shaman, and Wethrilli, a Draenei Hunter. Feyd is currently Level 66 and exploring Outland, while Wethrilli is Level 39 and stalking Stranglethorn Vale when not visiting Battlegrounds. My goal is to get them both as close to the current level cap of 80 as possible before the release of Cataclysm, when more time will be devoted to the new races. In the coming weeks, and hopefully semesters, I’ll be sharing my thoughts on this process and various things I like or dislike about the game as a whole. I hope that this will give new or casual players more insight and give everyone a decent laugh. This week, aside from introducing myself, I’d like to share some brief thoughts on the central conflict that puts the “war” in “Warcraft.” I play both sides because I like all the playable races (with the exception of humans, mostly
because I see those every day). Having played all sides, I’ve come to the conclusion that there is no good faction or bad faction. There are good and bad individuals in all races. The Alliance as a whole seems disturbingly prejudiced, but they stand for honorable things. The Horde as a whole seems dangerously prideful, but they, too, stand for honorable things. This feeds my one main dislike about the game. Alliance and Horde are always at war. A player can’t be neutral – they can’t even talk to players of the other faction. And don’t even think of going near an opposing base, even if it’s for exploration points. The players are far worse about this. I’ve always hated the “Thing X that I like is the best because and only because Thing Y I’m not interested in is a pile of Nazi demon feces and this is a fact” argument, but what makes it worse is that you can’t even take a decent walk on a PvP (Player vs. Player) server without someone trying to kill you for the fun of it, hence why my servers are PvE (Player vs. Environment). Yet, even though I play PvE, I keep my Alliance and Horde toons on different servers so I don’t have to run into anyone I know on the other side.
Courtesy of Blizzard Entertainment.
Granted, with the characterper-server limit and my minor alt-itis, this works out. But it’s still sad that this is necessary. I adore the world and the craft more than most things, but I just can’t stand the war. War is just horrible. I can only think of
a few times in history when it was actually needed, and even then it’s a shame it had to come to that. Maybe I’m just a hippy. I do have Elf alts, after all. Next week: A note on classes.
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April 6, 2010
Page 22
Arts & Entertainment
RIC brings out the music By Justin Wilder A&E Editor
One good thing about music is when it hits you feel no pain. So RIC’s going to hit you with some music. But, one problem with music is that when you’re hit, you might not understand it. Well, these two upcoming events have that covered, as well. On April 13 there will be a concert spotlighting the famous work of Frederic Chopin, in celebration of the 200th anniversary of his birth. Performed by Jeffrey Siegel’s Keyboard Conversations, a popular concert series now in its eighth season at RIC, it will start at 7:30 p.m. in Sapinsley Hall. A Keyboard Conversations concert is an unique experience as it features a discussion of the music, followed by a performance of the works and an informative questionand-answer session. The program will feature works of Chopin, as well as the music of composers he inspired: Tchaikovsky, Debussy, Scriabin and Szymanowski. Yoheved Kaplinsky, chair of the piano department at the Julliard School, describes Siegel as “that rare artist who can combine a superb performance with an illuminating, inspiring [and] educational experience. Keyboard Conversations is truly a treasure that will delight music lovers everywhere.” Siegel has showcased his talent by performing with orchestras in the U.S. and abroad, including the London Symphony, Moscow State Symphony, Los Angeles Philharmonic and Philadelphia Orchestra. Tickets are only $5 for RIC students and can be purchased at the Box Office in Roberts Hall. If you don’t have five bucks to spare, but are still looking for that music fix, then check out the final
Wednesday Chamber Music Series performance on April 14. RIC Faculty Chamber Players and special guests will perform English composer William Walton’s “Facade: An Entertainment with Poems by Edith Sitwell” at 1 p.m., also in Sapinsley Hall. “Facade” was written to accompany the poetry of Edith Sitwell. Judith Lynn Stillman, RIC music professor and artist in residence, and Thomas Lawlor, RIC adjunct faculty member, will take the place of Sitwell and Walton for this rendition of old theatre throwback. Walton spent much of his time in the 1920s living and composing in Sitwell’s family attic, and was considered to be an “adopted, or elected, brother,” according to Michael Kennedy’s book, “A Portrait of Walton.” The 43 numbers within this work are rooted in the new style of poetry that Sitwell evolved, said Edward Markward, RIC professor of music. Markward will conduct the performance, and is joined by RIC faculty members Mary Ellen Guzzio (flute), Ian Greitzer (clarinet), Joseph Foley (trumpet) and Michael DeQuattro (percussion). Jennifer Bill (saxophone) and Daniel Harp (cello), music faculty at Providence College and Brown University, respectively, will join the RIC faculty. Sitwells’s brother, Osbert, describes the poems as experiments through words in trying to obtain the rhythm of dance measures such as waltzes, polkas and foxtrots. Osbert thought that musical accompaniment would enhance the poetry, and the obvious composer choice was William Walton. The performance will present 16 of the original numbers, and will be followed by a question-and-answer session. Admission is free-ninety-nine.
arts@anchorweb.org
Bands battle it out at semifinals By Edward Taylor Anchor Staff Writer
Saturday, March 20, New England-based bands Herra Terra, You Scream I Scream and Flight Patterns took the stage at Jerky’s for a semifinal round of WBRU’s Rock Hunt. The Providence-based radio station holds their annual Rock Hunt where bands battle it out for a spot on the station’s playlist, and receive regular primetime radio play on the highly rated commercial radio station. The annual Rock Hunt has brought out talented local acts such as Monty Are I, who have gone on to headline at major local venues such as Lupo’s. The semifinal show at Jerky’s bar, above Club Hell at 71 Richmond St. in Providence, followed a battle of the bands-like style where a panel of judges determined which of the three bands would move on to the finals. The judges determined the winner by crowd
Courtesy of Youscreamiscream.com
reaction and participation. All three bands put their best foot forward and the show, which is $5 at the door, was well worth it. The first band to hit the stage was Herra Terra. The crowd still being on the small side, Herra Terra’s electronic rock sound went over well with the handful of people in the bar. The stage being constricted to begin with, along with Herra Terra’s amount of equipment, made it difficult for the band to have a great stage presence. Their music was good with a higher energy and was fun to listen to. I can see this band putting on a much better show on a larger stage. The second band, You Scream I Scream, hit the stage after a half hour break to set up and allow the bar to sell a few drinks before the battle began again. This band was met with mixed reactions. The front man (and also bassist) did a great job moving around the stage which made them easier to watch. The singer at one point jumped off the stage in front of the crowd and moved around the audience. However, most of the front row simply backed away from him, not really being into the music. he singer’s vocals were a bit on the dull side, and despite their name having the word “scream” in it twice, the singer basically talked into the microphone. The songs’ lyrics were repetitive to the point where some songs were almost one line said over and over again. The only part of their set that I actually enjoyed was a rap in Hebrew that made the crowd go wild. The only members of the audience that I saw dancing to You Scream I Scream were two girls, who ended up being the backup vocalists for the band. The third and final band was Flight Patterns. This highenergy band was fun to listen to and tried to get the crowd involved in their music. Hav-
Missed out but still seeking a musical fight? This week kicks off the WXIN Rock Hunt, blasting the local sounds of those close to campus. Head over to Firehouse XIII on Tuesday nights from now through May 4 as bands battle for your ear’s attention. Shows start at 8 p.m. and the cover is only $3 with a RIC ID. ing a stage full of equipment, the platform was crowded but they still managed to put on a high-energy show. The bassist danced around and the band used their own floor lighting equipment to add an extra element to their performance. Flight Patterns put on a solid show, and their vocals and instrumentals were top notch. With a great stage presence and even better sound, this band was definitely the crowd favorite of the night. With Flight Patterns walking off the stage well after midnight, the Rock Hunt semifinal drew to a close. The judges went to work determining the winner while the crowd continued to drink and debate who should move on. After some time of deliberation, You Scream I Scream was chosen to move on to the finals. The judge’s decision was met with mixed reaction with people both booing and cheering, but their decision was final. The judges felt that You Scream I Scream had an interesting sound, but most of the crowd was too happy. Personally, I feel Flight Patterns should have moved on. I don’t see You Scream I Scream winning in the Rock Hunt finals. The final round of WBRU’s Rock Hunt will take place on April 10 at Lupo’s.
April 6, 2010
Page 24
Arts & Entertainment
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Trans-Siberian Orchestra at PPAC By Maria Agostini Anchor Contributor
On March 31, the Providence Performing Art Center had a visit from one of the most well-known orchestras in the U.S., the Trans-Siberian Orchestra (TSO). With a one-night performance, they brought to life one of their CDs titled “Beethoven’s Last Night.” Just before every performance of the TSO, they donate $1 from every ticket sold to a local charity in the surrounding area. For this performance, the TSO, represented by guitarist Chris Caffery, graciously donated $2,000 to the Special Olympics of Rhode Island. “Beethoven’s Last Night” is not a normal concert, but more of a rock opera with special effects that include fog, lighting, laser effects and much more. With the very first song, “Overturn,” the audience cheered and applauded with pure amazement. The TSO kept people on the edge of their seats for every second.
Bryan Hicks, the narrator of the performance, tells us the story of Beethoven’s last night alive and his visit from the spirit Fate, her deformed son Twist, and the devil himself, Mephistopheles. Fate tells Beethoven that it will be his last night on earth, and her mischievous son taunts Beethoven with the fact. But then Mephistopheles offers Beethoven a deal: he can either accept his death and have his name and music live on, or, he can escape his death, but Beethoven’s work would then be lost and forgotten. While contemplating his decision, Fate takes Beethoven on a journey into his past to show him his life and accomplishments. Though the story was amazing, with its unexpected twist and turns in events, what really stunned the crowd was their outstanding ability to rock out to classical music. There is only one word that can sum up the performance of TSO: amazing! Every member of TSO brought their “A” game to the stage and they
didn’t stop there. Lead violinist Roddy Chong literally leaped and danced across the stage while performing “Mozart/ Figaro.” With a close eye you could see Vitalij Kuprij and Jane Mangini’s fingers dance across the keyboards as they played with such dedication and enthusiasm. Drummer Jeff Plate brought the entire orchestra together and lit up the stage with his outstanding passion and talent. But one cannot forget the excellence of the guitarists, Al Pitrelli, Chris Caffery and Johnny Lee Middleton. There were also the stunning performances by the vocalists, such as Jay Pierce (Twist), John Brink (Young Beethoven), Jeff Scott Soto and Andrew Ross. One can’t forget the dazzling, dare I say, sexy performance of vocalists/dancers Danielle Landherr, Valentina Porter, Chloe Lowery and April Berry. Rob Evan gave it his all as he preformed and sung the part of the older and dying Ludwig van Beethoven. Evan was able to portray a multitude of emo-
Courtesy of Facebook.com/TSO
tions such as sorrow, pride, love and frustration in this one performance that he was able to make you truly think about the complexity of Beethoven’s decisions. By far, Trans-Siberian Orchestra is one of the best combinations of talent imaginable. In short, the TSO performance was perfect! From the laser lighting that reached out into the audience and moved with the music, right to the musical talent and passion preformed by the orchestra, and left the
audience cheering for more… and they got more! For their closing act, TSO preformed “Believe” (Tim Hockenberry, vocals) and “Toccata - Carpimus Noctum” from their newly released CD, “Night Castle.” TSO showed great love for their music and their audience, and the audience showed it back with no less than three standing ovations. All in all, TSO gave a five-star performance and hands down, I give them 10 out of 10.
Goodfellas By Adam D. Bram Rental Raves
Courtesy of Warner Bros.
T h i s week’s film is a classic. It’s been quoted and referenced many times in its 20-year existence. There was even a recurring sketch on the cartoon “Animaniacs” that was a direct parody of it, even though their target audiences were so different. Oddest of all, it’s based on a true story. This is 1990’s “Goodfellas.” As far back as Henry Hill (Ray Liotta) can remember, he always wanted to be a gangster. You took what you wanted, and always got respect. As a
teenager in the 1950s, he starts working for boss Paul Cicero (Paul Sorvino), and quickly gains footing within the family. Along with cool Jimmy Conway (Robert DeNiro) and loose cannon Tommy DeVito (Joe Pesci), he makes a very nice life for himself. However, as the decades wear on, he dips his fingers in a few too many pies. This, coupled with Tommy growing hotter and Jimmy growing colder, can only spell doom. This is a deeply disturbing film. This is also a fantastically written, directed, shot and acted film. It deserves most of the accolades it receives. The trouble I have is not with the film itself as much as with a large part of its fanbase.
WARNER BROS. PICTURES :‘GOODFELLAS’ RAY LIOTTA ROBERT DENIRO JOE PESCI k MARTIN SCORSESE
Films like these (including this, “Scarface,” “The Godfather” et. al.) are meant to be cautionary tales. They show how these people lose their moral ground and become monsters, and how sooner or later it catches up with them. However, too many people see these films and aspire to it, just as Henry Hill did. So many people dying, friends turned to enemies in the blink of an eye. No amount of money or sex or drugs is worth that. I recommend this film for anyone who actually understands this. Just don’t watch it at night. Also starring Lorraine Bracco and Mike Starr.
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Arts & Entertainment
April 6, 2010
Page 25
Getting freaky with some flyers By Robert Lefebvre Rob’s Game Shelf
Anchor Lifestyles Editor Adam Bram came up to me one day and recommended a game to me called “Freaky Flyers.” Upon looking at the cover, I immediately realized that this was one of those bizarre games that are not aiming for prizes. Adam described it as “the bastard child of ‘Mario Kart’ and ‘Wacky Races.’” I’ve played plenty of games that are so bizarre that they are actually good, so I decided to give this one a try. “Freaky Flyers” was developed by Midway Games and released in August of 2003 for the Xbox, PS2 and the Nintendo GameCube. “Freaky Flyers” is a plane racing game where a bunch of cartoonish characters take part in a competition across the world to become the Freaky Flyers Racing Champion. In the game you have the opportunity to play each of the characters in their separate storylines as they take part in the competition. Each of them has their own reason for joining the race, but they soon come across Dr. Gutentag, who is using the race to perform experiments on the pilots. He is also in cahoots with Pilot X, an alien who wants to prove he is the best racer in the universe. The gameplay follows a system similar to that of “Mario Kart.” You race across bizarre landscapes in a small biplane. There are all kinds of obstacles to overcome as well as the other racers to contend with. There are also a number of tasks to complete in each course. You have an unlimited chain gun you can use to fire at other racers to bring them down. You also collect random power-ups such as rocket launchers, speed boosters and shields. This game was very interesting, as it brought out some very interesting concepts, but
something went wrong in the execution of them. So I’m going to do something a little different with this review. I’m going to explain the gaming concepts with two hypothetical game designers named Peter and Putz. “Hey,” says Peter, “let’s make a racing game about planes.” “Okay,” says Putz, “but let’s rip off the concept of Mario Kart and use the same formula. While we’re at it, let’s change the normal control scheme for vehicle operation to something a little more complicated.” “Hey again,” says Peter, “let’s make our characters be from different parts of the world. Like one comes from England, another from Germany, and another from India, and so forth. And just to spice it up, let’s make them a little cartoonish and humorous.” “All righty,” says Putz, “but let’s make those characters and locations incredibly stereotypical. Instead of Germany, we’ll call it Bombsburg, instead of Chicago, we’ll call it Crime City. “Then we’ll make the characters just as stereotypical. For instance, the English chick is a well-mannered intellectual who refuses to get mad, but she’ll have a split personality that wants nothing but death and destruction. And the German chick pilot will have gigantic boobs and be the result of horrible experiments conducted in the World War II era. But it’ll be okay, because we’ll just make the American character a total douche.” “Here’s an idea,” says Peter, “Let’s make a vast amount of characters and locations so that way players will have all kinds of variety and replay value. And while we’re at it, let’s add a Dogfight mode so players can battle each other rather than just race.” “Okey-dokey,” says Putz, “but let’s make over three quarters of the content have to be unlocked in the one-player modes. Therefore, when all of
the locations and characters are unlocked, the player will become that guy. That guy who knows all of the moves, all of the shortcuts and how to combat all of the obstacles, therefore is able to beat his friends in the multiplayer with ease.” So they shake hands and write down their idea. Then Putz goes off to chase butterflies in a thorn field and Peter begins to eat his own shoes. The presence of Putz is also felt when rubber-banding starts showing up in the game. I could be in first place about to complete the last lap of the race when someone behind me gets the speed-booster power-up and blows past me and takes the win. “Okay,” I thought, “I suppose when you have random power-ups that can happen.” But in the next race I was in first and about to win when the racer blew me away with the heatseeking missile and took the win. And then it happened again and again and again, not just at
the finish line but always as I just gained the advantage. I was beginning to suspect that the power-ups were random only for me and not the computer. This game clearly wasn’t going for any prizes, as you can see right on the cover of the box as there’s a girl with giant breasts ready to jump out and poke you in the eyes. No, wait, that term’s not appropriate. It’s more like a pair of giant breasts ready to jump out and poke you in the eyes with a girl attached. (OK, when I’m criticizing the box art, I’m getting nitpicky.) But when I was introduced to “Freaky Flyers” I thought it would be so obscure that it would actually be good, like “Saints Row” and “NHL Rock the Rink.” But unfortunately that wasn’t the case, as Putz kept rearing his ugly head to mess up everything potentially good with this game. But I would be lying if I said I hated this game. The gameplay was pretty decent, but it’s been done before and much better.
The characters and stories were incredibly stereotypical and generically humorous, but there were some scenes that were actually pretty funny. Usually I’m able to classify a game as good or bad, but I had a hard time with this game. For everything it does well, it does something bad in return. So I’m going to have to give “Freaky Flyers” one of my rare “mehs.” It’s not bad, but it’s not good, either. The gaming world needs more Peters and less Putzes. The Peters are able to come up with interesting and stable gaming concepts that would probably appeal to many gamers. But the Putzes come along and change them to become safe and marketable in the guise of creativity, or just make them insulting. For example, if I were a Peter and came up with a game idea about aliens invading RIC, Putz would say it needs a princess to be saved, and then I would eat my own shoes.
Courtesy of Midway Games
Sports
April 6, 2010
Page 26
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The curling experience By Casey Gaul Managing Editor
According to the World Curling Federation’s Web site, curling, or an early form of it, may have been played as early as the 16th century in its birthplace of Scotland. Vague references appeared in a notary’s protocol book in 1540, and even in art in the mid 1500s. Curling actually made its first appearance in the Olympics in 1924 as a demonstration sport. It came back again in this capacity in 1932, 1992 and 1994. It wasn’t until the 1998 Winter Olympics that it was accepted as an actual Olympic sport. Since then, Curling has been a major event at the Winter Olympics. How is it played? A curling match, which generally consists of ten rounds (called ends), is a competition between two teams of four people each. The team takes turns “sliding,” or delivering, 42-pound smooth, granite stones down a 130-foot field of pebbled ice towards a giant bull’s eye called the house. Each team delivers a total of eight
Anchor Photo/David Okon
stones an end, trying to out maneuver each other towards the goal of having the most stones nearest the center circle, or “the button,” of the house. As each stone is delivered, teammates run alongside and sweep the ice in front of the stone. This sweeping melts the ice in the stone’s path just enough to decrease the friction between the stone and ice and allow the stone to travel further faster. Sweeping may also be used to alter the path of the stone in this way. The experience Watching the Canadian Olympic Curling team, who won gold in this year’s Winter
Olympics, it’s easy to underestimate the effort that actually goes into playing the sport. It’s easy to forget how heavy a 42-pound piece of granite is and how far away 120 feet of pebbled ice is. Getting down on the ice for the first time at URI’s Boss Ice Arena, stone in one hand and broom in the other, is an immediate eye opener. You’ve got one foot placed in the hack at an odd angle, the other foot on a piece of slippery Teflon, your ass is in the air and you’re trying to keep your back straight in what feels like one of the most unnatural positions of your life. From this position you must gather enough force to propel yourself the 33 feet to the hogline, trying like hell to
Anchor Photo/Casey Gaul
maintain your form and some semblance of direction and aim, from where you must release the stone with enough force for it to continue at least an additional 72 feet to the guard zone. All of a sudden that stone seems so much heavier than you thought it was. Our party was lucky if we got the stone past the hogline the first couple throws. Where delivering the stone was a bedlam of concentration and precise physical exertion, sweeping was just exhausting. Scampering down the ice along side a stone that is easily traveling at six feet per second, while trying to sweep in front of it without accidentally touching it, or “burning,” will leave even
a somewhat-in-shape individual huffing and puffing after a few ends. “I never would have thought that curling would be as physically demanding as it was,” said Anchor Sports Editor Andrew Augustus. Running on the ice is precarious enough an activity, and when your skip calls for brooms up an enthusiastic sweeper might overdo it and end up in the air only to land squarely ass on ice. More than a few newcomers to the sport found themselves sprawled bum down on the ice, thankfully with no more bruised than their tailbones and their pride. All that aside, the enjoyment you get from playing the sport may easily surprise you. “I didn’t expect to like curling as much as I did but I had a lot of fun. I was even supposed to go play flag football that night but decided to skip so I could do the curling free play after the lessons,” said Augustus. Ocean State Curling Club
Anchor Photo/Casey Gaul
Delivering a 42-pound stone over 120 feet of ice is harder than it looks.
“The Ocean State Curling Club was formed in April 2009 with the intention of bringing curling to Rhode Island,” according to their Web site. They offer seasonal memberships as well as “pay as you curl” sessions for $30 a week. In the spirit of the sport, this curling club is open, inviting and supportive of both the seasoned curler and the complete novice.
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April 6, 2010
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Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s baseball lose close game to Clark By Nate Chorney Anchor Contributor
On Friday, April 2 the Rhode Island College Anchormen faced off against the Clark University Cougars at Anchorman Field. In the top of the first inning, Clark sprang ahead with a 3-run homerun by Mitchell Delorenzo. In the bottom of the first, the Anchormen bounced right back with three runs of their own, thanks in part to two errors by Clark that allowed Kevin Carey to score an unearned run and the base runners to advance, which set up an RBI single. The third run came off a sacrifice fly by Joseph Correia. The top of the second proved to be a big inning for the Clark Cougars, as they scored four runs on three hits. One run was scored on a wild pitch by Mike Dewald, who also walked Peter Lewis, who would go on to score. When the Anchormen returned
to the plate in the bottom of the third with the bases loaded, they only managed to score one run on a walk, when Michael Nadiger grounded out to end the inning. The Cougars failed to score in the top of the fourth, which left the score at 7-4 with the Anchormen trailing but with a chance to even up the score. Three doubles hit by Kevin Carey, Jared Rossi and Gary Levesque produced three runs and a tied score at the end of the fourth. Clark came back swinging with a leadoff single by Scott Hollingsworth, which setup a 2-run homerun by Nicholas Kellog to push the Cougars back ahead, 9-7. The Cougars stopped the Anchormen from scoring in the following innings and added four more runs on four hits in the top of the seventh, which produced a commanding 13-7 lead. The Anchormen were held scoreless in the bottom of the seventh, and the Clark Cougars
did not score in the top of the eighth. In the bottom of the eighth, the Anchormen tried to mount a comeback when Kevin Carey scored on a groundout to the shortstop by Jared Rossi. Gary Levesque followed up with a double down the right field line to keep the momentum going for the Anchormen, but that was stopped suddenly when Tim Schabowski lined out to left field. The score at the end of the eighth inning was 13-8, and would be the final score for the game. Michael Lamothe (1-0) picked up the win for the Clark Cougars and Kyle Dumont (0-1) was credited with the loss for RIC. This week will challenge the Anchormen, who have four games at home. Wed., April 7, RIC squares up against Salve Regina at 3:30 p.m. Thursday at 3:30, RIC welcomes Brandies to the campus. The week wraps up on Sat., April 10 with a double header against Plymouth State starting at noon.
Courtesy of RIC Athletics
Junior Gary Levesque nailing a double down the right field line against Clark.
Anchor Photo/David Noll
Junior Suany Almonte in a recent match.
Lacrosse suffers
first Little East loss By Andrew Augustus Sports Editor
The last time the womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lacrosse team took the field, they ran all over Sage College, defeating them 20-2. The next week was full of rain, which made practicing and playing games impossible. One week after the win, the team traveled to Western Conn. to make it two wins in a row. When the final whistle blew, the Colonials got the better of the Anchorwomen, winning 17-6. RIC started off quickly by scoring the first two goals of the game. Sophomore Nicky Drolet got the Anchorwomen started with a goal when she stole the ball and ripped a shot past the Western goalie within the first two minutes of the game. Three minutes later, junior captain Suny Almonte took a shot that bounced past the goalie, giving RIC the early 2-0 lead. Western immediately responded with a goal of their own, when Kara Kruczkiewicz beat freshman goalie Kerri Montgomery, putting the Colonials within one. Over the next 12 minutes, the Colonials went on a 12-0 run with Jes-
sica Majeski scoring three of the goals to give Western a commanding 12-2 lead. The scoring streak ended when Sophomore Molly Voyer scored her 13th goal of the season making it a 12-3 lead for the Colonials. As the quarter came to a close, the teams traded goals and the half ended with a score of 13-4, Western Conn. on top. The second half started off with Western forward Jess Tarascio scoring a goal one minute in, giving the Colonials a 14-4 lead. The Colonials then added three more goals over the next 10 minutes to extend their lead to 17-4 with just over 10 minutes remaining. At this point in the game it would be easy for a team to give up. However, the Anchormen did not give up and kept attacking the net. In the final 10 minutes of the game, freshman Haley Lattinville scored two goals to make the final score 17-6 Colonials. The next two games for the Anchorwomen will be held at home; the first being on April 5 at 4 p.m. against Roger Williams; the following on the April 10 at noon against Little East-foe Keene State.
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April 6, 2010
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Anchor Photo/Andrew Augustus
Senior outfielder Amy Jackman playing in a recent game against Bates College.
Anchorwomen split double header By Steven Barthelemy Anchor Staff Writer
Rhode Island Collegeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s softball team could almost smell a 10-game winning streak. Coming off a nine-game winning streak that dated all the way back to March 19, the Anchorwomen started Saturday feeling very good about themselves as they made their way up to Southern Maine. It seemed very likely that RIC, which at the time was 11-3, was easily going to take both games against the 3-11 Huskies at the University of Southern Maine. Both of these games were the first Little East Conference games of the season for the Anchorwomen, and were thus quite important. Somehow though, the Huskies managed to surprise the Anchorwomen and split the day. In game one, the first three
innings proved to be very smooth from both sides, as both teams managed to garner up just one hit, but no runs and no errors. In the fourth inning, however, was when things really started to heat up. The top of the fourth began with two Anchorwomen on first and second after two walks. A wild pitch advanced the runner on second to third and with runners at the corners, Chelsi Panarelli bunted her way on base and received the first RBI of the game as the runner on third scored. RIC went on to take two runs in the top of the fourth. The second half of the fourth was the turning point in this game, however, as Southern Maine managed to gain a total of five runs on four hits. Errors always seem to come back and bite you, and the bottom half of the inning proved it. After a lead-off double, Anchorwoman
Donielle Mattoon made a throwing error that allowed for runners at the corners with nobody out. This led to a basesloaded situation which made way to a five-run inning for the Huskies. After that, the Anchorwomen were held to just one more run and three more hits. Huskies pitcher Sarah Deroche threw a complete game for the win and had three earned runs and just five hits allowed, as well as five walks and four strikeouts. Anchorwoman Amanda Berrard settled for the loss, bringing her to a 5-2 record. She pitched five innings and allowed three earned and three unearned runs on seven hits and allowed no walks. The second game went a lot more towards the direction RIC has been used to over the past month. Errors are a big no-no, but fortunately they counted
for RIC this time rather than against them. In just the first inning of the gam, the Huskies managed to make two errors that made way for RIC to open up the game with an easy unearned run. In the third inning, the Anchorwomen scored two more runs on two hits, and the following inning they did the exact same. After the top of the fourth, RICâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s offense slowed down a bit and up until the bottom of the sixth, there really had not been any offense from Southern Maine at all. In the bottom of the sixth inning Southern Maine managed to get three runs on four hits, but that was where it remained for them. Anchorwoman Donielle Mattoon, who committed a costly error in a costly inning the last game, earned two big RBIs in the fourth and allowed RIC to take the game, 5-3. Jenna
Deveines went five and a third innings pitched and allowed three runs on six hits, earning her fifth win, which brought her personal record to an outstanding 5-0. Kyla Puccini pitched less than an inning of relief and Amanda Berard picked up her third save of the season. The Anchorwomen came home with a still-excellent 12-4 record, a Little East Conference record of 1-1 and what hopefully will be the start of another long streak. This week, they stay home to face Bridgewater State College on Tuesday, and hit the road Thursday to face Roger Williams University, before hosting their third Little East Conference match of the season on Sat., April 10 versus Keene State College.