VOICE the
college
THINK YOU CAN FINISH YOUR ASSOCIATE’S IN TWO YEARS? NOT AT THE RATE YOU’RE GOING!
ESTABLISHED 1969
A student press serving M ercer County Community College and its neighboring areas
NJSTARS facing changes
February 16, 2009 Volume 40, Issue 5
By Caroline Fling The College Voice
STUDENT LIFE
LGBTF CLUB GROWS Page 2 SMOKING TO BE BANNED ?
Page 2 RENOVATION UPDATE Page 3 New parking permits policy Page 2 success for dream student Page 3
Late Night Series packs the house! Page 4
PHOTO | KENDRA YU
Attending the inauguration By David Hoyt The College Voice
ARTS
The College VOICE
sent its
managing editor and a staff photographer to
Mrs. Warren’s Profession at McCarter Page 5
DC
Washington,
to cover the presidential
inauguration.
The
facts
of
the day are well known, but what was it like to be there
Russian American Kids Circus at Page 4 Kelsey
PAGES 6-7
PRESIDENT OBAMA
SPECIAL REPORT
JUST 4 FUN
VIEWPOINTS
SPORTS
WOMEN’S HOOPS SEASON UPDATE Page 10 Men’s basketball finds momentum with new coach Page 10 PROFILE: Mercer’s sports announcer - Prof. Craig Coenen Page 10
Learn to start trusting leaders again Page 11
Comics, Ask The VOICE & Theme Crossword Page 12
as it happened?
The
following
is a narrative describing the experience.
* * * Waves of energy seemed to ripple towards me through the crowd of two and a half million people who gathered in front of
the Capitol Building in Washington DC as Barack Obama was sworn in as the forty-fourth President of the United States of America on January 20. We had driven through the night, arriving in DC at three in the morning. Despite the late hour, the excitement in the air was palpable. The sides of buildings were bathed in flashing red, white, and blue police lights as the streets were filled with more police cars than I had ever seen
in my life. An estimated ratio of one police officer to every nine citizens were present. In addition to members of the police, trios of national guardsmen decked in digital camouflage adorned every other street corner. Entire sections of the city were closed off to civilians by large road blocks making traffic congested and navigation virtually impossible. At 4:30am we arSee INAUGURATION page 6
Another tuition hike ahead By David Hoyt The College Voice
With America’s grim economic climate, every one of us is feeling the financial strain, including Mercer County Community College. As explained by Jacob Eapen, Mercer’s Chief Business Officer, and college president, Dr. Patricia Donohue, Mercer plans on raising tuition starting with the 2009 summer sessions The price per credit increase is seven dollars for county residents (more for those from out of county). Seven dollars may seem small, but for students carrying a full course load this would add up to at least $168 more. The additional cost per year for an out of state student is far more, adding up to be the equivalent of taking another three credit course. Tuition increases are happening everywhere. “All community
colleges have been looking at increasing tuition” said Jacob Eapen to the Student Governance Council on Feb. 4. Compared to the 19 other community colleges in New Jersey, Mercer ranks as the 13 most expensive. In addition to raising tuition, Mercer is cutting costs by cutting jobs. Last year the college eliminated seven jobs from the college budget. Additionally, according to Eapen, this year Mercer has a freeze on hiring and will attempt to cut an additional six positions. “Wherever we can save a buck, we do it” says Jacob Eapen. According to President Donohue the bookstore, which rents space from the college, yields Mercer $400,000 per year. Many students note that it is cheaper to buy their textbooks online –even taking into account
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the costs of shipping- than in the Mercer bookstore, which marks up prices. President Donohue emphasizes, however, that book prices only go up when publishers increase prices, something over which the college has no control. Much of the funding issues for Mercer are related to State and County budget issues. According to President Donohue the state of New Jersey asked most agenSee TUITION page 3
NJSTARS, the program which provides free tuition to community college to New Jersey students who are in the top 20 percent of their high school class, will soon be revamped. Current students and students who may soon qualify as NJSTARS students have begun to sweat, not knowing whether their academic achievement will be rewarded as promised. Previously, high school students graduating in the top 20 percent of their graduating class were eligible for the full tuition grants provided by the NJSTARS program. According to the new changes posted by NJSTARS, the bar has been raised to include only those students in the top 15% of their graduating classes. One up side is, students will be able to take 12-18 credits per semester instead of 12-15 credits they are now allowed. The change may enable students to accelerate their graduation. The changes are occurring in difficult economic times for New Jersey and the nation. The state needed to reduce funding “because the state has no money. [Government officials] didn’t consider how many students would take advantage of it,” said Maurice Thomas, Mercer’s Assistant Director of Financial Aid. As a result of the cuts, the number of NJSTARS II program’s potential scholars is projected to be reduced by around 25 percent. “Something had to be cut,” Thomas adds, “The STARS program funds five years of education… so it adds up.” Previously, if an NJSTARS student graduated from their community college and had been accepted to a state college or university, their NJSTARS scholarship for free tuition would follow them under a program known as NJSTARS II. The NJSTARS II program is also facing changes. First, the free tuition is gone. According
to NJSTARS information, “NJ STARS II provides a $6,000 per year scholarship for students earning their associate degree with a 3.25 to 3.49 grade point average.” In addition, “NJ STARS II provides a $7,000 per year scholarship for students earning their associate degree with a 3.5 or better grade point average.” All of this, of course, is in addition to receiving an associate’s degree from your community college and being accepted to a state college or university. Family income also cannot be more than $250,000 a year in order for a student to be eligible. So instead of the scholarship being a strictly academic award, it is now partially a needbased award. On December 15 of 2008, the New Jersey state senate voted on proposed amendments to the scholarship program. According to NJSTARS information, “Current NJ STARS sophomores are required to attain a 3.0 cumulative grade point average or better upon graduation from a community college in Spring 2009 to qualify for NJ STARS II in Fall 2009.” The scholarship is not full tuition, though. NJSTARS freshman are responsible to meet the 3.25 GPA requirements to be eligible for NJSTARS II when they graduate. Two months after the changes were voted on, Mercer’s administration held an informational meeting for NJSTARS students and their parents. Why the wait? “It had to go back to HESA to revise and make changes. It was later made official in January,” Maurice Thomas said. “This isn’t the first attempt by the state to make changes,” says Mercer English Professor Diane Rizzo, who serves as Mercer’s NJSTARS faculty advisor. But is seems these changes are likely to stick. Many NJSTARS students are worried about not having a high enough GPA to receive NJSTARS II upon graduation and are scrambling to sign up for an extra class or two in the ten week sessions.
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STUDENT LIFE
Campus smoking ban? Huts out, cars in 2 - 16 - 09
By David Hoyt The College Voice
Mercer, a smoke free campus? That reality may not be too far into our future. Jose Fernandez, Executive Director for Compliance and Human Resources, spoke about proposed revisions to Mercer’s smoking policies at the College Governance Council on February 4, 2009, including the possibility of a complete ban on smoking on campus for all students, faculty, and guests. Mercer’s current smoking rules were last revised in May of 2006 and as they enter their third year they are being deemed a failure. Fernandez, citing the “low compliance” with the current policies says that Mercer has received many complaints about cigarette butt litter and about students smoking outside of the designated smoking huts. “People can always make the excuse, ‘I’m on my way to the
hut,” says Fernandez about people lighting up in areas where smoking is prohibited. With the proposed change in policy the administration would appear to be leaving no grey area. This policy “would apply to faculty, staff, everyone on campus,” says Fernandez but “automobiles will not be prohibited” because they are defined as private property. An increasing fine system is currently the penalty planned for those who would violate the rules. While these policies may seem unnecessarily harsh, the administration notes that Mercer would not be the first community college in New Jersey to implement a smoking ban. According to Fernandez, “three other New Jersey community colleges have implemented this policy,” including Bergen, Ocean County, and Raritan Valley. Much of the new policy still remains in development
and no fixed implementation date has been announced. Though there has been some suggestion that the new policy might be voted on by the board of trustees as early as their February 19 meeting. Several broader questions are raised by the proposed policy revision. Will students and faculty have a harder time arriving to class on time if they have to head to their cars to smoke? Will a litter issue be created in the parking lots as a by-product of the policy? Will visitors to campus be held accountable, even those paying to use the Conference Center? These and many more questions have not yet been addressed. Dean of Students, Dr. Diane Campbell, discussed the proposed policy change at the February 5 SGA meeting, saying students with concerns could certainly voice them. It was suggested that students call or email the administrators if they had input they wished to share.
PHOTO | MIKE KAY
Smoking huts, which were built in the last two years, are not seen to be working as planned. A smoking ban may soon occur.
LGBTF club offers students support on campus By Susana Sanchez The College Voice
Although the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgendered, and Friends (LGBTF) club has existed on campus for the past few years, last year it experienced significant changes. The club was previously known as the Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) but when Alex DeFazio, the new faculty adviser, came on board the GSA was renamed LGBTF. DeFazio says the name change is part of an effort to reformulate the club. He says that the word “gay” in GSA “did not include everyone who doesn’t identify as heterosexual, including lesbian women and transgendered men and women.” In addition to a name change, the central goal of the club changed as well. The main purpose of the LGBTF is no longer to forge relationships with the heterosexual community, but to foster solidarity and support among gay, lesbian, transgendered, and bisexual students and friends. The LGBTF club aims to provide support to students
at Mercer. To this extent DeFazio says that the club wants students to feel acceptance by a community that seeks to empower its members. Victor Ruiz, a dance major and active member for three years, describes the LGBTF club as “a place I can call another home. Speaking as
an open homosexual at Mercer, being around other people I can relate with can be a huge relief when the environment becomes a bit stressful or uneasy to handle.” For many students the monthly meetings alone provide enough support, but De-
Fazio says that the club is planning to go one step further by offering office hours. According to DeFazio, at least two students have contacted him looking for support. However these students feel unable to attend the regular meetings because they have yet to tell their families
and friends about their sexual orientation. Even though the club has received support from most faculty, staff and students, some resistance on campus exists towards LGBTF members. According to Ruiz’s experience “the campus environment has grown more tolerable and more comfortable of LGBTF students, although at times there are those who may throw out some derogatory terms just for a giggle.” The club has also met with some stronger opposition. For instance, DeFazio says that last year the LGBTF club had posters around campus announcing a pride prom that said, “Dress in drag,” to which some people complained to student activities. DeFazio states, “the gestures of support far outweighed those of protest. Mercer isn’t perfect, but as long as our campus recognizes there is work to be done, the LGBTF will continue to make strides.” The LGBTF welcomes all Mercer students on the first and third Tuesday of every month in CM123 at 12:00pm.
By Jessicarose Fattibene Reporter Due to a problem with outsiders using the student parking lots, as of the spring 2009 Mercer parking permits are a requirement for all current students. Despite ongoing campus rumors, the permits will not allow access to the faculty parking lots; but students will have designated permit only parking closer to campus buildings. The permit, a square decal about the size of your palm, is free of charge. The permit must be placed visibly in the back window of students’ cars, much like decals that faculty and staff have been using.
Bryon Marshall, head of security for MCCC, said, “[The parking permits] are a piece of the overall security fabric,” explaining that the permits are just a way to ensure that the cars parked on campus belong here. Marshall said there will be “incentive compliance warnings” for students who neglect to get their permit. “Maybe the first ticket will be redeemable for a permit,” Marshall replied when asked if there would be a fine for not complying. Marshall also says that the school is not trying to make money off of fines; the permits are to differentiate students
from faculty and visitors and to procure spots for students. They will also make it easier for campus security to find a student if by chance they left their lights on or if there is a fender bender. An accident in a student parking lot occurred two weeks into the parking permit system. Marshall said “We were able to utilize the sticker to inform the owner.” People that don’t attend the school and continue to use its parking lots will be given a summons. Many students are unsettled by the new policy. “Its bullshit,” said Liz Troy, a third year psychology student. “We already have IDs. We’re obvi-
ously students.” When informed that the purpose of the permits is to secure student parking spots, some students experienced a change of heart. “Sometimes you get a good spot sometimes you don’t; it’s not a big deal,” said Troy. To apply for a permit you will need to bring a valid driver’s license, vehicle registration, current insurance certificate and a copy of your current transcript or class assignment/ membership information to the security office, temporarily located on the second floor of the student center.
PHOTO | MIKE KAY
Alex DeFazio (center), adjunct Theater and English professor is faculty advisor for LGBTF club.
Students now need parking permits for campus
PHOTO | SANDRA ISAAC
Parking permits can be obtained on the second floor of the SC building.
A young female student walks the hallways on the second floor of the student center, looking lost. “Excuse me, do you know where the library is?” Astonishingly, the first four people she asks cannot answer the question. “You know something? I’m really not sure,” one of them answers. Finally someone directs her to the temporary trailers, adjacent to the administration building. “Oh, thanks,” she says, but her face doesn’t brighten. As a new semester at Mercer begins, the usual themes of excitement and possibility are accompanied by another one: confusion. The renovations in the student center continue to progress toward completion. However, they also continue to disrupt life on campus for students and staff. Many of the services and facilities that were moved at the start of the renovation, which began before the Fall 2008 semester, continue to be displaced as the spring semester begins. The Bursar’s Office, Learning Center, Office of Special Services, Open Computer Lab, and many other facilities have all been temporarily moved due to the construction. The most notable inconvenience for students is the almost complete loss of the library. What was once a destination for students needing to study, research a paper, search the internet, or read a copy of their textbook has now become “temporary trailers adjacent to the administration building, across from the business building” as it says in the renovation
update portion of the college’s web site. “The loss of space, due to the temporary move to the trailers, is evident from the outside and as soon as you set foot inside,” says Pamela A. Price, the college’s Director of Library Services. Indeed, the difference between the old library and the temporary one is evident at first glance, but according to Price, the biggest effect of the renovations on the library is the loss of study room. “If you come in around lunch time or in the middle of the day it’s almost impossible to get access to a research computer because it’s so crowded,” Price says. Despite this, students seem to have adapted well to the situation. “Students have been very understanding. They recognize that being here and dealing with our current situation is only a temporary inconvenience so that we can have a much nicer facility,” Price says. Some students have been less understanding than others. “I really liked the library before, but now it’s so cramped and crowded, so I really never go there anymore,” says John Botros, a first year Business Administration major. As for students’ opinions on the overall renovation process, reactions seem to be mixed. “It hasn’t really affected me that much,” says Ryan Carsia, a first year student. Sean Behnke, who was attending Mercer before the renovations began, has a more negative view of the ongoing process, and feels the college could put the money to better use. “All they’re doing is making a new entrance. Instead they should have built walkways to the buildings that
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RENOVATION UPDATE By Peter Cosma Reporter
the college
Renovations to create a new Student Center continue.
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aren’t connected,” Behnke says. “I would rather the money be used for things other than fancy entrances” Behnke adds. While the reaction to the construction on campus has been somewhat negative, there are several things students and staff can look forward to as the renovation process nears its completion. The first floor of the new library is expected to be complete by April. Meanwhile, the remainder of the ground floor and part of the second floor of the student center should be done by May. The second floor of the Student Center will be complete by September, but the closest of the scheduled completions is the campus bookstore. “We’re supposed to move in [to the new bookstore] on February 9,” says Rachel M. Reeb, the store’s general manager. “Moving is going to be hectic, but it will be nice once
we get in there. The main advantage is what they are going to do with the space once we are gone, though, creating a One-Stop Student Center,” says Reeb. The One-Stop Student Center will allow the offices for financial aid, security, information, and various other services to be housed in one location, providing what is expected to be a time-saving advantage for students. The completed renovations will also provide a significant improvement to the library. “The new library will have a dedicated classroom for information literacy instruction, which is basically introducing students to research beyond Google, and to resources such as the library suite of research databases.” says Pamela Price, Director of Library Services. Price is also looking forward to what will be done
with the collection of Dr. Tai Yao Liu. Dr. Liu, a retired professor of History at the University of Delaware, who settled in the West Windsor area after his retirement, donated a large collection of resources to the college. This collection will be highlighted in the new library. “Dr Liu donated his entire professional lifetime collection of resources, which have a large emphasis on history and liberal arts, to the library in 2002. We’re very pleased to finally set aside a dedicated space for this special collection here at the West Windsor Campus,” says Price. While the finished renovations to the Student Center and library may be cause for excitement, for now at least, that excitement is tempered by the constant sound of construction reminding everyone that they are in for more months of inconveniences.
Currently, there are 110 institutions nationwide, including both four-year and twoyear colleges, which provide higher education to students with intellectual disabilities. There are only two institutions in the state of New Jersey that provide such programs. The DREAM Program at Mercer County Community College is one of them. The DREAM Program at Mercer was launched in September of 2006 after the school received a grant to establish it. “It’s the next step in [young adults’ with intellectual disabilities] educational process, just like non-disabled students have a next step,” says Dr. Susan Onaitis, Counseling Specialist and DREAM Program Coordinator. The program’s main goal is to provide students with a college experience; an inclusive college experience. “We also focus on academic, vocational, independent living, and social skills,” Dr. Onaitis added. For more information about the DREAM Program visit the link on the www.mcccvoice. org homepage.
students tighten their belts again
DREAM Student moves to ENG 101 More tuition increases By Mabel Duran-Sanchez Reporter
Jaclyn Applebaum was one of the nine students to be enrolled in Mercer’s DREAM program, which offers young adults with intellectual disabilities, such as Down Syndrome, the chance to obtain a college education. (In the interests of full disclosure it must be noted that this reporter has served as Applebaum’s mentor in the DREAM program.) “I wasn’t sure if I was ready. I originally wanted to wait until I was 21,” Applebaum says about beginning her college education. But she has moved on from those worrisome days. S h e is currently in her third year at Mercer and she is majoring in Education. She has made the Dean’s List twice and is the first DREAM student to move on from Foundations level courses into English 101. “If I make [Dean’s List] a third time it’s not a big deal. It was more exciting to make it to English 101,” she says. Applebaum says that being in the DREAM program
PHOTO |MABEL DURAN-SANCHEZ
DREAM Program Student, Jackie Applebaum, studying, as usual. She has made the Dean’s list three times so far. “gives me the opportunity to take actual college courses. I make new friends, and I have more freedom than in high school. It gives me more independence.” When asked what most appeals to her about Mercer, Applebaum responds, “I’d say the best part is getting to meet my new professors and getting to learn new things.
By David Hoyt The College Voice
Cont. from pg. 1 month ago to give back part of the money that they have received from the state for funding. In addition Governor Corzine has been asking for many program cuts. Members of Mercer’s administration believe that the budget for financial year 2009-10 will be lower than the current financial year 2008-09. The real expectation is that the state budget will be cut by 10 percent. Enrollment is another issue that is affecting Mercer. “Funding we get from the state is based on enrollment” says Eapen. Administration officials expected a higher increase than what actually occurred this year. Therefore, while Mercer enrollment is increasing, other community colleges across the state have had a larger comparative
enrollment which affects the formula that the state uses to distribute funds. Thankfully the situation with the county budget is not nearly as bleak. The county has been very good to the college and has even given Mercer extra money. However the county budget for next year is staying the same and the cost of utilities will continue to grow, putting more economic strain on the college. While the tuition increases and other thrifty spending should help the budget, there is no guarantee that Mercer will not need to raise prices once more in the near future. “I think the next year will be a challenge” says Eapen.
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Arts
Late Night Series packed the house on Feb. 6 By Daisuke Katsumata Reporter
Night Series is gaining popularity. The most recent show on Friday, Feb. 6, opened to such a packed house that the seating arrangements were unable to accommodate everyone. LNS shows have an open mic sign up and are held in CMN 112, or the Studio Theater. Doors open at 9:30 pm and the show goes on officially until 12:00 am However, due to its popularity, the show has been known to extend later into the night from the number of performers. Friday’s show opened up with emcee Damian Gaeta reciting a poem titled, “I Hate Your Couch.” From there, many varied acts followed, including a duet with guitar and vocals; a three woman acapella group called the Tritones; a stand-up comedian; a guitar/vocal solo; and the featured performers of the night, the Mercer Jazz Trio & Company. The audience, was very receptive; many people came in part to support their friends who were performing. The Mercer Jazz Trio & Company were especially well received and two of its members, bass player Benjamin Russert and trumpet player Gustavo Tuchez said they were happy with the group’s
PHOTO | SANDRA ISAAC
performance, noting that it had been their first live performance together. The show followed up with other acts, such as numerous poetry readings, guitar/vocal players, and bands. These included the band, Jerry and the Beasters, as well as guitar/vocalist Kelly Carvin, a regular favorite among the crowd and winner of last year’s student talent show. A comedy troupe act also performed which was loaded with generous amounts of sexual innu-
endos and geek humor and was well received by the audience. There were some hitches. While the sequence of the acts had a very free flowing feel, the setup times in between often took long enough to disrupt that momentum. Emcee Gaeta did a great job of filling in the gaps with some jokes, but issues with microphones not picking up sound well or being poorly adjusted were on-going. Despite the hiccups, the crowd appeared
to enjoy the show. Many audience members said that the show had a great mix of acts, and that this was the best LNS show they had attended so far. One of the performers, Pablo Londono, noted,
walks on stage with a suitcase that suddenly breaks only to have a dog and a clown wardrobe fall out. The performer reacts with surprise and has the dog stand upright like a statue while he dresses it in the clown clothes. “The dog was my favorite part. The way they dressed him up was just so cute it made me smile,” said Janet Smith, mother of 5 year old Rachel in the audience. “My daughter seeing kids her age doing the things they do will give her inspiration.” Inspiration is a big part of what the Russian American Circus stands for. Founded in 1994 by former circus performer Alex Berenchtein and his wife Olga Partigul in Brooklyn, the Russian American Kids’ Circus was opened as a non-profit circus center for all children. They not only taught kids tricks and stunts, but stressed the values of selfassurance and teamwork. The most skilled eventually started performing on stage for what is now the
Russian American Kids’ Circus with today’s performers ranging from 6 to 18. These child performers further inspired some audience members by allowing several children to participate by performing stunts on stage with the cast. 7 year old Daniel Moran of Hamilton was one of the lucky kids to be chosen to go on stage. He along with about 10 other children were chosen, with the assistance of two of the performers, to step on to and roll on a large ball. “I had a lot of fun. It was really scary but fun,” said Daniel. When asked if he would do it again, Daniel responded with an emphatic “Yes.” The humor and audience interaction was great, but in order for a circus to be amazing, it needs amazing stunts and tricks. Thankfully, The Russian American Kids’ Circus had just that. One spectacular stunt was the spinning plate stunt. Two of the performers started off by spinning 12 plates
on thin wooden poles elevated about six feet into the air. The two performers then started jumping and flipping through the small spaces between the plates without knocking them down. Linda Hanley, attending with her two children, said, “The amount of focus alone made (the stunt) for me.” Some of the stunts included having a performer run, jump, and flip off a trampoline over five others, synchronized unicycle riders coming daringly close to the edge of the stage, and two children juggling pins back and forth, while another weaved in and out. While not all of the stunts were perfect, the way mistakes were handled when made was remarkable. The way the young children performers quickly fixed a mistake such as a dropped pin or hoop, showed great focus and determination to keep going on. The performers’ resilience was so impressive that if you were to blink you may miss the mistake all
PHOTO | SANDRA ISAAC
“this is the most packed it’s ever been.” The recordings of the Feb. 6 performance, as well as additional information can be found on the Late Night Series’ Facebook group page un-
der the name, “Late Night Series at MCCC.” Next LNS is Feb. 20 and will have a Mardi Gras theme. Come dressed for the occassion and get in free!
Kids Circus is fun for all ages at Kelsey Theatre By Zachary Hendrick Reporter
Remarkable tricks, incredible stunts, and humorous acts are all present in the Russian American Circus. But the remarkable thing is that all these aspects are performed by children. While it may not have been perfect, the performance at Kelsey Theatre was fun and inspiring all the way through. While the Russian American Circus may not be as grandiose as other larger circuses, it finds a way to constantly amuse the audience. The moment you walk in to take your seat you are greeted with engaging entertainment. From the prankster clown that welcomes you when you enter the theatre to the constant comical sound effects and stunts, the children performers keep the crowd laughing all the way through. One particularly memorable comical moment is when a performer
PHOTO | MAIKE SCHULZ - USED WITH PERMISSION
together. The hard work and hours of practice the children had put in were evident throughout. The Russian American Kids’ Circus is an entertaining and fun ride for all ages. Great stunts and tricks blended with humorous moments
and audience interaction makes it a complete circus experience. But what puts the Russian American Kids’ Circus ahead of others like it, is the fact that it is performed by children who inspire the audience with their strong sense of hard work and resilience.
Entertainment
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Mrs. Warren’s Profession a success at McCarter By Matt Williams Reporter
1893: a year of family turmoil, a year of redemption and unforgiveness, a year in which a mother and daughter were torn apart by the oldest profession known to humankind: prostitution. This is the setting of George Bernard Shaw’s epic Mrs. Warren’s Profession which was performed at Princeton’s McCarter Theatre from January 9 through February 15. The cast gave a tremendous performance. Entering the interior of the theatre itself, the atmosphere was striking. The scenery for the first act was already set up and seemed almost surreal due to the excellent lighting. The play, directed by Emily Mann, opens with Vivie Warren (played by Madeleine Hutchins), a stark yet upbeat woman in her early twenties. Her mother, Kitty Warren (Suzanne Bertish), is introduced shortly thereafter. Kitty is a stout and elegant woman, middle-aged and to the point. Her dynamic personality challenges the viewer’s perceptions by making her a flawed yet sympathetic character. Vivie and her mother appear to have an off-kilter but decent relationship throughout act one. It is not until the second act, however, that Vivie discovers her mother’s true identity; an identity hidden behind fancy clothes, calculated lies, and an old friend: Sir George Crofts (Robin Chadwick). Vivie’s life takes a turn for the worst when in a fit of anger and jealousy, Mr. Crofts reveals to her that her one true
GREEN TIP
RECYCLE The average American tosses away 21 bags of trash every month, and approximately 75% of what ends up in a landfill could have actually been recycled.
(National Recycling Coalition) Green tips brought you by Mercer’s Sustainability Task Force
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Celebrity Scoop PHELPS AND MARYJANE Like many young people, Michael Phelps tried smoking pot. A picture taken of him at a house party at the University of South Carolina shows Phelps hitting a bong. He apologized for the incident saying his judgment was skewed.
FERGIE TIES THE KNOT PHOTO | MCCARTER THEATRE
From left: Suzanne Bertish, Robin Chadwick, Michael Izquierdo and Madeleine Hutchins in the McCarter Theatre Center production of Mrs. Warren’s Profession by George Bernard Shaw. love, Frank Gardiner (Michael dience member. Another viewer Izquierdo), is directly related summed up the performance’s to her. This knowledge causes key theme saying, “You can’t Vivie to become emotionally judge people until you have distraught and eventually leads walked in their shoes…you just to her abandonment of her can’t do it.” mother. Few audience mem Suspense built bers interviewed had any negathroughout the play, but it came tive feelings about the producto an abrupt yet predictive end tion. No one seemed at all when, in the last scene, Vivie perturbed by Vivie Warren puffdismisses her hysterical mother ing away on a real cigar inside from her office. The fact that the theatre, despite the repeatVivie and Frank are so closely ed warnings at the beginning of related by blood tears the two the play. apart, despite Frank’s repeated Mrs. Warren’s Profesattempts to persuade Vivie that sion is a brilliant and superb the relationship can work. reminder of human triumph, PHOTO | MCCARTER THEATRE At the end of the show, forgiveness, and sorrow. Each Edward Hibbert the crowd gave the performers actor in the performance did an (Mr. Praed) and an outstanding and thunderous outstanding job of bringing out Suzanne Bertish applause that shook the ground the true human emotions and (Mrs. Warren) right under one’s feet. colors of their character. The in Mrs. Warren’s “Very well done; in- performance was quite simply, Profession. triguing and alive,” said one au- phenomenal.
Valentine’s spending
Pop singer Fergie, 33, tied the knot at the Church Estates Vineyards on the Feb. 7, 2009 with boyfriend Josh Duhamel. Fergie’s engagement ring was a 4-carat diamond with a diamond wedding band to match.
50 WINS LAWSUIT In a recent court ruling, rapper 50 Cent won the case against ex-wife Shaniqua Tompkins, mother the of his two children. Tompkins will not receive a penny of his money. She will however continue to collect child support.
BACKSTREET SURVIVOR
averages more than
$13 million nationwide, but thrifty lovers have options
PHOTO | OLIVIA NG
Mercer students make hearts that don’t cost a dime. By Max and David Hoyt The College Voice
Valentine’s Day has become one of the largest and most consumer driven holidays of the American calendar. According to the National Retail Federation, in past years, the spending on Valentine’s Day was second only to the combined total of the winter holidays (an estimated $457 billion) with a estimated spending of $13 billion. A holiday that fills some with hope and many with dread, raked in only $10 billion less then the Department of Energy’s requested budget for research in alternative energy in 2007 ($23 billion). However,
this year CNN has projected an estimated total retail spending of over $17 billion dollars, averaging out to about $122.98 per consumer who chooses to partake in the holiday spending. With such startling statistics you may be inclined to believe Valentine’s Day to be a consumer gouging excuse perpetrated by evil masterminds at Hallmark. However, Valentine’s Day can be linked back to the Roman holiday, the Feast of the Lupercalia. This holiday, once celebrated from February 13 to 15, existed as a fertility festival in Rome, but it lacked romantic overtones. As Christian influence spread across the world,
the Feast of the Lupercalia morphed with the times eventually evolving into its present state as Valentine’s Day. With the national debt mounting and the economy barely recovering, the average American is forced to consider Valentine’s Day gift choices carefully. Cards are inexpensive, particularly when homemade. Moreover, Valentine’s Day is a holiday that tells us to share our feelings and do something meaningful for our special person, something we can do with a home cooked meal, a memorable evening or even a phone call.
Nick Carter, 29, was recently diagnosed with cardiomyopathy, a heart condition that has claimed many lives. The Backstreet Boy star has been battling with alcohol and drugs for the past 10 years. “[I realized] I don’t want to die” Carter says.
MILEY A RACIST?
Miley Cyrus, who has been all over the news for raunchy photos (and other career mistakes), is now being accused of making racist remarks about Asians by the OCA (Organization of Chinese Americans). Photos of her squinting her eyes in mockery were leaked over the internet.
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Sharing history at inauguration Goodwill and camaraderie prevail at Obama’s swearing in By David Hoyt The College Voice
sniper teams could be seen scanning the crowds for signs of trouble. Other Cont. from pg. 1 members of the media rived at a DC Metro sta- flitted through the crowds, tion holding tickets with interviewing individuals Obama’s face printed while Boy Scouts handed on them and preparing out American flags. to make our way to the Normally there Capitol Building. The sun exists a vague sense of apwasn’t up yet, but as the prehension when masses train pulled to a stop in of strangers are pressed front of me, I realized that together, but these feelit was already crowded. ings were absent; each of Regardless of the us shared the same reacramped quarters every- son for being there and one seemed friendly and goodwill dominated the enthusiastic. As the train crowd. pushed forward, the press So cold was the of bodies and resulting temperature that we heat caused one woman stamped our feet to the to faint in the middle of the beat of the songs blartrain. Everyone worked ing from the jumbotrons. together, someone call- When the beat allowed it, ing for a doctor. As I have we jumped and danced first aid training, I moved to keep from freezing. through the crowd to help Garth Brooks, in parher and she was soon reticular, caused vived. hundreds of As thousands “ Normally there the train of people c r a w l e d exists a vague sense to hop to for wards “American of apprehension into the Pie” and when masses of city, stops “Shout.” close to strangers are pressed As each the capitogether, but these guest of tal buildhonor being were feelings were absent.” gan to ar-David Hoyt closed rive this due to the intensit y amount of grew. It people already in those was as if each person poslocations. sessed a mental count Once off the down towards the big moMetro we joined the ment that continuously throngs of people inching ticked closer. As Obama towards the main event. stepped onto Capitol Hill Road blocks diverted the the applause was deafenstream of people in direct ing. The crowd held its lines, each guarded by collective breath as Biden teams of police men. We and Obama took their would later learn that not oaths of office. a single arrest took place When Obama during the event. was pronounced forty Despite it being fourth President of the only 5 am, crowds had United States two million formed from the Capitol voices cheered themBuilding to the Washing- selves hoarse, tears of joy ton Monument. People fell down many cheeks, who had waited through and strangers began to the night lay huddled in embrace one another. In mounds on top of one every direction we found another. Legions of port- ourselves amidst an ocean o-potties lined one side of of cheering people, blanthe park like soldiers on keted with waving flags, as parade rest. far as the eye could see. Ninety minutes Following Presiof walking and snaking dent Obama’s inaugural through the crowds got us address, which captivatto almost as close as pos- ed the crowd and drew sible to the event without yet more cheers, people possessing one of the cov- turned and thanked their eted inauguration tick- neighbors for sharing ets. Jumbotron screens in the experience with were set up at intervals them. We left feeling the throughout the park to profound wonder of the broadcast the events to moment, and delighting the millions who had be- in the shared experience gun to congregate. that bound us all together On every other on that cold January day. building two member
PHOTO | KENDRA YU
Above: Millions of people carried signs indicating their affiliations and hopes for the next president. Right: Vice President Joseph Biden walking the parade route. PHOTO | CHRIS SZAKOLCZAI
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What have you done for me lately?
Examining Obama’s priorities and record so far By Kento Watanabe Reporter The following is an ata-glance look at what Obama has said and done, so far, regarding key issues of concern to voters during the election.
THE ECONOMY Obama has proposed a $7 billion to $1 trillion stimulus plan that invests in the country’s infrastructure. The investment is the biggest investment in the country’s infrastructure since Eisenhower’s investment of the Interstate Highway system.
TROOP DEPLOYMENTS PHOTO | KENDRA YU
Boy Scouts handed out flags to on-lookers who travelled from every corner of the country to see their new president sworn in. Here a father and son celebrate despite the freezing cold.
Further, 3,000 U.S. troops that were destined for Iraq were instead deployed in Afghanistan as part of a 55,000 NATO force in Afghanistan. Obama is expected to double the size of American troops in Afghanistan by this
summer. Obama has made clear statements of his intentions to withdraw troops from Iraq, although his national security team consists of people who largely supported the war. Bush’s War on Terror policies in Pakistan have not changed. On Jan. 23 a U.S. spy plane killed at least 15 in Pakistan. Obama appointed Richard Holbrooke as a special U.S. representative to Pakistan and Afghanistan, who authorized additional arms shipments to Indonesia when Indonesian suppression of the Timorese reached genocidal levels under the Carter administration.
TERRORISM Although Obama has ordered the closure of Guantanamo Bay prison, analysis of his executive orders, signed on Jan. 22, indicate that he continues to allow use of “extraordinary rendition” a con-
troversial means of extracting information from would-be terrorists that most humanitarian organizations firmly rebuke.
FOREIGN RELATIONS Polls have shown that Obama is popular in many countries, and has pledged to make a major speech in the Muslim world in early 2009. He has also pledged to make progress on the IsraeliPalestinian conflict. Hillary Clinton, the Secretary of State, has pledged to make a policy of engagement with Iran.
LABOR Obama supports The Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA) that requires employers to recognize a union that a majority of employees vote for. Obama has said it isn’t in his top priorities compared to healthcare and climate change, although he supports it.
ABORTION Obama has also overturned the Global Gag Rule (which came in during the Reagan and Bush administrations), which cut critical funds from organizations abroad which provided legal, voluntary abortions and counseling about abortion.
THE ENVIRONMENT Obama had pledged a $150 billion investment in alternative fuel in the next 10 years, and ensuring 10 percent of America’s electricity comes from renewable sources by 2012.
OTHER ISSUES Immigration reform and federally recognized civil unions for same-sex couples are also issues that Obama supports but are not currently in his top priorities.
info source: www.whitehouse.com
PHOTO | KENDRA YU
More than two million spectators gathered to witness the inauguration.
Students and faculty have high Obama hopes By David Hoyt with reporting from Geralissa Bryson Reporter
PHOTO | CHRIS SZAKOLCZAI
PHOTO | KENDRA YU
Top: Parade route. Bottom: In the early down, millions gather at the base of the Washington monument.
On January 20, 2009 history was made as Barack Obama was elected forty-fourth President of the United States. A multitude of races, cultures and backgrounds were all brought together on this day to share in an historic event. Among the millions who watched the inauguration were many from the student body of Mercer County Community College. Each student who looked on drew their own conclusions as to what this historic event meant to them. Donovan Smith, a Liberal Arts student at Mercer, said that the inauguration “means to me, better opportunity for African American culture. I feel that this will help to unite us as a race as well as unite other cultures.”
“ I feel like a lot of people died for this day and fought for us to have the rights we have today. I feel that we have accomplished a long term goal and I could not be happier.” -Kiara Watkins
Smith mentioned that issues that concerned him in upcoming years were that “there’s not enough job opportunities” and “I wish that college was more affordable as well.” He was unable to watch the inauguration, but he said that he was proud to see such an event occur in his lifetime. Unique Thomas, a second year business student, shared similar feelings about the inauguration. “I feel that change is here. I felt inspired that if he could do it, anyone could” said Thomas demonstrating the powerful and life changing effect this event has had on him. “Making college more
affordable not only for upper class and middleclass but the undervalued as well” was a concern Thomas stated that he hopes President Obama would address. Overall, “It gave me motivation to do better” said Thomas. Another Mercer student, Kiara Watkins, said “it means a lot to me with regards to change and to what President Barack Obama stands for as a person.” She expressed her admiration about “how well educated and talented he is as well.” Watkins added that “I feel that a lot of people died for this day and fought for us to have the rights we have today. I feel that we
have accomplished a long term goal and I could not be happier.” Faculty also commented on how meaningful this election was to them. Professor Johnson of Sociology said the election felt like “a breath of fresh air” which she said was long overdue. Her views did deviate from the students slightly though. “The race of Barack Obama doesn’t play a role in my opinion at all” she said, while for many students that had been a key point. Nevertheless, the issue that Professor Johnson wished to see addressed in Obama’s Presidency is “employment for the poor as well as African American men.” While there may be many grim issues facing the country, the students of Mercer appear to share a general feeling of excitement alongside the hope of a brighter tomorrow.
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SPORTS
Women’s basketball team beats Salem by 22 points By Sam Grindlinger Reporter
The lady Vikings began the game strong. Only ten minutes into the first half they held a lead of 22 to 6. The game continued with a Mercer dominating throughout. The Salem girls were focused and fierce players, but they only fielded six players to Mercer’s twelve player team. Salem never allowed Mercer too much time in their own scoring zone and played with energy despite being unable to make regular substitutions. In the second half, Salem tried to come back and close the gap on Mercer. But five minutes into the second half, the Mercer girls caught their second wind and momentum picked up. Although the Vikings maintained their
lead throughout, game play was fierce. Fans, teammates and coaches alike were on their feet cheering and engrossed in the action. Salem guard, Lisa Lee, sustained one injury when she collided with fellow teammate, Tarria Yates. Although she remained on the ground for a moment, the Salem guard was able to get up and walk off. She returned to the game before the two-minute warning. With three seconds left in game time, Mercer forward Samantha Foley landed two penalty shots to close the game 78-56. The Mercer girl’s will head to the Region XIX Tournament at the end of the month. Game times and schedules can be found by clicking the sports link on the VOICE home page at www. mcccvoice.org.
PHOTO | SANDRA ISAAC
Lady Viking’s in a game vs. Camden County College on Feb. 5, 2009/
New coach does good things for men’s hoops By Ben Meister Reporter
On Tuesday, February 3, the Vikings men’s basketball team gained its twelfth season win; they scored 78-73 over Essex County. Corey Payton lead in scoring with 29 points. Close behind him was Stephen Perry who scored a total of 23 points for the Vikings. At the moment the Vikings’ record is 12-10, but Perry feels that they have a better team then their record would indicate. He says “We have good days and bad days; we just can’t play consistently as a team.” The team has a new coach,
Howard Levy, this year. He replaced Kelly Williams, who, after nine years at Mercer has now transferred to the program at The College of New Jersey. Levy has experience both as a coach and player at Princeton University, among other schools. In addition to focussing on their training, academics have really been the top priority for the team players and staff. When asked about Mercer’s basketball program of Mercer’s Basketball program Perry described it as great. He goes on to explain that the coach and other important members of the athletic department really care about their play-
MERCER’S SPORTS ANNOUNCER, CRAIG COENEN By David Patrylow Reporter
There is a professor who drives 85 miles a day, six days a week to get to the Mercer campus. He even takes time to come in on Saturdays to announce for the men’s and women’s basketball games, though the spectators may include only a few dozen fans. And why does History Professor Craig Coenen do it? Because of his genuine love of sports. “Although it’s a small crowd, those who come are passionate. They really get into it” says the Coenen. Coenen, is a tenured professor in his seventh year at Mercer, and this is his fourth year announcing for the basketball teams. He got the gig at an open tryout for the position; it required an impromptu narration of a five minute video tape. He was told to just start describing the action going on in front of him. Before Coenen earned the position it had usually been occupied by a student, but with the students coming and going so often, it was hard to have any consistency in the TV studio. Coenen grew up an avid baseball watcher, a fan of the Chicago Cubs. He cites longtime Cubs announcer Harry Carry as his favorite professional announcer and inspiration. He also grew up a Green Bay Packers fan, as his father was from Wisconsin. He proudly recounts a story of how his father made a $1000 dollar bet that the Packers would win another Super Bowl before the Minnesota Vikings ever won their first. Coenen says this was when the Vikings were one of the premier teams in the NFL while the Packers were a sinking ship. His father won the bet.
PHOTO | CHRIS SZAKOLCZAI
History Professor Craig Coenen. Coenen’s knowledge of NFL history is encyclopedic. He wrote a book, published a book in 2005, entitled From Sandlots to the Super Bowl: The National Football League, 1920-1967, which outlines 47 years of the history of the NFL and the leagues rise to prominence. Amazon.com reviews say that it “follows how professional football rose from its humble beginnings of sometimes practically unknown local teams to become the business powerhouse that it is today” and that the book is “It’s impeccably researched and documented throughout. Truly a masterful job…” Want to talk football? History? Football History? You can find Coenen in his office on the first floor of the LA building during regular office hours each weekday.
ers. They are constantly making sure that there grades are solid and that they have all the necessary help to transfer. They even make sure that their players aren’t going hungry while out on away games when it is easy to forget to eat. Although this year has not turned out to be spectacular, there are quite a few games left with more than enough opportunities for the Vikings to prove themselves. When Levy came over to the Vikings program he said, ”We are going to work our hardest to reach our potential as a team and in the classroom. If we do that, I know that plenty of victories will come.”
COLLEGE VOICE | FILE PHOTO
Howard Levy, new men’s bball coach.
VIEWPOINTS
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Learning to trust our leader in a post-Bush world
VOICE the college
THE WAY IT IS
Editorial Board
Susana Sanchez, Editor-in-Chief David Hoyt, Managing Editor Caroline Fling, Copy Editor Jason Brown, Sports Editor Katrina Brophy, Viewpoints Editor Ken Rosen, Layout & Design Editor
Staff Daisuke Katsumata, Staff Writer Mabel Duran-Sanchez, Staff Writer Zachary Gilmore, Staff Writer Justina Slachta, Staff Writer Brian Edgeworth, Staff Writer Kento Watanabe, Staff Writer Kelly Wittkop, Staff Copy Editor
Katrina Brophy
Starting a new job can be hard. One has to blend with their new environment and mingle with new co-workers. Expectations are set extremely high, especially when you’re replacing a former employee. Everyone can relate to this pressure. Now take your first, part-time
Design & Layout Eva Surany, Designer Kendra Yu, Designer Jarret Courtney, Designer
Photography
Mike Kay, Staff Photographer Chris Szakolczai, Staff Photographer Sandra Isaac, Staff Photographer Josh Sniadach, Staff Photographer Olivia Ng, Staff Photographer
get more opinions and add your own thoughts anytime at: mcccvoice.org
Faculty Adviser Holly-Katharine Mathews
race still matters By Richard Hutchinson Reporter In the mind of many, the good old “negro” battle for equality is over because this country has managed to elect its first AfricanAmerican president. Can it be that only the minorities in this country recognize that there is still an unresolved issue of race almost everywhere we turn? Racism isn’t something that is as blatant as it once was; there are no more lynching’s, white-only restaurants, or separate bathing facilities, but racism continues to be seen through small gestures, snide looks, “you know you ghetto if” emails, and anti-Semitic and Arab terrorism jokes. We’re going to need more than just President Obama to make real and lasting chang-
es. We each must look deep within ourselves and evaluate our thoughts, fears and fixed opinions that have made us biased, then make a conscious effort to dispel the stereotypes and fears we harbor. In the words of Princeton Professor Cornell West, “A fully functional multiracial society cannot be achieved without a sense of history and open, honest dialogue.” The past must be thoroughly acknowledged and understood so that we may be able to move forward as a “united” country. And although we have come to a pivotal point in our nation’s racist history, we risk complacency and worse if we imagine we have somehow arrived at the moment of liberty and justice for all.
job and multiply that stress by 1,000. Imagine having to lead the free world, fix a crumbling economy and repair foreign relations, all the things President Obama is dealing with. The first 100 days in office for presidents are thought to be the most important. The president’s every move is scrutinized and judged by political experts. So far, Obama has lifted a ban on abortion funds and signed an executive order to close Guantánamo detention camp. Many conservative pundits and some arms of the media criticized Obama’s decisions. For Obama’s first television appearance, he chose an Arab network over any American channel. This was in hopes to ease tension between the western world and the Arab world. While these actions are controversial, is it necessary
for the American public to pass judgment on everything President Obama does? While a new president should be prepared for the hardest job in the world, people are making a habit of being armchair quarterbacks where Obama is concerned. We as a public elected Obama to be Commander-inChief, so we should be trusting in his actions. Perhaps people are afraid of another George W. Bush style presidency. Bush’s job approval rating dropped to 28 percent according to Gallup polls which demonstrates that Americans did not feel that President Bush did a good job. Now we have a new start but liberals who feel they have been sidelined for eight years may have unreasonable expectations for their new president, while those who vot-
ed for McCain may be worried that Obama will bring an end to the conservative values they hold dear. Rush Limbaugh, conservative talk show host stated, “I hope [Obama] fails.” Besides being obnoxious, negative remarks like this one make Americans look unable to trust their leaders. This may make us more vulnerable to those who wish to do us harm. It does nothing to increase morale or to improve the safety of our citizens, which had seemed to be a priority on the conservative agenda that Limbaugh represents. Those at both ends of the political spectrum must find a way to make their expectations of the new president reasonable if the nation is to heal from nearly a decade of divisiveness and partisanship.
Can you get out of here in two years? By Josh Onorati Reporter A new crop of high school seniors will soon graduate. Some are planning to come to community college and many are wondering what their major will be, how much will it cost to attend, and how long it will take them to graduate. Many first year Mercer students figure they are only going to be here for two years, but according to Mercer’s 2008 institutional assessment (the most recent year for which data is available), of all first time freshman entering the college, not even 10 percent graduate in two years. Most students think that if they take eight classes, four in the fall and four in the spring, for two years, they will get their associate’s degree in two years. However, at that rate it may take three or even more years to graduate. In fact, if you want to graduate from Mercer in two years, you will have to take five classes per semester and possibly some summer courses on top of that. Students who are unaware of these facts often end up spending more money and taking more time to receive an
associate’s degree than they had ever expected. For a student to graduate they need a total of 60 credits. Classes at Mercer County range from two to four credits, and some class aren’t even transferable. Under the new Lampitt bill, students who complete their associates at any New Jersey community college should have all 60 credits of their work count if the transfer to a four year state college or university. But students planning to continue their education out of state or at a private college often find that not all of the credits they paid for are transferable to their new institution. They often end up retaking classes they thought they’d completed, costing them still more money and time. Lauren Krosnick, a Business Marketing Major stated “I had no idea that we needed to take more than 4 classes per semester to get out of here in two years,” a sentiment echoed by many of her peers. In a survey of 40 Mercer students they were asked “Did you realize that you needed to take at least 5 classes per semester to graduate in two
years?” Seventy-five percent stated that they didn’t. How is it possible that this crucial information isn’t widely known? Many students report having been given the wrong impression and even incorrect information from the academic advisors in the Student Center. Students now have full time faculty members who are there to help them with their course planning, but many students report that faculty advisers are often hard to find and some just don’t want to take the time. “I knew we had to take more than 4 classes, only because I did research. No adviser told me that I needed to take more than four, they assumed. When I told them I wanted five they were surprised.” Said Ross Peppler, a Business Major at Mercer. It would be nice to think we could simply complain and suddenly advisors would provide better and clearer information, but the real lesson for incoming freshman is that they must do their research and advocate for themselves at all times. Read the course catalog, make no assumptions, prepare to take at least five classes.
Nintendo Wii gaming system is doing nothing for your social skills or your wallet By Jessicarose Fattibene Reporter
that look like you. But in case no one has noticed, you already look like yourself and you could easily do the activities in these games without the purchase of an expensive game console. The Wii generally sells for $250. The games ranging in price from $20 to $50. At the very least, consumers would be spending $270 dollars…to go bowling. With a call to Brunswick Lanes in East Windsor you would find out that if you go
With the creation of the Nintendo Wii system, children and adults alike are finding a fun new way to get ripped off and stay planted in front of their televisions at a higher cost. Gone are the days of the Skip-It and Moon Shoes, here, and dead set on staying, is virtual reality. Wii’s appeal may be its unprecedented motion sensor controllers and ability to create players Editorial Policy: The College VOICE is written and edited by students of Mercer County Community College and published every 3 weeks under the advisement of a faculty adviser. The material printed in The College VOICE, be it articles, advertisements or opinion pieces, does not necessarily represent the views of the editors, the faculty, staff, administration or the board of trustees of Mercer County Community College.
from 6pm -10pm they it would only cost you $1.50 a game. Given the current economic crisis it’s hard to imagine how Wii sales are staying so strong. Games such as Wii Music, Brunswick Pro Bowling, and Mini Golf are among the most popular. In one recent commercial two friends appear to be window shopping in a Wii town of sorts. And I have seen on talk shows like The View a Wii game involving a dance party. Get-
ting together and dancing with your friends and going window shopping have always been free of charge, so why drop a few hundred dollars to do that in front of your TV? Along with the high cost of game consoles of all sorts, comes a social loss. Kids today already spend much of their time talking online with their friends instead of spending time face-to-face. Now that Wii has come along, people of all
Write to The College VOICE! Do you have something to say? The College VOICE accepts letters to the editor. Submissions should be no more than 300 words; longer submissions may be shortened. Submit materials in electronic format, and include your name and status at Mercer (major and year, faculty or staff position or alumnus). All materials submitted become the property of The College VOICE, which reserves the right to reject or edit material based on length, taste or clarity.
ages are choosing to pretend to do physical activities in their homes instead of playing football in the park, mini golf at a course, or actually bowling and meeting new people. Society is becoming more antisocial. Instead of spending over $250 to hula hoop, go to Toys’R’US and pick one up for $4.99. Maybe you’ll meet a hottie who likes to hula too.
How to contact us: e-mail: MercerVoice@gmail.com phone: (609) 586-4800 ext. 3594 write to: The College VOICE Mercer County College PO Box B Trenton, NJ 08550
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JUST 4 FUN horoscopes
ASK THE VOICE: good answers to tough questions _____ Help is here!
Dear Voice, My classmates ask really dumb questions and provide long, unrelated answers including their entire life stories. What should I do? It’s hard to focus in class. -Trying To Focus Dear Trying To Focus, Catch the person in the hallway before class and threaten them that if they don’t stop asking unnecessary questions and giving lengthy responses, you’ll punch their lights out. -The Voice
Dear Voice, My professor raises the un-dead and frequently brings his subjects to class. Besides being a severe hindrance to the learning environment, they have eaten eight students to date. Please help! -Munched in Math Dear Munched, The most effective way to kill the un-dead is to remove the head or destroy the brain. Good Luck! -The Voice _____ Dear Voice, I am a professor at Mercer who requires cigarettes to curb my homicidal rage towards students who come to my class late. What can I do when Mercer becomes a
smoke-free campus?! -Nicotine Fiend Ph.D.
Dear Fiend, Kill students? Administration needs a good counter example. -The Voice _____ Dear Voice, I keep wanting to play videos games at lunch but the gamers wont let me. What do I do? -Gamer Dear Gamer, Don’t worry, gamers are a weak breed. Simply belittle one of their 1337 skillzors and then take their controller. Happy fragging! -The Voice _____ NOTE: THIS FEATURE IS FOR ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY. ANY RESEMBLANCE TO ACTUAL PROBLEMS IS PURELY COINCIDENTAL.
THEME CROSSWORD: CASINO!
Capricorn
Aquarius
Pisces
Aries
Dec. 22 - Jan. 19
Jan. 20 - Feb. 18
Feb. 19 - Mar. 20
Mar. 21 - Apr. 19
You haven’t heard? Mega Millions Jackpot is up and the stars are aligning in your favor! Disclaimer: The College VOICE is not responsible for you wasting your money on a lottery ticket that probably won’t yield you with cash.
Yeah? Think your having a bad month? Did a wild stampede of giraffe crash through your living room, destroying all your collection of stamps that you had organized alphabetically? Didn’t think so.
The extra hours you’re putting in to the task at hand will pay off. The ones you want to notice will, and all will become better. This is your month to shine. Open your eyes to a world new and exciting in many ways.
The ceiling above you, which has, for so long, held you back, cracks, sending light streaming through barriers to guide your way forward. You have waited long enough. Follow your true calling and never stray from the path.
Taurus
Gemini
Cancer
Leo
Apr. 20 - May 20
May 21 - Jun. 20
Jun. 21 - Jul. 22
Jul. 23 - Aug. 22
Things may be bad but be optimistic, for around an upcoming turn you may catch a lucky break. Be weary of the decisions and choices you make because who knows, maybe you’ll win the lottery. Not like the fool Capricorn above.
Something troubles you. If you simply face the truth and confront the devil on your shoulder, everything will be resolved. The angel can only whisper into your ear, it is you who has to put to action the advice of your better half.
This is your month to give back to your school! You will be joining The College Voice and working as either a reporter, webmaster, or one of the other many fulfilling jobs that are available. ET127 Mondays at Noon.
Golden Grahams are the best. Packed with calcium and Vitamin D, you eat 2 bowls a day and you’ll be able to do that report you needed to turn in yesterday. I’m just saying, eat your cereal in the morning, and go to class.
Virgo
Libra
Scorpio
Sagittarius
Aug. 23 - Sept. 22
Sept. 23 - Oct. 22
Oct. 23 - Nov. 21
Nov. 22 - Dec. 21
You have the whole summer to look forward to and then a back to school birthday party to end an amazing summer with! Get through the semester and party it up. You have earned your right to go a little crazy and have fun.
Libra: it being your own College Voice design and layout editor’s sign, anyone with a birthday in this month receives a free hug. Feel free to approach me in the halls, during, or before class and ask to receive yours today!
Got a little chip on your shoulder? Family problems? Girl issues? Whatever it may be, go out tonight, have a few drinks (21 and above) and kick back. Clear your head and wake up the next morning with no regrets.
He/She will be back. They may have taken a step off the road which is your life, but will, sure as the sun will rise, come back to you. See them for who they are and understand where they come from. Space and time apart can help.