The Etownian - 2/16/2012 by The Etownian

Mr. Etown Nominees Chosen

‘From Up Here’ Comes to Tempest

Campus Life, Page 6

Features, Page 4

Blue Jays Suffer Tough Loss Against Lycoming Sports, Page 10

townian E Elizabethtown, Pa. 17022-2298 On the Web: www.Etownian.com

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Elizabethtown College

February 16, 2012

York County

on campus

Autumn A. Steel Staff Writer

Austin M. Whitlock Staff Writer

Since 1904

Volume 108, Issue 15

Club XS loses liquor license, gives Strikwerda talks plans free alcohol to all legal customers for student growth

lub XS, in North York, has begun serving free drinks after losing its liquor license earlier this month. A commonwealth court has upheld the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board’s (PLCB) decision to take away Club XS’s liquor license. The PLCB cited several fights that took place outside the club as its reasoning. Joel Weinstein, the owner of Club XS, believes that the court misread the facts. Weinstein was shocked that the court upheld the PLCB decision: “[Club XS has] been here for five-and-a-half years, and I’ve been in this business for 22 years and I’ve never had problems like I’ve had with the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board.” He maintained that his club has never had any more problems than any other busy club. He is asking for reconsideration, but until then, he has been forced to change the nature of his operation. A liquor license is not required when giving away alcohol for free. Giving it away to people of the legal drinking age is not illegal as long as the alcohol is truly free and there are no conditions in order to get it. Weinstein is unsure of how long he plans to run his business in this fashion, but he does not see it changing any time soon. “This is the way the business will operate unless something changes, whether we get reconsideration, or we get a new liquor license when we qualify to apply for one,” Weinstein said in a phone interview. “For the present and for the near future, and I would say certainly for the next year, I anticipate this is the way that we will operate.” So far the new business plan

Photo: York Daily Record/Sunday News

Club XS inYork, Pa., recently had its liquor license revoked due to a June 2010 shooting as well as a fight on NewYear’s Eve. The club is now giving away free alcohol to all customers but is still charging an entrance fee.

is working well for Club XS. “We were very well-supported last week, with this new concept. We had good attendance, everyone was very supportive and I think we made as much or more money than we would have selling alcohol,” Weinstein said. The new business plan is still in its early stages. Weinstein mentioned that there is a possibility that nights when the club is less crowded could turn into bring your own (BYO) nights. “It’s been less than a week so it is kind of hard to know what our business plan will be. As I say, we’re going to see where the people walk and then build the sidewalk.” All drinks are free, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, the only exception being Red Bull. There is no limit to the amount of free drinks each person can receive in a single night; guests can drink as many complimentary drinks as they want from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Of course the bar does reserve the right to refuse

to serve someone who appears to be physically intoxicated or who is causing a disturbance. Club XS has made one additional change in order to allow them to continue serving free drinks. “We now charge an entrance fee solely to come into the club to participate in the entertainment,” Weinstein said. “Most people seem to have come in, had a good time and not minded that we’ve had to up the cost to actually come into the club.” Everyone must pay the entrance free, whether they are drinking or not. The entrance fee ranges from $15 to $20, depending on the event taking place. Regular events include college night every Thursda, and karaoke night every Wednesday and Sunday night. Special events include swingers night, Latin night and drag shows. All the shows, events and DJ’s are the same as when the club had a liquor license, the only difference being that the entrance fee is higher and the alcohol is free.

lizabethtown College’s strategic plan, a five-year overview of what changes need to be implemented both on campus and off campus in connection with the school, has been dissected and debated by over 500 faculty, staff, students and alumni since the end of August 2011 and is now in the stages of a first draft. One particular topic of interest is whether or not to increase the size of the student population from about 1,800 undergraduates and 30 graduates to a larger number. Many of the schools near Etown have populations larger than that of the College, such as Franklin & Marshall College (over 2,100 undergraduates), Messiah College (almost 3,000 undergraduates) and Millersville University (almost 8,500 undergraduates), and many have plans to increase their enrollments. It seems that 2,000 students is the number for which the College will be shooting. “We think that if you look at a lot of the other colleges that we’re competing with, more of them have over time moved up to be a little bit larger,” President Carl Strikwerda stated. “At the 1,850 we’re at now we’re probably a little bit smaller than a lot of the other institutions. I think growing would give us a little bit more ability to be a stronger institution.” Other than the fact that residence halls will have to grow, the campus is able to support an increase of 150 undergraduates, and with the hiring of more faculty members, still retain a student to faculty ratio of 12:1. While the general campus facilities should be able to handle the increase of students, one factor that could hinder growth is major-specific facilities and resources. Some majors are constrained by what space they use. If the College allows for too large of an increase in the number of students with a specific major, it could be a problem. This is because the College wouldn’t be able to support enough students with the proper resources. In addition, there most likely won’t be any new majors added in the near future. The reasoning behind this is that there are already many majors listed and these already could use enrollment in their program. There are plans to increase the enrollment of international students as well, through communication between the College and foreign countries and an increasingly concerted effort to recruit students through pipeline programs. Other ways to increase the international presence will be done by making sure the school has a solid online profile and that the school offers more teaching of English as a second language. While increasing the number of students enrolled in the College is seen as important it is also a concern that quality is maintained. “I think we’d rather [increase the number of students] incrementally because the other concern that we have is that we keep quality. We’re not trying to grow in quantity by lowering our standards; if anything, we’d like to raise standards even more if we could,” Strikwerda said. Specific numbers have been laid out for accepting students in order to maintain quality. The first draft of the strategic plan states that no more than 60 percent of first-year applicants will be admitted, while at least 30 percent of an incoming class should be first-generation students and 40 percent should be top ten in their class. The College is very close to all of these numbers already. When Strikwerda first applied for college presidency, he had thoughts to increase the size of the campus in order to keep it competitive. After the first few months on the job he had a change of heart and realized that increasing the size of the school is not as important as maintaining quality. “I would say the strategic planning process for me has been one where over the last couple of months it’s had an impact on my thinking. I’ve probably changed my thinking on this more than anything. Now I’m back to the position where a little bit of growth can be a good thing.”

food quality

Forty sick after drinking milk from farm in Chambersburg, Pa. Stacey N. Kreston Staff Writer

wo Lancaster County residents experienced stomach cramps, diarrhea and vomiting after drinking raw milk distributed by Your Family Cow farm in Chambersburg, Pa., in January of this year. They were diagnosed with Campylobacter illness, a bacterial infection. These two people, who both live within a short drive of Elizabethtown, were not the only ones in the area to be diagnosed. 38 more cases of Campylobacter have sprung up in Pennsylvania, as well as in a few surrounding states. Every person who wound up with the sickness had one commonality: they all drank the raw milk from Your Family Cow farm. Fourth-generation owners of Your Family Cow farm, the Shank family was in high hopes during the extensive testing of their raw milk,

which began at the end of January and stretched into the start of February. They did not want to believe that their product could have made their loyal customers sick, said Edwin Shank, the primary owner. The entire goal of their raw milk is to offer people “the opportunity to experience fresh, organic raw milk just as if they had their own family cow.” The Shanks wanted to offer unprocessed foods because they believe the consumption of these all-organic foods can make people healthier. Yet, to their dismay, on Feb. 3, they were forced to officially admit to the public that a batch of their raw milk from January had tested positive for Campylobacter. They immediately had to pull all of their raw milk from the shelves in stores and stop production until the Pennsylvania Department of Health (PDH) and the PA Department of Agriculture (PDA)

conducted further investigation. Though they were never able to pinpoint exactly what allowed this bacterial infection to grow in their milk, it is suspected that the source could have been the Shanks’ hot water system which is used to wash out the milk tank, milking system and bottler that are used during the milking process. The water heater in the system was only brining the water to about 140-150 degrees, while the more sanitary heat of 160-170 is preferable. Shank said they used their “down time” productively, to make renovations which have replaced the old system with “a high tech, computerized tank-less system that constantly delivers 180-degree water or hotter if we wish.” Shank said they are also “outfitting [their] own laboratory,” so that the farm SEE MILK PAGE 3

Photo: yourfamilycow.com

An employee at Your Family Cow farm in Chambersburg, Pa. gets milk ready for distribution. The farm now has a lot to prove after 40 Pennsylvania residents were diagnosed with a bacterial infection.

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News

Shops sell illegal drugs; face consequences

Jayd-ed C edge

Huntley C. McGowan News Editor

Father puts eight bullets through daughter’s laptop Next time you’re thinking about posting a nasty comment about your parents on Facebook, think twice. Father Tommy Jordan taught his 15-yearold daughter a lesson when she posted all over the social media site about how unfair her father was being by making her complete chores around the house. Her posting on Facebook used several expletives concerning her father and his everyday habits as well. As a means of retaliation, Jordan posted an eight minute response video on YouTube and his daughter’s Facebook page. In the video, which has now generated more than 22 million views, Jordan reads the daughter’s letter aloud and responds to her criticisms. He concludes by putting 8 bullet holes through his daughter’s laptop and remarks that she can get a new one when she can afford to pay for it herself. Comments on the YouTube video vary between praise for Jordan’s aggressive yet firm parenting style to criticisms of abuse. MSN reporter Bob Sullivan is currently investigating whether or not this video is the product of a real parent’s doing or if was merely a stunt. Watch the now famous video by visiting YouTube and searching “Facebook Parenting: For the Troubled Teen.”

February 16, 2012

Shana M. Mihovics Asst. Campus Life Editor R’s Friendly Market, a convenience store located on East High Street in Elizabethtown, was caught selling synthetic marijuana and bath salts in exchange for food stamps. The Pennsylvania Legislature banned these illegal drugs last year and those who purchased the substances were illegally using their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) cards, which are solely intended for food. On Feb. 1, police officers raided CR’s Friendly Market and owner Baljeet Singh was arrested, along with employee Jaspreet Singh. They were both charged with dealing in proceeds of unlawful activities, possession with the intent to deliver and various other charges. According to the Elizabethtown Borough Police Department, arrest warrants were granted to those associated with the convenience store. Undercover officers had been investigating the business for a couple of weeks after they received a tip that illegal drugs were being sold at the store. According to the Feb. 2, 2012 issue of The Elizabethtown Advocate, Singh claimed he was unaware he was breaking the law. Bath salts are a relatively new designer drug that often contain synthetic stimulants like mephedrone, MDPV and methylone. They are sold illegally in several Pa. stores in powder form, according to WebMD. CR’s Friendly Market, neighboring the Elizabethtown Area High School, is situated in a prime spot for citizens of the town, as many students pass it on their way to school. The drug search may come as a shock to many, but it is similar to the Bad Boys Toys raid in late December.

Bad Boys Toys, a drug paraphernalia specialty shop on South Market Street, was also accused of selling illegal bath salts. Local business owners in Elizabethtown, as well as patrons of the town, were happy to see the police taking action and stopping the unlawful acts. These incidents can be seen as a threat to many people living in Etown, as well as those attending school here at Elizabethtown College. To local business owners, the illegal activity was viewed as dangerous to their own businesses even though they were unaware the dealings were going on. A Bad Boys Toys in Lemoyne, Pa. was also shut down in December and similarly, the owner was arrested and accused of selling illegal bath salts. Two Bad Boys Toys co-owners in Palmyra, Pa. were arrested on drug dealing-related charges in December also. The Londonderry Township Police officials described the business as being worth millions of dollars. The officers confiscated thousands of dollars of drug paraphernalia during the Palmyra investigation. The House of Delegates recently banned the use of bath salts and the American Medical Association supported the decision. Bath salts are sold in many paraphernalia stores for as little as $10 and the addiction effects can be compared to those of cocaine. They are sold under various names such as “Vanilla Sky” and “Blue Silk” and can cause hallucinations as well as high blood pressure and paranoia. Bath salts have been banned in many states, including the recent ban in Pennsylvania, but are still legal in some states. For more information or to report suspicious sightings, contact the Elizabethtown Borough Police at 717-367-6540, or on foot at 600 South Hanover Street.

Purple Squirrels A purple squirrel now has its very own Facebook page with more than 8,000 fans. While experts are not aware of what truly made this squirrel seem purple, there is no doubt that this unique creature appeared to be a different color. Harold Cole, a warden with the Pennsylvania Game Commission who investigated the case, remarked that, while purple squirrels are not normal, they are definitely not out of the question either. Percy Emert and his wife explained that they used peanuts as bait to trap the animal. “At first I thought somebody around here was playing tricks,” Emert said. After taking photos and posting them to Facebook, the family set the purple squirrel free. Experts are disappointed that they were not able to study the squirrel, as the Emerts set it free before anyone else had a chance to look at it. However, the family did hold on to fur and other trimmings that were left behind in the cage. They gave all of their findings to Cole, who remarked that, even though the squirrel is indeed purple, the animal does not appear to pose a hazard to the community and is reported healthy. While Cole does not believe that the Emerts dyed the squirrel purple, he wouldn’t be surprised if another member of the community did indeed pigment the animal previously in order to keep track of it. Cole also believed that perhaps the squirrel “ingested something that lent a purple tinge to the fur — maybe the local pokeberries, maybe an industrial compound, maybe even a food containing purple pigment.” Henry Margusity, AccuWeather meteorologist, provided another possibility for the purple Pennsylvania squirrel’s existence. “It could have been looking for somewhere warm and fallen into a Port-a-Potty or something similar,” he said. This is not the first time a purple squirrel has been sighted. According to msn.com, a purple squirrel was found near a school in England, and researchers believe the animal found its way into a discarded container of printer ink toner. Perhaps one reason why the animal has now become such a phenomenon on the web is the fact that purple squirrel is also slang for “impossibly ideal job candidate.” Compiled from msnbc.msn.com

Classified Ad Experiencing conflict? Need a neutral problemsolver? Exceptionally trained students available to mediate conflict between roommates, friends, project groups, clubs, etc. Contact Melissa LawPenrose (x1995); LAWPENROSEM@etown.edu.

Photo: Matthew P. Butera

CR’s Friendly Market (pictured above) located on East High Street, and Bad Boys Toys, located on South Market Street were both shut down due to illegal selling of bath salts and other drugs. Police raided the stores after receiving anonymous tips.

smoking ban

Geisinger Medical Center tests for nicotine Katie G. Pebley Staff Writer

tarting Feb. 1, 2012, Geisinger Medical Center stopped hiring job applicants who use tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars and chewing or smokeless tobacco. Geisinger Medical Center, located in Danville, Pa., provides care to over two million residents in 38 counties of central and northeastern Pennsylvania. It was recently named one of the Top 100 Hospitals in the country and has been designated a magnet hospital by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Its physicians have been listed in The Best Doctors in America. The Geisinger campus includes the main medical center along with Janet Weis Children’s Hospital, Geisinger Woodbine Lane, Geisinger-Knapper Clinic, HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital, Henry Hood Center for Health Research, Sigfried and Janet Weis Center for Research, and House of Care. The medical center is the base of the Geisinger Health System, founded in 1915. The system includes the hospital in Danville, Geisinger: Wyoming Valley Medical Center, in the Wilkes-Barre area, Geisinger: South Wilkes-Barre Hospital, in downtown Wilkes-Barre, and Geisinger: Marworth Hospital in Waverly, Pa. It also consists of clinics across Pennsylvania, located in Altoona, Bellefonte, State College, DuBois, Lock Haven, Bloomsburg, Mifflin, Moosic, Dunmore, Hazleton, Mountaintop, Scranton, Lewistown, Milton, Sunbury, Frackville, Pottsville, Selinsgrove and more. According to the Geisinger Health System’s website, “We have recruited top physicians from across the county to join our experts in virtually every medical field, all working to provide you with the most experienced, most compassionate care. Geisinger also offers some of the most advanced technology in the country: a Level I Trauma Center, a 5-helicopter LifeFlight program and clinical research facilities.” Geisinger banned smoking on all of its

properties in 2007. The addition of a nonAfter a new employee is hired, Geisinger nicotine hiring policy is furthering that health- Health System will rely on the honor sysawareness stance. tem, not periodic nicotine testing, to ensure “During the hiring process, all applicants that their employees do not smoke. Appli— including those seeking full- and part- cants who are rejected because of a positive time positions, flex, volunteers and students test for nicotine use are welcome to reapply enrolled in Geisinger-based schools — will be in six months if they become nicotine-free tested for nicotine as part of the routine drug and will be provided with a list of smoking screening. The test will include screening for cessation resources. cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, snuff, nicotine Sandy Spayd, director of health promopatches, nicotine gum and cigars. The test only tion at Elizabethtown College, said, “I believe detects active nicotine users, not those exposed there are a growing number of companies to second-hand smoke,” according to the Dec. going totally smoke free. Since [Geisinger] 28, 2011 press release. has had its site smoke free since 2007, it As reported by USA Today, “Each year, seems reasonable that they would move to smoking or exposure to second-hand smoke this next step to support a healthy environcauses 443,000 premature deaths and costs ment. The important part is that Geisinger the nation $193 billion in health bills and lost offer resources to those who are denied productivity.” The hope and idea is that this employment because of using tobacco and policy will reduce health care costs and de- giving them another opportunity to reapply. crease absenteeism among Geisinger’s 15,000 I believe they are making a very strong stateemployees. Geisinger insists that they are not ment about the risks of tobacco use.” denying smokers their right to tobacco prodGeisinger’s press release also stated ucts but rather just choosing not to hire them. that current employees of its system aren’t However, critics of the policy believe affected by this new policy, but those emthat it may not save the medical center any ployees that use nicotine are encouraged money and is discriminating against potential to use the tobacco cessation programs employees. The District of Columbia and 29 that Geisinger’s Employee Wellness prostates have passed laws that protect smokers, gram offers. but Pennsylvania has not. While federal and most state laws prohibit discrimination based on race, sex, age, handicap and religion, the practice of not hiring individuals addicted to or using nicotine is not considered discrimination legally. Federal laws don’t recognize smokers as a protected class, but many Americans do and have subsequently been outraged by Geisinger’s new guideline. Along with other medical facilities, Ephrata Community Photo: pennlive.com Hospital in Ephrata, Pa., also has such a policy, which they Local medical centers have stopped accepting job implemented July 1, 2011. applicants who test positive for traces of nicotine.

News

economy

Etownian

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February 16, 2012

Unemployment rate falls to 8.3 percent, lowest in three years Evan J. Todd Staff Writer

he unemployment rate is down to 8.3 percent, the lowest it has been since February 2009. This is great news for the U.S. economy. So what does this mean to people that don’t understand how the economy works? Everything the United States economy produces is measured by the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). When GDP turns negative, the economy enters a recession, like the one that began in 2007. When the recession continues for years, it’s called a depression. Supply and demand drive the economy. Supply includes employment and natural resources, such as oil. Demand and personal consumption make up 70 percent of the economy. So when people stop buying, the economy suffers. Fiscal policy refers to the $3.5 trillion federal budget. Ultimately, the revenue for the budget comes from taxes. Fiscal policy can stimulate the economy, but only business can create economic growth. Monetary policy is controlled by the Federal Reserve (The Fed), which is guided by the Fed Chairman. The Fed’s three key economic controls are the Federal funds rate, the money supply and use of credit. The main objective of monetary policy is to control inflation. Its second objective is to stimulate the economy. It is also in charge of the smooth functioning of the banking system. The Federal Reserve Chairman, Ben S. Ber-

nanke, is often called the most powerful person on the planet. In 2007, a collapse in the financial market threw the economy into the worst recession since the Great Depression. It all began with derivatives that were supposed to insure against defaults on sub-prime mortgages. Then insurers defaulted themselves. According to the February edition of The Huffington Post, U.S. employers added 243,000 jobs last month. With new jobs being created, more people can be hired and the unemployment rate will go down. Earlier this year, when the unemployment rate was at 9.1 percent, many job-hunting seniors from Elizabethtown College might have been hard pressed to find a job, but now things are looking brighter for them. Economists at leading Wall Street firms continue to believe that the Federal Reserve will undertake another massive stimulus program, meaning that the government is going to take out money and spend it to help boost the economy and get people to start spending money again. Omair Sharif, U.S. economist with RBS Securities in Stamford, Conn., said, “Despite the fall in the unemployment rate, we do not believe the outlook for Fed policy has been altered significantly.” “I believe the economy will go up slightly but the change between last month and this month is not drastic enough to pull us out of the recession,” Dr. Dmitriy Krichevskiy, professor of economics, said. “I’m happy to hear about the drop [in unemployment]. I’m

Photo: Jacqueline E. Quidort

There is hope for soon-to-be graduates looking for that perfect job. Unemployment is now at 8.3 percent and should continue to fall.

not so nervous about finding a job anymore, or what might happen to me once I graduate,” said Etown sophomore Kohei Ando-Mizano. With the news of the upturn in the unemployment rate, are we out of the woods yet? Not by a long shot, but this is a step in the right direction.

education woes

Lancaster Mennonite High School principal faces charges Sarah R. Wertz Staff Writer

n early November, the assistant principal at Lancaster Mennonite High School, Steve Geyer, was accused of sexually abusing students who were living at his home. He was under investigation when put on administrative leave without pay initially, but was officially fired a week later. It has been reported that the victims were three high school students and one middle school student who were living at his home at the time. All four were foreign exchange students from South Korea and have since been relocated to different host families.

Geyer started his career at Lancaster Mennonite High School as an English teacher in 1999. Geyer and his wife, Charlotte, adopted two boys from South Korea in 1987 and they regularly hosted international students. In December, Geyer was charged with 11 counts of sexual offense including indecent assault of a person less than 13 years old, corruption of minors, forcible compulsion, unlawful contact with minors and other sexual offenses. He was released on $100,000 bail. According to officials and the criminal complaint, Geyer made three of the boys sleep in a camper with him outside of his house. He would then touch them sexually, sometimes when they seemed to be sleeping. If the boys did

News in Brief Elizabeth A. Enwright Copy Editor Whitney Houston’s toxicology report may take weeks Following singer Whitney Houston’s death on Saturday, Feb. 11, there was widespread speculation on news stations, gossip websites and social media outlets that prescription or even illicit drugs were to blame. Houston, the winner of countless Emmy, Grammy, People’s Choice, Billboard and NAACP Image awards, was recently more well-known for her battle with drugs than for her immense talent. But the Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office reported that drugs do not seem to be the sole cause of death. According to Assistant Chief Coroner Ed Winter, fewer prescription medications were on the scene than would be suspected in a typical overdose. Houston, 48, was found by a friend in the bathtub of her hotel room at the Beverly Hills Hilton in Beverly Hills, Ca. Saturday afternoon, according to CNN. She was scheduled to attend a pre-Grammy party later that day. While the Coroner’s Office performed the autopsy on Sunday, the toxicology results, which will show any drugs or other harmful substances present in Houston’s body, will not be available for several weeks, according to the San Francisco Chronicle. The Coroner’s Office is also currently withholding the complete results of the autopsy at the request of the Beverly Hills Police Department. Until the Coroner’s Office obtains the toxicology test results, nothing surrounding the singer’s death is certain. Winter did rule out foul play, though, and revealed that there were no obvious injuries to her body, according to CNN. The autopsy was completed on Sunday, and Houston’s body was released to her family on Monday, Feb. 13. Obama introduces birth control “accommodation” President Barack Obama announced Friday, Feb. 10, that he would include an “accommodation” in the form of a compromise within his contentious contraceptives-for-all mandate. According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, employees of businesses with religious affiliations will still be offered free birth control, but the insurance company, rather than the religiously-affiliated establishment, will foot the bill. Obama’s health care plan emerged in national news again recently when a regulation regarding birth control was set to take effect. The regulation would require all employers to provide birth control coverage as part of their employee insurance plans, a controversial policy which would provide birth control for all. The mandate included religiously-affiliated hospitals, charities and universities, leading to a widespread uproar from Catholic organizations and other religious groups around the country. While Obama’s compromise did win the favor of the Catholic Hospital Association and Catholic Charities, while still pleasing supporters like Planned Parenthood and NARAL Pro-Choice America, Obama was unable to regain the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ approval. According to Yahoo! News, the U.S. Catholic Church leaders announced that they would continue to oppose Obama’s mandate, even with the accommodation. The conference released a statement Friday night which lists several concerns they feel the President is ignoring. They referred to the mandate as “needless government intrusion in the internal governance of religious institutions,” and made a pledge: “We will therefore continue — with no less vigor, no less sense of urgency — our efforts to correct this problem through the other two branches of government.”

not do what they were told, including sleeping in the camper, he would threaten to take them out of Lancaster Mennonite High School and send them back to South Korea. In response to what has been happening, the District Attorney’s office has stepped forward and educated students through presentations to make them more aware of similar situations, prevention techniques and other information. A Philadelphia lawmaker wants Lancaster County District Attorney Craig Stedman to testify on a Senate bill to change the law on how schools report sexual assaults and abuse. Sophomore education major Kimmy Barone said, “It is sad to think that parents send their

children to school for the day and they are being sexually assaulted by a teacher, that should be respected and trusted. Parents and other teachers should question students about their behavioral changes and parents should be in contact with the schools counselors if they are concerned.” Lancaster Mennonite was very quick to inform officials and parents of the situation. They also notified child welfare authorities to remove the students from the home. The superintendent of the school has said that they are focusing on reaching out to all the students and doing their best to prevent a situation like this from happening in the future. The school has also provided counseling for the students who were impacted.

Bacteria found in local milk MILK from page 1 can “test every lot of milk we bottle and hold it ‘til the test shows that it is clear to go.” This idea goes beyond what is necessary for the approval of the PDH and PDA; as Shank put it, “the new protocol differs from what is required by PDA, but let’s just suffice to say that it’s the difference between looking in your rear-view mirror versus the windshield while driving.” Shank is adamant that this type of crisis will never affect their farm again, which has never had any such problems before in its nearly 100 years of existence. On Feb. 6, “after a week of grueling testing and inspections,” Shank was able to announce that Your Family Cow’s raw milk would be back on the market — though in celebration, Shank pushed that even “in this moment of rejoicing, please, everyone, do not forget those of our customers who had it rough the last week or earlier.” Even Shank’s five-year-old son, Jefferson, “prays at every chance he gets that God would make all the sick people better again.” Shank promised, “Our family will never forget the food safety lesson of 2012.” Although the future could be grim for a business whose customers have suffered on account of its products, Shank believes that the farm will continue to thrive in the future. Shank has received “onethousand plus supportive emails” from customers. To Shank this “represents an attitude of love, grace and forgiveness that even we didn’t know to expect and even now do not feel worthy of.” Yet, Shank said this support is what “gives us as your farmers, renewed vision, energy, mission, hope and commitment.” Shank plans to continue his family’s century-old dream of offering the community organic, whole foods and that includes selling raw milk. He said, “We are growing food for noble people. And we, more than ever, are driven to return the favor with quality and safety that is better than ever.”

Profiles • Academic Events • Monthly Series • Culture

performance

eature F

Etownian

The

February 16, 2012

‘From Up Here’ presents comical take on high school, family dysfunction Danielle M. Mitchell Fact Checker

but also familial relationships. You’ll enjoy the crazy antics of the main character’s family as they try to cope with everything that fate seems o you have a free night this upcoming determined to throw at them. Posters on camweekend but no idea what to do with it? Be pus summarize the dramatic comedy: “Kenny sure to stop by the Tempest Theatre box office Barret did something serious – something to find out about “From Up Here.” The dramatic almost deadly – that has everyone worried. He comedy, directed by Terri Mastrobuono, adjunct wished he could just make it through the rest faculty member, is closing this weekend with of the year unnoticed. At home, his mother is performances beginning at 8 p.m. on Thurs- struggling with a rocky second marriage and day, Feb. 16 in the Tempest Theatre. It is sure a surprise visit from her estranged sister. A to entertain with laughs, tears and drama that play about a family limping out the door in the you wouldn’t want to miss. morning and coming home, no matter what.” The production is about a dysfunctional Although its subject matter may sound quite family who has problems dealing with all of serious, there are plenty of laughs to be had. the emotions that come with dealing with high Simpson described the play as “surprisingly funschool and growing up in a crazy household. ny.” You’ll find yourself laughing and worrying Senior stage manager Jenn Simpson said this along with an all-star cast including first-years play is “something everyone can relate to. It’s Stuart Foley and Wendy Moulton; sophomores about this kid that got bullied in high school Katie Owens and Mike Wawrzynek; and seniors and how his whole family is dealing with it.” Nicole St. Pierre, D.J. Littell, Rachel Saul and This play not only depicts life in high school, Coty Morrison. The cast and crew started rehearsals back in the middle of November and practiced five nights a week since. The only time they had off was during winter break. Their hard work and dedication definitely shows in their humorous and touching portrayal of teenage life. Do you find yourself bored to tears by most plays? Have no fear, this performance is sure to keep your attention. Photo: Matthew P. Butera Simpson has seen the play ‘From Up Here’ is sure to engage all audiences. The dramatic many times and continucomedy is about a family dealing with the issues of teens going ally finds something new to enjoy. “Every time I see through high school and dysfunctional family relations.

it, I find something else to relate to,” she said. \ This is high praise coming from a student who has worked in the theatre since her first year. Simpson started working in the box office and has been working in productions off and on since the fall of 2009. Now Simpson is an office assistant and stage manager. As a political science major, Simpson enjoyed working in the theatre so much that she even added theatre as a minor. The actors and actresses on stage aren’t the only ones to thank for this great dramatic comedy. The crew has been very busy arranging all the details just right for opening night. Richard Wolf-Spencer, assistant professor of theater, has been busy working as scenic designer along with guest costume designer Teresa Wolf-Spencer. Senior Angie Wilt works as makeup designer and junior Keller Robinson as lighting designer. Before directing “From Up Here,” Mastrobuono ran her own professional theatre company in Lancaster and has taught at Etown for sixteen years. She has a passion for theater that shows through her dedication to the performing arts. Without these members of the crew, the play could not happen. “From Up Here” is scheduled for 8 p.m. on both Thursday and Friday, Feb. 16 and 17, with a matinee on Sunday, Feb. 19 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $6 and if you haven’t yet, you can still buy tickets at the box office near Tempest Theatre. If you don’t get the chance or don’t have the time to stop by, you can also purchase tickets by calling (717) 361-1170 or emailing BOXOFFICE@ etown.edu. Regardless of how you get your tickets be sure to attend this hilarious and heartwarming dramatic comedy. This is one performance you don’t want to miss! If you are interested in becoming a part of the theater, the

staff profile

Photo: Matthew P. Butera

Mike Wawrzynek (left) and D.J. Littell (right) rehearse for the production.

upcoming play, Lysistrata, has open positions for cast and crew. Contact the theater department or sign up outside the theater office, located near the Bird Cage and dance studio, to become a part of the wonderful world of theater.

on campus

Pulitzer Prize winner shares experience with dyslexia

Donna Talarico engages Blue Jay social media sites, shares views on connections T

Olivia E. Cesar Staff Writer

Samuel Ceron Staff Writer

acebook, Twitter and Pinterest are some of the latest social media sites that millions of people utilize every day. Ever wanted to have a job that consists of updating a social media page? Donna Talarico, Elizabethtown College’s integrated marketing manager, does just that. Since she started working for the Office of Marketing and Communications in August 2010, Talarico updates the College’s social media accounts, is a web content editor for the College’s website and assists people who want to understand how social media works. Last Tuesday, students, faculty and staff attended Talarico’s seminar on social media. She explained how social media has increased with the technology at our disposal and how social media has been able to increase communication between the College and its students as well as prospective students who wish to learn more about Etown. Before the presentation began, Talarico stated that statistically, people check their phones every few minutes for updates or text messages. During the presentation, attendees seemed surprised by the extent at which social media has taken over some forms of communication. At the end of the presentation, some of the questions that were asked were how Facebook’s timeline and privacy settings work so users can enjoy some of the benefits that social media offers. Talarico attended Wilkes University but left to pursue other opportunities in radio. During her time working, she realized she enjoyed writing, technology and higher education. Talarico currently runs her own online literary magazine, Hippocampus, which is a medium for creative nonfiction. Talarico later returned to Wilkes to finish her undergraduate degree in communication studies. She obtained a M.F.A. in creative writing while simultanously working as an adjunct professor at the school.

Talarico was searching for a job that Although some people think that social would give her something “different ev- media has constricted real conversation, eryday,” and the position of integrating she believes that social media has brought marketing manager does just that. “Sell- us closer. An example would be an incoming Elizabethtown” is what Talarico does ing class using social media to meet one and she has been successful in doing so, another so that once they come to school, as evidenced by the growing popularity of the process of interaction has already the College’s social media. Since her arrival, started and face-to-face interaction makes the College’s Facebook page has increased the experience complete. from 2,000 likes to over 5,100. Talarico enjoys Etown because of the This creates more conversation and feel the community brings. “I love the allows people to talk about the College in community,” Talarico said. She likes the a way that attracts prospective students. fact that people are passionate about the “It is about making the College comfort- school, which makes her job fun and excitable,” Talarico said. ing. With Etown being a smaller school, With social media, there is praise as there is more interaction between the stuwell as criticism, and Talarico explained dents, faculty and professors, and they take that, when answering complaints or an ownership in the College community. questions, the most important part is Although working with social media to take a step back from negative com- is a job that requires constant updatments because emotions may play a role ing, Talarico feels that finding a balin a quick response. Talarico advises “not ance between using social media and responding immediately.” face-to-face interaction is important. She acknowledges the complaint, does She understands the importance of the some investigating and then brings the Internet and social media use for school; complaint to the attention of the depart- however, multi-tasking with social mement that has the most knowledge of the dia may not be as productive as focusing situation at hand. Once she obtains the on one task. “It is about finding [your] information, she then responds so that the comfort level,” Talarico said. complaint or query is taken care of in the quickest and most efficient manner. Talarico also believes that the members of a page serve as individual ambassadors and defend the reputation of the College if someone has a problem or complaint. “The page polices itself,” Talarico said. Photo: Katie J. Brumbach Talarico enjoys the interac- When Donna Talarico isn’t engaging the College community tion that social through social media, she enjoys going to ‘quaint cafes and media brings. quirky shoppes’ during her down-time.

his month, world-renowned American poet, Philip Schultz, winner of the Pulitzer Prize and founder and director of New York’s “The Writers Studio,” will be coming to Elizabethtown College to discuss his battle with dyslexia and to read his celebrated poetry on Wed., Feb. 22. Schultz’s presentation, “Learning About Dyslexia,” will take place in the Leffler Chapel and Performance Center at 11 a.m. At 8 p.m. on the same day, he will be reading his poetry at the Bowers Writers House. Schultz was born in Rochester, N.Y. in 1945. He grew up in an immigrant Jewish family from Russia. Many of his books and poems are centered around his family. Impressively, Schultz has been teaching creative writing for nearly 40 years. According to “The Writers Studio,” Schultz has taught undergraduate and graduate fiction, poetry, literature and craft classes at Tufts University, Kalamazoo College and New York University. According to information provided by the Bowers Writers House, Schultz was diagnosed with dyslexia, a learning disability that impairs one’s communication and writing skills, at age 58. Last year, Schultz published “My Dyslexia,” a powerful and touching book about the difficulties he faced in childhood. Schultz struggled with being unable to read. He was held back twice in school and his fellow classmates and teachers ignored him. Schultz was banished to the “dummy class” and no one expected him to succeed. His mother, who dropped out of school after tenth grade, longed to help her son. In an excerpt from “My Dyslexia,” Schultz shares the time he finally discovered he wanted to become a writer: “I remember the first time I even considered the idea of being a writer. I was in the fifth grade when my reading tutor, whom I had been forced to see after my parents were threatened with the possibility of yet another expulsion asked me out of the blue what I thought I might like to do with my life. Without a moment’s hesitation, I answered that I wanted to be a writer.” Schultz did not learn how to read until the age of 11. “My Dyslexia” expresses the struggles of battling the disorder at an early age without fully understanding that he even had it. While at the College, Schultz will present an informative discussion of his book, poetry and life experiences. He will be giving advice for both adults and children who are either currently living with dyslexia or who know anyone who has been diagnosed with the learning disorder.

on campus

Features

Poet, professor presents lecture to commemorate presidential inauguration Jasmin A. Chacon Staff Writer

Etownian

The

February 16, 2012

Upcoming Events “Conflict Transformation: N. Ireland Conflict”

celebration for the new president, considering Film & Discussion he is a scholar himself,” said Dr. Susan Traverso, Feb. 16, 7 p.m. in Hoover 110 provost and senior vice president, “This series is to n Feb. 21 at 7:30 p.m., Dr. Carmine Sarracino, poet recognize what a special year it is for [the] College. “Bloodiest Prison in the South: Insider’s Look” and professor of English, will be presenting “Life, It is a special year because of the new president and Interdepartment Presentation Point Blank: War as a Metaphor for Ordinary Life.” Sar- also to remind us all that we have distinguished Feb. 16, 8 p.m. in the Bowers Writers House racino plans to read from his collection of poems in accomplished scholars on our campus.” “Strategy at The Hershey Company” Hoover 212. She went on to state how Brown Bag Seminar Sarracino, who attended Rhode pleased she is with the results Feb. 17, 11 a.m. in Hoover 212 Island College and the University of the series so far. There have of Michigan, has had previous pobeen a number of students “Renaissance Ensemble, Piffaro” ems published in magazines such who have been attending the Music & Dance Concert as The Laural Review and The various presentations. “When Feb. 18, 7:30 p.m. in Leffler Chapel Beloit Poetry Journal. His first the President, Carl, presented, “The Way of All Flesh” book of poems, “The Idea of the it was a standing presentation, Open Book & Film Event Ordinary” was published in 2003. every seat was taken.” Feb. 20, 7 p.m. in Gibble Auditorium He later went on to publish “The The presenters of the InauHeart of War” in 2005 and “The gural Scholarship Series were “Renting After E-town” Battlefield Photographer” in 2008. all chosen by Dean of Faculty Career Services’ S.T.R.I.V.E. The particular collection of Flectcher McClellan and TraFeb. 21, 6-7 p.m. in the KÂV poems Sarracino will read has a verso. “The professors who are great deal to do with the American speaking are some of the most Civil War. He will explain how, in distinguished faculty of Elizavarious ways, he has come to think “When we do programs like this series, we want to make bethtown,” Traverso added. The and see each day as a life in war. five speakers who were chosen are: Dr. sure there is diversity and that there is access to all students Our lives are similar to war. to be able to engage in all the programs that are offered Courtesy Photo Mark Harman, Dr. Catherine Lemley, Dr. We are wounded everyday, just on campus,” Traverso explained. “The number one goal The provost and dean of faculty Carl Strikwerda, Dr. Carmine Sarracino as those in war are. These wounds chose Dr. Sarracino to present at the and Dr. Jane Cavender. is creating independent learners. You on your own [will] can be physical, such as a reprecus- Inaugural Scholarship Lecture Series. Each one of the speakers individually make good decisions.” sion of an accident, or they can be The presenters want students to be able to have the chose the topic they would speak about psychological and emotional. Some of these wounds could in their presentations. “I asked them to select a topic that opportunity to feel the campus culture not just inside even be fear or grief. they were passionate about, and they could engage a gen- our regular classrooms, but also outside of them. They But this does not mean that we have to see everything eral audience,” Traverso said. “I wanted to have diversity hope to accomplish this by creating programs such as the so negatively. The positive aspects/outcomes of conflict are of fields represented. I wanted to have science, creativeness current Inaugural Scholarship Series. “Students should be courage, heroism and love. Things of this sort are condi- and humanists. Basically, have a high range of fields. I also able to say, ‘I am so grateful I have not only this option tions of war that we can see in our everyday life experiences. wanted to make it clear that we have women professors but so many options to learn from,’” Traverso said. “That Sarracino’s presentation is just one in the yearlong Inau- who are very distinguished.” Traverso also stated that she is the kind of environment the president, the Board and gural Scholarship Lecture Series. “It is celebrating the year thinks that this series works toward the themes set forth by I would like to see around campus, students learning of a new president, Carl J. Strikwerda. It is an appropriate the current strategic plan. beyond the classroom.”

The

Etownian

ampus Lif E C

February 16, 2012

Campus Events • Reviews • Advice • Culture • Food and Drink

on campus

2012 competitors accept challenge for Mr. Etown crown Gabrielle M. Delisle Staff Writer

t’s that time of year again: spring is approaching, students are looking forward to warmer weather, and the men of Elizabethtown College are preparing to strut their stuff on stage in this year’s Mr. Etown competition. The annual male pageant is a favorite among students, who enjoy watching the representatives that they voted for from each residence hall compete in choreographed dances and lip-syncs as well as question and answer segments during the event. “I love the personal dances that the guys come up with,” junior Jessica Crebs said. “They’re hilarious and always unexpected.” In the end, one participant is chosen by a panel of Etown faculty and staff as the best representative of the spirit of the College and is crowned Mr. Etown. The winner then returns to host the event the following year. This year’s competitors will certainly have their work cut out for them when it comes to topping last year’s showstopping performances, but with the ultimate goal of pleasing their adoring public in mind, they are more than prepared to rise to the occasion. Without further ado, meet the men who are vying for the crown in the 2012 Mr. Etown competition. Representing Hackman Apartments this year is Sean Duetsch. This senior had a taste of the Mr. Etown experience two years ago when he helped plan the dance segment for his roommate, Chris Tjaden, who was Mr. Ober at the time, and is now eager for his chance to take the stage. When not busy with school, work or Mr. Etown preparations, the selfproclaimed music and movie buff can be found writing for the Etownian’s Opinion section or playing guitar and piano at events around campus in the two-piece band that he and Tjaden formed. He also enjoys listening to artists like Katy Perry, Counting Crows and Radiohead and watching movies like his newest favorites, 50/50 and Drive. Duetsch has big plans for his performance, which, if he has his way, may or may not involve gravity-defying stunts. “Have an open mind,” he said about what viewers can expect. For the most part, he and his fellow competitors have taken to remaining tight-lipped about their parts in the show, leaving students to see for themselves what will happen on the night of the competition.

Photo: Matthew P. Butera

The Mr. Etown participants (from top left), Brian Booker, Sean Duetsch, Zak Schmidt, Frank Capria, (bottom row) David Ebsworth, Michael Anderson and Josh Riehl are prepared to give their audience their all this year at the competition (not pictured: Ryan Borzager).The College community looks forward to a promising show and a tight race.

The next competitor is Mr. Myer, Josh Riehl. The junior is nervous about the event, especially considering this will be his first time attending it. “I wasn’t even expecting to win,” he said of the initial rounds of voting that selected the participants. Riehl, who considers himself a bit of an underdog, is honored that he was chosen and hopes to live up to the audience’s expectations and keep everyone entertained. As the president of Phalanx, as well as a player on the College ice hockey and tennis teams, Riehl hopes he can use these experiences and friendships to his advantage in the competition. When not participating in these activities he is fond of spending time with his friends and family, doing anything outdoors or competitive and cheering on whatever Philadelphia sports team is playing. Representing the Schreiber Quadrangle is Riehl’s fellow Phalanx member, junior Brian “Buddy” Booker. “I take it as an honor that people voted for me and want to see me make a fool out of myself,” Booker lightheartedly said of his nomination. Unlike Riehl, Booker has copious experience with the show after being

a part of it the past two years, and finds this helpful because it gave him a chance to see what participating in the competition will be like. A fan of traveling, Booker studied abroad last semester yet somehow still manages to take on a long list of activities on campus that include Phalanx, concert choir, Students Promoting Awareness and Responsible Choices (SPARC) and guiding tours. The Steelers fan also enjoys watching Forrest Gump and Bridesmaids, listening to Lady Gaga and said his favorite food is baked potatoes, while also making a point to mention that he dislikes tomatoes, cucumbers and Cool Ranch Doritos. Booker spoke highly of his fellow Mr. Etown participants, stating, “It’ll be a really good show. With who’s in it, it’ll be a lot of fun.” The next participant is junior Michael Anderson, who will represent Founders Residence Hall. “I was a little shell-shocked,” Anderson said of his nomination as Mr. Founders, but he is eager to focus on having fun and putting on a good show for the audience. The resident assistant and tennis team member is still not completely

sure what to expect behind the scenes for the show, but is looking forward to finding out in the coming month as he prepares with his fellow competitors. In his spare time, the Atlanta Braves fan enjoys staying active by playing tennis, spending time with his friends, hiking, biking and kayaking. Next on the roster is the lone firstyear in this year’s competition, Frank Capria, who is representing Royer Residence Hall. Capria refuses to be intimidated by his age, however, and is excited for the experience, particularly because he was never granted such an opportunity in high school. “It’ll be a show they can’t forget,” he stated. Although this is Capria’s first year at Etown, he was given a taste of the competition when he met last year’s second place winner during his overnight visit while he was still only a prospective student. Capria also watched videos on YouTube of reigning Mr. Etown Dan Silver’s pop culture spoofs from his performance last year. Capria is a member of the College’s swim team and also participates in SPARC. In his free time he enjoys collecting baseball cards and listening to his favorite band, The Beatles.

Representing Ober Residence Hall is sophomore Ryan Borzager, whose primary focus is entertaining the audience. “I want to put on a good show and make everyone laugh,” he said. “Be ready to have a good time.” Borzager plays for the College’s men’s basketball team, and plans to use that to his advantage in his performance. The Nicki Minaj fan enjoys dancing in his free time and lists his favorite sports teams as the Philadelphia Phillies and the Etown men’s basketball team. The next competitor is Mr. OffCampus, David Ebsworth, who helped Dan Silver win the title of Mr. Etown last year. “I think I was more excited for Dan than he was when he won,” he said, which certainly reflects his approach to the competition. Ebsworth is highly enthusiastic about the Mr. Etown competition, and is eager to get to know the other participants. The aspiring dentist works as a peer mentor, tour guide and tutor, and takes part in intramural sports as well as Emotion. He also enjoys playing and watching sports (particularly the Baltimore Orioles and Ravens and the Washington Capitols), fishing, going to the beach, listening to country music and watching movies like Bad Boys (the original as well as the sequel), Caddyshack, Tin Cup and Black Hawk Down. Ebsworth also insists that the only right way to eat lasagna is by loading it up with sausage, green peppers and onions. Last but not least is junior Zak Schmidt, who is representing Brinser Residence Hall. Schmidt has plenty of experience making people laugh as a member of Mad Cow Improv and also played parts in his friends’ efforts as Mr. Etown competitors. While he still has over a month to plan, Schmidt has some promising general ideas for his performance and hopes readers will attend the show to see them. “Just come out and enjoy it because it’s really fun,” he said. The Dallas Cowboys fan likes playing video games and listening to Lil Wayne in his free time, but his favorite activity by far is snowboarding. With the lineup in place, preparations are underway to make this year’s Mr. Etown the best yet, and the participants are optimistic and enthusiastic about the upcoming competition. “Everyone should come and support all the guys,” Booker said. “It’ll be the time of your life.”

behind the scenes

Ceramics, sculpture studios provide creative outlet for aspiring artists Jazmin T. DeJesus Staff Writer

kilns, for bisk firing and low fire glaze. We have a larger gas kiln that we use for high fire reduction for both pottery and sculpture,”Friedly said, lthough many students at Elizabeth- “all of which have up-to-date-safety equipment.” The machinery in the studio ranges in use town College often find themselves in the Steinman Center for class, to work at the from projects for beginner to more advanced radio station, or to take part in the many tele- classes. One of the most interesting mediums vision shows, most fail to take advantage of students can work with, and take classes in, is what the first-floor art studios have to offer. bronze work. “For welding we have meg, tick There are several art classes available for stu- and stig welders which can weld steel, cast iron, dents to take, depending on what medium they aluminum, bronze and other alloys,” Friedly said. find most interesting. These include printmaking, “There are also cut-off saws, band saws, drill ceramics and sculpture. Dr. Milton Friedly, artist presses, and table saws as well.” When sculpting, whether with bronze or ceand instructor of most of these classes, was able to ramic, there is a very long and detailed process provide a lot of interesting information on what the art department has to offer. “In regards to that must be followed for a piece to be successful. With bronze, the prosculpture, there are a tocess is more intricate, as tal of about 35 students a there is a necessary waxyear taking the class and casting process to make about the same amount refractory molds for the in ceramics classes, inbronze to actually have cluding beginner, interthe desired shape. With mediate and advanced ceramics however, the classes,” Friedly said. In the ceramics stuPhoto: Vanessa L. Andrew process is simpler, due dio, there is state-of- Elizabethtown students in the Sculpture I to the fact that clay can the-art machinery that class create clay models of their classmates. be used directly. “You students can utilize for The studio, used primarily by art majors and could build it directly by either using thrower pots class. “We have electric minors, is a place for creative discovery.

or making a figure out of any material, making a mold for that out of plaster and then slip casting it with a clay slip,” Friedly said. Aside from sculpture classes, which provide the opportunity to try both ceramic and bronze work, there are also classes in printmaking. “The objective of printmaking is to be able to make more than one of the image you are working,” Friedly said. “It is not as tactile as working with a piece of clay or wax.” There are many different aspects to printmaking such as etching, a drawing class in which you use pastel resists on a plate followed by the etching, which entails moving the metal where you’ve drawn the lines thus creating a picture on the plate, as well as making coligraphs, which is a way of making a collage on a plate. Although there are only about 40 students who take these classes each year, there are usually a few students who can be found in the studio both during and after class working on their pieces. Senior Lauren Krissinger and junior Megan Kenneweg are both students who take classes in sculpture and ceramics. They are avid students in the art department and find a lot of enjoyment in taking the classes. “I like them [the sculpture and ceramics classes] because you can create anything you want,” Krissinger said. “There’s never any right or wrong answer.” An art and education major, Kenneweg

finds enjoyment in the challenges that come with the courses. “It’s very relaxed, and [Dr. Friedly] really pushes you to do your best work. It really makes you think about your artwork in other ways than you envisioned.” Both students highly recommended that more people take some of these courses. “It could definitely be a class for anyone,” Kenneweg said. “He works with you for any ability level and really knows his stuff.” Friedly is not only a teacher of these mediums, but also an active artist and sculptor himself. “I started working here in January of 1987,” Friedly said. “I’ve been a working resident artist, meaning I work on campus primarily for all these years.” All of his experience with these mediums shows in his dedication to teaching and the enjoyment he gets from sharing his passion with students. It’s clear that there are many interesting and easily attainable art courses for students to choose from that have been hidden in obscurity for too long. There are numerous classes in ceramics, sculpture and printmaking in a variety of approaches and using a variety of different materials. These classes can count as creative expression core requirements. “Art is the process of discovery,” Friedly said. “Throughout the process of making something, you’re discovering things not only about the process, but you’re learning about yourself.”

movie review

Campus Life

Tatum, McAdams deliver in “The Vow”

Modern plot twists add flavor to an old-fashioned story The movie’s plot is interesting yet suspenseful. “I liked the chemistry between the couple,” Elizabeth Rall, a sophomore occupational therapy major, said. Despite similar plots about memory loss having already been t’s a Friday night and classes are done for the week. If made, “The Vow” brings along a story of love that gives you’re in the mood for a romantic, dramatic comedy, the viewers a sense of hope for the couple. an ice cold drink and some fresh popcorn, MoviE-town However, there are some aspects of the movie that is the place to see the newly released film “The Vow.” probably could have been done better. “The movie was Rachel McAdams has come a long way since playing not as emotional as I thought. I expected more tears blonde queen bee Regina George in “Mean Girls.” She or fighting,” Rachel Fuehrer, a sophomore biology has starred in numerous films since then, including major, said. “Midnight in Paris” and “Sherlock Holmes: A Game of While the previews suggest another cliché chick flick, Shadows,” which both hit the box office in 2011. Now the movie itself strays from the traditional plot and sporting a brunette hairstyle, she stars in the 2012 film takes a different route. “The ending of the movie was “The Vow,” along with Channing Tatum. not what I expected,” Rall said. Additionally, Fortunately, this will not be the last Fuehrer felt that “the plot went fast.” of Tatum on the silver screen Tatum might be the reathis year. In addition to son behind audiences starring in “The Vow,” wanting to see the he is also going to star film. “Channing in five additional Tatum definitefilms set to be rely made the leased throughrating of the o u t t h e y e a r, movie higher Cindy Pearlman for me. What f rom t he C h igirl do esn’t cago Sun-Times like Chanconfirmed. ning Tatum?” In “ The Vow,” Fuehrer said. released this past Aside from his F r i d a y, M c A d a m s attractiveness, Taplays the role of Paige, tum plays the part of the artistic wife of Leo, a Leo very well. “Chanrecording studio artist ning Tatum did a Image: imdb.com played by Tatum. good job of showing The movie opens with Based on true events, Nicolas Sparks’ novel-turned-movie “The how much he loved a scene of Paige and Leo Vow” is turning heads because of its non-cliched approach to Rachel McAdams,” caught in a snowstorm the dramatic comedy. The highly-rated film is a great choice for Fuehrer said. students in need of stress relief who enjoy an unexpected ending and running to their car. At the end of the and an exciting plotline. As they sit in the car and movie, the audience talk about their future, a snow truck suddenly rear-ends is reminded that the story was inspired by true events their car, driving it straight into a pole. Leo survives, surrounding Kim and Krickitt Carpenter, a couple who almost unscathed, while his wife suffers serious head married in 1992. After a terrible car crash, Krickitt trauma. Paige’s injury leaves her not only with confusion, suffered amnesia and could not remember the previbut also with complete memory loss of her husband. The ous eighteen months of her life, which included her only memories Paige has are of her life prior to moving husband Kim. The story has been featured in People into the city, becoming an artist and marrying Leo. Magazine, Readers Digest, and on the Oprah Winfrey As the rest of the plot unfolds, Leo desperately tries to Show, CNN and MTV. make Paige remember that he is her husband. He takes The film’s writers did their best to maintain a realistic her to all the familiar places they used to visit and even take on the story, but despite the great plot line, it’s shows her the wedding vows that they exchanged, yet probably not the best Valentine’s Day pick. Out of five she fails to recollect any memory of him. Emotions run stars, the movie received an average of four, based on high as weeks pass and Paige is still as clueless as she the unexpected ending and the quickly-moving plot. was right after the accident. Even with its four-star rating, the story line still A college student might be frustrated if he or she is holds powerful meaning concerning marriage and the unable to remember information for a test, but forget- vows that are exchanged, which represent the promises ting a whole chapter of your life would probably cause a couple makes for the rest of their lives. While this more problems. This movie deals with the realization might not make the Valentine’s Day movie cut, it is that the brain is very fragile and one injury can make a definitely a good movie for a girls’ night out or simply person forget everything. a night out with a group of friends.

Melissa M. Dominguez Staff Writer

Etownian

The

February 16, 2012

dash o’ sass

Ask Sarah

Sarah M. Knight Illustrator

ear Sarah,

I really like this boy on my sports team, but so do two of my friends! What do I do to get him to like me and not get my friends mad?

-Confused Chick Dear Confused Chick,

hat depends. By “like” do you mean the three of you all think he is a completely compatible romantic match that makes your shins splint, or that you like to giggle over his glutes at games? If the first, there really isn’t any way to handle this situation delicately. You either have to step up to the plate/goal box/rink (depending what type of sports team this is), woo him and have your friends get miffed, or have one of them let their intentions be known first and be consumed with jealousy. (Or all of you could try and none of you could get him!) It’s important to consider their feelings but you also need to look at your own. Would you feel so guilty making out with Sportguy McGee that you wouldn’t be able to enjoy said makeouts? Chances are that’s an indication of a penalty in the friend-zone, time to huddle up with your team midfield and put him on the bench. (I should totally write for the Sports section.)

ear Sarah,

Where is the best place to study abroad considering the costs and benefits?

Sincerely, Tempted Traveler Dear Seriously Go Abroad Right Now, Seriously. I am a huge advocate of going abroad. You will hear people say that their time abroad changed their lives and that is absolutely true. I thought that was just people being dramatic until I went to Derry, Northern Ireland during the spring of my sophomore year and I can tell you that it completely made me a new, more awesome person in ways I can’t even explain, man! I think that the independence, adaptability and fresh, global perspectives you gain, no matter where you go, is one of the most worthwhile things you can do in college. I also know that it can be a struggle academically and financially. Talk to your adviser and someone in the Study Abroad office, particularly close to the same time, to find out what your schedule at Etown will have to look like to make travel possible and if there are any scholarships available to you. Many programs are just like paying Etown for a semester, and some even have stipend offers for your time there. Most of all, read up on the places you’re interested in going and dream big!

style watch

Brighten winter color palette with warm fashion choices Hannah C. Blecker Staff Writer

unior communications major Lizzie Brennan was sitting in the BSC with her coral pashmina wrapped around her head like a babushka. Originally, the contrast of her warm scarf and cool, turquoise jacket caught my eye. As a snowy mess was developing outside, I was looking for some cute winter looks, not unlike Hannah Desmond’s in a previous issue. However, that idea was quickly scrapped upon seeing what was underneath Brennan’s winter wear. Brennan’s favorite piece of the outfit (and mine as well) was her Charlotte Russe lacy skirt. It provided just the right touch of femininity and romanticism to her otherwise tough looking outfit. The black base of this ensemble allowed for the skirt to take center stage, as well as to balance out the chain necklace and knee-high boots. Something else I couldn’t ignore was Brennan’s perfectly matched nails, which she swears was a mere coincidence. The color? Sally Hensen’s “Lacy Lilac,” a spot-on description of the skirt it matches oh-so-well. When I saw senior international business and Spanish major Kristen Kilpeck walking out of the Hoover Business Center in a classic trench coat with oversized sunglasses perched on her head, I knew I need-

ed to see what was underneath it all. Being in the business department myself, I can’t deny that the thought of board rooms and office attire excites me. Kilpeck’s outfit is exactly what I picture myself wearing when I grow up: classic, tailored and way different from the suit pants and collared shirts in which I think most professional women feel trapped. The warm red of Kilpeck’s selfproclaimed Ann Taylor “power dress” is what stood out to me the most. It’s so much more versatile and exciting than black, but still appropriate for an office environment (and maybe even cocktails after a long day at work). The gathered neckline adds interest to this Kate Middleton-esque ensemble, providing even more appeal. The accessories were also perfect: simple drop pearl earrings and neutral Nine West heels. Once again, I couldn’t help but notice her perfectly manicured nails. It really makes a difference, people! This week’s winner is Stephanie Hartman, a first-year international business student from Chicago, Ill. Hartman’s outfit was the perfect example of street style. Upon talking to her about the Windy City and its style, she said people aren’t afraid to wear color there. That’s a stark contrast from the yoga pant and North Face uniform we seem to see so often here at Elizabeth-

town College! wore them because the snowstorm Finally, my open letter to the ElizaI chose Hartman as the winner developing outside mirrored the Fair bethtown menfolk. Don’t think I only this week because I felt like I found Isle print. Now, how adorable is that?! profile lovely ladies in this column; her outfit in the Nylon Style book Surprisingly, considering my preoc- that’s not it at all. It’s just that I have not my mom got me for Christmas a few cupation with all things boot, I didn’t seen a single male (who doesn’t work years back, not in the Baugher Stu- notice these DSW knee-high charmers for the Etownian) worthy of being dent Center. This is a look I would until last. And when I don’t instantly in this series. So step up your game, normally never be confident enough spot something as astonishing as these guys! Let’s try to not look homeless to try myself, but after seeing how boots, that’s how you know you’ve and maybe you’ll be lucky enough effortlessly Hartman pulled it off, I absolutely overwhelmed me with to find yourself within the folds of may have to try it! a remarkable ensemble. this publication. Oddly enough, the first thing I always notice about Hartman’s outfits is her orange Urban Outfitters backpack. Carrying a bright yellow one myself, I understand how having a school bag you love can make going to those early morning classes just a little bit easier. Now, let’s move on to her tights. They’re Hartman’s favorite part of the outfit, and essentially steal the scene combined with the cuffed denim shorts. The story behind Photos: Hannah C. Blecker them is pretty cute, (Left to right) junior Lizzie Brennan, senior Kristen Kilpeck and first-year Stephanie Hartman’s if I do say so myself. attire shines through the dull grey tones of winter. These ladies use their love for unique style Hartman said she to bring color back during a chilly day.To see the photos in color, check out www.etownian.com.

Etownian

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pinio N O

February 16, 2012

Campus Issues • Columns • Editorial • Letters to the Editor

education

commentary

Profs. consider cause of grade inflation Workplace policies create monetary strife I Craig H. Meaney Layout Editor

are professors doling out such high grades? One possible reason is that professors are now considering how students will evaluate them after the course is over. “I feel that this concern looms too large in people’s minds,” Downing said. Contrary to the idea that a “popular or perish” syndrome exists for faculty here at Etown, Downing contends that student evaluations only play a small part in how teachers are assessed by tenure and promotion boards. It also seems that Etown students play fair with their feedback. “We routinely see professors who are rigorous graders receiving very high course evaluations,” Downing said. Other professors, like Long, aren’t so sure

are only motivated by the grade stamped on their work, then they are more likely to choose the easiest assignment and less likely to explore an interest that could s your hard-earned “A” truly hard-earned? prove challenging. “I would prefer that A’s are now awarded more than ever students sought to study and learn more — especially at private colleges — and from intrinsic motivation,” Downing said. researchers Stuart Rojstaczer and ChrisI think that all teachers would agree. topher Healy have the data to prove it. Intrinsic motivation arises out of inTheir most recent research, available at terest in learning itself. In my opinion, gradeinflation.com, indicates that A’s make if professors want to motivate students up 43 percent of all letter grades given, a intrinsically, they must avoid at all costs jump of 23 percentage points from 1960. the idea that how competent students are Together, A’s and B’s account for the vast in employing the practical skills taught majority of grades at private colleges, comin class is more important than the skills ing in at a whopping 86 percent. It seems themselves. Avoiding attempts to quantify that B is now perhaps the new C. the quality of a thought is the only Good grades can’t be bad, right? way to successfully get students Wrong. If the average grade beto learn for learning’s sake. This comes a B, professors have less is not to say that assessment grade range to distinguish excepis unimportant; we must have tional work from merely adequate evaluation in order to recognize work. Dr. Jeffery Long, associate areas of weakness and improve. professor and department chair of But what is the best method for religious studies at Elizabethtown assessment? Many (myself inCollege, believes that grade inflation cluded) would argue that grades not only puts at risk the motivation are not the answer. of truly exceptional students, but “Grading and evaluating create also poses problems on a larger a culture of hypocrisy,” Long said. scale. “The biggest risk is to our “Students will do work and behave whole society, where people expect in a way that they hope will give to receive high praise for merely them a good grade and professors adequate work. The entire society will fear to be very blunt in their may strive to achieve less than it criticisms, in case the students will once did, while being surpassed by retaliate in their evaluations.” Illustration: Sarah M. Knight other countries,” Long said. Long and other critics of the Surprisingly, this trend is not new. Grade inflation is a problem that is sweeping across the current grading system suggest Grade inflation has been occurring nation. Over the past 50 years, the number of A’s given to that written and verbal feedback since 1930, with the average GPA college students has risen from 23 percent to 43 percent. should fill the role of grades. As at private institutions jumping from that evaluations do not influence grades. a student in my last year of college, I about 2.3 then to 3.2 in 2006. While Long recognizes that a correlation wholeheartedly agree. In an ideal world, Are students getting smarter? Accord- does not exist between teachers who receive academia would need no currency being to Rojstaczer and Healy, the answer is good evaluations and give good grades, he yond ideas. Grade inflation is yet another no. Research shows that student engage- maintains that some influence must exist. reason why the abolition of grades is necment, literacy and dedication to study is at “The fear of poor evaluations will certainly essary: as teachers award more A’s and B’s an all time low. R.W. Schlosser Professor of influence how a professor grades,” he said. they are diminishing the ability for truly English Dr. David Downing believes that Is this teacher-student evaluation dynamic exceptional students to be recognized. grade inflation must be considered in the healthy? Some educators, such as Long, More importantly, grade inflation shows context of a larger issue, what he might would argue that grades distort the teacher- that although letter grades are meant to encall work deflation. “In the ’60s, college student relationship because they encourage force consistency, they simply are not doing students spent about three hours studying the wrong type of motivation. so. Embracing written and verbal evaluaoutside of class for every hour of class; by Grades serve as extrinsically motivating tion will increase student engagement by the ’90s, it was down to two hours of study- factors for students; they must maintain a attaching more meaning to student work. ing outside of class, and now it is an hour certain GPA to keep a scholarship or gain Embracing a system that does not reduce or less,” he said. “It just adds to the irony entrance into graduate school. But as Long student work to a letter or number could that students are getting the highest grades pointed out, “Grades are just one factor present difficulties for graduate school apever for doing the least amount of work.” in student engagement, and definitely plicants, but to use an old cliché: nothing If student engagement is lacking, why not the most important one.” If students worth having comes easy.

The

Sound Off

What did you do for Valentine’s Day?

Compiled by Jacqueline E. Quidort

ate”

ut on a d “Took my lady o

~ Dustin Cramer ‘15 “Hung out with my roommates”

“Watched ‘Jane by Design’”

~ Jessica Potter ‘14

~ Allie Martin ‘12

Dr. Sanjay Paul Chair of Business Dept.

he air is thick with talk of employment policies. Discrimination, harassment, workplace bullying — all, we’re reminded, stuff to be avoided. Training sessions for employees are being conducted, with the College’s lawyers holding forth with unseemly relish on statutes and Title VII and suchlike. Attendance at these sessions is mandatory. And what if you don’t attend? Penalties are not mentioned explicitly, but there are rumors about Internet privileges being suspended, department chairs’ terms being extended, and other punishments too vile to name. A draft statement on standards of conduct is brought to the Faculty Assembly. It includes a long list of things that might get an employee into trouble. There is some very serious stuff, like violence, theft and destruction of property. Then there are slightly more ambiguous things. You cannot eat horseradish on campus, for instance, or carry out practical jokes. As for insubordination, why, don’t even think about it. Needless to say, the faculty have questions. Many questions. They are concerned by the sheer scope of the statement-if taken literally, the list of infractions would ensnare almost every faculty member at the College. No practical jokes? Why, that alone would be sufficient to get rid of the entire political science department. (If reports are to be believed, that is.) Homer was not concerned by any of this. He had felt for a long time that there was too much horseradish being served at the College’s dining establishments. Horseradish with this, horseradish with that. He was getting sick of the stuff. He rose to voice his complaint. “This horseradish stuff on campus has to stop,” he bellowed. “People are sick of it!” There was stunned silence in the assembly. Horseradish? The faculty asked each other — what did Homer mean? There was no mention of horseradish in the standards of conduct. It didn’t take long for someone to clear things up. “Homer,” said the president of the assembly quietly, “it’s not horseradish. The word in the statement is horseplay. There must be no horseplay by employees.” “Oh,” Homer said, before adding: “Well, I think there is too much horseplay on campus. Why, just the other day, I was kicked by a colleague. And when I said ‘Chunski, why did you do that?’, he said, ‘Oh, it’s just horseplay.’ So I am all for outlawing horseplay.” The department chairs nodded in unison. They knew how Homer felt. Kicks were par for the course. If one wasn’t kicked at least once during the day by a colleague, well, that day must have been a holiday. The conversation shifted to other things. There were extensive discussions about policies and procedures. The need to protect the College. Getting things approved by lawyers. The rights of the accused. Due process. Time sped by, and the discussion ranged ever wider. Homer offered a suggestion. “Why don’t we outsource our Policies?” he said. “Take an existing Workplace Policies from another reputed college, tailor it to our requirements, and be done with it.” “Why should we reinvent the wheel,” he thundered, “when there are several good wheels already in place?” But there were questions. Don’t these things have copyrights? Aren’t an institution’s policies intellectual property? Will we not be accused of plagiarism if we take someone else’s policies? But these are not insurmountable problems. We can acknowledge the source in our materials. We can get permission from the college that holds the copyright. We can pay that college, if necessary. Homer did a quick calculation. A hundred faculty members, each spending an hour on discussions about horseplay and stuff. At $100 per hour, the cost of faculty time came to $10,000. Pay the other college five grand, and both parties are better off. We end up with Workplace Policies that are tried and tested, while the other college earns a payment from an asset it never suspected was capable of generating an income.

letter to the editor

Professor responds to Elmhurst’s LGBT admissions article Amy K. Milligan Adjunct Professor of Religious Studies

fter reading Duc T. Dam’s “Prospective college students’ sexual orientation questioned” article in the Jan. 26, 2012 issue of the Etownian, I would like to present a few thoughts. Overall, I found the article to be supportive of the LGBT community. However, there are three points of which readers should be aware. 1. Elmhurst College asked students to voluntarily identify themselves as LGBT on admissions applications. They did not ask if students were affiliated with any LGBT clubs, such as Allies or other organizations that support the LGBT community. 2. It is important to understand the rhetorical difference that not all of t h e LG BT c om mu n it y i s g ay. T h e t wo word s are n ot s y n ony m ou s w it h

each other. Sexual preference and gender identity are not one in the same. 3. I struggle with the article’s argument that Elmhurst College is using the inclusion of this admissions question as part of their media promotion. Moreover, while I understand that some may agree that prospective students might deceive application readers through identifying as LGBT in order to receive diversity scholarships, I find this type of argument to be in line with the same ideas that continue to marginalize the LGBT community. I appreciate the comments regarding the acceptance of difference and the pursuit of greater understanding. I believe that the intent of this article is to be supportive and affirming of the LGBT community, and it is my hope that Elizabethtown College faculty and students will continue to dialog with one another to help foster a sense of equality that includes acceptance of gender identity and sexuality.

humor column

Pop culture smorgasboard serves sauciness Everyone goes “Gaga” for Blue Ivy; Brand: the one that got away Sean M. Duetsch Columnist

t i s g re at to be back writing for the Etownian this semester. But I was having trouble picking what my f irst article should be about; especially since there has been so much to talk about in the last few months. So I decided to do something a little different this week by doing a rapid fire opinion article that covers a smorgasbord of different topics. Sort of an all-you-can-think buffet of thoughts. So, without further ado, let’s eat. (Elbows off the table, grandma!) Jay-Z and Beyonce Beyonce welcomed her first child into the world in the beginning of January. It seemed like tabloids had been salivating for weeks like one of Pavlov’s dogs waiting to see what the name of the super couple’s offspring would be (And you only thought Pavlov references came from lame psych professors). And then finally they were granted their treat when the bell rang that Beyonce and Jay-Z named their baby Blue Ivy. Really? BLUE IVY? That does

not sound like a child’s name. It sounds more like an STD or a drug teenagers do at a rave. I expected way better from Beyonce and Jay-Z on this one. But I guess it really doesn’t matter what that baby is named. Either way her life is automatically going to be amazing because of who her parents are. She could be named “Toilet” or “Bagel” and still be way more successful than I will ever be. Oh and I know Beyonce’s name needs an accent at the end, but, honestly, I just don’t know how to do it on Microsoft Word. Kind of like how celebrities don’t know how to name their kids (“Oh, I see what he did there”). Celebrity Divorces It seemed like it was the holiday break of celebrity divorces. And I say that in a somber but not surprised way. No other divorce was bigger than the split between Katy Perry and Russell Brand. There were rumors that the couple was on the rocks for the longest time. Apparently Brand was not happy with the party lifestyle Perry had been leading. I mean, I don’t want to pick sides on this one, but when a recovering sex and drug addict tells you that you need to tone the partying back a little bit, I think he may have a point. Kobe Bryant and his wife finally ended, which was a divorce nine years in the making. I am not sure why they divorced, but if his sexual assault case back in ’03 wasn’t grounds for divorce, then I don’t even want to know what he did this time. Another notable divorce was Ashton

Kutcher and Demi Moore, which now really makes those Nikon commercials, where Ashton just took photos of girls, seem very realistic. Super Bowl I’m glad that the Giants won the Superbowl. Mostly because I did not want to see the Patriots win another championship. Tom Brady can already wear as many rings as Johnny Depp. Either way, we all kind of lost, because Madonna was the halftime act. Lady Gaga at Port’s?! As most of us know, Lady Gaga moved to Lititz recently (or as the NBC news refers to as Le-tits) with her significant other. Many of us are excited to have such a huge star in our area, but no one foresaw Gaga showing up to one of college students’ favorite bars in the area, Portabella’s. Allegedly, she attended Port’s Wednesday night on February first (clearly pregaming for Groundhog Day). The news that Gaga was at Port’s spread on our campus like the common cold in a day care. Honestly, it did surprise me that one of pop culture’s biggest icons was at Port’s, a place where townies and college students peacefully coexist. I am surprised people even recognized what Lady Gaga looked like. I feel like I wouldn’t be able to pick her out of a field of dinosaurs, eggs or peacocks. Either way we know she is here, so now how do we get her to come to the finest dining Elizabethtown has to

PUt your Records On On the turntable Elvis Perkins in Dearland Genre Folk

My rating Try and fail to write poetry after being inspired by Elvis Perkins. The first time I heard Elvis Perkins, it was one of those beautiful moments in the car where you yell at everyone to shut up, so you can figure out who was playing that fantastic song once it’s over. The song was “While You Were Sleeping,” and I was surprised by how it grabbed me. It was a long song, and simple-sounding— just a gentle guitar and heavy on poetic lyrics: “Full of dreams, you overslept And keeping with the quiet, through the walls I crept I walked on tiptoe, sent darkness swirling Over all the kitchen in the early morning” Perkins sings with the bittersweet melancholy of a man who’s been through a lot, yet is still hoping for better. Perkins knows all about pain, grief and tragedy. His father, actor Anthony Perkins, died from complications of AIDS in the 90s, and his mother was a passenger on one of the planes that hit the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, 2001. His first album, “Ash Wednesday,” centers on her death. The tracks are quiet, beautiful and introspective, as Perkins mournfully sorts through his jumble of

Etown Comics

by Sarah M. Knight

Ellen C.

Wilson

emotions. The songs sound like poetry put to music— great music to chill out to or with which to study. Perkins now goes by Elvis Perkins in Dearland, to include his band (they’re the “in Dearland” part). His band has contributed more to the song-making process in their self-titled second album, which was released in 2009. “Elvis Perkins in Dearland” is more upbeat than the mellower tempos of “Ash Wednesday.” It’s aided by an assortment of instruments, including horns, a clarinet and a banjo. The added instruments sharply contrast the lone guitar of “Ash Wednesday,” giving the two albums completely different feels. For instance, the track “Doomsday” is a brassy, New Orleans-style song that bounces and grooves even though the subject is, obviously, doomsday. While Perkins’ interest in life and death is still highlighted in his second album, he and his band have left the quiet, elegant sound of mourning in “Ash Wednesday” behind for a more rootsy and joyful celebration of life and all that comes with it.

Etownian

The

Opinion

February 16, 2012

Editor-in-Chief Ross M. Benincasa Managing Editor Emily M. Reigart Assistant Editor Brianna E. Wiest News Editor Huntley C. McGowan Features Editor Joseph S. Klinger Campus Life Editor Vanessa L. Andrew Opinion Editor Allison M. Rohland Sports Editor Alexis L. Morris Photography Editor Matthew P. Butera Copy Editor Elizabeth A. Enwright Layout Editor Craig H. Meaney Illustrator Sarah M. Knight Asst. News Editor Jessica L. Swank Asst. Features Editor Agnetha C. Serrame Asst. Campus Life Editor Shana M. Mihovics Asst. Opinion Editor Ellen C. Wilson Asst. Sports Editor Adam Moore Asst. Photography Editor Jacqueline E. Quidort Asst. Copy Editors Joanna P. Gruber Tara B. Hayes Marie A. Loiseau Amanda R. Shank Fact Checkers Stéfon J. Marquette Danielle M. Mitchell Business Manager Benjamin L. Frey Asst. Business Manager Amy M. Berdanier Advertising Manager Chelsea A. Benson Advertising Reps Trevor N. Bower Jennifer A. Hughes Krystal A. Talley Faculty Adviser Kelly L. Poniatowski The Etownian is the student newspaper of Elizabethtown College. All editorial decisions are made by the student editors. With the exception of editorials, opinions presented here are those of quoted sources or signed authors, not of the Etownian or the College. The Etownian is published most Thursdays during the academic year by Susquehanna Printing. Submissions to the Etownian are always welcomed. We will make every effort to print submissions, but we do not promise publication. Submit letters to EDITOR@ etown.edu.

The

10 Etownian basketball

Sports

February 16, 2012

Blue Jays knocked out of playoffs for second consecutive year Christian V. Sammartino Staff Writer

dealt the Jays a 71-58 loss, which crippled Etown’s playoff chances. Alvernia University delivered the decisive blow when they defeated pair of losses in Commonwealth Confer- Etown last Saturday 70-67, which officially ence clashes eliminated the Elizabeth- dashed their playoff dreams. “For some reason we didn’t play as ourselves town College men’s basketball team from playoff contention last week. This is the second against [Lebanon Valley]. We came out flat,” consecutive year in which the team did not Head Coach Bob Schlosser said. “We had to play from behind the whole night, and we just advance to postseason play. Last Wednesday, Lebanon Valley College weren’t ourselves. I thought [seniors] Dan Silver and Kyle McConnell had a good game. Other than that, everyone else seemed to be struggling.” The Blue Jays struggled to put points on the board against Lebanon Valley. As a team, the Jays shot 32 p ercent f rom the field in the first half. Etown tied the score four times in the first half but could not overtake the Dutchm e n . S oph o more guard Joe Photo: Matthew P. Butera Schwalm paced First-year Lee Eckert knocks down a defender in his drive to the basket. the squad with A recent loss to Alvernia has the Jays looking to next season. 12 points in the

first half, but the team still went into the locker room trailing 37-27. “We tried pressing them, and they really took advantage of that,” Schlosser said. “They got a lot of easy transition baskets which really hurt us.” On the evening, the Dutchmen scored 18 points on fast breaks and 42 points in the paint. Additionally, the Lebanon Valley backcourt duo of Joe Meehan and Danny Brooks poured in 42 of the 71 points recorded by the Dutchmen. The Etown squad was also hindered by an injury to first-year guard Phil Wenger. He injured his tailbone in the first half of the game. “He continued to play, but was not himself,” Schlosser said. McConnell and Silver provided the highlights for the Jays. McConnell drained 11 points and snagged three rebounds in 22 minutes for the Jays. Silver provided eight points and six rebounds in his 24 minutes on the hardwood. As the team prepared for the game against Alvernia, they received news which altered the complexion of the contest. Wenger was unable to play due to the injury he sustained. Schwalm, the leading scorer for the squad, did not make the trip to Alvernia due to illness. “It was one of those games where we weren’t expected to win,” Schlosser said. “[Alvernia] had beaten us at [Thompson Gymnasium] by 28 points on our home court when we had a complete roster. It was not like there was any pressure on us. I thought we played looser.” Due to the injuries, junior guard Ben Cable

got an opportunity to start. The man known as “the Cable Guy” by the Etown faithful was plugged in and did not let his team down. “We just came out fired up because we knew we had nothing to lose,” Cable said. “We weren’t expected to win, and we all definitely believed that we could, and that is what helped us come out strong.” Cable was the leading scorer in the first half with 14 points on 4-7 shooting. His performance propelled the Jays to a 31-31 tie at halftime. Play escalated in the second half and the Jays held the lead for the majority of the 20 minute period. Cable drained another 13 points in the half and finished with 27. McConnell added ten points and two assists of his own during the half. “Kyle had some big shots,” Cable said. “I think the main reason we hung with them was because of him because the confidence he showed in players who didn’t get the chance to play much, such as myself and others.” With 3:15 left in the game, Etown held a 6354 edge over Alvernia. However, the Crusaders came back and tied the game at 66 with only 44 seconds left in the game. McConnell nailed a free throw to reclaim the lead for Etown, but the Jays could not hold on to the lead. “Their leading scorer in that game drove and made a floater with about five seconds left on the clock, and that was a huge shot,” Cable said. “We actually threw the ball away on the inbounds and had to foul again, and they made two foul shots and went up three, and we couldn’t get a shot at the end.”

on campus

First draft of Strategic Plan specifies need for athletic updates Alexis L. Morris Sports Editor

he first draft of the Strategic Plan, which was released in January, brought to light several aspects of the Elizabethtown College experience that need improvement. For athletes and students interested in sports and wellness, the draft highlighted several goals related to updating athletic and fitness facilities, as well as hopes to add more sports-related majors to the College’s curriculum. Throughout the 2011 fall semester, the five different working groups for the strategic planning committee spent time interviewing students and staff and gathering data for their reports. These reports were submitted Dec. 1, 2011, and they related to five areas. Specifically, the outreach and advancement and infrastructure groups both reported on the need for renovations for Etown’s fitness and athletic facilities. The infrastructure report called for renovations to both the Body Shop and Thompson Gymnasium. Describing the Body Shop as “crowded, in need of additional equipment and unappealing,” the group supported the idea of expanding the gym’s current location or constructing a new facility, possibly at the end of the Jay Walk. Junior track athlete Jenna Niedermayer is in full support of a larger gym for students to use, especially with more equipment targeted toward cardio workouts. “It’s so hard and frustrating; we get there and have to do 45 minutes of nonimpact cardio, and all the machines are in use. You don’t want to get mad at the students trying to stay in shape, though,” she said. In addition to a revamped workout facility, the infrastructure report suggested the addition of a field house. The current indoor athletic facility, Thompson Gymnasium, is “worn out and is serving numbers of sports and student-athletes far beyond the parameters of its original design,” the report stated.

Since nearly 22 percent of the student body participates in the varsity sports program each year, the College knows that sports is a passion for many of our students and could lead to fulfilling careers. ~ Nancy Latimore The infrastructure report places the cost of a new field house around $13 million to $30 million; the size of the indoor track plays a large factor in the cost discrepancy. With this huge cost, the infrastructure report puts the field house proposal in the long-term planning category. However, athletes feel that the field house addition is necessary, despite the costs. According to Niedermayer, “It makes me laugh when we go to other schools with massive field houses with six lane indoor

tracks, tennis courts and basketball courts in the middle.” Although Niedermayer does acknowledge that Etown’s teams are still highly competitive without extensive facilities, she posed a question, “If we did have the facilities, how good could we be?” Those who are not interested in sports may find the renovation and expansion of athletic facilities less important than additions to residence halls. While providing updated and adequate housing for students is a must, the infrastructure report relayed the importance of better fitness facilities. “Admissions, in particular, noted that lack of such facilities when compared with those of our competitors, or even with those of high schools attended by prospective students, is an obstruction to effective student recruitment,” it stated. In addition to the renovation or expansion of fitness facilities, the Strategic Plan challenges the College to make “learning everywhere” a new trademark of the entire campus. With that goal in mind, the plan calls for linking learning to co-curricular activities. In order to pair higher learning with athletics, the Strategic Plan aims to “enhance the athletic program through an emphasis on ethics, leadership development and purposeful life work. Investigate new majors in sports communication, sports management, athletic training and health education.” Athletic Director Nancy Latimore confirmed that the College has held conversations about bringing such majors to the school. “Since nearly 22 percent of the student body participates in the varsity sports program each year, the College knows that sports is a passion for many of our students and could lead to fulfilling careers,” Latimore stated. Junior communications major Sam Ceron would love to see such additions to his educational experience. “A sports communication major would be beneficial to Elizabethtown because it would allow for students to

form a bond that will bring experience when potentially covering sports for bigger and more well-known networks,” he said. However, until further drafts of the Strategic Plan are finished, Latimore emphasized that all of these goals are still very tentative. The full first draft of the Strategic Plan, as well as the five working group final reports, is available at etown.edu/offices/research/ strategic-planning.

training

Sports

Athletes comment on preseason practices Alexis L. Morris Sports Editor

n Jan. 30, the spring season teams of Elizabethtown College took the field for the first time. Although the first games for these teams are not until the last week of February or the first week of March, this month of preseason practices is crucial to the teams’ success later in the season. All teams go through this period of intense practicing. Designed to tighten skills and reintroduce certain concepts, preseason practices focus heavily on the individual. While team play is obviously very important to practice as well, any coach will acknowledge that a team plays best when each player is fundamentally sound. Also, despite the offseason workouts that student-athletes are expected to complete, coaches still make conditioning a staple of these sessions. This usually entails running sprints and going through drills designed to improve agility. Several teams have two or three practices in one day or extra sessions to accommodate players seeking additional practice. For example, the volleyball team has three practices during their week of preseason — the first of which includes running a timed mile, doing agility ladders and other cardio workouts. Junior men’s lacrosse player Cory Boushell stated, “During preseason we are doing a lot of conditioning and drills to work on the fundamentals of lacrosse. Preseason is very intense for the first couple of weeks.” Elly McCarthy, a junior softball player, described her team’s

SPORTS BUZZ this week’s top sports headlines

in the NCAA... Miles Batty, a runner from Brigham Young University, set a new record for the indoor collegiate mile Feb. 11. Competing at the 2012 Millrose Games at the Armory, he ran a blistering 3:54.54. That time will send Batty to the Indoor National Championship March 8-10 in Nampa, Idaho. West Virginia University officially split from the Big East Feb. 14. The Mountaineers will play for the Big 12 in the 2012 football season. Now, only seven football-playing schools remain in the Big East for next season.

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February 16, 2012

basketball

preseason practices. “We focus mostly on logistics and small drills,” she said. “It is difficult to hit or scrimmage, as the gym is too small to do anything.” Weather plays a huge role in the preseason practices for the fall and spring season teams. The fall teams return to school a week earlier than other students do in order to practice. For the outdoor sports of soccer and field hockey, the teams practice two to three times in one day in the summer heat, which forces coaches to take precautions against dehydration. However, the spring teams are often fighting snow during the cold month of February, forcing many practices inside. Softball is one such team heavily affected by the cold temperatures, and what they can accomplish during their preseason practices is often limited. McCarthy commented on the difficulty of practicing inside during their preseason: “We practice anytime from 3:30 p.m. to midnight, and, occasionally, we go as late as 2:00 a.m., basically whenever the gym is available,” she said. “If we can get outside we try, but we usually don’t get out until spring break.” After teams start playing games on a consistent basis, practices change slightly to focus on the overall play of the team. While individual skill work and conditioning are still important, offensive plays and defensive sets are tightened up at this time. Junior volleyball player Lindsay Palm summed up the concept of preseason well, stating, “Preseason is all about working hard and having fun. We push hard through the three-a-day sessions but are rewarded with fun team-bonding activities, late nights playing volleyball and spending time together as a team.”

in the pros... New York Knicks fans are crazy for point guard Jeremy Lin, who recently led the team to a 90-87 win over Toronto Feb. 14. In the final minute of the game, Lin made a layup and free throw to tie the game, and then hit the game-winning three-pointer with .5 seconds left to play. The Knicks have now won six straight games, five of which Lin played.

in Etown athletics... Six cross country runners were named to the U. S. Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association AllAcademic list Feb. 10. Senior Eric Reichert, juniors Aaron Focht and Megan Patton, and sophomores Eileen Cody, Traci Tempone and Megan Tursi all have at least a cumulative GPA of 3.3 and finished in the top 35 at regionals.

Photo: Matthew P. Butera

Sophomore Taylor Kreider leaps toward the basket in Etown’s 55-41 win over Lycoming College.The Blue Jays have clinched a spot in the Commonwealth Conference Semifinals Tuesday, Feb. 22, with a win over Alvernia University. Etown faces its last game of the regular season against rival Messiah College Feb. 18. The last time the Blue Jays and the Falcons faced off Dec. 3, Messiah was victorious 66-49. Etown will look to topscorers Kreider, sophomore Kendra Beittel and junior Nadine Yunginger to push the team into the big dance for Head Coach Yvonne Kauffman’s last season.

swimming

Men’s, women’s relay teams earn all-conference honors Teams tally seventh, eighth place overall at Middle Atlantic Conference championship Theresa M. Forcellini Staff Writer

he Elizabethtown College men’s and women’s swim teams have had many successes throughout their current season, and it has ended on a successful note. After a long season of preparation, both teams have reason to celebrate after returning from this year’s Middle Atlantic Conference (MAC) championships this past Sunday night. The swimming competition was held in Wilkes-Barre, Pa., where teams in the NCAA Division III gathered to compete in the events. In order to qualify for the conference, members of the team must meet certain time limits for each of the designated events. The events included freestyle, butterfly, backstroke, breast stroke and individual medley (IM), each of varying lengths, and swimmers were awarded based on time and distance. Seven out of the nine members of the men’s team and twelve out of the seventeen swimmers on the women’s team attended. The Blue Jays attained a good head start on Friday, the opening day of the championship, in which the swimmers competed in the 200-yard freestyle medley and the 400-yard medley. The men’s team won sixth place in both events. The women’s team also placed sixth in the 200-yard. Swimming for the Blue Jays in this event was the relay team of junior Jennifer Malik, junior Chelsea Lorenz, sophomore Abby Mitchell and junior Erika Harold, who gained a time of 1:44.91, one of the fastest times for the Jays this year. At the end of the day, both Etown teams were in seventh place overall, with 62 points for the women and 52 points for the men. Also, both teams each gained All-MAC Second Team honors for the 200 freestyle. The following day, the women’s team eventually slipped down to eighth place with 129 points, while the men stayed in seventh place with 132 points. Albright College, Misericordia University and Widener University were still steadily competing in the top three spots, respectively. The men gained their third All-MAC Second Team honors for the 200 medley, with the relay team of men’s team captain junior Ryan Hannon, junior Shaun Martin, sophomore Michael Rentschler and junior Nathaniel VanderWerff. In addition, some of the Etown swimmers gained places in both the A and B finals on the second day. The A finalists were Mitchell, in seventh place for the 400 individual medley, and Hannon, for his time in the 100 yard backstroke. In 11th place for the 200 freestyle was sophomore Andrew Malik with his B final qualification, and Martin earned two B finals for the 100-yard breast stroke and the 400-yard IM. These finals would take place on Sunday morning. The final day of the events, the Blue Jays gained their first All-MAC honoree after Mitchell earned fourth place in her

200 butterfly. In addition, Hannon earned yet another A final for taking eighth place in the 200 back stroke. Receiving B finals on Sunday were Martin and first-year Ryan Supplee for their times in the 200 breaststroke. Also in the B finals were VanderWerff and Rentschler. In the 1650 freestyle, sophomores Kimberly Cosgrove and Megan Leppo placed sixth and seventh, respectively. More Etown swimmers made it into the B finals on Sunday, including Harold, Jennifer Malik and senior Autumn Phillips. In the end, the women left the MACs in eighth place out of ten, with a total of 205 points, and the men grabbed 190 points, good for seventh place. Albright took first for men’s and women’s teams, winning for the second year in a row, breaking a streak of wins for Widener, who took second. Out of the 19 Blue Jay

swimmers who attended, 11 gained a status of All-MAC Honorees for one or more of the events in which they participated. Hannon couldn’t be more proud of both teams. “I think both teams did exceptionally well,” he said, reflecting on the past weekend. “This year, I think, was one of our best…Our seven guys were probably the best seven we’ve taken in all of my three years.” All-MAC honoree Mitchell made quite a splash in this year’s event, gaining high honors for the weekend. She also had high praise for the turnout. “Personally, I was really happy with my swims. I was a little nervous going into the meet, but it turned out really well, and I had a lot of good times,” Mitchell said. “It wasn’t expected, and there was a lot of pressure from last year to do it again this year, so I’m glad it worked out so well.”

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Game Recaps • Previews • Commentary • Bios

wrestling

Messiah dominates Blue Jays in 41-9 victory

Injuries plague team as wrestlers finish season, prepare for championships Troy J. Donato Staff Writer

Messiah dominated, taking down the last three Etown wrestlers with pins. The team now has a week to rest up and regain strength for the Metropolitan Conferhe Elizabethtown College wrestling squad ence Championships that will be held at home has had an up-and-down record. in Thompson Gymnasium, Sunday, Feb. 26. After losing grip on a solid winning streak “Our biggest problem every year is injures, earlier in the season, Etown is out to win. and that’s how we determine if we are going Saturday, Feb. 11, the Etown wrestling team to do well each year. If the team stays healthy had a match with Etown’s number one rival, we should be fine,” Walker said. Messiah, on their home mat. Even though this season is not over yet, Despite intentions to keep their threeWalker is encouraging the team to start getmatch winning streak going, Etown failed to ting better for next year. accomplish their goal, falling to Messiah 41-9. “One of the big imEven before the start of provements that we hope the match, the Blue Jays to have for next year is were at a disadvantage. less injures; if that means With multiple injuries more workouts then we sidelining some of Etown’s might have to try that,” s t ar t i ng w re st l e rs , t h e Walker said. younger members of the Although this Saturday team felt the pressure to Etown had a tough loss perform well. to Messiah, the wrestling “Going into the match team still strives to do against Messiah, we are better in the future. already down some guys Walker always leaves so some of our younger h i s p l ay e r s w i t h on e wrestlers are going to have thought in their heads to step up,” Head Coach after every match: “Leave Eric Walker said, prior to it all on the mat.” the game. All of Etown’s fans are Unfortunately for the encouraged to come and Blue Jays, the goal was set support the Blue Jays as too high, and the inexperithey host the Metropolience of some of the younger tan Conference Chamwrestlers did show. Photo: Matthew P. Butera pionship and battle to Etown started out the day strong, leading 6-0 due Sophomore Julian Meaney pulls a move on his King’s opponent Feb. 8. With the take home the conference championship Feb. 26. to a forfeit by Messiah to regular season finished, the team prepared for their conference championships.

senior Will Bentley. With momentum on their side, Etown’s wrestlers put up a good fight but could not claim the next four matches, letting the Falcons get ahead. Messiah’s Kaleb Loht, of the 133-pound weight class and numberten wrestler in the country, succeeded against Etown sophomore Kyle McNulty. It was not long before the Blue Jay senior Quint Eno would take their next win in 165-pounds from Ricardo Plummer, taking a 9-2 decision over Messiah. Eno continues to lead the team wins with a 21-5 record. During the final three matches of the day,

preseason

Lacrosse teams set high goals Carly A. Drebit Staff Writer

Butler, along with the other captains — seniors Katie Scheurich and Anna Meerbach, and junior Etownian sports editor Alexis Morris — have iddle Atlantic Conference Champion- been keeping the spirits of the team alive. Also ship. That’s the main goal of both the watch out this season for players such as firstmen’s and women’s lacrosse teams this season. year Leigh Flounlacker, one of the team’s newest Between the coaching staff, the chemistry of attackers. “She’s bound to be a threat for other the teams and the confidence of the captains teams,” Butler said. The men’s team, which made it to the MAC this year, that goal is attainable. The women’s lacrosse team, led by Head Coach semifinals last year, is led by Head Coach Terry Mike Faith, finished last year’s season with a re- Corcoran. This will be Corcoran’s seventh seacord of 16-4, a spot in the Middle Atlantic Confer- son as head coach of the Blue Jays. In his six ence (MAC) Championship and a national rank. previous seasons he accumulated an impressive This season the Intercollegiate Women’s Lacrosse 56-38 record. This year’s captains include two of Coaches Association (IWLCA) ranked the team Corcoran’s sons, seniors Shawn and Brendan, 20th in Division III. This will be Faith’s eighth along with seniors Derek Neiheiser, Dan Patton and Brian Wenger. season as the head coach for women’s lacrosse. “The chemistry of the team is really great this “Our goal is to go undefeated in the conference, win the MACs and go to the NCAA [Na- year,” Shawn Corcoran said. “We’re all on the tional Collegiate Athletic Association] tourna- same page and going all in this year.” Even though the men’s team lost a number of ment. We want to make it into the tournament players last season, they have gained numerous and then go as far as we can go,” Faith said. While some may think being ranked 20th is talented first-years along with a few returnan honor, both Faith and the women’s captains ing players who took some time off. However, are disappointed. “That actually motivates the they still have their All-MAC First Team goalie team. We want to be in the top 10 and then Brendan Corcoran. “My brother Brendan is the heart of the eventually the top five. That 20th ranking comes with a bull’s eye on our back. Which I think is team. He is the only player that has been named First Team All Conference on our team. I believe he is the best player on our team,” Shawn said. Controlling the ball better is a main improvement the team needs to work on this season, according to Shawn. “Last year we turned over the ball too many times in close games,” he said. With Wenger and juniors Kyle Lord and Brian Boring keeping the defense in check, Neiheiser and Patton as senior midfielders and junior Photo: Matthew P. Butera Cory Boushell and first-year Senior Shawn Corcoran passes the ball to a teammate during practice. Corcoran and the other captains hoped to Derek Kline working together lead their team to a conference championship this season. on offense, this season is bound for greatness. Both teams have already played in scrima good thing because you can’t take any team mages before their regular-season games offilightly,” Faith said. “Our transition looks really great this year. cially begin. The men’s team starts their season Our attack has really come together. On defense, Feb. 25 away against Shenandoah University at we only lost one person, and they look as good 1 p.m. The women’s team is off to play their first as they did last year,” captain Emily Butler said. game at Dickinson College Feb. 21 at 3:30 p.m.

SCHEDULE OF SPORTS Men’s Basketball February 18: @ Messiah

Women’s Basketball

February 18: @ Messiah February 22: Commonwealth Conference Semifinals

Indoor Track/Field February 17: @ Susquehanna Open

Women’s Lacrosse February 21: @ Dickinson

the Etownian’s

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Nadine Yunginger

Alexis L. Morris Sports Editor

The Alvernia Crusaders could not find a way to stop Nadine Yunginger Feb. 11, as the junior guard put up an impressive 31 points in Etown’s 76-69 victory. Going 14-14 from the foul line, she is the first women’s basketball player since 2006 to hit 30 points in one game and make more than 12 free throws. With this win, Yunginger and the Blue Jays have clinched a playoff spot in the Commonwealth Conference tournament. Yunginger was also named Commonwealth Conference player of the week following this game. Photo: Matthew P. Butera

Q&A Major/Concentration: Social Work Hometown: New Holland, Pa. Favorite musician/band: Yanni Favorite athlete/sports team: Spud Webb Biggest fear: Heights In 10 years, I want to be … a married social worker mom. Favorite movie: “Stick It”

Greatest Etown accomplishment: Being a three-sport student-athlete Favorite place to visit: The Outer Banks Hardly anyone knows that ... I’m left handed. Favorite holiday: Thanksgiving Favorite Jay’s Nest item: Mozzarella sticks Greatest basketball accomplishment: Scoring 31 points. I started playing basketball at age ... seven.