The Etownian - 01-27-2011

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Textbook Thefts

New Year, New You!

News, pg. 2

Opinion, pg. 13

New Sign Rocks Astrology World

Etownian elizabethtown college

January 27, 2011• Volume 107, No. 11

Campus Life, pg. 6

One Alpha Drive • Elizabethtown, PA 17022-2298

On the Web: www.etownian.com

Carl Strikwerda named President-elect 14th President Strikwerda takes office Aug. 2011 Peter S. Northrop Assistant Editor

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n Tuesday, Jan. 4, Elizabethtown College announced that Dr. Carl J. Strikwerda will be the institution’s 14th president. This decision comes nearly a full year after current president, Dr. Theodore Long, formally announced his intention to retire at the end of the 2011 academic year. President-elect Strikwerda was selected from a pool of over 100 wellqualified candidates.

In a few opening remarks before the announcement at 10 a.m., Strikwerda stated that he was impressed by how much Etown’s residents care about the College’s sense of community.

“That’s what people respect about Etown and why they want to be a part of it,” he said.

President-elect Strikwerda said he will be spending the next few months “trying to learn everything I can.” He was at the Board of Trustees meeting earlier this month, and he plans to spend a lot of time with

senior staff members like Long and other Trustees — where they will get him fully up to speed on Etown’s most pressing issues.

liberal arts programs. Strikwerda sees Etown as an astounding liberal arts school. He had a lot of praise for Long’s leadership and accomplishments.

“I truly love undergraduate liberal arts education,” he said.

“All the ingredients of a truly great college are here,” Strikwerda said. He hopes to build on those ingredients and advance Etown further along the path Long has taken it during his 15-year tenure.

Strikwerda feels that it was his vast administrative experience that ultimately led to him becoming President-elect. He also managed a budget at William & Mary that is very close to the size of Etown’s budget and maintained a staff of around 600 faculty members.

More than anything, Strikwerda is looking to expand upon Etown’s “engaged learning” programs.

He wants to continue to grow Etown’s undergrad research, internship and study abroad opportunities.

Strikwerda also plans to attend as many student arts presentations as possible during the transition process. If there is anything he will focus on in the next six months, it will be acclimating himself with the College to ensure a smooth transition.

Strikwerda’s wife, Gail Bossenga, will also join the College community as a history scholar-in-residence, with the hope that she’ll eventually begin teaching.

Strikwerda himself hopes that he’ll be allowed to teach one course a semester as well — but it’s too early to tell if that will come to fruition or not. If he can — Strikwerda would teach a history course, as the vast majority of his academic background is in history.

“I hope each student meets me at least once.”

Dr. Carl Strikwerda President-elect Strikwerda also stated he would like to spend as much time as possible with alumni, Student Senate and the student media. He said his style of leadership is very consultative; he wants as many viewpoints from as many people as possible — so he can bring a multifaceted perspective to the College when his tenure starts Aug. 1. While nothing is set in stone yet, Strikwerda will try to employ a strategic planning process in the years to come. He said he will be accepting student e-mails and input, and he hopes to explore ideas from every member of the College community.

Strikwerda said, “I hope [students] challenge me.” He desires feedback and advice, so he can be the best ambassador for the College possible. “Good critics share their dreams,” Strikwerda explained. “I’ll do [the transition] in my own unique way.”

Strikwerda was attracted to Etown for many reasons, especially because of his experience as dean of arts and sciences at the College of William and Mary. There, Strikwerda grew to love undergraduate

Photos/Images: Matthew P. Butera, Courtesy Photos, www.facebook.com, www.atpm.com

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technology

Books vanish in Schlosser Patricia A. Cangelosi Copy Editor t least eight students in Schlosser Residence Hall have reported textbooks missing from their rooms after winter break. “It’s too coincidental,” Courtney Kelsey, the area coordinator in charge of Schlosser, said.

When first-year Octavia Miles returned to her second-floor dorm, she discovered that her $225 calculus book had disappeared from a room that was locked when she left and locked when she returned. First-year Betsy Showers had bought the same book from the College Store for $240, left it on her desk during break and came back to an empty desk.

On the third floor, sophomore Arielle Harris had placed her $220 anatomy textbook on the top shelf of her bookcase and could not find it in January. Sophomore Shannon Bono noticed on Sunday, Jan. 16, that the social work textbook on the shelf above her desk had disappeared without a trace. Though she purchased it at a discount for $40 to $50, Bono estimates the book to be worth $120. Nothing else in the room was out of place.

Same story. Each student discovered her book was gone, searched the room, called mom and dad, asked them to search the house, talked to friends (Showers vented to Miles’ roommate, and the two victims quickly realized their shared dilemma), told an RA, (most) filed a report with Campus Security, attempted to replace the book if it was needed and moved on.

Campus Security, in conjunction with the Elizabethtown Borough Police, will not move on anytime soon.

“There are some possibilities we’re looking into; we’re trying to see if there is a common thread between the rooms that were affected, and we’re trying to see who had access to the rooms,” Assistant Director of Campus Security Dale Boyer said.

“We are taking this very seriously,” Director of Residence Life Allison Bridgeman said. “It’s important to feel safe where you live and where you sleep. When that is impacted, it is very troubling.” She added that she does not recall multiple thefts of a common item going on in any building on campus before.

Kelsey agreed. “This is a difficult one — there is no real precedent for a situation like this.”

On Wednesday, Jan. 19, Schlosser RAs held a hall meeting and told residents to check for missing items in their rooms. A couple had already come forward to report the apparent thefts. It was then that Harris and Bono began to suspect they had not misplaced their books after all. Firstyear Lexy Viscardi then informed RAs that two psychology textbooks with a combined value of about $130 had vanished from her room. She and eventually seven others filed a report with Campus Security.

Kelsey said that the RAs “used it as an educative moment,” reminding residents to keep doors locked and always be aware of their surroundings.

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For Harris, it worked. She now locks her door all the time, even when she is going down the hall to shower or use the bathroom. “I don’t want anything else to get stolen. I’m being extra cautious now,” she said.

Campus Security shared files and documentation with the Borough police, and according to Bridgeman, it’s likely that a detective will soon make a visit to campus to meet with affected students and Residence Life staff. Bridgeman and Kelsey are hopeful that the responsible parties will be identified, especially with the added manpower of the Borough police. However, Schlosser residents are not so optimistic about the outcome of the investigation.

“I don’t think there’s a good chance they’ll figure out who did it,” Showers said.

Bono added, “There probably isn’t any way to track this.” She believes that whoever took the textbooks planned it out meticulously. “In a way, it’s very intelligent because no one would think a missing textbook was a huge crisis. If you walk into your room and the TV is missing, that would cause great alarm. But if you notice a book missing, your first thought is that you probably lost it.”

A sense of disillusionment hangs over some of the students affected.

“When I was looking for schools, one of the things that attracted me to Etown was that you could leave your bags on tables, you could keep your door unlocked, and you could guarantee that your stuff would be there when you got back,” Harris recalled. Now, she is far less trusting.

“You have to wonder if things like this might start to become ‘normal,’ and it’s sad,” Bono said. She pointed out that if the culprit gets away with this once, he or she is likely to do it again.

For Showers, however, the incident did not change her view of the College community. “It definitely wasn’t something I was expecting, but I know that things happen. I’ll just keep the door locked more often and make sure I watch my stuff,” she said.

If the person responsible is caught, it is not yet known what the punishment would be; Boyer explained that there are still “too many variables.”

“If they used a key to get into locked rooms, I think the punishment should be harsher,” Bridgeman said, pointing out that the books could have been taken right before or after break when the owners were out of their rooms. For her, using a key to enter a locked room seems more malicious than opening an unlocked door — though there is no excuse in either case.

Kelsey pointed out the strong possibility that whoever swiped the books intended to sell them for profit, given the high price tags of the items. “I’m not sure what the punishment would be, but I hope it’s harsh,” she said. “Hopefully, we can show that we take this seriously and this won’t happen again.

Whoever is to blame will see that this behavior is not something that’s tolerated on this campus.”

image: firstsecondbooks.com

January 27, 2010

iPad competition leaked

Andrew S. Herm Staff Writer

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n Dec. 21, Fox News released a statement claimi ng t h e y h a d o b tained illustrations of the iPad’s soonto-be competition in 2011: the HP PalmPad Hurricane. At this year’s Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, HP unveiled the tablet they hope will give Apple’s iPad a run for its money.

The PalmPad will be released with three different versions sometime in March; one of the versions, which was not displayed, is being made specifically for colleges and their students. HP intends to implement these student-friendly PalmPads for the fall the Etownian putting out the news

2011 semester. What is currently known about this PalmPad is that it will have an 8.9-inch screen with rounded edges comparable to a Kindle’s, will weigh 1.25 pounds and come equipped with an HDMI port for video and sound as well as both front and rear-cameras with LED flashes.

One perk of the custom PalmPad is that it will have access to all the school’s education s of t w are, su ch as Blackb oard or, in Elizabethtown College’s case, EC-Web, as well as any specific requests made by the institution.

The PalmPad will also utilize Sprint’s 4G WiMax network, which is currently the fastest available software for mobile data access abilities.

Throug h t he network, textbooks may be downloaded as e-books, saving a sizable amount of money for students who are forced to purchase a new batch of books each semester. This will allow students to essentially carr y ever ything they need for class in their hands, and may allow for easy management by keeping everything in one place.

WebOS 2.0 will power the system, which technolog y critics claim “just feels like a tablet operating system,” as opposed to the MacOS of the iPad, which is foremost a computer’s system.

The WebOS is already in use with Palm’s mobile phones, like the Pixi on the Sprint network.

News www.etownian.com/news

insect inconvenience

Bedbugs come crawling in Ross M. Benincasa Editor-in-chief

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he wait is over: bed bugs have finally been spotted on Elizabethtown College’s campus. On Friday, Jan. 21, Facilities Management confirmed the appearance of bed bugs within a dorm room of Ober Residence Hall. So far, the bed bugs have been isolated in the room in which the infestation originally occurred, though due to an extermination process that can often take longer than four weeks, a spread is possible.

Director of Facilities Management Joe Metro warns students to take special care when buying used clothing or staying in hotel rooms. He says that bed bugs are known travelers, so be sure to wash any clothing after it is purchased and after visiting a hotel.

If you do believe that you have contracted bed bugs in your room, Director of Residence Life Allison Bridgeman advises you to stay put. “Bed bugs are hitchhikers,” Bridgeman said. “If you go to another room, they will follow you. The best thing to do is to partner with Facilities and take precautionary measures.”

Sandy Spayd, director of Student Wellness and Campus Health, claims that the biggest issues students have with bed bugs is simply the fact that there are so many of them and that they crawl. Although bed bugs are attracted to blood, they are not known to spread disease or infection like other vermin.

Although bed bugs made their way to Etown, the College commends the victims for acting fast and allowing Facilities to isolate the problem.

Correction:

In the December 9th issue, the article titled, “Wikileaks Founder Arrested for Rape” contained an incorrect statement. Julian Assange turned himself in for alleged rape charges. The Etownian apologizes for this error.

news

January 27, 2010

odd news

the Etownian

world events

Aflockalypse, Now? Death tolls rise Brazilian floods paralyze nation “W Andrew S. Herm Staff Writer ell, conspiracy theories always keep things interesting,” first-year Jim Panacio said. The recent mass die-offs of birds and fish have conspiracy theorists riled up. Over the past month, reports of thousands of birds and tens of thousands of fish across the world have been pouring into news outlets from not only the U.S., but parts of Europe and New Zealand as well. One extreme case reported 40,000 crabs in England crawling onto the beach to die. First major reports in the U.S. began Jan. 1 from Beebe, Ark., citing 5,000 dead blackbirds. Those numbers were followed by two million dead fish in the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland. The most recent die-offs claimed over 10,000 cows and buffalo in Vietnam Jan. 21.

Many conspiracy theorists rushed to the conclusion that “the end is near,” citing the supposed impending apocalypse of 2012 predicted by ancient Mayan civilizations. Mass deaths of birds immediately after the new year in Arkansas, quickly followed by reports of more dieoffs in Louisiana and Arizona, were blamed on birds colliding with UFOs in the night sky; no explanation was given by con-

spiracy theorists in regards to the dead fish.

Scientists across the globe unwilling to agree with ancient Mayan prophecies look for a more plausible reason for the deaths: poisoning, weather changes and even disorientation could be responsible. Farmers have been known to deliberately poison large flocks of birds that prey upon their crops, and it is important to note many of the birds who have been involved in these die-offs are considered pests. Grahamme Madge, a spokesman for the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, was quoted saying, “It is intriguing that the bird[s] at the epicenter of this particular incident [are] also the most hated.”

Considering that the first reports were made Jan. 1, groups of scientists agree that disorientation due to fireworks from the previous night’s celebrations could also be the cause. Martin Fowlie of Birdlife International stated, “If they were roosting at dark, one could imagine largescale fireworks could put them up in the air and they become disorientated and they fly into something or into the ground.”

This would coincide with reports from Arkansas that the birds died from physical trauma.

Still, some reports claim that

birds were acting “drunkenly,” a symptom usually going hand-inhand with poisoning.

Elizabethtown College’s David Bowne, assistant professor of biology, shed light on this claim, explaining that it may not have been intentional poisoning on the farmers’ behalf: “Alcohol comes from a fermentation process, so any time you have large amounts of grain [on a farm], it can ferment on its own.”

Both Bowne and Fowlie said events like this happen all the time. Fowlie suggested that because the first report was made immediately after New Years, people began jumping on the bandwagon of news as they were caught up in the hype of the event. Madge agreed, stating, “What we are dealing with is separate incidents, which have different reasons. We are not undergoing a mass wipe-out of birds.” An issue that is more pressing, Bowne said, is the fact that 12 percent of birds are threatened by extinction, an issue that does not gain as much media attention as mass deaths because the population of the remaining species is too small for die-offs.

Before any scientists agree to any apocalyptic doomsday theories, Bowne included, they will reply with, “Give me the evidence.”

in the community

Terror threats hit close to home Joelle E. Atkinson Assistant Campus Life Editor

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fter the tragedy in Tuscon earlier this month, ordinary citizens are now faced with the extraordinary fear of coming under attack at any time. Americans are taught to constantly be on guard for irrational and concerning behavior and must consistently stay aware of their surroundings.

In early January, a man was arrested in Pittsburgh after conversing with individuals who were thought to produce terrorist attacks — several of which would occur on school campuses — in exchange for the release of Muslim prisoners throughout the nation.

With all of this negative behavior winding its way through our culture, the thought has often come up: what would happen if someone were to come onto the seemingly peaceful Elizabethtown College campus? How would the College function if someone shattered the white picket fence exterior that is sold as the College’s identity?

According to sophomore Betty Lai, the thought has never really crossed her mind. “I could never imagine something like that ever happening on our Etown campus because Etown always seemed so peaceful,” she said.

Senior Kortni Smith agreed. “That kind of stuff doesn’t happen in Etown. So I never really thought about it.”

First-year Brittany Hansberry echoed the students’ sentiments, but has confidence that “the situation would be handled before it escalates to a major problem.”

This is where Campus Security would step

in. Assistant Director of Campus Security Dale Boyer talked about some of the steps that Etown and Security would take, but warned, “That’s something that you can’t completely guard against because of the nature of our society.”

If Etown were to be taken under siege by a threatening individual, Boyer said that Security, along with Borough and quite possibly state policemen, would do whatever was necessary to secure the campus.

In addition, an EC Alert would go out and the building would be secured from the inside and out. “We would gather as much information as we could, and as soon as the police arrive on the scene, they would take command of the situation and we would take a secondary position,” Boyer said.

However, Boyer said he cannot give concrete information on what students should do if they find themselves in a threatening situation, such as a Virginia Tech or Colombine-style attack.

“If, hypothetical[ly], there was a situation in Nicarry, an alert would go out and it would say to stay away from Nicarry and to barricade all doors if they [students and faculty] are inside the building,” he said.

There are several other things that would be shut down, but everything else would be up to the Borough and state police officers. “The biggest thing is to not instill general paranoia, but just awareness of anything out of the ordinary,” Boyer said.

Senior Julianne Keys thinks the same way.

“I think that [this type of situation] would be terrifying but [it] would be easier to deal with as long as Campus Security utilizes EC Alerts to inform us as much as possible.”

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Michael A. McGraw Staff Writer

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he recent flood in Brazil has left nearly 1,000 people dead and countless more missing or without shelter, making it the single most devastating natural disaster in the country’s history.

It all began with a heavy rain that went on for days, causing widespread mudslides, overtaking towns in the Rio de Janeiro region and leaving them cut off from rescuers for days. The landslides began in the night and overtook countless homes while families slept, eliminating the possibility of evacuating and causing chaos throughout the region.

It has only been in the past two or three days that rescuers

Photos: 1.bp.blogspot.com

A Brazilian city becomes swamped from excessive rain.

have finally been able to reach many of the survivors and provide desperately needed aid.

With more rain on the horizon, rescuers are scrambling to locate survivors and distribute supplies in order to prevent more deaths from occurring. Brazilian President Dilma Roussef has spent $460 million for an emergency aid fund to help survivors in their time of need, and many other countries have offered their support.

In addition to Brazil’s military and emergency workers and government funding, the World Bank has promised the country $485 million to be given in installments over the next few weeks, and everyday citizens have been volunteering to help locate and shelter survivors in need of assistance. Those not directly involved in rescue efforts have Boating is the only method of transportation been sending for some cities affected by the rain. donations of food, clothing, blankets and toiletries to provide for those who will be without a home in the weeks to come.

Many Elizabethtown College students seem unaware of the flooding or do not know the extent of the damage done to Brazil.

However, once they were informed of just how bad the flooding was, students immediately believed that something should be done to help out those in need. Several had ideas as to what Etown could do in order to provide much needed aid to the victims of the natural disaster.

“I think we could set up some sort of fundraiser, such as a table in the BSC asking for students to give a dollar or so. They could charge it to their card so they won’t feel like it’s too much of a hassle,” sophomore Donnie Krause said.

“We could collect canned goods and old clothes,” Nick Thompson, also a sophomore, added.

Other students suggested that simply making people aware of the destruction could jumpstart fundraising efforts.

“We could host some kind of event, like a concert or seminar to let people know just how bad it is over there,” sophomore Kara Solesky suggested. “Even just putting up posters around campus could help people become aware of the situation.”

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January 27, 2011 town events • facts & figures• business

on campus

Darling, Kellie join forces to present unique art work lie’s current professional field, but she noted that “computers are very visual”; one can find artistic and creative fulfillment in many id you ever find inspiration aspects of life. At Etown, she atin a silverware drawer? How tended ceramics classes taught by about in a sewing box or a round Dr. Milton Friedly, who organized of Bingo? the exhibit combining her art For Susan Davitti Darling, with Darling’s; Friedly credits Dr. manager of Mail Services, and Patricia Likos Ricci with the idea.

Kathy Kellie, Information and Fabric is Kellie’s favorite maTechnology Services computing terial. She is particularly proud of her “slasher jacket,” made with seven layers of rayon, which will be featured in the exhibit.

“I like putting fabrics together until I feel the click and I know it’s right,” she said.

Threads Magazine, members of her sewing guild, and observations of what people around her wear are among Kellie’s top inspirations. She often wears the clothes she makes and creates Image: davittidarling.com clothing for her daughter as well. Twenty-two of her “Collage and Paintings” and “Art to Wear” are going to be pieces will be featured in on exhibit through March 3.

“Art to Wear,” ranging trainer, art emerges from surpris- for eight years. “I particularly from $35 to $400. Most are priced ing sources every day. The duo like making things people can between $75 and $150.

Darling recalls that when she will display examples of such art use,” she said. Some of these items tomorrow in an exhibit called include scarves, pottery, handbags and Kellie learned about the exhibit, they wanted it to be titled “Collage and Paintings” and and clothing.

Some may not detect any link “Paper and Rags,” referring to “Art to Wear” in Zug Memorial Hall’s Hess Gallery from 4 to 7 between art and computers, Kel- each artist’s canvas of choice. DarPatricia A. Cangelosi Copy Editor

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p.m. The Fine Arts division of Elizabethtown College’s Fine and Performing Arts Department will sponsor the exhibit, which will extend through March 3 and run from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. weekdays and 1 to 5 p.m. each weekend day.

Kellie, creator of the “Art to Wear” portion of the exhibit, studied art education at Penn State University and taught art

ling was an avid photographer in high school and graduated from Millersville University with a degree in commercial art.

Her past professional gigs include wine labels, calendar art and datebook art. She keeps a large collection of random objects for collages – junk Image: davittidarling.com mail, ads, maga- Susan Davitti Darling and Kathy Kellie have zine c utouts, made beautiful art out of everyday objects. silverware, tape measures, coasters from bars, perspective to the department bingo cards, even gas coupons and campus,” Friedly said. “I befrom the Great Depression. “I lieve this show will do that.” He love all kinds of stuff – anything added that the art department I can get my hands on,” Darling aims to “show work that illustrates explained. “This will be a very diverse approaches in content, fun exhibit, with something for style and media.” everybody.”

Kellie and Darling knew each About 15 of Darling’s pieces other before the exhibit was prowill be shown. Other venues have posed, but were not very familiar taken notice of her talent as well; with each other’s work. Kellie reLancaster Arts Hotel recently calls noticing and complimenting purchased five of her works for Darling on her unique earrings its permanent collection, and she and clothing. sold two pieces to Lynden Gallery Check out users.etown.edu./k/ in Etown and one at Garth Gal- kelliek/artshowsite to see Kellie’s lery in Columbia, Pa. “Art to Wear” and www.Davitti“Our mission is to exhibit art- Darling.com for Darling’s “Collage ists and works that bring a unique and Paintings.”

student health

WELL offers tips to stay healthy during cold weather Katie G. Pebley Staff Writer Tara B. Hayes Features Editor

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he only good thing about the cold weather we’re currently plagued with is that it lets us all cover up the weight we gained during the holidays. With students returning to Elizabethtown College’s campus, many are wondering how to shed those extra pounds and get healthy.

According to Sandy Spayd, director of student wellness and campus health, good health is “not just the absence of disease and illness.”

“I think the cold weather can be a cause of bad health habits because we crave warm food and drinks rather than water or healthy foods like fruits and salads,” sophomore Maddy Jackson said.

If you want to lose that holiday weight, the next time you’re in the Marketplace, opt for a salad instead of cheese fries. Grab an apple or a banana instead of a donut for breakfast in the morning. Along with that, make going to the gym a hang-out time with your friends a few times a week. Eating balanced meals will continue to keep you healthy long after you’ve lost those last pesky pounds.

Jackson, who plays lacrosse, believes that “to be healthy means taking care of your body and letting yourself achieve your full potential.”

sleep schedule. Try to get up at around the same time every weekday. If you have an 8 a.m. class on Monday and a 12:30 p.m. class on Tuesday, don’t stay up until 3 a.m.

Monday night and then get up at noon on Tuesday. Be smart about your sleep because it affects every other function in your body.

“We learned in neuroscience that sleep is crucial to learning because your brain stores memories and relearns while you are sleeping,” Jackson said.

“Also, without sleep, you will not feel energetic or happy, and everything else will seem slow and frustrating. Getting eight hours of sleep will help with a healthy lifestyle so you feel refreshed and your body and mind have time to recover.”

According to Spayd, sleep is especially Image: oliverchiropracticclinic.com A wellness wheel similar to this one can important because it gives the body time to heal itself. “If you give your body time be found on the WELL’s website. to heal, you might not get sick or you “Other tips for remaining healthy might get a lesser case,” Spayd said. involve small changes, such as changing At Etown, there are many resources one thing in a meal to a healthier option, students can use to become or remain taking the stairs instead of the elevator, healthy. In addition to free-swim hours parking far from the store, walking to in the pool, the Body Shop is open close places, being active while you watch daily. The WELL, sponsored by Health TV, etc,” Jackson said.

Services, is provided on campus and You should also maintain a regular online for the overall health of students

and covers six aspects of personal wellbeing: physical, intellectual, emotional, social, career and spiritual.

For your physical health, the WELL suggests that you maintain an active lifestyle. Get involved in a sport you enjoy, whether it is an official team for the College, an intramural or just a game in the Dell with your friends. A social outing doesn’t always have to involve junk food, at least not all the time.

The WELL also suggests that you abstain from the overconsumption of alcohol and tobacco.

“In my opinion, the five most important things any of us can do to be healthy, and feel good both physically and emotionally are get a reasonable amount of sleep; exercise, even if it’s simply a walk around the perimeter of the campus or around Lake Placida,” director of athletics Nancy Latimore said. “Eat breakfast, even if it’s only a breakfast bar or piece of fruit; make good food choices at meals, and spend time with or talk with family and friends every day.”

For more information on how to stay healthy through the spring semester, visit the WELL’s website at www2.etown.edu/ thewell or visit its location in the BSC near the pool.

features

January 27, 2011

the Etownian

presidential profile

5

Strikwerda, Bossenga expect new, close relationships Tara B. Hayes Features Editor

T

he night before Dr. Carl James Strikwerda found out he would be Elizabethtown College’s next president, he took a walk around the campus. Even though he had not yet been named President-elect, Strikwerda already felt a strong bond with the College.

His connection to the community comes from his shared beliefs with the College, as “integrity, being true to yourself and living up to your values, which includes admitting when you’re wrong” are important to Strikwerda.

Born on August 23, 1952, in Grand Rapids, Mich., Strikwerda met his wife, Gail Bossenga, during their first year at Calvin College. They were both history majors and were lucky enough to obtain jobs at The College of William & Mary.

The best advice Strikwerda

was given during his college “He’s the kind of person He enjoys helping to make experience was to never stop who wants to make a differ- things happen.”

During his free time, Strikwlearning, which he hopes to con- ence. He wants the institution tinue throughout his lifetime. of Elizabethtown College to erda enjoys reading, exercising His other goals include being be able to continue to make and spending time with his the best President of Etown he a difference in the lives of family, especially while hiking in can be. students,” Bossenga said. “He the woods. His wife loves to read Strikwerda and Bossenga likes to help people accomplish and garden and looks forward have two children, a son and what they want to accomplish. to spending time in the High Library as well as the a d au g ht e r, w h o gardens that cover share their interest the College’s campus. in history.

So far, Strikw“My d a u g h t e r erda’s biggest acis one of the most complishment is his thoughtful and comsuccess as dean of passionate people arts and science at I have ever met,” William & Mary “beSt r i kwe rd a s ai d. cause it’s a very, very “My son, he is truly demanding job and a unique person.” there were a lot of Strikwerda dechallenges in terms scribes himself as of a very tight buda serious p ers on get, and yet I accomwho enjoys people and multitasking.

Courtesy of Elizabethtown College plished a lot while I He also “like[s] a President-Elect Strikwerda and his wife, Gail was dean.”

Strikwerda hopes lot of activity, but Bossenga with current Elizabethtown president [doesn’t] mind be- Theodore Long and his wife, Betty Long, at the to have a close represidential announcement. lationship with stuing alone.”

dents by providing many opportunities to spend time with them. Bossenga and he both hope to teach a course, if their schedules allow. “I look forward to meeting the students in student government and involved in student journalism, and then I hope to meet a lot of students informally,” Strikwerda said.

In addition to a close relationship with the students, Strikwerda hopes to have the same relationship with faculty and staff.

“Whereas Carl likes to be in charge of things and organize things and have that public role, I like to be a little bit more private, I would say, and I like to get to know people but in smaller groups,” Bossenga said.

“I’m tremendously excited to be the next president of Elizabethtown College, and it’s an honor to follow Ted Long,” Strikwerda said. “I hope to meet every single [student] if I can.”

service groups

Travels over winter break make for lasting memories Andrew S. Herm Staff Writer

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hile most Elizabethtown College students were home or visiting family over break, a small group of students and members of the faculty and staff participated in three school-sponsored trips. Two service trips in conjunction with Habitat for Humanity and Lend A Hand were sent to Honduras and Immokalee, Fla., respectively, and both the women’s and men’s swim teams traveled to Mayagüez, Puerto Rico. Whether the groups were responsible for building houses from scratch, helping with hurricane relief or practicing for competition, memories were made, and lasting impressions are left on the minds of all involved.

Senior Steve DiGrazia recalled purchasing a cake from girls working at an orphanage in Honduras: “I couldn’t believe it only cost me $15!” DiGrazia is one of ten students and eight faculty members who helped build houses by hand for nine days in conjunction with Habitat for Humanity. DiGrazia said, “There were no machines; everything was done by hands and tools,” After construction was finished, the group visited the all-girls orphanage, where the orphans worked throughout the day learning to sew and bake.

“We noticed every girl was wearing Crocs, so we went through the whole city buying every pair we could find,

Courtesy Photo

A parrot perches on a branch in Puerto Rico, where one student recalled, “animals just sort of ran free.”

first-year orientation such as “fruit basket” and “mafia” were popular choices for junior Kelsie LeVan’s group.

LeVan stated, “Lifelong friendships were made,” not only with fellow Etown classmates, but also with the group of students from Shippensburg University.

In Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, the Etown swim teams practiced with 38 other colleges. Two practices a day were held at the outdoor swimming pool at the University of Mayagüez, which hosted the Olympics-esque Pan-Caribbean games. Sophomore Jenny Malik said that “being able to swim outdoors in the sun” was one of the more memorable experiences of the trip.

Aside from a grueling practice schedule, the teams were able to venture through the town’s square, which was still decorated for Christmas; “little Christmas” is celebrated Jan. 6 in Puerto Rico. Between admiring Spanish Christmas carols and Christmas lights, the team took trips to the local zoo, where Malik says, “animals just sort of ran free.” Both the men’s and women’s team enjoyed a trip to the local beach. Senior captain Ryan Hannon said the entire trip was “great for team bonding,” as roommates were mixed between years and skill levels.

All three trips were considered great successes by those involved, and the students brought back memories to Etown from all over the world.

as well as bubbles and coloring supplies,” DiGrazia said.

One thing that stuck with DiGrazia about the trip was the genuine appreciative nature of both the locals for whom the houses were built and of the girls after receiving their gifts. “[The girls] couldn’t believe that I would give them $15 for a cake,” he said.

Students on the service trip to Florida were responsible for repairing houses damaged by the slew of hurricanes that came through in 2005. Junior Lorin Mellinger remarked, “This was my third year on the trip, and it was by far the best year as a group.” Students were organized into working teams, which then split up to work on damaged houses or to organize the warehouse where their supplies were kept. During the evenings, groupCourtesy Photo bonding activities were a common Habitat For Humanity gets to work in Honduras. pastime. Games reminiscent of Lend A Hand helps out in Immokalee, Fla.

Courtesy Photo

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campus life

the Etownian

movies • music • television • humor • travel

January 27, 2011

lifestyles • arts • advice • college issues

astrology

Zodiac: What’s your sign?

Capricorn- Jan. 20- Feb. 16 Kelly J. Clayton Staff Writer

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ccording to astronomer Paul Kunkle, 21-year-old countr y pop singer/superstar Taylor Swift is no longer a Sagittarius. Astrology.com describes Sagittarii as always hunting for more ideas and experiences. They love adventure, travel and philosophy.

Since I don’t know Taylor Swift on a personal level, it is hard to tell how well she matched her former Sagittarius horoscope, but the teen sensation now falls under the most recent zodiac sign, Ophiuchus.

In the beginning of January, Kunkle, from Minneapolis Community and Technical College, said in an interview with the Minneapolis Star Tribune that the position of the sun in relation to the constellations has changed over time; therefore, the zodiac signs have changed. Those born from Nov. 30 through Dec. 17 are now following the 13th sign: Ophiuchus. Many people are confused about this and don’t understand how a new sign can be possible. Also, it is understood that since Ophiuchus is the 13th sign and 13 is deemed an unlucky number, that zodiac is destined for evil and turmoil. Who is Ophiuchus and what does he symbolize?

Ophiuchus (Ooh-FEE-yewkus) means the “Serpent Bearer.” Drawings of him show a muscular man holding a large snake toward the sky. Ideas that characterize Ophiuchus

include: the interpreter of dreams, good luck and fruitful blessings, lofty ideals, and a seeker of peace and harmony. Those who fall under the Ophiuchus sign are supposedly inventive in nature with expanding qualities, meaning they are more creative. They will seek higher education and wisdom so they can supervise in the workplace. In addition, they will rise to fame, which can be either grand or misunderstood. Lastly, they enjoy longevity and want to heal the ill. From this description, it can be agreed that Taylor Swift fits at least one of the Ophiuchus personality traits: fame. But where has Ophiuchus been hiding? What makes this year different from other years for the zodiac?

According to Dr. Amy Simes, who teaches the course Myth, Magic and Religion, “There is not a new zodiac sign. The 13th sign of Ophiuchus has always been there, right between Libra and Scorpio. Only part of the constellation of Ophiuchus actually dips into the solar ecliptic, so there has always been debate about whether to include the sign or not.”

Simes explained, “back in Babylonian times when the signs of the zodiac were established, sometime between 1000 and 500 B.C., the sign of Aries was rising in the east at the vernal (Spring) equinox. This is how Aries came to be established as the first sign of the zodiac. The spring equinox marked the beginning

of the agricultural year in the northern hemisphere.”

Simes, who has been studying the zodiac for over 35 years, said that here in the United States we follow the tropical zodiac, which is based on the movement of the sun through the seasons. The movement is the path of the sun from the Tropic of Cancer to the Tropic of Capricorn and back.

Since the Earth wobbles like a spinning top, what has happened most recently is that the Earth has wobbled back about 20 to 25 degrees. In the Star Tribune article where Kunkle made his claim for the 13th sign, he said that the moon’s gravitational pull has made the Earth wobble around its axis in a process called precession, creating a one-month bump in the stars’ alignment. This would mean that when astrologers say that the sun is in Pisces, it is really not in Pisces. Simes, however, emphasized that the zodiac signs are not changing.

“It is a very intuitive system, which is why people who had always thought they were one sign were very disturbed to be told that they were actually another sign,” she said. “Even though astrology is based in astronomy and physics, it is an esoteric, meaning, confidential system that speaks to the deeper meanings of our existence on a personal level.”

If you are upset because you have a Sagitarius tattoo on your arm and are now apparently a Ophiuchus, don’t worry, it seems that this new zodiac isn’t actually anything new.

Aquarius- Feb. 16- March 11

Pisces - March 11 - April 18

Aries - April 18 - May 13

Taurus - May 13 - June 21

Gemini - June 21 - July 20

Cancer - July 20 - Aug. 10

Leo - Aug. 10 - Sept. 16

Sagittarius - Dec. 17 - Jan. 20

Ophiuchus Nov. 29 Dec. 17

Images: www.suberic.net, www.spacetelescope.com, thirtyhood.blogspot.com

Scorpio - Nov. 23 Libra- Oct. 30- Virgo - Sept. 16 - Nov. 29 Nov. 23 Oct. 30

January 27, 2011

campus life

the Etownian

exercise

Compiled by Campus Security and Melanie R. Giardina Campus Life Editor

Workout without heading to the gym Joelle E. Atkinson Assistant Campus Life Editor

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t’s that crucial time of year. It isn’t even the end of January, and our wills are being tested and our appetites are suppressed. No, finals haven’t started yet and it’s not about fitting into our Junior/Senior dresses. But as January comes to a close, several of us have already forgotten about those pesky new year’s resolutions.

The most popular one of all time: the goal to lose weight. It doesn’t matter if it’s five, 10 or 50 pounds, we have made that crucial resolution. So we jump on the treadmill and eat our SlimFast bars, hoping for the best. And though it is still early in the year, many of us have already fallen off the rotating belt and lost the battle of the bulge.

But what if there was another way to beat the trend? A new, fun way to stay motivated throughout the semester as classes and homework begin to stress everyone out, and that ice cream machine in the Marketplace is once again our best friend? Here are some fun ways to stay on track, while trying something new and different.

ExerciseTV and Exercise DVDs While this may seem old school and slightly less than ideal in a small dorm room, consider this – it’s cold outside and the Body Shop and Etown Fitness are just a little bit too far away. You see your computer sitting right in front of you. You go to Hulu.com, look up ExerciseTV, and there are over 100 free routines sitting right at your fingertips. ExerciseTV posts ever ything from Pilates t o w e i g ht training. It even has a Bollywood dancing worko u t ! If y o u’re

browsing through Kmart and the newest Jillian Michaels’ workout DVD catches your eye, it may be beneficial to pick it up. This one-time purchase will save endless cold and snowy walks, and most routines can be done in a small space (such as the floor of a dorm room). All that you’ll need is sneakers, and you’re good to go!

E-fit and Bootcamp: If you’re feeling adventurous and anxious to get off campus, head over to Etown Fitness. There are classes for all strengths and weaknesses. Find your inner salsa queen by taking up some Zumba (offered every day) or channel your inner Arnold Schwarzenegger with body building classes such as Body Pump and Butts and Guts. If you’re just looking for a regular workout, head over to the fitness center for a cardio circuit. They have double the machines as the Body Shop, and it’s a chance to clear both your mind and body of stress you may have at Etown. Senior Maria Dziechowicz has been an active participant in several of the classes this semester. “I enjoy working out at Etown Fitness. It gives me an opportunity to take a break from schoolwork and Etown and the classes are intense, but fun as well,” she said.

On campus experiences: If all else fails, there are several everyday things that everyone can do to burn calories. “I once had a friend who lost a lot of weight by running up and down stairs for 20 minutes every night,” senior Kelsea Corrado said. Other ordinary things that you can do? Sucking in your tummy and tucking in your bottom while sitting in class, holding your glass instead of putting it on the table, and taking the steps instead of the elevator are all commonly overlooked calorie burners.

With the right diet and a few tips and tricks, every student can avoid the winter weight slump and stay true to their new year’s resolutions.

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• Over break several textbooks were reportedly stolen from Schlosser Residence Hall. See page 2 for more information.

• On Jan. 19, Campus Security responded to a parent’s request to locate their son after he had failed to contact them. Officers located the student and reminded him to send his parents an e-mail.

• That same day an RA reported that a bench on the patio of Brinser had been vandalized. The seat and an arm had been broken. Campus Security has no leads on the culprit.

• A student contacted Campus Security on Jan. 22 to report vomit in a Myer bathroom on the third floor. EMS was called to clean up the mess.

• On Jan. 23, while talking to a student about an unrelated incident, officers observed alcohol in the student’s room. The student was underage, and, in addition to the alcohol violation, he was cited for having a gerbil in his room.

• A student’s vehicle was hit on Jan. 23. in the Schlosser loop. The car was dented and scratched, and the passenger side mirror was hanging down its side. There are currently no suspects.

•

Dale’s Parking tip of the week: As it is the start of a new semester, students should make sure their cars are registered. They should also make note of where to legally park.

on campus

Scouting University: Youth to attend 8th annual event Melanie R. Giardina Campus Life Editor

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lizabethtown College is about to be taken over by the troops! This Saturday, the College will welcome between 500 and 600 Boy and Girl Scouts for the 8th annual Scouting University. Scouting University, otherwise known as Scouting U, is an entirely student-run program hosted by Students in Free Enterprise.

Boy and Girl Scouts ranging in age from 11 to 17 will participate in Saturday’s events to receive two merit badges of their choice. Programs vary from first aid and self-defense, to arts and crafts and ethics topics. Junior Cassie Savitz, Scouting U’s public relations coordinator, notes that badges for citizenship in the world, nation and community are some of the most popular badges Scouts are choosing to complete.

Each class

will be led by two students, a counselor and an assistant counselor. According to Savitz, this year there are over 100 students participating in the event. “Scouting U [will] give me more experience working with children and planning and implementing lessons,” junior Amanda Vaine said.

Students participating in Scouting U must create a lesson plan prior to the event and also attend training.

Vaine and her partner focused on creating a lesson plan that would meet badge requirements while still entertaining the Scouts.

Though students organize the event, faculty and staff members are also involved in making the day a success.

According to junior Katie Evans, Scouting U program coordinator, the education department has helped students with their lesson plans, while Executive Director of ITS Ron Heasley has developed a class about using technology in Scouting programs for the parents. To Evans, the program holds a personal meaning; “I was never able to [be part] of a Girl Scout Troop myself. I was only ever able to help my sister in earning her badges.” As for Savitz, her involvement in Scouting U has grown over the past three years. “I did it freshman year as a volunteer and enjoyed it so much that I became a counselor, and now PR,” she said.

Not only are Scouts expected to be prepared for their individual badges, but Scouting U also offers two other programs for Scouts to participate in: Let’s Can Hunger and Scouts for the Planet. Let’s Can Hunger supports the poor in the community– Scouts bring canned and packaged foods to donate to local food banks. While Scouts

for the Planet is new to Scouting U this year, the program encourages attendees to bring ink cartridges, CDs and glasses to be recycled.

Furthermore, this year parents can attend sessions designed for them throughout the day. Evans noticed last year that parents either attended sessions with their children or simply waited out the day in the Blue Bean.

Providing sessions for the parents gives them something to do during the day and a chance to interact with other parents from different regions.

Scouts have to do much more than just sign up and attend the event. They must complete requirements prior to attending their three-and-a-half-hour sessions. According to Scouting U’s website, www2.etown.edu/sife/ scoutinguniversity, each badge has different prerequisites for Scouts to complete before arriving on campus.

This year, participants will also hear from keynote speaker Doug Dirks from Ten Thousand Villages. According to the website, TenThousandVillages.com, the non-profit organization sells items made by artists all over the world to provide an income for people in developing countries. The organization sells everything from clothes to personal care items. With the assistance from Ten Thousand Villages, people all over the globe are able to afford food, education and healthcare.

Evans described the work she puts into the project as “endless but priceless.” Scouting University works not only to hand out badges but to educate young adults on how to better serve their communities on a local to global level.

Images: www.staminaproducts.com, kilbadger.webs.com

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the Etownian

campus life

January 27, 2011

January 27, 2011

campus life

the Etownian

9

10

the Etownian

campus life

Janurary 27, 2011

celebrity dish

Razzie nominations revealed as Oscar buzz increases Joelle E. Atkinson Assistant Campus Life Editor

s the Grammys and Oscars approach, and the Golden Globes have come and gone, Hol ly wo o d is now i n the midst of award show season. While celebrities such as Natalie Portman and James Franco, and movies like “The Social Network,” are receiving high praise, there are other actors and actresses that critics have panned since their

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films were released. This is where the Razzie Awards come into play.

Movies such as “Gigli” “Jersey Girl” and “Glitter” have infamously earned Razzie nominations, and Hollywood heavyweights Halle Berry and Sandra Bullock have each been present to receive their lessthan-desirable, $5, spray-painted trophy at the award ceremony, which is held the day before the Academy Awards. Bullock, who even gave an acceptance speech in response to her 2010 movie, “All About Steve,” won an Oscar the following day for her performance in the football biopic “The Blind Side.”

This year’s nominees include a mixture of sequels, 3D explosions and the ever popular vampire phenomenon. Here are the biggest losers among film and television in the past year.

Jennifer Aniston: Many people wonder, why America is so fascinated with Jennifer Aniston’s social life, yet we don’t see her movies? America’s favorite “Friend” seems to be losing at the box office, big time. But maybe it’s because her movies just aren’t very good. Nominated for both “The Switch” and “The Bounty Hunter,” Aniston seems to be a fading star on the silver screen.

Jessica Alba: I don’t think I’ve ever seen one actor or actress nominated for so many terrible movies over the past year.

In an interview with Cosmopolitan earlier this year, Alba said she wanted to up her box-office revenue by appearing in more quality movie productions, even if her starring roles are compromised. Not only is she further down in the credits now, but with four movies landing her on the Worst Supporting Actress list (“The Killer Inside Me,” “Little Fockers,” “Machete” and “Valentine’s Day”), maybe she needs to rethink her strategy one more time.

“Sex and the City 2”: Nominated for several awards including Worst Picture, Worst Actress (for all four actresses, Sarah Jessica Parker, Kim Cattrall, Kristin Davis and Cynthia Nixon), Worst Ensemble and Worst Sequel/Prequel/ Remake Ripoff, the series that women have come to love and admire has now lost credibility. Though viewers watched for years as these four women went through the ups and downs of adulthood, the American attention span is just too short – and the multiple nominations is proof of that.

“The Last Airbender”: Tied with “Sex and the City 2,” for the film with the most award nominations for this year with nine Razzie nods is “The Last Airbender.” Written and directed by M. Night Shyamalan, it clearly was not his best work. The storyline of a young avatar trying to save his nation was

confusing, and ultimately fell flat. At the same time, the 3D effects were overwhelming, leading to an unfortunate waste of money.

“Valentine’s Day”: Though the cuteness factor of the movie was off the charts, the acting was less than thrilling. And with so many Hollywood hotshots vying for a spot in the picture, the overall performances were less than enthralling. Though no one actor was nominated on their own for this movie, Taylor Lautner, Ashton Kutcher, George Lopez and Jessica Alba earned multiple nominations in other movies which ultimately led to the nomination of the cast members.

“Twilight,” and “Vampires Suck”: Who knew that one of the highest grossing movies of the year and one of the lowest grossing movies of the year would wind up on similar nomination lists. “Twilight Saga: Eclipse” earned several nominations, including, but not limited to, worst acting nominations for all three of its leads. Though we love to see Taylor Lautner’s abs, clearly, his acting is not as praiseworthy. Additionally, its satirical counterpart, “Vampires Suck,” earned several nominations as well, including two in the same category.

And that’s your Celebrity Dish!

career services

e⁴: be ready for the real world Kristen N. Lacaillade Staff Writer

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xplore. Envision. Experience. Enact.

These are the four traits emphasized through Elizabethtown College’s Career Services’ new program e⁴. The initiative is described on the Career Services portion of the website as being, “designed to facilitate full-time, undergraduate students define what having a career with purpose means to them and to help students develop the skills and strategies needed to reach their goals.”

By participating in this program, students gain knowledge and learn many vital skills that they are able to take with them into the professional world.

Through e⁴, students are given the ability to focus on who they are as individuals, enhance their career decision making skills and confirm their career direction; they also recieve the tools to turn their dreams into reality. “E⁴ is designed so that all students can participate regardless of their level of career development, but it is hoped that this will help students to intentionally focus on career and life choices early in their education,” Director of Career Service Jane Nini said.

College students are often haunted by the intimidating question, “What am I going to do once I graduate?” E⁴ is here to help.

Members of Career Services have thought of every way possible to make the transition from college to the “real world” a seamless one. The project offers many beneficial programs, activities and experiences that give Etown students ways to learn, network and gain exposure within their chosen majors and fields of study.

The time between the end of sophomore year and beginning of junior year of college tends to hit students hard. Through e⁴, students are given an outlet to discover where their lives will take them and to understand how each decision they make can help lead them to their ultimate goals. The first step in the program is to “Explore, which allows students to identify strengths, challenges, skills, values, and the role of work in one’s life. In this way, students are introduced to who they may become and what they hope to achieve. Second, students are encouraged to “Envision,” to clarify career options and the steps that need to be taken to reach goals. “Experience” is the next step in the e⁴ program, where students can prepare for and gain experience related to their career fields.

Finally, students are encouraged to “Enact., at which time participants are able to apply the skills and knowledge they have gained to implement post-graduate plans.

As far as the development of the program, e⁴ was a long time coming. Etown never had a program quite like this before, and Nini explained, “the program is a result of input from faculty, staff, senior staff and students.” Career Services recognized the need for a program to give students the tools and skills to help them progress through their education and beyond. Many ideas and were taken into consideration, and the opinions of students, staff and faculty were all combined into one. E⁴ offers the campus community numerous outlets to gain the experience and knowledge they crave, so everyone is encouraged to take advantage of this beneficial outlet that connects students to the working world.

Image: www.filmofilia.com

January 27, 2011

opinion

campus controversies • letters to the editor

the Etownian

11

national debate • our take • guest columns

things my mother taught me

New year, new you? Hopeful resolutions gone astray

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Action-news.org

or some of us out t he re, atte mpt i ng to keep a New Year’s resolution is about as difficult as naming the Courtesy photo last good Nicolas Cage movie (hint: there are none). Perhaps it’s because we lack a certain amount of gumption in this country that people don’t work as hard to achieve their goals. Or maybe it’s because we’re just lazy college students. Who knows? What I do know is that if you are going to make a resolution, at least make one that counts for something. For instance, if your New Year’s resolution was to recycle more, then that’s great. I’ll call you the Jolly Green Giant. On the other hand, if your resolution was to become Justin Bieber’s greatest fan, well, we’re going to have a problem.

So how does s ome one k now i f they’ve chosen a — more often than not – “fake” resolution?

For tunately for you, through many hours of research, sweat, blood and tears, I’ve compiled a list of the top three least kept New Year’s Resolutions. Hopefully none of your resolutions have made it on to this list, but if they have, there’s always a chance you could prove me wrong. I mean, it’s a slim chance, but why not try?

Resolution #3: “I’m gonna like, definitely cut down on drinking this year.”

Sometimes I wonder if people are drunk when they make this resolution, because I tend to find that the only people resoling to cut down on the boozin’ are the most belligerent drunken asses. It’s too bad, really; if more people kept this one, maybe Ober could go a whole year without having to replace furniture, sinks, soap dispensers, etc. I never understood that. What possesses drunken people to wreak complete and utter havoc on innocent objects like soap dispensers or wooden chairs? What could have possibly occurred to convince some apparent

hater of cleanliness to literally rip the dispenser off the wall? Unfortunately for Facilities, and the rest of us, this resolution tends not to stick come the nice weather. The problem is, there’s always an excuse to celebrate, whether it’s for Junior/Senior, TGIS, Spring Break, or your parent finally being released from prison. Whatever the reason may be, don’t count on many people keeping this one, but hey, at least it keeps the Campus Security Blotter interesting.

Resolution #2: “This is the year. I’m finally going to start working out. I mean it guys.”

I’ll admit that I had a hard time putting this on the list, for I myself have committed to working out more this semester. So why’s it on here? Go take a walk down to the Body Shop in January, then take that same walk again in March. What’s going on? A ghost town, that’s what. People always seem to forget just how hard working out can be.

As I said before, I’ve committed to working out this year, and just the other day I ventured over to Etown Fitness for a Zumba class.

I know some of you may snicker at the idea of dancing with 30 other 40+ women and consider that exercise, but believe me when I say that Zumba is no joke. Not only can you burn 500-800 calories an hour, but you can also feel the soul-crushing shame of knowing that the 40+ women you thought would be winded by the third or fourth song are literally just kicking your ass all over the dance floor. I didn’t think it was even humanly possible for me to sweat as much as I did. Yet that’s the exact reason why most people don’t keep this resolution: it’s just too damn hard (although, when you think about it, trying to breathe after your eighth cheeseburger from McDonald’s is likely to be just as challenging). I do hope that more people keep this resolution, but with waistbands expanding and a Happy Meal containing more grease and oil than a 15-year-old boy, it’s not looking too good for us. (When it comes to me, you walk down to that gym any ol’ time for a visit. I’ll be the one throwing up in the trashcan after running on the treadmill.)

Spinsucks.com

Kate M. Walsh Humor Columnist

Resolution #1: “I like, really need to stay focused this semester, ya know?”

Ah, yes. The promise of becoming more organized, of really staying on top of your work, of planning ahead: we’re all guilty of this one. Every semester, it’s always the same: You show up to your first class, all giddy like (you guessed it) a school girl, and you’re handed the syllabus. You’re scanning the work load, daydreaming of the nights when you’ll finish your work in some sort of bravado fashion as everyone else suffers beneath your awesome genius, when you fall upon the words: PAPER DUE MAY 1. Go ahead and kiss that sweet dream goodbye. I like to think of procrastination in terms of a magazine subscription. Sure, you’ll sign up to receive issues of Cosmopolitan, but then all of a sudden Good Housekeeping winds up on your doorstep and you know you should call the 1-800 number but you get distracted by Lady GaGa on the cover of Entertainment Weekly, and before you know it, you’re swimming in Golf Digest, Working Mother and AARP. The point is, procrastination can get the better of you before you even realize it. So even though you have all semester to write your one paper for your two-credit class, you, me and practically every other college student will be up at 4 a.m. on April 30 with five empty cans of Red Bull scattered around the room and only three pages written of the 20 that were assigned.

So there they are. Hopefully yours didn’t make the list, but if it did, there’s no shame in knowing you gave it your best shot. At least there’s always next year… oh wait, next year’s 2012. Well, nevermind.

sexual satire

Romance columnist returns from land down under Samantha T. Phillips Opinion Editor

will also attempt to shed light on aspects of romance with a bit more sensitivity to those who do not condone my satirical sarcasm. No promises, though. For those of you who don’t know me, allow me to introduce myself. Cue the dramatic orchesove is a complicated and lonely business. I know during my time abroad in tral symphony and parade of acrobatic porn stars riding elephants. I am Samantha Australia (where I conducted important and scholarly research for this impor- Therese Phillips, controversial romance columnist and loyal Etown senior. I am here tant and scholarly column) that you’ve been lost and alone in as your humble servant: to poke fun at the shethe labors of love. My heart weeps at the thought of my dear nanigans that occur in the college dating world, readers wandering aimlessly through the mystical forest of colto offer somewhat helpful advice on surviving as lege romance without my guidance, like children abandoned. a 20-something student in the tiny bubble that is But not to worry, I have returned. And despite impressions our environment, and to, at the very least, make I may have given, I actually did learn something during my someone out there smile. I guess you could call me time away. the poor man’s Cupid, and let me tell you, it’s not I learned important things about myself, both life-changing easy being a fat, winged baby who’s responsible and mundane, but I’d rather not bore you with all of that for the happiness of the heartsick and lonely. No Hallmark-y excrement. Instead, I will live up to my reputation wonder I took to the bottle. So sit back and relax, of being crude, immature and somewhat trashy (highlighted Etown, and let me tell you why your pet name by the fact that I’m writing this column in the Etownian office for your boyfriend is triggering my gag reflex, or wearing animal print and large, bug-eyed sunglasses). Yet I why mixing vodka and self-pity is a bad decision. loveisyouloveisus.wordpress.com

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opinion

the Etownian

d n u

S o Off

What is your favorite snow activity?

by Matthew P. Butera

January 27, 2011

letter to the editor

Trustee addresses endowment article Roberta L. Gartside Trustee, Class of 1976

*Note: This letter is in reference to Michael McGraw’s article “Endowment: are we being shortchanged?” in issue 10 of the Etownian.

nificantly added to the endowment and our campus physical plant. We are very competitive when compared to our peer institutions in fundraising, with a 10 percent compound annual growth rate over the last eight years.

That said, why is our endowment smaller than those of other institutions? I would

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Amanda Latshaw Class of 2013

“Snow tubing.”

Dana Richmond Class of 2012

“Snow angels.”

s a Trustee of the College, I am grateful for the recent opinion piece that you wrote for the Etownian.

It is wonderful to know that our students are interested in the College endowment. We are actively engaged in regular conversations about the management and contribution levels to the fund, and I would agree that it needs to grow in order to more fully support the needs of the College. We all compare our endowment growth to that of other schools, and as Ted Long expressed, we have been fortunate to outperform others even during a down market. Interesting that our endowment has doubled in size during Ted’s leadership.

Elizabethtown is a wonderful school with a strong tradition of giving. In fact, we raised $26 million and then $47 million in recent comprehensive capital campaigns that sig-

mdollar.net

say that the College started with a smaller base endowment, and our key donor

pop culture

Reality television: helping, not hurting Kelly J. Clayton Staff Writer

Alex Liebergall Class of 2012

“Sledding down Cedar Street on trays.”

Steve DiGrazia Class of 2011

“Snowball fights.”

Make sure to check out the Sound Off poll and the latest issue on our website: www.etownian.com

group was historically and comparatively small due to small graduating classes. In fact, the first graduating class that had over 150 graduates was the class of 1963. This means that we don’t have a large group of donors who might be in the position to consider giving ultimate estate gifts. This is important because estate gifts are often the ones that make the biggest difference in building college endowments. So, in some respects, Harvard is Harvard because Harvard is old (established in 1636) and Moravian is Moravian because Moravian is old (1742). Of course this is not the only factor, but it is an important one to consider.

While we were only founded in 1899, we do have a bright future because every day our larger classes of alumni are getting closer to making larger gifts. We’ll keep working hard to keep them close with the school, and we’ll do our absolute best to keep the endowment financial returns growing. I hope that we can count on you and other future alumni to do your part to make gifts as you are able.

With all of us pulling together, we will make a difference for the future of our great College and our spectacular students.

M

Socialworkersspeak.org

eet Peter, a 61-year-old retired Army linguist who lives by himself with three dogs, two cats and 158 chickens.

Peter was featured on the Animal Planet television show, “Confessions: Animal Hoarding,” where he said, “They are my family.” The chickens all live inside his house. He sleeps on a cot in the living room, while the chickens get the master bedroom.

Animals are overtaking his house. Peter’s daughter wants him to be an integral part of her family, but Peter does not want to be. He says his main priority is his roost. His daughter wants her dad to realize that the chickens are not his family, and that he is neglecting his real loved ones.

After some tough intervention with a therapist and a few heart-to-hearts with other family members, Peter agreed to get rid of the chickens. An organization that promised to keep the chickens alive took 138 of them, while Peter kept the remaining 20 in his backyard. This was a great story, with a happy ending.

This is what reality television should be about. We, as viewers, should want to learn about those who are different than us. After 60 minutes of stepping into someone else’s life, we should come out better citizens and with more understanding of those with different problems. We should get off the couch, changed. This is the heart of reality television and I feel that shows such as “Hoarders,” “Intervention,” “I Used to be Fat” and “16 and Pregnant” do a great job of teaching society about the brave people who want to share their story in front of millions.

“I Used to be Fat” and “16 and Pregnant” bring viewers

into the lives of different people, and the stars of the shows are subjected to criticism. I commend the participants of these reality shows because it must be extremely hard to tell personal stories and admit that you have a problem to millions of viewers one night a week. “I Used to be Fat” takes morbidly obese teenagers and shows them working out and eating healthy. It is often a grueling experience that the teens go through in order to beat their cravings and realize there is more to life than food. By the end of the show, the teens are confident and appear healthy. This show acts as an inspiration to the viewers who may have unhealthy eating and exercise habits. Since nearly 34 percent of all adults in America are obese, the show can impact many people.

Reality television is not supposed to stop at entertaining.

The shows are expected to teach a lesson. Many parents question the morality of the MTV hit reality show “Jersey Shore.”

While I love Jersey Shore as much as the next guidette, the show tends to be chaotic and have more “bleeps” than actual words in any given episode. In my opinion; it is teaching children what not to do. The fact remains that TV gives viewers examples of what people are doing, whether it is true or not.

Reality TV shows what is happening in real life, how people live, look and eat.

Reality TV shows pertaining to social issues are making a difference. While it is understood that not all shows are going to have the happy full-circle ending, it is these social issues that reality shows are more likely to work through until the bitter end.

Image: mtv.com

opinion

January 27, 2011

the Etownian

internetiquette

Pokes and jokes: Facebook do’s and don’ts Peter S. Northrop Assistant Editor

A

h yes, Facebook — that devilish little program that has been slowly eating up every aspect of our lives since we were wee high school students. The vast majority of people in our age group spend several hours a day on the website, and yet there is still no real concrete set of rules to follow in our social interactions on Facebook.com.

Have no fear, the Etownian is here to guide you through the miasma that is Facebook Etiquette.

First and foremost, let’s get one of the biggest problems out of the way: your weekend photos. Look, folks, I’m really happy that all of you have active, well-exercised social lives. But really, do you need to spam my wall with a picture of every jagerbomb you dropped over the past 48 hours? It gives people the impression that your proudest moments come when you’re behind a bar. I mean, that’s great for you and everything — I’d be impressed too if my liver could take that kind of punishment. But I’m not going to discourage you from posting these pictures, because the more of you who do, the fewer people I have to compete against in today’s squalid job market.

Now, let’s talk Farmville.

Okay, I get it: raising virtual plants on a virtual farm in a virtual world is a great way to kill an afternoon (personally I prefer, y’ know, actual gardeni n g ) . How ever, there is absolutely no need to shove your digital carrots onto you r ne w s feed. Nobody wants to help you find your lost cartoon cows. Sure, annoyed friends can simply choose to hide Farmville updates from their feed, but then you folks get creative, sending game requests via messages and special status updates.

Make no mistake — if you send me any of these inane requests, I will not only unfriend you, I will also find you and set you on fire.

Speaking of unfriending, there’s a certain etiquette for that too. First of all, if you think nobody notices when you unfriend them, you’re mistaken. Some people keep such a zealous watch on their friend lists that they know

within hours if it drops a point. Trust me, you will be found. So, only unfriend with good reason. Sometimes it’s just easier to block someone from your news feed and hope for the best. Also, never tell someone that you’re unfriending them on Facebook. That’s just lame and classless. Recently a friend of mine had a guy unfriend her simply because she refused to sleep with him. He told her in a text message that he was ‘disappointed’ by her refusal and that he was deleting her friendship. This is about as low as you can fall on the totem pole of classiness.

Also, let us explore that bitterly confusing mess that is Facebook poking. It used to be a cute and confusing faux pas,

geniosity.co.za

“My whole profile has been turned into a Robert Stack page — my interests have been changed to harpsichords and circumcision, and once a well-timed hack convinced my entire family that I was coming out of the closet.”

Peter S. Northrop

everyjoe.com

someone maintains a long-term ‘poke war’ with you, it’s probably a means of gauging interest. So, be sure to p oke w it h pu rpose! You don’t want to s end the wrong message!

Fina l ly, t here is the great collegiate

the Etownian the board

everyjoe.com

but make no mistake, folks: poking has a purpose. It may seem like just a simple game to play with someone else, or a way of getting someone’s attention, but be wary. Poking is essentially the most innocuous form of flirtation out there. If

13

past time: Facebook hacking.

There’s nothing more fun than opening a computer only to find that a friend accidentally left him or herself logged into their account and then wreaking havoc on their Internet fingerprint. However, to make sure that Facebook hacking is fun and painless for all parties involved, you should stick to a few guidelines. First: be creative. There’s nothing more lame than just one status update saying “OMG guys, Cheryl got her Facebook all hacked!”

Also, avoid obtuse jokes about sexuality and that nonsense, because that kind of humor is just horrifically overplayed.

I’ve gotten some terrific Facebook hacks in the past. My whole profile has been turned into a Robert Stack page — my interests have been changed to harpsichords and circumcision, and once a well-timed hack convinced my entire family that I was coming out of the closet. Either way, just be clever and courteous, and your hacks will be an enjoyable experience for all parties involved.

These are a few ground rules for you to follow. There’s plenty more to cover, but for now these should suffice as you make your journey through Internet society.

Editor-in-Chief Ross M. Benincasa Managing Editor Khouri E. McGrann Assistant Editor Peter S. Northrop News Editor Brianna E. Wiest Features Editor Tara B. Hayes Campus Life Editor Melanie R. Giardina Opinion Editor Samantha T. Phillips Sports Editor T. Gavin Nevill Photography Editor Matthew P. Butera Copy Editor Patricia A. Cangelosi Managing Copy Editor Nancy C. Briscoe Online Editor Zachary T. Johnson Layout Editor Allison A. Gower Assistant News Editor Jamie L. Bartolino Assistant Features Editor Erika C. Surock Asst. Campus Life Editor Joelle E. Atkinson Assistant Opinion Editor Janelle K. DeAngelo Assistant Sports Editor Janna M. Richards Asst. Photography Editor Jacqueline E. Quidort Assistant Online Editor Andrew R. Sides Assistant Copy Editors Samantha M. Alleman Danielle B. Cantor Elizabeth A. Enwright Rachel L. Jesten Melanie L. Weyant Assistant Layout Editor Agnetha C. Serrame Business Manager Benjamin L. Frey Asst. Business Manager Your name here Advertising Manager Chelsea A. Benson Assistant Ad. Manager Brooke S. Wachtel 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.

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14

sports

the Etownian

wrestling

January 27, 2011

men’s basketball

Jays stumble Team finds ways to win close games for first time W D Janna M. Richards Assistant Sports Editor

uring the winter break, while most students were enjoying time with family and friends, the Elizabethtown College wrestling team was hard at work proving themselves against teams in the Metropolitan Conference. The week before most returned to campus, the Blue Jays took on Centenary College and The College of New Jersey in matches located in Thompson Gymnasium.

Etown is currently ranked 20th in the nation while Centenary is ranked 11th and TCNJ is ranked 15th. Sophomores Tye Boyer and Julian Meaney both had individual wins. Boyer was able to take the victory by pinning Craig Montgomery of Centenary and a decision against TCNJ. Meaney received a victory after taking out Charles Cancella of Centenary in a 15-2 major decision.

During the Centenary match Jose Vega defeated junior Will Bentley, 9-6, and Will Livingston won in a major decision over senior Marty Harnish.

Junior Jarred Kane beat Owen Vernon 8-7, but fellow junior Quint Eno lost to Matt Regan in a 4-3 decision.

In the match against TCNJ, the Blue Jays were ahead 9-3 until Dan Herr pinned Harnish. Later Kenneth Murphy got a fall against Kane, and with these two six-point efforts TCNJ was back in the match. Then Bentley and Boyer took decisions and sophomore Colin Sheridan won in a forfeit.

TCNJ took the lead after a 9-2 decision between Justin Bonitatis and Eno. Meaney brought the Jays into a tie by winning 6-3 against Brian Broderick.

The match was 18-15, and TCNJ’s Mike Denver won after a major decision against first-year Phil Landis. Graduate student Tim Katzaman earned a 6-3 victory, but it wasn’t enough to put the Jays ahead at the end of the day.

The team currently has a conference record of 1-2-0 and an overall record of 7-2-0, which is just one win shy of where they were last year.

The matches against Centenary and TCNJ were the first upsets for the Jays, but they hung on tough against the higher-ranked schools.

The team will compete at the Pete Willson Invitational in Wheaton, Ill., this weekend and will have another home match against Wilkes University in the Metropolitan Conference match Feb. 8.

Want to write for the sports section of The Etownian?

E-mail us at sportseditor @etown.edu

Photo: Matthew P. Butera

Senior Keith Fogel finishes a layup in the team’s 76-66 win against the Lycoming Warriors Jan. 19 at Thompson Gymnasium. Fogel leads the Blue Jays in scoring, averaging 16.3 points per contest.

Sports by the Numbers

10

The number of points senior Joe Flanagan needs to become the second Blue Jay to reach 1,000 for his career this season.

Christian V. Sammartino Staff Writer ith a heart-stopping 76-75 overtime victory against Widener University last Saturday, and another win over Lancaster Bible College on Monday, the Blue Jays improved to 14-3 this season. The squad also broke a deadlock for second place in the Commonwealth Conference with their win and an Albright loss. With showdowns against Alvernia University on Jan. 29, and Messiah College on Feb. 1, the Jays could claim the lead in the conference.

The squad, which features six seniors, has relied on their experience during challenging moments. One of those moments was a loss to Messiah earlier this month. “I think the Messiah loss kind of opened our eyes a little bit and put us into a mode where we know we have to come out and be ready each night,” senior guard Keith Fogel said. “We can’t lay back on some games.”

Since that loss, the Jays have played their brand of basketball and “brought the fire” that Head Coach Bob Schlosser wants to see. That fire has resulted in three straight conference wins against Albright, Lycoming and Widener.

The Albright game was a pivotal win for the Jays. With a 2-2 conference record coming into the game, the unit needed a strong performance. “We knew that it was going to be a battle, because it is always a physical game with [Albright],” Schlosser said. “It was not an easy game, but we found a way for 40 minutes to bring the energy.”

The win against Albright, which is the defending Commonwealth Conference champion, helped the Jays regain their momentum. “We were down in the first 10 minutes, but we chipped away at [their lead],” Fogel said. “With a veteran team like this, you know you can’t get it all at once; you know you have to stick with it.”

The stick-with-it attitude and the passionate play of the team will be crucial for the Jays down the stretch. Including their victory against Widener, the team has won six games by five points or fewer this season. “It goes back to our chemistry and our mental toughness,” senior forward Joe Flanagan said. “Winning those close ones is really huge and can be the difference between a two-seed or a four-seed come playoff time.”

In preparation for matchups against the Alvernia Crusaders and the Messiah Falcons, Schlosser has made a few changes to his practices. The team has been working on more flexibility drills and refining their man defense.

“There are a few adjustments that we will have to make,” Schlosser said.

“Those things are critical because those minor adjustments can make or break what happens in that game.”

The depth of the team will make any adjustments easier. Out of the 14 players on the team, 10 play quality minutes every game. “There are always those players that you need in specific roles, and I think that we have most of those spots,” Fogel said.

That is especially true at the forward position, where junior Brian Allport and sophomore Andrew Mantz have dominated this season. The presence of these two big men gives Schlosser flexibility with his matchups. “The development of those forwards has been a key for us,” Schlosser said.

One of the Jays’ top goals is to get a home playoff game by earning one of the top two spots in the conference. A home playoff game would be special for the seniors on the team because they have not had a home playoff game in their careers. With five of their last eight games at home, the Jays will have a chance to reach their goal in front of their fans.

commentary

Should student-athletes get paid to play?

T. Gavin Nevill Sports Editor Referees, coaches and timekeepers all get paid for working in college athletics. Even the people selling hot dogs at the snack stand during home events are making money. The question is: where is the players’ cut? Without the athletes, all of the people listed above would be looking for work elsewhere.

Under National Collegiate Athletic Association rules, athletes must remain amateurs, but what’s the problem with giving them a stipend? For how much money the athletes draw in for schools, it’s only fair that they are compensated for their time and effort. The stipend would not be based on individuals’ performances, but just a flat rate of something like $10-30 a month. This is because the guy who sits on the end of the bench spends as much time at practice and games as the guy who scores 20 points a game.

Think of how many students at Elizabethtown College chose to attend the school to play on a specific sports team.

Most parents will tell their kids not to pick a school just for

the sport, but it happens all the time. The College is the one that benefits from it because that is one more tuition payment that it wouldn’t have otherwise received.

Athletic events also serve as entertainment for the student body. At the final men’s basketball home game last season against Arcadia, 700 people attended to see the seniors play their last game. Instead of having to pay to bring in more musical or comedy acts, the College can market games like the Homecoming soccer game as a way to keep everyone entertained.

Even at the Division III level, between practices, games and off-season workouts, the time commitment from each athlete leaves little time to pick up other jobs around campus. If the NCAA could regulate the stipend to make sure all athletes at every school got the same amount, it would help the athletes and compensate them for what they bring to college campuses.

With everyone else in the NCAA out to make a buck, why can’t the athletes?

sports

January 27, 2011

the Etownian

women’s basketball

15

Strohman makes difference on court, in community Ashley N. Kufera Staff Writer

F

or those who attend the Blue Jay basketball games, it is a recurring spectacle to see senior Megan Strohman dominating the court with her leadership, determination and skill. The 5’4” captain from Lebanon, Pa., developed a passion for the sport at the age of seven.

Years later, she worked her way through Lebanon High School, becoming a part of the varsity squad her first year.

Strohman continued to work hard on and off the court, arriving at Elizabethtown College in 2007. Majoring in social work and being involved in a collegiate sport has provided a busy schedule for the senior, but she took the time to focus on others, organizing a charitable basketball game and raising $500 for the Four Diamonds Fund, which she claims is one of the most memorable times she spent in a Blue Jay uniform. Strohman works at Hershey Medical Center and brought four child cancer survivors to be honored during the game Jan. 15. With the help of her teammates, Strohman organized the game and a post-event get-together for the team and the children.

More than anyone, Strohman understands the struggles of these children. In the spring of 2007 she was diagnosed with lupus and later, in the fall of 2010, she found that she had Sjogren’s syndrome. Both of these are auto-immune diseases in which her immune cells attack her own cells, tissues and organs. At the start of her collegiate career, treatments for lupus began, which included medications used for chemotherapy. The diseases have caused problems with her eyes, intestinal tract, saliva production, eating habits, skin and white blood cell count. The medications force her to suffer from hair thinning and nausea, and make her more susceptible to infections, making it very difficult for her to play basketball.

On multiple occasions she has woken up fatigued and sick with pneumonia. There are times when she is unable to practice due to medical conditions. “Sometimes I just can’t play my best for what seems on the outside, for no reason at all. It has been a struggle through all the ups and downs,” Strohman said.

The relentless player has wonderful family and friends who have helped her through it all. “They have been in my backcourt regardless of how I played or looked. They

Strohman down. She has received many awards through her basketball career. Once she made her way into a Blue Jay uniform, she continued to make a name for herself, and was selected to the Second Team All Conference her junior year. Before college, Strohman received recognition, including All County her junior and senior years, and earned a spot on the First Team All Lancaster Lebanon League, where, as a senior, she was picked as one of the top five players in the league. Strohman was also selected to the Patriot News Big 15 during her senior year and was chosen for six different All Tournament teams, earning the MVP title for one of the tournaments.

After high school Strohman moved onto Lebanon Valley College, but decided to transfer to Etown after her first semester. “Etown was much more of a home for me.

I loved the campus, the atmosphere and the people too,” Strohman said. Upon her arrival to Etown, Strohman eased her way into the Blue Jay family, bringing talent and contributions. According to Kauffman, Strohman exemplifies admirable qualities as a captain: communication, sensitivity and leading by showing. Kauffman has seen her develop as a player after coaching Strohman for three and a half years. “Megan doesn’t feel like she has to do everything herself anymore. She relies on her team to make great passes and plays more in position, which Photo: Matthew P. Butera enhances her play,” she said.

Leading the team in scoring is another contribution. “If Senior Megan Strohman is leading Etown in scoring, you need a shot, you want the ball in her hands,” Kauffman averaging 14.5 points per game. The guard from said.

Strohman is also there for her team mentally. “She Lebanon, Pa. has also made 90.5 percent of her free throws this season. has a leading voice and knows how to pick up a teammate when necessary, and is a natural problem solver,” junior took on my stress on days where I was simply sick of picking forward Teanna Ziegler. up medications, or just too tired to do my laundry,” she said.

Strohman will walk away with values that will be with Basketball has always been an escape. Although she deals her for the rest of her life. “This journey has taught me with all of the stress of her diagnosis, she is grateful for the that sometimes trying your hardest and giving everything support from her loved ones. “I have my teammates, my you have isn’t enough,” Strohman said. “Many determine coaches, my family and friends all fighting with me, making success by the scoreboard at the end of the game, but I the battle a lot easier,” she said. have learned more from losing than winning. The tears, After she graduates this spring, Strohman will leave a frustration and let-downs have given me strength at the footprint on her Blue Jay family through her perseverance, beginning of every new day. Because I have learned to strength and determination to fight an unfair battle. “It was persevere through the hardest of times, I will always win.” a real privilege to coach her, and I am really going to miss her coming to my office just to talk,” head “It was a real privilege to women’s basketball Coach Yvonne Kauffman said.

However, fighting this battle has not slowed coach her, and I am really

They said it ...

going to miss her coming to my office just to talk.”

track and field

Blue Jays regain stride at Lehigh Kelly J. Clayton Staff Writer

A

Photo: Tom “Drac” Williams

Junior Russell Speiden took first place in the mile on Saturday and was named MAC Men’s Indoor Track and Field Athlete of the Week.

fter a month’s rest, the men and women’s track and field team showed off their speed Saturday, Jan. 22 at the Mountain Hawk Invitational in Bethlehem, Pa. Both teams had career days when they beat their previous best times and distances.

“This meet is a great opportunity to test our winter break training and start off the semester with a bang,” senior hurdler Allie Gold said. “It is difficult to train by yourself in the cold and snow during our time off and to return to campus to compete the first weekend back, but it is an exciting kick-off.”

Gold posted an impressive time of 10.07 seconds in the 60m hurdles on Saturday. One of the highs for the Blue Jays was sophomore Jenna Niedermayer, who ran an 8.49 in the 60m and was a top finisher for Etown in the long and triple jumps. First-year Monica Loranger came in fourth for Etown’s all-time indoor high jump list, clearing 5’11”. Mid-dis-

tance runners first-years Traci Tempone and Eileen Cody broke into the schools record books in the mile placing sixth and seventh, respectively. Sophomore Megan Patton finished the 3,000m with a time of 11:20.85. In the throwing events, senior captain Sarah DeGeorge made a personal record of 34’7.35” and is now extremely close to gaining fourth place in school history.

For the men’s team, first-year Trevin Fauntleroy set a school record in the indoor high jump, clearing a height of 1.94m. He is now third on Etown’s all-time indoor list for the high jump event. First-year Lucas Dayhoff moved to second on the school’s indoor list in shot put with a throw of 13.03m. Senior Keenan Schaeffer moved to fourth alltime in school history for the indoor weight throw with a 11.94m toss. In the mile run, junior Russell Speiden took first place overall with a time of 4:21.70, while junior Colby Miller came in at 4:27.77 followed by junior Evan DeArmitt with 4:27.84.

Head Coach Yvonne Kauffman on coaching senior Megan Strohman Gold thought that her team was ready for this meet, and judging by the impressive results, she was right. “We look to start establishing a strong base of MAC-qualifying standards for everyone who competes,” Gold said. “We take each meet as an opportunity to better our performance in order to be sharp for our conference meet at the end of February.”

Up next for the Blue Jays is the Penn State National, where selected mid-distance, distance relay teams and individuals will compete. It gives certain members of the team a chance to run against Division I schools and face tougher competition. The athletes are also given the opportunity to individually improve their times and strive to hit their personal record in hopes of qualifying for MACs. Senior Teresa Beshore said, “Our most important meet for the indoor season, the MAC Championships, is just five weeks away. We will use each meet in the next several weeks to prepare for and qualify for the championship.”

16

the Etownian

sports

January 27, 2011

etown athletics • pro sports • ncaa coverage

athlete profiles • commentary • analysis

swimming

Senior swimmers demonstrate dedication

InsideSports

Alexis L. Morris Staff Writer

Commentary

Time management and team bonding were big reasons for Kelly, a Guilford, Conn. native studying psychology, to swim at the collegiate level. “Being a part of a team is nice because you always have that group of people that know

When Hellman and Kelly came in as first-years, they were two of eight swimmers in their class. ince Division III athletes They went through the transihave no monetary motivation from swimming under a tion to stimulate their enthusidifferent coach their first year to asm for their sport throughout current coach Dan DeHass their the years, it is very apparent that sophomore year. “It two Elizabethtown College was sort of like startseniors have an abundant ing over freshman amount of passion for swimyear again,” Hellman ming. said. Also, as the years Stephanie Hellman and went on, the other Courtney Kelly have spent six members of Helltheir past four years at Etown man and Kelly’s class swimming together, becoming either transferred or close friends and eventually left the team due to roommates. other interests. HowKelly’s successful swimever, Hellman and ming career began at an early Kelly were the only age when she and a group two who decided to of friends joined their swim stay with the team team in fourth grade. Hellthroughout their colman did not start competilege career. “This was tively swimming until high something Courtney school, but her mom, a former and I felt strongly swimmer, pushed her to start about,” Hellman said. swimming sooner. NevertheDuring each sealess, the two arrived at Etown, son, the two have ready to compete and develop helped guide the as swimmers. team by showing how For Hellman, a business determination and administration major from commitment lead to Shrewsbury, N.J., swimming Photo: Matthew P. Butera success. Hellman and in college was an easy deciCourtney Kelly (left) and Stephanie Hellman are sion. “It was a sport I en- the only seniors on the Elizabethtown College Kelly have both posted one of the top five joyed,” she said. “Also, being swim team this season. times in each of their involved in athletics helps with my academics, and I just what you’re going through,” she events, and their individual wins enjoy being a part of a team.” said. Her main events are back- in recent meets against Lebanon Hellman swims sprint freestyle stroke and individual medley, Valley and Fairleigh Dickinsonand individual medleys for the but she also competes in free- Florham helped carry the women’s style and butterfly. team to victory.

Blue Jays.

S

Their hard work carries over to inspire other members of the team as well. “Steph and Courtney are such great leaders on our team, and they have made everyone feel welcome,” sophomore Molly Unangst said.

Fellow freestyle sprinter sophomore Jenny Malik agreed. “Steph is very competitive in the pool, which helps me to push myself harder,” she said. “She takes every 50 like it’s a race.” Malik credits Kelly with setting great pace in the pool as well and keeping track of everyone’s lap counts during practice.

Despite the fun that competition and tight-knit teams bring, being part of the swim team is difficult. “It’s a long season, and keeping your mind in it the whole season is tough,” Hellman said. Being seniors has taken its toll on the pair’s bodies as well. “It’s frustrating not to hit times now, knowing that five years ago you were 10 to 15 seconds faster,” Kelly added.

Even more frustrating is the lack of support that the swim team receives at Etown. “It’s really annoying when people say, ‘We have a swim team? Where is the pool?’”

Hellman said. Kelly added, “You don’t know what it entails until you do it. So many people say that swimming is easy and that they could do it, too.”

Still, the pair loves swimming together and doing activities with their fellow teammates. Their senior day meet is this Saturday, Jan. 29, at 1 p.m. against King’s College.

the etownian’s

Athlete of the Week

Trevin Fauntleroy

Photos: Tom “Drac” Williams

Trevin Fauntleroy is proving that there is no such thing as beginner’s luck. Just a first-year student, the jumper from Baltimore, Md. is already etching his name in the Elizabethtown College track and field record books. At Saturday’s Mountain Hawk Invitational, Fauntleroy broke the school’s indoor record for the high jump eclipsing 6’4-1/4”.

He is also third all time in the triple jump.

Q&A

Major: computer engineering Favorite Jay’s Nest item: beef jerky Favorite sports team: Baltimore Ravens Favorite musician: Kenny G Favorite TV show: “CSI” Biggest Fear: breaking a bone I’m a sucker for: strawberries.

Song currently playing on my iPod: “Live from 504” by Lil’ Wayne

In 10 years, I want to be ... an engineer with a government contract.

Hardly anyone knows that: I have three little brothers.

Greatest athletic achievement: getting second at the state championship I started playing my sport... freshman year of high school.

Favorite movie: “Maddea’s Class Reunion” Childhood hero: Grandma

Page 14 Men’s Basketball Page 14 Wrestling Page 14 Women’s Basketball Page 15 Track and Field Page 15

Sports Recap Men’s Basketball Etown 76, Lycoming 66 Widener 75, Etown 75 Etown 86, LBC 68 Women’s Basketball Etown 58, Lycoming 65 Widener 79, Etown 73 Etown 65, Eastern 58 Women’s T & F Mountain Hawk Invitational No Team Score Men’s T & F Mountain Hawk Invitational No Team Score Men’s Swimming Etown 60, Albright 117 Widener 76, Etown 58 Women’s Swimming Etown 94, Albright 101 Widener 95, Etown 104 Wrestling Etown 13, Centenar y 25 Etown 18, TCNJ 22

Schedule

of Sports

Men’s Basketball Januar y 29 Alvernia Women’s Basketball Januar y 29 Alvernia Women’s T & F Januar y 28: Penn State National Januar y 29: Seamus McElligott Invitational Men’s T & F Januar y 28: Penn State National Januar y 29: Seamus McElligott Invitational Men’s Swimming Januar y 29: King’s College Women’s Swimming Januar y 29: King’s College Wrestling Januar y 28-29 Wheaton (Ill.) Pete Willson Invitational EtownBlueJays .com