Etownian Issue 6 - 10/28/2010

Going the Extra Mile

Young Love

Features, page 5

Campus Life, page 7

Senior Night Flop

Opinion, page 11

End of an era?

Centerfold, pages 8-9

October 28, 2010• Volume 107, No. 6

One Alpha Drive • Elizabethtown, PA 17022-2298

On the Web: www.etownian.com

athletics

I came, I saw, I threw: marshmallows invade Messiah Joelle E. Atkinson Assistant Campus Life Editor

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do,” Roderick said. “It also seemed that both teams were very successful with winning records, and we were highly ranked and played each other at the end of the year.” The rivalry seems to escalate as both Etown and Messiah move throughout the playoffs.

“We would play each other three times: once at the end of the season, once in the MACs and once in the league championships. So we were always playing each other,” Roderick explained.

Over the years, many students have questioned why we throw marshmallows. Roderick said that he is not sure when or how the tradition came about, but both teams were known to be “soft teams.” “Someone came to a game and

every time someone didn’t make a tackle, they threw a marshmallow. Then, all of a sudden, it escalated and became a huge rivalry,” the veteran coach said.

The reason it is such a big event, he continued, is because most of the games in the past have been either one goal or overtime games and tend to be very competitive.

“In the ’80s and ’90s we were one of the premiere teams in the league, and it seemed that they had always been chasing us. Now, it seems as though everyone is always chasing them,” he said.

Though within the past few years the Blue Jays have been unsuccessful in their quest to beat their biggest rival, Roderick has a different philosophy about the game this year. “As a coach, you always Photo: Matthew P. Butera think you have a better shot. We always focus on the game at the end of the year. This year, we’ve been taking each game as it comes and will worry about this game when it happens.”

With the Messiah game comes the end of a successful regular season. Looking back on the season, the head coach has a positive feeling. “We are fortunate so that we don’t have one player who has helped us win. We have all worked together,” he said of the team. “It’s been really fun to watch and to coach.”

In their latest matchup on Saturday, Oct. 23, against Lycoming, the Blue Jays scored 3-0 in their Senior Night game

ith Halloween weekend comes falling leaves and carving pumpkins. Here at Elizabethtown College, the end of the Etown Blue Jays’ regular soccer season and the much-anticipated Etown versus Messiah College game also arrives. This rivalry has been more than 20 years in the making and will come to a head once more on Saturday, Oct. 30 at Messiah’s Shoemaker Field.

The last game of the regular season is marked by the trademarked throwing of white fluffy marshmallows onto the field and according to Men’s Head Coach, Skip Roderick, this annual matchup is “the biggest Division III sporting event within the country.”

When entering the College freshman year, students are regaled with stories of past games and the antics that take place before, during and afterwards.

However, many wonder why the rivalry is so great, why we throw marshmallows and why this is such a big event.

Roderick gives several reasons for the increased rivalry between Etown and Messiah over the past years: it is not only an issue of location, but factors also include a similar style of play and familiarity of players. “In the beginning, we would often recruit the same players, so it is fun to see who The annual Etown vs. Messiah marshmallow soccer game is this Saturday, Oct. 30 at went where and what they can Messiah’s Shoemaker Field. Buses are available to and from Messiah College.

See BLUE JAYS, page 2

in the nation

Bedbugs rampant in major cities; epidemic imminent Alyssa F. Broda Staff Writer

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on’t let the bedbugs bite! Once a cliché, this saying has relevance again. Bedbugs have stirred up trouble in large areas such as New York City, and are slowly making their way across the United States. These critters have nuzzled into many different kinds of life, from high-scale apartment buildings to the dorms of college campuses.

It is clear no one should be ignorant of these pests. Experts claim the recent surge of bedbug infestations is due to the increase of global travel. Bedbugs

spread by jumping from one host to another when people brush against one another in crowded areas such as subways or airports. Bedbugs are also spread through reconditioned mattresses, and when old mattresses are transported with new ones.

Bedbugs are small, brown or red colored insects that are around the size of an apple seed. Living a nocturnal life, bedbugs only come out at night to feast on human blood. They can feed for about ten minutes at a time, turning from brown to red after ingesting the blood.

Bedbugs are problematic because they can rarely be seen — they live in the cracks and crevices of homes. Mattresses are a favorite hiding spot for bedbugs

Images: marathonbf.com, excellent-wedding.cn, mlblogs.com, phandroid.com, exterminatebedbugs.net

(hence their name) because they give the bugs easy access to food. Other places where bedbugs can be found include wooden floorboards and in the seams of furniture. The first sign of bedbugs is usually their bite — an itchy, swollen red bump, which goes away in a few days.

Some students have dealt with the nationwide bedbug problem directly.

Senior Caitlin Koller lived in New York City this past summer. The increase in the prevalence of bedbugs was evident, and it affected her everyday life. The building she lived in had a bedbug infestation on a lower floor. Staff paid for the cleaning of the entire house, as well as a place for the tenants to stay until everything was bedbug free.

Koller says television commercials were full of advertisements for bedbug cleaning services and products. If she saw a mattress in the street waiting to be picked up by a garbage truck, she would make sure to avoid it.

Koller said, “You always wanted a shower after getting off the subway.” However, Koller does not think bedbugs are nearly as

much of a problem in Etown as they are in New York City.

Whitney Rufo, a sophomore and Ober resident, said, “It wouldn’t surprise me if [bedbugs] were in the dorms.”

Although bedbugs are seen as repulsive and disgusting, Eileen Wagener, the health liaison for Etown College stressed, “The most important fact is that bedbugs do not spread disease.” Wagener also noted that, since their bites cause a break in the skin, an infection may occur, which is why keeping bites clean is important.

Wagener stated, “I think all colleges need to be concerned about bedbugs as a possibility, just as hotels do. With all the traveling we do these days, it is easy for bedbugs to hitch a ride and be transported from place to place, so I do think colleges need to be concerned and prepared if they need to deal with a bedbug problem.”

Although Etown College and other schools are not currently facing a large risk, they are aware of the situation and will act accordingly if bedbugs make their way into college students’ mattresses.

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news

the Etownian

October 28, 2010

on campus

The

Jayd-ed

edge

Rachel A. Marsteller Staff Writer Counterfeit pot A southwestern Pennsylvania man called 911 to complain about some terrible marijuana he had just purchased, which turned out to be something other than pot.

Police say the man told officers he bought the substance earlier that day and that “it was nasty” when he smoked it.

Uniontown Detective Donald Gmitter said a field test determined the substance wasn’t pot at all, but police didn’t say what it was.

Even though the 21-year-old man didn’t technically buy marijuana, he isn’t off the hook.

Sgt. Wayne Brown told the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review that Wednesday’s incident remains under investigation, and the man could face a charge of possession of a counterfeit controlled substance.

Mega Death Sauce A Steak ‘n Shake restaurant in Cleveland, Tenn., was sued by a couple who claimed it served a hot sauce that sent their son to the hospital.

Tim and Mary Katherine Gann said a restaurant server gave their underage child a bottle of Blair’s Mega Death Sauce for his chili and encouraged him to eat some. When he did, he broke out in hives, had trouble breathing and suffered severe pain.

The brand isn’t customarily served by the chain. Mega Death’s maker warns that it’s “500 times hotter than a jalapeno.”

The lawsuit seeks $10,000 in compensation and $50,000 punitive damages.

Oh young love Two Syrian children may be the youngest couple ever to get engaged. Khalid, five, popped the question to Hala, who’s just three, “of his own free will,” following a whirlwind holiday romance.

The families of both children are not only taking the betrothal seriously, but they insist the schoolchildren are in love and are already planning a wedding for ten years down the road when Khalid will be 15 and Hala, 12.

The parents arranged the engagement ceremony in their hometown of Homs, north of Damascus. They invited family and friends and even bought rings, which the prepubescent couple exchanged in adult fashion.

Their story has become the talk of the country.

Khalid’s father, Juma, said his son fell in love with Hala just days after meeting her during a family trip to the port city of Latakia.

“He was so lovesick after parting from his young girlfriend that he refused to go back to his nursery unless little Hala came too,” said Khalid’s father, who added that Khalid was his only child from a marriage which lasted more than 25 years.

“I vowed to have my child engaged at the age of five if he was a boy and to marry him to a women of his choice at the age of 15,” Khalid’s father said. He has also agreed to bear the education expenses of both children until they graduate.

Compiled from myway.com and cbsnews.com.

Search continues to find president

Kalie M. Desimone Staff Writer

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ith each major event coming and going, the campus community is continuously reminded of President Long’s final year at Elizabethtown College and much of the College community wonders who will be taking his place. Students, faculty and staff are aware that the “Presidential Search” is currently going on; through various emails and newsletters, the community has become aware of some progress. However, the identities of the committee remain unknown, as dos what part of the process they currently stand.

The Presidential Search Committee consists of two students, three faculty members, two staff members, five trusties, the President of the Alumni Council and one atlarge member. As of Friday, Oct. 15, the application deadline came to a close for candidates looking to become the next president of Elizabethtown College. The Presidential Search Committee expected to receive about 30-70 applications, but at the deadline, actually received over one hundred applications.

The Committee has since met to narrow the candidate pool to about ten to twelve individuals. Chair of the Presidential Search Committee, Jim Shreiner, states that committee members are looking for specific char-

acteristics in the next president: “We are looking for someone with great leadership skills, experience with the liberal arts education system, someone who has a lot of passion and energy [that is comparable to how President Long has been in the college community], and finally, the candidate should also have a strong vision for the future of Etown College.”

All of the above criteria have been deemed important qualities from various members at the College and Shreiner wants everyone to know that their feedback on these qualities has been helpful.

Once the committee finds these specific traits in an applicant, they will begin checking references. and gathering as much information as possible on said applicant.

Eventually, the committee will meet each of the “semi-finalists” in a face to face interview session. This process is expected to be completed by Photo: Matthew P. Butera early November. Once complete, the committee will meet once again to determine the finalists.

According to the committee, they are looking to narrow down the candidate pool to no more than three finalists to be presented to the Board of Directors. It is likely that the campus community will be notified of these finalists. Shreiner says that the new president will begin his or her new term in July of 2011, when they will be officially declared the new president of Elizabethtown College.

continued from page one

Blue Jays look to best historic rival and their last home game of the regular season. The Blue Jays remain not only undefeated, but they have yet to allow a goal to be scored within the past four games.

Senior Taylor Heisel accelerated the team early on in the game, when he kicked a ball that was 25 yards out which slipped through the Lycoming Warrior goalies’ fingers and into the net at 20:21.

Sophomore Javiem Blanchette came off of the bench to play an outstanding game. He proceeded to offset the Blue Jays’ offense when took a pass from senior Cameron Gettel and propelled it right into the goal at the 38:50 mark to boost Etown’s lead to 2-0 before halftime.

Blanchette did not stop his momentum in the second half and slipped another shot by Lycoming’s goalie off of an assist from sophomore Cameron Wyllie. Etown’s goalie, sophomore Eric Carr, had another outstanding performance on the field that night with five saves and giving him his fourth shut out in a row.

With the season ending on a rather impressive note, Gettel has only positive things to say about his team. “The team has definitely found our stride in winning our last nine games. We’ve played our composed, yet intense style of soccer that has afforded us success against the conference opponents.” When looking

ahead, he notes the challenges their final contest will bring. “Messiah is always a handful because they play 22 players throughout most games.

As a result, the players are rested and less fatigued in the final portions.”

However, Gettel does not feel that he would prepare differently than he would any other opponent and is assured that the team just needs to maintain composure throughout the week’s preparation.

As the regular season draws to a close, firstyear athletes on the team reflect on the season and how they will approach this upcoming bout. First-year Andrew Fetterman said he is expecting an exciting game against Messiah.

“Both teams always bring their best to this game and energy will be very high all game,” Fetterman said. “This will be the biggest game a lot of us have ever played so it is hard to say that we will approach it the same way. One thing I can tell you for sure is that we will be ready to go for this one.”

First-year Andrew Collier added that his first season as a Blue Jay has been unlike any other season he has

ever had. “The brotherhood and discipline we have is unlike any other team in the nation. I have grown so much as a player being well aware of everything going on on the field and my fitness is better than ever,” he said.

Roderick hopes to create memories for his team within the final games. “We take each game as it comes and try and let the seniors have one of the most successful years

Image: randyhorton.net

they will ever have, something they will remember for a lifetime.”

If he could leave his players with one final thought before their last games of the season, Roderick said: “All I can ask is that they do their best when it’s time to do their best. We all love to win, but you can’t win unless you actually put the effort in. If you fall short and you gave everything you have, then so be it.”

news

October 28, 2010

the Etownian

alternative energy

3

BioFuel innovations send green initiative into overdrive Kristen N. Lacaillade Staff Writer

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he term “BioFuel” is becoming a common word used in conversation between those who have jumped on the “Go Green” bandwagon. These fuels are becoming more and more popular as our nation and the world around us raises awareness about creating a greener, cleaner environment — and fuel is no exception. Gas prices have been rising across the nation over the past several years, and the introduction of BioFuels have aided in combating those extra expenses. By choosing the “cleaner” route, rather than filling cars with everyday gas to get by, people’s lives and wallets have become much lighter and less stressful.

Located in Manheim, Pa., AMERIgreen Energy, Inc. is a leading Mid-Atlantic wholesale fuels marketer and supplier of BioFuels. This company has both stations and distributors throughout the Mid-Atlantic region, and supplies numerous stations up and down the East coast. Since 2001, AMERIgreen has built a reputation of innovation and of providing quality BioFuel products. As an active member of the local community and the fuel industry, AMERIgreen has also helped coordinate standards and awareness for BioFuels, and vote on many important issues relating to the issue of effective BioFuel use and testing.

AMERIgreen offers Americans the opportunity to choose 100 percent American-Made Fuel, which is drilled, refined and sold exclusively in North America. This fuel also incorporates a blend of BioFuel. Americans are able to heat their homes and power their vehicles while contributing money into local economies, which creates jobs in our communities and reduces money exported to foreign nations. By internalizing such a large industry and keeping the profits within our nation’s limits, this

can help advance and assist pulling our nation out of the economic hole it has found itself in. The possibility of involving more Americans in this industry could help make wallets thicker, aiding the job market as it begins its upward climb. Jobs are consistently available in this field in all aspects of production. Whether it involves drilling or sitting in an office, this industry is not going anywhere anytime soon. Unlike some industries, which are around for a certain amount of time then eventually fold, these jobs and the money gained by keeping the fuel economy inside American limits can only be beneficial to our nation as a whole.

Gas prices have also become a major contender when considering the BioFuel industry. This past week, gas prices at the three local gas stations in Etown — the Turkey Hill on the corner of Market and Summit streets, the Giant gas station and the Turkey Hill on the corner of Market and Arch streets — all reported regular fuel prices of $2.79 per gallon. For the small percentage of students on campus who do not have a car, and therefore do not need to worry about the gas prices, this may not mean much. However, for both faculty and staff alike who rely on their cars to get to and from work, internships or field work, these fuel prices have affected our driving habits.

For most, these prices have affected our bank accounts in a negative fashion however, some claim they have not been affected whatsoever.

Sophomore Jim Gentile said, “Gas prices have been limiting the number of things I can do around town and the number of trips I’m able to take home to visit my family in New Jersey. Carpooling is a big thing now between friends since the gas prices are so ridiculous.”

On the other end of the spectrum, senior Jarrod Cawley felt that the gas prices have had no affect on his driving habits or his wallet whatsoever.

“The price of gas hasn’t really affected me as much as some other people because I rarely drive anywhere off campus and even when I do it’s never really that far,” he said.

BioFuels, regardless of their affect on each person individually, are part of a growing industr y with much potential.

Wit h its continuing success, the economy will only reap the b e n e f it s of t h i s p o s it ive i n f lu e nc e by seeing more jobs and more money being pumped into it. Whether the gas prices affect you or they do not bother you at all, one thing is for sure: They are only getting higher as they days go on, so something needs to be done. The BioFuel industry very well may be the answer.

politics

Everyone eligible encouraged to vote November 2 James R. Panacio Staff Writer

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n Nov. 2, Americans all over the country will head to the polls and vote for their local representatives, state senators and governors.

Although the election is a week away, the various candidates are campaigning vigorously; TV ads, campaign signs and speeches are increasing in publicity as Nov. 2 draws near. Numerous polls are anticipating a Republican takeover of the House, as well as numerous victories in the gubernatorial races.

Democrats, however, are expected to maintain their majority in the Senate despite predicted GOP advances. The Democrats in Congress and President Obama may have to contend with a divided government.

According to the HuffingtonPost. com, and The New York Times’ fivethirtyeight blog, the Republicans are expected to gain 228.4 seats in the House compared to the Democrats gaining 206.6 of the seats. Gubernatorial races are also looking to favor the GOP, as the projected wins are 30.2 seats as compared to 19.3 for the Democrats. In the Senate, the Democrats may retain their majority with anticipated winnings of 51.9 seats against the Republican’s 48.1.

In Pennsylvania, gubernatorial candidates Tom Corbett (R) and Dan

Onorato (D) are running to replace Ed Rendell (D) as state governor. Corbett is the current attorney general for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, while Onorato is the Allegheny County Chief Executive. Fivethirtyeight has predicted that Corbett and Onorato will receive 54.3 percent and 43.7 percent, respectively, of Pennsylvanians’ votes.

The same blog has calculated Corbett’s winning chances to 84.3 percent, and Onorato’s to only 15.2 percent.

The most hotly contested campaigns by far are those of the senatorial candidates. Students are likely to be familiar with the mudslinging television ads by run by Patrick Toomey (R) and Joe Sestak (D).

Toomey had previously been a Representative for Pennsylvania’s 15th Congressional District until 2005. His challenger, Sestak, is a former U.S. Navy Vice-Admiral and the current Representative for this commonwealth’s 7 th Congressional District. Both are running to replace Senator Arlen Spector, who lost the Democratic Party’s nomination to Sestak several months earlier. Both fivethirtyeight and The Huffington Post have predicted a victory by Toomey, anticipating him to receive between a one- and five percent increase in votes. Numerous other polling services, as conducted by Muhlenberg College, Susquehanna University

and others, have produced varying results for Toomey and Sestak. The most recent poll, conducted by Franklin and Marshall College between Oct. 18-21, showed that both candidates had a 43 percent approval, with the remaining 14 percent going to third parties.

All of Lancaster County, as well as parts of Berks and Chester, are represented by the 18th Congressional District. Incumbent Republican Joseph Pitts is competing against challenging Democrat Lois Herr. Herr, who lives in Manheim, is a graduate of Elizabethtown College, the University of Pennsylvania and Fordham University.

She taught at Etown for several years before entering politics.

Since she will be facing an incumbent, however, her winning chances are considerably slim.

It is predicted that Pitts will receive around 58.5 percent of the vote with a 99.3 percent likelihood of winning, according to fivethirtyeight. Herr, on the

other hand, could receive 37.7 percent of the vote; her winning chances are presumed to be a mere 0.7 percent.

Etown students are encouraged to come out and vote Nov. 2 for their state’s governor and senator, and their district representative. If students did not register to vote before Oct. 4, they will not be able to take part in the elections. Students who are of age are still encouraged to register anyway. Students who are not from the Lancaster County area, but are from Pennsylvania, can contact the County Board of Elections or go to VotePA.com to send in an application for an absentee ballot. Students from out-ofstate should visit their respective st ate’s voting websites to apply for an absentee ballot.

Whether a student is from Pennsylvania or another state, he or she can visit the actual websites of the candidates or go to Pollster.com or visit the fivethirtyeight blog at NYTimes.com.

Images: saltbush.une.edu, twp.scio.mi.us, itsgettinghotinhere.files.wordpress.com

4

features

the Etownian

profiles • monthly series • campus events

October 28, 2010 town events • facts & figures• business

student issues

How to: the do’s and dont’s of interviewing for a job Peter S. Northrop Assistant Editor

Photo Credit: www.foundationyear.com

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ell folks, May is fast approaching and with May comes graduation and the one thing in the world seniors dread most: the job search. Now I know that seems like it’s WAY too far off to worry about, but trust me — the sooner you get started on the quest for employment, the better your chances are, especially in an economy like this.

Career Services provides all sorts of resources to help land you that career you crave. Last week, one resource in particular stood out: the mock interview process. Career Services convinced two local professionals to stop by the BSC and fake-interview a whole mess of students looking to practice their interview skills. I was one of those students. To tell you the truth, folks — I was awkward as sin in that interview.

Today you’ll hear a full retelling of my follies and my ultimate triumph. I only hope you will benefit from my experiences as much as I did.

My interviewer was a woman named Dara Hockensmith. She’s the Director of Recruiting and Development over at the Lancaster office of Northwestern Mutual Financial Network. Career Services told me this ten minutes prior to my meeting Dara, but I didn’t fully remember it until three hours after my interview. The information just went in one ear and out the other. This brings me to my first pointer: Don’t ever forget the name of the person who’s interviewing you. EVER. It’s the most obnoxiously unprofessional stunt you can pull.

Luckily, I managed to keep my cool, and I don’t think she caught on to my shameful ignorance (that is — until she reads this article...welp).

This was inconsequential compared to other, more monumental mistakes I made immediately thereafter.

I should tell you all that at the very beginning of this interview process, I was very nervous. I don’t know why, but meeting new people always makes me anxious — no matter how harmless the setting.

Of course, I can’t say, “DON’T GET NERVOUS,” but Hockensmith had a lot of good advice on how to handle being nervous in an interview setting.

She said that the best interviewees don’t just interrupt to answer a question. They wait for their interviewer to stop talking, then pause. They collect their thoughts, formulating the best possible response they can.

“You need to think about your response,” Hockensmith said. “Your answer needs to have purpose — you need to make a point. Just breathe, then answer.”

Which is... a good point. Sure, I may have thought that answering my questions lightning fast and with hurricane force would show how confident and “brilliant” I am, but, ultimately, it made me look like a fool. And kind of a jerk.

When preparing for an interview, you should know some of the most basic questions you’ll be asked.

“Most of my questions focus on the core of a person,” said Hockensmith. She said the worst question you can be asked in an interview is: “So, tell me about yourself.” Trust me — you will be asked this question at some point. When you are, all you have to do is ask your interviewer to be more specific.

“Usually I want to focus on someone’s background,” said Hockensmith. “Things like, what’s your family like? What are your friends like? Who do you spend the most time with?” Questions like this really get at the foundation of who you are as a person in the quickest possible way — so be honest, if a little self-serving.

“I also always ask how a person chose their college and their major,” said Hockensmith. “This shows me how you make important decisions.” Be sure to have a good answer prepped for that.

“I also recommend that you establish a set of core values,” Hockensmith added. Simple, yet potent values like integrity, passion and honesty.

Finally, another really solid piece of advice is to ALWAYS follow up on an interview. While email is acceptable, Hockensmith recommended a handwritten note on your own personal stationary. The purpose is to thank your interviewer for his or her time and to establish whether or not you’re still interested in the position.

Ultimately, my interview experience was a positive one. I know I’ve made myself out to look like a total dork, but I did pretty well in the interview. Hockensmith had more positive than negative comments for me, and all of the criticisms made in this article about my performance were mine only.

As with most situations in life, interviewing is trial and error. It is important to remember as fearful, wide-eyed, and in my case, scatterbrained, seniors, not to fear; we will all, one day, snag the elusive “j” word: job.

on campus

Roaring ’20s musical showcases life, love, debauchery Tara Hayes Asst. Copy Editor

“L

ife is a Cabaret, old chum.”

It is at least for the 50 people working on Elizabethtown College’s production of “Cabaret.”

“Cabaret,” the musical, takes place in 1929 Berlin. It follows a young woman, Sally Bowles, played by junior Clara DeAngelo, in her quest to find herself.

“You never truly see her real self, and I think that’s because she doesn’t know her true self,” DeAngelo said. “She’s lost and instead of trying to find herself, her true self, she finds different characters to be.”

Bowles finds a cabaret (a nightclub), The Kit Kat Klub and joins in with the singing, dancing,and drinking. Sophomore Ethan Shearer plays the Master of Ceremonies (MC) of The Kit Kat Klub. “[My character] is smart, sexual, brash and very ironic. He tries to entertain the customers at the club, while making comments on the various characters in the show,” said Shearer.

The suggestion to perform “Cabaret” as the musical this fall came from a student who graduated last May. Director Dr. Michael Swanson, associate professor of theatre and coordinator of theatre and dance, along

with a committee (which includes two additional faculty members and two students) chose this musical because

of its message, and its connection to today’s issues with the economy.

“Often groups of people get blamed for questionable reasons, and the cabaret’s kind of an escape. They go in there to watch the dancing and singing,” Swanson said. “We need to be aware that escapes can be a false front.”

“It is a show that is about human issues and how one chooses to deal with them,” Shearer said.

“Do we face them? Do we run away? Do we ignore them?”

As the director, Swanson is not only there for the cast and crew, but also for the audience. He must make sure that the musical’s message is accurately portrayed. “I’m the chief cheerleader for the play— for the audience and for the cast,” Swanson said.

The costume designer for this musical, Robin Howard Tobin, who has worked with Jim Henson on “The Muppets,” is new to Elizabethtown Theatre.

“I think you can be Image Credit: www.etown.edu Nate Shugart (bottom), Ethean Shearer (middle) and more experimental in Melissa Fitts (top) pose in a scene from the musical Cabaret. college theatre, but I

really like working with the students,” Tobin said.

Because “Cabaret” is set in the 1920s, the clothing in the musical is very different than that of today. Tobin must create historically accurate clothing to make the musical more realistic. “[We’re] trying to be somewhat historically accurate with the street clothes, as much as time and budget allow. [We’re trying to be] much more accurate with military pieces, the things that are documented and people are aware of because I think that’s more important than if every lapel is correct,” Tobin said. Tobin must also make sure the dancers are comfortable on stage. “Dancers require specialized [outfits because] they have to be able to move,” she said.

“Cabaret” is known as a racy musical with short skirts and actors dressed in drag. In addition to the actors and actresses, however, the orchestra will also be in full costume, including the few male instrumentalists. This creates a sense of team unity among those working on the production.

“Everyone in the cast, we work so well together. There’s no one not pulling their weight,” DeAngelo said.

“Cabaret” will be showing in the Tempest Theatre, in the Baugher Student Center, Oct. 28, 29, 30 and Nov. 4 and 5 at 8:00 p.m. and on Nov. 7 at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are $7.00 and are sold at the Box Office; to contact the Box Office, email BOXOFFICE@etown.edu, or call extension 1170. For additional details, go to the show’s event page on Facebook, “Cabaret at Elizabethtown College: Oct. 28 – Nov. 7.”

October 28, 2010

features

study abroad

the Etownian

5

Living with Belgian host families educates, enlightens Aimee E. Stango Volunteer Writer

Alexandra K. Conte Volunteer Writer

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B

ast semester, I studied abroad in Brussels, Belgium, with four other girls from Elizabethtown College. We were placed with host families all around Belgium, a bilingual country where some study abroad students live with French host families while others live with Dutch host families. I lived with a Dutch host family along with two of the other girls from Etown. Our host family was originally from Holland and spoke mainly Dutch. Our host parents were retired and had four daughters, all over the age of thirty.

We lived in a four-story row home with six bedrooms and each of the study abroad girls had their own room. Living with Paul, Thea and Marieka was a nice change from dorm life. There was never an absence of people, especially when one of their other daughters and her family moved in. Unlike living at Etown, we lived in a neighborhood with a beautiful park, the National Basilica of the Sacred Heart at the end of the park.

Living in a city with a forty-five minute commute to school as well as living with a Dutch family was a whole new experience.

One similarity to living in a dorm While you study abroad you have plenty of opportunities and to make new ones. was having to share a bathroom with six to ten other people. Another interesting living change was taking a shower in five minutes because of a 30-second shut off valve. There were also perks, including a home-cooked dinner every day. Being abroad and living with a host family truly made my Brussels experience. I went to new places, learned about new cultures and ate new foods while learning to live independently.

elgian frites, chocolate, waffles — these are just three of the many things I loved about last semester. I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to study abroad this past spring in Brussels, Belgium. This experience gave me a worldly perspective on everyday life. Brussels is the capital of the European Union and an important city in Europe, so attending school there was quite different than what I had been used to, here at Elizabethtown.

I was lucky enough to have a fairy tale story and the perfect living experience. My host family consisted of a dad, a mom, four daughters (whose ages ranged from 16 to 24), a pet bird and a hamster. This living situation was ideal because I wanted to learn French while I was abroad. I took a French course, and my host family also spoke French and was able to help me learn the language. At the dinner table, they would converse in French but then translate for me. It was comforting because my host parents and the three oldest daughters had lived in the States for three years; therefore, it was reassuring to know that they realized how big of a transition this was for me.

I was spoiled living in this house with my host family because my host mom would cook me dinner every night, and I was able to do my laundry at the house. The living experience was a combination of residing at home and at Etown.

It was by no means similar to the dorms, but I was able to find comparisons to my time in the Rose Garden, an SDLC, which is where I called home in the fall of 2009. Fortunately enough, I was able to have my own bedroom. I really enjoyed that aspect of staying with a host family.

Personally, I feel that living with a host family was the right decision because it reminded me of home. My youngest host sister turned into the little sister I never had; we would often watch “Friends” in English with French subtitles, and we still Courtesy Photo keep in touch. When my host sisters would argue, it gave me to travel with friends that feeling of being home and being a part of a family. Having to leave my host family was the hardest part of the whole experience because I don’t know when I’ll see them next.

Studying abroad and living with my host family helped me realize that there is a whole big, important world out there, and I shouldn’t spend my time sweating the little things in life. This fairy tale family that I lived with for four months and four days turned into my second family, and, although it was not Etown, it provided me with the experience of a lifetime.

student profile

Junior running 26.2 miles to better community, self Michael A. McGraw Staff Writer

J

unior Callum Luff is training to run his first marathon. The word “marathon” has become synonymous with Boston, yet Luff will be running almost fifteen hundred miles away. On Sunday, Jan. 9, runners will flock to Orlando, Fla. to compete in the Walt Disney World Marathon. Luff will be running the 26.2 miles in the company of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Team in Training (TNT).

T h e t e am i s d e d i c at e d to raising money to treat these devastating illnesses through fund raising for their run. So far, Luff has raised $3,955, only around $1,000 short of his goal of $5,000. Luff said, “My goal originally was to raise $3,400, but I exceeded that and am now shooting for $5,000.”

Luff, a soccer player in high school, has always been a running enthusiast, but up until this marathon, has never run competitively. “When I came across Team in Training it seemed like a perfect thing for me,” he said. He also noted how, since coming to Etown, “the Photo Credit: Matthew P. Butera

whole ‘Educate for Service’ motto has really been a big thing for me.” Getting the chance to mix his passion for community service with his love of running, Luff knew he had found the event for him.

Family friend Karen Dolly serves as an inspiration for Luff as he trains for January. Dolly is a good friend of Luff ’s mother and was diagnosed with acute Myeloid Leukemia in May 2009. This type of cancer starts inside of the bone marrow with cells that normally turn into white blood cells. It is an aggressive form of cancer that causes bone pain, fatigue, fever and weight loss, among other things. The prognosis is generally good, and the sooner it is found the better the chance of recovery.

Luff “loves making a difference” and enjoys the “heart-felt notes” that he receives from his supporters as well as hearing the many touching stories from survivors or families of people going through this terrible process.

Having a personal tie to his cause makes Luff all the more determined to raise money and awareness to help in the fight against the deadly disease. As with most things, developing a perLuff is raising money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

sonal connection with a cause can inspire someone to work that much harder to achieve a goal.

Luff trains weekly with his TNT team as well as some of his friends here at Etown.

Generally, during the week Luff runs around three to seven miles. However, on the weekends he goes on long runs with TNT that are upwards of twelve miles. The longest training run he will go on before the marathon is a twenty mile run.

Since starting his training in July, Luff ’s focus has always been on his goal of raising money and completing the marathon.

The tight-knit community at Etown has been extremely supportive of Luff, making his journey that much more worthwhile.

“I think what he’s doing is really admirable,” Senior Kaitlyn Bridgeman said.

“He obviously cares about the cause, and it is something that is important to him,” Senior Steve DiGrazia said. “It has been great seeing him make progress financially and physically.”

He said that he has received donations from students, professors and staff here at the College and is touched by the amount of support he gets from those rallying around him.

He notes that a Mail Services worker is especially supportive, as she handles the mail that he receives on a daily basis and can see first-hand the impact Luff ’s run is having on not only this community, but in his hometown and on people like Dolly’s lives. If you want to know more about Luff ’s cause, training, or how to donate visit his website at: pages.teamintraining.org/cpa/wdw11/cluff8.

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campus life

the Etownian

movies • music • television • humor • travel

October 28, 2010

lifestyles • arts • advice • college issues

Costume ideas calling from your closet Shelby D. Samartino Staff Writer

H

alloween is approaching fast, and students everywhere are scurrying around trying to find the perfect costume. Unfortunately, most students are also incredibly broke. Luckily, over the years, college students have become more imaginative with outfit ideas, but if your creative gene still hasn’t kicked in, here are some examples of quick, easy and CHEAP last minute Halloween outfits.

For starters, there are numerous websites devoted to helping people create their own Halloween ensembles. Maybe they’re on a tight budget, or maybe they’re just plain lazy. Nevertheless, there’s something for everyone. Some of these sites include: www.Halloween.com, www.CostumeIdeaZone.com, and even www.FoxNews.com covers a story on the “8 Killer Do-It-Yourself Last Minute Halloween Costumes.” The most popular generally fit into one of these five categories: candy, toga/loincloth, conventional objects, alcoholrelated and the more scandalous costumes.

First, there are the candy costumes. These are generally a solid-color outfit of some sort with actual candy or a pseudo-candy label stuck on them somewhere. Sophomore Devon Geduldig constructed a costume that falls right into this category: peppermint. She didn’t need to purchase much to make this work. All that was needed was a white dress, some old scraps of cardboard, and red and white paint. Geduldig also had actual peppermint candies lying around her dorm room, so she figured she would be able to incorporate them somehow. She then cut small circles out of the cardboard and painted them red and white. She attached them to the dress, using a mild adhesive like double-sided tape, in order to take them off and reuse the dress.

To add some literal elements to her costume, she also attached several of the actual peppermint candies around the neckline as a border. The candy costume idea can be used with other candies, such as Good & Plenty, M&Ms, Dot candy, etc. It’s easy, cute, and if you happen to get hungry throughout the night, you can simply snack on your costume!

The next category has stood the test of time and is possibly the easiest, albeit cliché, of the DIY costume ideas: the toga. All you need to do is grab a bed sheet, a bath towel or some curtains and maneuver a way to wrap it around yourself. Some may grab leaves from the ground, apply them to your chosen fabric, and wear it as a loincloth—and voila, you’re Adam or Eve. Others may want to just keep it simple and use only a sheet, and that’s acceptable too. Draw some fake abdominal muscles onto your stomach and you are Apollo or Aphrodite. The limits are endless when making a toga costume; you just need to know your ancient history.

Regular and conventional objects you find

Images: www.anthropologie.com, www.una.com, www.dimensionsguide.com, www.thisnext.com

around your house, dorm rooms, or just in everyday life always make for good costumes. They may not be very flashy, but they’re easy, straightforward and everyone will know what you’re trying to achieve.

Sophomore Hannah Reagan suggests the “stoplight” costume. Girls can easily wear a plain black dress, boys can wear a black shirt and pant combination, and that’s all that is needed. Then, cut three large circles— one red, one yellow and one green—and attach them to your outfit. Quick and simple.

Sophomore Jenna Niedermayer is already one step ahead in DIY Halloween costumes. She relayed numerous ideas that are cheap and easy. The first was a “Hot Tamale”—which could also fit into the candy category. This would be executed purely by wearing a bright red dress, and maybe matching red heels. Another color-oriented costume idea she had was to be a highlighter. All you need to do is find neon-colored clothing, shoes, hair accessories and the like, and you will become a human highlighter. Perhaps the most creative idea thrown around was her next suggestion: grapes. Niedermayer explained that all you need to do is find a green dress (for girls), or a green shirt (for boys) and brown bottoms. Then attach a multitude of blown-up green balloons to your body, and you’re set! This idea could also be extended to purple grapes or cherries.

For the students who are 21 and older, perhaps you’d like to take an unconventional route. This category seems to be the most popular for the guys, and that is costumes that are alcohol-related. Senior Shawn Corcoran tells of his self-made costume which is much more convenient than anything store bought.

We all know there will be plenty of Halloween parties, so after he’s consumed a few adult beverages, he will simply carry around a flag of some sort. The flag may be an actual cloth flag, or it may be a toothpick with a paper towel attached to it, whichever is the simplest to obtain. Thus, Corcoran will be “flagged” for Halloween. Other alcohol-related costumes may include “tipsy,” where one merely holds the Leaning Tower of Pisa-stance all night, or a beer keg, when wrapping yourself in foil and attaching a pump to your head constitutes a valid costume.

Finally, we have the more scandalous of the categories. To quote the movie “Mean Girls,” “Halloween is the one night a year when girls can dress like a total slut, and no other girls can say anything about it.” And that idea proves to be true for the most part. Many girls simply buy a pair of animal ears, pair them with lingerie, and call it a costume. This phenomenon has been going on across college campuses everywhere, and it is a tradition that is still very popular.

Although these costumes won’t be the most extravagant, you will definitely earn some compliments and maybe a few double takes. Whether you’re running on a tight budget, or you just didn’t feel like making that trip to the Halloween store this year, just remember there are always ingredients for a costume just inside your closet.

campus life

October 28, 2010

the Etownian

campus proposals

Young engaged couples share stories Kelly J. Clayton Staff Writer

I

n the May 2010 edition of Time magazine, an article was published titled “Are Marriage Statistics Divorced from Reality?”

Studies in the article revealed that in the 1980s, 65 percent of college graduates who said “I do” before their 26th birthday remained together 20 years later. The article also declared, Reactions to Emily and “50 percent of Gabe’s engagement ... those who mar“Finally!” ried young without a college degree didn’t make it to 20 years after.” The article shows that less educated, lower income co ur tes couples split up more often yp ho than college graduates. to Elizabethtown College rival Messiah College has a campus-wide joke: “ring by spring” — many students are hopeful for an engagement by spring of their junior or senior year. At Etown, however, that joke doesn’t apply because engagements are less popular.

Although engagements are not particularly common at Etown among undergrads, there are always exceptions.

Engaged Blue Jay lovebirds include senior Emily Knitter to junior Gabriel Robinson. Seniors Jessica Mathews and Stephanie Reynard are engaged to off-campus sweethearts.

All of these fiancés are planning to get married fresh out of Etown and have high hopes with limited fears for their futures.

Stephanie has been with her fiancé, Kyle, for over five years and became engaged on December 4, 2009. They plan to get married May 14, 2011.

“Kyle is active duty in the United States Coast Guard,” Stephanie said. “In January he will be attending Officer Candidate School, which implies limited communication throughout the four months leading up to the wedding date. He decided to propose early so that we would have an ample amount of time to plan together; just as the motto of

U.S. Coast Guard goes, Semper Paratus (always prepared).”

Stephanie said that it was just common knowledge that she and Kyle were going to get married someday. “A positive to getting married young is the fact that in the military community, most couples are married young so I will be among others like me,” she said.

With her friends and family giving Stephanie full support, she said, “I am not worried one bit. After being separated by college for four years, we want to be together for a while.

Plus, I want to be able to be a part of Kyle’s adventure in the Coast Guard, travel with him and have a wonderful life.”

Jessica has been engaged to her fiancé Nathan since May 20, 2010 and is planning to say “I do” in the fall of 2011. Jess said that the reason they decided to get engaged so early was because “we are in love and it felt right. We’ve been together for over five years and have been talking and planning our future together forever. He put a lot of effort into planning the ring and all, so it was the right time. Plus I need time to plan!”

Jessica said that although she knows that the odds are against them, she feels that they are both willing to fight for their relationship and will be in it for the long haul.

While Jess admits that some people say she is being young and naive, she explains, “My friends and family are really excited! They know us apart and together. They can’t wait; in their eyes it’s been a long time coming.”

It isn’t the fear of a high divorce rate for young couples that scares Jess, but the fact that she will have to live with a guy. Since Jess has never had a male in her house (other than her father), she said that it ought to be an adventure to live with Nathan. “I want to move to the West Coast and travel before we settle down anywhere,” she said. “I want to do that with my best friend. That’s Nathan. I want to experience life with him, and most of that is happening now!”

Etown couple Gabe and Emily became engaged at sunset on September 10, 2010, and are planning to tie the knot in fall of 2012. With a solid two years ahead of them, Gabe said, “I felt it was time. I really love her and wanted the commitment that came with being engaged.”

Gabe and Emily have dated for almost six years.

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Compiled by Campus Security and Joelle E. Atkinson Assistant Campus Life Editor • An act of vandalism was reported to Campus Security on Oct. 24. A Dining Services golf cart’s lights were left on and in turn drained the battery. It was also found that the golf cart had been stolen and driven around before it was later recovered.

• Also on Oct. 24, a loud party was reported in the Vera H. Hackman Apartment Complex. What Security thought would only be a noise violation turned into an alcohol violation as well.

• Two bikes were reported stolen outside of Royer Residence Hall Oct. 25.

• On Oct. 25, a male student reported his truck vandalized.

The driver went to visit his vehicle in J-Lot outside the Apartments and found feminine hygiene products stuck all over his truck. Though they were easy to remove, he is now left with multiple pieces of adhesive to clean up.

Emily first spotted Gabe at an eighth grade choir concert, and called “dibs” on him for being cute.

Gabe knew that it was time to pop the question over the summer when the couple really missed each other when they spent time apart, and Gabe decided that he wanted to spend the rest of his days with Emily.

“Something that I love about Gabe is that over the years, our relationship has grown to the point where he’s a part of my family,” Emily said.

When their families found out about the engagement, Gabe said they were “absolutely thrilled! My parents love Emily very much, and so do my friends.

Since we have been dating so long, most people’s reaction is, finally!”

The couple’s biggest fear is money, given the economy.

They are hoping to pay off college loans as soon as possible and travel as much as they can while they are young.

These Etown couples aren’t worried about the divorce rate or not making it in the long run. On the contrary, they are confident that their love will last and blossom over time.

student activities series

Are we forgetting our education’s founding values?

Nicole M. St. Pierre Staff Writer

“E

ducate for service!” This has been the motto of Elizabethtown College for years. Etown prides itself on its students’ interest in helping others and getting involved in the community. However, it seems that students are beginning to move away from the tradition of educating through community service and are instead getting deeply involved in numerous other activities. With the addition of new clubs, and events popping up around campus every day, it’s no wonder students are finding themselves conflicted between commitments with extracurricular organizations and the various service events for which Etown is known.

“In my opinion, sometimes students lose the idea of the ‘bigger picture’… I think people just get caught up in being in clubs but not applying the same skills to the community,” junior Alysa Poindexter said. As a member of seven different clubs on campus, Poindexter said she thinks a big part of the problem is that students forget about the community outside of Etown, which would readily accept our involvement. So many clubs are demanding our time and attention that, after we attend all of those

meetings and events, it’s difficult to motivate ourselves to do anything but eat, sleep and finish schoolwork. And even finding that balance is proving more and more difficult.

Not only are students getting caught between clubs and volunteer work, but classes and homework provide another glitch in students’ schedules. “I think people are too involved,” sophomore Joanna Gruber said.

Gruber, who is involved in three clubs at Etown, notes that students are spreading themselves too thin, but not just with classes and studying, but with all of their extracurriculars. “They don’t even have time to do their schoolwork to the best of their abilities because of all the activities and jobs they have,” Gruber said.

Senior Kate Walsh agrees it’s often difficult for students to determine where or what they most want to give their time to. Walsh is also involved in three on-campus clubs, one of which is service-based. “I think that people are struggling to figure out what’s the most important factor in their life and concentrate on that. It’s all well and good that someone’s involved in a million things on campus, but if you can’t keep your grades up, then it’s not really going to matter in the end.”

Perhaps it is up to the clubs on campus, and those organizing service activities,

to find a means of compromising so that students who are interested can participate in both without feeling that they’re being overworked. However, it might be advantageous of those organizing volunteer events to contact the executive cabinets of campus clubs to discuss conflicts, and vice-versa.

It seems entirely likely that, if students felt they had the time and ability to participate in both service projects and campus activities, they would.

Not only does time prove to be a significant issue, but promotion seems to be lacking as well. If the incentives of getting involved in community service were more widely known, it might persuade a larger number of students to give their time.

“I think it’s probably ... the fact that people aren’t motivated enough to help others out. They need more of a reason to get out and volunteer than what they’re being given,” Walsh pointed out. If more students knew the kind of résumé-builders one gains

from spending a few hours working with children, picking up trash or helping out at a nursing home, they might be that much more excited to sign up for the work. We all know it can be a great reputation-booster to say we’ve served on this or that executive cabinet or organized a dance as a fundraiser for a club.

But the same can be said for service: going out and contributing time to worthy causes in the community shows future employers, and whoever else may look at your résumé, that you have an interest in helping others and the initiative to invest some of your free time into making a change.

Joining clubs and volunteering on your college campus is a great way to new friends, contribute to the campus community and have tons of fun in the process. Unfortunately, it seems that now, more than ever, we’re finding that there just aren’t enough hours in the day. But with a little more focus on what we really want to do, it might not be so hard for us to strike the right balance and give our time to those who need it most.

Images: www.etown.edu, images.clipartof.com

8

the Etownian

campus life

Kara J. Burkholder Staff Writer Looking for a new game to waste some extra time? Farmville has got you covered.

Farmville is a real-time, virtual gaming experience on the social networking site Facebook that was launched June 19, 2009. It has more than 24 million active users, and 10 percent of all Facebook users play.

The company behind the program is Zynga, the largest developer of social games, and social it certainly is.

One of the biggest components of the game is how many of a player’s friends are playing the game, too. To better understand this, let’s break down what Farmville actually is.

When it first started, Farmville was pretty simple: all a Facebook member had to do was create an avatar and start planting crops. It has become a bit more complicated since then. After creating an avatar, a player gets a square piece of land where he or she can plant crops. Each of the crops has different prices and growing times, and if they aren’t harvested in time, they die, which costs the player money. This is what gets the player to log in frequently-to check on his or her crops. If the fields are correctly harvested,the player earns money and points, a new level is achieved by attaining more points and each level gives the player more options as far as what kind of crops she or he can buy.

Of course, there is much more to it than that. Players also have the option of buying animals, buildings, such as barns and houses, and landscaping items, such as ponds and hedges, among other things. During holiday seasons, players are encouraged to buy decorations for their farms. They can also buy more Farmville currency in order to add to their farms.

The social aspect of the game comes into the equation with a player’s Farmville “neighbors.” These neighbors are friends, also playing the game, and players sometimes need their help to move up in the game. Gifts are exchanged between friends, including animals, decorations and other products from the farms.

So why is it so addicting? Farmville thrives off of its subtle publicity. It’s hard to log on to Facebook without being bombarded by Farmville updates from friends who are playing; Not only are they everywhere, but the updates often implore people for help. For example, a friend starts a new building “project” on Farmville and receives this message: “You’ve started building your Nursery Barn — a building to house your baby foals and calves! Let your friends know so they can send you construction materials!” Of course, she wants help because her barn will be finished more quickly if she gets the assistance of her friends. Soon all of her friends’ news feeds are inundated with messages asking for their help. This is one of the main tricks Farmville uses for adding new players. It’s so easy to get caught in the game — as soon as you click one of those updates, you’re playing.

Even though the buzz around Farmville has died down a little in the last few months (with the exception of the news that Zynga was possibly scamming users), most Elizabethtown College students have heard of the game. “I’ve never played it,” sophomore Holly Bubb said. “I think it’s pointless.”

“I used to play Farmville because it was something fun and mindless to do when I just was looking for something to procrastinate with,” senior Juli Hadinger said. “I haven’t played it since last school year just because, well, I have better things to do.”

But college students aren’t the only ones getting addicted to Farmville. “My parents are big into Farmville!” senior Christie Caldwell said. “My parents are so into it, they stay up for hours just waiting for their crops to grow, so they can harvest and sell them. Then they do it all over again, keeping track of the time, so their crops don’t rot.”

Hadinger has witnessed similar phenomena. “My manager’s mum is big into Farmwille,” Hadinger said.

“She even sets alarms to get her crops and such. It’s crazy.”

Meanwhile, Zynga is making big bucks off of their gaming services. There is widespread speculation about how much the company is making, with estimates ranging between $240 million and $600 million in the last year. Either way, one thing is for sure: Farmville is growing the company plenty of green.

October 28, 2010

October 28, 2010

campus life

the Etownian

Robert E. Koehler Staff Writer New games on Facebook are slowly sweeping the nation, and it seems that one cannot log on without being bombarded by hundreds of gaming invitations. One of these many games is Farmville, an interactive scenario where users can control their own virtual farms by planting and growing virtual crops and raising cattle. Farmville players make up over 10 percent of all Facebook users, and the application currently boasts over 24.6 million members. Recently however, Farmville has been getting some more negative responses than ever before.

As of last week, Facebook has publicly been taking some heat for privacy breaches in the Farmville game. It was recently found that many popular applications such as Farmville have been providing access to people’s names and friend’s names to advertising and other Internet companies. The Wall Street Journal discovered this flaw, which is reported to have affected tens of millions of users. People have the option to change their privacy settings on Facebook, which control how much information people can see about them. Farmville reportedly also leaks information even from people with the strictest privacy settings, which breaks Facebook’s terms of use.

Many critics pose the question of how easy it is for Facebook to fix such a breach of information in the near future. A spokesperson for Facebook said they are taking steps to dramatically limit the exposure of users’ personal information; however, this does not alleviate people’s fears.

This study revealed that the top ten Facebook applications were also sending out users’ private information. Some of these applications include Texas HoldEm Poker, FrontierVille, and MafiaWars, all of which were developed by gaming company Zynga.

Many people are saying that this may lead to the permanent destruction of the game, while others think that the problem is fixable. Facebook has begun to block people from using these selected applications that “go against their terms of use.” Starting last week, users who attempted to access these applications received an error message or were sent back to the Facebook home screen. Facebook is still working on getting all the bugs out of this problem and is hoping to have the games restored. Others now have trust issues with the games under investigation, and aren’t sure if they want to bother using them again.

Every Facebook user has a specific “Facebook ID” which is represented by a number.

Facebook IDs can show people’s names, as well as all of the names of their friends. These IDs are what the various games are releasing, and some users are not happy. Some of the game’s biggest fans are college students, and they are unaware that this is even occurring. Sophomore Adam Thompson was an avid Farmville player, but once he heard of this scandal, he stopped playing.

“I think privacy on the Internet is really important, especially in today’s society,” Thompson said. “I definitely have to be more careful now of the games I am playing, and think about where information that I am entering is going.”

Many other students agree that this is not surprising news at all. Sophomore Samantha Segraves has come to expect this kind of thing and is not surprised by Facebook’s latest breach of privacy. “Whenever you enter any kind of information online, its never completely private.

It’s almost like writing in ink instead of pencil.”

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10

campus life

the Etownian

October 28, 2010

community events

celebrity dish

Stars shoot nude; Jay-Z shoots blanks Trick or treat Joelle E. Atkinson Assistant Campus Life Editor

I

n our culture, we are obsessed with celebrities. We love what they wear, what they do, where they shop and occasionally, we watch their shows and movies.But what happens when two gorgeous, famous people get married? That’s right, they have beautiful, famous, expensive-clothes-wearing, perfect children. What do we love more than celebrities? Their kids!

People.com has a section devoted entirely to celebrity spawn. Over the last few days, several couples have had babies, including Celine Dion, Matt Damon and his wife, and now, one of the most powerful couples in Hollywood is said to be expecting.

Are they or aren’t they… Last week, rumors swirled that Beyoncé was having a baby with her husband, rap superstar Jay-Z. Us Magazine reported that an unnamed source claimed the R&B duo were expecting and Internet websites went rampant with the information, while Beyoncé’s mother, Tina Knowles, was left to put rumors to rest. She went on the Ellen DeGeneres show and publicly stated that she will not be expecting grandchildren from her eldest daughter anytime soon. “No, it’s not true. Not right now,” she said. She joked with DeGeneres that “With all the rumors, by now I should have about five or six grandchildren.”

The Fresh Prince’s daughter is gettin’ fresh… 9-year-old Willow Smith,

daughter of rap and movie icon Will Smith and actress Jada Pinkett-Smith, has had the internet abuzz this past week with the premiere of her new music video, “Whip My Hair.” The video features the youngest Smith with several different hair styles and shows off her impressive vocals and rap skills; the pre-teen seems to have a serious future in the music industry.

Are “Glee” stars getting too glamourous… The stars of “Glee” sure seem to be comfortable with their celebrity… and their sexuality. In the November 2010 issue of GQ the female cast members, Dianna Agron and Lea Michele, posed alongside male star Cory Monteith in a sexy spread. The photos, which display half-naked versions of Agron and Michele, have caused outrage among critics nationwide, especially the Parents Television Council.

Many have stated that these stars should maintain a somewhat wholesome image as they are in a crucial role model position for young fans and dressing scantily-clad in a school setting is not appropriate.

Agron followed up the photo spread with an apology on her blog, stating: “If you are hurt or these photos make you uncomfortable, it was never our intention. And if your 8-year-old has a copy of our GQ cover in hand, again I am sorry. But I would have to ask, how on earth did it get there?”

Following the GQ controversy, Playgirl offered co-stars Mark Salling

and newcomer Chord Overstreet $100,000 to bare it all for their publication.

California Girl and British comedian get hitched… Katy Perry and Russell Brand, who met at the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards, w e r e married this past weekend in India.

The two had a private traditional Indian ceremony with select family and friends pre s e nt . T h e couple had a celebratory weekend, complete with a Bollywood prewedding party and complimentary shopping and safaris for their guests. Perry wore the traditional marriage nose ring, which is supposed to be removed by the groom on the wedding night.

Brand played out the traditional role of the bridegroom and did an Indian grand entrance on an elephant. Since then, they have been surrounded by armed guards throughout the nuptial weekend.

And that’s your Celebrity Dish!

psychological perspective

Are we too concerned about looks?

Johanna H. Goslin Staff Writer

T

hink of your morning routine. How do you decide what clothes you are going to wear for the day? Do you choose your look based on comfort, trends or what will impress that special someone? Appearance is important and as the youth of America we are influenced by what television, magazines and the Internet tells us is fashionable or cool. This becomes the focus, rather than what feels good and is comfortable.

We’ve all poked fun at the college girl uniform: UGG Boots and The North Face Jacket.

These two brands are popular amongst youth for cold-weather wear.

Students spend upwards of $150 on each item, solely to keep up their appearance. Generic brands do not cost as much, and are very similar to their

pr i c i e r c ou nt e r p a r t s .

However, they do not carry name recognition.

This is just one example of the amount of effort put into appearances.

Our jewelry, automobiles, electronics, clothes and even our online profiles illustrate an obsession with exterior looks.

The debate on which gender cares more about a person’s appearance is complex. Psychology professor Dr. John Teske argues that both genders focus on different aspects of their appearances.

“When a woman is looking for a mate, she is looking for health and appearance, but she’s also looking for some other features, long term stability and commitment. But for a male, those things are less important. Are these differences large?

I don’t think they are as large as people think they are. I think that women pay more attention to their appearance because

it gets them a little bit farther than men, but [they also pay attention] to different things,” Teske said.

Junior business administration major Devon Felder disagreed with Dr. Teske. “I think that girls at Etown care very much about their appearance.

If other girls don’t fit into the mold of fake hair, tan skin, club wear and fake nails [they are negatively judged]. Whenever I wear sweats I feel like other girls stare at me and look down on me.”

Fe m a l e s o f t e n f e e l pressured into putting more money and effort into their own appearance with various make-up, hair product and weight loss measures.

At Etown, the way we present ourselves is important, especially for bus i ness maj ors . T he dress code is meant to ready students for the professional world. “I believe that the dress code for business classes en-

courages students to put more effort into their appearance, but people don’t look down on other people for the shoes they wear or their clothing,” Felder said. High heels and sports jackets are an everyday look in Hoover.

Social networking websites also exemplify attention on appearance. Students post information on profiles for others to see and judge. “People spend so much time and put so much effort into what they post, but do other people read it? There are so many things on people’s profiles, but does anyone put the effort in to read it?” Teske asked.

Ap p e a r a n c e s h a v e become the focus, and s ometimes obs ession, of many people. These foci may be driven by peers, media and school courses. There is a focus on appearance, but if people know that the way they look works for them, there is no wrong in that.

Brett A. Antosh Staff Writer

O

ctober 28 from 6-8 p.m., Student Senate will hold its second-annual Trick or Treat for community service at Elizabethtown College. This is a community based event, and anyone from the age of 1-99 in the Etown Community is welcome to come in costume to the College for trick-or-treating.

The two-year-old event was created by alumnus Kevin Smith ’10 to build a better relationship with the Etown Community. “This event is very beneficial to the community and the College. Efforts like this allow for an extension of communication so that we all can live harmoniously in Elizabethtown. Student groups have the ability to publicize their purpose and events, and community members enjoy an awesome night on the campus,” said Publicity and Marketing Chair sophomore Donte McCraryMcClain.

Senate President senior Monica Natividad said, “This event shows student initiative. The College is a big part of the town and this event is a great time to build a better bond and bridge the gap with the Elizabethtown Community.”

“Although almost everything is the same as last year, we have a very special costume contest this year and a scary story reading,” said Natividad. “We’re also looking for judges for the contest.”

According to McCrary-McClain, the criteria for the contest “include[s] originality, creativity, and attitude and acting ability while playing up the costume.” Natividad wants students to get into the Halloween spirit, too. “Definitely come out in costume or help a student group,” she said.

Almost 80 student organizations and clubs are expected to participate in the event, either giving out candy, helping with the costume contest, or interacting in the community. Participating clubs include Habitat 4 Humanity, Social Work Student Association and Melica.

The event has obviously expanded a lot. “Last year we had 15 different student groups with two to three people at a table,” said Natividad. “Most of the students stayed for the whole event, but it is great to see this many students getting involved.”

With an event of this magnitude and importance, a lot of advertising needed to be done. “Publicity efforts were concentrated in the elementary schools of the Elizabethown School District. Promotional flyers were sent to the schools, along with a letter explaining the event,” said McCary-McClain. “Additionally, I contacted the Borough and the Chamber of Commerce to formulate a proper date and to get promotion extended to businesses.

Members of the Student Senate have holdings on several committees, and individuals on committees that involve the community have stated that community members are very excited for the event.”

Another returning event from last year is the Elizabethtown Fire Department at the High Library. Trick-or-Treaters were in awe of the fire truck that was parked in front of the Library. “The Fire Department was a huge part of last year’s event,” said Natividad. “We are very fortunate to have them back again.”

Trick or Treat 2010 will begin in room 110 of the James B. Hoover Center for Business.

Adult supervision is required for all partici-

Images: www.chicaandjo.com, www.ragingrouge.com

October 28, 2010

opinion

campus controversies • letters to the editor

on campus

First senior night disappoints Melanie R. Giardina Campus Life Editor

F

Images: www.cantonfristfriday.com

or the past three years, I have looked forward to one perk of becoming a senior: finally being able to attend senior night. Senior year can be a stressful time, and I was excited that Elizabethtown College provided a responsible way to unload stress and reconnect with classmates.

To my disappointment, I found out that senior nights were remodeled this year.

According to jun i or S e n ate representative Lauren Viguers, liability issues associated with busing students directly to a bar led to the re-modification. I feel that though our College does not want to promote drinking, busing students to and from bars was a great way to encourage responsible drinking among Etown seniors.

“It is disappointing that we won’t be able to have the same experience that many of the classes ahead of us had” senior Abbie Heller said. And I agree with her whole heartedly. In past years I watched my upperclassman friends return from senior night with great stories and a reconnection with their classmates.

I think one of the best parts of senior nights is a chance

for the senior class to gather together. We are all involved in different activities and live in different places. Senior night was a great way for us to be around each other and rekindle friendships lost in the past three years.

My first senior night, however, did not give me a chance to connect to my fellow seniors.

Though I had a great night, I felt that I did not have the same opportunity to interact with my class as past years have been given.

First Friday is a great place to spend the first of the month, but I felt that it was not the best place to bring the senior class together. In such a crowded and large area, it is difficult to interact with people outside the your group.

This past senior night, Friday Oct. 1, the buses failed to come to pick up students. According to Viguers, it was due to a mistake by the bus company who sent

their buses Saturday to pick up students instead of Friday. This in no way reflects on the College, but I do feel for the students who were unable to attend senior night for lack of transportation.

Heller recommends that the College still bus senior students to bar locations but try to promote other aspects of the night besides drinking, such as sending students to a karaoke bar and focusing more the event than the alcohol present.

To me this is a great idea, but if the College still is hesitant to bus student to a bar, I would recommend looking into a more centralized location such as Folklore Coffee and Company.

Located in Elizabethtown, this location would provide a great place to bring together seniors. Folklore’s ability to host live music adds to its appeal for a senior night venue.

In my mind, senior nights are a time for the class to come together during their last months as students. The class of 2011 Senate representatives have a challenge on their hands: upholding the tradition of senior nights past and finding new and entertaining locations to send seniors.

Heller sums it up perfectly: “Senate should be commended for coming up with creative alternatives under new restrictions.”

is sponsoring a campus-wide photo contest!

Help us to design our website’s new header.

Submit original photos of prominent campus features to the Etownian’s

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Winning submissions will be recognized on the website and in the Dec.10 issue.

the Etownian

11

national debate • our take • guest columns

horoscope

Ross M. Benincasa Managing Editor

M

y horoscope this week is aimed at a strange creature: the Sagittarius. Although often considered to be humorous and generous, the Sagittarius often takes on too many challenges at once and will say anything that’s on their mind no matter what the situation.

These traits are also usually transferred to the bedroom, where the use of props and mother-deafening slurs are certainly not out of the question. This is often where Sagittarius students run into trouble with their nonSagittarius roommates, who may think you’re screaming for help or ask why the remote was wet.

Unfortunately, you Sagittarius students also don’t share your Zodiac sign with many high-profile people. There are not many successful members of society who also claim to be Sagittarius, unless you consider Miley Cyrus and Vanessa Hudgens successful, that is. This brings about a necessity for you to be extra

ambitious in all your activities. Start this week and do an extra page for one of your assignments or study for just an extra hour. These tactics will truly help you get over the speed bump of being a Sagittarius and accomplish your goals. That is, unless your goals consist of being a washed up Disney star tainted by the strike of Walt’s pimp hand.

Due to the Sagittarius’ love of the outdoors, you should also take advantage of the sunny weather projected for the coming week. Take a stroll through the Dell or ride your bike around the borough, and take in the remaining days of fall before the true cold sets in.

You may want to even take your significant other on an outdoor date, possibly hiking or a picnic off-campus. If you are poor and can’t afford transportation, or are too lazy to hike, I suppose you can just set up a picnic in the Dell. But don’t expect your partner to stay committed to your obtuse derriere for very long, because if there’s one thing you can learn from the Jersey Shore, it’s that even the sleaziest, most orange half-breeds don’t like grenades. And being broke isn’t cute, it’s just another sign that you’re a lazy cow and would rather the shame of an on-campus date than just getting a job.

Although this horoscope may seem a bit negatively spun for the Sagittarius, don’t worry too much, as you’re often considered very easy-going by your friends and family. Therefore, you should be able to work through whatever problems may come up. After all of this, the important thing to remember is that whatever issues present themselves can always be resolved and, no, you will never have to succumb to the prostitution ring that is the Disney Channel.

Images: www.clipartof.com

d n ou

S Off

If you could create your own major, what would it be?

by Matthew P. Butera

Doug Solorzano Class of 2013

“Turf Management.”

Erika Shimokaze Class of 2012

“Cooking.”

October 28, 2010

study skills

Concerts lack publicity, lose audience

Rachel E. Barr Staff Writer

M

any of us don’t know about the many concerts held by the various choirs and bands on campus, yet it’s common knowledge among Elizabethtown students when concerts are held for a cappella groups like Melica and Phalanx. So, what’s makes the difference between these groups? It may be because they have very different forms of publicity.

The popular groups on campus perform at different venues throughout the year, keeping themselves in the minds of the students. Just last week, Melica and Vocalign performed at the Stoplight Social. There are also giant posters hung in the Brossman Commons that are in the direct eye line of students eating in the Marketplace. Besides these posters, there are also flyers posted around campus advertising the group and posting in the SWEET calendars. The a cappella groups can take advantage of these advertising venues because they are clubs on campus that are sponsored by the Office of Student Activities.

However, the choirs and bands on campus are considered classes, so they must use different publicity methods. Instead of utilizing OSA, they use the Fine and Performing Arts calendar and are also in the College’s Cultural Events listings.

“Perhaps our biggest draws have been after sending direct mailings to Alumni,” Associate Professor of Music Matthew Fritz said. “But those are unique events coupled

with other occasions and are, as you can imagine, very expensive.” They have tried to use flyers several times, but this helped generate only a small amount of interest.

Both student-led and class groups rely on Campus Connections to get information out to students and faculty, but recently this has become a problem. Campus Connections will always send out the information, but because emails are sent out three times a week, students have begun to ignore them.

Their inboxes are so full that they either skim the email, or skip over it entirely.

Since Campus Connections is used by the choirs and bands instead of flyers, the dates and times of when to see performances are left unopened in cyber space. As Fritz said, “It seems a fundamental problem is a lack of a central, campus-wide calendar where faculty, staff and students can find out events on campus.”

As a member of Women’s Chorus, I’ve seen firsthand the lack of audience at concerts. Publicity is not the only problem in the lack of interest shown in choir and band concerts. Compared to other groups on campus, the music performed is not as current.

“I’m aware that the repertoire is not of particular interest to the average student,” Dani Cantor, member of Women’s Chorus and Assistant Copy Editor, said.

The songs are beautiful, difficult pieces that are sometimes international or based on songs written hundreds of years ago.

However, no matter how funny or interesting the songs are, they are still just choir

songs or band songs. They can’t compete with the modern pop songs being performed by the a cappella groups because those songs are more well known.

This leads to self-consciousness amongchoir and band members, eliminating word of mouth advertising. Many members aren’t mentioning that they are performing to their friends and roommates. They don’t tell students to come see them, or promote the concert to classmates, because they feel that no one would be interested in coming to see the show. Although there is a good number of people who would come to the concert if they knew about it, such as music majors and students who were in choir in high school, many would not know enough about the intricacies of the melody to understand and enjoy the music as a whole.

It all simply comes down to demographics: which group is interested in what is being publicized, and which group will simply forget the information as soon as they’re told about it?

“If you advertise at the library and local churches you’ll get more people from the community who are more interested in the music that will be sung at the choir concerts,” Women’s Chorus member Heather Brule said.

Maybe the problem is that there needs to be more advertising directed at people who are interested in choir and band concerts. That way, the crowds at performances will be made up of more than family, faculty members and the occasional student.

Health

Disabled peers have chance for education Patricia A. Cangelosi Copy Editor

T Adam Reese Class of 2011

“Video gaming.

Straight up.”

Abbey Kramer Class of 2011

“Philadelphia Sports Media” Make sure to check out the Sound Off poll and the latest issue on our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/etownian

he number of programs on college campuses continent-wide that give intellectually disabled students the opportunity to attend and “experience college life” has increased over 60-fold in the past eight years, according to a recent USA Today article.

First of all, what does intellectual disability even mean? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Department of Health and Human Services published a useful fact sheet, designed for concerned parents, to answer this difficult question.

According to this document (found at www.cdc.gov), intellectual disability refers to any restrictions that prevent people from learning and functioning at a normal level for their age. Some of the more common intellectual disabilities include Down syndrome, fetal alcohol syndrome, autism and other various birth defects.

In the education world, the practice of integrating students with disabilities and their non-disabled peers in the same classes, known as inclusion, is somewhat controversial. Though it has been a hot topic among teachers, administrators and parents for decades as it pertains to K-12 education, only in the past few years have people started engaging in serious discussions about inclusion in college.

An Oct. 17 article in USA Today highlights a program at the University of Central

Missouri specifically designed for students with disabilities. According to the article, in 2002, four such programs were available; in 2009, over 250 existed in the United States and Canada.

As one might imagine, an inclusive classroom in college is different from its non-inclusive counterpart. The broader the range of abilities in any given classroom, the tougher it will be for the instructor to teach. To address this issue, according to USA Today, “Professors sometimes are advised to modify the integrated classes by doing things like shifting away from a format that relies entirely on lectures and adding more projects in which students can work in groups.”

For me, this is where the trouble starts.

Of course, it is a valid argument that lecturing is not always the most effective way to teach, but once the teaching begins to focus exclusively on the minority of students, it fails. Educators always question whether lessons should be “teacher-centered” or “student-centered;” I believe it should be learning-centered. As the format of the class is manipulated to cater to students with certain disabilities, which often includes asking non-disabled students to help disabled students with the material, education loses its meaning. It is not students’ jobs to teach their peers or waste time reviewing material they have already mastered. They go to school to learn new concepts.

According to USA Today, the point of accepting students with intellectual disabilities to college is not necessarily about earning a degree; in fact, it states explicitly that “only a small percentage” will receive a degree. Debra Hart of the Institute for Community Inclusion at the University of Massachusetts Boston claims that inclusive programs are effective because “participants can go on to do everything from being a librarian’s assistant to data-entry work in an office” (quoting from article’s narrative, not Hart’s exact words). It is wonderful that individuals with intellectual disabilities can now obtain jobs like these, but do they really need a college education?

College is expensive, and prices are constantly rising. The economy is suffering because goods and services are costly, and people cannot afford them. Why must so much government money fund programs that do not serve a significant purpose?

According to the article, Congress set aside $10.56 million for 27 “model projects” to “identify successful approaches” to educating disabled students at colleges and universities. If these students are not even receiving degrees and are getting jobs that could be obtained without attending college, why is so much money being spent for them to go to college?

Images: www.ateliertutors.com

Images: www.easdmusicclub.org

12

opinion

the Etownian

opinion

October 28, 2010

the Etownian

college admissions

Applications for sale, integrity challenged Katie G. Pebley Staff Writer

R

emember all the work you did in high school to ensure that you would look great on a college application? Remember how all that effort determined whether or not you got into college at all, let alone the college of your choice?

Thanks to a new website, high school students can purchase successful college applications.

WeGotIn.net currently includes 21 applications to Brown University and 14 applications to Columbia University. Students can buy the Brown or Columbia applications as bundles for $19.99 or download all 35 applications for $34.99. These packages consist of full responses to each question on the application, but they do not list the personal information of the applicant. The applications were collected from admitted students in exchange for a flat fee of up to $100, even though the applications can be sold many times. The group behind the website is Application Project Inc. Its founder, Howard Yaruss, has plans to get in touch with students from all of the Ivy League schools and MIT by 2011. He has stated that he considers the price tag of the bundles a bargain.

Many people believe that he is crossing a serious line. Alice Kleeman, a college counselor at MenloAtherton High School outside San Francisco, Calif., told the Chronicle of Higher Education, “Even if students have the integrity not to simply lift responses from these applications, the site could also have the potential of causing students to believe that they should submit something just

like these, rather than their own authentic application. I would hate to see my students spending money for something like this.”

While we all understand the desire to submit a successful application to the college of our dreams, this website takes the concept of helping students get admitted a bit too far. A college application is supposed to show a school who you really are and what you will contribute to the campus community, but that idea is shattered when you use someone else’s opinions to influence your response.

This could be a problem at a college like Elizabethtown, where we have a Pledge of Integrity. This pledge means that we strive to behave toward each other with civility and respect for the rights of others. We are expected to represent work as ours only when it is our own, refraining from lying, plagiarizing and cheating. Every first-year who comes to Etown should be aware of the existence of our Pledge of Integrity and be fully ready to commit to it. If you come in with an application that is not your own, you’ve already trounced the beliefs of this institution.

Our College offers an alternative: talking to a current student. Students can give prospective applicants an idea of what the school is looking for in new students without completely spelling it out for them.“Students

who can contribute to the campus community have the advantage,” according to the Admissions portion of our own website. It warns applicants about what is needed on their applications: “Be sure to fully share your personality, your strengths and your distinction throughout this application process. Whether it be on your tour, during your interview, or in your application, show us the real you.” While Etown doesn’t belong to the prestigious Ivy League, we can assume that they are just as strict, if not more, about the integrity of their students.

The existence of this website exclusively for the Ivies makes sense, since they are considered to be the most difficult schools to get into, but that doesn’t make it right.

Bravo to all the people whose applications were a success and therefore appear on this website but shame on you for putting them there. I am all for students receiving help from counselors and advisors during the application process, but you are changing the face of your school by helping students get in who basically copied off of your brilliance. It will be your fault if your prestigious university goes downhill from here, turning into a student body with no creativity or integrity.

college majors

Individualized majors offer specialization Kelly J. Clayton Staff Writer

W

elcome to Elizabethtown College and the home the fighting Blue Jays, home of the occasional sweet smell of chocolate.

We offer 56 academic majors along with 92 minors and/or concentrations. We are a liberal arts school that focuses on providing a well-rounded education in the arts, sciences and humanities.

Does this sound familiar? You have probably heard or seen it in a brochure or on a tour while you were a prospective student.

While the brochures and tour guide speeches win over 500 students every year, after being at Etown for nearly three years, I’ve started to wonder whether the College offers enough academic individuality in its programs. I love Etown; there is no doubt or regret in my decision to come here. But I do feel that within areas of study, there isn’t enough individuality or flexibility because of the required core classes which take up our maximum credit space.

At the Gallatin School of Individualized Study, students are given the opportunity to design a program of study tailored to their own needs and interests. The Gallatin School has about 1,200 students and is affiliated with New York University. The Gallatin School says that creating your own program requires maturity, self-motivation and independence.

When comparing Etown and the Gallatin School, a few differences stand out. The Gallatin School isn’t a liberal arts school, so core classes don’t exist and the students focus on their major classes during all four years. Also, the Gallatin School is affiliated with New York University, so they have access to all of NYU’s academic resources.

Yes, Etown is a small liberal arts school in the middle of Lancaster County, but that doesn’t mean it can’t offer individualized programs to help students reach their dream jobs.

Junior communications major Chelsea Decker said, “I am concerned with my major. Communications, as it stands now,

offers a corporate concentration and a mass media concentration, which I feel only emphasizes careers in public relations and news production. I would like to pursue web and graphic design to work in advertising. The only advertising class that Elizabethtown offers isn't even within my own major — it's within the business department.”

Like Decker, junior communications major Bill Blatchley said, “I am hopeful for a future in advertising. I am very worried about my skills in comparison to those from other colleges. I feel like the bigger emphasis shouldn't be on being a well-rounded communications major but on specialized aspects of communications.”

Blatchley plans to attend graduate school immediately after graduation because he believes that his knowledge and abilities will pale in comparison to those educated in better organized and readily available courses at other institutions.

Most jobs in communications are extremely competitive, which could be a reason why Decker and Blatchley are worried and frustrated with the lack of individuality at Etown.

So what can Etown do to help the students gain a unique education? Personally, I feel that if the core classes were shorter or only worth two credits, it would allow for more freedom for classes that are associated with your major and concentration.

Also, for certain departments that are ever-changing because of technology and social media, it may be worth looking into new classes that are up to date.

“If Etown could make core classes that fit into each major/minor, that would help. I would love to take core classes that fit with my interests and with what I want to do,” junior occupational therapy major Cassie Savitz said.

Etown wants its graduates to be threats on the job market. By giving a diverse background in the liberal arts, the College will put Etown grads over bigger university grads because they won’t have a well-rounded background. I think the best combination would be to mix a well-rounded education with individualized programs. Having harmonious programs is what Etown needs in order to mold students into qualified job Images: www.facebook.com/wegotin,www.amherst.edu, www.blogspot.com

13

the Etownian the board

Editor-in-Chief Emily M. Reigart Managing Editor Ross M. Benincasa Assistant Editor Peter S. Northrop News Editor Huntley C. McGowan Features Editor Khouri E. McGrann Campus Life Editor Melanie R. Giardina Opinion Editor Vanessa L. Andrew 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 Tara B. Hayes Craig H. Meaney Brianna E. Wiest Assistant Layout Editor Agnetha C. Serrame Business Manager Marc E. Weber Asst. Business Manager Benjamin L. Frey Advertising Manager Katie L. Bornholdt Assistant Ad. Manager Brooke S. Wachtel Faculty Adviser Kirsten A. Johnson

The Etownian is the student newspaper of Elizabethtown College. All editorial decisions are made by the student editors. With the exception of editorials, opinions presented here are those of quoted sources or signed authors, not of the Etownian or the College.

The Etownian is published most Thursdays during the academic year

by Susquehanna Printing.

Submissions to the Etownian are always welcomed. We will make every effort to print submissions, but we do not promise publication. Submit letters to OPINIONEDITOR@etown.edu.

14

the Etownian

sports

October 28, 2010

field hockey

volleyball

Blue Jays ready for showdowns with Frostburg, Goucher Thomas D. Hagerty Staff Writer

as if it is any other opponent.

“We prepare for evor many teams in different ery game in the same sports, having momentum way,” senior captain going into the playoffs is a big Amanda Ritchey said. deal. Coaches usually like to “I think that playing a end the regular season heading good team at the end into the playoffs on a high note. of our season prior to In the final match of the regular playoffs is a good test of season, the Blue Jays’ volleyball our abilities to how far team will be facing a very strong we’ve come. It is a good Frostburg State University team opportunity for us.” that is 25-3, but Head Coach Senior Kara BurRandall Kreider is not worried kholder agreed: “We about momentum. can only play one game “Our conference playoffs are at a time,” she said.

Photo: EtownBlueJays.com “Playing good teams one-and-done. If you lose, you are out,” Kreider said. “So, we Senior Crystal Agnew (left) and sophomore Lindsay Palm (right) combine for will make you better in need to get in front of some pres- a block against Neumann University on Sept. 24 at Thompson Gymnasium. the end, so that’s what sure before it is the real playoff with over 200 kills for Head Coach we do.” pressure. Playing a team like Frostburg Peter Letourneau’s squad. One of them The Blue Jays will also play host to is a good way to do that.” is senior outside hitter Sarah Stephens, Goucher College this Saturday. The There will certainly be some pres- who has amassed an impressive 400 Gophers come in with a 7-17 record, sure put on by the Bobcats. There are kills already. The Blue Jays do not seem and only 2-4 in the Landmark Confercurrently four players on the stat sheet intimidated though, as they prepare ence. Although they do not have quite

F

men’s cross-country

Team gears up for MACs

They said it ...

Christian V. Sammartino Staff Writer

A

fter a victory in the Battle for the Buggy last Saturday, the men’s crosscountry team enters the Middle Atlantic Championship in the driver’s seat.

The score differential earned in the race will give the team a chance to make a decisive statement during regionals. The Jays will take their championship campaign to regionals on Saturday. The meet, which will be held at Delaware Valley College in Doylestown Pa., will be pivotal for the squad.

While the runners are confident that they will win their conference, senior captain Adam Derkacz said, “We still have to show up and do a good job at regionals. If we get seventh at regionals, then it’s no cigar.”

The runners familiarized themselves with the course at Delaware Valley College earlier this year on Sept. 4. Many of the runners ran the course that day and experienced its diverse terrain. Temperature and precipitation have been known to change track conditions, so the runners must carefully gauge the track during warm-ups. “Delaware Valley is an agricultural school, so the course is all through cornfields,” Derkacz said. “You’re running up tractor paths that are beaten down.”

The approach of the squad and the return of senior captain Chris Heisey will help elevate the team on Saturday. The runners will be conservative while running hard, deciding how to position themselves as the competition develops. Heisey, who returned to competition last Saturday, will help pace the Blue Jay attack.

“He is a linchpin that holds us all together with staying on course to achieve our goals,” Head Coach Christopher Straub said of Heisey.

With their conservative group approach and their linchpin in place, the Jays have been working hard. “We haven’t been backing off at all. We are stepping on the gas,” Straub said. “Our intention is to train through this time of the year, so we peak when it counts.”

Due to their hard work, the team has identified its strengths and solidified its mentality. “We know we are very strong in our conference. We are expecting to do well in the MAC and take another championship,” senior captain Rich Greco said.

Of his experiences in championship competitions, Greco added, “I feel like I perform better. You really step up, and everyone is in a whole new gear to get ready to roll. After that we know what is coming up, and we know that we have to keep the millstone rolling down the hill,” he said. “You have a duty to do the best that you possibly can. You owe it to [your teammates] and to yourself.”

If the Jays can combine their team approach and hard work with their togetherness, they will make a decisive statement at regionals. It is now a matter of running their race in rhythm with the lessons they have learned.

Straub already has an idea of what he will say to his team before they race on Saturday.

“One of our key phrases is trust your training,” Straub said. “I think that concept of trust is important: they trust me and I trust them. At the end of the day when we are all in that final huddle together, and we gather together as a team and a family, I will look them in the eye and tell them to trust their training.”

as much firepower as Frostburg State, the Blue Jays cannot take this team lightly, as they will need to build up their playoff stamina.

“Playing multiple matches in one day builds us up for longer competition. Post-season play is notorious for good and hard matches from our competitors,” Ritchey said.

The team will enter post-season play Nov. 3. Seeding for the conference playoffs has not been determined yet, so the opponent and venue have not yet been decided. One thing is for sure: the Blue Jays will be looking for some big wins to bring home a Conference title.

“We’re one of the best teams in the conference, and we need to go out and prove that we are the best,” Kreider said. “Our serve and serve-receive game will be important for us. If we can win that, nine times out of ten we will win the match.”

If the Blue Jays can win the battle of the service game, look forward to them making a playoff push this year.

“The more trash talk I hear, the more determined and focused I become. And I know my teammates are the same way.”

Senior Elyse Carabello, on the prospect of hearing rowdy fans at the women’s soccer game at Messiah on Saturday.

Photo: EtownBlueJays.com

Sports by the Numbers

4 The number of home runs hit by Texas Rangers outfielder Josh Hamilton in the 2010 American League Championship Series. The Rangers are currently playing for the first World Series championship in franchise history.

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October 28, 2010

field hockey

sports

the Etownian

15

DeMatteis looks to finish senior season on high note Michelle L. Hare Staff Writer

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ecently-named Commonwealth Conference Player of the Week, field hockey senior captain Liz DeMatteis continues her success at the close of the season while reflecting on her field hockey career and preparing for a busy spring semester of student teaching.

As of late, DeMatteis has made a habit of finding the back of the net by scoring at least one goal in each of the team’s last seven games. She has a total of 20 goals scored this season, and is just the seventh player in school history to reach the 20-goal mark in one season.

DeMatteis reached the milestone in an Oct. 25 matchup with No. 2 Lebanon Valley. DeMatteis said she knew she was close to the mark but was trying not to think about it.

“I just want to continue to play my game and let the rest take care of itself,” DeMatteis said.

While modestly appreciating this ongoing athletic recognition, DeMatteis is also eagerly preparing for her busy spring semester of student teaching. After graduation, she plans to teach elementary school as well as become a middle school field hockey coach. Her interest in teaching and coaching can be seen as almost second nature to DeMatteis from her parents’ similar involvements with her high school.

A native to Newark, Del., DeMatteis grew up around St. Mark’s High School where her dad, Tom, is a teacher as well as the boys’ and girls’ soccer coach and her mom, Theresa, works in the counseling department. Because DeMatteis chose to major in elementary education

with a special education concentration, many assumed her parents influenced her teaching interest. DeMatteis denies this, but admits that she knew her calling was to be a teacher ever since she was young.

“I have known since I was really little that I wanted to be a teacher. There was never a time when I wanted to be anything else,” DeMatteis said. “People joke that teaching runs in the family, but it is different because my dad teaches high school English, and my mom is a guidance counselor. My interest is with elementary students.”

With her dad as the high school’s Photo: EtownBlueJays.com soccer coach, DeMatteis had constant exposure to high school sports Senior Liz DeMatteis has registered a team-high 20 goals this year for Etown. throughout her younger years and displayed her interest in the athletic hockey.” However, she said she is happy offer her advice on how to improve and department, especially field hockey. with her choice to play field hockey be- has gone out of her way, particularly Her career began in seventh grade, but cause “it has helped me grow so much as with me as a freshman, to stay after DeMatteis was also involved in high a player and person, and I’ve created so practice with me when I asked for help improving my tipping.” school soccer, swimming and track. Her many memories.”

Reflecting on the special memories she In addition to the passion and mohighly-involved athletic role is a passion passed on to her younger brother, has made with the Blue Jays, DeMatteis tiviation DeMatteis has exhibited for T.J., a senior in high school, who also is expressed how she will miss bonding on helping her teammates, Head Coach kept busy with several sports, including and off the field with the team and specifi- Brandy Michael described her physical cally the unique on-field connection she and athletic contribution to the team. soccer and football.

“On the field she is very quick and DeMatteis said that she chose to shares with junior forward Caitlin Grimes.

“We have a special connection on the hard to stop,” Michael said. “She is a continue field hockey at the collegiate level because there was much more field. It is weird to say, but we are in a way great asset to us and is the spark that starts she wanted to learn about the game. telepathic when we play. I’m going to miss our offense. I can always rely on her.”

As DeMatteis tries to prepare for the Although DeMatteis has thoroughly that,” DeMatteis explained.

DeMatteis has proven to be a hard- end of the season, she hopes that the enjoyed playing field hockey with the working player and just as strong of a team she has helped lead this season Blue Jays, she admits one regret. will always remain united.

“I loved swimming, and I honestly leader on and off the field.

“Liz not only plays for herself, but for “The most important thing is to regret not swimming here at Etown,” she her whole team and is always striving to stay together,” DeMatteis said. “One said. “I just thought that it would really be too much doing both field hockey and make every single girl a little bit better person’s success is everyone’s success, swimming since the seasons are back by the end of the day,” first-year forward and you have to remember that as being to back, so I decided to stick with field Lauren Peck said. “Liz is always quick to part of the team.”

women’s cross-country

Blue Jays hoping for their fourth MAC Championship Amy L. Baugher Staff Writer

have done well so far. However, there is one opposing runner who he is watching out for and believes will oming up on Saturday, finish at the top. Straub said O c t . 3 0 , t h e wom e n’s that senior Katelyn Dorgin cross-countr y team will be from Delaware Valley Colparticipating in the Middle lege is probably the biggest Atlantic Conference. This is threat in the race and the a meet that the team has won girl to watch out for. Etown’s for the past three years and is junior captain, Kathr yn expecting to do the same again Howser, believes that Lebathis year, keeping up their curnon Valley College will be rent streak. the biggest competition for Women’s cross-country has the team overall. a young team this year: out of Photo: Tom “Drac” Williams As for preparation, the 25, 15 are first-years, and five Members of the men and women’s cross-country teams as well as Alumni pose for a family team is treating it like any are sophomores. The team has photo after their home meet this past weekend. other meet. They expect to been doing well this season though, with a solid win against Delaware Valley College, and a victory in the move on and will try their hardest, but they are focusing on the bigger picture.

After MACs come regionals, in which they compete against 60 other schools Battle for the Buggy.

Assistant Coach Christopher Straub is very enthusiastic about how he thinks and 420 runners, and after regionals is nationals, which is really what they are the team will do this year. He said that he fully expects both the men’s and striving for. They want to raise the bar and go as far as possible.

Howser agreed that the team is working hard and is ready for the meet. “We women’s teams to do well. On the women’s team, he expects his top five women to place. To date the top five runners for Elizabethtown College are: sophomore ran our first meet of the season at Delaware Valley, which is where MACs will Taryn Shank, first-years Traci Tempone and Eileen Cody, senior Kristen O’Brien be, so we all know the course,” she said. “We are getting to that part of the seaand sophomore Megan Patton. He believes that all of these athletes will finish son where we have put in all the workouts, and now it’s time to show everyone in the top twenty of the race, but the top three will probably finish within the what we have been training so hard for. This is the time in the season where we always step it up.” The women will train up through the meet, running 40 to 60 top seven of the race.

There are 16 schools in the MAC conference and about 130 runners in the miles a week. After this conference meet, they will still have three more weeks meet. Straub is not worried about how the team will do this time, because they to get focused and ready for regionals.

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16

sports

the Etownian

October 28, 2010

etown athletics • pro sports • ncaa coverage

high school football • olympics • analysis

women’s soccer

Blue Jays set to battle No. 1 Messiah Falcons Ashley N. Kufera Staff Writer

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very season, Elizabethtown College athletes anticipate the day that they will again face off against Messiah College. On Saturday, Oct. 30, the wait will be over for the women’s soccer team. The Blue Jays (8-6-3) will be up against the number one ranked Division III team in the country, with a perfect record of 15-0 and only two goals given up all season.

Etown is putting in a lot of hard work to prepare for this game; however, they are remaining focused on winning their few upcoming matches before taking on Messiah.

According to senior forward Photo: EtownBlueJays.com Elyse Carabello, over the Sophomore Rebekah Richards scored two goals against the Lycoming Warriors on Oct. 23. past few practices the team has been working on spewe have nothing to lose, and I know that every lieves that positive thinking can go a long way. cific aspects of the game, including little girl on this team is going to play her heart out The team is sticking to their normal posithings that they need to hone in order to against the Falcons,” Carabello said. tioning and formation set-up. The Blue Jays improve their playing style.

Messiah, scoring 81 goals this season, is going also have a few clever set corner and free kick Carabello said that the team is prepar- to come out strong with determination to keep plays that they have implemented over the ing for the Messiah match by analyzing the their perfect record. There are multiple strengths past few games and will use to their advantage Falcons’ top players this year. They have that the Blue Jays are going to have to consider against the Falcons. The team is also using the been paying close attention to what their in order to shut down the team. According to fact that this is an away match to their benefit. skills and weaknesses are so they can enter Carabello, the Falcons do not really have any Carabello said that the Messiah fans are probthe game better equipped to walk away with weak areas that can be taken advantage of. The ably going to pump them up even more. “The a win. “As a team, we honestly have been team as a whole is very solid and they play well more trash talk I hear, the more determined preparing for this game all year,” Carabello together; however, the Blue Jays are prepared to and focused I become, and I know my teamsaid. “It’s the game that is always in the back do everything they can to stop them. mates are the same way.” of our minds, and, hopefully, our hearts can This could be the last game of the season, Carabello remembers the year before she lead us to a remarkable victory.” and for Carabello and the rest of the seniors, came to Etown; the women’s soccer team The Blue Jays’ mentality is in the right their last game period. The Blue Jays are will- beat Messiah. “I watched the celebration place as well. The team is excited to square ing to do everything they possibly can to hand on YouTube and heard the endless stories,” off against the top team in the nation and it to the Falcons. Carabello knows that her team Carabello said. “I just wish that we can see it as a great experience. “At this point, has a lot of heart and determination and be- finally make that story our own.”

the etownian’s

Athlete of the Week

Crystal Agnew T. Gavin Nevill Sports Editor

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rystal Agnew knows a thing or two about assists.

The Etown volleyball team’s starting setter racked up 104 of them during the Blue Jays’ wins over Albright, Susquehanna and Carnegie Mellon last week.

Over that stretch, the senior from Queensbur y, N.Y. also contributed on defense, amassing 28 digs.

Ag n e w e ar n e d C om m on wealth Conference Player of the Week for her efforts.

So far this season, she has accounted for 967 of the team’s 1110 assists. Agnew is also first on the team with 25 aces.

Photo: EtownBlueJays.com

Q&A

Major: Mathematics Education Favorite Jay’s Nest item: Turkey Pretzel Melt Favorite sports team: New England Patriots Favorite musician: Michael Jackson Favorite TV show: “Grey’s Anatomy” Favorite movie: “The Banger Sisters” Song currently playing on my iPod: “Shawty It’s Your Booty” Biggest Fear: Darkness Favorite Athlete: Misty May

In 10 years, I want to be ... around the world and back.

Hardly anyone knows that ...

I did gymnastics for 10 years.

I’m a sucker for: s’mores day at the caf.

I started playing my sport... in 7th grade.

Greatest athletic achievement: being the starting setter for the Blue Jays Childhood hero: My Papa

InsideSports Volleyball

Page 14 Men’s Cross-Country Page 14 Field Hockey Page 15 Women’s Cross-Country Page 15

Sports Recap Men’s Cross-Countr y Battle for the Buggy 1st of 11 Women’s Cross-Country Battle for the Buggy 2nd of 10 Field Hockey (12-4) Albright 5, Etown 1 Etown 2, Lebanon Valley 4 Women’s Soccer (8-6-3) Etown 5, Lycoming 1 Etown 1, Susquehanna 0 Men’s Soccer (12-1-2) Etown 3, Lycoming 0 Susquehanna 0, Etown 1 Volleyball (21-8) Etown 3, Susquehanna 0 Etown 3, Carnegie Mellon 2 Etown 3, Lebanon Valley 1

Schedule

of Sports

Men’s Cross-Countr y October 23: Battle for the Buggy October 30: Middle Atlantic Conference Championships Women’s Cross-Country October 23: Battle for the Buggy October 30: Middle Atlantic Conference Championships Field Hockey October 28: @ Rosemont October 30: Wilkes November 3: Commonwealth Confernce Semifinals Women’s Soccer October 30: @ Messiah November 3 Commonwealth Conference Semifinals Men’s Soccer October 30: @ Messiah November 2: Commonwealth Conference Semifinals Volleyball October 30: Goucher Frostburg State November 3: Commonwealth Conference Semifinals EtownBlueJays .com