the
Herald By and for the students of Hobart and William Smith Colleges
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2010
VOLUME CXXXI ISSUE 19
GENEVA, NY
Bed Bugs Still Biting By Tim Hollinger ’11 Opinions Editor Two beds were carried out of Medbury Hall into the midmorning snow on Tuesday, as a room was treated for bed bugs. The case was reported on Feb. 10 after an article about the blood sucking bugs appeared in the Herald. An old chair bought at a second-hand store over fall recess is the suspected point of origin. The threat of a campus wide outbreak is still extremely low, but more cases may appear, as the bugs continue to enjoy a global resurgence. There have been six dorm rooms infested this academic year, costing the school several thousand dollars. This is the first school year in decades that the bugs have been found on campus, “Honestly, I’d never heard of them before this September,” said Kate McCaffrey, Director of Residential Education. Bed bugs have caught many by surprise recently as an increase in international travel and trade, as well as decrease in insecticides, such as DDT, has led to an explosion in bed bug populations. “I’ve talked to a lot of colleagues about the bugs, and we are by no means the only ones with them; they’re all over the place,” says McCaffrey, who added that
other area colleges have worse infestations than HWS. When asked if she was concerned about the bed bugs, which are scientifically known as Cimex Lectularius, senior Anessa Amer, who majors in English, said she was not afraid of them, but asked, “Should I be?!” David Iannicello, the Grounds Manager, who has led the successful effort to treat infested rooms, says people should be aware of the bugs and education is very important. In an interview conducted over the phone with the Herald, Photo courtesy of: www.mcgyverpestcontrol.com he added that he would not be surprised to see at After several infestations of bed bugs during the fall semester, there least one more case before have been at least two new infestations found so far this semester. graduation. Bedbugs are small, pregnant bed bug to be introduced of action for dealing with the bugs. just under of ¼ inch long, and can to a room, to lead to an infestation. Area Coordinators from Residential be picked-up almost anywhere. “There might be a case after Education act as ambassadors to Recently, they have been found spring break,” says Iannicello, who students with infestations; there in high end hotels, apartment added, “It takes about 6-8 weeks are several empty rooms where complexes, offices, and hospitals. for the population to build up, so students can be moved, and they There is no correlation between sometimes there is a delay after the are given quarters to put all of how clean an environment is and an bugs are introduced.” BITING continued on Page 2 infestation. It only takes a few, or a HWS has an effective plan
Greeks Help Haiti By Nicholas Batson ‘11 Herald Contributor
HWS Greek life supports Haiti relief through a compeition organized by Laura Martin ‘10. Yang Hu/Photographer
French Chef Patrick Mason serves chocolate cupcakes to students at the Intercultural Affairs House on Feb. 19.
HWS Welcomes French Chef Patrick Mason By Yang Hu ‘12 Herald Contributor Chef Patrick Masson, the first French chef to visit HWS, brought a French taste to HWS last week. On Thursday, Feb. 18 he worked with Showtime Joe to
cook French crepes for students. On Friday, Feb. 19, he made a French lunch at the faculty dining FRENCH continued on Page 2
Campus Happenings
A&E
G et to K no w the Ar ea
Review: S h ut t e r Isla n d
H oba r t In ter ns in Geneva
Book of t h e We e k
We a ring M a s k s for Purim
ASU Hosts Lunar New Year
William Smith Congress Update
CSA Masquerade Ball
As the world works to help Haiti to recover from its disastrous earthquake a month ago, members of the Hobart and William Smith community continue to do their part in aid efforts. These efforts have been ongoing since the beginning of the semester. Upon return to campus, the Barn played host to a Hope for Haiti dance. Students have been donating their time, money, and various other supplies to efforts of various clubs and organizations. The past weekend saw a masquerade dance at Belhurst Castle sponsored by the Caribbean Student Association
Opinions Memory Can Be A Bad Thing A n I ns uf f i c i e nt A na l y s i s A Major Technicality: martini Fails to do Homework
This past month, the Greek community has become involved, as well. Fraternities have been committing their time and energy to raising money, clothes, and supplies for Haiti. A competition began at the beginning of February among all the houses to see who could collect the most for the humanitarian efforts, primarily started by senior Laura Martin. The friendly competition will last until the end of the month and will then give the fraternities’ contributions to Medical Missionaries, based in GREEKS continued on Page 2
Sports Olympic Opening Ceremony U p co m i n g G am e s B o w l Fo r K i d s S ak e
2
FRIDAY, FEbruary 26, 2010
The Herald
Established 1879 By and for the Students of Hobart and William Smith Colleges Belinda Littlefield, Editor-in-Chief Rebecca Dennee, Campus Happenings Editor Tim Hollinger, Opinions Editor Liz Witbeck, A&E Editor Carrie Stevens, Sports Editor Amy Nimon, Photography Editor Erin Houck, Advertising Director Contributors Jennifer Hollander Melissa Warner Cory Andrews Hannah Semaya Carrie Stevens Caitlin Lugar Kelsey Lee
Ben Shabot Tim Hollinger Emily Hamburger Carly Cummings Nicholas Batson Morgan Williamson Rebecca Dennee
Copy Editing Belinda Littlefield Shelby Pierce Rebecca Dennee
Layout Belinda Littlefield Rebecca Dennee Caitlin Lugar
Distribution Belinda Littlefield Jennifer Hollander Annica Crouse
Submission Guidelines The Herald is currently accepting submissions for our upcoming issue. The deadline for this issue is Monday at 5 pm. Must include the: 1. Name and Class Year 2. Individual phone number or e-mail 3. Articles must be between 250-700 words 4. Articles must pertain to recent events E-mail submissions must be made via file attachment. Please send it as a .doc file. Please send pictures as separate attachments. If criteria are not met, the Herald may be unable to print submission.
HWS is Goin’ to the Dogs By Jennifer Hollander ’10 Herald Contributor
Callie Callie, how old are you and what breed? I’m 14 and a minature poodle Do you have any favorite toys? Ones that belong to anyone but me Do you have a favorite treat? Food that you humans eat What does you current caretaker do for the Colleges? Abandons me in her office while she teaches economics What do you know about that topic? What is economics to a blind dog? Nothing, my friend
Do you have questions that you want to ask upcoming
President’s Forum Speakers? If so, email them to herald@hws.edu, and maybe your question will be asked during the Herald’s next interview.* *All questions should be submitted one week before the relevant President’s Forum
FRENCH continued from Page 1 hall. He also shared his delicious chocolate cupcakes with students at the IC on Friday afternoon, where the Herald interviewed both him and the General Manager of Dining Services, Lynn Pelkey. This is the second time Chef Patrick Masson has been in the United States. He is not very fluent in English, but he undoubtedly enjoyed talking to International students about cultural differences and food while enjoying the cupcakes at the IC. “This is so good!!!” many students commented, most of who could not help taking more after finishing their first one. The General Manager of Dining Services Lynn Pelkey, who also works for Sodexo, just like Mr. Masson, told us he used to work in Colorado. “He signed up for Sodexo’s ‘Global Chef Program’, and that’s how he comes to HWS”, she said, “On the coming weekend he will continue his journey and cook food for other universities in New York State.” He told the the Herald that he started his career as a Chef at the age of 18 and has been doing it for 20 years. He likes the “landscaping of HWS”, as well as the special sauce here. When asked what is his favorite food, he answered with a big smile, “Fish and vegetables.” Then he asked, “what about you?” I told him it is dumplings; alhough he had no idea what dumplings were, he showed great interest in Chinese food. So what do HWS students think
of the Thursday French food? “I’m not a big fan of French food, but I do love the crepes!” said Krissy Stoner, ‘13. Her friend Sarah agreed that the crepe was good, “but not much special about the Thursday dinner, cuz everybody can make a crepe!” Zhiyou “Yoyo” Cao, the president of the newly-founded Chinese Culture Club, says, “The French food is just so-so. We hope that someday our club can collaborate with Saga and bring real Chinese food here, not like the so-called Chinese food we are having in Saga everyday.” Though the feedback is not all positive, the French food night successfully pulled most partialmeal-plan students into Saga, not to mention a big number of nomeal-plan students who were guestpassed into Saga by their friends. Saga is one of the most important places for students to socialize on campus, but most students are so stuck to their dining group that they even go to specific tables as if it is designated. Besides, firstyear students are usually separated from other students because of the meal plan difference. However, with French music playing, students saw a very different Saga last Thursday night: people from different groups sitting together; those who did not know each other were talking about food while waiting in line. Therefore, we definitely welcome diverse tastes to break the monotonous menus at Saga.
GREEKS continued from Page 1 Manassas, Virginia. The various fraternities’ efforts have included a variety of activities. The Greek houses have tabled at Scandling Center. Delta Chi brothers and even a few alumni have contributed money on their own behalves. This past Friday, Phi Sigma Kappa, working with the Community Service and Current Events Houses, hosted a benefit concert at their own house. Paying with $2, an article of clothing, or various medical supplies, students
were admitted to the house and listened to performers ranging from Merrill Amos and Molly Krifka to Run Alex Run and El Ka Bong. The event lasted through the night, helping to collect money and supplies as well as clothing, which went to Community Service and Current Events as part the clothing drive they are heading. As the month wraps up, the Greek men of campus will continue to contribute their last bits of effort for their competition for Haiti.
BITING continued from Page 1 their clothing and linens through the wash. Heating bed bugs to 114 degrees Fahrenheit for fourteen minutes will kill them. It is often difficult to get the bugs out of a room as they will nestle in tiny places like the head of a screw or under baseboards. Infested rooms almost always have to be treated by a professional exterminator. HWS has successfully treated every case of bedbugs when a student suspects they have an infestation; often after a rash of bites has appeared Buildings and Grounds inspects the room in question. If an infestation is confirmed Residential Education quickly finds another room for the student or students. All of the student’s clothing is heat treated in dryers. The beds are
wrapped and removed, even though the colleges have invested in a special type of mattress that bedbugs cannot get inside. Infected dorm rooms are treated by an exterminator, and then deep cleaned twice. The base boards are removed, and every gap or hole is sealed. Then the room is put back together and the student is allowed to move back in. The entire process can take 3-4 weeks. “We’ve actually be able to speed up treatment time,” says Iannicello. Residential Education has spent $50- $100 dollars on quarters and more on new furniture. Buildings and grounds has spent about $4000 on inspection and treatment, not including labor.
3
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2010
Campus Happenings Get to Know the Area By Rebecca Dennee ’10 and Carly Cummings ’10 Herald Contributors This section of the Herald is meant to give the students of the Colleges a taste of what Geneva and the surround area has to offer, by reviewing a local business so that you can get to know more about our community.
El Morro
El Morro, meaning “the bluff,” was recommended to me by locals and is a hidden gem in the center of Geneva. Serving Puerto Rican cuisine, the environment reflects that of Garcia’s: heavily decorated walls and a corner designated for the Virgin Mary that gives the restaurant its unique charm. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and offers plenty of variety for all tastes. At a late Friday lunch we were one of only two tables out of many in the large restaurant. The service was very good; they cook to order so it took a bit longer than the typical Garcia’s or pizza place meal, but the staff was friendly and attentive. Lunch, though slightly different from the advertised menu online, is a choice between a la carte and buffet, and we went for the a la carte menu to get the most variety of choices. Prices for appetizers range from $1.50 to $5. The appetizers range from being able to feed 1 to 5 people and are all very filling. Our sampling of appetizers included tostones; fried plantains with a bit of salt to season them. If you have never tried Puerto Rican or Caribbean cuisine, plantains are very similar to bananas with a root-like taste. The tostones were delicious fried-up and steaming-hot when they arrived on the table. We also ordered the potato balls which were just fried mashed potatoes with beef in the middle, and sorullitos de maiz, deep fried corn meal with cheese in the center. They were sweet with a hint of salty and very appetizing,
Women’s eting Collective Me
9:00 p.m. rce Center Women’s Resou iller) (Basement of M Want to Write For
The Herald? We Look Forward To Hearing From You! herald@hws.edu!
aking
Printm
xhibit
E
6 arch 2 M 6 Feb. 2 y Galler e Davis Hous n o t h Houg
I would strongly recommend ordering a side or two of these. Lastly, though not authentic, we ordered pan con ajo, which was your typical garlic bread. Most lunch special options are on a daily basis ranging from chicken to pork to fish on Fridays, but the smaller plate meals that range from $5 to $10 are offered every day and include your choice of white or yellow rice and beans. For our main meals, I ordered the chicken taquitos with yellow rice and beans and Carly ordered the pastelillos—beef turnovers with yellow rice and black beans. Everything was hot when it was served and came out promptly. Overall, we enjoyed our meal and felt extremely full after sampling the menu. And though the food was a bit plain and expected, for around $22 we had a filling meal that could well have served three or four people. I strongly recommend checking out El Morro’s. The prices are right, and students receive a 10% discount with their student IDs. This hidden gem satisfies any student budget and is sure to please. El Morro’s is located in the basement of One Franklin Square; you can enter on the street level off of Exchange a short ways down from the old Holiday bar. It is within easy walking distance of school so no need to go far to find a good and inexpensive place to eat. Also, check out their website (elmorrorestaurant.com); the menu has been changed slightly from the one posted online, but it will give you a good sense of the options of food they have.
William Smith Congress Update By Jennifer Hollander ’10 Herald Contributor This week’s Congress meeting began with a statement from Stephanie Wells from Big Brothers Big Sisters. They have been advertising for their annual Bowl For Kids Sake Event and wanted to gather the interest of the quorum. The national organization of Big Brothers Big Sisters holds an annual bowling event and this is the fourth year that the campus branch has participated. Sunset Bowling is generously offering its lanes for the cause. Miss Wells also explained to the quorum how to become a Big; a student must be at least eighteen years of age, have an insured car, and be on campus for two consecutive semesters. BBBS is a yearlong commitment that forms life long bonds between young children in need and older mentors. Last spring a survey was sent out asking students if they wanted to change the exam times for the spring semester. The exams in the Spring are held Saturday-Tuesday. On Sundays the exams were normally held at different
times to accommodate students’ religious preference. One problem with the alternate times was that there was a very small break between exams two and three. Another expressed problem was that students felt if one had a religious obligation, that person should be given an exception instead of the entire class. The exam times were changed so that all exams are at the same time. Campus Services Committee also gave an update. The Colleges have been receiving complaints about the man known as “Socrates”- an older man who has been around on campus and talking with students. The man is not a professor or member on the HWS staff. He is eccentric and some students are intimidated or uncomfortable around him. Some time ago a dorm within JPR was broken into. One of the quorum members expressed her concern- one that many William Smith students in JPR had- that there was a bra thief on campus. The bra thief is not a student.
The Class of 2010 has
79 Days Until Graduation
Sunday, Feb. 23 S.O.S. Presents: “Autumn’s Concerto” 1:30 p.m. @ Stern 101
Upcoming Events
Join the
HERALD Review a Concert
Friday, Feb. 26th- HWS Day & Environment • 1:30pm- Half the World 1010: Energy Rooms in East Asia @ Geneva and Sanford Hall ing Din k stoc • 6:00pm- Sankofa Harlem Nights: Com “Uncover/Reveal”: • 7:00pm- “Nice Place to Visit” and Houghton Opening Reception @ Davis Gallery, Blue Jupiter • 8:00pm- CAB Acapella Fest feat. m @ Vandervort Roo Saturday, Feb. 27th rgy & Environment • 9:00pm- Half the World 1010: Ene Rooms in East Asia @ Geneva and Sanford Festival of Nations • 3:00pm- Geneva City’s 3rd Annual @ Geneva High School Sunday, Feb. 28th sents: • 1:30pm- Anime Central’s S.O.S. Pre “Autumn’s Concerto” @ Stern 101 Tuesday, March 2nd ng 2010 Film Series: • 8:00pm- French & Francophone Spri “Indochine” @ Gulick 206A cert @ Geneva Room • 8:00pm- Vinca String Quartet Con Wednesday, March 3rd @ Cellar Pub • 8:00pm- Student Trustee Debate
Interview Big Names Learn New Things About Campus Get To Know Your Classmates Learn InDesign Take A Position of Leadership Bring Issues on Campus to Light Make the Paper Your Own
Meetings: Tuesdays 7pm @ Creedon Room
4
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2010
Campus Happenings Hobart Interns in Geneva Communications Department
“Howard Roark Laughed”
By Cory Andrews ’12 Herald Contributor
By Benjamin Shabot ’10 Herald Contributor
After a recent Finger Lake Times article featuring the intern work of Hobart students Luke Esselen ‘11, Grant Palmero ‘11, Chris Legaspi ‘12, and Willis Stephens ‘12, much attention has been focused on the unique partnership between these students and the city of Geneva. So what exactly are these four doing in the mayor’s office? Basically, the students are aiming to improve and update communications within City Hall and its offices, and between City Hall and the public. Esselen, who designed the program, told the Finger Lake Times that the first step is creating secure Facebook pages as a means of communication within and between offices. Other steps include mass emails and creating a Twitter page for the city of Geneva to get important information out to a wide range of people. Eventually, changes will be made to the city website as well, including easily accessible links to pertinent information. Updates will also be made to the signs and building directory of City Hall to become more viewer and user friendly. HWS art students have also been approached with regard to creating a new logo to go on printed material.
Kevin Colton/Photographer
Luke Esselen ’11 is one of four Hobart students that are currentl y serving on the Communications Department for the Town of Geneva. Surprisingly, such a benefit is coming to the city free of charge. The students spend anywhere from 5 to 13 hours a week in the offices, and receive course credit at HWS for their work.
There are those who live for themselves. And there are many others who live through people. They are secondhanders. A secondhander is one who lives through the perception of others. They do not value who they are, but how others view them as they are. The Howard Roark Society for Individual Growth and Definition (HRSID) would like to publically endorse this concept as made famous in Ayn Rand’s the Fountainhead. HRSID would also like to warn the student body of the many second-handers that infest Hobart and William Smith Colleges. Have you ever seen the kid in class who raises their hand not for the pursuit of knowledge, but for recognition? He or she is a second-hander.
Second-handers care so deeply about how they are perceived that they are willing to compromise their integrity. This is a serious problem that affects us all, as men and women cannot accomplish their best when they are slaves to public perception. When someone cares too deeply about his or her perception they fail to create anything worth of value. Instead of drawing from truth they create only what they want other people to hear. But in doing this they create drek, because beauty comes from truth. HWS students should strive not to exist by any others. This is the second installment by the Howard Roark Society for Individual Growth and Definition.
Wearing Masks in Honor of Purim By Jennifer Hollander ’10 Herald Contributor This Sunday the holiday Purim will be taking place. Purim is a joyous holiday in the Jewish tradition that celebrates being saved from massacre by the woman Esther. It is said in the Torah that Esther was a lover of the king of Persia. He was deeply enamored by her but did not know that she was Jewish as she had been told to conceal this part of her identity. One of the king’s advisor’s, a man named Haman, had dispute with Esther’s cousin and father figure, Mordecai. Mordecai was well liked by the king because he had revealed an assassination attempt by others against him; his Jewish heritage was also not known. Haman was a vain and egotistical man who wanted people to worship him. Mordecai refused to do so. Haman did some research and learned
that Mordecai was Jewish. He decided to have all of the Jewish people within Persia exterminated as revenge. The king granted permission, not knowing his own queen, Esther was Jewish. The message eventually came to her and she pleaded for her people’s freedom, revealing to him her Jewish heritage. The Jewish people were saved, Haman was executed, and Mordecai was able to take his place. The holiday is celebrated with much merriment and some pranks against a mock figure of Haman.
to those who cannot afford it. A popular food hamentaschen is baked and eaten in large quantities. Jews are encouraged to enjoy alcohol, but not in a harmful or debilitating way. Carnivals are held in Jewish communities along with plays. People dress up in costumes and reenact the story of Esther in costume. Wearing masks is also important as it hidden Photo courtesy of: www.vision.org represents personas. Both Esther and Mordecai Jokes are frequent; however, jokes that insult people are frowned upon. hid their Judaism; to commemorate It is customary for adult members of this, people wear masks. the Jewish community to give food
Opinions Memor y Can Be a Bad Thing By Benjamin Shabot ’10 Herald Contributor Last week Felix Spira wrote an article titled “A Failure of Analysis.” It was written in response to an article I had written several weeks ago that highlighted the success of the Separation Barrier in Israel. He explained that any analysis that ignores Palestinian oppression is in danger of hurting the peace process. I disagree with his analysis. Atrocities have been committed by both sides since the beginning of the conflict. This is not disputed. During the later part of the 1948 Independence War many Israelis violently chased Arabs out of their homes and forced them into exile. But, it was the Palestinians who declined two partition plans, and instead sided with a massive Arab alliance aimed at annihilating the newly formed Jewish state. The finger pointing continues throughout the conflict’s history. Spira complains of the illegal occupation of the West Bank and the Gaza Strip by Israelis following
the Six Day War, but he fails to I sought to explain the success bring up the constant fedayeen of the Separation Barrier and the attacks emitting from those same tough stance Israelis are now taking territories prior to 1967. towards negotiations.It was based Fast forward to today where on statistics, the elections, and the only a year has passed since Israelis actions of the Likud Party. Spira killed over a thousand Palestinians does not dispute this in his article. in Operation Cast Lead. But then it The problem of Spira’s was Hamas who analysis, and was launching almost If we are serious about he rockets and admits this finding a solution we mortars at civilian himself, is that need to stop finger targets in Israel he is caught from the Gaza pointing and get down to up in finger Strip. pointing. business. I am biased He focuses mainly because entirely on my last name is Shabot. Spira why the cycle of violence continues, is biased too for reasons I don’t but not on situation in its present. know. In his entire article he failed He concludes only by saying that to level any blame on the part of ignorance of such past atrocities Palestinians. In my article I failed endangers the peace process. to level any blame on Israelis. But why does ignoring But that’s because the goal of Palestinian oppression endanger my analysis was to paint an accurate the peace process? I think the picture of the reality on the ground opposite is true in that peace can without getting hung up on history. only be achieved when both sides
forget their emotional past. I could go on and on about Palestinian atrocities, and why Israeli violence and occupation is justified. But I don’t want to paint that picture, it would get us nowhere. I want to inform students what the situation on ground looks like now Feb. 26, 2010. I do this in order that we have a better realization of what is possible in our struggle for peace. The future leaders of the America need to find a way bring Israelis back to the negotiating table, and I tried in my last article explaining that Palestinian violence will only further convince Israelis that they need to stay behind their walls. We need to ensure security on both sides. Solving this is the million dollar question. I have some ideas, but I’m not sure Spira and others like him do. If we are serious about finding a solution we need to stop finger pointing and get down to business.
5
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2010
Opinions An Insufficient Analysis By Emily Hamburger ’13 Herald Contributor While reading a recent issue of The Herald, I was disappointed to see an article that served, in the author’s words, as a “selective analysis of only some features of the [Israeli-Palestinian] conflict.” Although Spira made some interesting points, the article was poorly researched and lacked a basic understanding of the Middle East conflict. Spira is quick to point out that Israel has been “occupying” Palestinian land since 1967. What he neglected to mention is that in 1947, 20 years before this “occupation” and before Israel was first established, the UN partitioned Palestine so that each nation could live in peace. The Palestinian Jews agreed to the partition. However, the Palestinian Arabs rejected a peaceful resolution and launched attacks on Israel. For nearly 20 years after Israel declared her independence, Jordan and Egypt had complete control over the West Bank and Gaza. Neither Jordan nor Egypt attempted to establish a Palestinian state in either area and there were no cries for the establishment of an Arab Palestinian state in those territories. If the Palestinians were determined to create a Palestinian state in the West Bank and Gaza, why did they not try to create a
state when they had the land and the control? The author also claims that the region’s major problems began 43 years ago during the 1967 Six Day War. Spira appears to argue that were it not for Israel’s control over the West Bank and Gaza, peace would be achievable. One key difficulty with this view is that the Palestinian attempts to defeat and destroy Israel clearly preceded the Six Day War. In fact, the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) was organized in 1964, three years before the Six Day War. Article nine of the PLO’s organizational charter states, “Armed struggle is the only way to liberate Palestine. This it is the overall strategy, not merely a tactical phase. The Palestinian Arab people assert their absolute determination and firm resolution to continue their armed struggle and to work for an armed popular revolution for the liberation of their country and their return to it.” Soon after its formation, the PLO was responsible for many attacks against the State of Israel, from bases in neighboring countries as well as the Gaza Strip
and the West Bank. Another overlooked fact about the Six Day War that disproves Spira’s point is that immediately after the war, Israel offered to return most of the captured land in exchange for peace and normal relations; but this offer (like that in 1947) was rejected. Spira’s article also implies that the existence of an Israeli presence in the disputed territories is the cause of the Arab Palestinian anguish. What the article does not mention is in 2005, Israel completely evacuated Gaza. Its complete unilateral withdrawal left Gaza free of any Israelis. Instead of building infrastructure and a peaceful society, though, the Palestinian leadership used the territory as a launching pad for nearly 1,000 Qassam rockets targeting innocent Israelis during the year following the disengagement. In subsequent years, there have been more than 3,000 rocket attacks directed toward innocent Israelis.
Due to the increased violence, Israel created checkpoints from Gaza and the West Bank into the rest of Israel. Israel has endured much criticism about the security measures. In principle, though, border crossing checkpoints are no different than the checkpoints between the United States and Mexico used to prevent illegal drug and weapon smuggling into the US. If US checkpoints are acceptable, why is Israel not allowed to have checkpoints that block people from trying to bring weapons and bombs into Israel? Perhaps the most obvious oversight in Spira’s “selective analysis” is this. When it comes to a willingness to compromise for peace, there can be no doubt about what Israel is prepared to do. In 1947, Israeli leaders accepted the partition plan. In 1979, they responded to Egyptian peace overtures by returning the entire Sinai Peninsula. During the 1990s, through various agreements, Israel offered to relinquish 95% of the West Bank and all of Gaza and then, in 2005, Israel completely vacated Gaza. All this and more was done by an Israeli government in search of a peace partner on the Palestinian side.
A Major Technicality: Martini Fails to Do Homework By Carrie Stevens ’12 Sports Editor On Jan. 27, 2010, the martini – Hobart and William Smith’s “alternative publication” – printed an article by Ashley Yang, condemning student-athletes for being “excused from class” because they have the “ability to kick a ball.” As both a student-athlete and a journalist, I feel a responsibility to set the record straight; Yang made a series of inaccurate, false and unsupported claims regarding the behavior of student-athletes at the Colleges. The piece stated that student-athletes receive a “signed note” from their coach, which allows us to be excused from class “without penalty.” However, further research would’ve yielded additional information—All HWS athletes, their coaches and their professors sign contracts, not notes. This document holds the student responsible for a three things: One, the student must let their professors know they will be missing class for an athletic competition; two, the student must take responsibility for what they missed, meaning they get the notes from a classmate, visit their professor during office hours, etc.; and three, the student will complete any missed assignments, before they are due. Not only is there is a big difference between an informal note and a signed agreement, but we must do the same amount or more work in a shorter amount of time. The article also claimed that DivisionIII athletes are “never going to go anywhere professionally because [they attend] a D-III school.” Once again, a sufficient amount of research would’ve led to different conclusions. Alex Bell signed with the NFL’s New York Giants on May 18, 2005, after graduating from Hobart during the same year. According to an article available online from the Times HeraldRecord, the offensive guard stated he chose the small liberal arts college because he “wanted to concentrate on academics.” A Statesman who didn’t want to miss class because he could throw a football—can you believe it? Pierre Garcon also attended a D-III institution. In fact, the Mount Union (Ohio) alum played in this year’s Super Bowl for the Indianapolis Colts. The wide receiver tailed five receptions for a total of 66 yards, in addition to one touchdown. (The Colts ended up losing to the New Orleans Saints, 31-17.) Yikes, another D-III graduate who played alongside Peyton Manning, a standout at the D-I level? A former Heron, Marisa Vespa suited up in the signature William Smith green and white before beginning her – get this, Yang –
professional basketball career. Prior to jetting across the pond to play for Denmark, Vespa surpassed the 500 assist and 1,000 points marks for her D-III program. Next, the author tried to advance her argument by suggesting that students who belong to campus-regulated organizations – like Koshare dancers and club leaders – should be excused from academic classes to attend to their extracurricular commitments. Yet again, she disregarded an important fact: The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), not the Colleges, governs the 21 varsity sports teams at HWS. Although Koshare and other clubs can plan their performances around their members’ schedules, this is simply not possible with NCAA athletics. Most sporting events take place on Fridays and Saturdays, which ensures student-athletes miss the least amount of classes. Unlike college extracurriculars, varsity sports follow a set schedule. For example, all basketball teams that are a part of the Liberty League conference play their regular season games on Friday nights and Saturday afternoons. (There is one crossover game, which takes place on Tuesday night.) In short, college athletes do not have the luxury of scheduling their own matches. Personally, I’d love to play games only on Saturdays and Sundays, but this not the way scheduling is done. Further into the article, the author presents the idea that non student-athletes are being “discriminated” against because they are given “special consideration” regarding attendance policies and class participation. I’ve had professors who do and do not distinguish excused and unexcused absences. This means student-athletes must be even more dedicated to academics. For example, I missed three classes this semester due to basketball games. Since my three allotted absences are exhausted, I must be in class, period. Regardless of sickness, sleepiness, laziness, or whatever the
Photo courtesy of: i.ehow.com
case may be, my commitment to my classes will be stronger. The argument in the closing paragraph is icing on the cake. The author states that Statesmen and Herons are given “preferential treatment” and that non-athletes are being “punished.” Believe it or not, not all athletes are treated like Michael Phelps. One friend of mine has never told her professor that she’s an athlete, simply because said professor is notorious for treating student-athletes unfairly. Luckily, she’s never had to miss a class for an athletic contest. So martini, the next time you plan to rant and rage about how you are unhappy with a specific issue, please do your research first. We can’t simply step on a playing field and succeed— we train, we practice, we study the craft. And although you may believe the “ability to kick a ball” doesn’t require any of the abovementioned qualities, being a good journalist does.
6
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2010
Arts and Entertainment Book of the Week: Change of Heart by Jodie Picoult By Melissa Warner ’12 Herald Contributor If you have read anything by Jodi Picoult before, then you will have some idea of the type of writer she is. Her stories are always emotional, complex, and full of unexpected twists. Although her body of work is extensive, she is most well known for her novel My Sister’s Keeper, published in 2004 and recently made into a movie. Change of Heart is one of her more recent works, published in 2008 and her second novel to debut at #1 on the New York Times Best Seller list. Change of Heart tells the heartbreaking story of June Nealon, a woman whose world was destroyed just when it seemed she had everything to look forward to. Her new husband, Kurt, is a kind, dedicated policeman and her daughter from her first marriage, Elizabeth, is a happy, beautiful child. She looks forward to living her life with the both of them but everything changes when the wandering drifter they had hired to help them with some carpentry murders both her husband and daughter while June is at a doctor’s appointment. June buries her husband and daughter while pregnant with a new child and Shay Bourne, the carpenter, is put on trial and is sentenced to death. The story jumps ahead eleven years with Shay Bourne in Concord State Prison, his last appeal falling through. June’s new daughter, Claire, has a serious heart condition and must have a transplant soon or she will most likely die. While in prison, Shay sees a news program about Claire and volunteers to donate his heart to her. However, lethal injection would make it impossible to donate his heart, should June even choose to
accept it. An ACLU lawyer, Maggie Bloom, takes on Shay’s case and attempts to make it possible for Shay to die by hanging so that he can give Claire his heart. For the varies cast of characters, from the prisoners on death row to the people fighting to give Shay a chance to donate his heart to June and her daughter, everyone’s understanding of the Photo courtesy of: karen826.vox.com murder and Shay changes. Change of Heart by Jodi Picoult is a complex book with many fascinating religious theme and ethical questions. This book faces the controversial issue of the death penalty face on and makes the reader seriously think about what it means. The plot is intricate, full of unexpected twists and the characters are well written. Change of Heart is a book that is enjoyable and poignant, definitely something to read if you want a story that will stay with you long after.
Caribbean Student Union Throws Annual Masquerade Ball By Kelsey Lee ’12 and Melissa Warner ’12 Herald Contributors
Photo courtesy of: Gabrielle Perez
The organizers of the event and members of the CSA pose with professors during their annual Ball to support Haiti Relief efforts. Against the opulent Belhurst Castle backdrop, Hobart and William Smith students looked elegant and well-groomed in glistening gowns adorned with silk and sparkle and striking jet-black tuxedos as they filed into the dining hall, picking up the free masks that called classic Venetian Carnival Masquerades to mind. However, the purpose of this lavish event did not parallel the elaborate allegorical pageants and triumphal processions of medieval court life. In fact, the whole intention of the evening was to bring focus, not on those who have so much, but on those who have so little. The night’s proceeds were donated to Haiti earthquake relief and as well as raising awareness Caribbean issues and culture. Also, since it was the anniversary of ten
The igloo...
years of CSA at HWS, there were both alumni and current members of the club coming together to celebrate their accomplishments. The faculty advisers of this club, both current and former, spoke about their pride in the club’s work promoting acceptance and understanding among students and faculty on campus. The current adviser, Professor Lauren Alleyne, read a lovely poem by one of her favorite authors which really fit well with the mood of the dinner. Former adviser Richard Salter and former program coordinator of the IC, Chevy Devaney, both reminisced on the founding and goals of the club, as well as its growth over the years. The series of performances for the night opened with “Turn Your Lights Down Low,” a song by Bob Marley and Lauren Hill, performed
by Jalisa Whitley and Tatianna Echevarria. The performance was incredibly professional and expressive, and it evoked the spirit and character of classic rhythm and blues. The romantic sincerity of the piece was a pleasant relief from the heavy, insistent beats that characterize contemporary urbane, rock-based music. Patrice Thomas presented an original poem that was meant to honor the nation of his inheritance. Every face in the room was somberly gazing upon the speaker as he paid homage to the long-suffering island of Haiti, a reaction that exemplified that we are truly one world, and that the distress of one nation is not far and separate from us, regardless of geographical remoteness. His poem was absent of excessively wordy libretto and artificial flourishes; it was raw, honest, and poignant. Hobart and William Smith’s tango club, Libertango, showcased a spirited and sultry routine performed by Kimberly Parkhurst and Rosie Cleland. With lively, staccato steps, swiveling gauchos, and nimble molinetas, the girls piloted a hypnotic and beautiful routine. As students were just being served their flavorsome soups, the CSA presented a brief student documentary, asking students of Caribbean heritage to discuss the emotional effects the Haitian earthquake yielded. Most students neglected their tasty appetizers until the termination of the film, and were listening, wide-eyed, to the statements of their fellow students. The earnest reverence and concern among the
BY CAITLIN LUGAR
students for the Haitian cause was palpable and quite heartrending. Youdlyn Moreau performed the second original song of the night, a soulful solo entitled “In This Life” that evoked tremendous passion for the Haitian cause. Her recital was comparable to the earlier performances of Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey, and her full, rich voice intensified the heart of the piece. The Hip~NotiQ’s gave the final performance, with an exciting, rollicking show that showcased the percussive rhythms and complex steps and claps that are characteristic of this dance organization’s spectacular performances. After a lively opening, the Hip~NotiQ’s dissolved into a graceful, gyrating mass, dancing loosely to some sunny, rhythmic music characterized by accents on the off-beat, which called to mind the soul of the Caribbean islands and the lighthearted beats of traditional reggae music. Skipping casually around the ballroom, the dancers clasped the hands of their fellow classmates, who were sitting quietly by their water glasses and soupspoons, and turned the elegant extravaganza into an energetic mass of joyful dancers. It was a touching way to end a night that was, above all, about bringing people together and encouraging everyone to care for each other. By unifying the dancers, the CSA demonstrated their desire to share their rich culture with everyone on campus.
7
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2010
Arts and Entertainment Shutter Island: Great Movie With a Disappointing Ending By Hannah Semaya ’13 Herald Contributor Shutter Island presents itself as a mystery thriller. Directed by Martin Scorsese of such classics as Goodfellas, Raging Bull, and Taxi Driver, it’s impossible to walk into the theater that he can find some answers on the island without expecting something fantastic. Scorsese beyond his assignment there. His new partner is sets the audience up for a whirlwind tour of Ruffalo as Chuck Aule, who seems very worried by the mystery surrounding the island. excitement and intrigue. The supremely creepy atmosphere on the Two US Marshals are sent on an investigation island is only intensified by to a small, dreary island. The It’s scar y enough those who inhabit it. Not only island is home to some of the are the prisoners disturbing, so that you’ll find most dangerous, and the most criminally insane prisoners yourself gripping the so are the people who care for them. Sir Ben Kingsley (Lucky one could ever encounter. The arms of your chair, Number Slevin, You Kill me) is two marshals finds themselves the inscrutable Doctor Cawley but not too scar y to investigating a lot more than their original case when a storm delays be called a horror of very questionable motives. The warden is played by Ted their departure. The suspense movie. Levine (“Monk”), who seems to builds up in the 2-hour plus film have gone back to his Silence of until the very end, when the final the Lambs level of psychosis for this role. Marshal secrets of Shutter Island are revealed. Daniels encounters these and more ghosts of his The two marshals are played by Leonardo past. DiCaprio (Blood Diamond, Titanic) and Mark Shutter Island is worth seeing. It’s scary Ruffalo (The Brothers Bloom, Reservation enough so that you’ll find yourself gripping Road). This proves to be the fourth successful the arms of your chair, but not too scary to be collaboration between Scorsese and DiCaprio, called a horror movie. It is a solid thriller, with following Gangs of New York (2002), The Aviator the suspense building up to a semi-disappointing (2004) and The Departed (2006). climax. Scorsese avoids using cliché until the Dicaprio is Marshal Teddy Daniels. Daniels very end, which is why it hurt so much to see has been through a lot in his life, and he’s hoping
Asian Student Union Hosts Successful Lunar New Year
Photo Courtesy: impawards.com
it. To have such an innovative, fresh movie lead to a disappointing twist is a real shame. It’s not enough to ruin the movie; just enough to make you wish you had not seen that exact ending coming.
New Artist Profile
By Morgan Williamson ’12 Herald Contributor
Ashley “Ashes” Coulter
Cornell Museum of Art working in collaboration with Anime Central, to their annual Bubble Tea night Former Canadian Idol contestant Ashes, and others. who made it to the sixth place is an artist After the introduction they to look out for. Having just been signed, started to line people up for the this techno punk singer is still working on buffet table where over half the her first album but plans to make singing food had been made by members her career. Her Myspace page (search of ASU and served by them as Ashesband) previews what’s to come. well. Other food was provided by a local Chinese restaurant. Sounds Like: Lady Gaga, Ke$ha Many people enjoyed the curry, which was made from Songs to Listen to: Though she only has scratch by one of the Board 3 songs online currently all are fun pump members of ASU. After every up party music. Next time you are online one was served food and sat down check out Ashes Myspace page for new to eat guest speaker, Professor music with a fun twist. McNally, began her speech. Photo courtesy of: Morgan Williamson She talked about Asian food Members of the ASU pose with Professor McNally guest and its sustainability is comparison speaker for the event who spoke about sustainable food to other cultural food. How Asia Last week on Friday the 20th, the Asian prepared food in the past and how Student Union or ASU hosted their annual Lunar they prepare it now is more sustainable then New Year Dinner and Celebration. While it did most other cultures. not land on the exact day of the Lunar year, it was They use the ash from their cooking and still giant success. return it to the ground as fertilizer, in a rice patty People began to flood the Comstock dining to help grow more food. The talk was informative room, and it was not just members of ASU or but not too long and when she stepped down Asian Studies Majors. There were faculty from to have her own food everyone tucked in and the Asian Studies Department as well as staff enjoyed the rest of the dinner. and some Geneva residents in attendance. A raffle was drawn and the prize, given to a Around hundred guests attended the event. Hobart Student at the event, was a collection of The dinner started around 6:45pm with ASU’s Asian cultural items. introduction and overview of their upcoming The entire event was a success and the year events for the semester. of the Tiger looks to be starting off without a There will be a wide array of events that hitch for William Smith and Hobart. THE HERALD they will be hosting, from a possible trip to the
GENEVA MOVIEPLEX 8 AD FRIDAY 2/26 2 COL X 5.5”
A Spirited Review The Original Drink of the Week Since 2006
Admiral Vernon’s Lime Grog This Naval libation was originally intended to control the drunkenness of sailors by Admiral Vernon. To make the combination more palatable they would sweeten the rum and water combination with sugar and lime. The drink can be made to serve a larger group by maintaining a 4:1 or 3:1 ratio of water to rum. Ingredients: Juice of 1 lime, 1 ounce brown sugar 4 ounces water 1 ounce rum (or more, or none at all). Preparation: In a glass, mix the lime juice and the brown sugar. Dilute with the water and rum Drop in the mint. Refrigerate and serve on the rocks (unless you’re a stickler for historical accuracy). The Herald reminds you to enjoy the drink of the week safely and at the appropriate time and location, as long as you are of age…
M O V I E
GENEV A MO VIEPLEX DISCOUNT AVAILABLE GENEVA MOVIEPLEX 371 HAMILTON ST 789-1653 W/VALID COLLEGE ID! TOWN & COUNTRY PLAZA STADIUM SEATING BRUCE WILLIS TRACY MORGAN D T S z12:10z2:25-4:40-7:10S9:30 STADIUM SEATING R z1:05z3:20-5:40-7:50S10:00
DTS R #1 MOVIE! LEONARDO DICAPRIO z1:25-4:10-7:00S9:50 STADIUM SEATING D T S R 9 ACADEMY AWARD NOMS - BEST PICTURE & DIRECTOR
IN DIGITAL 3D
z1:15-4:30-7:40
T I M E S
& DOLBY DIGITAL STADIUM SEATING PG-13
z12:05z2:30-5:00-7:30S9:55
PERCY JACKSON & THE OLYMPIANS
PG-13
PG z12:00z2:20-4:50-7:20S9:45 3 ACADEMY AWARD NOMS - BEST ACTOR JEFF BRIDGES CRAZY HEART z1:45-4:20-6:50S9:15 DOLBY R PG-13 DEAR JOHN z1:45-6:40 R THE WOLFMAN 4:00S8:55 VISIT WWW.ZURICHCINEMAS.COM TO BUY TICKETS ONLINE!
$1POPCORN MONDAYS!
GET A SMALL POPCORN FOR $1 WITH EVERY ADMISSION
zMATINEES FRI-SAT-SUN SLATE SHOWS FRI-SAT-SUN
NON 3D EVENING ADMISSION W/COLLEGE ID $6.75
$5.75 ALL NON 3D SHOWS BEFORE 6:00
FRIDAY, FeBRUARY 26, 2010
8
Sports Vancouver 2010 Olympic Opening Ceremony By Kelsey Lee ’12 and Melissa Warner ‘12 Herald Contributors
On Friday, February 12, 2010, some 60,000 people were crammed inside the arena that hosted the first ever indoor Olympic opening ceremony. The eyes of the world were on Vancouver’s BC Place, as the games of the XXI Winter Olympics launched an extravagant, festive opening ceremony. No one really expected the ceremony to rival the Summer 2008 Opening Ceremony in Beijing, China, but this one certainly demonstrated superb soul and showmanship. Typically, the entertainment portion of the ceremony is succeeded by the Parade of Nations and the torch lighting rite. This year tradition went on the backburner, but the departure allowed the athletes to see most of the ceremony and participate in soulful Olympic festivities. Donald Sutherland narrated the cultural segment that encapsulated a historic journey of the native man trekking across frozen land to modern Vancouver. The story was performed by a snowboarder rolling down a scenic mountain through flames that formed the Canadian Maple Leaf. More than 100 projectors were used to create the otherworldly aquatic landscape that followed. The orcas sprouting across the “ocean” after the glacier broke up were particularly captivating and dreamlike. The ceremony showcased
performances by Sarah McLachlan, Nelly Furtado, and Bryan Adams, who sang renditions of “Bang Your Drum” and “Ordinary Miracle,” accompanied by dancers who
moment. Unfortunately a piece of the stage did not rise as planned, and speed skater Catriona LeMay Doan from Canada was left with an unlit torch.
Photo courtesy of: www.sacbee.com
really added to the effects of the pieces. Interestingly, slam poet Shane Koyczan treated the crowd to his stereotype-defying spoken word poem: “We Are More,” which paid honor to Canada’s aboriginal societies. The lighting of the Olympic cauldron by Wayne Gretzky was the culmination of an exciting ceremony, though a prolonged and slightly awkward cease in action caused by a technical difficulty subtracted from the intensity of the
Photo courtesy of: www.dailyworldbuzz.com
The Opening Ceremony was dedicated to Georgian luger Nodar Kumaritashvili, who lost his life during training. A moment of silence was respectfully observed in his honor, and athletes paid homage to their fallen comrade by wearing black armbands. Lead Vancouver organizer, John Furlong said, “May you carry his Olympic dream on your shoulders and compete with his spirit in your heart.” Although the advertising campaign for the Vancouver
Photo courtesy of: www.examiner.com
Olympics was not as intense as that of Beijing, their program is still being watched with interest by most of the world. The tragic death of Georgian luger Nodar Kumaritashvili raised some questions as to the state of the Whistler sliding center, creating some controversy for the heads of the Olympic committee. Many claim the track is too steep and has too many intense turns, something that contributed to the tragic training accident. Others have raised the question of why the steel pole Kumaritashvili ran into after losing control was unpadded and why there was not more time given for training on one of the fastest tracks in the world. Other Olympians have lost control on the track, such as Armin Zoggeler of Italy who has been anticipated to receive a gold medal this year in the sport. He crashed on the eleventh turn earlier in training but was not seriously harmed. The Olympic committee has lowered the starting points on the track for the luge events in an attempt to increase safety. The death of Nodar Kumaritashvili was a tragic accident and, although luge is a very dangerous sport, perhaps it could have been prevented with more safety measures. The world continues to watch the Olympics with the hope that no more serious problems will occur and that the competition will be safer for athletes.
Photo courtesy of: www.telegraph.co.uk
Upcoming Games Friday, Jan. 26 William Smith Squash vs. Wesleyan 9:00 a.m.
Friday, Feb. 26 Hobart Basketball vs. Skidmore 6:00 p.m.
Saturday, Feb. 27 Hobart Lacrosse TBA. Cornell 1:00 p.m.
Saturday, Feb. 27 Hobart Basketball at Championship 3:00 p.m.
Saturday, Feb. 27 Hobart Ice Hockey at Manhattenville 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, Feb. 27 William Smith Squash vs. TBA TBA
Sunday, Feb. 28 William Smith Squash vs. TBA TBA
Saturday, March 6 Hobart Lacrosse at Colgate 1:00 p.m.
r