~cabrini ldal~ taps the charts

Shannon King Featureseditor

like I didn't have a care in the world," D' Aleo said. "I figured 'If I don't get it, oh well. lfI do, then cool."'

"Outspoken" is produced as part of the video practicum within the English and communications department. Although D' Aleo is hosting the show for recreation, the rest of the crew will receive grades for their work on the show. "I don't want to let them down since it's their grade," he said. "It's their class. I'm just the puppet."

His presence in the video studio is not one of awkwardness, according to junior Matt Comely, a co-producer for the show.

"Anthony has adjusted very quickly, and has learned fast that we are not only here to learn and get credit for this class, but to have fun doing it."

D' Aleo has quickly adapted to this work ethic. His concerns appear to be with producing a good show, while still having fun in the process. "I w~s nervous in the beginning because I was kind of thrown into it, but now I'm a lot more prepared," he said prior to the taping of Cabrini's version of "Celebrity Jeopardy."

Judging by the talent on the televised American Idol auditions, Cabrini would have America topped in a heartbeat. Unlike Simon, the judges of Cabrini Idol had little to say in the wayof negativity.

Held on March 21, Cabrini Idol drew in an impressive crowd that made the Food Court bust at the seams. Parents, siblings, friends and students came out to support what turned out to be an incredibly talented group of contestants.

"I was surprised to -see that there was so much talent on campus because you never really hear about it," Maria Chambers, a senior who made it to the fmal round said.

Judges Andrea Manieri, class of '01 and dance team co-coach, Christine Lysionek, vice president of Student Development and Dr. Jolyon Girard, history and political science professor, could only comment negatively on the nervousness of the contestants

The general opinion among contestants and audience members about the first Resident Hall Association -run event was that it was enjoyable and surprisingly supportive.

M;.TT COMELY/GUESTPHOTOGRAPHER

Anthony D'Aleo hosts a "Cabrini Celebrity Jeopardy" segment for "Outspoken," campus variety show. media, as well as adding imperative experience to his resume. This future sports broadcaster, originating from Cape May, N.J., is currently in the process of selling his talent to local small-market news networks within the Allentown and Reading areas, and also in southern Florida.

His cool, relaxed personality played a major role in his approach while auditioning for "Outspoken." "I just went in there, what I want to do. I've always dreamed of being a singer. Everyone involved was really supportive and we encouraged each other. It was a lot of fun.

Rapidly becoming a local celebrity due to posters plastered across campus bearing a halfsmiling D' Aleo with an assuring thumbs-up, his modesty serves as a balance for his new-found stardom. "I've been getting a lot of stuff from my friends about it. I guess it's fun having people know who I am."

"Anthony's personality is great. He is charismatic and approachable, and is well-known throughout the school," Cornely said. "Casting next year will be tough as Anthony will be a tough act to follow, but we are confident that someone will step up to the challenge."

Perhaps the best part of the event was how many people turned out to support their peers.

''We had a really great turnout."

Chambers said. "I wasn't expecting so many people."

Seven of the contestants made it into the final round where the judges placed the final decision in the hands of the audience. After a final round that garnered standing ovations, Megan Mirzoeff was declared the firstever Cabrini Idol winning a $40 gift certificate to FYE, flowers and the ultimate prize of a recording contract through WYBF 89. l The Burn, the campus radio station. She will be able to record a song in the radio station to be burned on CD for airplay and for her own personal use.

"I really wish it wasn't a competition," MirzoefT said. "If I could do it all over again I would and I would do it with the same people."

Jen Culligan, a freshman who made it into the final round said, "It was a good experience to get in front of my peers and sing. It was good practice because that's