February 28, 2013 - Issue 5 by MCLA Beacon

Student Newspaper of Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts

For more content, visit online at: beacon.mcla.edu

North Adams, Mass.

Volume 77 ◆ Issue 5

Th u r s d ay, F e b rua r y 2 8 , 2 0 1 3

Denise Richardello elected to College Board Council NERO member held council session focusing on college recruitment programs

By Nick Arena

Managing Editor Denise Richardello, vice president of enrollment and external relations, earned her election in January to the New England Regional Office (NERO) of the College Board Council. The three-year term, her second appointment, will be Richardello’s first full-length term as a council member, in which she will serve alongside faculty and administration from schools all over New England. Last year she was appointed to the position by the president of the NERO. “What they do is, annually, they look for representation on this board from secondary schools, colleges, financial aid, and admissions and enrollment, so they have a bit of variety,” Richardello said. The representation varies among private and public institutions, and among positions in the institutions; totaling to about 25 members, according to Richardello. Her current position is “member at large,” a traditional board member. However, she said that her position could change over the span of her three-year term. “I’m very excited about being voted in for a three-year term for

two reasons: I think, personally, it’s going to help me professionally as well as the institution, it’s great to have MCLA sitting on the College Board and being able to offer insight as to how we manage the things we do so very well,” she said. “It’s really all about folks learning more about MCLA.” So far, she has helped with session and forum planning, as well as helping to facilitate and coordinate a session from this January’s forum, “Collaborate!: A Blueprint for Student Success.” “I was responsible for finding other folks to sit on the panel, for doing some research as to what we were going to talk about, going through and organizing it, and then, at the conference itself, I was responsible for facilitating that session,” she said. According to Richardello, the forum revolved around using technology in college counseling. The forum’s keynote speaker was the College’s own President Mary Grant, who touched upon subjects such as counseling in high school, using the Internet to keep students engaged, and early college recruitment programs. Her session also focused on college recruitment programs, which ties into her position here at the College, especially external

relations. The Berkshire Compact is a part of these programs. “The Berkshire Compact has more than 80 members that meet as a group on a regular basis and participate on subcommittees focused on raising student aspirations to attend college and making connections between workforce needs and the education system,” reads the College’s website. Richardello’s session was titled “Starting College Recruitment Early: Engaging Younger Students on Campus, and it tied neatly into the Compact’s goals. “This session will discuss some of the ways in which college campuses are working with younger students (early high school age, middle school age and even younger) who are not yet at the ‘recruitment stage’, and how institutions are coping with increasing resource requirements to successfully execute these programs,” according to NERO’s forum session outline. Richardello is looking forward to working with the other members of NERO and bringing new ideas back to the College. “Being able to be working with other professionals in similar positions to gain some insight on those best practices: it’s a perfect fit,” she said.

Women’s Center to hold workshop By Andrew Hodgson Staff Writer

One of the most important skills in the professional world is networking. For women, the world of business networking can seem like an “Old Boy’s” club. On Monday the Women’s Center will host a Savvy Socializing Workshop, facilitated by Nancy Harvin, Chief Advancement Officer from The Clark. The event is part of the Campus Action Project’s (CAP) Susan B. Anthony Women’s Leadership Series. “Women are less likely than men to network due to a number of factors, including lack of confidence in the networking environment, limited experience and knowledge of effective networking, and the absence of role mod-

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Photo Courtesy of Bernadette Lupo

Denise Richardello, vice president of enrollment and external relations.

See full story, page 7

els and mentors with expertise in this area,” Ojae Michal Beale, Ed.D., independent consultant for the Center for Student Engagement and Success said. The event will deal with all of these issues by providing a mentor to run the event and an environment for students to dialogue about networking. The culmination is the interactive portion where female students will practice networking among themselves. According to Beale, the goal of the workshop is to increase female students’ confidence and their knowledge of effective networking. It will also focus on helping participants feel comfortable in the professional environment.

Photo by Kacie Clark/Beacon Staff

SAVVY, continued on page 5

Howard Robot of My Robot Friend, in his full body, light-up suit, talking to an audience member.

Student reflects on recent China trip

Allegrettos’ Gospel Concert brings energy

Men’s Basketball doesn’t make final cut

Junior Mimi Henault shares her experiences

The concert held last Friday and Saturday went “Back to Basics”

The team attempted to make history last Saturday

News, page 4

Arts & Entertainment, page 7

Sports, page 8

News 2-5 Arts & Entertainment 6-7 Sports 8-9 Campus Comment 10 Fun & Games 11 Photo Essay 12

News

Thursday, February 21, 2013

Public Safety Logs Sunday, February 17 9:34 a.m. - Public Safety responded to a medical call from the North Adams Hospital. 1:31 p.m. - Public Safety responded to a medical call. Subject was transported to the North Adams Hospital. 10:59 p.m. - Public Safety responded to a medical call. A Flagg Townhouse resident was transported to the North Adams Hospital. Monday, February 18 8:39 p.m. - Public Safety responded to a fire emergency in the Flagg Townhouses. The fire was extinguished. Tuesday, February 19 3:19 p.m. - Public Safety responded to a medical call. A Hoosac Hall resident was transported to the North Adams Hospital. 11:57 p.m. - Public Safety responded to a medical call. A Hoosac Hall resident was transported to the North Adams Hospital. Wednesday, February 20 4:26 p.m. - Public Safety responded to a medical call. A Hoosac Hall resident was transported to the North Adams Hospital. Thursday, February 21 3:04 p.m. - Public Safety issued a warning or citation to a vehicle parked in the resident Hoosac Hall parking lot. Friday, February 22 2:36 p.m. - Public Safety responded to a vehicle jumpstart on Ashland St. Saturday, February 23 7:31 p.m. - Public Safety responded to a sounding alarm in the Flagg Townhouses. It was determined to be an accident.

beacon.mcla.edu

Cafe offers healthier options By Ryan Flynn Staff Writer

Eat to Total Health is a new business that sells and ships allnatural and allergy-free food products, but there’s much more to the café. Since launching her business in August and opening shop in December, owner Renee Tassone has been offering three-week to three-month nutritional cleanses, helping people become healthier and overcome both food and nonfood related illnesses. In fact, out of the 700 people who have undergone the cleanse program, 10 of them have been MCLA students. Participants have taken part in the cleanse to help with a variety of illnesses that including diabetes, joint pain, and depression, she said. “The customers have been great,” she said. “Some were very ill and the doctors weren’t sure what

was going on.” While a cleanse may seem expensive, Tassone’s are only $30, as she says she wants to keep it as affordable as possible. “I keep it very low so [people are] not deterred by the price,” she said. So far, Tassone noted that people from various states such as Virginia, Connecticut, Vermont and Florida have undergone her cleanse program. People from ages 6 to 81 have undergone the cleanse as well. “It’s been all over the place,” she said. “It’s been great.” Tassone noted that she was inspired to open Eat to Total Health due to her own health problems. “I myself have a food allergy: celiac disease,” she said. “That’s why I started this.” As far as the restaurant goes, Tassone offers all-natural smoothies and food is strictly

vegan. “There are no animal proteins and no allergens,” she said. While students have frequently stopped by her café, Tassone said she’s hoping to be added to the Blazer Bucks program for the upcoming semester. “I am looking into getting hooked up with it, and I’m hoping to do so by the end of the month,” she said. She offers specialized catering for parties and events, and recently hosted a seminar Saturday Feb. 23 at Frog Lotus Yoga Studio located on 189 Beaver St. The event also included a detoxifying yoga class. The total cost for the seminar was $20, but only $15 for students. She also said she is open to offering a discount to students and would like to host a seminar at the school in the future. In addition, she said she would even consider giving students a discount on the nutritional cleanse.

“I do have to work out the details, but I would consider offering a cleanse discount or offering a talk at the school,” she said. Tassone has hosted seminars at gyms, schools, and businesses and has even hosted cooking demos. “If one or more guests have a food allergy, then I’ll provide them with a dish,” she said. Tassone noted that with students, the smoothies have been her most popular product, especially the “green smoothie.” She added that she is on a first name basis with many student customers. For students interested in eating at Eat to Total Health or participating in the cleanse program, go to eattototalhealth. com or visit the shop, located at 14 Ashland St. and open from Monday through Friday 11 a.m. 7 p.m., and Saturdays 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

SGA senators are sworn into office By Chris Goodell Staff Writer

The three winners from last week’s Student Government Association (SGA) special election were officially sworn in Monday night. Sophomores Danielle Bloh and Taylor Krowitz were elected as Class of 2015 Senate representative and Senator at Large, respectively. SGA President Jason Brown administered the oaths of office. Brown also swore in current Senator Evan Pirnie to his new position as Class of 2015 Treasurer. “I’m very pleased to see the new additions to the student senate and class offices,” Brown said. “I’m excited to work with everyone as we move forward in the semester.” A total of 84 students voted in the Feb. 20 election. Krowitz garnered 75 votes, Bloh received 26, and Pirnie received 21. Supplemental budget request Colleges Against Cancer (CAC) has submitted a supplemental budget request to the SGA in the amount of $2,300 for Relay for Life, according to SGA Treasurer James Wetzel. The MCLA campus did not host Relay for Life in 2012, but Wetzel pointed out that the event

raised approximately $27,000 for cancer research in 2011. Senator Stephan Rochefort questioned whether this event was included in CAC’s initial budget request submitted last year. Brown pointed out that the Budget and Finance Committee (BFC) originally cut the event from CAC’s budget because it was unclear if it would happen, but that the SGA has provided funding for Relay for Life in the past. In previous years, the College has partnered with Berkshire Community College and Williams College to bring Relay for Life to the MCLA campus. Budget process update

According to Brown, the SGA received over $500,000 in club budget requests. Wetzel stated that he hopes to have the BFC’s full budget recommendations ready to present to the SGA by the March 18 meeting. Wetzel provided the SGA with a graph outlining the amounts requested from clubs and the amounts provided to clubs since 2007. There has been a steady upward trend in both categories over that time, due in part to the increased number of clubs on campus. Wetzel urged the senate to review the data and return next

Photo by Dennise Carranza/ Beacon Staff

Sophomores Danielle Bloh and Taylor Krowitz sworn in by President Jason Brown on Monday.

week with any questions on the budget process. “Take notice of the difference between the amount requested and the revenue,” Wetzel said. In 2012 the amount of money approved for club budgets exceeded the amount of revenue, determined by the student activity fee. Wetzel stated that the extra money came from a reserve fun. ARAMARK update Senate Chair Brendan Peltier announced that ARAMARK went through 13 cases, or approximately 350 pounds, of the ever-popular chicken tenders on

Feb. 14. Several campus locations are also now offering the use of reusable coffee cups at a 10 cent discount. “I would like to thank ARAMARK for their reusable cup initiative,” Senator Catt Chaput said, noting the idea had been several years in the making. According to Peltier, the Centennial Room will be serving fish for lunch and dinner every Friday during Lent. The C-store will no longer carry Ben & Jerry’s brand ice cream, Peltier said, opting for a rotation of Hershey’s brand flavors instead.

Weekend Weather 2/28 - 3/3 Thursday, February 28

Friday, March 1

Saturday, March 2

Sunday, March 3

Showers High: 40° Low: 27° Precip. Chance: 60%

Rain / Snow High: 37° Low: 21° Precip. Chance: 20%

Mostly Cloudy High: 36° Low: 15° Precip. Chance: 0%

Mostly Cloudy High: 31° Low: 15° Precip. Chance: 0%

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News

Thursday, February 28, 2013

Beacon.mcla.edu

Faculty gives insight on post-grad life By Jack Guerino Staff Writer

The faculty panel explained the importance of a five-year plan and asked students to focus on where they want to be in that time. The panel members spoke to students about their own experiences entering the job market, and choosing graduate programs. “It doesn’t even have to be written in stone because it’s subject to change, but if you can mentally envision yourself, what you do in the interim will be those stepping stones that will lead to where you want to be,” Web Communications Manager McCulloch-Dews said. “Everything you do from this point on will be tailored towards the end result.” Ojae Michal Beale, consultant of the Susan B. Anthony Women’s Center added that students, while focusing on a specific plan, should also keep an open mind. “Make your career goals broad but specific because if you make them specific and not broad you can miss some opportunities that will take you in different directions that are equally as exciting,” Beale said. Start planning now McCulloch-Dews stressed the urgency of creating a plan for after graduation. “If you’re a senior or if you are a junior, the time to think about what you are going to do is not when you take that [graduation] robe off and you’re at home, that question should be asked right now,” she said. Himes added to this and

Photo by Jack Guerino/Beacon Staff

From left to right: Christopher Himes, OjaeMichal Beale, and Roberta McCulloch-Dews speaking to students on their post-graduation experience. advised students to start developing the skill sets needed in their plan for their specific job interest. “Look for internships, look for ways to interact with employers, start looking early on what credentials you will need for a job,” Himes said. Not only did the panel focus on the career aspect of a fiveyear plan, but also addressed the social aspects of it. Speakers urged student’s to take into account what they want their lives to be like in the future. “For myself it took some selfreflection, I had to start broad and think about what is the job I’d like to be doing and the lifestyle I’d want to live,” Himes said. “They aren’t totally separate categories.” The panel also asked students to take into account their target career when creating their plan.

“If your field is not one where you need a degree right away, then get the experience instead,” McCulloch-Dews said. “Get into a job where you can get hands on experience and learn as much as you can.” Do not rush into degrees Himes also discussed the importance of not rushing into expensive and unneeded degrees. “I knew a lot of people who went into a PhD program because they didn’t know what else to do,” Himes said. “It’s not a naturally fun thing necessarily, and career development wise, it’s not great to invest six years into a degree past your undergraduate and not be sure how you are going to use it or even if you want to use it.” The Panel also discussed and answered questions about the importance of finding and using

effective mentors. “I don’t think I would have made it through my PhD if I didn’t have a mentor,” Himes said. “At different stages you have mentors that do different things for you, and I think it’s real important to keep your eyes out for those people.” Beale explained the importance of properly finding a mentor that works for the student. “You want someone who is able to give you objective feedback and able to tell you things you don’t want to hear, but that are in your best interest,” Beale said. “You need someone who has experience in the direction you want to go.” McCulloch-Dews explained how she searched for a mentor who she looked up to in the field of journalism. “I looked for people I wanted

to model after,” McCullochDews said. “There should be aspirational qualities in that person, you should be able to glean from them, and they should be in the same field as you.” Himes explained that having a mentor is not a one way street and that students should not feel selfish utilizing them. “It’s not like you are just going to them for advice, they’re going to get something out of it, too,” he said. The panel stressed the importance of versatility and being able to adapt to different situations. Along with this, they encouraged developing a large collection of skills that could be applied to multiple situations. “You want to be able to have a nice arsenal of skills that you can take wherever,” McCulloch-Dews said. “Wherever you go, learn as much as you can and make sure your skill set is broad so you can apply it to any job you go to.” Beale reflected on her professional careers and the many skills she learned on the path to her main career goals. “Learn how to leverage the experiences you have on the college campus and learn how to use those to speak to the skills the job requires,” Beale said. “It’s like being a mechanic that can work on any kind of car.” McCulloch-Dews concluded by telling students to take control of their future. “Really, at the end of the day, it’s how do you get where you want to go and it’s almost like planning a trip,” she said. “You want to make sure all the logistics are covered, make sure the road map of your life covers all the basics.”

Financial Aid Announcement

Career Fair at Westfield State University

IT’S TIME TO REAPPLY FOR FINANCIAL AID FOR 2013-2014!

The Career Center at Westfield State University cordially invites MCLA students to partake in the 5th Annual Career, Internship, & Graduate School Fair. MCLA Career Services will provide transportation to this event. Space is limited. Professional attire and MANY copies of an updated resume are required.

MARCH 1st PRIORITY DEADLINE REMEMBER TO CHECK YOUR FIRSTCLASS EMAIL FOR ANY REQUESTED INFORMATION NEEDED TO COMPLETE YOUR FILE.

Scholarship Opportunity

The Theodore Gordon Flyfishers, Inc. Founders Fun Scholarship $3500 awarded to an undergraduate student who will have senior status as of Fall 2013 or a graduate student. Must be enrolled in an environmental field of study. Applicant must demonstrate merit with a current 3.5 GPA in the environmental concentration courses and an overall minimum of a 3.0 GPA. Applications available in the Financial Aid Office. Due by April 1st, 2013.

Visit Career Services, 2nd Floor Eldridge, to pre-register for this event. Pre-registration is REQUIRED. Career Services reserves the right to cancel this trip prior to the date of departure if registration numbers are not adequate.

Wednesday, March 6, 2013 1:30-4:00 PM

Departure Time from Campus @ 12:00 PM Location: Montana Street

Thursday, February 28, 2013

News

Beacon.mcla.edu

Ben Kahn: A man of many nations By Mimi Henault

Special to the Beacon A house adorned with Chinese memorabilia, watercolor paintings, Russian dolls, and a heavy Middle Eastern and Jewish influence, is home to a man with even more. A man of no larger than 5-feet tall who has made a tremendous impact on the world. Impeccably dressed, he has a way of presenting himself as a man who means business. If someone took the time to talk to him however, you can notice the lines set in his face from a long life and a lot of laughs, showing both his age and wisdom. Things have not always been easy for Ben Kahn, but his cheerful demeanor and passion for life make him very easy to talk to. As a professor of business and economics and is a also a very knowledgeable world traveler. Traveling has taught him a lot and opened his eyes to the world, something he is very passionate about passing down to students. Every spring, he teaches a travel course to China and takes students from MCLA for 10 days to explore and learn the Chinese culture. “You discover yourself by evaluating yourself,” Kahn said passionately. “As long as you are at home you have a false sense of security. Education means to make you think about who you are so you can take command and leadership and improve life.” He said he believes that

education is more rules and regulations, than just completing and businesses. There curriculum needed are many drastic for a degree, but differences between to step away from the US and China, such yourself and discover as in a human resource who you are and perspective, company the impact you can organizations, and make on the world. services in general. This concept can Although China is only truly happen by more perceptive in traveling outside of bargaining, we as one’s comfort zone. Americans are more “I like to think structured in our that traveling will businesses and retail have a lifelong systems.” impact. Students are not the same when A Man of Many they come back from Nations abroad,” Kahn said about his China trip Born in Tehran, and other studying a part of Persia now abroad programs in known as Iran, Kahn is China. a man of many nations. Along with He studied economics teaching and his and management spring China trip, he and minored in initiated the exchange mathematics in program between his undergraduate MCLA and two years and tutored universities in China. throughout them as This program has well, sparking his love Photo Courtesy of Mimi Henault of teaching. In 1967 brought “sensitivity and cultural The Lin Ying Temple, one of the oldest ancient uprisings began in diversity” to the Buddhist monk temples in China. Iran and there was a college for students lot of turmoil in the Walker, who took classes with who couldn’t go country during the Kahn and also studied abroad. time of King Phalavia and Shaw's overseas by bringing them here. “Ben Kahn is a very inspiring “Studying in Shanghai China government. As a Jewish student person and is very convincing. He made me appreciate America in a Muslim dominated country, convinced me to go to China and and our system of organization he knew he had to leave. always helps me with my academic and good quality of customer Kahn moved to the United choices,” said senior Deyana service. It also gave me a better States in 1975 after being accepted perspective on governments,

to an MBA program at Texas A&I. He spent a lot of time with a cousin in Albany, N.Y. and had hopes of attending school in California. This dream was short lived when his cousin had to leave the country due to technical issues, Kahn decided he didn't want to go to California alone. He chose to stay in Albany, where he met his wife Libby, and finish his education at Sage University. After school, he gained his first teaching job at Saint Laurence University in N.Y. At this school, he taught scholarly students, with wealthy backgrounds and their futures seemingly mapped out, he said. He taught students like Eleanor Mondale, daughter of the vice president of the United States in 1979 during the presidency of Jimmy Carter. When a job at MCLA opened up he evaluated his job at St. Laurence and asked himself, “How am I really helping these kids?” He was inspired to work at MCLA because of the diversity of backgrounds of the students and his ability to really make a difference in their lives. “He's made me realize it’s a big world,” said freshman Jared Kahn, Ben Kahn’s nephew. “He's inspired me to open my eyes to different cultures and ways of life and see how other countries view America.” Jared has plans to study abroad in China in fall 2013, describing his uncle as “very influential and open-minded to everything.”

Henault’s personal journey to China By Mimi Henault

Special to the Beacon In the late fall of last semester, I was able to take my own journey to China to experience the other side of the world for myself. While I was there I experienced a multitude of things that I feel have made a tremendous impact on my life. I had never traveled before, and by never I mean it was my first time on a plane, so I was nervous to say the least. After a smooth but anxiety-filled 16 hours, I had landed in Shanghai, China, the business capital of the world. The first thing I found so remarkable was the amount of pollution in the air after I stepped through the airport and into the city. Not only was the air heavy with cigarette smoke, but it also looked as if it were a cloudy day when I looked around. I learned that this is to be expected in China, and as I traveled around I found a lot of local Chinese wore surgical masks over their faces to protect their lungs from pollution. Another thing I found fascinating was the tremendous gap between the rich and the poor. There seemed to be no real middle-class. The rich were filthy rich and the poor were dirt poor. On the busy streets, the majority of cars were either brand-new Rolls Royces, BMWs or very old, barley-running, standard Volkswagens. I found myself amazed by the beauty of the land in China,

despite the pollution and dirty city streets. I travelled outside of Shanghai to the ancient city of Hong Zhou, a city filled with ancient Buddhist temples, lush green land and a huge, beautiful lake that is centered in the middle of the city. Traveling to China opened my eyes to the world and how differently it is viewed by other people. I have a deeper understanding of the importance of traveling. Despite my initial fear of flying, I Photo Courtesy of Mimi Henault have caught the travel bug and cannot wait Henault stands in front of the jelly fish tank at the Shanghai to explore the world Aquarium. further.

Henault walks across walking across a stone waterfall bridge in an ancient Buddhist monk park in Hong Zhou.

@BeaconMCLA_EIC or @BeaconMCLA_AE

News

Thursday, February 28, 2013

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Immigration agency releases detained immigrants citing sequester MCT Campus

WASHINGTON — Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials have released “several hundred” immigrants from deportation centers across the country, saying the move is an effort to trim costs ahead of budget cuts due to hit later this week. Announcing the news on Tuesday, ICE officials said that the immigrants were released under supervision and continue to face deportation. After reviewing hundreds of cases, those released were considered low-risk and “noncriminal,” officials said. The releases took place over the past week and were an effort “to ensure detention levels stay within ICE’s current budget,” said ICE spokeswoman Gillian Christiansen, citing uncertainty caused by a budget standoff in Washington. “All of these individuals remain in removal proceedings. Priority for detention remains on serious criminal offenders and other individuals who pose a significant threat to public safety,” she said. Much of the federal government is braced to feel the pinch from $85 billion in across-theboard budget cuts due to start

on Friday. Both Republicans and Democrats have said they oppose the cuts, but the two parties cannot agree on a budget deal that would avert them. ICE’s decision was praised by some who have long criticized the rise in detentions and deportations under the Obama administration. Human rights and immigration advocates have accused the administration of ramping up arrests in response to political pressure. “We have long advocated for expanded use of alternatives to detention, a step we knew would save taxpayers millions of dollars,” said Ruthie Epstein of Human Rights First. “It is a shame that it took the threat of serious budget cuts to prompt this move. Even so, ICE’s decision makes clear that the government can save money by reforming its approach to immigration detention.” Officials say the released detainees are under other forms of supervision, including electronic and telephonic monitoring. Their cases continue to proceed in court. Still, some Republicans blasted the announcement as part of the White House’s attempt to gin up

public outcry about the looming spending cuts. House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte said the decision was a political ploy that put the public in danger. “It’s abhorrent that President Obama is releasing criminals into our communities to promote his political agenda on sequestration,” the Virginia Republican said in a statement. “By releasing criminal immigrants onto the streets, the administration is needlessly endangering American lives.” Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano hinted at the coming news on Monday, when she outlined the impact the budget cuts would have on her agencies. Napolitano said ICE would not be able to maintain its inventory of detention beds if the department is forced to cut roughly 5 percent of its budget this year. “Look, we’re doing our very best to minimize the impacts of sequester. But there’s only so much I can do,” Napolitano said. “I’m supposed to have 34,000 detention beds for immigration. How do I pay for those? We want to maintain 22,000-some odd Border Patrol agents. I got to be able to pay their salaries.”

with students. “My role was to meet with her and discuss a possible collaboration,” Beale said. After meeting with Degen and Beale, Harvin agreed to emcee the event. “Ms. Harvin is donating her time and expertise for this event,” Beale said, to show how important it is for local female professionals to pass on their knowledge. The other costs for the event are provided by the American Association of University Women (AAUW).

“Charlotte and I met with Ms. Harvin at The Clark where we begin the process of developing this workshop,” Beale said. The collaboration is yet another facet of the campus administration bringing education outside of the classroom to compliment the academic curriculum. The Savvy Socializing Workshop will begin at 7 p.m. Pre-registration is required, as the event is limited to 50 participants. Registration forms can be found in the Women’s Center.

Savvy Socializing workshop to help networking techniques and skills SAVVY, continued from page 1 Students will hear from Harvin about her experiences and get advice about networking techniques. After, there will be a live networking session. Splitting up the event makes sure the students get an opportunity to put networking skills to use. Beale worked alongside Charlotte Degen, Vice President of Student Affairs, to bring a local female professional to run the workshop and share her insights

Senate confirms Chuck Hagel as new defense secretary MCT Campus

WASHINGTON - The Senate voted Tuesday to confirm Chuck Hagel, a Vietnam War veteran and former Republican senator from Nebraska, as the 24th secretary of defense after a brutal confirmation process that saw members of his own party question his capacity to lead the Pentagon. Just hours after a vote to end the first-ever filibuster of a defense nominee, Hagel was approved 58-41, by far the narrowest margin for a successful appointment going back to the Carter administration. Hagel could get to work at the Pentagon as soon as Wednesday. President Barack Obama announced his choice of Hagel to lead the Pentagon on Jan. 7, calling him “the leader that our troops deserve.” A sergeant in Vietnam and two-time Purple Heart recipient, Hagel becomes the first veteran of that war and the first former enlisted man to become defense secretary. Hagel’s 2008 trip to Iraq and Afghanistan with Obama, then the Democratic presidential nominee, in part drove Republican opposition to installing one of their own former colleagues in the Pentagon. In the weeks that followed, critics also pored over his past speeches and other public statements to question his views on Israel, Iran and other international hot spots. Democrats also had concerns, including Hagel’s objection to the appointment of an openly gay man as ambassador to Luxembourg during the Clinton administration. The former senator apologized for his comments even before

Obama officially nominated him. Opposition grew to Hagel’s appointment after a dismal performance at his confirmation hearing. Two days after the Senate Armed Service Committee moved his nomination on a partyline vote, Senate Republicans mounted a filibuster to delay a final confirmation vote, saying they needed additional time to review his record and get answers to questions. Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., also used Hagel’s nomination as leverage to press the Obama administration to answer his questions about the terrorist raid on a U.S. diplomatic facility in Libya that led to four American fatalities, including the ambassador. Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas, a freshman and outspoken conservative, went so far as to suggest that Hagel may have received income from enemy states like North Korea. No new bombshells emerged during a 10-day Presidents Day week recess, however, and 14 Republicans switched their votes to end the filibuster. Sen. Carl Levin, D-Mich., chairman of the Armed Services Committee, said the “over-thetop” opposition from some Republicans ultimately paved the way for confirmation. Among Hagel’s most immediate challenges could be guiding the military through looming cuts to the defense budget - 13 percent in the current fiscal year, according to the Office of Management and Budget - because of the automatic budget cuts scheduled to take effect Friday.

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COMING FALL OF 2013

NEW STUDENT OFF-CAMPUS HOUSING

-Convenient location adjacent to 16 and 20 Blackinton Streets.

Moresi & Associates, the premier provider of student off-campus housing, is growing with the addition of 4 more newly renovated 4 bedroom student townhouses and a brand new parking lot to accommodate new and present tenants. CALL TODAY TO GET ON THE LIST: (413) 663-8677 ext.1

-New kitchen and bathrooms with oversize showers and vanities. -Small central courtyard for grilling & chilling adjacent to our other student rentals. -New life safety upgrades to building making this and all of our properties some of the safest residences to live in off campus. -All new high efficiency heating systems. -24/7 on-call maintenance from a management firm that is easy to deal with.

Thursday, February 28, 2012

Arts & Entertainment

Beacon.mcla.edu

Gospelfest to return

The Campbell Brothers headline annual MCLA Presents! scholarship concert Fair and balanced: The art of critique By Shannen Adamites

A&E Editor I’m not a professional. I’m just a student with a lot of opinions. One of the first, most fundamental things about reporting is remaining unbiased. Coverage is one thing. A reporter can’t go to an event and start listing off every single thing enjoyed or hated; that would entail an unfair bias. In this case, it’s a good idea to report on exactly what happened while getting commentary from other sources so both positive and negative views are acknowledged. Critiquing, however, is different. Reviews are opinionated and don’t need to be “fair.” The arts are subjective, after all. Not everyone is going to like everything, and reporters do in fact have the right to voice their opinion in this circumstance. But a critique needs to be justified. Why was something enjoyable? Why wasn’t it? What specific thing did the artist, actor, musician, or dancer do that enthralled or deterred the audience from returning? Balance must also be achieved. For each thing enjoyed, find something not, and vice versa. Ask people for their opinions so their statements can further support or disagree, for the sake of representing multiple positions. Keep in mind other factors which might impact the overall quality. Perhaps an actor is recovering from the flu, a singer has laryngitis, or the artist was asked at the last minute to do an exhibition.People working in creative industries try their best to achieve perfection, even with sickness or a lack of resources. Don’t even get me started on columns. Those are a completely separate entity. They’re essentially a free-for-all: a much more casual approach to addressing an issue. As long as these are grammatically correct and aren’t blatantly offensive, anything goes. When it comes to receiving criticism, it’s important to note writers are not offering advice or direction, per say, but simply stating and commenting on what they see. Criticism from a writer is by no means less important than itcoming from a director or professor. Think of it as an outsider trying to become acquainted with the creative world. They’re trying their best to understand it, but don’t be completely offended if they simply can’t. To make a long story short, critique is absolutely necessary to report. It not only gives the reader a personalized perspective of an event, but also, when read with an open mind, can be taken as a way to improve future creative endeavors.

The Campbell Brothers will bring their signature “sacred steel” guitars to the College as they headline this year’s return of the GospelFest on Saturday, March 2, at the Church Street Center auditorium at 7 p.m., for the annual Margaret A. Hart ’35 Scholarship concert. The GospelFest is a presentation of the MCLA Presents! performance series. In addition to the Campbell Brothers, who will perform with vocalist Katie Jackson, Harold “Zion” Edwards and the College’s awardingwinning Allegrettos will open the concert. “It is great to have GospelFest back after a few years’ hiatus,” said Jonathan Secor, director of special programs at the College “We have had some great artists over the past three years for this annual fundraiser concert for the Margaret A. Hart ’35 Scholarship, but there is a certain high-octane energy that only comes with a GospelFest.” “I can’t imagine people will be able to stay in their seats for more than five minutes when the Campbell Brothers take the stage,” Secor continued. “Their style of electric lap steel guitar gospel, with amazing vocals floating on top, is in a class and genre all to itself. I first saw them five years ago in New Orleans where they were the toast of the gospel tent at the Jazz and Heritage Festival. They had thousands on their feet.” The Campbell Brothers, who have performed together for nearly two decades, create a unique, steel-guitar-driven gospel music called “sacred steel” that National Public Radio (NPR) called “earthshattering.” “It’s a soul-stirring blend of gospel and the power and volume of electric blues and rock, a sound

Photo courtesy of MCLA Presents! Gospelfest headliner, The Campbell Brothers, are famous for their signature “sacred steel sound.” as hot as brimstone that kicks holy butt. It also shreds perceptions of country’s signature instrument, and the limitations of church music,” according to NPR. According to Jim DeKoster of Living Blues, the Campbell Brothers’ music is “different from anything you’ve ever heard” and “essential listening for anyone interested in blues guitar.” Opening for the Campbell Brothers will be Harold “Zion” Edwards, a minister and gospel rap artist. Edwards, the founder of Christ Centered Music Ministries, travels nationally, teaching and ministering, and was twice named the Holy Hip Hop Artist – in 2004 and ’07 – by WSOK Gospel Music Awards. According to Nikab Productions, “There are very few who can rip a mic” like Edwards. “The CD is a complete package of ministry,

tight beats, tight lyrics that really grab your mind and heart.” The Allegrettos, who were the first-place winners of the recent Lenox Caroling Festival, also will perform at GospelFest. According to Allegrettos CoDirector Juwonni Cottle ’13, the Allegrettos aim to capture the heart and soul of what gospel music is all about, which is to inspire. “I can’t wait to see what the Allegrettos are going to do. For the past year they have had a gospel ‘branch,’ rehearsing gospel music,” Secor said. “Zion is new to us, and brings an urban sensibility, with the message flowing through rap and hip hop.” Each year, MCLA Presents! raises money for the scholarship that has been established to honor the college’s first African American graduate, Margaret A. Hart, who

is a member of the North Adams State Teachers College Class of 1935. A teacher and civil rights activist, Hart had a distinguished career in education that spanned more than five decades. The scholarship is awarded to a Berkshire County Student who demonstrates academic excellence and service to the community. Tickets are $10 general admission, $5 for MCLA faculty and staff and non-MCLA students with valid id, and free for MCLA students. All proceeds from this concert will benefit the Margaret A. Hart ’35 Scholarship. For reservations to GospelFest, call the box office at 662-5204. For additional information and a complete listing of the MCLA Presents! season, go to www. mcla.edu/presents or call 6648718.

‘Argo’ takes home three Oscars Photo by MCT Campus

Production team and Ben Affleck for ‘Argo’ celebrates their multiple victories.

Photo by MCT Campus

From left: Daniel Day-Lewis, Jennifer Lawrence, Anne Hathaway and Christopher Waltz.

85thAcademy Awards recap Best Picture: Argo Actor: Daniel Day-Lewis Actress: Jennifer Lawrence Supporting Actor: Christoph Waltz Supporting Actress: Anne Hathaway Directing: Ang Lee Foreign Film: Amour Adapted Screenplay: Argo Original Screenplay: Django Unchained Animated Film: Brave Production Design: Lincoln Cinematography: Life of Pi

Associated Press

Sound Mixing: Les Miserables Sound Editing: Skyfall, Zero Dark Thirty (tied) Original Score: Life of Pi Original Song: “Skyfall’’ from Skyfall by Adele Costume: Anna Karenina Documentary: Searching for Sugar Man Documentary (short): Inocente Film Editing: Argo Makeup and Hair: Les Miserables Animated Short Film: Paperman Live Action Short Film: Curfew Visual Effects: Life of Pi

Thursday, February 28, 2013

Arts & Entertainment

Beacon.mcla.edu

‘Grettos go “Back to Basics”

The Allegrettos demonstrated how gospel can be for everyone in two performances last weekend By Haley Costen A&E Writer

“We’re not going to tell you how to feel; We want you to feel it for yourselves,” said J. Cottle, Director and founding member of the Allegrettos, before the start of the “Back to Basics” gospel concert in Church Street Center on Saturday. The concert, which was also performed last Friday, was composed primarily of praise and worship songs, but Cottle expressed his belief, both onstage and in the concert program, that gospel does not have to be a religious experience. However, while the audience didn’t necessarily need to love Jesus, they did need to look alive. “The audience will participate,” freshman Jamiece Shepard, one of the four MCs of the concert, assured the crowd of about 60 people. With the exception of a few stragglers, the audience was brought to their feet, clapping, dancing and singing along to praise songs like “Sit At The Welcome Table,” “I Looked Down the Road,” and “Say the Word.” Still reeling from a second place win at the quarter finals of the International Championship of Collegiate A Cappella (ICCA) in Boston, the a capella section of the

group did a special performance of “Happy Ending” by Brit-pop singer Mika, which they had performed in the competition. Senior Jackie Coughlin and Cottle’s solos called for many yells of praise, and left most of the room standing by the end of the song. “It was amazing,” senior Allegrettos member Jonathan Kinney said of performing at the ICCA. “It was everything we thought it would be and more. I’ve never felt something like that ever.” “It was intimidating because it was the first big stage we’d ever been on, but it was exhilarating,” said junior and Allegrettos Copresident, Jenny Beers, along with junior Melody Rolph. Beers added that it was useful to see other groups perform and have the opportunity to learn from them. After a ten-minute intermission and a warm welcome from Cottle and the audience, the Williams College Gospel Choir took the stage. Cottle explained that after being invited to the Williams College Gospel Choir’s winter concert, the Allegrettos wanted to return the favor and invited them to the College. Though their numbers were significantly less than the

Photo by Dennise Carranza/Beacon Staff

Jasmine Garcia, freshman, and Shavon Brown, senior, share a powerful and emotional duet . Allegrettos, who boasted over 30 singers onstage, the Williams College Gospel Choir quickly had both the Allegrettos and the audience clapping and singing along to its own soulful gospel renditions. The Allegrettos completed their “Back to Basics” concert with a section of worship songs. They performed the Haiti tribute “Are You Listening,” “Because He

Lives,” which was a duet between Cottle and Shepard; and “Moving Forward,” featuring the Williams College Gospel Choir. The group took a brief break to present Cottle with flowers and a card in honor of it being his last time directing the Allegrettos for a gospel concert. Beers, along with junior Britney Gerber, sophomore Micky Oliver, sophomore Ben Balon, and senior Jorden Cohen

spoke about the different ways in which the graduating senior had pushed them and inspired them. The show ended with a powerful performance of “Genesis” with a solo by Tiniqua Patrick, which earned loud applause from the attendees and the Williams College Gospel Choir.

Review: sexy Robots at MoCA By Kaylie Warner A&E Writer

Photos by Kacie Clark/Beacon Staff

Howard Robot, dressed in lights, gave MoCA a unique show.

“My Robot Friend” lit up Mass MoCA Saturday night with a frenzy of lights, electronic beats, ‘robot love, and confusion. Unless people knew of Howard Robot and had followed his career, they probably left Mass MoCA this past Saturday confused. When entering club B-10, a bar on the left sat dolling out wine, beer, and the occasional gin and tonic. Tables were set up with flameless electronic candles glowing in their centers. Every table in the house had someone sitting at it and everyone was anxiously waiting to see their ‘robot friend’. The club was set up like a cabaret and the ambiance worked well until Robot took the stage. Before Robot came out, a Mass MoCA event organizer took the stage and told audience members how happy she was to have robots in the house. The show began with a short film from the 1950 World’s Fair about robots. The film showed a woman in her home getting her robot fixed and all of the things it can do. The film showed that all around us are robots such as toasters, ovens, cars, etc. The film’s message was that we all need to appreciate the robots around us that help us in our daily lives. There was a short pause after the film ended and various audience members shouted out in anticipation of the ‘robot friend’ that was about to take the stage.

Behind Robot the screen was bright and glowing, reading “My Robot Friend Loves You.” He opened the show with his song “The Cut” with his fingers lit up, flashing blue. As the performance went on, his robotic fingers grew longer. At the very beginning of this performance, a woman left with her child, who had her ears and eyes shut tightly. Clearly, this performance was not suitable for children. The lights were brilliant and visually stimulating but the message was lacking, as if something was missing. The performance felt like a joke where everyone else knew the punch line leaving the unaware hanging. After a few performances, the show took a turn sending the crowd into an uproar. Robot claimed to have a PhD in love and wanted to show the audience just how much he loved them. He donned a robotic penis between his legs that lit up. Out of his robotic genitals, tennis balls soared into the audience, followed by a loud pop; streamers flew out and covered the audience. This robotic sexual act was the most confusing part of the performance. Again, unless people knew Robot, and were aware of his performance style, as well as a part of his electronic scene, this probably left them a bit horrified. Robot ended the show by performing one of his pieces in the audience. He brought a camera in the audience, the screen showed him and various audience

members. He touched their heads in a sort of robotic frenzy, mimicking a malfunctioning. He walked out of the performance with no lights, only a monotonous deep tone was left behind. Junior Caleb Hiliadis remembered when Robot came out with his first album. “I have been waiting six years for that!” he said. Kaylie Sweet had never heard of Robot before and was surprised by the performance. “It was amazing,” she began. “I think I’m dead.” Two local friends, Danielle Ralys, and Rachel Heisler, always try to see shows at Mass MoCA. They both agreed the show was interesting and bizarre. “It was a lot to take in but even if you didn’t understand what was going on you still couldn’t help but laugh or smile at the performance,” Ralys said. The performance presented a flashy brilliance of light, electronic sounds, and unique usage of props that could not keep some people in club B-10 still. However, Robot himself lacked personality as a human and was simply, a robot. This unclear message left many distraught and confused. Senior Katie Russell was more confused than others about the performance. “I went in open minded and at first it was interesting, but now I am kind of frightened. I do not know what to think of it all,” she said.

Sports

Thursday, February 28, 2013

Beacon.mcla.edu

Maurice: Rookie of the Year By Ariana Tourangeau Sports Editor

Sit-out Brady By Ariana Tourangeau Sports Editor

The other day I was scrolling through sports websites, reading up on “big news” in sports when I came across some news on Tom Brady. Like I’ve said previously, I am a Green Bay Packers fan and even though I’m from New England, I cannot stand the Patriots, especially Tom Brady. You can consider me a member of the “I think Tom Brady is overrated” club. On that note, I read an article that says he signed with the patriots for another three years. Hooray for all you patriot’s fans, and a big yawn for me. Don’t get me wrong, Tom Brady is a very talented football player, but for some reason I’m not a fan. An article on CBS Sports written by Will Brinson says, “Brady signed a three-year, $27 million extension with the Patriots that will carry him through the 2017 season.” According to Peter King of Sports Illustrated, “Brady will receive a $3 million signing bonus immediately, and he will receive $7 million in 2015, $8 million in 2016 and $9 million in 2017.” The fact that he is insanely rich and will continue to be rich just makes me dislike him even more. Brady might have signed for three more years, but he chose to reduce his cap numbers for the next five years. This will benefit the team as they seek to keep their free agents according to CBS Sports. To those that are unfamiliar, a salary cap in football means it is an agreement that places a limit of money a team can spend on player salaries. Normally quarterbacks carry the largest cap numbers, but according to the National Football Post, a handful of players “lowered their cap numbers in contract restructurings to create cap room for their respective teams.” Looks like Brady doesn’t just have him in mind, he’s considering the rest of the team. CBS Sports said, “Brady was scheduled to count $43.6 million against the cap in 2013 and 2014 and now will count just $28.6 million against the Patriots cap.” I guess Brady isn’t that bad after all. His cap reduction will give the Patriots space to resign their free agents and to try and bring in new talent. This is quite that sacrifice for Brady, but it is all so his team will come out on top in the long run and I guess if it were my teams quarterback, I’d be proud.

After a long and vigorous season, Paul Maurice, freshman guard for the trailblazers, was named 2012-13 MASCAC Rookie of the year. Since the beginning of the season, rookie of the year has been a goal that Maurice had set for himself, which he accomplished with a little extra push from his coaches and teammates. “At practice my teammates would say, ‘you need to win rookie of the year’ , and push me to work harder because they knew it was a lifetime achievement for me,” Maurice said. Not only did Maurice’s teammates and coach help push him to achieve this goal, but a Worcester state competitor made him want it that much more. Worcester States Freshman Guard, Alex Lopez, was a top pick for rookie of the year as well as Maurice. “He was doing better than me and I felt like I wasn’t going to get it,” Maurice said. The constant support and push from the team helped Maurice to get his goal. The team’s record was a push

Category Games Games started Minutes Min. per game FG FG Pct 3PT 3PT Pct FT

in the right direction for Paul and helped him to get closer to his goal when he thought it wasn’t attainable anymore. “When our record started to be 9-3 and we were winning more it helped me build my confidence,” Maurice said. After a boost of confidence from the wins, everything started getting better for Maurice. Players started pushing him during practices, reminding him of his goal, and helping him to work harder because they knew how badly he wanted it. “If I wasn’t working hard enough my coach would say slick comments to me like, ‘I don’t think you’re going to get it’ , but he was only pushing me to work harder,” Maurice said. As the season progressed and the Trailblazers won more games, Maurice worked harder to earn the recognition. According to the Massachusetts State Collegiate Athletic Conference Men’s Basketball All-Conference Team, Maurice averaged 9.3 points, 3.7 rebounds, and two steals per game giving him the honor of Rookie of the year for his first season of College basketball with the Trailblazers.

Overall Config 27 12 17 11 651 351 24.1 29.2 80-228 42-117 35.1 35.9 46-143 24-74 32.2 32.4 37-35 27-36

Photo by Dennise Carranza/Beacon Staff

Freshman guard Paul Maruice had strong support from his teammates and coach all season.

Stats

Category FT Pct Off rebounds Def rebounds Total rebounds Rebounds per game Personal fouls Disqualifications Assists

Overall 69.8 33 66 99 3.7 63 2 32

Config 75.0 21 44 65 5.4 23 1 19