Volume 85
T hu r s day , S e pte m b er 21, 2017
Greylock Hike 2017 LoCal:
Issue 1
Food Company Refines its Formula
photo by Ron Leja
Veterans War Memorial has stood on the top of Mount Greylock since 1933. The site was closed to visitors since 2013 but has been restored and presents climbers and visitors with a beautiful view. See story behind photo on page 3.
Trump’s DACA Rescission Met with Resistance from College Administration BY HANNAH SNELL STAFF WRITER On Sept. 6, President Birge announced in an email to the MCLA community that he opposes the federal order made by President Donald Trump to recede the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program and will not share any student information unless required by a court order. Birge’s statement came a day after Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the rescission of the DACA program on behalf of the Trump administration. The program offers two-year status to undocumented immigrants (under the age of 30 as of 2012) and allows those who qualify to have their deportations delayed and to obtain a temporary work permit, according to Define American. “The Commonwealth of Massachusetts and our own state university system have already stated their intention to fight the repeal of this federal order, and I join them in their indignation,” Birge wrote in his email. “Please know that the MCLA community stands with you now, and will continue to support you no matter what actions are taken regarding the DACA policy benefits. I also want to reiterate that MCLA will not share ANY student or employee information with government agencies unless we are required to via a court order.” MCLA is now one of over 600 private and public colleges nationwide to have signed the Ponoma College statement, joining UMASS Amherst, UMASS Lowell and the rest of the Massachusetts state university system.
“To our country’s leaders we say that DACA should be upheld, continued, and expanded. We are prepared to meet with you to present our case. This is both a moral imperative and a national necessity,” the Ponoma College statement reads. Last spring, Birge began working on legislation with the Council of Presidents on creating legislation to allow Massachusetts state universities to continue offering in-state tuition to DACA students. “We’ve submitted that legislation and we re-submitted very similar legislation just recently to the statehouse and are getting sponsors for that now,” Birge said. “Collectively and individually, we oppose the rescission of the executive order and in fact we are working to try and have the state establish a law regardless of what executive order might happen.” However, because the legislation is in the revision process, Birge reported more information is to come. “I think it’s fair to say that students across the country are concerned about what the implications are in the six months when DACA’s rescinded, unless congress passes a law,” Vice President of Student Affairs Catherine Holbrook said. “I worked for 25 years in Massachusetts and I have worked with a lot of these students and they are passionate about their education, they are passionate about becoming citizens and following the requirements to become citizens.” While MCLA has no reports of DACA students, Birge and Holbrook noted that there
BY MITCH CHAPMAN FEATURES EDITOR For LoCal, a startup business that aims to sell healthy snacks to the community, their selection as the winner of the first Innovation & Entrepreneurship Challenge last spring was not the light at the end of the tunnel they had hoped. What started out as a team of students led by LoCal creator MJ Shannon, Avery Woodbury, A.J. Cote and a few others is now being run solely by Shannon. Woodbury, Cote and Shannon dissolved their professional ties halfway through their internships that the prize had provided. In the aftermath, tensions are still high between Shannon, Cote and Woodbury. “Over the course of the summer, it became apparent
we had different visions and different opinions on what LoCal is and what LoCal should be,” Shannon said. “And with that in mind, we decided to part ways professionally, and I’ve been continuing to pursue the original business plan, as it was presented the night we won.” According to Shannon, Woodbury and Cote tried to change the original business plan they submitted, which is where a lot of their creative differences clashed. “I think they had more of an idea to open their own food business, Be Great, and run that through LoCal, but it wasn’t really working,” she said. Woodbury and Cote cited trouble accessing the funds as the cause of the initial
LoCal, page 3
Photo from LoCal
Shannon shows off LoCal’s offerings at the MCLA Athletic Complex.
DACA, page 11
Happy 50th to the North Adams State College Class of 1967! Happy Alumni Weekend!
CAMPUSNEWS
2
SGA under new President begins development of two new positions; hints at online voting
BY JOSEPH CAREW EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Giffen promised that members of the SGA were working with clubs and students on campus to better understand their interest in the project. Parliamentarian Vitali informed SGA that progress had been made on the online voting capabilities for the SGA election but chose to keep specifics vague. The new Diversity Task Force will focus on increasing diversity and inclusion in everything. Reviewing policy, holding town hall dialogues, as well as increasing the amount of opportunities students and faculty and the administration have to converse openly about their needs and wants are on the agenda for this semester. The idea of having more training for students and having faculty report to specific trainings were both mentioned by President Giffen. The Student Trustee announced that the College’s 2018-22 Strategic Plan had been addressed at the previous Board of Trustees meeting. They noted a slight decrease in enrollment this year and attributed it to the recent decision in New York State to make state schools tuition-free. An increase to student fees of roughly $135 was also noted. Among topics discussed for the open forum portion of the meeting was the decrease in Wifi reliability reported by
some students on campus. President Giffen spoke with Ian Bergeron about the issue and he explained that an update in August had worked well until the deluge of devices brought to light a problem. Giffen said that the IT staff are currently working on solving the issue but gave no timetable. After last year’s crazy election in which two of the three tickets had to withdraw the Student Government Association (SGA) began its first year under President Samantha Giffen. Meeting on the 11th: The rust of the seasoned government officials and the rookie’s unpracticed procedure hindered the beginning of the meeting but soon the SGA started to get into the year’s agenda. President Giffen began the meeting acknowledging the recent devastation in the states of Texas and Florida brought on by Hurricanes, stressing that support should be lent out for MCLA students in the path. Giffen also chose to reflect on the sixteenth anniversary of the September 11th attacks on the United States. Amanda Schuler was called upon to address the meeting to give updates on the SGA office and the processes of the SGA. The option of having online voting for student government positions was mentioned and Parliamen-
MCLA’s Erin D’Entremont and Conner Noblit were in Disney World STAFF WRITER at Orlando, Florida when Hurricane Irma has Irma hit. Holbrook reports come and gone, and now the both students will remain people of Florida and the down there for the duration Caribbean islands are begin- of their internships. “I think Disney was ning to make their way back closed for two days,” Holto normal. For some MCLA brook said. “From what I students it means getting understand the interns were back home to friends and all brought in to stay at the family. But for others, it hotels so they could help means shifting through the entertain the guests and in wreckage left by the hurrimany respects made them cane’s brutality. “They’re still in an area feel safe. That’s great for where, you know, power them. They’re back to norand telephone lines are mal, so to speak.” The College sent out an still an issue,” said Cathofficial email on Thursday, erine Holbrook, vice presiSept. 7 that encouraged peodent of Student Affairs. ple with affected families Any student supposed to to contact Student Affairs have spent this semester and the President’s Office. abroad with the University One such person is Profesof the Virgin Islands will now be returning to their sor Joseph Ebiware of the families before making any English/Communications further decisions on their department, whose wife and two children were in Naples, educations. “To say that their semes- Florida when the Hurricane ter abroad has been disrupt- hit. “It’s excruciatingly ed would be an understatefrightening,” said Ebiware. ment,” Holbrook said. “The “The suspense, knowing university is likely not going that you have a family who to open for the semester.” are there is very, very susHolbrook was one of many penseful. It wasn’t about if, whose job was to monitor but when it will hit.” and remain in constant conA Clinical Lab Scientist, tact with students abroad his wife had to stay behind and keep their families upin Naples. She was able to dated on any changes. secure space for their chil-
dren to stay there and wait out the Hurricane with her. “At first, my son was reluctant,” said Ebiware. “He said he wanted to stay in the house because he believed that somehow it was just media hype. That the media hyped it. He didn’t believe that it was serious. He thought that since the house was secured that it was fine.” Ebiware confirms that his family is safe now that the Hurricane has passed. “She’s there,” he said. “And my intent is, when I do retire, is that we want to settle. So she’s already down there and two of our children have jobs working in Naples. She’s been there three years now.” English/Communications department, whose wife and two children were in Naples, Florida when the Hurricane hit. “It’s excruciatingly frightening,” said Ebiware. “The suspense, knowing that you have a family who are there is very, very suspenseful. It wasn’t about if, but when it will hit.” A Clinical Lab Scientist, his wife had to stay behind in Naples. She was able to secure space for their children to stay there and wait out the Hurricane with her. “At first, my son was reluctant,” said Ebiware. “He
Meeting on the 18th: President Samantha Giffen invited Residential Programs and Services (RPS) to update the SGA on the new members of the department and the updates that were instituted in the residence areas over the summer. All Berkshire Towers bathrooms were updated along with the fire alarm system in the building. Now the entire College runs on the same fire alarm system in order to make maintenance more manageable. Updates and refinishing have been instituted in the Townhouses, particularly throughout E block which will see the cushioning be redone throughout the semester. Members of the college thought it was time to place clocks in meeting rooms in residence halls and RPS followed through including adding a clock to the wall in Murdock 218 (where SGA meetings are held). President Giffen announced that the SGA was developing two new positions for students to hold. The Multicultural and the LGBTQA+ seat are currently being developed to ensure that all students from all communities are represented in Student Government. Details for the roles of these new positions are still being drawn up and President
tarian Jake Vitali stressed the project was in its early stages and gave no guarantees for its use in the upcoming SGA election. Among other topics brought to the attention of the government was Fresh Check Day. Scheduled for yesterday, the 27th, this event was set up in a similar situation as the Dear World event of last semester in which students and faculty were asked to share their stories with the world. Fresh Check day has a more mental health and suicide prevention layer to it. The Annual Sam Gomez Run was announced for Oct. 15th, 2017. This year is set to be the 40th anniversary of the event and will be run by Executive Vice President Victoria Muñoz. Two motions were made to approve SGA financial support for two events: The College Republican’s Barbeque (scheduled for Sept. 21st) and the FreshCheck event. Both were approved totally $600; $100 for the former and $500 for the latter. Parliamentarian Vitali informed the assembled members of the SGA that the Constitution for the club had been reviewed over the summer by President Giffen and himself, along with the consultation of other members of SGA and some changes had been made to improve
the inclusivity of the club as well as streamline some of its processes. The SGA elections are approaching and it was stressed that papers for nomination are due today, the 21st of September. A preliminary election will be held next Thursday if necessary while the Final election will occur October third and fourth. New to this year’s SGA namecards were the respective person’s preferred pronouns. The open forum part of the meeting saw MASSPIRG’s new Campaign Coordinator introduce her organizations plans for this semester and some of the campaign’s planned. Pool updates were mentioned as well. The plan revolves around draining the pool and removing the relevant equipment this semester and focusing on and turning the room into the fitness center planned throughout the winter and spring.
MCLA COMMUNITY: IRMA AFTERMATH
BY COREY MITCHELL LABRIE
IN
IL
KY
MO 2 pm TN Wednesday 2 pm Tuesday
MS
WV
Alabama
Georgia
VA
Hurricane Irma path
North Carolina South Carolina
Path probability, Sept. 8-13
2 pm Monday
LA
Atlantic Ocean
Florida 200 km 200 miles
Source: NOAA Graphic: Staff, TNS
2 am Sunday
2 pm Sunday 2 pm Saturday
Cuba
5 pm Friday
Turks and Caicos
Caribbean Sea Graph from MCT Campus
said he wanted to stay in the house because he believed that somehow it was just media hype. That the media hyped it. He didn’t believe that it was serious. He thought that since the house was secured that it was fine.” Ebiware confirms that his family is safe now that the Hurricane has passed.
“She’s there,” he said. “And my intent is, when I do retire, is that we want to settle. So she’s already down there and two of our children have jobs working in Naples. She’s been there three years now.”
CAMPUSNEWS
3
22nd Annual Greylock Hike reaches new heights despite unusually low attendance BY JOSEPH CAREW EDITOR-IN-CHIEF The wind picked up and the man pulled the strings attached to his sail. In one fluid motion, he turned to face the drop off and began to jog. Step, step, step, nothing. The wind pushed him up and he was free. This was the scene on which the 22nd annual Mount Greylock Hike ended. Once again, the Cheshire Harbor Trail proved to be a challenging but worthwhile choice for the student centered activity. Measuring a solid 3.3 miles, students and faculty set a comfortable pace and faced a rocky, but well-marked trail. A highlight every year, a bridge slightly more than halfway up provides the calming sounds of a small stream and a vista through the omnipresent wilderness. But hikers were shocked to find something out of the ordinary when they arrived at the
peak. Close to two dozen para-gliders had spread their equipment out on the southeast facing field. As this year’s group finished its trek, they bore witness to at least ten people glide off the face of the mountain and rise rapidly into the sky. The men were dressed in suits that looked like a mix between a kayak and a sleeping bag but seemed to take to the sky like they belonged there. With a crew consisting of roughly 15 hikers, MCLA’s over two decade old tradition began anew. This year’s group was much smaller than previous year’s attendance. In previous years several vehicles were employed by the College in order to ship participating students over. As part of first days it was made out to be a strongly encouraged activity for all new students (transfer as well as exchange stu-
Photo by Joseph Carew
Greylock Mountain is a popular spot for paragliding. Students were greeted with the sight of numerous people gliding off the edge of the mountain.
LoCal, from page 1
disagreement between them and Shannon. “We were supposed to have the funds dispensed in May so that we could attend and sell at Mass Moca summer events,” Cote said. “We asked nicely every week for MCLA to send out our already-prepared purchase orders so we could start, but instead of funds we got one bureaucratic excuse after another. MJ and Avery naturally got frustrated, because as part of our contract they had to stay in an office 40 hours a week for ten weeks, and, given that our funds had been denied to us, there was nothing more any of us could do. So instead of remedying the problem with funds they [the school] accused us of infighting and said Avery and MJ must submit new proposals and go through an intensive 2-week business crash course, unpaid, in addition to 10 weeks of
nothingness we were forced through without one dollar of the 10k prize money being accessible.” Cote and Woodbury were supposed to serve as LoCal’s food suppliers. According to Project Manager Zack Feury, no contracts were ever signed. In fact, the document Cote referenced in fact was a guidebook made for the contest the college was not legally bound to follow. That being said, Shannon did confirm some difficulty securing funds. “There was a little bit of difficulty accessing the funds early June because of the turnover in the fiscal year, but we still were allowed to use the money for product testing, to complete our serve-safe course,” she said. “But with any business, you have to take it in phases. So LoCal is being funded on a phases-by-phase basis. I’m not sure how clear the understanding of how
Photo by Joseph Carew
Students gathered around the carving of the local mountain range on the top of Greylock after a successful hike. Students and faculty set their own pace and enjoyed a beautiful vista this past Sunday. dents were invited). Roughly 250 dedicated to those members of Mascollege students began their hike in sachusetts who passed away in the September of 2010, according to the First World War, the Tower is now Berkshire Eagle. open for the first time since 2013. This year’s group began its ascent Just as the monument has up Massachusetts’ tallest moun- changed, each year’s hike changes as tain around 11 a.m. Sunday with well. Whether through rain or sun, the first group reaching the top in there seems to be a common theme, about an hour and sixteen minutes. at least in the eyes of Director Craig. “I personally enjoy hiking,” Fresh“I think students and the faculty man Connor Sampson said when and staff who hike get the sense of asked about what brought him to the accomplishment. No matter how mountain. “I have a lot of memories many times you hike you are still doing it and so I thought, why not learning something about yourself make some more.” through the process,” Craig said. Sampson was among the first to “One year it could be cold and finish the hike and kept pace with windy and you have to battle that, Director of Student Activities Jenn the next year you could mentally Craig for nearly the entire trip. have something on your mind and “I went last year and enjoyed it,” the hike could be more of a struggle. Sophomore Elizabeth King said. “It’s Using the mountain as a metaphor always good fun.” is a great way to look back and say New to this year’s hike is the avail- if I can climb that I can ‘climb’ anyability of the Veterans War Memori- thing!” al Tower at the summit of Mt. Greylock. Built in the early 1930s and
slow, and careful and how researched you have to be to start a business. I think they wanted to jump right into the fun stuff right away, but it’s just not the reality of starting a business.” After the split, Woodbury and Cote alleged that Shannon had failed to show up to her internship and had routinely left early, citing the contest guidebook for grounds to disqualify her. They even contacted the runner-up team, composed of Joseph Berardis, Peter Chase and Daniel Heinen, in hopes that they would pressure Feury and the college to disqualify Shannon. However, as Feury stated, there was no binding contract, and the funded internship was meant only to be a resource to help develop the business, and was not required to access the contest funds. Shannon denied the allegations of leaving early, stating that while not every-
thing in a food business can be done in an office, and that she worked on the business for more than 40 hours a week. She said that after the split she did stop attending internship hours at Lever, a local business in North Adams, and instead finished it at MCLA’s Design Lab. “The internship at Lever was not a contractual obligation and working at Lever was not a written stipulation for receiving access to the funding,” Feury said. Lever Program Coordinator Sarah Wu, who oversaw the internships, refused to comment on the matter. Lever itself has not responded to The Beacon’s inquiries for comment. Woodbury also participated in an internship at Lever, but he chose to resign after he cut ties with Shannon. According to Feury, Woodbury and Shannon were given the opportunity to reapply for the funding, and Shannon’s proposal was
selected over Woodbury’s. LoCal is currently in phase one of two of its funding, focusing its effort on market tests that will determine the funding of phase two, which Shannon says may be a LoCal food cart. Part of this involves bringing LoCal’s food to select local events to see where their food is popular and who it’s popular with. According to Shannon, Woodbury and Cote’s company Be Great primarily served as the food supplier for LoCal. Shannon has been contacting other local vendors and growers to become LoCal’s suppliers. “It was unfortunate that we dissolved our partnership with Be Great, but it was in no way detrimental to the business,” she said. “With any business, things are going to go wrong, and I think it’s how you handle it, and the support that you’re given. It’s really been a fun ride.”
CAMPUSNEWS
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The Balance of Order and Liberty: Constitution Day speaker says no to Censorship BY JOSEPH CAREW EDITOR-IN-CHIEF The room was warm and full, filled with students and faculty and a surprising amount of copies of the United States Constitution. Professor Cupery gave the introduction and Judge Fredric D. Rutberg began the MCLA’s annual Constitution Day speak. For the 230th anniversary of the signing of the Constitution, Rutberg tackled the complexities of the document, the struggle upholding the difficult demands it makes, and gave recent tests to its strength. “Those two words, order and liberty, set a tension and set a conundrum for all democracies, if not for all governments,” Rutberg said. “Individually we celebrate liberty but civilization requires order. Order without liberty is tyranny, liberty without order is anarchy.” Rutberg stressed that finding the balance between the two was what the founders of the nation sought to accomplish through three branches of government. But that balance can be difficult
especially during periods of war and unrest. “The calculus of how much liberty we have to surrender to achieve a certain amount of order that’s conducive to a healthy and productive life is a difficult one to work out,” Rutberg said. “Forces constantly shift and one’s viPhoto by Samantha Giffen sion of how Judge Fredric D. Rutberg is the current President of New England Newspapers, much order is Inc and spoke on the temptation to censor speech. necessary can Rutberg dove right into ty to spread misinformation. often offend another’s minithe recent events held in With a President who often mum of how much liberty it Charlottesville as well as criticizes news outlets actakes to be actually be free.” Boston and how they per- companied by the ability of “It may be overly simplistain to the first amendment. individuals to pass on false tic but I view the tension beHe explained that, in Boston stories as true, Rutberg leans tween Liberty and Order as a police putting walls around toward public wariness over zero sum game.” the assembly of people may direct censorship. By this he means that infringe on the host’s right “The cure is worse than when liberty is expanded to peaceably assemble, the the disease,” Rutberg said there is a similar amount dejournalist’s right to cover the in reference to employing crease in the amount of Orevent, as well as the countercensorship against speech. der in society and vice versa. protesters right to assemble. “Censorship is not the anAnd that not all parts of soThese modern-day Conswer.” ciety are affected equally in stitution worries also reRutberg specifically adthese changes. volve around the rapid abili- dressed an acceptance of
censorship at the university level. He noted that there have been inroads with censorship from both sides of the political spectrum and that the harder students come down on controversial speakers the worse the situation gets for the first amendment. The tyranny of the majority was another concern the founding father’s among the worries of this country’s founding father’s according to Rupert. In reference to the majority ruling: “Sometimes [the majority] is wrong, sometimes it’s very wrong.” And so having the majority hold sway in the government was allowed but tempered with respect to the minorities rights. “Our Constitution with its attended Bill of Rights has made the United States as free a nation as there is in the industrial world,” Rutberg said. “When I say this, don’t lose sight of the really great affronts to liberty and freedom that have occurred over our history and still occur.”
Constitution, page 11
MCLA approved for two new Biology majors BY HANNAH SNELL STAFF WRITER At the end of June, the MCLA biology department was approved for two new majors, including Health Sciences and Community Health Education. According to a press release by the College, “MCLA is now the first public institution in the Commonwealth to offer this type of major in Health Sciences.” “Having the biology department be one size fits all for such a large spectrum of professions, a lot of the health fields did not need the same set of coursework that was needed for a fundamental biology degree. So that allowed us to also make the concentrations more streamlined, even the ones we had before under biology, those that moved over to health sciences now require fewer credits than they did before,” Dr. Anne Goodwin, chair of the MCLA biology department said. The new health sciences will offer four concentrations, in addition to the general major, in pre-physician assistant, pre-physical therapy, preoccupational therapy and medical technology. According Goodwin, there are currently about 20 students enrolled in the Health Sciences major, including both incoming students and declared biology majors switching to health sciences. “It’s hard to promote a program when it gets approval at the end of June, so we are surprised that we already have 20 students in the Health Sciences,” Dean of Academic Affairs
Monica Joslin said. Sophomore Audrey Burch is one of the 20 students who switched at the beginning of this semester to a health sciences major after originally being a biology major with a concentration in medical technology. “I feel like the health sciences major has a little bit of everything, but it doesn’t load you down with a lot of one particular subject which I like,” Burch said. “It allows you to get a taste of what you like and gives you some leeway to work with what you prefer.” According to Goodwin, while there are no declared Community Health Education majors yet, there are three students currently enrolled in the new course, Introduction to Community Health Education. “In terms of prospective students, a huge strength is that we already have a track record of doing this and we’re just doing it better. . .we have a mentoring network already set-up for those concentrations. We already have a very strong program in Health Sciences,” Goodwin said. With the two new programs comes a total of six new courses, with five new courses in community health education and
one new course in health sciences. The new courses offered in the community health education program include Intro to Community Health Education, Health Promotion and Planning, Epidemiology, Research Methods in Epidemiology and a practicum or an internship in Community Health Education.
The new course that was created for the health sciences major is Human Growth and Development. This course is replacing a two-course sequence in Developmental Psychology in the psychology department and Aging Across the Lifespan in the sociology department.
FEATURES
5
LoCal
A One-Woman Show
BY MEGHAN COOK FEATURES WRITER
As sun filters through the trees above the mass of tents and tables of the Farmers’ Market in downtown North Adams, a lime-green tent embossed with orange letters reading “LoCal” stands out from the rest. “We’ve already almost sold out of watermelon pizzas,” MJ Shannon says with a smile. LoCal is a business promoting healthy fast food options that budded from an idea in a contest to a blossoming business, and it’s all thanks to Shannon’s dream. “This has been an idea that I’ve had since I was 10 years old,” says Shannon, owner of LoCal. “I came up with the name then too.” The idea of healthy food options that are as easy to get as a McDonald’s Big Mac has been a concept throughout Shannon’s life. Starting when she was just a kid, throughout her school career, LoCal has been her brainchild, a way to give people the choice to get good for you food at a good for your wallet price. When Shannon spent some time nannying for a boy and found herself taking him to Dunkin Donuts or Panera Bread after the YMCA. “Panera had good options, but was expensive, and I felt bad giving him so many donuts, there just had to be more healthy alternatives,” she explains. Thus the concept of LoCal was put into motion once she won the contest and the $10,000 to start up her company. Over seven months she drew up plans, presentations and finally after
Photo from LoCal
LoCal owner and creator MJ Shannon bites into a slice of watermelon pizza. months of hard work was vic- logos out and setting the table torious. However, she does not and tent up, Shannon has done take any of this lightly. everything herself. While work“MJ never wishes for any- ing two other jobs and balancthing, she works for it. I’ve ing graduate school, she has never seen a harder worker, I’m had her work cut out for her. convinced that this business “It’s like juggling fire,” she will be a success,” says Tracy says with a smile. Shannon, mother and supportA silver cooler with the orange er of MJ. logo splashed across the front From food prep the morn- sits under the tent, filled to the ing before an event to clipping brim with yogurt parfaits, ce-
real bars, pita sandwiches, and other nutritious snacks. Each snacks has the LoCal emblem attached to its container, which for every logo Shannon makes and cuts out herself. “I make them all myself and a lot of the time they just get thrown out later. Sometimes, the logos smudge from the ice in the cooler and all that hard work is for nothing,” she explains with a laugh. The plan is to eventually have a food truck to go around Berkshire County selling nutritious and delicious food, giving on the go food an even more on the go feel. Shannon explains that once the business gets bigger to purchase food from more local farms. For now with the demand for it still being small she buys only organic food from Big Y in small quantities. “Quantity is the hardest thing, you never know what the most popular item will be that day. It was yogurt parfaits last week, today is watermelon pizzas,” she says. A local business always needs the support of other local small businesses and Leanne Hamilton, owner of The SereniTea Cafe intends to give it. “MJ and I [were] discussing the idea of come wintertime to have some LoCal products being sold at the cafe,” she says. Shannon says she is excited to see where LoCal will go, and is confident in its ability to meet the demand for healthy food on the go. “When I was pitching my idea originally I told them that I like McDonald’s and Taco Bell as much as the next girl, but let’s just give people more options.”
Meet the best professor in the Berkshires BY MITCHELL CHAPMAN FEATURES EDITOR For the best professor in the Berkshires, look no further than the halls of Bowman. For Fine and Performing Arts Professor Lisa Donovan, who was voted best professor in The Berkshire Eagle’s annual Best of The Berkshires reader poll, the honor was both humbling and surprising. “It’s pretty amazing,” she said. “I was totally taken aback and really excited about it. It’s wonderful to be honored like that.” And the runner up in that poll was an MCLA professor as well; Assistant Arts Management Professor Dianne Scott. For Donovan, she believed that the honor came in part of the name recognition and familiarity her work across the county has brought. “I have been doing a lot of work across the Berkshire region,” she said. “A lot of my research has been with arts education, and so I have been leading some convenings to bring together arts organizations who are doing work in schools, doing work out of schools with creative youth developments, I’ve been working with arts specialists in schools, and [I was] part of a team to create a blueprint for arts education in Berkshire County.”
FPA professor Dr. Lisa Donovan was recently voted Best in the Berkshires as the best professor the county has to offer. Her runner-up was arts management professor Dianne Scott. Photo by Mitchell Chapman — Features Editor
Donovan is a theater artists, educator, administrator, and researcher. While she has been a professor at MCLA for five years, she’s lived in the Berkshires for over 30 years. Before coming to MCLA, she was the Director of the Creative Arts in Learning Division at Lesley University. “Coming to MCLA, it’s a gem,” she said. “I’m completely happy here. It’s been a real opportunity to live and work in my own community. The range of arts and opportunities here in Berkshire County
are really unparalleled in a region like this. I love the fact that I get to know every single one of my students. I love the fact that I can create real-world opportunities in every single one of my classes and that people are up from that, both from the student perspective and from a regional perspective.” Over her many years, Donovan has accrued experiences with a wide range of local and regional arts organizations, including Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival, the Berkshire Opera Company, Barrington Stage Company, University of Massachusetts Department of Theater, as well as Boston University’s Theater, Visual Arts, and Tanglewood Institutes — all of which has helped her in her role as a professor and a member of the local arts community. “Every year, I feel like I get a deeper feel for the incredible possibilities that are here,” she said. “For students, for faculty, for regional organizations. I love
teaching in the Fine and Performing Arts department. I feel like we are attracting just incredible students. The work that they’re doing is remarkable. It’s impressive on so many levels.” Recently, through an ArtPlace America grant proposal, Donovan’s Community Engagement and the Arts Class worked on four real-world projects, including one for the Housatonic Valley Association. In fact, some of the student ideas through the class were incorporated in the grant proposal. “To have that type of opportunity as an undergrad is phenomenal,” she said. Donovan got into teaching through acting, as she discovered what drew her to acting was what she learned about herself. Through this, she learned what she really wanted to do was teach through the arts. “My favorite part of teaching is my students,” she said. “We are attracting students who have huge potential, who are willing to take risks. They have a deep sense of discipline and focus. I think we have an incredibly strong program. What I love best is watching students work on real-world projects and watch how far they push everyone’s thinking, myself included.”
Arts & Entertainment
6
“We the People” Theme For this semester’s FPA Plays By Brianna Lamb A&E Writer
MCLA’s FPA Theatre department will be performing “Passing Strange” directed by Jeremy Winchester and “Tartuffe”, directed by Laura Standley, this fall semester, with the two shows uniting under the theme of “We the People”. This season’s theme was chosen by a committee of faculty and students, searching for a unifying Passing Strange and Tartuffe will be performed this semester. based on Stewart, tells his ciety right now.” idea that would benefit the particular,” she said. Sasso describes “Passing story, while the audience “Tartuffe” is a classical people and the school, under the current political climate. Strange” as a musical, focus- witnesses a younger version play with a heavy focus on Senior and FPA Theatre ma- ing on the narrator’s life, with of himself. He travels to Los comedy. Sasso explains that jor Alex Sasso explained the the audience following his Angeles, Amsterdam, and satire plays a large part, importance of this theme and journey of self-discovery as Berlin, to discover bohemi- drawing similarities to curan lifestyles, and the road to rent government and politithe necessity of speaking up he travels outside America. The story is an autobiogra- find the real him. cal figures. as artists. “I’m really excited for us “Tartuffe” was written by “You have to say some- phy of Mark Stewart, the muthing. You can’t be silent sician and playwright behind to do a musical,” Sasso said. Moliere and first performed when things like this are hap- the production. This is the “Passing Strange, as well as in 1664. It tells the story of the rest of the FPA season a mother visiting her family, pening. That had a huge im- first play he’s written. The narrators character, also has a lot to say about so- only to fall under the influpact on ‘Passing Strange’ in
This Is: Izzy Heltai By Nora Hones A&E Writer Izzy Heltai, a student at MCLA, just played his second year at the FreshGrass music festival, which took place Friday through Sunday at Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA), but it took a lot of time and determination for him to get there. “I’ve been playing since I was about 12, and never learned any theory. I just wanted to play songs,” Heltai wrote via text interview. Heltai plays both guitar and piano, and got into the folk revival movement of the ‘60s. Heltai grew up listening to musicians like Bob Dylan, Simon and Garfunkel, Joni Mitchell and James Taylor. Since he was very young, he was innately drawn to the storytelling and clever lyricists of folk music, which shows in his own music. Over the summer, Heltai went on tour westward towards Chicago, then did a stretch
along the midwest, and finally went down south as far as Tennessee before he came back up again. His favorite spots were Richmond, Virginia, a venue called Club Passim in Boston and a festival called Falcon Ridge in Upstate New York. “It’s an incredibly cool music hub that not many people would think of,” Heltai wrote about his experience
in Richmond. He continued, saying that in Boston he, “completely packed the room, and it was full of so many important people in my life, so it was really cool.” But like anything, being a musician has its ups and downs. Heltai admits that he’s played a lot of bad shows, like most musicians have, and sometimes that gets to him. But when
he feels down about himself, what keeps him going is looking back, even just over the last year, and seeing how far he’s come. Because, in the end, the good shows really make it all worthwhile. “Having that type of connection with people, through music, is truly unbeatable,” Heltai wrote.
ence of Tartuffe, a fraud pretending to be pious. Tartuffe always seems to find a way to slip out of any compromising situation. The play was initially controversial and could only be performed privately. Today, the play has had multiple revivals, with just as many alterations to setting and dialogue, while keeping the roots of the play intact. “It’s going to be really funny, but there is a lot in it that is very real and kind of scary based on what the country is going through right now,” Sasso said. “Passing Strange” will run the weekends of October 13 and 20, with “Tartuffe” being performed the first two weekends of December.
Upcoming Events: Thursday, Sept. 21 BBQ with Public Safety 3-5 pm at the Academic Quad Shakespeare’s Histories: Ten Epic Plays at a Breakneck Pace! 7pm in Murdock 218 Thursday, Sept. 28: DownStreet Art Thursday: celebrate our 10th season 5-8pm Main Street, North Adams Freedom from Fear/The Yellow Bowl Project - Opening Reception 5-8pm Gallery 51, 51 Main Street The Suitcase Junket performing at Fresh Grass. Photo by Zach Benjamin. For more photos, visit
theonlinebeacon. com. Izzy Heltai performs at Fresh Grass on Sun. Sept. 17. Photo by Julian Parker Burns
Arts & Entertainment
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The Gray Comma Flies Downtown By Emma Monahan A&E Editor The Gray Comma butterfly is no longer common in Western Massachusetts, but recently has been seen in the Berkshires. Here in North Adams, the Gray Comma will be making its way the whole school year, thanks to Professor Zach Finch. This article isn’t about butterflies though, it’s about Finch and Cynthia Quinones’, is a North Adams native, new project, entitled The Gray Comma, a literary reading and open mic series that will be taking place the second Saturday of every month now until April. Quinones got the name from going to a butterfly conservatory in Greenfield, Mass. She was so interested in the insect that when trying to come up with a name for the open mic sessions was becoming difficult, her research was what helped her figure it out. “Butterflies have incredible names,” she said, “but we had very little time to come up with a name because we were writing a grant. I was just googling, and came across the Gray Comma and thought, ‘That is amazing!’” Taking place at the Design Lab, located on 49 Main Street, Finch says it was chosen so then students can go and experience downtown North Adams. In the past, many readings have taken place there, so the decision to have it there was simple. “We both realized that North Adams no longer seems to have a regularly scheduled reading series,” said Finch, “That showcases literary talent in the Northern Berkshires.” Quinones, a poet herself, has lived throughout the rise and fall of Downtown, and says it’s good to have things on Main St. again. Quinones also found out that Design Lab used to be the location of
Lillian-Yonne Bertram will be the featured writer on Oct. 14. an old bookshop that held open mics in the early 2000s, which excited her even more about the event(s). Finch and Quinones met in a coffee shop, realizing how much they had in common and that they attended the same graduate school. There was a gap that they wanted to think about filling, according to Finch. “The sort of goal was to enliven and celebrate the literary art culture [of the Northern Berkshires], and also in particular to mesh campus literary life, what’s happening on campus.”
As a creative writing faculty member, Finch said that he always tries to have his students connect with the writing culture at large, to make contacts, meet mentors, and listen to other’s writing. The Gray Comma provides all of that. “This attracts both students and non-students,” said Finch. The fall semester’s lineup of featured writers has been advertised since the beginning of the semester. The first of four shows this semester took place on Sept. 9. It featured writer Lisken Van Pelt Dus, a poet from Western MA. Finch recalls about 30 to 40 attendees
(mostly students), and although he states that advertising for the first reading was tricky, he was happy with the turn out. Senior Paige Vincent attended the first Gray Comma event. “I thought the event was great,” she said. “It’s a good way for anyone interested in poetry to not old hear a professional, but the works of other students as well.” When asked about Van Pelt Dus’ performance on the ninth, Vincent said her style made her feel something. “Even if I wasn’t fully certain on what I was feeling, or why I was feeling that way, but that’s what poetry does.” The Gray Comma isn’t only excluded to poetry, Finch says that it’s open to all genres. After the feature writer has performed, the open mic begins. Those who attend can sign up for the open mic at the beginning of the event. Pros, essays, and even short stories can be read. “I did participate,” said Vincent. “It was definitely way out of my comfort zone. It was also the first time I shared anything at an open mic because I had gotten pretty serious about writing over the summer, so I decided to take the risk, and I’m glad I did.” “I really want readers to know that this is a safe space,” said Quinones, “And that people should be comfortable with their style.” Open mics have been revived in the past; when asked if this open mic is going to be similar to past events, Finch simply shakes his head. “You can’t replace what the Parlor had, and we’re not trying to replace it,” he said, “It was so good and so organic, but we’re just trying to be an addition to all of the other open mics.” The next Gray Comma event takes place on Oct. 14 at 7 p.m. at the Design Lab, featuring writer Lillian-Yvonne Bertram.
Welcome Fest Continues Traditions By Nora Hones A&E Writer
It was a slightly breezy afternoon reaching the low 50s, but that didn’t seem to stop students from pouring out to Welcome Fest on the Academic Quad Sept. 9. Welcome Fest is an event hosted by the Student Activities Council (SAC) the first weekend of the fall semester. Mostly for freshmen and new students, attendees can come engage with one another and have fun within their first few days of being at MCLA, according to sophomore and SAC Traditions Chair Carrie Fontana. “The upper classmen always know about it [Welcome Fest]. It’s a tradition,” Fontana said. When looking around the event, you could see that was definitely true, as students from all years were stopping by in the quad to see what was happening. Students like sophomore Kristen Perkins, attended the event even though she had other things happening that day, like
her soccer game. “My friend Carrie is putting on the event, and it’s her first one, so I wanted to go to support her,” she said. “It was also really fun last year, so I figured I’d go this year too.” Perkins’ favorite activity was either the blow-up basketball or the wax hand molds - but they were far from the only things happening there. There was also tie-dyeing, whiteboards being printed using pictures taken of students and their friends, DIY slates which students could decorate with an array of stickers and markers, a blow up obstacle course, and a pile of ice cream bars. “I came because of the free stuff, good vibes and to get involved,” freshman Dalaina Yamawaki said. Yamawaki had found out about the event through her older friends and fliers around campus. Her favorite things at the event were also the wax hand molds and the tie dye station. SAC picked out what they wanted at the
event over the summer from an array of vendors they work through. The process took a couple of months to get fully pulled together, according to Fontana, but both she and SAC were very happy with the results. Faculty and families also attended the event along with an array of cute puppies,
which seemed to interest the students as much as the activities provided. SAC is hosting two other events this month: a picture frame craft event on the 23rd at 8 p.m. in Sullivan Lounge, and a glow-in-the-dark wiffle ball game in the Quad on the 30th.
SPORTS
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Spartans March Past Trailblazers BY BRADY GEROW SPORTS EDITOR Behind a consistent offensive unit, the Castleton University Spartans Women’s soccer team handily defeated the MCLA Trailblazers 6-1 in a nonleague game Wednesday Sept 13 at Shewcraft Field. The Spartans started the game in control, and never let go of it. Only five minutes into the game, Spartan junior Bronwen Hopwood forced a turnover deep in Blazer territory and was able to send a low shot past Blazer keeper sophomore Megan Richardson. With the early edge in hand, the Spartans went on the attack. The Spartans controlled the ball for the majority of the ten minute span until their next goal. The Spartans found another opening in the 15th minute of play. After a wide shot, the Spartans retained possession and sophomore Makenzi Bellando fired a shot from the right side that sailed just under the crossbar into the left corner of the goal. The Spartans had a comfortable 2-0 lead only 15 minutes into play. The Blazers didn’t give
photo by Alyssa Call
MCLA freshman Brooke Mangiardi (White) battleing for a ball with Castleton junior Kaitie Sanders (Green) during last Wednesdays game. Castleton went home with a decisive 6-1 victory over the Trailblazers. up that easily, as they went on the attack for the next 15 minutes of play. The Spartans and Blazers battled back and forth, until the Blazers found their opening. Junior Lauren Mangiardi controlled the ball off a Spartan turnover at about the Spartan 18. Mangiardi sent a ball at the Spartan goal, and the ball
found the left corner of the goal just past Spartan keeper Kiley Baran. Mangiardi’s goal was the teams first goal of the season. “I was happy for her, because it was a quality goal,” said MCLA Head Coach Deb Raber. “Lauren was in the place where she needed to be, so overall I thought it
was a quality goal.” That was the only stint of offense that the Blazers were able to put together. The Spartans kept the foot on the gas pedal though. After MCLA cut the deficit in half with a goal, Spartan freshman Aubra Linn finished a cross from junior Megan O’Shea in the 41st minute that gave
the Spartans a 3-1 advantage going into the half. The Spartans kept the pressure on the entire second half, where only three minutes into the half Bellando knocked home a cross from junior Kate Steller. The Spartans followed with two more goals over the course of the half. Sophomores Rachel Keefer and Dallas Brodhead rounded out the scoring for the Spartans with a goal a piece, giving the final score of 6-1. MCLA has since dropped to 0-4 on the season after taking a 4-0 loss to Worcester St. in their MASCAC Opener. The Blazers have struggled with converting offense into goals so far this year. “We have to play the final ball better,” Coach Raber said. “Right now the quality of the final pass into the scoring threats is not quite there.” The Blazers will look to jump start their offense in their upcoming game against Westfield State on the road on Saturday Sept 23. The Spartans, now 2-3-1 on the year look to face off with Lyndon State in an away game on Saturday as well.
Romeo Grey scores game-winner Women’s Volleyball for victory over SUNY Cobleskill Defeated 3-2 by BY JEFFREY MAYOTTE SPORTS WRITER With a loose ball and 15 seconds left in double overtime, Romeo Grey scored to secure a 2-1 victory over the SUNY Cobleskill Tigers at Shewcraft field. This is Romeo’s second goal of the season, which propelled the Trailblazers to a 2-3 record thus far. Grey’s opportunity was assisted by middle fielder Khalil Kareh with 19 seconds left; Khalil was substituted for Tyler Tatro. Confronted and calm, Grey gently lobbed the ball while under pressure from defense players Alex Maldonado and goal keeper Josh Mazur. The first period took place most of the time in Trailblazer territory. The Tigers appeared to attempt scoring on the right side of goal keeper Kamron Anderson. Despite the strong defensive plays and saves, Cobleskill Tiger David Vosatka scored with assist by Jacob Bunker for the goal number 1 for the season. In the second half, the Trailblazers aggressive and explosive bursts of speed
Framingham State University
photo by MCLA Athletics
MCLA senior Romeo Grey dribbling the ball upfield in last Tuesdays game against SUNY Cobleskill. Grey recorded the game-winning goal in double overtime to give MCLA the 2-1 victory. MCLA is now 2-5 overall. helped combat the Tigers speed and patience. Lack of communication and a ticking clock didn’t prevent a goal by Oscar Castro. This is the first goal of the season for Castro with assist by Romeo Grey. There was no scoring in the first overtime. Two yellow cards were issued to MCLA Romeo Grey and SUNY Cobleskill Emile Vwaza. Romeo Grey attempted a header to end the game but
was blocked. MCLA needed another point to put itself in a suitable position before the weekend at MASCAC play in Worcester State. Instead they got the determined forward Romeo Grey to secure the victory. MCLA will next face off with Westfield St. on Friday Sept. 22 in a MASCAC contest at Shewcraft field. Start time is scheduled for 6 p.m.
BY JEFFREY MAYOTTE SPORTS WRITER The MCLA volleyball team was defeated by Framingham State University 3-2 competing in the Mass. State Collegiate Athletic Conference (MASCAC) action at the Athletic Center. The Trailblazers tumble with a 2-6 overall season, ending their previous streak. They are 0-1 in the MASCAC. MCLA secured the first set 25-21 with Trailblazer Mackenzie Whalen’s kill by Brooke Queirpel. The Rams took the second and third matches. Ram Tayler Wiese captured the second set with a service ace for 25-17. Ram Michaela Cronin kills the ball for 25-20. The final set was sealed when Ram Whalen set a kill shot for Grace Caughey. The last match was 12-15. MCLA scored 62 points for the game. The team had 83 digs, 22 from Mele Enomoto. 38 assists were played, 15 from Natasha Stewart. Volleyball season has 5 Conference games left and 13
photo by MCLA Athletics
MCLA sophomore Sara LaFreniere getting ready to bump a ball in a game earlier this year. LaFreniere had five kills and ten digs in the 3-2 loss to Framingham St.
regular games left in the season. The next home game will be Sept. 16 against Williams College. The Trailblazers will be competing next against Salem St. on Saturday Sept. 23 in a non-league match at home. Salem St. is 5-5 on the year, so they should be a good matchup for the Trailblazers who are off to a slow 2-10 start.
SPORTS
Lancers best Trailblazers 2-0 in MASCAC opener BY BRADY GEROW SPORTS EDITOR The Worcester State Men’s soccer team used a goal early in each half of play to handily defeat the MCLA Trailblazers 2-0 in both teams’ MASCAC opener on Friday, Sept. 15 in Worcester. The Lancers started the season off hot and carried that momentum into the first minutes of play in Friday’s game. Only four minutes into the contest, Lancer sophomore Mitch Myrthil received a pass from fellow sophomore Justin Echeverry and sent the ball into the back of the net. Despite the early burst of offense, the Lancers and the Blazers remained quiet for the rest of the first half. Even though they were unable to score for the rest of the half, the Lancers made sure Blazer goalie, senior Kamron Anderson, was
busy in the box. Anderson recorded all four of his saves on the game in the first half. The Lancers made sure to keep Anderson working, while simultaneously having made the Blazers offense a non-factor. The Lancers came out for the second half in almost the same fashion as the first. Only five minutes into the second half, junior Bryan Brasil found another opening off of a pass from senior Andre Ipojuca and increased the Lancers’ lead to 2-0. That was Brasil’s fourth goal of the week after having recorded a hat trick in a game earlier that week. Once the Lancers had a comfortable lead, senior keeper Jason Barrett closed out the game. The Blazers’ offense attempted to make the comeback in the second half, but were shut down by Barrett and the Lancer
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SCORE BOARD MCLA Men’s Soccer MCLA (0), Skidmore (2) Kamron Anderson (MCLA) 9 Saves2 Pts, 7 Reb, 4 Ast, 3 Stl, 1 Blk
David Braman (Skidmore)
1 Goal, 1 SOG Pts, 3 Reb, 4 Ast, 2 Blk
MCLA Women’s Soccer MCLA (1), SUNY Poly (2) photo by MCLA Athletics
MCLA junior Tyler Callahan taking a shot in a game earlier this year. defense. Barrett recorded three saves, two of which were crucial in the later half. Barrett finished the game with four saves and the win for the Lancers. Anderson recorded four saves as well, but was given the loss in goal for the Blazers. The Blazers have dropped to 2-4 overall and
0-1 in the MASCAC so far, while the Lancers improved to 3-1 overall and 1-0 in the MASCAC. The Blazers face off against Westfield State on Friday, Sept. 22 at home in a league game, while the Lancers face off with Fitchburg State at home on Saturday Sept. 23, also a league game.
How to be successful at Streaming in Fantasy sports Fantasy sports are the Padres at home, he is an typically varied experiences. easy choice for a streamer. There are leagues that run With Fantasy basketball, category based scoring, streaming becomes a lot there are your usual head to simpler in point based leagues. head point leagues and, for If your roster has open spaces, those with a unique taste, Andrew and your starting corps aren’t there are rotisserie leagues. all playing a game that day, Baillargeon go add the best player on free Whichever type of league The Call you find yourself in between agency who is playing a game Fantasy football, basketball that day. Plug him in and drop or baseball, there will, unless him as soon as you can to it’s a money league, quite often be restart the process. In category based a very high skill range between the leagues, if you need to make a push members of your league. You’ll have in a particular category, and a free the pros, the people who know the agent with a game that day has been ins and outs of everything, you’ll have providing that category that you need, the middle-ground people, who will stream him if you have room on your understand the sport but may be roster and starting unit. new to fantasy sports or just not have Fantasy football is where a great understanding of high level things get a little trickier. I want fantasy play, and then people who to clarify, handcuffing, the act are straight-up beginners. Getting of rostering a backup, usually a to high levels of fantasy play is not runningback, that will attain fantasy as demanding and difficult as it may appeal if their starter gets injured or seem. As someone who has been becomes ineffective, is not the same partaking in high levels of fantasy thing as streaming. A good example play for years, being generally pretty of streaming comes within D/ST successful, I want to introduce to units. You might not usually want to those who aren’t to the concept of roster the Jaguars D/ST given the Streaming. unit’s shoddy history in years recent, What is streaming, exactly? but if you happened to stream this Streaming is defined as the unit in their Week 1 blowout victory selection of a player or unit who over Houston, you would have made draws a favorable matchup in a very an excellent decision, as they took specific scenario, but is typically not advantage of a great, stream worthy worth rostering in the long haul, matchup and scored some really solid and will usually be dropped right points. Having said that, this unit is after they have been used for the not really worth rostering for the long matchup at hand. It may be referred haul, so you will likely want to have to colloquially as yo-yoing, bouncing, dropped them by now. Perhaps you ringing, or calling. will revisit them as a streamer when As it pertains to Fantasy baseball, Houston plays them again in week streaming is commonly used with 15? starting pitchers. You may not want As far as specific streaming to roster Dan Straily for the long haul strategies go, you will typically but, because he’s been fairly solid this want to look at the matchup more year and, say, has a matchup against than you will the player or unit in
question. Going back to my Dan Straily example, Straily has had some success this year, but a large amount of this success has come against MLB offenses ranked in the bottom half of the league. In his most daunting matchup against the Texas Rangers, Straily would have actually lost owners a lot of points when he gave up six earned runs in four innings pitched. Having said that, Straily would be worth a stream in good matchups, but remember why he is a free agent and not automatically on a roster in standard sized leagues. The only time you should ever Stream players with bad matchups is when you are in a desperate situation and need to make a come from behind, in which case employing a “fire and forget” strategy becomes your best option. Try to avoid doing this until later in the week, as doing it too early can very easily make a bad situation worse. It is worth noting that there are going to be “matchup proof” players or units who are the exceptions to this rule. In Fantasy football, it goes without saying that Tom Brady is one of these; you need to start him, even in the most tantalizing matchups. In Fantasy baseball, you would never want to bench Corey Kluber, even if he has a rough matchup. LeBron James or Steph Curry are automatic starts in any Fantasy basketball setting, when they have a game that day. Streaming is only meant to be used for free agent or fringe roster players. Andrew Baillargeon is the host of The Call, a weekly program broadcasted by WJJW. Tune in on Sundays from 7-10 PM. Listeners can also tune in via 91.1 WJJW or our website, http://www.mcla.edu/Student_Life/studentmedia/wjjw/.
Brooke Mangiardi (MCLA) 1 Goal, 3 SOG4 Pts, 4 Reb, 2 Ast, 1 Stl
Shannon Harrison (SUNY) 1 Goal, 3 SOG, 8 Shots 16 Pts, 7 Reb, 1 Stl
MCLA Women’s Volleyball MCLA (0), Skidmore (3) Brooke Queripel (MCLA) 4 Kills, 2 Digs 10-12. 100 yds, 0 TD
Caite Canfield (Skidmore)
9 Kills, 13 Digs Rec, 67 yds, 1 TD
NFL Patriots (36), Saints (20) Tom Brady (Pats)
30-39, 447 Yards, 3 TD15 Pts, 5 Reb, 1 Ast, 2 Stl, 2 Blk
Drew Brees (Saints)
27-45, 356 Yards, 2 TD15 15 Pts, 1 Reb, 1 Stl
NFL
Eagles (20), Chiefs (27)
Carson Wentz (Eagles)
25-46, 333 Yards, 2 TD15 15 Pts, 1 Reb,
Kareen Hunt (Chiefs)
13 Carries, 81 Yards, 2 TD20 Pts, 3 Reb, 2 Stl, 2 Blk
MLB New York Yankees (5), Minnesota Twins (2)
Starlin Castro (NY)
3-4, 1 Run, 1 RBI, 1 BB41 Pts, 8 Ast, 2 Stl
Brian Dozier (MIN)
1-3, 1 Run, 1 BB28 Pts, 22 Reb, 3 Ast
OPINION
10
Campus Comment
“What class are you most looking forward to this semester ?”
The Importance of getting involved in Local government While the presidential election is well behind us, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved with the political process this month and Nov. First and foremost, for students, today is the last day to get Student Government Association nomination papers in. However, anyone can still run as a write-in candidate if they fail to get their papers in by the deadline, but also note,
Getting a Grip: How to take a turn If you find yourself braking while turning, you may be doing something wrong. The details of traction can be fascinating. No, Joseph that is not a joke. When apCarew proaching any WheelSpin turn your car and its tires are suddenly statistic problems. Certain cars can handle a certain amount of lateral grip where others struggle. To improve this figure, the choice of tire is exceptionally important. Tires with more grip allow for turns to be taken at more intense speeds. There is a caveat to this though. If you’re riding in a Chevrolet Suburban for example and you put on the best street-legal tires on the market you will not be able to take that turn at the same speed as a Corvette. I know that seems obvious but I just want to be clear. You will be able to take
it much faster than before however. Your brandnew tires have a larger capacity for grip than the standard tires (probably all-weather or all-season ones geared for distance). Think of it this way: Now you have a 90 in the grip department (just a random figure so please play along). You can spend all 90 on braking in which case you’ll slow very rapidly but you are not going to make that turn. You’ll end up overusing it all and you may end up engine deep in that lovely restaurant with some perturbed owners staring at you. You can spend that 90 turning in which case you’ll surely flip off the cliff (right in front of that lovely restaurant). So this is the subject of this piece: The art of turning. You’ll see it all the time while observing professional racers approach turns. Hard and heavy braking on the approach of the turn
then nothing: a coasting moment where the Driver knows that they have hit the perfect speed and start to accelerate. If you use up all of your grip stopping in the middle of the turn you’ll run wide and lose time. So brake in the straight line leading up to the turn and then use your grip to take it. But this is the next hurdle: How much grip are you willing to spend on accelerating over turning? Too much of the former and the car will either make doughnuts or just go straight. Too much of the latter and you’ll make the turn no problem but you may die of old age before you get to enjoy it. So, as your driving today, think about the complexity of turning. I fully understand how crazy and foolish that sounds, but trust me when you feel in the seat of your pants a turn go perfectly there is almost no better feeling.
tant position in SGA as a whole – and it was given to an uncontested write-in candidate. And this all, if left unchanged, could have some real impacts on every affiliated SGA club and organization. Among other things, SGA is in charge of approving $200,000+ budget, that funds all of its member clubs. Not only this, but SGA officials often act on students behalf, serving as our
write-in canrepresentation in the didates need eyes of faculty and a minimum of administration. 20 votes plus City Election whatever it For those regisMitch takes to win tered to vote in North Chapman Adams, Nov. 7 brings to get elected. I.e. a balloted Not on My forth an important candidate with three-pronged election Watch 100 votes would in which voters will beat a write-in determine the city’s candidate who has 101 mayor, city councilors and votes, because 20 votes the area’s state represenare effectively subtracted tative (to fill the spot of from the vote total. the late Gailanne Cariddi). Over the past three While these elections years, I have seen far too are not necessarily open many people leave ofto every MCLA student, fice or resign. SGA needs plenty are already regiseffective leaders who are tered in North Adams due willing to occupy importo the recent presidential tant positions, rather than election last Nov. and, abandon them when it is while MCLA students in inconvenient for them. To no way account for the fix this, two things need to bulk of the voting populahappen: more people need tion in the city, there are to be running for SGA and enough of us to sway some voters need to be more of these races. In fact, skeptical of who they’re upon his 2015 defeat in a voting for. close mayoral race, former The Class Council North Adams Mayor and president races in parcurrent MCLA Trustee ticularly have, in the past, John Barrett cited that been arguably popularity some of the deciding votes contests, and the integrity in his loss might have of those positions have come from MCLA. suffered. It is extremely These local elections can unlikely that your class determine our regional president elected first serepresentation, as well mester freshman year will as the College’s relationremain your class presiship with the city of North dent upon graduation. Adams. It can also deBut most notably, with cide what attractions and any given position on what direction of growth SGA, it is very likely that the city will go in. Voting you may see no competidoesn’t cost money, just tion. Every person who your time. ran for a Senate position Remember, if you want last semester got voted in, change to happen, you and we had an uncontestcan’t just vote in one ed SGA presidential race election. It must be a (given, there were other continual effort to push candidates prior to their forth issues that matter disqualification, it is still to you and what solutions disheartening). We almost you think should remedy had no student trustee them. this year – the student body’s sole voice on the Board of Trustees, and arguably the most impor-
OPINION
Editorial: The Storm It seems today we live in a world dominated by controversy. A news event comes up, and instantly, your friends and family take their sides and battle again. The hurricanes that hit Texas and Florida in the past few weeks are the perfect example. Almost immediately after some of the photos of the utter devastation were brought to light, people began to post their usual war cries: That’s what they get for voting for Trump! Regardless of political affiliation this Hurricane has taken the lives of dozens and absolutely ruined the lives of thousands and it just seemed to bring out the worst in people. But then the donations began to pour in, along with the volunteers from around the country. People helping people without hesitation, without reservation they came to help those in need.
So we at The Beacon would like to address the divisions between all of us and the things that make us stronger and the things that make us weak. Disasters seem to bring out the best and the worst in us all. The cynical jokes as well as the helping hand. We think it’s about time that both sides admit to their wrongs and their rights. On the right, you have some people who need to admit that perhaps the past is complex and contains good as well as evil (baby steps here people) and that, yes, the climate of the planet seems to be taking a turn for the worst. They need to at least edge closer to the center so that people on the ground can be helped when Mother Nature decides she would much rather see the coast moved back a large amount. On the left, you have people who
need to be more open to different opinions (even though you may dislike them) and that, yes, this is an opportunity to levy some criticism but providing some relief would be much more helpful. They too need to edge closer to the center so that we can help save lives and keep the country from falling to pieces. When we find ourselves digging trenches at every possible moment, nothing will ever get done. In the early stages of the First World War, each side thought the conflict would end by Christmas that year. Instead it took four years and millions of lives to solve their problems. Now our position has a much better chance of seeing a better result but not if we refuse to meet in the middle.
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Policies
The College’s Stance DACA from page 4 are still resources available for ly surrounded the legislation. students who may have friends “Immigration has become such Photo from WikimediaCommons or family members affected by a polarizing issue in Washington if it comes before Congress. the rescission. That is why President Obama “It’s not just about students enacted this executive order in who might be DREAMers, but the first place, because there it’s about family members, was congressional inaction friends, and they have an equal around the issue. So he said, ‘well, if you’re not going to act, legitimate fear about changes to then I will.’” DACA that we want to protect,” According to Noel, there are Birge said. “Even though we several misconceptions surmay not have any students right rounding DACA. “Some people think DACA now, we know there are people Constitution from page 4 gives people citizenship status, who love and care for DREAM- but that’s not what DACA does. Rutberg also believes that the Coners. Our position is, as much for DACA is, or was, a two-year restitution is not a dead document and them as it is for the DREAM- newable status that would allow a student to legally work and that it must evolve to better fit the probers.” lems of today. For example he believes Assistant Professor of Eng- drive in the United States,” she said. that the second amendment shouldn’t lish/Communications Hannah However, the news surroundprotect your neighbor if he happens to Noel, whose specialty is in me- ing the DACA rescission has dia, culture and immigration been changing since Sessions’ build a dirty bomb and that the definistudies, reported that scholar- September 5 announcement. tion of “arms” shouldn’t allow citizens ships and other resources are “The information seems to to have that capability. becoming available to students be changing quickly . . . I think As the talk came to a close a person affected by the DACA rescis- it’s kind of waiting and seeing, in the audience asked about the use sion. but it’s definitely I think for “You’re not alone and you people and students, it’s obviof hateful speech could be considered have allies. I would say you ously a really important issue,” something to be censored. Rutberg recan come to me and talk to me Noel said. “I’m hopeful, but just affirmed his commitment that unless it about it, if I don’t necessar- because I’m hopeful doesn’t presented a “clear and present danger” ily have a resource at the top mean that people shouldn’t the speech should be ignored. of my head, but I know people mobilize. This is not an issue who know people and I might for one person; it’s a commube able to connect you,” Noel nity issue, it affects all of us.” said. “I think faculty, and not just myself, they are willing to help. That’s something I have found since I’m brand new here.” The DACA program was made via an executive order by President Barack Obama in June 2012. In order for one to qualify for DACA status, one must be enrolled in or graduated from school, or enlisted in the military. A felony conviction disqualifies one from DACA status. “It was a 2012 executive order by President Obama. This is why people say DACA is an overreach of presidential power. He, rather than going through Congress, decided to Sign up for SALT for free tips on budgeting, money, scholarships, pass this Deferred Action for Childhood Aretc. FREE to MCLA students!! Sign up at www.saltmoney.org rivals [DACA],” Noel said, explaining the controversy that initial-
Constitution Talk promotes coversation
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The Annual Greylock Hike Photos by Alyssa Call & Ron Leja
Magestic viewpoints such as this dot the roads winding up to the mountain’s summit.
The Veterans Memorial Tower located at the peak of Mount Greylock attracts many visitors on a day to day basis.
A handful of students gathered to embark on MCLA’s annual Greylock hike on Sunday
Freshman Connor Sampson (left) Joe Carew (center) and the director of student activities Jenn Craig (right) were the first of the group to reach Greylock’s summit.
The tangible map of the area located in front of the tower, showcases the many different hiking trails running along Mt. Greylock.