Student Newspaper of Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts North Adams, Mass.
The Beacon
For more content, visit online at: Beacon.MCLA.edu Volume 77 ◆ Issue 9
Th u r s d ay, N o v e m b e r 1 4 , 2 0 1 3
“The Calm Before the Storm”
New ARAMARK
accommodations
Photo by Nick Arena/The Beacon
Denise Maselli of Aramark works at the grab & go station in the Feigenbaum Center for Science and Innovation. In back, sophomore Nicole Hansen pours a cup of coffee.
By Nick Swanson Staff Writer
Photo by Ben Mancino
Mancino shot this photograph of a beach house on Hampton Beach, N.H. just as the sunlight broke through the stormy clouds approaching.
Photography is one of senior Ben Mancino’s many passions. Read more about what inspires him on page 3.
College to pilot new assessment By Nick Arena
Managing Editor MCLA will pilot one of four new leadership assessment courses for the Massachusetts Department of Education (DOE) this winter. According to the DOE’s website, this assessment looks at the effectiveness of people entering the upper tiers of the education world. This is particularly the case with principals and superintendants as the assessment focuses on organizational skills and vision. Howard “Jake” Eberwein III, dean of graduate and continuing education, was chosen to work on one of the sub-committees evaluating the assessment process. “The Department of Education has a range of licenses that they offer for educators, from classroom teachers to school leaders and district leaders,” Eberwein said. “We have historically, at MCLA, had a leadership certification licensure program. However, [administrative] candidates haven’t had to, in the past, take any sort of exam. Teaching candidates have had to take an exam, but the administrative candidates have not, other
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than the basic communication and literacy exam.” The new assessment is a joint effort between the DOE and Bank Street College in New York, according to Eberwein. Rather than a pen-and-paper exam, prospective leaders will be given lists of tasks to complete that will gauge their abilities. “One of the tasks would be to evaluate the conditions of the school; how are students performing on standard measures, the MCAS exam for example,” Eberwein said. “Are students doing okay? Are there certain patterns of students considered high needs in at-risk categories, and how are they doing? And then looking at things like how is the school organized, how is professional development being handled, and how does all of that fit together. Then [they] create some sort of recommended action plan to address any gaps that they identify and then recommend some strategies to close those gaps.” The committee Eberwein worked on was one of a number of committees that judged the assessment tasks to see whether
Beacon file photo
Howard “Jake” Eberwein III they were achievable , reasonable, and free of bias. “I sat on one of the steering groups that did some of that review work and the result of that review work was that Bank Street College took that feedback. They’ve adjusted the tasks, and now they’ve pressed out these four pilot tasks that are being testdriven in the next year,” he said. The College’s involvement in the process will be a program that focuses on one of the four pilot
DOE, continued on page 2
New retail manager of Aramark Jerel Dydowicz and director of Aramark John Kozik have worked with Aramark to implement new food services that accommodate different customer needs in the Centennial Room and around campus. Some students have reacted positively. “I think Aramark has gotten a lot better. The choices of food have increased toward other diets and they are keeping more in mind about what college students actually want,” said Junior Jacob Fennell. Kozik started a new system called the ‘voice of the customer program.’ The program is a customer feedback system enabling people to contact him through the dinning services website or by emailing him directly with formal comments or complaints. Not everyone has heard of the program, but it has come as good news to a few that have. “I didn’t know this new policy existed, but now that I do, it is nice to know that I can voice my opinion, especially because I am a vegetarian it will give me an outlet to suggest a few of my personal favorite options,” said senior Kayleigh Brand. Kozik says he responds to the emails as quickly as possible, and since the program began there have been more compliments than complaints by a 3-to-1 margin. “The employees are always really nice and helpful when I ask them what is on the menu and exactly what they use to cook the food,” Brand said. Fennell says he thinks the system will keep a better flow of
Capturing wildlife is student’s passion
Mainstage presents Shakes
Women’s soccer player stuns Conference
Senior Ben Mancino has been photographing since he was 13.
Twelfth night opens Wednesday, Nov. 20
Freshman Natalie Caney was named Rookie of the Year.
Arts & Entertainment, page 6
Sports, page 8
News, page 3
communication between Aramark and the College’s students. Better communication could lead to an increase of student satisfaction with available meal options. “Aramark is always seeking new ways to better serve our campus community including new menu items, retail selections, and our Healthy for Life wellness program,” Kozik said. There is a new grab & go mart in the Feigenbaum Center for Science and Innovation that is similar to the grab & go that was in Bowman Hall. Bowman is currently closed for renovations. “I think the idea of having soup, sandwiches, and breakfast items in the Center for Science building offers the folks with a busy schedule a chance to grab a meal or snack before continuing with their daily agendas,” Kozik said. Another new addition to Aramark’s services is called the “Late Night Grill,” which is open Thursday through Saturday from 9 p.m. to 12 a.m. in the centennial room. According to Kozik, late last spring, a pilot program was completed to test the Late Night Grill. He says it was a success, finding students enjoyed the option of different foods during later hours. The food is available as take-out or eat-in. There are other food and beverage options. Aramark employees staff the Trailblazer Café, Subway, and the Provisions on Demand (P.O.D.) market. The grab & go in Bowman Hall is planned to reopen during the fall 2014 semester. To date, Aramark has been serving the College’s dinning needs for 30 years, providing roughly 1,000 meals per day in the centennial room, and facilitating 800 retail transactions in other locations.
News Arts & Entertainment Sports Campus Opinion Local Events Photo Essay
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Campus News
Thursday, November 14, 2013
Weekend Weather
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Nos Cultura potluck
Thursday, November 14
DOE, continued from page 1
Partly Cloudy High: 45° Low: 26° Precip. Chance: 0%
Friday, November 15 Photo courtesy of the Cape Verdean Student Alliance
From left, Cape Verdean Student Alliance eboard members Joseph Goncalves, Isabel Teixeira, Marie-Ange Anodjo, Evana Williams, Whanellely Aaronelis Guerrero, and James Hunter.
By Jess Gamari Editor-in-Chief
Cloudy High: 50° Low: 30° Precip. Chance: 0%
Saturday, November 16
College and community to partner
Let your taste buds savor a taste of “a new, rare and beautiful culture,” this Saturday in Venable gym from 7-9 p.m. Enjoy four to five traditional Cape Verdean dishes along with desserts for $2 at Nos Cultura, the third cultural night sponsored by the Cape Verdean Student Alliance. Everyone who attends can expect to leave the potluck having learned more about the Islands of Cape Verde, says Senior Joseph Goncalves, president of the Cape Verdean Student Alliance. “The goal is to educate and immerse students from MCLA and the Berkshire community into a unique and little known culture,”
said Goncalves. “It is my goal to ensure that everyone who attends the event leaves with some knowledge of Cape Verde. That is when I know my job is complete. It’s a rewarding experience.” After dinner, stick around for a night of dancing, singing and poetry. Goncalves choreographed two of the dances being showcased at the event. “We had an open call and took everyone who was interested in learning a new type of dance,” he said. “It’s interesting because I have seen them grow so much and they have become so eager and determined to learn more.” Attendees will learn more about the Passada, a slow partners dance, as well as the Funana/ Kuduro team dance which has a
faster pace and beat. “I am looking forward to seeing all of our hard work for the past couple of months come to life,” Goncalves said. “I couldn’t have done it without my executive board. We did this together.”
Check it out! What: Nos Cultura night of music and food Where: Venable Gym When: Saturday Nov. 16, 7- 9 p.m. Admission: $2 The after party is free
tasks that the DOE will be implementing, he continued. “The task that we’re doing is a school and community partnership task that is actually asking the candidates to evaluate some relationship or need that would partner the school with an external agency —it could be a group of parents, it could be a business, it could be a non-profit, it could be a social service agency—and assessing that relationship, the need for cultivating that relationship, and then recommending some mechanism to advance that relationship so that it has an impact on kids in schools,” he said. He added that this will be wrapped up into a program for leadership students at MCLA that will kickstart this winter. “Candidates coming out of our program will have to participate in these performance tasks,” he said. “Our gameplan is that we’re going to insure that our program equips students to prepare to do these tasks and so, for example, we are about to offer a school and community partnerships course. The course will have the task embedded in it, so as students go through the course the final culminating product will be completion of the task. You want to align them.” Although this assessment will result in a licensure requirement for principals, superintendants, and other school leadership positions, educators who already hold those positions will be “grandfathered” in, according to Eberwein. “It will be at some point a requirement to get a license, so we anticipate that it will probably be in place sometime between 2015 and
2016,” he said.
Environmentalist Marion Stoddart to speak
to College about local issues next week Partly cloudy High: 52° Low: 32° Precip. Chance: 0%
Sunday, November 17
open to the public. “I had the privelage to attend a similar event a couple of years ago and I was really blown away by Marion Stoddart’s experience, what she had actually accomplished while cleaning up the Nashua River and the Fitchburg area, and what she had to say about how all of us can make a difference on challenging environmental issues,” Elena Traister, chair of the Environmental Studies Department, said. According to the website Workof1000.com, Stoddart’s resume includes founding the non-profit Nashua River Watershed Association, lobbying for legislation such as the Massachusetts Clean Waters Act, and earning multiple awards such as the United Nations Environmental Programme’s Global 500 Award in 1987. “I see this as both an interesting case study, but also as a real inspiration for people here in
this community where we actually have some similar challenges when we look at our river that runs through our city, and some of the efforts going on to try and improve the situation there,” Traister said. “I think there are some parallels, a lot we can learn, and that we can be convinced that there’s quite a bit of potential to make to make some progress.” For more information about Stoddart and her work, visit Workof1000.com.
LITTLE KNOWN FACT… Sponsored by the Health Center
By Nick Arena
Managing Editor
Cloudy High: 50° Low: 43° Precip. Chance: 10%
Grassroots Activist and Environmentalist Marion Stoddart will be coming to MCLA as a part of the Elizabeth and Lawrence Vadnais Environmental Issues Lecture series. The event will take place on Tuesday, Nov. 19, at 7 p.m. in Murdock 218. The event is
“The earliest evidence of condom use dates back to100200 A.D., seen in cave paintings in Combarelles, France.”
Thursday, November 14, 2013
Campus News
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Aiming to master nature photography
Photo by Ben Mancino
“Synchronized Sillhouettes.” Mancino shot this photo of his brother and his friend as they were approaching the shore at Brant Lake, N.Y.
By Hannah Sterrs Staff Writer
If you want to find Ben Mancino, just look for a camera and a wide smile. Ben Mancino, a senior arts management major, has been capturing the lives of students at the College from the minute he stepped onto the campus. Hailing from North Greenbush, N.Y., Ben has spent most of his time at MCLA behind a camera lens. However, this is nothing out of the ordinary for him. After denying a creativity and innovation scholarship at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), Ben decided to come to MCLA having fallen in love with the Berkshire county scenery and community. “The RIT campus was very flat and there wasn’t a lot of nature,” Mancino said. He says he believed he made the right choice. Wanting to get involved on campus since his arrival in fall 2010, Mancino became a member of the Photography Club and Colleges Against Cancer (CAC), a club he is now president of. “Ben is an outstanding club leader,” said Lauren Terralavoro, secretary of CAC. “He has the dedication.” “He’s been involved with CAC ever since his freshman year,” Terralavoro continued. “He is very driven toward ad-
vancing the club, getting more members, and upgrading the MCLA Relay for Life Walk.” Ben, who Terralavoro described as “passionate,” has many interests in life. However, photography is his main passion, a passion he says he hopes to make his career. Mancino first became interested in photography at age 13, after having a long-time “obsession,” as he calls it, with photographs. “I got my first camera in seventh grade,” Mancino said. “I wanted to be able to take a picture and have it look exactly how I wanted it to.” Last year, his photography was published in MCLA’s Spires literary magazine, and he plans to submit more work this year. In the upcoming schoolyear, Mancino will have his photography featured in a gallery exhibition run through the MCLA Berkshire Cultural Resource Program’s DownStreet Art. Interested primarily in photographing nature, Ben also captures the essence of human nature through his job with the College’s student development office. Photographing students at various college events, his pictures have been used in various publications at MCLA. Mancino sometimes tables in the marketplace, selling pictures from his growing portfolio. He has also used his keen eye to create a business. Ben
Mancino Photography is available to people who want their portrait, or a portrait of their family, taken. Alyssa Conley, a junior at the College, had a photo shoot with Mancino this past summer. “Working with Ben was really enjoyable,” Conley said. “Being in front of a camera can be nerve-wracking, but he is so creative and easy to work with.” Thanks to the photography experience he has gained through his job with MCLA and on his own time, Mancino has high goals for himself. Through his major in arts management, he hopes to eventually open a gallery of his own. “My ideal gallery would highlight my own work and work of artists that I admire,” Photo by Samantha Thomson/The Beacon Mancino said. “But I would Ben Mancino has been interested in photography since he was 13 years old. also like it to be a space for students to create and display their work.” Mancino says he would also love to create a magazine, similar to National Geographic, which would only focus on nature. To master the art of photographing nature - Ben’s ultimate goal - he plans to travel to the South American rainforests within the next five years. “Everything that I see is a photograph,” Mancino said with a gleam in his eye and passion in his voice. “I want to Photo by Ben Mancino be the best I can be,” he said. “Life Switch,” taken in Mancino’s living room in East Greenbush, N.Y.
World News 4 Aid workers struggle to reach Philippines Thursday, November 14, 2013
MCT Campus
Four days after Typhoon Haiyan blew away their homes and livelihoods, most Philippine victims remain in far-flung flooded coastal communities where they so far have been unable to obtain assistance, aid workers say.
“There is a critical need for fresh drinking water and food, but it is very difficult to get anything in.” -Katherine Manik The United Nations on Tuesday launched an appeal for $301 million to help victims, while U.S. and British warships headed toward the region. In its appeal for funds, the U.N. estimated that more than 11 million people have been affected by the typhoon, one of the strongest storms ever to hit land, with 660,000 left homeless. The official death toll passed 1,700 on Tuesday and is expected to rise substantially. However, Philippine President Benigno Aquino III downplayed estimates that 10,000 or more people may have died, telling CNN that the death toll would more likely be about 2,000 to 2,500 people. Arriving Tuesday in Manila to coordinate the efforts, U.N. humanitarian chief Valerie
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Amos said that money was needed for “food, health, sanitation, shelter, debris removal and also protection of the most vulnerable.” On the hard-hit island of Leyte, there is only one major airport; it’s in the devastated city of Tacloban. Aid workers say that the road from the airport into the city is so clogged with debris, interspersed with the now-putrefying remains of the dead, that it takes three hours to get from the airport into the city center. Roads leading inland are entirely impassable. “We have not been able to get into the remote communities,” Amos told reporters. “Even in Tacloban, because of the debris and the difficulties with logistics and so on, we have not been able to get in the level of supply that we would want to.” Katherine Manik, country director for ChildFund International, said that an aid crew was able to reach the city of Ormoc on the other side of Leyte by boat but couldn’t move far from the dock. “There is a critical need for fresh drinking water and food, but it is very difficult to get anything in. There aren’t enough boats. There is no electricity. Nobody can even recharge their cellphones,” Manik said. Even in at the makeshift clinic next to the Tacloban Airport, where the Philippine Air Force’s C-130 cargo planes have been making regular runs from Manila, aid workers complained that they have no
MCT Campus FIle Photo
A man sits on the ruins of a home hours after Typhoon Haiyan destroyed it. medicine to treat emergency cases. for the lack of electrical power. The last “It’s overwhelming,” air force Capt. anybody heard from him was when the Antonio Tamayo told the Inquirer Daily program abruptly went off the air. News. “We need more medicine. We cannot The coastal topography of the Philippines give anti-tetanus vaccine shots because we might have contributed to the unexpectedly have none.” high storm surges, which many witnesses One difficulty is that the infrastructure compared to a tsunami. of local government has disappeared. “The entire country is coastal areas. It isn’t Tacloban Mayor Alfred Romualdez told like India. There isn’t much inland. This reporters that of 1,300 police, only 100 typhoon made landfall in the Philippines were coming to work. nine times at different locations. You had One radio anchorman in Tacloban City not just the wind, but the tidal surges was drowned as he gave updates on the and the swelling of water,” said Warner typhoon from a two-story office building Passanisi, the global emergency response downtown, using generators to make up coordinator at ChildFund International.
Experts hope to see sugar and salt targeted by FDA Gold found growing on trees making a decision to ban trans MCT Campus Now that the Food and Drug Administration has moved to banish most trans fats from the nation’s diet, some public health advocates are hopeful that two other beloved ingredients, sugar and salt, will be subject to similar scrutiny. “Sodium is next,” said Dr. Dariush Mozaffarian, a Harvard University epidemiologist and cardiologist at Boston’s Brigham and Women’s Hospital. In acting to remove artificial trans fats from the food supply, Mozaffarian said, the FDA has acknowledged a scientific consensus that they are hazardous to the public’s health. The same case could be said about excess dietary sodium, and that should be an equally powerful prod to FDA action, he said. Tom Neltner, an analyst with the Natural Resources Defense Council in Washington, D.C., said that sugar, too, may become a target in the wake of Thursday’s FDA action. In regulating food additives, the FDA has historically focused on removing chemicals that cause death and acute injury, Neltner said. Now the agency has demonstrated that it’s ready to step in when a food additive contributes to chronic diseases that kill many people slowly. “I hope this presages a new willingness to regulate with an eye to these chronic illnesses,” Neltner said. Even compared with saturated fat, a frequent fellow traveler, trans fatty acid is a bad actor, knocking the blood’s lipid levels into dangerous territory on two fronts. Not only does it raise levels of LDL cholesterol, the bad kind;
MCT Campus File Photo
Energy drinks would be effected by this possible change in FDA regulations trans fat consumption depresses levels of HDL cholesterol, which is considered protective against heart disease. Harvard University public health professor Walter Willett and colleagues estimated in 1994 that consumption of trans fatty acids caused 30,000 Americans to die prematurely of coronary heart disease each year. Other estimates have soared as high as 100,000 premature deaths per year. In a more recent update of trans fat’s toll, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reckoned that eliminating the remaining trans fat from American diets would prevent the premature cardiovascular deaths of 7,000 Americans and head off three times as many nonfatal heart attacks. In an interview Thursday, Willett cautioned that regulating sodium and sugar as additives would hardly be as easy as
fats. While trans fats have no nutritional value, salt is an essential nutrient. And sugar, when consumed at reasonable levels, is not harmful, he said. If it is to act on mounting scientific concern about dietary sodium and sugar, the FDA will have to rethink the assumption that an additive it considers to be as safe “is safe in any amount,” Willett said. The FDA’s regulation of food additives has come under growing criticism in recent years, and again on Thursday with the release of a three-year assessment of the FDA’s program by the Pew Charitable Trusts. As the number and variety of substances added to food in the United States has exploded, the agency’s resources, as well as its regulatory powers under the 1958 Food Additives Amendment, have been overwhelmed, the Pew report concluded. The FDA has the legal authority to scrutinize any new chemicals before they are added to food and are introduced to the market, and to approve or deny their use. But in 1997, the agency acknowledged it was sitting on an overwhelming backlog of requests, and announced that it would accept voluntary notifications of planned additive use from food manufacturers. That policy would allow a food company pondering use of a new chemical in its product to make the case that the proposed additive was “generally recognized as safe,” or GRAS. Unless the FDA challenged the company’s argument, the company would then be free to use the additive as it saw fit.
A team of scientists in Austraila has disproven the old saying “Money doesn’t grow on trees”
MCT Campus File Photo
The roots of Eucalyptus and Acacia trees (shown) have been found to dig so deep in search of water that they reach gold deposits. MCT Campus It turns out gold can grow on trees, given the right conditions. A team of Australian scientists has found small amounts of gold in the leaves, twigs, and bark of eucalyptus trees growing above gold deposits buried deep beneath the ground. Unfortunately, you won’t get rich off these golden trees. The amount of gold detected was very tiny, just 80 parts per billion in the leaves, 44 parts per billion in the twigs, and just 4 parts per billion in the bark. You certainly could not see any gold with the naked eye. Still, as the scientists write in the journal Nature Communications, their study represents the first time, to their knowledge, that naturally occurring gold particles were imaged in the cells of biological tissue. Previous studies have shown that plants will uptake small amounts of gold that have been
deliberately placed in the soil in laboratory experiments, but the concentrations of gold in those experiments are much higher than what would typically be found in the natural environment. Gold is toxic to plants, which may explain why the eucalyptus trees moved much of the gold they absorbed from the ground to their leaves, says lead author Melvyn Lintern of CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency. By shunting the gold to their leaves, the trees can easily shed the gold deposits. Then the leaves decompose, dropping gold into the soil, and process begins again. Lintern and his team are not suggesting that anyone can start mining these golden trees, but they do think that gold prospectors could look to vegetation to learn where gold deposits might be. Instead of “There’s gold in them thar hills,” future prospectors might be shouting “There’s gold in them thar trees!”
Thursday, November 14, 2013
World News
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Protect your passwords to prevent being hacked
Many people are having trouble keeping track of their passwords. Experts share their tips on preventing intruders from hacking your personal information. MCT Campus
How many passwords do you have? Rajean Moone of Minneapolis has so many more than 75 that he tracks most of them on a super-secret spreadsheet. Others he scribbles on hidden Post-It notes coded in a foreign language. “It’s getting kind of ridiculous,” he said. As our lives have become digitized, the number of passwords we juggle has exploded. There’s e-mail, online banking, Facebook, Amazon, even the library. At the same time, keeping passwords secret from increasingly sophisticated cybercriminals requires ever more complex requirements. Yet a foolproof system to manage dozens of passwords (which should be a combination of letters, numbers and symbols) remains elusive, even as tech companies tease with gizmos like the fingerprint scanner on the new iPhone 5S. In a fit of frustration, many of us default to easy passwords that we repeat across multiple websites a practice that practically begs hackers to breach our penetrable defenses. While the average person isn’t often the target of an allout attack by cybercriminals, many of us
become vulnerable when the sites holding our passwords are compromised. If that stolen password is the key to everything important in our lives identity, finances, personal information then we’re in trouble. “A little bit of prudence goes a long way,” said Joseph Konstan, a computer science professor at the University of Minnesota. Yet even Konstan admits the best practice such as using a different complex password for every site is tough to follow. He heeds that suggestion for his most important info, say financial and e-mail accounts. But he uses repeated passwords for sites that seem to require passwords just so they know who you are, including basic apps or free news websites. If it’s a site Konstan rarely uses, he simply forgets and resets the password the next time he visits. “We have managed to engineer a password system that is extremely taxing on people,” he said. One of the biggest sticking points: Each site has its own rules for password length and complexity. Some let users opt for two-factor authentication a combination of something you know and something you possess. For instance, Gmail’s optional two-step security calls for a password and then a code sent to the user’s smartphone. Twitter enabled a similar system this spring
after prominent news organizations were hacked. A false tweet about bombs at the White House, sent through the Associated Press’ compromised account, sent the stock market plummeting. The dizzying list of security features can cause headaches for users. Password has almost become a curse word. “It used to just be that you could use a word. Then you could have a combination of words and numbers. Now it’s like you have to have words, numbers and some sort of symbol,” said Angela Mattson of Mendota Heights, Minn., who keeps an assortment of passwords written down in different places. “It gets a little confusing.” Then there are security questions, odd personal trivia that can make you doubt your self-knowledge as you attempt to prove your identity. What was your first teacher’s name? What street did you live on in fourth grade? What was your maternal grandmother’s maiden name? Experts say it’s best to give a false answer when setting up security questions. Even if grandma’s maiden name was Johnson, you should say it was Williams. That way intruders can’t crack the questions through research, as a college student did when he hacked Sarah Palin’s e-mail in 2008 by correctly answering questions about
the authenticity of the draft. “This is a close-to-final work in progress,” Field said.
more acidic, the report says. By 2100, hundreds of millions of people in coastal areas will be flooded or displaced by rising sea levels. The arid subtropics will have less fresh water, leading to more competition for resources. The global food supply is also at risk, with yields of wheat, rice, corn and other major crops projected to drop by as much as 2 percent each decade for the rest of the century, even as demand rises. Among the other risks forecast in the report: Extreme heat waves that will be especially deadly in urban areas, where a growing population will also contend with severe storms, flooding and drought. Rural areas will cope with less drinking and irrigation water and less productive farming. Global surface temperature has risen about 1.5 degrees since 1880 as greenhouse gases have accumulated in the atmosphere from burning fossil fuels, industrial activity, agriculture and deforestation. Cutting emissions could ease the rate of
MCT Campus Photo
People have a hard time keeping track of their password information with the increase use of technology. her birthdate and family. But good luck remembering those false answers. Michelle Brooks of Fridley, Minn., was stumped recently when an attempt to reset a password led to this question: What was your childhood nickname? Frustration with a folder stuffed full of written passwords prompted David Bergum to look for a better system. It was a particularly thorny problem because he divides his time between the northern Minnesota town of Isabella, North Carolina and New Zealand.
Climate change portraying threat to the planet MCT Campus Climate change will disrupt not only the natural world but society, posing risks to the world’s economy, the food and water supply and contributing to violent conflict, an international panel of scientists says. The warnings came in a report drafted by the United Nations-backed Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. The 29-page summary, leaked and posted on a blog critical of the panel, has been distributed to governments around the world for review. It could change before it is released in March. “We see a wide range of impacts that have already occurred ... on people, ecosystems and economies,” said Chris Field, a scientist at the Carnegie Institution for Science and co-chairman of the group writing the report. “Looking into the future, we see increasing risks that are more pervasive and more severe with greater amounts of climate change.” Field and an IPCC spokesman confirmed
“We see a wide range of impacts that have already occurred ... on people, ecosystems and economies.” -Chris Field The report describes a planet in peril as a result of the human-caused buildup of greenhouse gases since the Industrial Revolution, where glaciers are shrinking and plants and animals have shifted their ranges in response to rising temperatures. As global warming continues through the 21st century, many species will face greater risk of extinction, marine life will shift toward the poles and seawater will grow
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change, but not until the second half of the century, the report says. The report “brings this issue home and it shows us why it’s important,” said Katharine Hayhoe, a climate scientist at Texas Tech University who did not contribute to the assessment. “The reason we care about climate change is because it affects us: It affects our food, our water, our health, our roads, buildings and infrastructure and our natural environment.” Climate change alone isn’t the cause of most of the ill effects. Rather, it worsens them by interacting with other factors, such as population growth, urbanization and exploitation of natural resources. The panel sees the changing climate slowing down economic growth and worsening poverty, hunger and disease. The report also says climate change increases the risk of violence and civil war. Some low-lying countries will see their territorial integrity challenged by rising sea levels says.
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Arts & Entertainment
Thursday, November 14, 2013
Dispatch from Disney
Main Stage’s ‘Twelfth Night’ takes an Edwardian twist By Shannen Adamites
Arts and Entertainment Editor Photo courtesy of Candice Crow
“It’s not easy being green” Candice Crow
Disney World Correspondant
W
alt Disney World is “keepin’ it green.” Resorts all over the property are focused on being more environmentally aware. By participating in the Florida Green Lodging program, Walt Disney World is fastly becoming a green company. I work as a hostess for The Wave of American Flavors, which is located in Disney’s Contemporary Resort. It is one of the only organic restaurants on Disney property. Their locally bought food boosts Florida’s economy and adds flair to their menu, which changes each season. Kelson, one of my leaders at The Wave, enjoys working in an environment that supports and recognizes the importance of being environmentally conscience. Kelson himself did the College Program in 1994, while attending the University of Missouri. Shortly after his program, Kelson was offered a job in advanced resources, and later went on to obtain his master’s in business, which led him back to Disney, where he has held a multitude of different roles. “It’s important to come down with the right attitude, you have to work hard,” Kelson said when asked to give advice on engaging in the Disney College Program. Disney also participates in the Harvest Program, which donates prepared food to the Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida. Through this program over 1,000 local children are fed on a weekly basis. Disney as a company pays it forward, not only to their local economy, but to the world. By making small changes, such as using recycled paper to print quest information or recycling old room keys, they are making a big impact on the environment. It is important to look at the bigger picture. Just keep in mind when you are looking for a job or internship not to compromise your beliefs or moral standings. You should be proud of the company you work for. If you are not, it will impact your job performance and your overall attitude on life. The best advice I can give is when searching for an internship or future job, write a list of standards you have for yourself and for your potential employer. Never settle. The happier you are the more dedicated you will become.
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The Fine and Performing Arts (FPA) department is presenting an Edwardian rendition of William Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night on Nov. 20, 21, 22, and 23 at 8 p.m., with a matinee on Nov. 23 at 2:00 and a symposium discussing Shakespeare in performance preceding the matinee performance at 12:30 p.m. ‘Twelfth Night’ tells the story of Viola, a girl who was tragically shipwrecked and separated from her twin brother. After assuming that her brother has been drowned, a countess, Olivia, has called off her marriage to grieve, as she has lost her own brother as well and refuses to take the hand of the Duke. Viola feels compelled to help Olivia, and takes on the disguise of a male page to enter the service of the Duke, which in turn, results in Olivia falling for her. The play focuses a great deal on love, power, mix-ups and pranks, discovering ones’ self through hardship and chaos. Theater professor and director Laura Standley sets the classic comedy in the Edwardian era, popularized by the television series, ‘Downton Abbey,’ and the 1997 Blockbuster ‘Titanic,’ and utilizes themes of water and drowning as an inspiration to the design and as away to convey the characters’ thoughts and desires. “I wanted to create a word that seems drowned or lost on a
beach,” she said. “Drowning and water images occur throughout the play, and there are many references to the sea.” Standley said the rehearsal process was very traditional; actors started the process by analyzing and thoroughly going over the text, followed by applying character movements and staging, and modifying the words and the movements before deciding on the final product. Text work is an extremely valuable aspect when performing Shakespeare; with enough analysis, the words will start to sound natural. She also emphasized that the actors are Americans performing Shakespeare, and that delivering them in a way that sounds natural to an American audience will result in a more accessible and enjoyable show. Standley has worked closely with several student actors with stage combat. She is a certified fight choreographer herself, and has worked with several Broadway fight choreographers in the past. Students have been learning several different swordfighting techniques for the performance. Music professor Michael Dilthey has also provided original compositions for the show’s score. His music, along with traditional Elizabethan tunes and Edwardian arrangements, will provide a dreamy and romantic atmosphere as the audience becomes enveloped in the world of the play. “This is Shakespeare’s most
Poster design by Shannen Adamites/The Beacon
‘Twelfth Night’ features romantic, Edwardian influences. musical play,” Standley said. professor Roseanne Denhard, “The chorus plays a key role in will be held to highlight various this production. They aren’t just aspects of Shakespearean pera nameless group, but rather formance. developed characters of Olivia’s Tickets for ‘Twelfth Night’ are household.” $10 for the general public, $5 Prior to the matinee perforfor faculty and staff, and free for mance, a panel discussion feastudents. To reserve, e-mail boxturing Shakespeare and Comoffice@mcla.edu or call the box pany’s Director of Training, office at 413-662-5123. Dennis Krausnick, and English
Sophomore to attend performing arts conference By Hannah Sterrs Staff Writer
Most everyone loves music; sophomore Kathleen Sansone wants to work with it for the rest of her life. An arts management major, Sansone says she almost attended school in either Pennsylvania or Kentucky, but is happy to find herself immersed in the culture of Berkshire county. “I love that MASS MoCA is right down the road,” Sansone said. With wavy black hair pulled into a ponytail, peace sign earrings, and a colorful purse slung over her shoulder, Sansone’s creativity is evident. Despite her creative nature, Kathleen says she hopes to stray away from her creative side after graduating in 2016 and and work toward a career in arts administration. “Through the experiences I’ve had over the years, I have gained a lot confidence,” Sansone said. “I’ve also gained the ability to lead.” Coming from what she calls a ‘theatrical family’, Kathleen started her life in the arts while she was still attending Acton High School.
Having a love for theatre, but not wanting to be on the stage herself, Sansone became the publicity head for her high schools’ theater program. Kathleen continued to work in theater after entering the College in fall 2012. She has since served as the stage manager for the Harlequin’s performance of “Into the Woods,” and for Yorick’s production of “The Tempest,” both in spring 2013. This semester, Sansone was the stage manager for the Fine and Performing Arts production of “Spring Awakening.” She says while being a stage manager “you need to keep things calm, lead students and call technical shots. It can be very intimidating.” It was not until watching a set by The National at the Boston Calling Music Festival in May that Sansone says she really realized she wanted to work in music rather than theater. Since then, Sansone has volunteered at MASS MoCA’s Fresh Grass music festival and will be attending the Association of Performing Arts Presenters (APAP) conference in Manhattan, N.Y., during the monthlong winter break. A handful of
other selected MCLA students will join her. “I get to spend five days immersed in New York City arts and culture,” Sansone said excitedly. APAP will be a chance for Sansone to network with arts presenters and managers, see a variety of performances, as well as input her suggestions for the 2014-2015 MCLA Presents! season. “APAP will be a lot of fun, but it will also throw me into the world I hope to work in,” Kathleen said. “I can’t wait.” While working with the Fine and Performing Arts department, Sansone says she also plans to continue volunteering and possibly intern with MASS MoCA. After graduating, Sansone says she’d like to work for an arts organization or for a music festival, where she will ultimately be immersed in the music she loves so much. Though exactly which artist takes the crown is a hard decision to make. “It’s impossible to answer,” she said. “I love too many!” Although she cannot choose her favorite musical artist, Sansone knows she wants to dedi-
Photo by Kayla Degnan/The Beacon
Sansone plans to attend APAP over winter break to further explore music administration and performing arts management. cate her life to the field and says she’ll continue to do as much as she possibly can to succeed.
Thursday, November 14, 2013
Arts & Entertainment
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‘50 Years’ energetically reflects on social movements Review by Nick Arena Managing Editor
The Church Street Center filled with students and community members on Sunday to welcome jazz trombonist Craig Harris and his performance “50 Years After the Fire.” Harris performed with his band Nation of Imagination, which featured Carla Cooke on vocals, Gene Torres on bass, Yoithi Uzeki on keyboard, and Tony Lewis on the drums. The group was joined in their soulful performance by members of the Allegrettos, with whom Harris has been working in the months leading up to the performance. “This particular partnership has been an amazing one to watch grow,” said Thomas Alexander, coordinator for ALANA and international and veteran programs and services. “It’s still in the embryonic phase.” The pieces in “50 Years After the Fire” focused heavily on Harris’ hometown of Harlem, N.Y., the Civil Rights Movement, the forces that drove the movement into existence, and the things that unified everyone to keep fighting. “This is a period that really defined my life and shaped me,” Harris said. As soon as Harris picked up his trombone and the band started playing, the atmosphere in the auditorium immediately began to mellow. The band alternated between smooth jazz
Photo by Gabriel Kogel/The Beacon
The College’s renowned Allegrettos performed alongside Craig Harris and his ensemble on Sunday for ‘50 Years After the Fire.’ pieces and pieces which resembled free-form breakdowns. The pieces focused heavily on the instrumental, with Cooke and the Allegrettos providing a steady harmony to add a bit of structure to the instrumental breakdowns. The lyrics were minimal and evoked images of the environment and the changes which were happening during the 1960s. Throughout the numbers, Harris energetically bounced back and forth between blaring into his trombone, harmonizing with the vocalists, and conducting the Allegrettos. His energy never wavered throughout
the performance. “Life is too short,” Harris said. “I turned 60 in September and I don’t care no more!” The band closed on an unscheduled number about 125th Street in East Harlem, and exited to uproarious applause from the crowded auditorium. After the performance, members of the Allegrettos reflected on the experience of working with Harris. “Actually, the process was initially difficult for the singers because it was very out of our comfort zone,” Britney Blevins, sophomore and gospel director of the Allegrettos, said. “We
were very unfamiliar with the way that he saw the final vision. But as we started coming together and as we started practicing with him more we got closer to him, even on just a personal level. I think that it really helped us mesh well together on stage.” Senior Tiniqua Patrick, one of two solo vocal performers during the show, said she would gladly do it all again. “It was long, but it was educational, it was enlightening, it was inspiring, and as hard as we worked and as tedious as it was, I would do it all over again,” Patrick said. “I felt really
good about it. He threw in an extra song last minute, but we worked hard, and we made it what it was tonight, and I’m really proud of it.”
Scan for another review of ‘50 Years’ by Gabriel Kogel
‘Thor’ sequel is a fun, action-packed superhero film Spires holds creative contest Review by Raanan Sarid-Segal Arts and Entertainment Writer “Thor: The Dark World” is another of this year’s examples of a fun and effective superhero film which takes advantage of what a superhero movie really is—silly. Superheroes are, by nature, larger-than-life placeholders for ideas. This means that, though good stories can be told with them, they always bring along an element of the ridiculous. Most of the best superhero works keep this fact in mind when constructing their worlds, though a few do manage to tell serious stories in serious ways. This sequel to “Thor” is a great example of how Marvel Studios has accepted the silliness and is simply rolling with it. It dives wholeheartedly into the weird cosmic nonsense of the Marvel universe with almost no attempts to lessen the impact. It starts with Thor, played by Chris Hemsworth, trying to fix the problems caused by the events of the previous films “Thor” and “The Avengers.” Meanwhile, Jane Foster, played by Natalie Portman, has been roped into examining an bizarre occurrence. In the process she gets infected, for lack of a better word, with a substance called the “aether.” This is a
universe-destroying weapon created by Malekith, king of the Dark Elves, played by Christopher Eccleston. Thor has to protect both Jane and Asgard as the Dark Elves launch an attack to retrieve the “aether,” and eventually must try to save the entire universe. Malekith is a less interesting antagonist than the film’s other villain, Loki (Tom Hiddelston), who has been held in prison since the events of “The Avengers.” When a particularly effective attack on Asgard leaves Odin unable to act properly, Thor must work with Loki to devise a plan to save Jane and Asgard. It all culminates in a big, silly, and possibly bloated action scene which nevertheless captures the enjoyable strangeness of a comic book universe. This is another superhero action film, and if superheroes do not work for you as a genre then this film will not change your mind. Its plot is fun, but nothing too surprising, and though the actors almost all do fine work, none of them provide a “must see” performance. One refreshing aspect of the movie is how much the supporting characters assist in the story and have their own arcs. The film gives nearly everyone in the supporting cast a defining moment. Particularly encouraging is how Jane, Frigga,
By Rachel Fitterman Copy Editor
Photo from i.huffpost.com ‘Thor 2’ is cosmically nonsensical and an overall very fun action film.
and Darcy are treated in the narrative; they are given their own minor arcs and push ahead the story on their own. A sad fact of Hollywood cinema is the dearth of both roles for women and films that treat female characters as anything beyond a prize for the hero. It is nice to see here a major movie that manages to pass something as basic as the Bechdel Test. In short, “Thor: The Dark World” was a fun cinematic diversion, and offers a window into just how weird Marvel is willing to get with their movies.
Spires, the College’s literary journal, is hosting a poetry, prose, and visual art contest for students. Cash prizes will be awarded to three winners in each category, and first place winners will receive automatic publication in this year’s edition of Spires. Submissions are due to mclaspires@gmail.com any time before Thanksgiving break. The contest, Spires’s first, came to co-editors-in-chief Chris Hantman and Kaylie Sweet from Spires advisor and English professor Zack Finch. “Our advisor had the idea, and we just ran with it,” Sweet said. “We wanted to re-introduce Spires as a literary journal that is completely open to all students, not just an inner circle. The contest is a way to advertise the journal and cast a wide net for submissions,” Finch explained. Finch noted that submitting work to a literary magazine is beneficial for students regardless of whether or not they are published. “It’s a great idea for people to submit because as a writer, it forces you to go back through your poems and stories and bring the best possible work to fruition,” he said. The process of selecting winners ensures that all work is read
fairly. A submissions manager collects everything and takes authors names off of the copies given to the editorial board before dividing them into each category. The editors receive a packet of work and a week to read it thoroughly before deliberating the results. Spires recently received extra funding from the English department, and the editors-inchief both articulated that the best way to use that money was to give it back to the students who make the journal possible. Sweet also said that students can get involved with Spires beyond submitting by attending their joint open mic nights and talking to the editorial staff. Finch urged the importance of having a literary journal on campus. “It’s a celebration of the creative arts and creative writing at the College. It’s a forum for creative writers,” he said. When asked how the College benefits from Spires, Sweet responded, “MCLA benefits from a literary journal because MCLA benefits from art.” Spires will be hosting an Artists’ Market on Dec. 4, where poets, authors, and visual artists will display and sell their work. The market will culminate in a poetry reading that night, where the winners of the contest will have the option to read their submissions aloud.
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Sports
Thursday, November 14, 2013
Chris’ Corner Kick
Caney stuns the Conference James Hunter Sports Writer
Chris Oxholm Sports Editor
Bears wrestle alone The winter season for the Trailblazers is coming up. After a fall season of tennis, volleyball, Men’s and Women’s Soccer, Men’s and Women’s Cross Country and golf, there is a simple focus on only Men’s and Women’s Basketball. Hockey is obviously too expensive for some schools to fund: ice time (paying money to practice without owning a rink), uniforms, ticket cost, etc. Only five MASCAC colleges have a hockey team. Even swimming is a tall order if the school wanted a regulation sized pool, which MCLA doesn’t have. But what about wrestling? As of right now, Bridgewater is the only Massachusetts state college to have a wrestling program. Their team is in the New England Wrestling Association. They compete against school like Johnson and Whales and University of Southern Maine. A wrestling mat costs anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000, and in the long run, it’s a small fee for the team’s one and only expense, save for the uniforms. Bridgewater doesn’t provide their wrestlers with shoes, and most wrestlers would prefer their own headgear than one from the supply closet. Massachusetts high school wrestling is highly competitive. MassWrestling.com has been avidly used by high school coaches and wrestlers for years now. It’s a popular website that reaches out to the rest of New England as well. It’s odd that wrestling dies out after the high school level. Just this past year, wrestling was voted out of the Olympics, though it will be returning for the year 2020, which leaves countries plenty of time to build a team. Perhaps the lack of college wrestling isn’t the choice of the colleges themselves, but the tired athletes. Wrestling is an extremely rough sport on high school athletes. Maybe the lack of state school teams is just because most wrestlers don’t want to compete and put themselves through that anymore. Wrestlers have to cut weight, and sometimes it requires a fast the night before a match. If a wrestler shows up to weigh-in at the 145 class but weighs 145.3, they are not allowed to compete. Although wrestling is a classic sport, maybe it has become a sport for a younger crowd. Just like how Greek music starts off fast, slows down, and speeds up again, sports go through trendy times. Just look at the once ever-so-popular UFC. Maybe wrestling is just going through a rough patch.
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Trailblazer freshman from Belchertown, Mass., Natalie Caney has been in the spotlight this semester. Caney was named by league officers as the 2013 Massachusetts State Collegiate Athletic Conference Rookie of the Year. “My expectations are certainly high,” Caney said. “I always strive to be the best and that will all come with hard work and dedication. I know that next year will be a great year and I will make sure of it with hard work in the off season.” Caney began the season with a hat trick in her first game against Minnesota-Morris, and earned two more against SUNY-IT and Bridgewater State. She has been a force for the Blazers this past fall. Despite the awards, Caney says she’s confident in her success as a team effort. “I just know in the back of my mind that it’s not all about me because so many people have gotten me to where I am now,” she said. “I am just so thankful.” Being from such a small town, Caney can relate to North Adams. Awards are nothing new to the four-year varsity soccer player. As a captain her senior year, Caney wasn’t short in accomplishments. She made the All-State (Massachusetts) Soccer Team in 2011 and 2012, her junior and senior years. Caney also managed to make All-Region (New England) Soccer team in 2012. Caney was selected as the Girls Soccer Player of the year by Northampton’s Daily Hampshire Gazette Newspaper. Success is a word Caney has been familiar with. Caney becomes the first MCLA player since Jessica Tietgens in 2007 to win Rookie of the Year. Her statistics have proven how talented she is. Tallying a record-tying 17
opportunity to play soccer so that was a big plus.” Caney’s determination doesn’t end with the regular season. “I am going to work on every aspect of the game,” Caney said. “Passing, shooting, movement, endurance, technical skills, creativity, just everything. I am going to pretty much dissect every part of my game and fix everything. Even if something is already good I am going to make it better.” Dandurant says she believes Photo Courtesy of MCLA Athletics the future is bright for the Freshman Natalie Caney earns Rookie of the Year. freshman. “In her next goals and two assists with a on her individual success than three years, she is going to have shot percentage of .309 percent. she does herself. Caney says she to learn to deal with being man During the season she received learned from those around her marked, double, or even triple the rookie of the week honors how to act and how to lead when marked,” Dandurant said. “But, to five times. As a freshman, she has it’s the right time. be honest, I am not worried about made a name for herself. Caney “When talking about Natalie, it. Yes, she may get frustrated with sits second on the team by shots everyone talks about her skill and it from time to time, but she will on goal with 31 behind senior Jen her accomplishments, but what never stop and let it affect her. I Ferrari’s 32. people forget to mention is her am beyond excited to see what her A teammate of Caney, senior work ethic,” Dandurant said. future holds. I can only imagine Brianna Danadurant supported Caney says coming to MCLA what a few years under her belt the accomplishments of the made her realize how close of a here will do for her.” young freshman. community this was, and that Caney says next year’s “She still has a great deal to even though this is a small school, expectations might be high, learn, but what makes her a great to her it is exactly what she but she’s looking forward to player is her willingness to do so,” needed. continuing helping the team. Dandurant said. “She will be a “I felt very comfortable with “I have also learned how to make strong force in her later years and the environment,” Caney said. more space for my teammates,” I cannot wait to see it unfold,” “MCLA is a small school and that’s Caney said. “Coach has taught me Caney, grateful for those around exactly what I needed. I knew to play simple and that everything her, says she gives more credit that I would get help whenever doesn’t have to be fancy when it to her teammates and coaches I needed it and I was given the comes to passing.”
Men XC competes in ECAC Championships Jesse Collings Sports Writer
The Men’s Cross Country team competed in ECAC New England Championships on Saturday, finishing 39th overall. The meet was held in Bristol, R.I. and featured 46 schools. Rival Williams College won the meet. Williams runners paced the meet with an average time of 26:02. MCLA was led by senior Anthony Cancilla, who ran the 8,000 meter course in 28:50. He was followed by teammate and fellow senior Peter Mayotte, who finished with a time of 30:10. Sophomore Travis Smith rounded out the top three for MCLA, crossing the line in 31:21. “I was satisfied about my overall performance, but there was one
issue,” Mayotte said. “The first woods loop in the race was really slow. Passing people was very difficult and made my first mile time 6:20.” Mayotte says he ran a first mile time of 5:37 the week beforehand, nearly 40 seconds faster than his recorded time at the championship. He says a tight running path slowed some people down, and made it more difficult for him to run the course in under 29 minutes like he had hoped. Williams College dominated the meet. The top three finishers of the meet all ran for Williams. Junior Cole Townsend was the individual winner, outpacing all runners with a time of 25:43. Sophomore Todd Ford finished just eight seconds behind Townsend, and sophomore
Kieran Scannell finished nine seconds behind Ford. Tufts University junior Marshall Pagano finished 4th with a time of 26:02. St. Joseph’s senior Brian Wersan, finished 5th with a time of 26:07. The meet was dominated by teams from the NESCAC conference. The top five schools in the meet all represented the conference. Williams won the meet the low score of 26. The victory was Williams’ 8th ECAC Championship in the last nine years. Tufts finished a distant second with a score of 75, followed by Amherst College with a score of 84. Colby College (141) and Middlebury College (175) rounded out the top five. Westfield State led all MASCAC
schools at the meet, finishing 12th with a score of 374. Of the MASCAC schools, MCLA finished 4th of five schools, with a total score of 1,143. MCLA will head to the NCAA New England Regionals on Saturday, which will be held at Southern Maine University in Portland, Maine. Mayotte says Cancilla has been a great teammate over the season. Saturday’s race in Maine will be the last time the two compete together. “I plan on doing some damage. It’s my last race of the season and it’s also the last race for my teammate, Anthony Cancilla,” Mayotte said. “He has been a wonderful teammate these last three years I’ve known him.”
Sports
Thursday, November 14, 2013
Beacon.MCLA.edu
Women’s Basketball tips off at Keene James Hunter Sports Writer
With the preseason polls released, Women’s Basketball is selected to finish 7th in the MASCAC. Coming off a tough season, the team plans to outplay the preseason poll position. “The goals of this season are to keep a positive attitude no matter the outcomes, win MASCACs and just have fun day in and day out,” senior captain Danielle Scolpino said. The Women’s Basketball team has brought in eight new freshman to add to it’s four returners: Danielle Scolpino, Kate Chenevert, Sara Hamilton, Tashari Rainwater, and Mariah Brown.
Bringing back only four returners, the focus early in the season has been team chemistry. After losing two key seniors, Lucy Trembley and Johanna Miner, the returners are focusing on getting everyone on the same page, and becoming as team oriented as they were last year. “The most important thing to us this year was team chemistry. We had to make sure that everyone felt like an important part of the team right away, so that when we got on the court, it would be a lot easier to play with and off one another,” Scolpino said. Seniors Danielle Scolpino and Kate Chenevert both say they plan to lead the young team a victorious season. Scolpino averaged 9.1 points, and 2.6 assists per game, last season, shooting 30
percent from beyond the arc. Kate averaged 10 points, five rebounds and two steals per game last year. “For me, the most important thing this year is leading the team by example,” Scolpino said. “With so many newcomers, it’s important to be a good role model on and off the court, and to also be there for anyone whether it has to deal with basketball or just life itself,” “Luckily, our team has already turned into a family,” she added, “and with good team chemistry throughout the whole season, this will help us win games and have fun together.” The Women’s Basketball team will opens its season with a tournament at Keene State this Friday, November 15th against Endicott College at 5 p.m.
Men’s Basketball preview will be in next week’s Beacon.
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Photos by Kayla Degnan/The Beacon
Above, freshman Brayleigh Hanlon scans the court for an open teammate during practice Below, Junior Todd Hunt jumps to shoot a basket during practice.
Photo by Kayla Degnan/The Beacon
The Women’s Basketball team has a scrimmage at practice.
Volleyball team finishes up for the season Schedules Jesse Collings Sports Writers
The volleyball team ended its post-season bout after falling to Bridgewater State in the quarter-finals of the MASCAC tournament Wednesday Nov. 5. Bridgewater played extremely well at home, sweeping the Trailblazers in three straight sets to advance to the semi-finals. The Bears took the first set 25-13, and then followed it up with victories in the next two sets 25-14 and 2516. Bridgewater was led by two young players. Freshman Sydney Bennett led all players with nine
kills. Sophomore Julie Hutchins led all players with six blocks. Trailblazer senior Julia Christian and freshman Sam Anderson each had five kills. Junior Allie Chang led all players with an impressive 15 digs in the loss. MCLA finished the season with a 10-19 record after losing seven of their last eight matches. The Trailblazers graduate two seniors: Julia Christian and Kendra Hobbs. Westfield State defeated the regular season champions Framingham State to take the MASCAC tournament title. With the victory, Westfield moved on to represent the MASCAC
conference in tournament.
the
Nov 15, 2013 Women’s Basketball vs. MCLA @ Keene State 5:00 PM Keene State Tournament Men’s Basketball vs. Dickinson @ At Wesleyan Tournament 8:00 PM
NCAA
Photo by Kayla Degnan/The Beacon
Junior Julia Christian lines up a shot.
Dylan Pereira nabs rookie of the year Chris Oxholm Sports Editor
Freshmen Dylan Pereira of the Men’s Soccer team was awarded the MASCAC Rookie of the Year this season. He tallied 11 goals over the season and started in every conference game. He also shocked the team when he scored six goals in back-to-back games in the beginning of the season. Alongside the Rookie of the Year, fellow freshmen Edward Boateng made the All MASCAC first team and Robert Dalby and Tyler Guzzi made the second team. “It felt really good to earn Rookie of the Year,” Pereira said. “I’m definitely very proud of myself for the accomplishment.” In high school, Pereira played at Ludlow
High and made the All Western Mass 1st team. He was born and raised there. It’s a town with a love for soccer. “Ludlow is near Springfield and it’s a soccer town,” Pereira said. “All we do is soccer. My high school won the State Championship my sophomore and junior year. Starting in the state final my junior year has been the most nerve-racking experience I’ve had in soccer.” Pereira doesn’t come from a large family of athletes or anything out of the ordinary. He and his sister grew up playing soccer together. Even though he’s the older brother, Pereira claims she can still give him a run for his money. “My sister is really good, too, and she only 16 right now,” Pereira said. “She’s always doing things like bragging how she scored more
goals than me.” Since high school, Pereira has gotten used to a different lifestyle. There’s more time between classes to do homework, something he doesn’t have to put off and worry about after practice. Pereira says his first collegiate season was easy to start because of his team. “Hildabrand is a great coach and my parents pushed me real hard to get me where I am now,” Periera said. “But the team gave me such a warm welcoming which settled my nerves and made it easier to jump into the season.” Pereira and the rest of the team are in their winter break now, but they pick up training again in early spring for off-season development.
Nov 16, 2013 Men’s Cross Country at Southern Maine NCAA New England Regionals Women’s Cross Country at Southern Maine NCAA New England Regionals Women’s Basketball vs. TBA @ Keene State tournament Men’s Basketball TBA @ Wesleyan Tournament Nov 19, 2013 Men’s Basketball at Fisher 6:00 PM
MCLA Athletics
Pereira wins rookie of the year.
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Opinion
Thursday, November 14, 2013
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What do you think of Obamacare and its website glitches? “I think the website is a good idea. I believe the glitches have been happening because so many people have been trying to log in but the computers can’t handle the amount of data.” -Aloysius Street, 2015
“Maybe if they had more techoriented people working on it there wouldn’t be so many glitches. Everything is glitchy when it first starts out, though.” -Amanda Olsen, 2014
The Beacon The Beacon is published Thursdays during the academic year and is distributed free to the College community. The Beacon is funded by the Student Government Association, the English/Communications department and from ad revenues. Contact information: News desk number: 413-662-5535 Business number: 413-662-5404 E-mail: Beacon@mcla.edu Web site: beacon.mcla.edu Office: Mark Hopkins Hall, room 111 Mission Statement The Beacon strives to provide timely and accurate news of campus and local events.
“In my opinion, with anything new there will be bugs. Customers and makers should expect glitches. The customers of Obamacare should say what bugs are happening so the makers can fix them. Glitches should be expected, like the new iOS 7.”
“They should have expected the problem. It’s disappointing that the government couldn’t foresee this issue. If they’re going to push a program, they should have been prepared.” -Samantha St. Pierre, 2014
-Franco Lichauco, 2014 “The government should have been prepared for the amount of traffic the website would receive. If it’s a national program, everyone will get it, so the amount of traffic should have been anticipated.”
“The Internet seems to have taken a note from Congress.” -Tabitha Dodd, 2014
Editorials Policy Unsigned editorials that appear on these pages reflect the views of The Beacon’s editorial board. Signed columns and commentaries that appear on these pages reflect the views of the writers. Letters Policy The Beacon welcomes Letters to the Editor. Deadline is noon on Mondays for that week’s newspaper. Letters should be kept to 500 words or less and are subject to editing for grammar and content. The Beacon will not publish anonymous or libelous letters. Letters must be signed by the writer and include a phone number. Letters may be dropped off at the office or e-mailed to Beacon@mcla.edu. Contributions Policy The Beacon accepts stories, photos, and opinion pieces for publication. Submissions should be dropped off at the office by Monday at noon or e-mailed to Beacon@mcla.edu. Advertising Policy The Beacon reserves the right not to publish any advertisement it deems to be libelous, false. or in bad taste.
-Stephanie Perez, 2016
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Devil’s Pulpit
Staff Writers
Devil’s Pulpit is located at Monument Mountain in Great Barrington, Mass. From the College take MA-8 S to U.S. 7 Route 8. Follow U.S.-7 S until you take a right onto East St. Follow East St. 0.1mi and then take a left back onto U.S. 7. This will bring you to Monument Mountain Reservation.
Photographers
Nicholas Arena* Emily Boughton Jesse Collings Gabriel Kogel* Candice Crow Amy Modesti Ryan Flynn* Sam Thomson James Hunter Gabriel Kogel* Design Team Raanan Sarid-Segal Hannah Sterrs Shannen Adamites* Nick Swanson Nick Arena* Jess Gamari* Nicole Ngoon
Photo by Kayla Degnan/The Beacon
“Home sick”
Copy Editors
Avery Finnivan Rachel Fitterman Advisers
Jenifer Augur Gillian Jones Jim Niedbalski
Videographers
Adam Larson Aloysius Street Advertising
Darcie Sosa
*Holds more than one position
Online at: Beacon.MCLA.edu
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Written by Matt Sullivan, Illustrated by Dan Thibodeau, Inked by Sean Kelleher
Thursday, November 14, 2013
Local Events
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Check it out!
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Upcoming events on campus Today, Nov. 14
World Diabetes Day of Awareness Amsler Campus Center 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 3-6 p.m. Good Vibes Yoga Amsler Campus Center 8-9:45 p.m. The Write Stuff Amsler Campus Center 3-5 p.m. With Passion $$ Will Come Murdock Hall Room 218 7-8 p.m.
Skate night Hiphop battle to The intramural department is sponsoring free skating at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Skating Rink. Skate nights will be held on Tuesday nights, starting Saturday, Nov., 19 at 9 p.m.
All students are eligible with their Student ID. A van will be available to all students who need transportation. Its services will be available from 9 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. and will be located on Montana Street between the Townhouses and Campus Center. The van will also provide transportation back to campus after the event at 10:30 p.m. The skate night will include music as well as concessions which will be available for purchase at the rink. For more details please contact Intramural Supervisor Drew Webster via FirstClass.
FINANCIAL AID ANNOUNCEMENT Have you signed up with SALT yet?? Free membership to: * Keep track of your student loans* *Get advice from an expert counselor* *Look for jobs/internships* *Search for scholarships* *Learn how to budget your money* Sign on at www.saltmoney.org today! Any questions? Call the Financial Aid Office at (413)-662-5219 ***************** SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITY STEM Scholarships December 16, 2013 deadline www.asee.org/smart
benefit hunger
Rap battle at The Parlor this Saturday
MCLA Presents! The Chronicles of Rose Branch Gallery 6 p.m. The second installment of the fivepart Serial Puppet Drama by local puppeteer David Lane.
Friday, Nov. 15
Alternative Spring Break Meeting Amsler Campus Center 10-11 a.m. Education Club Bake Sale Amsler Campus Center 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Alternative Spring Break Meeting Amsler Campus Center 4-5 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 16
Call Of Duty Tournament Amsler Campus Center 2-6 p.m.
Photo by Jess Gamari/The Beacon
Fudg E. Nuggitz and Philosophical Phil will emcee on Saturday. Head over to The Parlor Café this Saturday night at 8 p.m. and check out “Hiphop 4 Canned Food,” a hiphop performance and rap battle between MCLA alumni Paradox (Stu Fransman) and local talent TeknickleFlow (Max Braun) as well as followup performances by the battle artists. The event will be hosted by emcees Philosophical G (Phil Gauthier) and Fudg E. Nuggitz (Chris Oxholm).
They will be collecting canned goods for the upcoming Hunger Banquet on Saturday, Nov. 21. The Parlor Cafe provides great atmosphere with good food and drinks. Alcohol is available for customers 21 and older. “It’s going to be a fun night! Paradox and TechnickleFlow have had a friendly feud for a few years now,” Nuggitz said. “It’ll be good to see them finally settle in such a good vibe’d environment.”
Hunger Banquet on Nov. 21 The Hunger Banquet will be held on Nov. 21 from 6-8 p.m. in Murdock 218. The purpose of this event is to educate attendees about global and national social inequalities, as well as solutions to these inequalities, through skits, interactive exercises, stories, and visual and theatrical performances. Students from the following classes will serve as peer
educators: Susan Birns’s SOWK 355 Community Organization, Karen Cardozo’s IDST 350 Rethinking the Third World and WMST 201 Introduction to Women’s Studies, Sumi Colligan’s ANTH 370 Culture, Power, and Protest, Rita Nnodim’s IDST 150 Introduction to Cross-cultural and Social Justice Studies, and Jennifer Zoltanski’s SOCI 201 Social Problems.
Nos Cultura Potluck Venable Gym 7-9 p.m. Lights Out Party Amsler Campus Center Sat. 11 p.m.-Sun. 2 a.m.
Tuesday, Nov. 19
Vadnais Lecture: Marion Stoddart MCLA Murdock Hall, Sammer Dennis (Room 218) 7 p.m.
Wednesday, Nov. 20
Campus Center Takeover The Market Place int he AmslerCampus Center 9 p.m. - midnight Come see the Campus Center get taken over by the best clubs and organizations! Waffle Wednesday Marketplace - Amsler Campus Center 9 p.m.
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Thursday, November 14, 2013
Photo Essay
The Inter Greek Council along with Students for Sensible Drug Policy and Spires host an open mic night which has many students in attendence.
Beacon.MCLA.edu
Bob Leverett, the tour guide on the trip, talks about the Yellow Birch tree.
Elders Grove is located in Deerfield, Mass. and can be found in the Mohawk Trail State Forest.
Elders Grove Photos by Kayla Degnan
This Red Oak is 148 years old. Hemlock trees are typically found deep in the woods and have historically been used to make horse stall beams and barn boards. Hemlock trees are also known as hemlock spruce, weeping spruce, spruce pine, and tanbark.
This White Pine is about 175-185 years old and is the second tallest of its kind in New England.
These are the concentric circles of a White Ash, used to determine the age of a tree.
American Beech trees have smooth bark and keep their brown leaves for a long time during the winter months.