Student Newspaper of Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts North Adams, Mass.
The Beacon
For more content, visit online at: Beacon.MCLA.edu Volume 79 ◆ Issue 9
Th u r s d ay, N o v e m b e r 1 3 , 2 0 1 4
Saying goodbye to President Grant
on page 6
Overnight parking ban takes effect Ban restricts where and when visitors and students are allowed to park By Idalis Foster Staff Writer
Photo courtesy the president’s office
Senator Ben Downing and President Mary Grant admire a piece of artwork in the Feigenbaum Center for Science and Innovation.
Student writers race to complete novels By Juanita Doss
is still trying to write a novel by Staff Writer Nov. 30. “For me, it’s not really about Sophomore Emily Meidenbauer winning the competition; fell in love with writing when it’s about being motivated to she was handed a composition write and trying to accomplish notebook in third grade. She something just for me,” she said. wrote for thirty minutes to O’Neill’s inspiration comes from an hour daily and from that, the characters she creates. She Meidenbauer knew she wanted to imagines a character, and then be a writer. tries to figure out a story to put Five years ago she looked for a them into. way to display her writing and “Sometimes I dream people up while roaming the internet she came across the National Novel and then have no idea what to do Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) with them, so I just try different website; this sparked her novel plots until something sticks,” she writing journey. Every year said. Meidenbauer entered the contest Junior Meg Gugarty, vice president of the Writers’ Guild, said she has been writing year-round for as long as she can remember. Although, she too isn’t officially writing for NaNoWriMo. “I try to challenge myself to at least try to write a bit every day,” she said. “The word count isn’t as important to me, just the writing.” Gugarty finished a novel during high school, but she never hit 50,000 words in a month. She found her inspiration in Photo by Agnella Gross/The Beacon the books she enjoyed during Left to right: Andrew Araiza ‘18, Virginia Graves ‘16, and Diana her childhood. Video games and Faukner ‘17 attend a Writer’s Guild workshop about NaNoWriMo. movies also kept her writing. audience, while her other two she was victorious. “I guess in a way it was a little bit It’s that time of year again when Dear Elliot and Love, Brooke escapism, a little bit just having aspiring novelists sit at their audience focuses on teenagers 15 an active imagination,” she said. laptops, fingers hammering at a and up. “I don’t know how long I’ve Caitlin O’Neill, president of the been writing, exactly, but I can’t keyboard, in hopes of finishing their novel by the end of Writers’ Guild, isn’t participating imagine life without it now.” in NaNoWriMo. However, she November.
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NaNoWriMo is an international online contest hosted by nanowrimo.org that takes place this month. Anyone can enter, and each participant has thirty days to complete a novel of 50,000 words. One of the various prizes for winners is two free paperback copies of their finished book. “It was definitely a great accomplishment for me,” Meidenbauer said. “I now have sold between 1,500 and 2,000 books.” Her books are available on the Barnes and Nobles website. Her first two published books, Right Where My Heart Should Be and A Little Different were written for a middle school
News
The annual winter parking ban is back in effect, having begun on November 1 and remaining until April 30 at the latest. With this ban, parking overnight is going to be a difficult task for visitors of North Adams. Since the Berkshire area tends to get heavy amounts of snow, this ban comes of no surprise to members of the community. It has been in place for years, according to Joseph Charon, Director of Public Safety. “The overnight parking ban is a public safety measure designed to prevent vehicles from parking on city streets and impeding the snow removal process during winter storms,” said Charon. Some students are concerned about the parking availability for overnight guests who may want to park closer to where they are staying, especially since certain lots are off limits. Guests are only allowed to park in the Hoosac Lot or the Brewer Perkins Lot, while closer lots are off limits. The commuter lot is only for daytime parking. At this time, visitors are still allowed to park on campus, but only on weekends (Friday through Saturday) and holidays preceding weekends. Being unable to park on campus during the week and with the overnight parking ban in place, visitors are left without any real options of places to park safely. Charon emphasized the priority of the parking regulations for the campus community. “Parking on campus is designed to, first and foremost, accommodate the campus community,” said Charon. “Guests may park on campus in accordance with campus parking regulations.” The campus opinion on lack of availability due to the parking ban is varied; some students see its purpose and support it fully while others are still confused about which parking spots are off limits. “The parking ban is necessary,” said junior Charles Marquis. “During the winter, plows need to make snow banks and cars need room on the road.”
Arts & Entertainment
Sports
Social media event to promote kindess on campus
Polish Poet Ewa Chrusciel to be second poet-in-residence
Men’s Soccer loses in MASCAC playoffs
Page 3
Page 4
Page 8
In terms of parking regulations and passes, Marquis did express that the lottery system for student parking passes could be replaced with a more efficient system, but when it comes to guest parking passes he has not had any issue with getting them in the past. Another student, sophomore Giza Toshkhujaeva, has had some trouble in the past due to the winter overnight parking ban. “Last year alone I got about seven or more parking tickets just for parking overnight,” said Toshkhujaeva. “I hated the winter
Beacon file photo
Harsh road conditions and subsequent plowing throughout winter necessitate the overnight parking ban, according to Joseph Charon, Director of Public Safety. parking rules because I was not allowed to park on the street so I would get more tickets.” Toshkhujaeva, a commuter student, expressed confusion about the winter parking rules in regards to parking around campus. “Right now I park in a different spot and have not received any tickets,” said Toshkhujaeva. “But I don’t know about how the winter rules apply to the parking next to the townhouses.” According to Charon, the winter overnight parking ban applies to all streets in North Adams and is enforced by the North Adams Police department. Ticketing and towing of cars found to be in violation is expected to begin in mid-November once there has been a leeway period for the community to begin abiding by the ban.
News Arts & Entertainment Sports Campus Opinion Local Events Photo Essay
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Campus News
Thursday, November 13, 2014
Weekend Weather
SGA funds STAGE auction
Thursday, November 13
By Nick Swanson Senior News Editor
Mostly Cloudy High: 45° Low: 28° Prec. Chance: 0%
Friday, November 14
Partly Cloudy High: 38° Low: 24° Prec. Chance: 10%
Saturday, November 15
Sunny High: 35° Low: 24° Prec. Chance: 0%
The Student Government Association (SGA) approved the supplemental budget request from Students Taking Action for Gender Equality (STAGE) for their first leadership auction. The $275 from the supplemental budget is to fund a selection of food for the event, which will be a black and white tie affair, according to STAGE’s president Carissa Sacherski. “STAGE thinks this is a fun idea,” Sacherski said. “It is not for dating, we want people to take it seriously, but is a way for you to meet and talk to other clubs.” Sacherski said during the event club members will read their bio and describe their positions on campus that could be helpful to other students. She explained when an individual is ‘bought’ or raffled off that person is to give a trade back to the winner. For example, someone with a poetry background can teach their “buyer” how to
write and analyze three sonnets. According to Sacherski, the club will buy the food items from Price Chopper in order to feed an estimated 40 people. She said the club first went to Aramark catering, which is much more expensive. They soon realized with the money that was available more food would come from Price Chopper than Aramark. “Our plan is to invite and have all clubs, sports teams, and the Inter Greek Council to have representatives from their organizations at the leadership auction,” Sacherski said. While presenting STAGE’s request Sacherski asked SGA members to take part in the auction the day of the event if available. “This is an opportunity for clubs to exchange ideas and thoughts to raise money for a great cause,” Sacherski said. Money raised for the event is being donated to the Elizabeth Freeman Center (EFC) in North Adams, Mass. According to the EFC’s Web site, since 1974 the center has provided leadership and services to address domestic and sexual violence in Berkshire County. Every day, 24 hours a day, EFC confronts the life-and-death issues faced by victims of battering and sexual assault. According to the Web site, $500 funds a week of violence prevention education with 50 middle school students and $1500 funds a month’s worth of after-hours
coverage for our 24-hour, 7 daya-week hotline. The leadership auction will take place in Murdock 218 on Nov. 22.
According to a RAINN.org article, President Barack Obama created the It’s On Us campaign to reduce rape on college campuses. Through Itsonus.org individuals can sign the pledge against sexual assault. SGA president Brendan Peltier asked coordinators of the ALANA club council and Susan B. Anthony Women’s Center to team up for the cause. Together the organizations created a week-long event that will start on Monday, Feb. 9. Each day a different group will organize an educational or informative section that will be available for students on campus. “Many flyers and big banners will be made to publicize for the campaign,” Peltier said. “Hopefully this will help with stopping sexual assault on women and men.”
Bemma Adwetewa-Badu should be contacted. “Even if the problem is being solved we should have an (SGA) representative go to public safety meetings, making sure we are getting results on our end,” senatorat-large Colby Harvish suggested. He said it is not just SGA property but also the colleges, if the comment was slander it should result with consequences. “I don’t think SGA should be more involved then we already are,” senator-at-large Timothy Williams said. “If you see something, say something.” SGA decided to not progress with the issue unless it reoccurs. “The option is out there for that person to contact me if there are more issues with vandalism,” Adwetewa-Badu said. “I sent out an email and unless they contact me for help we should let public safety handle it.” Prior meetings indicate public safety will create signs on campus that warn others the consequences of vandalizing school property.
Vandalism in the mailroom
Reading day dilemma
The SGA discussed a recent incident of vandalism in the campus mailroom wherein an offensive message was written on one of the club posters along the wall. According to Peltier, Public Safety is currently handling the issue, and if the problem persists, coordinating vice president Ama
According to Peltier, reading day is an all academic day and that will remain the purpose of reading day. He said that administration and the student development office came to a compromise on reading day. Now only one or two SGA supported student events can be scheduled on that day.
Stop sexual assault campaign
Bowman construction worker injured in fall By Nick Arena
Multimedia Editor An unidetified construction worker was injured in a fall from the roof of Bowman Hall to one of the structure’s interior stairwells. According to a brief from James Stakenas, vice president of Administration and Finance, the worker fell on Monday shortly after 1 p.m. He was taken to Albany Medical Center and his condition was
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unknown, according to the brief. Construction was halted for the rest of the day as representatives from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) were called in to investigate the incident. Representatives from Eastern General Contractors, Inc. and the Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance (DCAMM) were also present on site, the brief said. Stakenas added that updates will when the information is available.
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Campus News
Thursday, November 13, 2014
Beacon.MCLA.edu
Townhouse e-board creates kindness movement
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“Do it for the Kind” event celebrates World Kindness day by students recording acts of kindness on social media app Vine By Isabel McKenzie Staff Writer
Today, the Flagg Townhouse Advisory board will promote acts of kindness across campus with their “Do it for the Kind” event. Do-gooders will film themselves participating in acts of kindness and post it on the popular video app Vine. The idea for the event came during an E-board retreat, when the group was tasked with making an event around a day of kindness. The event has been planned around the backdrop of World Kindness Day, which also happens to be today. “The whole point is to get people to really show their kindness, and to bring it out of them,’’ Brandon Roy, vicepresident of the E-board, said. “Most of the time people are just running through their day, not really looking at the person next to them. This is something to be like ‘hey, let’s be a little more kind today, let’s be more aware of it’.” To participate in the event, one must tag the Vine as #MCLA2kind14. This hashtag allows the videos to be
tracked and watched later. Videos must be uploaded by 9 pm. Participants and anyone interested in the videos may come to the greenhouse at 9 pm to review them and vote for their favorite. Likes and views on the vine before the event and the cumulative vote will determine a winner, who will receive a prize. “I’m looking forward to seeing people talking about the event and showing this great energy and positivity throughout the day,” Roy said.
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This is something to be like ‘hey, let’s be a little more kind today, let’s be more aware of it.’”
Brandon Roy, ‘16, vice president of Flagg Townhouse executive board
Vargas expected to spark activism on immigration in policy lecture By Nick Swanson Senior News Editor
Tonight, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Jose Antonio Vargas will present the Michael S. and Kitty Dukakis Public Policy Lecture at 7 p.m. The event will take place in the Church Street Center auditorium. Admission is free and open to the public. “Jose Antonio Vargas is both compassionate and reasonable, while also respecting the complexities of the political situation. He brings it all together in a really easily accessible way that the students, faculty, and community will enjoy,” Professor of Political Science James Benjamin Taylor said. Prior to the lecture there will be a student conversation session in the bottom level of the Church Street Center in the social hall from 2:30 until 3:30 p.m. “If you are a student with a story to tell or any interest in immigration or how to become an activist in any issue you care about, I’m sure that’s something he wants to know about,” Taylor said. Vargas has been published in the New Yorker, Huffington Post, Washington Post, and New York Times Magazine. The Ruth Proud Charitable Trust funds the spring and fall public policy lectures. When these first
originated, the goal was to focus on the practical implications of policy and activism. According to Taylor, they demonstrate to students and the wider community how bringing [public] policy to MCLA and North Adams makes us a part of that conversation. “The politics of immigration are very complex,” Taylor said, “and it’s great to have someone like Vargas come to campus to make that very complex case.” Vargas will talk about immigra-
Photo from MCLA website
Pulitzer Prize-wining journalist Jose Antonio Vargas will speak tonight about the DREAM Act and other public policy issues. tion, immigrant communities, and people that possibly live in the shadows of documentation in the Berkshires and all of Mas-
sachusetts. Vargas supports the Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors, or DREAM Act. The 2013 DREAM Act Web site says there have been various versions of the original legislation, which was proposed to provide millions of immigrant children who graduated from U.S. high schools the opportunity to receive U.S. residency. The DREAM Act is expected to provide immigration benefits to those who arrived in the United States as children, before the age of 16, and have been residing in the U.S. continuously for at least five years prior to the Bill being enacted into Law. “Getting to meet, talk, and be able to hear from Jose Antonio Vargas is an immeasurably beneficial opportunity for thinking about your own life, career, and educational choices,” Taylor said. More information on Vargas can be viewed through his documentary titled, “Documented: a film by an undocumented American.” The film was released in 2013. Vargas is also the founder of Defineamerican.com, a platform created through Public Interest Projects with a goal to fix the immigration system. The site accepts donations in order to initiate bigger conversation on the problems within immigration.
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Photo from theworldkindnessmovement.org World Kindness Movement (WKM) began in 1997 in Tokyo and encourages individuals of other nations to create their own kindness movemnts, similar to “Do it for the Kind.” According to About.com, Vine is a video-sharing app designed for users to film and share six-second videos. A compatible iOS or Android smartphone and a free Vine or Twitter account are needed to use the app. Abby Lucas, treasurer of the E-board, said that the title of the event stemmed from a popular slogan users refer to on the Vine app: “Do it for the Vine”. “I think this is a pretty friendly campus in general, and this event is something to accent that whole vibe,” Abby Torrey, president of the E-board, said.
Cycon works with coffee farmers and improves their communities By Makayla-Courtney McGeeney
“Every pound we buy is driving the farmers into poverty because companies don’t care about who Editor-in-Chief produces the coffee,” he said. “The “Charity is not social change, stock market rewards companies it’s maintenance,” Dean’s Beans for their increased profits.” In 10 years, 90 percent of coffee founder Dean Cycon said. “Follow your passion, then plunge in.” crops in Uganda will disappear Cycon expressed the importance due to global warming and rust. of the environment and intercon- Rust is a fungus that affects coffee nectivity between countries and crops and spreads rapidly by surcompanies at the Elizabeth and face transfer. Rust is seriously detrimental Lawrence Vadnais Environmental Issues Lecture Series last Wednes- to farmers because coffee growers don’t have a 401k plan to fall day. He announced that there is talk back on. The rust ruins the crop, of working with the Women’s leaving growers to start over and Soccer team to collaborate with replant; such a process could take girl’s education in Pakistan. He three to five years without pay, according to Cycon. explained that “Paying a farmer soccer balls are more money will made in that not make their country while lives better, but educational opbuying the coffee portunity lies at higher, more reelsewhere. alistic price, could Recently, Cyhelp,” he said. con initiated Dean’s Beans’ apa program in proach for success Ethiopia to while maintaining make cervical Photo by Osakpolo Igiede/The Beacon fair trade includes cancer treatCycon addressesdeveloping proment more ef-Dean students about the coffeegrams to help the ficient. In the in past, patientsworld culture during thecommunities and Elizabethwhich coffee crops would make oneLawernce trip for detec-Vadnais Lecture Series lastexist. “We keep 50 pertion, wait a weekWednesday. cent of the profit, or two to hear results, and then never make the give 25 percent to our employees, second trip back due to inconve- and give the other 25 percent to the coffee farmers,” he said. “We nience, according to Cycon. “I really liked how he worked work directly with the communiwith so many different coun- ties and have conversations about tries,” junior Katie Barbeau said. what needs to be improved in “They’re all connected with how their lives.” Alum Chris Kilfoyle believes the the farmers learned skills from lecture series is running exactly each other.” Dean’s Beans is a 21-year-old fair how it should representing a protrade, 100 percent organic coffee fessors initiative a long time ago company with no advertising or at the college. “It is very exciting what he’s domarketing. “I wanted to model something ing in the spirit of Larry Vadnais,” that respects the ecology of the said Kilfoyle. “In 1973, the colworld, that would have a bigger lege owned a farm and he taught impact,” he said. “I’m in it for the students how to work with horses and blacksmith skills.” influence.” In the future, Cycon plans to Coffee is valued at .65 cents per pound before processing, and revisit the spice islands of Indofarmers receive 10 percent of that, nesia, the birthplace of globalization, to establish fair trade. Cycon said.
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Thursday, November 13, 2014
Arts & Entertainment
Polish poet and translator to read Ewa Chrusciel, author of “Contraband of Hoopoe,” will visit the College
By Rachel Fitterman
Arts & Entertainment Editor Acclaimed poet and Polish translator Ewa Chrusciel will hold a reading on Monday, Nov. 17, sponsored by the English/Communications department. Chrusciel, who has written in both English and Polish and translated the works of Jack London and Joseph Conrad, will read and discuss her work at 7 p.m. in Gallery 51. “I am always looking forward to [a reading,]” she said. “I look forward to human encounters. Each reading is an event when the unexpected happens.” Chrusciel, who grew up in the Communist Regime of the USSR, began writing poetry in high school. “[The poetry] felt like an inner voice which wanted to get out of me, or maybe a little animal which desired to jump out of me. It was the desire to express the ineffable,” she said. Polish poets Czesław Miłosz , Zbigniew Herbert, Adam Zagajewski, and Ryszard Krynicki were some of her main influences at the time, as they spoke out against the mainstream media of the Communist party. “These poets showed me that poetry is not a playground,” Chrusciel said. “On the contrary, it has to be like bread for the hungry.” Chrusciel is also an associate professor at Colby-Sawyer College, and stated that she tries to
Photo by Bożena Boba Dyga/Courtesy of Ewa Chrusciel
Poet and translator Eva Chrusciel surveys her work. Chrusciel will read from her new book “Contraband of Hoopoe,” as well as other pieces, on Monday. expose her students to as many different forms of creative writing as possible, citing villanelles, sonnets, free verse, prose poems, and short stories as some of the examples. Her students practice syllabic and accentual poetry to become familiar with the ins and outs of language.
“I want my students to fall in love with words and images and poetry. I want them to get away from the clichés, or at least know how to use them to their advantage,” she said. Chrusciel added that her advice to students who write poetry would be to read as much as pos-
sible. “When you write, try to let go of your agenda for a poem and come to contact with the subject of the poem. Let the poem write you,” she said. The revision process is also important in creating her poetry. “I tend to revise, especially my poems in English. I also bring them to workshops with other authors and take their feedback into account,” Chrusciel said. Chrusciel is the author of the Polish works “Furkot” and “Sopilki,” as well as the English “Strata,” which won the International Book Awards contest in 2009. Her work has appeared in “Jubilat,” “Boston Review,” “Colorado Review,” and “Spoon River Review,” among other print magazines. Her latest work, “Contraband of Hoopoe,” which was published in October, is written in prose poetry, but Chrusciel also investigates different poetry forms. “My writing in Polish was always concsise, and devoid of any decorations. Writing in English became an experiment,” she said. “In English I started to write in prose poetry form. But I have been always attracted to the poetics of omission, gaps, and silence. Sometimes that happens through a lot of words, and sometimes the poem expresses itself through a minimal number of words. Whether through words or no words, it is the attempt to storm the walls of silence.”
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DON’T MISS
The Inter Greek Council/ Students for Sensible Drug Policy/ SPIRES
Open Mic Night Wednesday Nov. 19 7 p.m. Murdock Room 218
Celebrating Sun Ra
Photo by Agnella Gross/The Beacon
Craig Harris (left) conducts the Darmouth Barbary Coast Big Band during their tribute to jazz legend Sun Ra on Saturday, Nov. 8 in the Church Street Center.
Thursday, November 13, 2014
Arts & Entertainment
Beacon.MCLA.edu
Yorick opens ‘A Winter’s Tale’ By Christopher Johnson Arts & Entertainment Writer
The actors came on stage and action began immediately. There is a lot of energy in the cast of Yorick’s production of “The Winter’s Tale.” The actors’ interactions around the stage progress in a swirling motion that is carefully choreographed, but holds a sense of spontaneity and improvisation, such as when the character Time spins around the stage space and interacts with the audience. The play begins with two old friends, Polixenes (Cory Flood) and Leontes (Sean Mahoney), reconnecting. After spending several months with Leontes, Polixenes deems it time to return home, but Leontes tries to convince him to stay. When that fails, he asks his wife, Queen Hermione (Kelli Furney), to persuade him. When Polixenes finally does stay, Leontes fears that there was an affair between them and his now-pregnant wife is carrying an illegitimate child. Leontes orders
Camillo, a Sicilian lord, to poison Polixenes but Camillo does not and instead warns Polixenes; together they escape to Bohemia, where Polixenes is king. To invigorate the old Shakespearean play, the actors bring varied talents that interconnect to create an appropriate attitude for the play: at once comical and tragic. The score creates ambiance and both heightens and calms the emotions in the scene previous to the entr’acte music. Director Jake Bonenfant has chosen a great look for this play, especially evident in some costumes from its second half, as well as a very memorable moment when the famous “exit, pursued by bear” direction occurs. Bonenfant has his actors moving around constantly, forming intricate positions on the stage, even aside from the poses in the dance sequences. Mahoney’s performance as Leontes is a standout, and the part of Paulina (Stephanie Fascano), a noblewoman of Sicilia, is also
played particularly well and with a great amount of furvor. The way the character chafes against Leontes is well-expressed and resounding. Overall, the passions demonstrated throughout the play push it toward a greater standing and provide depth amongst all the comedic and felicitous aspects of the play. Seeing the play again reminds one of how abrupt it is and how well Bonenfant has taken this quality of one of the problem plays into consideration. It is possible to go mad trying to interpret the reason for Leontes’s jealousy and rage, but it is more rewarding to experience the individual reaction and fury of each character as they arise fiercely from their prior state and become transformed. The play opens tomorrow at 8 p.m. and continues through Saturday with a show at 2 p.m. as well as 8 p.m. in the Church Street Center Social Hall. Yorick recommends that people wishing to attend reserve tickets at yorick@ mcla.edu.
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Beacon file photo
The ‘Winter’s Tale’ cast (from left to right): Mallory Schettine, Sean Mahoney, Kate Rowell, Mitch Chapman, Julie Castagna, Kelli Furney, and Luke Thompson wait to begin staging.
Gallery 107 gives students Redmayne outhands-on experience shines ‘Theory’ DownStreet Art puts arts management students to work By Nicole L’Etoile
Arts & Entertainment Writer The College owns many different art galleries, one of which is Gallery 107, located at 107 Main Street. During DownStreet Art, a program that runs from the summer through October, these galleries feature rotating exhibits. Junior Kristina Alexander was the Associate Gallery Manager for Gallery 107 this past summer. Students Sarah Teft and Brianna McDermott were also Associate Gallery Managers for Gallery 51 and Concourse Discourse Gallery, respectively. The students were chosen by Professor Jonathan Secor. “We were responsible for creating marketing materials, contracts, and transporting art,” said Alexander. “One of the most difficult things about working in Gallery 107 was tearing the whole thing apart from top to bottom and slowly rebuilding it to make it look sophisticated and clean.” The program trained these students to be associate gallery managers for Berkshire Cultural Resource Center (BCRC) for DownStreet Art. Three separate exhibits rotated through Gallery 107 during the summer. They exemplified vastly different art forms. “My favorite exhibit to install was “A Mermaid and Three Heads of Cabbage,” a fifteen person group show of recent alum students from the Vermont College of Fine Arts with their MFA in Visual Arts,” said Alexander. “This
Photo courtesy of Kristina Alexander
Alexander (front row, far right) outside the gallery with artists from the group exhibit“A Mermaid and Three Heads of Cabbage.” show was very diverse and very Art is to revitalize the economy interesting to be a part of.” of downtown North Adams, with Being Associate Gallery Man- the hopes that these galleries will agers was a full time, paid job for become new small businesses these students. They had the op- in the community, and a place portunity to learn a lot about their for members of the community field of study and gain experience to educate themselves and learn and training in the field. about the culture of art. “Over the summer, I met amazWhile Gallery 107 and Coning and talented artists and had course Discourse Gallery are not the most life-changing experience open year-round, Gallery 51 is, working as a gallery manager,” Al- and continuously has rotating exexander said. hibits for both students and the The purpose of DownStreet community to enjoy.
Tribune News Service
“The Theory of Everything” is a rather dreary biography of the renowned physicist Stephen Hawking, one of the most intelligent humans alive. And yet the wonderful character actor Eddie Redmayne plays the role so vividly that the film’s shortcomings stop mattering. His turn is amusingly playful and emotionally touching. The picture follows Hawking from the promise of his youth to the seemingly insurmountable challenge of his middle age. It takes us through his beginning as a Cambridge University physics prodigy, through his crippling motor neuron disorder, through his marriage to fellow student Jane White (Felicity Jones) and the births of their three children. Throughout, it’s Redmayne’s intense performance that is the story’s central pull. There is fervor in his every moment on-screen, even as Hawking’s mobility and speech fail. The more limited Hawking’s movement and language become, the more Redmayne communicates with an insightful glance. Even at the opening, Redmayne makes his physical gestures expressive. The first moment we see the 20-year-old, he’s bike racing a friend along the streets to school. Hawking looks a little wobbly, but his expression is joyful. He keeps glancing back over his shoulder, though that might steer him into a crash. He just wants to be sure he’s beating his buddy. Redmayne, who dieted to starvation to play the scrawny young student, has a lot of fun in his early scenes. He grins as the cox-
swain of the college rowing team, kids his pals, flirts with the nicest girl at a 1960s get together. His Hawking is a lively, popular, adventurous type. A bit absentminded about lab reports for his physics courses, he’s smart and creative enough to deliver lastminute submissions of uncanny brilliance. What he is unaware of is that his pattern of tripping and clumsiness is serious. Doctors discover his neurological disease and warn that he’ll be dead in two years. It’s there that Jane White rescues him. She becomes Jane Hawking, giving him something special to live for. Unluckily, the story is often sluggish and stolid. Jane Hawking’s memoir, “Traveling to Infinity: My Life With Stephen,” is the film’s primary source, which gives her a leading role in the saga. It could be the experience of a triumphant genius who outlived all the doctors’ predictions. Instead, it is a generic Harlequin romance. The marriage does not last forever. The film makes the pair’s separation more important than Hawking’s profound theories. And it’s all written with reserved British civility. There’s not much surging drama for Jones to act out. Jane’s anger and bitterness at Hawking’s infidelity is downplayed, stiff-upper-lip style. Similarly, her attraction to the church choirmaster she eventually married is admitted but not explored. Redmayne’s empathetic performance is the movie’s deepest exploration of Hawking’s amazing personality. It’s also the best reason for seeing it.
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President Grant
Thursday, November13, 2014
Beacon.MCLA.edu
Farewell to President Grant
Mary K. Grant, 11th president and college alumna, was elected chancellor of the University of North Carolina Asheville in August and will spend her last day on campus Nov. 19. Grant is the first alumna of the college to serve as its president and has made many accomplishments during her time here. Grant graduated from North Adams State College in 1983 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology, and then received a master’s degree in public affairs from UMass Boston. She later received her Ph.D. in social policy from the Heller School at Brandeis University. Grant has a passion for higher education, community service and civic engagement. She has received the 2014 MCLA Distinguished Alumnus Award, Photo courtesy of the president’s office President Grant shares a laugh with her husband, Jim Canavan, the 2014 New England Board of Higher Education’s (NEBHE) Masat the launching of the Sowing Seeds campaign in 2011.
sachusetts National Network of Women Leaders Lifetime Achievement Award and the 2011 Francis H. Hayden award from the Berkshire Chamber of Commerce. Grant serves on the board of several organizations including Campus Compact, MassINC, Norman Rockwell Museum and University of Massachusetts Boston Board of Visitors, among others. Additionally, Williams College awarded Grant with an honorary degree in 2012. In honor of Grant’s departure, Editor-in-Chief Makayla-Courtney McGeeney put together a question and answer about the President’s likes, dislikes, life lessons and her experiences with MCLA. The Beacon staff thanks President Grant for her long-time leadership and commitment to the students, faculty, staff and the mission of the institution.
Things you may not know about Mary Grant... A Q&A with the president
Beacon: When you were little, what did you want to grow up to be? PMG: I think maybe a park ranger because I loved the outdoors so much, I was always outside playing. Or, maybe a wilderness guide. I thought the work would be exciting. As little girls we all thought we would be a teacher because we played school, but I think more so a park ranger. Beacon: What country have you always wanted to visit? Why? PMG: I would love to get to Spain because of the food, the history, architecture and overall city progression and their connection with the states. The culture is so rich, and I’d love to experience that. Beacon: Did you play any sports in High School or College? PMG: During my time, girls really didn’t participate in sports yet because Title IX wasn’t apparent. I always appreciated athletics and I’m a fan of baseball; I’ve always owned a glove and still do today. During the summers, as a kid, we would
Beacon: How was your student experience at MCLA? PMG: It was great. I really made connections Beacon: What’s the most important life lesson with the faculty that I held through graduate that you’ve learned? school. I was involved in the food co-op and also PMG: Change happens. Be in the moment. Ap- had a work study job on campus in the sociology preciate where you are in life and how you got department. I also loved the area for skiing and there and tuck that memory away. Sometimes we hiking. It was a great experience that I really aplearn that the hard way. preciate. play baseball in the parks or street basketball, but in college I was a part of the Outdoors Club.
Beacon: What is your favorite band or genre of music? PMG: I’d have to say Mavis Staples (an American rythym and blues gospel singer). I think she’s so cool, at her age she’s still rockin. And, of course I’d have to say T-bone daddy.
Beacon: What will you miss most about North Adams? PMG: Good conversation and coffee. The other day I was in Brew-ha-ha to grab a coffee on my way in and I just loved how I ended up in conversation with people unintentionally.
Beacon: What is your favorite food? PMG: Probably pizza, with hot tomatoes and fresh basil. It just reminds me of summer.
Beacon: Could you have imagined being president of MCLA after you graduated from here? PMG: Honestly, I did not. I graduated with a sociology degree and planned to be a social worker. Once I got to graduate school, my plans changed.
Beacon: What is something you’re afraid of? PMG: Big creepy ole spiders. I don’t mind the little guys, but I’m not happy with the big furry -Continued on page 7 ones.
Photo courtesy of the president’s office
President Grant talks with Hardman Journalist Lecturer Jeff Corwin of Animal Planet in the fall of 2013.
Beacon file photo
From left, President Mary Grant, State Rep Gailanne Cariddi, and Governor Deval Patrick at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Feigenbaum Center for Science and Innovation in 2011.
President Grant
Thursday, November 13, 2014
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“Get excited, plan, change direction” Grant offers advice for students
Beacon: What makes MCLA unique? PMG: It really is the connectedness the campus has between the community and faculty and how students know each other. They engage with what their learning and solve problems and work collectively. It’s in the college’s DNA. We’re connected. Beacon: What advice can you leave for the new freshmen embarking on their college career? PMG: Use your time well because it will go by fast, it really does. Develop a plan and recognize that plans change. Don’t make a plan on day one, but realize what your path is. Try new things. Where would you get to? Like how there are countries I still wish to visit. Build relationships and get to know one another. Make your experience count, do the work, exercise skills
“
President Grant has a passion for the college and cares about the systems within the college. Her shared vision is only going to help us and make us want more for MCLA.”
Celia Norcross, director of Student Development
and have fun. Getting up is the start of the day, not the plan. This is a special time in your life and everything will work out. Find something to get excited about. Let people know you care about them and love them because we often take that for granted. Cut each other some slack because life can change in an instant. Stay curious. Do what you love, whether it be singing or taking an interesting class. Connect with people in a real way. Shut off the machines and engage in conversations. Get off campus once in a while and explore the area. Beacon: What advice can you give to the soon to be graduates? PMG: Don’t worry. You are allowed to take a different path. Stay in touch with people and don’t worry. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Trust yourself. It’s okay to change direction. Use your experiences as a learning opportunity. Be patient. If you really want to drive across the country, then do it.
“
I am very fortunate. Most people who have a role model never get to meet that individual. I have the amazing fortune to work with, and be mentored by my role model. I look up to President Grant as a leader, an innovator and someone who truly cares about education policy. I get to say everyday that i work directly with someone I look up to and consider to be a hero and role
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In her time at MCLA, Mary has not only positively impacted this college but has had significant impact on the entire City of North Adams and our greater community. She has played a significant role in initiatives which have tremendously benefitted our local school systems model.” and fostered economic development and growth in the City and the region through her extensive community involvement. Personally, Mary has been an Brendan Peltier, ‘15, Student invaluable resource and mentor, which have helped Government Association shape my growth as Mayor of the City. Mostly, I president thank her and Jim for their friendship and support and I wish them both the very best life has to offer.”
Mayor Richard Alcombright
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Grant is a breath of fresh air and a changed direction of wind. I am excited for her next, logical move.”
Deborah Foss, coordinator of Academic Advising
Photo courtesy of president’s office
The women’s and men’s basketball teams gather for a photo with the president at Midnight Madness on Oct. 27.
A look back on 13 years of accomplishments
• Designated a Top Ten Public Liberal Arts College: 2011-2014 • Opened Health Services to community when North Adams Regional Hospital closed: 2014 • Established Mary K. Grant ‘83 Endowed Fund: 2014 • Ongoing Bowman Hall Renovation 2014-2015 • $5 million pledge established a new endowed fund that focuses on innovation and leadership in honor of Dr. Armand V. Feigenbaum and his brother, Donald S. Feigenbaum: 2013 • First new building in 40 years; the Feigenbaum Center for Science and Innovation: September 2013
• Launching of $22.5 million Sowing Seeds campaign: 2012 • Oversaw two NEASC reaccrediations: 2003 & 2012 • $7-million project funded by the Massachusetts State College Building Authority (MSCBA) to renovate Hoosac Hall: 2011 & 2012 • Renovation of Amsler Campus Center Marketplace: 2011 • The Massachusetts State College Building Authority funded the Berkshire Towers renovation construction project through a $4 million bond: 2009 • Establishment of Gallery 51: 2006
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Thursday, November 13, 2014
Sports
Beacon.MCLA.edu
Men’s soccer advances to semi finals Volleyball battles with By Tyler Bacon
the opening minutes of the second half when sophomore Edward Boateng curved a corner kick inside the far post in the 54th minute. The Rams had a chance to tie the game in 71st minute. Junior Cory Cardiero sent a long cross to CJ Alimonti in the box. Alimonti got a shot off, but Robinson came up with the big save. The Blazers added an insurance goal in the 75th minute to extend
1 in the MASCAC. The Blazers finish the regular season with a Sports Writer record of 6-7-3 and 2-2-3 in conference play. The MCLA Trailblazers scored The single goal of the game oca pair of second half goals to decurred when Michael Rouette feat Framingham State Univercollected a corner kick from Rob sity Rams 2-0 in the quarterfinals Robbs and scored for his second of the MASCAC Men’s Soccer goal of the season. Championship Tournament. Playing in a downpour and With the victory, the Blazers strong, gusty winds, neither team improve to 7-7-3 on the year and was strong offensively as the Blazadvance to the semifinal round of ers held a 12-6 shot advantage. the Men’s Soccer Championships. Cohen made six saves to MCLA will travel to earn the shutout for the Bucs. Bridgewater State UniMatt Robinson allowed the versity tomorrow night lone goal and stopped a pair at 7 p.m. The Rams see of shots. their season come to an Coach Adam Hildabrand end with a record 5-12did not think the final score 1. reflected how the game was Both teams had their played. chances early in the first “I thought we performed half as both offenses well, ” Hildabrand said. “The were firing on all cylinscore line did not reflect the ders. MCLA Sophomore game. ” Anthony Basile fired a Senior Mitchell Candelet shot from the top of the thinks they dominated the box, but it hit the post gameplay after starting in a just five minutes into the 1-0 hole. game. Two minutes later, “I think as a team we played Basile had a breakaway, Photo by Kasey Conklin very well. We started the but his shot sailed just Nolan Burke switches fields for the attack. game very slow but then setwide of the post. tled down and played soccer,” The Rams best chance the lead to 2-0. Sophomore RoCandelet. “We dominated the to score came down the stretch meo Grey dribbled the ball down play of the game once we were in the first half with just over ten minutes remaining, when fresh- the right side and sent a cross down 1-0. It was a test for us and showed that we can battle.” man Jamie Plowman received a through the box The Massachusetts Maritime “I think as a team we played pass in the box and took a shot Academy men’s soccer team very well. We started the game that hit the far post and bounced scored in the fifth minute and very slow but then settled down toward the goal line. MCLA keeper Joe Cohen preserved the and played soccer,” Candelet said. keeper Matt Robinson was able to lead as the Buccaneers defeated “We dominated the play of the pounce on the loose ball before it the Trailblazers 1-0. With the game once we were down 1-0. It could roll over the goal line, sendwin, MMA wraps up its regular was a test for us and showed that ing the game to halftime scoreless. season at 7-7-2 overall and 4-2we can battle. ” The Blazers grabbed the lead in
Bridgewater State By Jesse Collings
nihilated the Blazers in the second set, trumping them 25-5. The Bears sealed the victory in the The Volleyball team traveled to third set, defeating MCLA 25-15 Bridgewater State on Saturday to win. MCLA was led by sophomore to compete in their final regular game of the season. Bridgewater Sam Anderson, who had 9 kills, won a hotly contested first set, and junior Courtney Parent, who and then rolled over the Trail- added 15 assists. The biggest difference between blazers in the next two sets to win the two teams the game 3-0. was on the deMCLA finfensive end. ished the regBridgewater ular season produced 60 with a record digs on the of 15-12 overday, while all, and 2-4 MCLA could in conference only muster play, while 16. BridgeBridgewater water had 4.5 finished 17blocks on the 18 overall and day, while the 3-3 in conferBlazers didn’t ence play. have a single The game one all game. was of parThe teams ticular imclashed again portance on Wednesbecause it day in the decided who first round of would get the the MASCAC #4 seed in the Photo by Jesse Collings/The Beacon tournament. MASCAC tournament. Sophomore Rachel Mills rises up for Bridgewater comes into With the vic- the kill. the game tory, Bridgewater ensured it would get to host not only fresh off the victory on the playoff match between the Saturday, but also having won three of their last four matchups. two teams on Wednesday. Bridgewater opened the match MCLA is trending the other way, with a gritty victory in the first having lost four of their last six set, beating MCLA 25-21. Using matches. For the result of that that momentum, Bridgewater an- matchup, visit The Beacon online. Sports Editor
Brady leads NFL midseason awards By Jesse Collings Sports Editor
With the NFL season just a little bit over halfway complete, it is time for me to hand out my midseason awards. MVP: Tom Brady Quite simply, nobody has done more with less this season. A slew of good quarterbacks – Peyton Manning, Andrew Luck, Phillip Rivers, Aaron Rodgers, and Ben Roethlisberger – have all had very good seasons, but none have been as good as Brady, considering the lack of talent around him. Brady has been blessed with the return of a healthy Rob Gronkowski, but he has turned Brandon LaFell (who never caught more than 50 passes in a season) and Julian Edelman (a 7th round draft pick and former collegiate Quarterback) into a feared wide receiving combination. In addition, Brady has had to deal with the loss of his top running back (Stephen Ridley) and a makeshift offensive line. At 7-2, the Patriots have the inside track for the number one seed in the AFC, and it’s thanks to their veteran QB. Runners Up: Peyton Manning, DeMarco Murray, Andrew Luck
Offensive Player of the Year: DeMarco Murray Tom Brady might be the Most Valuable Player, but the league’s best offensive player is Murray. A common refrain of today’s NFL is that the running back position doesn’t really matter, that a backfield-by-committee is the most effective and cost-efficient way to achieve success on the ground. That might be true for 25 of the NFL’s teams, but for a few franchises, like Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, and Seattle, having a true workhorse back is the key to their success. Murray has carried the Cowboys’ offensive, leading the league in rushing attempts, yards, and touchdowns. Murray also has 255 total touches this season, nearly 60 more than the next closest player. Runners Up: Tom Brady, Peyton Manning, Arian Foster Defensive Player of the Year: J.J. Watt The most destructive player in the NFL, Watt has proven to be nearly unblockable, and a relentless pass rusher so far this season. Watt is fourth in the league in sacks, but unlike other elite pass rushers like Justin Houston and Von Miller, Watt has an incredible
impact when he isn’t even close to the quarterback. Watt can defend the run, and his ability to deflect passes and make plays with the football forces quarterbacks to account for him no matter where he is lined up. No single player does a better job sealing off part of the field. Runners Up: Justin Houston, Patrick Peterson, Perrish Cox
Offensive Rookie of the Year: Zach Martin Strange to see an offensive guard here, but considering the numbers that Martin has helped Murray produce, it shouldn’t be that shocking. Martin was a left tackle at Notre Dame, but after being drafted by the Cowboys in the first round, he won the starting right guard job and has paved the way for Murray and the rest of the elite Dallas offensive line. Martin’s skill as both a pass protector and a road-grader has had as big of an impact on the Cowboys’ success as anyone, and he beats out Buffalo playmaker Sammie Watkins for this award. Runners Up: Sammie Watkins, Kelvin Benjamin, Teddy Bridgewater Defensive Rookie of the Year:
C.J. Mosley The latest Alabama linebacker to make an impact in the NFL, Mosley has held down the center of the Baltimore Ravens’ defense and filled the void that Ray Lewis left upon his retirement two seasons ago. Despite his rookie status, Mosley has led a revived defense in Baltimore, and should be a staple of their defense for the next decade. Runners Up: Kyle Fuller, Khalil Mack, Anthony Barr Coach of the Year: Bruce Arians Despite injuries doing a great deal of damage to his defense, Arizona Cardinals coach Bruce Arians has steered his ship masterfully and has Arizona with the best record in football. The sum of the team’s parts does not equal the level of success this team has had, and that credit goes to the head coach. Arizona is 7-1 and two games in front of Seattle in a difficult NFC West division, and with Arians calling the shots, they are in as good of a spot as anyone to take home field advantage for the playoffs. Runners Up: Bill Belichick, Jason Garrett, Chip Kelly
All-NFL Team Offense QB: Tom Brady-Patriots RB: DeMarco Murray-Cowboys RB: Arian Foster-Texans WR: Antonio Brown-Steelers WR: Demariyus Thomas- Broncos WR: Jordy Nelson-Packers TE:Rob Gronkowski-Patriots T: Joe Thomas-Browns T: Tyron Smith-Cowboys G: Marshal Yanda-Ravens G: Zach Martin-Cowboys C: Travis Frederick-Cowboys Defense DE: J.J. Watt-Texans DE: Ziggy Ansah-Lions DT: Gerald McCoy-Bucs DT: Marcel Dareus-Bills OLB: Von Miller-Broncos OLB: Justin Houston-Chiefs ILB: Luke Kuechly-Panthers ILB: Larry Foote- Cardinals CB: Patrick Peterson-Cardinals CB: Perrish Cox-49ers CB: Vontae Davis-Colts S: Earl Thomas-Seahawks S: Harrison Smith-Vikings Specialists K: Dan Bailey-Cowboys P: Pat McAfee-Colts KR: Devin Hester-Falcons ST: Matthew Slater-Patriots
Sports
Thursday, November 13, 2014
Fair Territory
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9
Women look to build on Scores talented, young lineup Volleyball
Wednesday, November 5th MCLA @ Bridgewater State 0-3
By Jesse Collings Sports Editor
d
The basketball arm’s race By Jesse Collings Sports Editor
For a while, the odds of multiple superstars teaming up to play on the same team was an idea of the past. Legendary teams like the Celtics, Lakers and 76ers had built teams with several Hall of Fame players aboard, but that was so long ago, before a hard salary cap was installed and players were not making the GDP of small European nations. For a lot of NBA teams, you had one AllNBA player, maybe a secondary All-Star, and you had to hope that it was enough to get the team to a championship. The Miami Heat, with their calculated assemblage of talent over the summer of 2010, pretty much changed all of that. Pat Riley and the rest of the organization showed everybody that if you played your cards right and sold your franchise as the place to be, a “super team” could be established, one that could rival the great teams of the pre-salary cap era. By establishing such a conglomerate of basketball talent, Miami ushered in a new arms race for NBA teams hoping to contend for a championship. It was no longer acceptable to have one All-Star on your roster, you needed to have two, or three, or four. There has been plenty of criticism directed at losing teams over the last few seasons, where fans and pundits alike declared that certain teams were purposely trying to lose games in order to improve their odds at getting a high draft pick at the end of the season. Last season marked a particular low water mark for the NBA, as multiple teams appeared to be trying to lose as many games as possible. While there was plenty of bluster about this, there was another reason why so many teams were awful last season: The talent in the NBA was more clustered than ever. Instead of 20 teams having an All-Star, 10 teams had two AllStars. When franchises clear out cap room and land two or three franchise players, which leaves a huge gap in talent for the rest of the teams that are shut out of the bonanza. With the salary cap set to increase substantially over the upcoming seasons, expect to see more teams trying to consolidate several All-Stars, which will lead to even greater super teams, which will lead to more teams starving for talent, and more lopsided games.
After a difficult campaign last season, the Women’s basketball team will look to rebound this season, building on a foundation comprised of underclassmen. The team will feature six freshmen and six sophomores as the Trailblazers look to gain valuable experience playing in MASCAC this season. Last season MCLA finished with a record of 4-21 and were winless in MASCAC, going 0-12 and ending the season on a 14 game losing streak. The team will also have to replace departed senior Kaitlyn Chenevert, who did it all for the Blazers last season. Chenevert led the team in scoring, averaging 11.2 points per game, and also led the team in steals and assists. On the bright side, MCLA will look forward to a full season out of sophomore Kayla Hotaling. After missing the first half of the season recovering from an injury, Hotaling played with a vengeance for the final ten games of the season. Hotaling averaged nearly a double-double, scoring 10.5 points per game, as well as 8.9 rebounds per game and 2.5 blocks per game, both of which would have led everyone in MASCAC if Hotaling had played a whole season. In addition to Hotaling, the team will look for a boost from other sophomores who showed promise during their freshmen seasons. Brayleigh Hanlon was
Men’s Soccer Friday, November 7th MCLA @ Bridgewater State 1-4 Women’s Cross Country Saturday, November 8th MCLA @ ECAC Championships 45th Place Men’s Cross Country Photo From MCLA Athletics
After missing the first half of the season recovering from an injury, sophomore Kayla Hotaling led MASCAC in both rebounds and blocks. third on the team in scoring last season, averaging 7.2 points per game and was second on the team in the three point shooting, knocking down 30 percent of her attempts from beyond the arc. Fellow sophomore Ashley Clawson averaged 6.2 points per game and gained valuable experience during her freshmen season, leading the team in minutes played, averaging 31 minutes per game. To compete in MASCAC, the Blazers will have to improve their team defense, as they finished last in the conference, allowing a conference high 69.1 points per game and allowed opponents to shoot
42 percent from the floor. The loss of Chenevert hurts, but Coach Holly McGovern will look to her talented group of sophomores to make a bigger contribution on the defensive end. Having Hotaling back for a full season will certainly help, and the team will need a big contribution out of sophomore forward Svetlana Morrell and freshman Emily Castle, who will be holding down the interior defense. The team will start its season on Saturday, when they host Daniel Webster. The game will be held in the Campus Center Gymnasium and will begin at 3 p.m.
Undefeated Bulldogs still atop CFB rankings By Tyler Bacon
After an exciting week of action, The Beacon’s Tyler Bacon ranks the top five teams in the nation.
halftime lead. Jameis Winston capped the run with a four-yard touchdown run, and he also threw for 261 yards with a touchdown but two interceptions. The final score was 34-20.
1. Mississippi State Bulldogs (9-0, 5-0 SEC)
3. Alabama Crimson Tide (8-1, 5-1 SEC)
Mississippi State cruised to its 12th straight victory, gaining 520 yards in its final tune up before visiting Alabama on Saturday with first place in the SEC West and playoff positioning on the line. Ashton Shumpert and Brandon Holloway added rushing touchdowns for Mississippi State, which is one win short of its school record of 13 consecutive wins set from 1942-44. Mississippi State beat UT-Martin 45-16.
After a late fumble by TJ Yeldon set up an LSU field goal to put the Tigers up by three with under a mintue to go, the Crimson Tide rallied back Alabama forced overtime with three seconds left, then DeAndrew White caught a six-yard touchdown pass from Blake Sims. Alabama then stopped LSU on its possession to sneak out of Death Valley with a playoff resumébuilding victory. The win sets up Saturday’s visit from top-ranked Mississippi State in a game that will have major playoff implications and also determine first place in the SEC West.
Sports Writer
2. Florida State Seminoles (9-0, 6-0 ACC) Florida State won its 25th straight game, coming from behind against undermanned Virginia. The Seminoles trailed 13-7 after the first quarter before scoring 21 straight points to take a 15-point
4. Oregon Ducks (9-1, 6-1 Pac12) Oregon locked up a spot in the
conference title game, clinching the North Division behind 353 yards of total offense from quarterback Marcus Mariota. Trailing 7-0, Oregon appeared to have given up another touchdown, but Utah’s Kaelin Clay let go of the ball before crossing the goal line, and Joe Walker returned it 100 yards for the tying touchdown. Utah pulled within 30-27 early in the fourth quarter before the Ducks scored three more times. Oregon won with a final score of 51-27. 5. TCU Horned Frogs (8-1, 5-1 Big 12) TCU threw itself fully into the mix for the playoffs, while creating a three-way tie for first place, with a convincing performance against Kansas State. Trevone Boykin played through a wrist injury to throw for 219 yards and a touchdown. He did most of his damage on the ground, though. He flipped into the end zone for one of his three touchdowns, finishing with 123 yards rushing. TCU beat Kansas State by a score of 41-20.
Saturday, November 8th MCLA @ ECAC Championships 37th Place
Schedules Saturday, November 15th Cross Country MCLA @ NCAA NE Regional Championships Men’s Basketball MCLA vs UMaine Fort-Kent 1 p.m. Women’s Basketball MCLA vs Daniel Webster 3 p.m. Thursday, November 20 Women’s Basketball MCLA @ Western New England 5:30 p.m. Friday, November 21 Men’s Basketball MCLA @ Castleton State 7 p.m. Saturday, November 22nd Women’s Basketball MCLA @ Fisher College Noon Monday, November 24th Women’s Basketball MCLA vs Becker 6 p.m. Tuesday, November 25th Men’s Basketball MCLA @ Williams 7 p.m. Saturday, November 29th Men’s Basketball MCLA vs New York Univeristy 2 p.m. Monday, December 1st Men’s Basketball MCLA vs Weslayen 7 p.m.
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Opinion
Thursday, November 13, 2014
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Do you think it’s important to support fair trade organizations? “I have heard of no real down side to fair trade organizations. Morally it should be the only viable option.”
“Good for smaller companies that are supporting other countries that need help.” –Kristina Alexander, 2016
– Dakota Condon, 2015
The Beacon The Beacon is published Thursdays during the academic year and is distributed free to the College’s community. The Beacon is funded by the Student Government Association, the English/Communications department, and ad revenues. Single copies are free, additional copies may be purchased at 50 cents each. Contact information: News desk number: 413-662-5535 Business number: 413-662-5404 Email: 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.
“It is important to support fair trade organizations. Taxes shouldn’t be placed on trade internationally because needs are different for everyone worldwide.”
“Good if it is beneficial towards both countries.”
Editorials Policy Unsigned editorials that appear on these pages reflect the views of The Beacon’s editorial board.
–David Roberts, 2016
Signed columns and commentaries that appear on these pages reflect the views of the writers.
– Khalill Dancy, 2016
Letters Policy The Beacon welcomes Letters to the Editor. Deadline is noon on Mondays for that week’s newspaper.
“I think fair trade is great and helps to get rid of problems within various industries. Fair trade guarentees better working conditions and environments.” -Lucas McDiarmid, 2015
“It is important to support fair trade organizations to benefit from a deal while also supporting the other countries you are working with.”
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.
– Sophia Capozzoli, 2015
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 emailed to Beacon@mcla.edu.
Photos compiled by Osakpolo Igiede
In my humble opinion...
Health & Fitness
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Editorial Board Editor-in-Chief Makayla-Courtney McGeeney
What we don’t know about coffee By Makayla-Courtney McGeeney Editor-in-Chief
Last week, Dean’s Beans founder Dean Cycon spoke about where one cup of coffee comes from. He elaborated on fair trade and what being organic really means when tending to a coffee crop. There are hundreds of brands of coffee out there and we rarely know where it actually comes from; we also don’t see past the middle man. Cycon said that most crops in the coffee world are covered in pesticides, six of which are banned from consumption in the U.S. He explained how popular coffee chains such as Starbucks and Dunkin Donuts buy coffee at a very low cost, leading to lower wages for the farmers. Dean’s Beans gives 50 percent profit to the company, 25 to the employees and 25 to their farmers. The company also works with the farmers to try to improve their lives. Cycon has trained the first African farmer to grow certified organic coffee. He explained that some companies claim to be 100 percent organic on their packages, but then describe how three different types of coffee make up the one blend. After my first trip to Whole Foods on Monday, it made me happy to hear the cashier say “I’m good, just happy that I can sell
good food to good people.” At Whole Foods, there are expensive items, but it’s because most of the products are locally grown or manufactured and made with fresh ingredients. Quick, cheap, fast food is known for being processed and made with genetically modified organisms (GMO), so in the end it may be worth it to splurge the extra dollar. A few days after I heard Cycon speak, I stumbled upon a CNBC documentary titled ‘The Coffee Addiction,’ which touched on coffee farmer wages and the CEO of Starbucks. Until I heard Cycon, I had never realized that such an issue was prevalent, but after encountering it twice in a small amount of time, I’ve really honored the value of my dollar on consumption of food and beverages. If a coffee is certified organic, I would rather pay a higher price for better quality coffee than knowing my diet is being cheated by chemicals. Dean’s Beans purchases coffee at a slightly higher price to give farmers the salary they deserve. Figure out where your food comes from and appreciate the effort put into getting it to your kitchen. Cycon is experience in working with the different countries of the coffee world and hopes to expand his influences of fair trade with more countries, his next destination being the spice islands of Indonesia.
Got social skills? By Nick Arena
Multimedia Editor With the many great things the Internet has brought us, one enormously debatable feature is online dating. While online dating has made it easier to meet people, especially in today’s bustling society, I can’t help but wonder if it is detracting from our ability to socialize with people around us. I love reading horror stories about the speed-dating cellphone app Tinder. From the crazy people you can meet there, to the horrifyingly awkward dates that tend to follow, it all provides me with hours of amusement. But how does the app work exactly? Tinder works on the simple system of throwing “matches” – people in your area and, I’m assuming, with shared interests – your way and giving you the opportunity to swipe right on your phone to “like” them, or left to pass them over. Each match comes with a photograph and a brief description that the other user has written up about themself. Once a user has “liked” a match, if the match responds by liking them as well then they can start a conversation. That being said, I don’t think you are limited to only messaging someone who has liked your profile. What we have here is essentially online speed dating. It’s a pretty cool concept for the busiest of us, but
what is really happening here? For one, I bet the speed dating business has seen a sharp decline in participants as of late. The app is just allowing people to do what they do virtually every day walking down the street. On any given day, we pass by and interact with any number of other people. We have the visual image of who they are, and we may or may not have a tiny bit of information about who they are. For example, I know the woman selling me cigarettes works at a gas station convenience store. Using an app like this provides some safety; you are just on your phone, you’re not standing four feet from someone. It gives people a shot of confidence that at one time would have been saved for a face-to-face interaction. I won’t knock the online dating scene for what it is; I’ve done it myself – spoiler: it always ended badly – and I’ve met people who have done it and been very happy for it. But when someone who has the time to go out and meet people relegates themselves to an app like this, our ability to socialize dies a little bit more. I love the Internet, and I am always excited to see what it has in store for us next, but as a society I think we need to get back to a time where it was just easier to meet someone outside than it was to sit behind your computer and look at their profile. You always enjoy what you have to work for a little bit more.
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Events, Announcements & Horoscopes
Thursday, November 13, 2014
Today, Nov. 13 Book Club Meeting, CC 324B 6-7 p.m. Public Policy Lecture Jose Antonio Vargas Murdock 218 7-8 p.m.
Thursday November, 13
Aquarius (1/20-2/18): You may feel like the brakes have been slammed in the romance department, Aquarius. Realize that this doesn’t mean you have to stop having fun. Pisces (2/19-3/20): The stars indicate that love and romance are in your favor, Pisces. You will find that this area of your life is going well.
Open Mic Night Sullivan Lounge 7-10 p.m.
Aries (3/21-4/19):You may feel like your romantic side is on display. You’re like a dancer onstage, and you accept this role with pleasure!
Intramural Sports 8-11:30 p.m. ALANA Club Council CC 324B 9:30-10:30 p.m.
Taurus (4/20-5/20): Come out of your shell and be proud of your sensitive side, Taurus. Although you may feel vulnerable when it comes to love and romance, this doesn’t mean that you have to hide it.
Friday, Nov. 14 How to Ace an Interview Sullivan Lounge 4-6 p.m. SAC Meeting, CC 324A 6-8 p.m. Yorick Presents: Winter’s Tale CSC Social Hall 8 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 15 Yorick Presents: Winter’s Tale CSC Social Hall 2 p.m. Christian Fellowship Saturday Night Chat Sullivan Lounge 7-9 p.m.
Letter to the Editor
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Gemini (5/21-6/20): The time is ripe for you to take the lead. Unfortunately, there may be one important part of your life that isn’t going exactly to plan, and this is love and romance. Cancer (6/21-7/22): Don’t think of the possible negative consequences of having a good time.
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Focus on the fun and excitement of the moment. Leo (7/23-8/22): Whoever shares your company tonight is extremely lucky. Make sure this person is worthy of you. Virgo (8/23-9/23): You may be under the impression that you’re being tested and judged by everyone else. Try not to let your ego get in the way of a good time. Libra (9/23-10/22): You may feel filled with tremendous energy as you go about your day. Your sense of adventure is high, and there’s very little that gets you down. Scorpio(10/23-11/21):Put serious subjects aside and make time to have fun and be more social. Sagittarius (11/22-12/21): here’s a stubborn yet sensitive attitude in your world of romance that may be difficult for you to deal with. Capricorn (12/22-1/19): Sensual, passionate lovemaking is definitely on the agenda of activities for tonight, Capricorn.
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Voting important, despite columnist’s angst To the editor, Rarely have I read something as immature and irresponsible as Nick Arena’s piece in your Nov 6, 2014 edition (Why Bother?). Over the past 238 years, people have died and endured countless hardships to ensure our right to vote. These struggles continue today as several states have recently passed laws attempting to disenfranchise voters. The right to vote is one of the most fundamental privileges of our republic. It is the basic building block of self-government. When Mr. Arena decides not to exercise that right, he is exercising his personal freedom and that is fine. Nevertheless, I find it reprehensible for him to encourage others to do the same. Women suffragists were regularly jailed protesting for the right to vote during the 19th and early 20th century. During the Jim Crow era, African Americans were frequently beaten or killed for attempting to exercise their
right to vote. Poll taxes and literacy tests were regularly used to keep people from casting their ballot. I won’t even get into the millions of military men and women who have sacrificed and given their lives to ensure that Mr. Arena can exercise his right to not vote. So maybe the election didn’t go the way you wanted it to Mr. Arena. Perhaps there has been a power shift in Washington that wasn’t exactly to your liking. Events such as these are part of the price we pay for living in a republic. Elections and political parties are part of the process of American self-governance however messy and flawed that process may be. Please feel free to do whatever you want on the next Election Day, but please do not encourage others to follow your immature example. Such conduct has no place in a self-governing republic. Sincerley, Thomas Whalen
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Roper Patenaude ‘08 to receive educator alumni award amongst eight other educators Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) has announced that Cynthia Roper-Patenaude ’04, M.Ed. ’08 was selected by the Massachusetts State Universities Council of Presidents to receive the Educator Alumni Award on Tuesday, Nov. 28, in the Great Hall of the Massachusetts State House. Roper-Patenaude, an English teacher at Charles H. McCann High School in North Adams since 2004, will be one of eight educators to be recognized, one from each of the education programs of the State University System. Roper-Patenaude, the inaugural recipient of the 2011 Berkshire County Educator of the Year Award, also was this year’s recipient of the MCLA Outstanding Educator Award. At McCann, Roper-Patenaude serves as a book club advisor and a class advisor. As a cooperating teacher at McCann, she supervises field placement and professional semester student teachers from MCLA. Her tutoring experience includes an online “short stories” module, on-time remediation, one-on-one MCAS preparation, and she serves as a homework help instructor and a SAT
preparation instructor. Roper-Patenaude’s numerous professional development experiences include this year’s “Building an Inclusive Community-Workshop,” “Curriculum Mapping Initiative” in fall 2012 and 2013, and “Tapping the Talent with Gifted Students” at Colorado State University-Pueblo in summer 2012. A member of Who’s Who Among American Teachers, Roper-Patenaude is a SkillsUSA professional member, and belongs to the Lambda Iota International Honor Society, the Pi Lambda Theta International Honor Society, and the Alpha Chi National Honor Society. Roper-Patenaude graduated from MCLA magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English in 2004. In addition, she had concentration in creative writing and a minor in secondary education. In 2008, she earned her Master of Education degree from MCLA, summa cum laude. Her concentration was in reading, and her thesis focused on “Image Distortion in the Media.” For more information, go to www.mcla.edu.
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Thursday, November 13, 2014
Photo Essay
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An evening with Mary Grant Students were welcomed to the Feigenbaum Center for Science and Innovation on Thursday for one last farewell reception for President Mary Grant. Grant, who has served at the College for 13 years, will say her final goodbyes on Wednesday. Photos by Agnella Gross
Junior Josh Reynolds chats with Mary Grant at the reception.
Senior Rhea Werner signs a scrapbook for Mary Grant.
Mary Grant posed with students for farewell photos throughout the evening.
Students pose with Mary Grant for a photographer on the second floor balcony.
Senior Kraig Page spoke for the Trailblazers basketball team at the reception.