Ramapo-News-04-14-11

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RAMAPO NEWS Tennis Page 14

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SPORTS

Ramapo Camps out to Fundraise for Haiti

A Publication by the Students for the Ramapo College Community

4.14.2011

XLI No. 21

Ramapo Coalition Takes on Tuition Hikes

By GARRET IVINS Staff Wrtier

photo by Mike Jagendorf

The Haiti Tent-a-Thon last Thursday and Friday raised money for the Haitian Relief Scholarship Committee, which will allow Haitian students to attend Ramapo as early as next semester.

By MIKE JAGENDORF Staff Writer

Students slept in tents in the Laurel Courts last week for the Haiti Tent-a-Thon, an event held to raise money to send Haitian students to Ramapo. The event lasted from Thursday into Friday evening. In addition to sleeping in tents for a night, students who signed up enjoyed basketball, volleyball, frisbee, a DJ, hot dogs, and board games.

The campout was the idea of Edouard Eloi, the operations manager of the Berrie Center, a HaitianAmerican who has been actively working to raise awareness and

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money since a 7.0 earthquake devastated Port-au-Prince last January.

He is in charge of the Haitian Relief Scholarship Committee, an initiative to bring two bright and dedicated Haitian students to get a free four-year education at Ramapo.

They will be chosen by a rigorous application process. The students must return to their home country for at least five years after graduating.

“We want the students to go home and make a difference,” said Megan McHugh, a junior communications major who helped coordinate the event.

Ramapo is giving these students

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free tuition, but the money for their meal plans and housing fees will come from fundraising; $17,000 has been raised so far. The committee hopes to raise enough money to bring the Haitians over as early as next fall.

Another organizer, senior Tara Belits, is the president of the Yoga Club, which also sponsored the event.

“When Edouard Eloi approached me about doing this event, I immediately wanted to help out and wanted to get students on campus involved,” she said. “The event was so fun to organize and the money will truly be going to a

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great cause.”

“By bringing the students to Ramapo for an education, we are preparing them for the future and giving them the knowledge and skills they can pass on to others.

We hope to make a very real impact on the situation in Haiti.”

The earthquake, which killed over 300,000 people, occurred more than a year ago. People’s charitable efforts have been more focused lately on the disaster in Japan, but hundreds of thousands are still living in disease-ridden tent cities in Haiti, which have yet to recover

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Students and faculty members came together on Friday to discuss the current legislative debates revolving around the increased tuition costs of New Jersey public higher education. In the daylong forum titled “Austerity, Debt, Corporate Greed and What WE Can Do,” faculty members and student volunteers presented Ramapo students with the facts behind their cause.

Faculty members from the School of American and International Studies facilitated the second session of the day, “From Midwest to Mideast—From New Jersey to the World: Issues and Actions.” Together, Professors Keisha Haywood, Roark Atkinson and others showed students that major corporations like General Electric are paying no money in taxes. This means less money to the federal government and thus less money to be allocated toward public higher education.

Members of the coalition also showed students what other college campuses are doing both across the country and overseas to protest tuition hikes. Students at University of California-Berkeley and London gathered by the thousands to show their opposition to the increases and get media attention on the issue. A session later in the day included a Skype conversation with former Ramapo graduates who were at the UCBerkeley protests.

During the forum, students were encouraged to voice their opinions and help brainstorm ideas to fight back against a raise in tuition, especially after Governor

see TUITION on page 6

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Page 2 The Ramapo News

THE RAMAPO NEWS Robert A. Scott Student Center 505 Ramapo Valley Road Mahwah, NJ 07430

(201) 684-7842 rcnjnews@ramapo.edu Megan Anderle Amy Fezza

Editor-in-Chief

Managing Editor

Nicole Alliegro Elyse Toribio News Editors

Diana Stanczak A & E Editor

Andrew Gould Sean Ritchie

Stefanie Mauro Sports Editors Photo Editor

Matt Giuliari Maria Sallustio

Creative Directors

Samantha Ullrich Web Editor

Adam Panella Dan Sforza

Business Manager Technical Advisor

Danielle Reed Keri Ann Flaccomio Contributors

INSIDE

Greek Week Unifies Orgs for a Good Cause

Thursday, April 14, 2011

By AMY FEZZA, MIKE JAGENDORF, S EAN RITCHIE and ELYS E TORIBIO Staff Writers

With the weather not exactly screaming springtime these past few weeks, the kick-off of Ramapo’s annual Greek Week this past Sunday was certainly a warm welcome to the season and a fun-filled introduction to the remainder of the semester.

All Greek fraternities and sororities on campus were encouraged to take part in the week-long event that consists of athletic competitions and collaborative fundraising, and promotes inter-Greek camaraderie.

Multicultural sororities and fraternities part of the United Cultural Greek Council like Beta Kappa Sigma and Psi Kappa Sigma participate in the activities as one team. At the end of the week, the team that has accumulated the most points through rankings in the different events is dubbed Greek Week champion.

Mandy Saffer, senior and member of Theta Phi Alpha sorority, explained that this year has generated more excitement among its participants than before with the debut of a new sorority and fraternity, Alpha Omicron Pi and Pi Kappa Alpha, respectively. Unlike years prior, Saffer adds, everyone can participate.

“There are no teams on suspension this year, so every organization is playing, which is really cool,” Saffer said. “Essentially all members of Greek life are involved. It’s healthy competition and something we look forward to all year.”

Additionally, the scheduling of the events were changed this year, spread throughout the week and over two weekends to promote more attendance by Greeks and other students showing their support.

“I think it’s smart to hold off on everything until the nighttime because I personally am not on campus two days a week and would hate to miss an event,” Saffer said. “A lot of people have work and can't afford to miss class during the day.”

Greek Sing, a talent show-type competition, is also a relatively new event that will be held at the end of the week for the second year in a row.

“It’s a fun way for people who aren’t athletic to participate in Greek Week,” Saffer said.

Tim Carns, a member of the Tau Alpha Phi fraternity, believes that Greek Week is beneficial to the Ramapo and local community as well.

“We make a good impact on campus,” Carns said. “We come out to show people what Greek life is all about.”

Aside from all the more noticeable changes, there is still one event

that remains the same: Penny Wars. While each Greek and non-Greek organization fundraises for selected philanthropies throughout the year, Penny Wars is a perfect chance for fraternities and sororities to raise money competitively and show that Ramapo cares. In the playful competition among Greek life, the team that has the most amount of pennies in their respective jars by the end of the week is deemed the winner and can donate their winnings to the charity of their choice. Last year, the competition raised nearly $1,000.

Brian Amabile, a junior and in Alpha Epsilon Pi, ran the Penny Wars table on Wednesday afternoon held up the ZBT jar and said while laughing, “Whoever is liked the least gets a lot of cash.” This year some of the charities include cancer research, tsunami relief, and women and children shelter, among others.

On Tuesday night, fraternities and sororities trekked through the rainy weather to the Auxiliary Gym for a dodgeball tournament. While it might have been chilly outside, the air in the gym was thick with heat and excitement.

Alex Vizcaino, a freshman and member of the Alpha Epsilon Pi fraternity, explained the simultaneous aggressiveness and inter-Greek connections that stir up during the annual week of activities.

“People can get hot-headed during the competitions, but at the end of the day, we all have a brotherhood bond,” Vizcaino said. “We all know what’s it like to be part of a fraternity.”

Charlen McNeil, also a freshman and member of the Betta Kappa Sigma Black and Latino Sorority Inc., agrees that some people can take the lighthearted games too seriously.

“We didn’t do anything to prepare for [dodgeball] tonight, but it seems like all the other organizations prepared for this, with practicing and strategies,” McNeil said. “We’re just here for fun.”

While some Greeks, like Saffer, choose not to participate in the sporting events, they still make every effort to support their brothers and sisters by attending the different events throughout the week.

“I believe that Theta Phi Alpha really comes together during Greek Week,” Saffer said. “I love always having something to do, have a chance to hang out with my friends and cheer for our team.”

Ken Rodenheiser, junior and member of the fraternity, enthused about showcasing his organization’s talents in the various competitions.

“We want everyone to get involved and show our strengths,” Rodenheiser said. “We just go out and play, and represent our organization. Greek Week unifies Greek life while also having a good competition.” afezza@ramapo.edu

Around the Arch Viewpoints Page 3

A&E Page 7

Sports Page 8

Page 13

POLICY

Whenever necessary, The Ramapo News will publish corrections or clarifications in the following issues. All corrections must be brought to the attention of the editor as soon as possible. The Ramapo News strives for accuracy. In keeping with journalistic standards, pre-publication review of any article, quote or editorial is not allowed. Viewpoints may be dropped off at SC-218 or e-mailed to rcnjnews@ramapo.edu. The Ramapo News reserves the right to edit viewpoints for content, style and space.

Anonymous viewpoints will not be accepted.

Paid advertisements are accepted at the sole discretion of The Ramapo News staff and are due no later than the Monday of that weekʼs issue.

Rates are available by contacting the editorial staff by phone or e-mail.

photos courtesy of Jessica Ceballos, Sean Ritchie and Elyse Toribio

This yearʼs Greek Week events were spread out over the course of a week to increase student participation and attendance and featured new organizations, Alpha Omicron Pi and Pi Kappa Alpha.

Didn’t see your Greek Week picture in print? We’ll put them on our Facebook! photo.rcnjnews@gmail.com

Thursday, April 14, 2011

THURSDAY’S CHILD

Sarah Michelle Gellar, star of the “Buffy” series and wife of actor Freddie Prinze Jr., turns 35 today.

TODAY IN HISTORY

On this day in 1948, NYC subway fares doubled to a whopping 10 cents.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

Anderson Cooper on Snooki: “[She is] one impossibly lucky...freakishly tan, beer guzzling, juicehead hugging...pintsized money making machine.”

Feminists United Bake Sale Addresses Pay Inequity in America

By KAITLIN McGUINNES S Staff Writer

Feminists United raised awareness for National Equal Pay Day on Tuesday by holding their second annual “Pay for Your Privilege” bake sale in the Fishbowl. The purpose of the bake sale was to highlight continuing wage disparity in America based on race, gender and sexual orientation.

Student stopping by the booth were sold tasty treats and informed about pay inequity.

“We are raising awareness about the pay disparity,” Feminist United member Rachel Halpern told curious students.

Cupcakes, cookies and brownies were on sale, but the price of the items depended on the sex, race and sexual orientation of the person purchasing them. White males paid a dollar for their treats, for example, while white women had to pay only 78 cents, reflective of how much less they are paid in the workplace than men for doing the same jobs. Hispanic, Black, Asian and gay women and men paid even less.

Event coordinator Travis Nicol pointed out that the theme of the sale was to “pay for your privilege.”

“As a white male I have privilege,” Nicol said. “With the bake sale it is flipped on its head, and I have to pay for it.”

Each member of the executive board of Feminists United spearheaded the planning of an event this year. Club Secretary Travis Nicol ran the bake sale, and he scheduled it to coincide with National Equal Pay Day. According to Nicol, the event was held again this year after its success in spreading awareness fall of last year.

“A lot of people at the bake sale were surprised that there’s still pay inequality,” he said.

Halpern worked at the table selling treats with Tom Lawless and Robin Netanel, fellow Feminists United members. They pointed out that people buying treats were allowed to self-indentify their race, gender and sexual orientation, but pay disparity often occurs as a result of how peo-

photo by Kaitlin McGuinness Students who purchased goods at the bake sale paid based on pay disparities as a result of sex, race and sexual orientation.

ple are perceived by employers.

The table featured information on how students can address the pay gap in America, including sending a message to New Jersey senators asking them to co-sponsor the Paycheck Fairness Act, which passed in the House of Representatives in January of 2009 but has not yet been considered by the Senate.

The wage gap has improved since the passing of the Equal Pay Act in 1963, when women were paid 59 cents on average for every dollar paid to men. Progress has been slow, however, with an improvement of only 19 cents between 1963 and 2007, which is less than half a cent every year. The rate of progress has slowed even more since 2001.

This issue is very relevant to college students soon to graduate and enter the workforce. Although men and women

should be equally qualified immediately after graduating from college, one year after graduation women are paid 80 percent on average of what men earn, and the gap widens over time.

10 years after graduation most women earn only 69 percent of what men who graduated the same year as them earn.

The bake sale was more of an “awareness-raiser” than a “fund-raiser,” Nicol said, and he was pleased at the success of the event.

“I hope it continues on after this year,” Nicol said. “I’m stepping down as Feminist United secretary but I hope the group continues it.”

Ramapo clubs like the Women’s Center and Active Minds were present, while Bergen County organizations like the Mahwah Health Department, L.E.A.R.N and the Department of Veterans of Healthcare attended.

There was a table to make stress balls, a corner to get caricatures and eat free Rita’s Italian ice.

“I think this is a fabulous way for faculty and students to interact,” Ivana Rivadeneiera, a junior, said. “This is a creative function for us to relax.”

Representatives from the Mahwah Health Department brought a Dermascan, a blacklight inside of a dark box with a mirror that showed students their face’s skin damage.

“Our message for the students is to avoid sun tanning,” Joannne Wendolowski, an employee said. “Students are shocked and can’t believe all the sun damage they have.

People say a picture is worth a thousand words, so we’re hoping this makes students more mindful of their sun safety.”

The Women’s Center gave out condoms and disseminated information on safe sex.

“It’s really important people know about our services,” Becky Garrabrant, a WC employee, said. “We’re the only place on campus that provides free sex supplies.”

L.E.A.R.N, a learning enhancement and resource network that is based in Denville, was present to talk about their services and an event they will co-sponsor with Active Minds on April 27.

The event, “Send Silence Packing,” is to commemorate about 1100 college students who commit suicide each year.

They will put backpacks around the Arch and march around campus to show their unity.

After seven years of running the fair, this is the last year the Center for Health and Counseling will host it, Hewing said. Instead, the Center is looking to host smaller events throughout the year, on topics like stress management and alcohol awareness.

“We’re still in the planning stages, but we need to do more events throughout the year to break it up, rather than just one big fair,” Hewing said.

Local Vendors Help to Raise Health Awareness at Annual Fair

By MEGAN ANDERLE Editor-in-Chief

Clubs on campus and local nonprofits gathered on Tuesday afternoon in Friends Hall to promote mental, physical and social health on campus.

The Health and Wellness Fair was sponsored by the Center for Health and Counseling Services and put together by the Health Awareness team, a group of six student employees.

“We wanted to bring people together to see the resources in the community,” Venus Hewing, a counselor from the Center for Health and Counseling said. “Ramapo is kind of isolated, so this is a good way to expose them to what’s out there.”

The Health and Wellness Fair is a win-win, both for the campus as well as the vendors that participate.

“We’ve received good feedback from Ramapo about the fair over the years,” Judith Green, director and a counselor at the Center, said. “It’s also a way for businesses to get out of their offices to market and promote.”

The annual event had less vendors than last year, but the Center hoped it would still get their name out and spread awareness about the services available to students, Hewing said.

“It was difficult to find organizations to come this year, because of the economy,” Hewing said. “We used to have many more vendors, but less people have come out the way they used to.”

“I think this is a fabulous way for faculty and students to interact. This is a creative function for us to relax.”

-Ivana Rivadeneiera, junior

kmcguinn@ramapo.edu

manderle@ramapo.edu

Students Join with State Colleges to Advocate for Funding Page 4 The Ramapo News

Thursday, April 14, 2011

Higher Ed. Committee Organizes Day of Action Speak Out

By NICOLE ALLIEGRO News Editor

Members of Student Government’s Higher Education Advocacy Committee recently helped create a new, state-wide student association called NJ United Students (NJUS) to unite their voices for the same cause: more funding for higher education. This initiative, started by the Rutgers-New Brunswick Student Government in February, includes nine of the 13 state funded colleges and universities in the state.

The organization’s mission is to advocate, represent, and educate New Jersey’s college students. Shortly after its formation, the group agreed on five policy positions: create a rational funding formula, make higher education a priority, put bonds on the referendum to benefit capital funding, provide adequate funding for grants and scholarships (such as EOF and the NJSTARS program), and allow students to have a direct connection to the governor by creating a Secretary of Higher Education and two seats of student representation on the Governor’s Council for Higher Education.

John Aspray, an undergraduate at Rutgers-New Brunswick and co-campaign coordinator for NJUS, believes this is an important cause.

“The state of higher education is in crisis right now. With more state money being allocated to incarceration than education, many opportunities for the state of New Jersey are being lost,” he said.

Since its inception, NJUS representatives have met with 16 senators and assemblypersons. As a result of their lobbying efforts, a new bill has been introduced in the Senate, which extends the Sunset Clause, allowing three additional years for state institutions to engage in public/private partnerships. Ramapo is utilizing this opportunity with the academic building roofs and solar panels capital projects.

NJUS has also been planning a Day of Action, where each college or university will make a public statement by hold-

ing an open forum, rally, teach-in, walkout, or speak out to demonstrate their frustrations with the constant cuts to higher education. Students will also be encouraged to sign letters of concern to Senator Paul Sarlo, chair of the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee, and Assemblyman Lou Greenwald, chair of the Assembly Budget Committee.

Specifically, Ramapo will be hosting a speak-out campaign called “Tell It Like It Is” on Wednesday, April 13 at the Laurel Courts from 12 to 3 p.m. At this event, students will be encouraged to air their complaints about the cuts to higher education, share how the lack of funding affected their college experience, and think about how much debt they’re accumulating from loans.

“I’m excited for the student body to really be getting their voice back when it comes to their education and their money,” said Danielle Mascio, the sophomore chair of the Higher Education Committee. “I’m hoping that through sharing personal experiences, legislators and Governor [Chris] Christie will have no choice but to recognize, and more importantly, act on the crisis that is higher education funding.” nalliegr@ramapo.edu

photo courtesy of Laura Hahn

SGAʼs Higher Education Advocacy Committee is planning a speak-out campain called “Tell It Like It Is” as part of the NJUSʼs Day of Action.

Students Lobby on Capitol Hill for International Education

By NICOLE ALLIEGRO News Editor

The Ramapo College Global Roadrunners, five students who serve as mentors to others that want to study abroad, and members SGA’s Higher Education Committee met with legislators in Washington, D.C. over spring break as part of an “Advocacy Day” conference hosted by the Association of International Educators. The event focused on support for international education.

During the first part of the two-day conference, the attendees were given tips for lobbying, statistics on international education, and three briefings on meeting with the legislators. The Ramapo group teamed up with delegates from New York, and one from Farleigh Dickinson University, to meet with Senator Frank Lautenberg and Senator Robert Menendez.

“It was really an empowering experience to get to meet with Senator Menendez and discuss the issues facing international education today,” said Brendan Flanagan. “The Senator and his staff were very receptive and I truly felt my voice was not only being heard, but considered deeply in the Senator’s actions.”

fiscal year budget, and the Senator Paul Simon Study Abroad Act. The Association of International Educators pushed for support for immigration reform that maximizes benefits to international education and enhances economic growth. Also, they argued that approval of the Simon Act will ensure that a significant number of students will graduate with the international knowledge and experience for today’s global economy.

The group plans to create a slideshow on Advocacy Day, which will not only be presented to the Foundation and Board of Trustees later this month, but will be used as a marketing tool to encourage more students to study abroad. For more information about studying abroad or Advocacy Day, visit the Roukema Center in ASB-123 or email goabroad@ramapo.edu. nalliegr@ramapo.edu

“It was a really empowering experience to get to meet with Senator Menendez and discuss the issues facing international eduation today. The Senator and his staff were very receptive and I truly felt my voice was not only being heard, but considered deeply in the Senator’s actions.”

-Brendan Flanagan, Global Roadrunner

Director of Study Abroad Ben Levy, along with Study Abroad advisor Kate Godfrey, got the students together the night before the meetings to strategize and plan out who would be speaking and on what talking points.

Flanagan felt that this was a helpful discussion.

“Our brainstorming session was a remarkable experience for me as a student mentor for study abroad,” he said. “It was the first time I’d ever felt like I was actually conveying how great of an experience studying abroad is to people who had never gone themselves. The fact that it took three hours just shows how complex and incredible of an experience this is.”

The Global Roadrunners spoke about their experiences studying abroad and used their personal anecdotes as lobbying tools. The four students from the Higher Education Advocacy Committee argued on the role that international education plays in academics.

The conference attendees were briefed on three main issues: immigration reform, the 2012

photo courtesy of Laura Hahn

Ramapo students pose with Senator Robert Menendez and a New York representative at the “Advocacy Day” Conference in Washington, D.C.

Page 5 The Ramapo News

Thursday, April 14, 2011

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Students, Teachers Discuss Potential Tuition Increases

Page 6 The Ramapo News

Thursday, April 14, 2011

continued from page 1

photo by Mike Jagendorf

Haiti Tent-a-Thon Gives Back

Students camped out on the Laurel Courts in the Haiti Tent-a-Thon and participated in sports and other activities over the two-day event.

continued from page 1

and rebuild.

Students who wished to camp out or participate in the activities donated $5 each.

More money was raised at the campout from food sales, a donation box, and the sale of T-shirts that said “Camp 4 Haiti.”

In all, $1069 was raised. All the expenses of the event were covered: SGA gave $400 for the hot dog cart, McHugh’s father, who works for Frito Lay, donated the chips they sold, and Yoga Club allocated money for the DJ. Individual students provided some tents, one was lent by a professor, and one was given by a student’s parents, who wanted it to go to Haiti after the event.

“It was extremely cold and almost impossible to sleep comfortably,” said Brenda Slazyk, sophomore. “Camping out really made me appreciate the everyday things we all take for granted, like heat and a bed to

sleep in. It’s good to see things from a different perspective once in a while.”

Diana Stanczak, also a sophomore, toughed out the cold in a tent with three of her friends until 5:00 a.m. Friday.

“I knew it was supposed to be cold that night, but I decided to go through with it anyway to support the event,” she said.

“The evening was fun. We ate chips and salsa from Moe’s, drank hot chocolate and played board games.”

The campout was called off Friday night because of the cold, but activities continued throughout the day.

“It was definitely more successful than I expected,” said McHugh. “We hope to do it again next year; maybe in the fall when it’s warmer.”

“It’s always good to see Ramapo giving back,” said Chikara Iwuagwu, a senior. mjagendo@ramapo.edu

Christie’s proposed plan to remove the cap on how much tuition in the state can be increased annually was introduced. For Danielle Koehler, freshman, a possible tuition increase poses a big problem.

“Throughout the year I have to find jobs to pay for tuition,” Koehler said. “My parents aren’t paying for college.”

Some students like freshman Nick Calabrase think it’s a matter of a feeling of helplessness.

“I’m not quite happy with [tuition increasing], but I don’t think I can do too much about it,” Calabrase said.

Those who do take the initiative to speak out against the administration, Calabrase explained, don’t go about it the right way.

“I feel like the student body doesn’t address things in a mature manner,” Calabrase said.

Among the other ideas discussed were peaceful protests and even the “take over” of a campus building like the Berrie Center.

The coalition did their best to reassure students that any protest would be done properly and nonviolently.

Yesterday morning students representing the coalition met with President Mercer to discuss how they could work with the administration to fight against the tuition increases. Students first addressed the president about parking ticketing. A new system of parking violations was proposed, one with lower fees and an issuing of a warning on a first offense. While President Mercer didn’t say for sure if he would address the

problem directly, he did seem interested in finding a solution that would best benefit both faculty and students.

When the tuition increases and the need to form an opposition was brought up, President Mercer responded saying, “I’m with you there.” He admitted that Ramapo receives less financial help than other colleges, and his only rationale for it was historical precedent. Ramapo has always received less money than other public New Jersey since 1994, and the state government hasn’t seen a need to increase funding since then.

“I’d like to see more student concern,” Mercer said.

The lack of student involvement in this issue can be attributed to the fact that many aren’t paying out of their own pockets to attend college—their parents are. For Tom Halligan, a freshman, this is very much a reality.

“I’m not really that bothered by it because my parents pay for everything,” Halligan said. “Sucks for them, I guess.”

President Mercer’s main piece of advice to students is to organize on campus and with other public schools across the state. With the movement gaining more support from students and faculty members, and President Mercer supporting a fight against the state, the issue seems to be gaining momentum.

According to President Mercer, there will be a budget forum on May 2 for those interested in attending.

THANK YOU TO ALL OUR STUDENT WORKERS! NATIONAL STUDENT EMPLOYMENT WEEK APRIL 10 – 16

National Student Employment Week was established to honor student workers all over the country.

Over 800 student employees play a very important role in the daily operation of Ramapo College. Unit supervisors and the Student Assistant Program provide students career-enhancing opportunities, the ability to develop skills relevant in any career and better preparation for the job market upon graduation.

Ramapo College administrators, staff, faculty and fellow students thank you for your outstanding contributions to the Ramapo College community!

Language Lab Assistant

Library Assistant

Costume Shop Assistants

givins@ramapo.edu

VIEW POINTS

Thursday, April 14, 2011

Campus views are the sole opinion of their respective authors, submitted to The Ramapo News and in no way reflect the views of either The Ramapo News or Ramapo College of New Jersey.

A Senior’s Perspective: How to Survive Ramapo

By DAVE JONES Staff Writer

A wise man once told me “college is not a sprint, it is a marathon.” As a soon to be graduate of Ramapo College (thank God!), I thought I would take the time to impart some wisdom on the Ramapo College student body. Some of the lessons were expected, while others were not. All of them, though, will guide me as I move ahead in my career beyond Ramapo. So with out further ado, I present my five tips to surviving your college career, Ramapo style.

Academics First While popular movies such as “Animal House,” “Van Wilder” and “American Pie” depict college as one big party, the reality of college is that students are there to be educated. According to American College Testing (ACT), nearly half of all freshmen will either transfer schools or drop out before getting a degree at all, and this is a staggering number. When a young adult enters college, that student (or most likely their parents) are making an investment in their future, and it is important to be mindful of that the next time they are invited to a big party and have a big exam the next day.

There can be a balance between partying and academics.

Unfortunately, too many college students get overly consumed by alcohol, parties, and romantic interests. I’ve seen this consumption lead to smart, intellectual people’s grades Make sure your priorities are in order when away at college,

especially since for most freshmen it will be the first time “on your own” away from home.

Manage your time One of the biggest mistakes I see many college students make, not just freshmen, is failing to manage their time effectively. Many people believe that since most Ramapo students only take four classes per semester, they will have plenty of time to get work done. However, when you start to factor in work and a social life, the hours add up quickly. If you are not diligent with time management, it will be very easy to feel overwhelmed and get burned out.

Stay Organized Nothing is worse then not doing an assignment you had due because you couldn’t find a particular handout or article.

Some ideas that I have found useful include color coding notebooks by days, hanging up your class schedule on a tack board, and writing down all commitments (jobs, classes, etc) on a schedule. From my own experience, I have found that seeing your schedule in front of your eyes is a good way to judge how much time you need to give to each task or assignment. Emailing classmates when you miss class is another way to stay on top of your assignments without constantly asking you professor, who may or may not be helpful.

Schedule Wisely While many freshmen get stuck with whichever classes are open when making their schedules, there are some things

one can do to make their schedule a bit easier to handle.

Scheduling a class (or classes) with a friend is a good way to stay on track during the semester. Also, if a student must miss a class at some point, having a buddy in the class will help that individual catch up with notes and assignments they may have missed. Additionally, finding a good balance of classes per day is important. Having at least one day off during the week will give you have more time to study, work on long term projects, or even just relax and recover.

Get the cheapest meal plan As most of you reading this article can probably attest to, the quality of food at the Pavilion or Birch is not exactly the best. Even though late night dining at the Birch comes in handy now and then, your best bet is to overload on flex money and eat at the Pay Caf. For those of you that really hate the food, there are a number of options in Mahwah and on Route 17 that will satisfy every last taste bud.

Having fun is important in college, yes, but the academics should take precedent. College after all is an investment in your future. Do not waste the opportunity by trying to become the next great beer pong or flip cup champ because that will only get you so far. After all, winning the marathon is more important than the sprint.

Plan B: Is Ramapo Health Services on Board?

By CAITLIN KENNY Feminists United Member

In the fall of 2009, a female student went to campus Health Services requesting Plan B. Her inability to receive an immediate appointment was the source of frustration, and as word spread about her experience, students began to talk about the accessibility of Plan B on campus.

The drug Plan B is an FDA-approved emergency contraceptive that can help prevent a pregnancy after contraceptive failure or unprotected intercourse. Studies show it can be up to 84 percent effective when taken within 72-hours. According to Princeton University’s Website, Plan B “is more effective the sooner you take it after sex”. Plan B is not an abortion pill and will have no effect if someone is already pregnant. Therefore it is the manufacturer’s recommendation and Ramapo’s stated procedure, that it be taken “as soon as possible.”

Through an email interview, the student, who requested to remain anonymous, recounted her story.

“I presented at Health Services on a Friday morning around 11 […] I needed an appointment and [was told] they were completely booked up for the day.” She added, “I had taken all the precautions to keep myself protected during intercourse and a broken condom was the reason why I sought Plan B…I was lucky enough to have a car on campus and the $50 to spend to get Plan B at a local CVS, but all I could think about was how

someone who was less fortunate might have felt.”

Feminists United scheduled a meeting with Health Services on the student’s behalf.

“We were told that this occurrence was a fluke and if a similar scenario played out in the future, the student would be given the option of waiting at Health Services until she could be seen,” President of Feminists United, Jill Grimaldi said.

Due to understaffing and restricted hours, students may experience difficulty receiving an immediate appointment. For example, in September of 2010, a student came to the Women’s Center requesting help obtaining Plan B. Graduate Assistant Lauren Tabbaccino called Health Services to schedule an appointment, and was told it was not realistic for the student to wait for an appointment that day. Plan B is not classified as a medical emergency, so the student could not be seen because there were no available appointments.

While the student was eventually seen, Health Services explained that their policies regarding Plan B, while they do their best to see students within the 72-hour window, allow them to make students wait for an appointment.

Women’s Center employee Becky Garrabrant says, “If students are unaware that the policy of Health Services is that they will be seen within 72 hours, or if they do not know that Plan B must be taken within 72 hours, this could create some issues. Part of the reason Health Services requires an appointment is to discuss the reason the stu-

dent needs Plan B and to provide them with safer sex information and resources.

Grimaldi points out that although intrinsic to Health Services’ mission, this procedure may interfere with students’ ability to receive attention “as soon as possible.” She added, “the current system leaves too much room to turn students away. We want to work with Health Services to come up with a solution that helps everyone.”

One proposed solution is to hire another staff member for next year, which Health Services is currently investigating. This would enable students to be seen more quickly. In the meantime, Grimaldi says, Feminists United has suggested training Women’s Center or Counseling Services staff to conduct the pre-pill counseling, to relieve some of Health Service’s strain.

Another option would be to develop a system in which students are required to “return for a follow-up meeting about the information that isn’t vital to give out before dispensing the pill (like contraceptive education).” This allows students to take Plan B immediately, while still benefiting from talking with healthcare professionals.

Grimaldi said they are waiting to receive feedback on the 2010 proposals. Students hope this will open dialogue to students who feel they face an emergency situation, and don’t have the means to obtain Plan B off campus.

ckenny2@ramapo.edu

djones@ramapo.edu

Have something to say? Submit your letter to the editor editor.rcnjnews @gmail.com

Don’t forget to follow and friend us! @RamapoNews

Blue Dude With a ‘Tude

The Birds

Vinny Parisi previews a new game starring an old character.

Page 10

Stephanie de Ruiter reviews Ramapoʼs latest student theater performance, “The Birds.”

Page 11

B.o.B. Brings the Magic to Ramapo 4. 14. 11

Rapper Puts on Energetic, Engaging Performance

Photo by Sandy Stucki

Photo by Michael Rosania

Atlanta rapper B.o.B. (right) performed at Ramapo last Friday for a crowd of over 700 people. After a 20-minute set from his opening act, Playboy Tre (left), B.o.B. took the stage and gave the audience a highly energetic performance, showcasing his talents not only as a rapper, but as an entertainer.

BY DIANA S TANCZAK A&E Editor

Last Friday night, the Bradley Center’s main gym was transformed into a premier concert venue when more than 700 people came together to watch rapper B.o.B. perform. Playboy Tre, B.o.B.’s opening act, warmed the crowd up with an energetic twenty-minute set. Later, the two thrilled the audience when they came together to perform “Voltage.”

The Atlanta artist knows how to put on a great show. From the first notes of his opening song, “Beast Mode,” B.o.B.’s energy and intensity was sky-high. Dancing, jumping, crowd surfing – the show was interactive, and the audience loved it.

In addition to performing hit singles like “Magic,” “Airplanes, and “Nothin’ on You,” off his debut album “B.o.B. Presents: The Adventures of Bobby Ray,” B.o.B also introduced some songs off of his latest mixtape, “No Genre.”

B.o.B. ended the night with an unexpected cover of “Kids” by MGMT. The crowd was a sea of cell phones and lighters as B.o.B. truly embodied the message of “No Genre” and displayed his talent not only as a rapper, but as an entertainer.

After the show, B.o.B. sat down with the editors of “the Ramapo News” for an inter-

view and to talk about his music and fan base, and even shared some personal tidbits.

Ramapo News: What ki nd of vi be di d you get out of thi s show? What’s i t l i ke pl ayi ng for a smal l col l ege l i ke Ramapo compared to a bi gger school or venue?

B. o. B. : In terms of the energy, it doesn’t really matter the size of the school because I feel like at every college the fan base kind of speaks for the crowd. It doesn’t have to be a…super Division I school for it to be a super energetic crowd. It’s usually the smaller schools that have the more energy, that are more appreciative.

RN:How l ong have you been touri ng for?

B. o. B. : I’ve been touring…for about 18 months probably.

RN: When’s your next al bum comi ng out?

B. o. B. :I don’t have a release date. But even if it doesn’t come out this year, I’m releasing new music this year.

RN: Who are you pl anni ng to col l aborate wi th?

B. o. B. :I can’t tell you that! That will ruin

the excitement.

RN: Can you tel l us how you chose whi ch arti sts to col l aborate wi th on your debut al bum?

B. o. B. : On the debut album…I wanted to make sure that Playboy Trey and T.I. got on my album. I wanted to make sure Lupe was on my album. I wanted to work with Janelle Monae; we actually talked before we did the song. I always wanted to work with Paramore, I got Hayley [Williams] but I wanted to do something with…the band.

RN: I heard you never actual l y met Hayl ey from Paramore.

B. o. B. : Not until the VMAs [Video Music Awards]. At the rehearsal for the VMAs is when I first met her. We couldn’t even shoot the video at the same time.

RN: I was readi ng your tweets before the show, you menti oned that some peopl e thi nk you never l i stened to Paramore before col l aborati ng wi th Hayl ey.

B. o. B. :It’s…as if I was just placed on the song and didn’t know who she [Hayley] was or something. I feel like it takes chemistry to make something.

RN: What’s your i deal Fri day ni ght when you’re not touri ng?

B. o. B. : This is a Friday night. An ideal Friday night would be to go party after a show. Being in college, similar age group, you know. There’s a party going on somewhere.

RN: Who are your i nfl uences?

B. o. B. : Cap’n Crunch, Tickle Me Elmo and Stewie from Family Guy.

RN: Real l y? Let’s move on to the fun stuff. Facebook or Twi tter?

B. o. B. : I’m on Twitter. I deleted my Facebook, it got a little bit too crazy.

Twitter’s like, you don’t have to worry about all your business.

RN: Are you si ngl e or taken?

B. o. B. : Taken? From what?

RN: You know, do you have a gi rl fri end? Are you i n a rel ati onshi p?

B. o. B. : If you want me to be, I guess.

RN: Any l ast comments?

B. o. B. : I want to thank all the fans out there, I want to thank everyone who attended the show. dstancza@ramapo.edu

‘Birds’ at the Berrie Center

Page 9 The Ramapo News

Thursday, April 14, 2011

Photo by Sandy Stucki

Ramapo Collegeʼs theater programʼs latest play “The Birds,” an adaptation of Aristophanesʼ play, tells the journey of two mortal men who went to find the King of the Birds in order to create a city to block manʼs prayers from the gods. For the full story, see page 11.

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SEGA’s Most Famous Character Returns in New Game Page 10 The Ramapo News

Thursday, April 14, 2011

By VINNY PARIS I Staff Writer

Video game developer SEGA is known around the world.

To fans of all ages, the company’s trademark blue-font logo and unique jingle brings about a strong sense of nostalgia.

But there is one familiar icon known to gamers far and wide, a mascot who most clearly embodies SEGA. So much so, that when people hear the classic “SEGA” shout they immediately picture him. He goes by many nicknames, but most know him as Sonic the Hedgehog.

Sonic first debuted back in 1991 on the SEGA Genesis console. Taking the world by storm, and even upstaging the great Mario for a time, “Mr. Blast Processing,” a term coined

by SEGA which referred to the fact that the Genesis had faster processing speeds than the Super Nintendo, captivated the gaming scene with fast-paced platforming and adrenalinepumping music.

Over the years, the Sonic brand has branched out into almost every entertainment medium possible. Sonic has starred in numerous cartoons, an animated film, dominated the video game music genre with memorable rock tunes and has been plastered on every type of clothing and accessory imaginable, all while successfully making the transition to new consoles and 3-D game worlds.

To celebrate his 20th Anniversary, SEGA recently announced “Sonic Generations,” a brand-new adventure.

Photo courtesy of Flickr Creative Commons

One of the most well-known characters among the video game world, Sonic the Hedgehog will be debuting in yet another game called “Sonic Generations.”

While no details were formally announced, a teaser trailer is currently posted on Sonic’s Facebook page. The announcement trailer is only about a minute long and shows the “Blue Blur” dashing through a mostly colorless world until he takes a leap of faith off a ledge at full speed. In mid-air he is joined by a companion, another Sonic, only this one is a 3-D rendering of the way Sonic used to look back when he

was first created. After landing on solid ground, the two glance at each other and race off.

So, what does this mean? The first possibility is that the new game could simply be a compilation of some of Sonic’s most memorable games. However, given the hype SEGA is trying to build around the new title, that seems unlikely.

More likely, the game is that “Generations” will incorporate elements and styles from previous adventures and combine them in a way that’s never been done before.

This would mean creating a mash-up of sorts, allowing the “Blue dude with a ’tude” to race across some of his most memorable stages like Green Hill Zone and Carnival Zone in 2-D side-scrolling fashion, before switching to a more recently designed 3-D level.

Along the way, gamers would potentially be playing as different incarnations of Sonic throughout his 20-year history.

One thing is certain though: while Sonic may look different, one aspect of his games has always stayed consistent. As his catchphrase goes, “Sonic’s my name, speed’s my game.”

Even though there is little known at this point, SEGA did announce a target release window. “Sonic Generations” will speed into stores sometime in 2011 and will be available for both the Microsoft Xbox 360 and Sony PlayStation 3.

When released, the game will likely retail for $59.99. vparisi@ramapo.edu

Going Green: Clean Up Your Kitchen’s Carbon Footprint

By CLAIRE CHAPEL Staff Writer

April is our Earth month, and there’s no better way to celebrate than by making an effort to go green. This is part two of a three-week series about simple ways you can do your part to help save the earth. Last week’s article discussed preserving energy in your dorm room, and this week’s topic is all about how to go green through the foods we eat and through our cooking techniques.

Not every dorm on campus has a kitchen to cook in, but with the semester ending in just about three short weeks, these tips offer great ways to be more eco-friendly in the dorm and at home.

What types of food are eco-friendly?

Deciding what foods are eco-friendly seems to be a hot topic everywhere; even President Obama has an organic garden on the White House lawn to select vegetables from. Our Ramapo campus was fortunate enough to plant an organic garden as well.

One way to go green when eating would be to switch to organic products. These foods are better because they eliminate the use of animal-based fertilizers along with harmful pesticides. This may not be the most budget friendly for the

commonly broke college student, but it would help out our Mother Earth in a big way.

Another way to get eco-friendly foods is to buy produce locally from a farmer’s market or community market close by to your home rather than a supermarket. Besides providing you with more eco-friendly food, a local market may be closer to your home than the supermarket, helping you use less gas driving. Also, when the weather is nicer you could even ride your bike there which would reduce your carbon footprint in an enormous way, and you’d even get in a little exercise as well.

Now that I have my organic food, how do I cook it in an sustainable manner?

Clearly many college students do not have thousands of dollars to go out and buy the latest high tech kitchen appliances that claim to be eco-friendly. Even without expensive appliances, it is actually very simple to be eco-friendly when cooking.

The simplest way to reduce your carbon footprint in the kitchen is to put a lid on the pan or pot that you are cooking or boiling things in. Use a lid even on a pot just boiling water for pasta. This reduces the cooking time on the foods because it traps the heat inside which shortens the cooking time, using less energy. Also, for those of you who absolutely hate cleaning after cooking, using a lid eliminates a lot of splattering of cooking oils which means much less time cleaning up.

but they cook a wide variety of foods in under ten minutes!

What could possibly be more eco friendly than that? There are even special cookbooks out there now that feature recipes just for pressure cookers.

Another appliance that uses less energy than the oven is a slow cooker. It’s not as quick as the pressure cooker but it is still pretty decent when it comes to using less energy. If you do not have access to these appliances you can consider making one-dish meals. One delicious example for those of you who can’t get enough of Hibachi style food is a stir-fry! Just whip up some oil, veggies, spices and meat and you have yourself a delicious meal all made in just one pan. cchapel@ramapo.edu

What cooking appliances use the least amount of energy?

There are some appliances that use less energy in the kitchen than others. For example the microwave uses the least amount. So for all of us college students who practically live on microwavable Easy Mac, Hot Pockets and Lean Cuisines, we are already ahead of the game being eco-friendly with appliances.

Another appliance that is more friendly to the environment that you may have around your house is a pressure cooker.

They are not very easy to use and may take a little practice,

Flickr Creative Commons

Audiences Flock to See Students Perform ‘The Birds’

Page 11 The Ramapo News

Thursday, April 14, 2011

By S TEPHANIE de RUITER Staff Writer

Every semester, Ramapo theater majors perform about three or four productions for the college. Their latest play, taking place in the Berrie Center’s Sharpt Theater, is the Greek comedy “The Birds.” The play was adapted from the play by Aristophanes and was directed by Greg Steinbruner, a professional actor, director, producer and playwright practicing in New York.

Production on the play began as soon as the spring semester started. “The Birds” follows two mortal men who travel to find Epops, king of the birds. They want to give the birds the idea of creating a town in the sky in order to block man’s prayers and sacrifices to the gods, ultimately creating gods out of the birds and angering the once worshiped gods above.

“The play has so much satire in it that was relevant to Aristophanes era and our own life style today,” freshman Dan Kropa said. “Greg just found that connection and applied it to our generation.”

“All the rehearsals spent just walking around like a bird were hilarious and helpful.”

-Dan Kropa, freshman

Like the play “Trojan Women” that was performed last semester, the audience sits directly on stage during “The Birds,” bringing the performances up close and basically integrating the audience into the play. The play is in fact interrupted several times to bring the audience into the production. The adaptation also integrated musical numbers allowing actors to not only show off their acting skills, but their voices as well.

About 12 to 15 creative bird costumes were featured in the play, each designed by Ramapo College theater professor Beba Shamash and included students dressed as a pink flamingo, a beautiful nightingale, several pigeons and a vul-

Photo by Sandy Stucki

Ramapoʼs theater students have added “The Birds,” an adaptation of the play by Aristophanes, to their list of college performances.

ture just to name a few.

“I loved being a bird,” Kropa said. “All the rehearsals spent just walking around like a bird, were hilarious and helpful.”

Another intriguing aspect of the production is the use of a video camera and pre-recorded film clips; this added to the dynamic of the set design as well as to the story itself. The integration of film also added some modernity and many laughs as the birds discovered this means of communication.

Overall the production was satirical, amusing, at parts ambiguous and a bit dark, but it all came together really well.

Audiences were impressed.

“I drove an hour and a half to support my friend Ali,” Brittany Leininger said. “It’s so fun, I’m glad we came, the

costumes are awesome and the voices are amazing.”

During the 10 minute intermission viewers commented on how great the performances were, the awesome set design and the well accepted overall presentation.

“I think the performance was amazing,” Kropa said. “Greg had these ideas that seemed almost impossible to achieve, yet he made them happen.”

The final performances of “The Birds” will take place Thursday and Friday April 14 and 15 at 8 p.m. sderuite@ramapo.edu

‘Hanna’ Engages, but Audiences Are Left Wanting More

By JEREMY KELLY Staff Writer

In 2008, 13-year-old Saoirse Ronan received an Academy Award nomination for what was only her second professional film, Joe Wright’s critically acclaimed “Atonement.” Now having just turned 17, Ronan reunites with Wright in “Hanna,” which hit theaters this past Friday.

Ronan stars as 16-year-old protagonist Hanna, who has lived with her father Erik Heller (Eric Bana) in a cabin in Finland sincer her mother died. She’s been taught handto-hand combat, archery and gun training in order to defend herself against the cold and conniving Marissa Wiegler (Cate Blanchett), a corrupt CIA agent who will stop at nothing to find them both.

Hanna claims she’s “ready” to fight Marissa. She turns on an electronic transmitter, which sends out a signal of her location to Marissa, and allowing herself to be captured, and subsequently questioned by CIA officials. Because we are still in the first act, Hanna unsurprisingly escapes. After this, the film becomes something of a road trip movie as she comes across a family of tourists in her attempt to get to Berlin to reunite with Erik.

Surprisingly funny scenarios ensue here.

Because Hanna has grown up in isolation without modern technology, many relatively ordinary concepts, like electricity, are alien to her. Conversations with the tourists are

even more awkward. As they have a casual dinner conversation, the father asks her how her mother died; she calmly responds, “three bullets.” While Ronan is convincing in these scenes, the other characters get pretty grating. Though Hanna becomes friends with the daughter Sophie (Jessica Barden), these scenes rarely feel like anything more than filler.

It’s not just these scenes that suffer like this, however. Our antagonist Marissa has several people at her disposal in attempts to find the girl and her father. It’s difficult to find these characters threatening, and it seems that Cate Blanchett is the only villain we want to see; she’s so memorably despicable as that character we love to hate.

At some point, we get the inevitable plot twist that we see in nearly every thriller film nowadays, where the main character discovers that nearly everything she knows is a lie.

It’s not exactly shocking, but it is interesting the way they put certain plot elements together.

The cinematography is memorable in two ways. It has great use of long takes, where the camera stays on the action for an extended amount of time without cutting to the next shot and this is especially true for the fight scenes, which are done well. However, there are also gimmicky shots, which don’t add anything to the film and seem unnecessary.

Overall, “Hanna” features another strong

photo courtesy of Flickr Creative Commons

Saoirse Ronan stars as title character Hanna, a teenage assassin in the new movie “Hanna.”

performance from Ronan and a story that is genuinely interesting. But for all that’s happening and all that the movie builds up to, there isn’t much payoff or resolution. For example, we never really learn what happens to the tourist family and the ending itself leaves a lot to be desired, but it can be said that the mark of a good film is that you don’t want to see it end.

“Hanna” finished at number two at the box office in its first weekend behind “Hop,” as it grossed $12.3 million. Ronan has a strong career ahead of her; she’s set to star in a film adaptation of the novel “The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle” and is in

talks to star in “The Hobbit.” While most of her fellow actresses are putting themselves in romantic comedies, Ronan continues to test herself, and she does it quite well.

RATING:

###$$

jkelly7@ramapo.edu

Page 12 The Ramapo News

LIFE & CULTURE

Thursday, April 14, 2011

Add Intensity to Your Workout with Bikram Yoga

BY AMY FEZZA Managing Editor

“Breathe in and out, relax your mind and your body,” is just one of the many common instructions given by an instructor in a typical yoga class. Yoga mats placed throughout the room occupied by composed students performing various poses in a tranquil atmosphere is what usually comes to mind when one thinks of a typical yoga class.

However, not all yoga classes are as relaxing and calming as some people envision.

Bikram Yoga of Westwood is one that definitely sets the bar for a whole new concept of what tranquility is and can be.

Rather than performing a downward dog, tree and/or warrior pose in a refined manner, Bikram instructs these poses in 105 degree temperature room. Running for around 90 minutes a class, a combination of 26 poses and postures, as well as two breathing exercises are practiced during a single session.

Bikram incorporates the traditional Asanas postures, which have been practiced for many years. Bikram may seem impossible to some, incorporating beginner to intermediate levels of poses with its stifling heat conditions, but is possible for anyone willing to try.

Bikram Yoga is a yoga form which had originated from the Bengal region of India dating back all the way to 1500 BC. Many years later, this type of Hatha Yoga has

become one of the latest crazes for Bergen County residents and has transcended into more of a typical form, rather than atypical.

Both physical and mental benefits are gained from this form of yoga. Through various poses performed involving intense stretching in blistering room temperatures, bones, joints, muscles, tendons and ligaments are just a few parts of the body that receive physical benefits. Other benefits include mental exercise through an intense level of dedication and determination involved in just conquering an hour and a half class. Through determination, levels of anxiety, stress and depression lessen and positive energy increases.

This form of yoga found its way into the Bergen County area around nine years ago and has remained a popular type ever since.

As opposed to other yoga branches such as Raja, Karma, Jnana, Bhkati and Hatha, Bikram’s form of yoga tends to be a more unconventional style, but aims to create a healthier lifestyle in more ways than one would think.

“Bikram focuses on one healing themselves after an illness or injury, to help them re-discover the healthy person they once were and to challenge those who are looking for something more in their life,” according to Bikramyoganj.com Some people may be hesitant when it comes to such an intimidating style with high temperatures and strenuous poses, but

Magenta’s Meals

BY LAUREN MAGENTA Staff Writer

You may not have been able to make it all the way to Paris for spring break but now you can bring Paris to your dorm room. In 10 minutes you can make your very own crêpes and fill them however you would like. Just like last weeks quesadillas, by cooking them one at a time you can satisfy everyone’s cravings, which is necessary in a dorm room setting and the best part is they can be eaten at any time.

If you are looking for a hearty meal you can fill your crêpe with some commons fillings such as cheese, asparagus, ham, spinach, eggs, ratatouille and or mushrooms. Any mix of those would be a filling meal or snack.

On the other hand sweet crêpes are also very poplar. Using the same batter but adding fruits, custards, whipped creams and even nutella can make for a delicious dessert or snack.

Batter ½ cup all-purpose flour 1 egg ¼ cup milk ¼ cup water a pinch of salt 1 tablespoon butter /melted To make crêpes pour the thin liquid batter

many are able to feel a bit at ease due to the confidence instilled by instructors in the classes to their wide range of students.

“As an instructor, my main objective is to give a student the best possible experience each time,” instructor at Bikram Yoga, Jessica Lopez said. “I encourage them, challenge them and they learn about themselves through yoga.”

Through the demographic at Bikram ranging anywhere from 20-60 years old, students come and go, but instructors take notice of who benefits from it the most at the end of a session.

“Some stick with it and some come and go,” Lopez said. “But we are just guides for the students to dig deep and find the motivation, whatever age. Watching the transformation that happens with people, seeing them feel challenged and leaves feeling energized.

All in all the main objective of Bikram Yoga, like any yoga class is to create a better mindset and a healthier lifestyle. Taking the overall style and determination provided in the studio to the outside aspect of one’s everyday life is just another benefit aimed for all Bikram students to incorporate.

“Some use Bikram as a form of exercise, some use it for balance, but it’s actually very healing and a great balance for all different types of activities,” Lopez said. “If you feel better afterwards, you’ll do better and treat people better—Bikram can be a ripple

effect.”

With over 100 different locations throughout the Garden State, Jersey residents have a wide range of forms to choose from.

Locations in New Jersey also include Wyckoff/Franklin Lakes and Rutherford.

Ari es (March 21-Apri l 19) You are wondering if you have what it takes to do what you need to do. Move into this week ready to learn and determined to finally move past a lingering piece of resistance.

what is causing the personal injury. Tackle it with courage and the benefit will be yours.

Photo courtesy of Flickr Creative Commons

onto a hot frying pan over medium heat.

Note, if your batter looks like pancake batter it is too thick so you need to add more milk and water. Use just enough butter to cover the pan. Spread the batter evenly over the pan by either tilting the pan or distributing it was a spatula. Just like a pancake, flip the crêpe after it begins to bubble. Once fully cooked on both sides, plate and stuff with your desired fillings! lmagenta@ramapo.edu

•Wear light workout clothing •Bring a yoga mat, large towel and water (All can be purchased or rented at the studio) •Eat something light at least one hour before class •Arrive 15 minutes early before scheduled session For more contact information call (201)594-9642

Horoscopes

Taurus (Apri l 20-May 20) You have an impulse to initiate all that you are imagining into reality. Someone may put a kink in your plan this week, but you will find an alternative route.

Crepes are a great food whether you are looking for a meal or something sweet.

Things to keep in mind before attending a Bikram Yoga class:

Gemi ni (May 21-June 20) This week, things will be taken to new emotionally charged heights. If you can pace yourself and resist the rush, the perfect moment for you to strike will arrive.

Cancer (June 21-Jul y 22) As much as you are aching for some peace and harmony, someone isn’t backing down.

This week you will need to find a certain piece of strength, all while keeping your heart open.

Leo (Jul y 23-August 23) This week it is vital to be able to fight for what you believe in. This week you will determine what thoughts are getting in the way of the inner peace that you crave.

Vi rgo (August 24-S eptember 22) You can only do so much. This week you need to save your energy for what matters most, versus trying to do it all.

Li bra (S eptember 23-October 22) This week you will be forced to face head on

afezza@ramapo.edu

S corpi o (October 23-November 21) Recently, there are things that have been getting under your skin. Find your resting place and you will rise above whatever is bringing you down.

S agi ttari us (November 22December 21) Find a way to review your growth and you will feel a core strength return. This week is going to offer you the camera you need to see the truth of how far you have come Capri corn (December 22-January 19) This week, what is more important than feeling good is simply feeling through whatever is rising up from within. There is a light at the end of this haywire.

Aquari us (January 20- February 19) Your mind is racing with ideas but you are unsure if your strategy will work. This week, you will seesomething you previously overlooked that will help you succeed.

Pi sces (February 20-March 20) Simply believing is not enough to participate in making life-altering magic happen.

This week, you will see that the only thing between you and where you desire to go is fear.

Horoscopes courtesy of madalynaslan.com

SPORTS

Men’s Baseball Breathes New Life into Season 4 . 14 . 11

Roadrunners off to Blazing 16-6 Start Due to Revamped Policy

By REBECCA PENHAKER Staff Writer

The men’s baseball team is off to a scorching start this spring season, starting 16-6. This year’s squad is hoping to make a big turnaround statement from last year, when they finished an underwhelming 20-18. Coach Rich Martin credits this season’s success to two key changes he made over the off-season.

First, he revamped his coaching staff -- adding former Roadrunner standout Doug Aday as the assistant hitting and fielding coach, as well as promoting Josh Epstein as the full-time pitching coach. Martin’s second order of business to leading his team to a successful year was to institute random drug testing for his athletes.

At the end of last season, Martin was disappointed with his team’s performance. He believed with the amount of talent on the field, there was no reason for such underachievement. Martin was upset with himself, and with his team, for not being able to figure out the cause for such a shoddy season.

“This group found out it’s a privilege to represent Ramapo College as an athlete. They must do well socially, in class, and appreciate wearing those letters on their chest.”

-Rich Martin, coach

Martin turned to his players for their team’s struggles. It was during these player/coaches meetings he was informed that some of his players were coming to the field clouded by impaired judgment.

“I realized some guys weren’t giving 100 percent in their preparation because they were abusing drugs and alcohol,” Martin said. “How bad was it? Bad enough that we needed to clean house and make it clear that drug and alcohol abuse is not tolerated.”

At the beginning of the 2010 fall season in September, Martin tested his 50 athletes for opiates, cocaine, PCP, marijuana and amphetamines. Seventeen tested positive.

“A great majority of them left then when they realized we were serious about doing this,” Martin said. “When we retested the remaining guys two weeks later, and the tests came back 100 percent negative, it indicated to me that this would work.”

The protocol for testing positive means that the players have 30 days to retest and test negative; as well as, receive counseling from psychological counselor and coordinator of substance abuse and violence prevention, Cory Rosenkranz. If they test positive again, they are suspended 15 games. If they test positive for a third time, they are suspended indefinitely.

Coming back from winter break, Martin held a random drug test, and according to Martin, another handful of players tested positive.

However, when he retested them again, all the tests came back negative.

“We lost about nine guys in all because they

either weren’t able to pass the tests, or they didn’t want to be tested,” Martin said. “We lost a significant amount of talent.”

With so much talent gone, Martin went to Eugene Marshall, the athletic director, to let him know that he was not sure how this season would play out because of the loss of players.

However, these redefined and refocused Roadrunners proved during their stay in Florida over spring break that they were a team that could hold their own, winning their first seven games, and finishing out the tournament 7-2.

They have kept their Florida momentum going strong and are continuing to demand respect from around the league.

“When all the dust settled, it was evident we had a special attitude and camaraderie,” Martin said. “It’s really wonderful that the guys have reacted like this. And the fact that we’ve been successful makes it all the more rewarding.”

Martin attributes the success of his drug free program to the cooperation of his coaches and captains. “[Team captains] Danny Moreno, Dan Mauriello and Nick DiGirolamo have played a major part in all of this,” Martin said. “They keep the guys aware by monitoring them, speaking with them, making it clear of what we want to accomplish.”

Martin’s team captains have taken on the role of enforcing another new team policy, the “48 Hour Rule,” which means no consumption of alcohol, for his of-age players, before any contest.

“We’re putting last year behind us,” Moreno said. “Everyone is following what to do and accepting what needs to be done. It’s a big turnaround from last year and it’s been great -it’s been paying off.”

Martin and his team have made a huge effort to promote a clean and sober program. He points out that even though it was not every player abusing, it was the presence and influence of having it around that was affecting the team so harshly.

“When all the dust settled, it was evident we had a special attitude and camaraderie. It’s really wonderful that the guys have reacted like this.”

-Rich Martin, coach

“Young people feel entitled. They expect a certain amount of things to be given to them,” Martin said.

Drug testing in Division III is not stringent as it is seen in DI and DII athletics. Under current NCAA rules, DI and DII teams are subject to random drug testing at any point in the season, whereas DIII teams are only subject to drug tests if they make championships; however, individual schools may conduct testing throughout the year at their own expense.

“I think it’s foolish not to drug test regular, everyday [DIII] players. It should be mandat-

RAMAPO SPORTS THIS WEEK

Today:

Softball vs.

Polytechnic University at 3 p.m.

Baseball at William Paterson Univerity at 3:30 p.m.

Friday:

Softball vs. Kean University at 3 p.m.

photo by Mike Jagendorf

Ramapo baseballʼs offseason struggles united a team that has its sights set on a championship run.

ed,” Martin said. “We should be interested in promoting integrity and having them become men that are ready for the next step into society.”

Although Martin had to say goodbye to nine players from his team, it was not a final goodbye from his life. He has done his best to reach out to stay in contact and offer as much advice and guidance as he can.

“It’s really difficult considering I recruited them all,” Martin said. “It’s an indictment on me and my staff when we didn’t see what was going on, but I should’ve known. I wanted to correct it as soon as I realized.”

Despite the quiet controversy that may have began the season, the men’s baseball team has taken it all in stride, giving Martin one of his most rewarding season’s yet.

“These are the nicest bunch of guys I’ve ever coached,” Martin said. “They are honorable, funny-they make me laugh every day. This is the reason I still coach. I’ve coached since 1967, and I’ve had more enjoyment from this team-hopefully we’ll be able to finish as champions.”

The Roadrunners will take on William Paterson today at 3:30 p.m. where they will continue to play with the common goal of keeping the honor and integrity of America’s pastime.

“As long as they are giving their best shot-that includes being sober-we can’t lose,” Martin said. “In my mind we’re 22-0 because we’ve worked as hard as we could, and I’m so proud of that.” rpenhake@ramapo.edu

Baseball vs. William Paterson University at 3:30 p.m.

Men’s Tennis vs.

College of Staten Island at 4 p.m.

Men’s and Women’s Track an Field - NY Metropolitan Championships

Saturday:

Baseball at NJ City University at 11:30 a.m Softball at Stockton College at 1 p.m.

Women’s Lacrosse at Bard College at 1 p.m.

Men’s and Women’s Track an Field - Kent Taylor/Joe Hilton UNC Invitational

Sunday:

Baseball vs.

Manhatanville College at 1 p.m.

Tuesday:

Softball vs. NJ City University at 3 p.m.

Baseball vs. St. Joseph’s College at 3:30 p.m.

Women’s Lacrosse vs.

Kean University at 4 p.m.

Charl Schwartzel Wins Masters; Favorites Fade Late on Sunday Page 14 The Ramapo News

Thursday, April 14, 2011

Tiger Woods Comes Close to Old Form, But South African Opponent Outlasts Him

By JEREMY KELLY Staff Writer

The focus of the 2011 Masters Tournament that lasted from Thursday to Sunday at the Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia shifted from a 21-year-old Irishman holding a long-standing lead to Tiger Woods mounting an impressive charge in the final round.

However, it ended with South Africa’s Charl Schwartzel winning the Green Jacket and his first major championship, as he shot -14 for the tournament. Jason Day and Adam Scott, both Australian, tied for second place with a score of -12.

The victory makes Schwartzel only the third South African golfer to win the Masters.

Immelman won it in 2008, and Gary Player won it in 1961.

The 26-year-old Schwartzel had a solid start, shooting -3 after the first round Thursday and was tied for seventh place with six other golfers, one of which was his fellow South African Trevor Immelman, who won the tournament in 2008.

After struggling through most of the second round, Schwartzel shot -4 in the third round and was in a four-way tie for second place with a score of -8. They were all four

strokes behind Northern Ireland’s Roy McIlroy for the lead; he had shot bogey-free in the first round and had at least shared the lead after each of the first three rounds.

This past October, Woods lost the world number one ranking to England’s Lee Westwood in a year where he did not win a tournament for the first time in his career.

He shot 71 for the first round, but then went -6 in the second round to move into a tie for third place with K.J. Choi of South Korea.

However, he struggled through the third round and was now in a five-way tie for ninth place with a score of -5.

In the fourth and final round, the tournament was completely up for grabs as eight different players had at least a share of the lead at some point. McIlroy shot +1 in the first nine holes to maintain a one-stroke lead over Schwartzel, Choi, Woods and Argentina’s Ángel Cabrera. But then disaster struck as McIlroy shot a triple bogey on the 10th hole and then a double bogey on the 12th hole to effectively end any chance of him winning the tournament. He shot 80 for the round and finished tied for 15th with a -4 in what is now regarded as the worst round in history by any professional golfer leading after the third-round.

Woods surged on the first nine as he made four birdies and an eagle to pull into a fourway tie for the lead by the 10th hole.

However, he bogeyed on the 12th hole and missed a five-foot putt for an eagle on the 15th hole. Woods failed to get any closer

photo courtesy of Flickr Creative Commons

Charl Schwartzel survived the longest on one of the most hectic final rounds in Masters history.

than -10 as three other golfers moved ahead of him.

Scott was -7 coming into the round, but hit six birdies on the day to move up to -12

after the 16th hole. However, he would get no further under par than that. Day hit birdies on the last two holes of the round to also finish at -12.

The day ultimately belonged to Schwartzel as he had an early eagle to reach a score of -11. But after a bogey, he hit all pars for the next 10 holes to remain at -10; at this point, he was tied with Day and trailed Scott by one stroke. But Schwartzel caught fire as he scored birdies on the last four holes; he shot a 66, which was the low round of anyone for the day, and finished with a score of -14, winning the tournament by two strokes. He was presented the Green Jacket by Phil Mickelson, the 2010 champion who finished tied for 27th in the tournament.

The victory makes Schwartzel the third South African golfer to win the Masters.

Immelman won it in 2008, and Gary Player won it in 1961; coincidentally, the win came on the 50th anniversary of Player’s victory, which also made him the first international player to win the Masters.

The next PGA major tournament is the United States Open Championship, which lasts from June 16 to 19. Northern Ireland’s Graeme McDowell won the 2010 tournament. jkelly7@ramapo.edu

Men’s Tennis Dominates City College of NY in 9-0 Victory Roadrunners Rise to 6-1 This Season after Sweeping CCNY on Monday

By KATIE BRUNO Staff Writer

The men’s tennis team swept The City College of NY Beavers this past Monday on their home courts to expand their winning streak to six.

Junior Chad Rochman and freshman Francis Osolnick won all eight of their matches in doubles competition.

Sam Klein, Doug Gromack and Evan Clayton all won their singles matches, giving the Roadrunners six out of their nine wins in as many matches during the day. Gromack has emerged victorious in each of his seven singles matches this season, and he has also remained undefeated in doubles play.

Senior Prasanna Fernando picked up another singles victory for Ramapo, defeating Lear Haninovich 6-0 and 6-1 in two sets.

Sophomore Matt Giuliari also contributed to the Roadrunners big win with a 6-0 sweep in his singles match against Arton Oey and another victory in doubles competition with Clayton.

Giuliari made sure the Roadrunners would not sleep on their opponent, a squad with a losing record entering

“It was the first match where we actually had nice weather, so it was fun to get outside and play.”

-Matt Giuliari, sophomore

Monday’s match.

"CCNY was a weak team,” Giuliari said. “But as a team we went out there like it was any other opponent.”

With several of their scheduled matches postponed during

photo courtesy of Ramapo Athletics

After losing their first match, the menʼs tennis team has not lost again. They won their sixth straight match on Monday against the City College of NY.

the season, Giuliari welcomed the opportunity to play on a sunny day.

“It was the first match where we actually had nice weather, so it was fun to get outside and play.”

The Roadrunners improved their record to 6-1 under the direction of new coach Raza Baig. Ramapo is one win away from matching their win total from last season, when they finished 7-4. The Beavers fell to 3-5 after the loss.

After their last two matches against Misericordia

University and Fairleigh Dickinson College at Florham were postponed, the Roadrunners will resume action on Friday when they face the College of Staten Island at 4 p.m. in their last home match of the season. kbruno2@ramapo.edu

First Round of NBA Playoffs to Tip off This Weekend Page 15 The Ramapo News

Thursday, April 14, 2011

Bulls and Spurs Enter Postseason as Top Seeds; Knicks Face Celtics in First Round

By DAVE JONES Staff Writer

It’s that time of year again. No, not final exam time, at least not yet, but rather playoff time in the National Basketball Association.

The grueling 82-game regular season schedule has concluded while separating the contenders from the pretenders along the way. While traditional NBA powers like the Lakers, Celtics, Spurs, and Bulls are among the leading candidates to claim the Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy, a few upstarts will be looking to make a run to the finals and cement their status among the league’s elite.

It is often said that to be the best, you got to beat the best. If one follows that mantra, then any team making a title run must go through the defending champion Lakers in order to get there. Los Angeles is led by NBA superstar and former MVP Kobe Bryant as well as Spanish sensation Pau Gasol. Among the supporting cast in Hollywood is veteran point guard Derek Fisher, do-everything wing man Lamar Odom, and New Jersey native Andrew Bynum.

The San Antonio Spurs, perhaps the biggest threat to the Lakers title defense, have been the class of the Western Conference. Coach Gregg Poppovich has his squad playing unselfish, team-oriented ball, a rarity in the NBA, and will be looking to claim their fifth title since 1999. The team is led by a trio of

former All-Stars in Tony Parker, Manu Ginobili and Tim Duncan.

Dallas is another contender out west, but has had difficulty getting over the championship hump. Since losing in the NBA Finals to the combination of Shaquille O’Neal and Dwyane Wade a few seasons ago, the Mavs have failed to return to the finals despite posting several 50-plus win seasons. Dirk Nowitzki and Jason Kidd lead this veteran ball club who may be running out of time to contend.

Oklahoma City, in the playoffs for the second straight season, has paced the Northwest Division all season while running and gunning to a 55-win season. Kevin Durant, who has established himself as perhaps the next big NBA superstar, and Russell Westbrook lead this up-and-coming, young squad.

Denver, Portland, New Orleans, and Memphis complete the list of post-season competitors in the Western Conference.

In the Eastern Conference, the Chicago Bulls have dominated opponents all season with a mix of old-fashioned defense, rebounding, and selfless play. The off-season acquisition of Carlos Boozer has complimented Derrick Rose and Joakim Noah nicely and has given the Bulls another dimension on both ends of the floor. Rose, who could be named the league’s MVP, has elevated his game to another level this season, and with that, so have the Bulls.

The Miami Heat, led by the Team USA trio of Lebron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris

photo courtesy of Flickr Creative Commons

MVP candidate Derrick Rose looks to lead the Bulls to their first championship since 1998.

Bosh, have managed to share the love on offense while playing tough on the defensive end to claim the crown in the Southeast Division. Despite injuries and some early struggles, perhaps the most hyped team in NBA history has found a way to gel and will be a matchup nightmare for any team in the league in the playoffs. James will have to

shake off some of his post-season demons for this team to reach their goals, but he should benefit from getting support from former Finals MVP Wade and the rest of the supporting cast.

The Celtics, who reached the NBA Finals last season only to lose to their arch-rival Lakers, are a veteran ball club who are trying to claim another title before the window slams shut on their “big three” of Ray Allen, Kevin Garnett and Paul Peirce. Although criticized for dealing big-man Kendrick Perkins in a mid-season trade to Oklahoma City, Boston has the experience and depth to execute a deep run in the post season and will be a team nobody will want to face.

Orlando, one of the dark horse teams to make a championship run, have had a whirlwind type of season. Although they struggled at times, especially in the immediate aftermath of their mid-season blockbuster trade to acquire Hedo Turkoglu and Gilbert Arenas, they have been one of the hottest teams in the league over the last month of the season. Dwight Howard brings his 23 points a game average into the playoffs to go along with his 14 rebounds and two blocks a game to lead the Magic, who may be peaking at the right time.

Atlanta, New York, Philadelphia, and Indiana round out the rest of the Eastern Conference playoff bracket.

Manny Retires after Second Suspension for Drug Use

By TOM BABCOCK Staff Writer

At first glance, it’s a first ballot Hall of Fame resume: 12-time All-Star, 555 homeruns, a lifetime .312 batting average, 2,574 hits, 1,831 RBI, two-time World Series champion and MVP of the 2004 World Series when the Red Sox ended their 86year championship drought and put an end to “The Curse.”

Anyone who’s followed baseball over the past two decades has surely heard this phrase: Manny being Manny. From the time he was drafted by the Indians in 1991 until his sudden retirement from baseball last week, Manny Ramirez’s antics always seemed to taint his baseball greatness.

To many, he is considered the greatest right-handed hitter in baseball history.

Judging from purely his baseball credentials, he undoubtedly had a Hall of Fame career.

Ramirez, who had already served a 50game suspension after failing a league-mandated drug test with the Dodgers in 2008, was the only player in Major League Baseball history to get caught a second time this spring with the Tampa Bay Rays.

With an embarrassing 100-game suspension now staring him in the face after his second failed drug test in the last three years, Ramirez shocked the baseball world and announced his retirement from the game last week. If he ever decides to return to base-

ball, he will still need to serve the 100-game suspension.

Not only has Ramirez been caught twice, he was also rumored to be on a 104-player list involving steroids and other performing enhancing drugs that the MLB refused to reveal publicly in 2003.

Now that Ramirez appears to have walked

photo courtesy of Flickr Creative Commons

Manny Ramirez announced his retirement after receiving a 100game suspension.

away from the game for good, how are we supposed to look at his career?

With three steroid scandals in the last eight years, does anyone believe Ramirez didn’t take performing enhancing drugs prior to 2003? He hit 347 homeruns from 1991 to 2003, and that’s before his first steroid accusation. With little to no drug testing during that time period, who’s to say Ramirez wasn’t juicing since he entered the league in ’91?

How many of his 555 career homeruns would have been long fly outs without the help of steroids? How many of his 2,574 hits would have been caught? Would the Red Sox have ended their 86-year World Series drought without a ‘roided up Ramirez (as well as teammate David Ortiz, also rumored to be on that 104-player list in 2003)?

There will likely never be answers to any of those answers unfortunately, but what we do know is that Ramirez cheated multiple times and simultaneously affected baseball history and permanently tainted what should have been a shoe-in Hall of Fame career.

He can’t hide behind his playful antics, dreadlocks, or his easy-going and carefree demeanor any longer. He will forever be remembered as the sweet-swinging steroid user, with every hit, every homerun now considered nothing but a drug-aided mirage.

He will be considered selfish, self-centered, and a fluke to baseball fans and Hall of Fame voters. Many believe in five years when Ramirez becomes eligible for

djones@ramapo.edu

Cooperstown, he won’t even receive the necessary five percent needed to stay on the ballot.

His legendary and extremely entertaining

We may never see another right-handed hitter with the talent of Ramirez, but we possibly just witnessed the last of Manny being Manny.

career will now be linked with other known steroid suspects such as Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire, Rafael Palmiero and Roger Clemens, all of whom will also struggle to reach the Hall.

We may never see another right-handed hitter with the talent of Ramirez, but we possibly just witnessed the last of Manny being Manny.

While a handful of teams throughout his career dealt with his antics and continued slotting him in the lineup because he was such a feared hitter, Hall of Fame voters will not be as generous.

It’s a fitting end to a tumultuous career that will most likely end up with Manny Ramirez, the once iconic figure turned laughingstock of baseball, on the outside looking in regarding his ticket to Cooperstown. tbabock@ramapo.edu

SPORTS 10 . 7 . 10

GREEK WEEK! 4 . 1410. 11 . 7 . 10

photo by Sean Ritchie

Want to see more Greek Week pictures? Check out page 2!

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