Ramapo College Newspaper

A&E A&E

COFFEE HOUSE

9.30.2010

THE

Page 10

RAMAPO NEWS

POETRY NIGHT

A Publication by the Students for the Ramapo College Community

Anisfield School Named New Home of Eastern Economics Association

A&E A&E Page 8

XLI No. 3

Mercer Toughens Overnight Policy, Bans Four Loko

By S TEPHANIE NODA Staff Writer

President Mercer gave his State of the College Address Wednesday to address issues concerning the drinking and overnight guest policies.

He labeled his address “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly” of Ramapo College, which students and faculty gathered in the Sharp Theater to hear.

"The Good" is Ramapo has excelled in its national rank; "The Bad" is the funding deficits the college faces, and "The Ugly" is students have been abusing the alcoholic beverage Four Loko, prompting a discussion about policy revisions.

Higher National Rank

Nobel Prize Winner Delivers Economic Analysis

photo by Stefanie Mauro

Prior to his lecture, Paul Krugman joined Ramapo faculty for the new EEA homeʼs ribbon cutting ceremony.

By MEGAN ANDERLE Editor-in-Chief

Nobel Prize-winning economics expert Paul Krugman provided members of the Ramapo community with insight into how the economic downturn occurred, the current state and the future. The sold out event drew students, faculty, Board members and friends of Ramapo.

At the heart of Krugman’s lecture was how frugal spending hurt the economy, the liquidity trap that keeps the United States’ economy in its position and how Americans can help – with more spending – to solve the issue.

“We’re in a world that is characterized by paradox thrift,” Krugman said. “If everyone tries to save more, that means they spend less, and if they spend less, actually the unemployment’s going to rise. The economy’s going to shrink, and with a weaker economy, we’re building less incentive for businesses to invest. If everyone tries to save more, the end result is we’ll do less investment for the future.”

Krugman delved into the issue by analogizing citizens’ spending habits to a “babysitting coop” in which parents received “babysitting coupons” every time they watched another family’s children. Parents who babysat could then redeem these coupons for their own babysitter.

“What turned out was that the number of coupons that they were issuing to people was less than the reserve that people, on average, wanted to hold,” Krugman said. “People wanted to keep some in their dresser drawer, so it was actually hard to earn coupons by babysitting, which made people even more reluctant to go out because they didn’t want to use their coupons.”

This analogy helped senior Daniel Reimel to understand the economy’s complex problems.

“He used a lot of good analogies to translate the material for the average person,” Reimel said. “The babysitting analogy completely

WEEKEND WEATHER FRI

see ECONOMY on page 6

High 70 Low 48

photo by Stefanie Mauro

Paul Krugman urged spending to stimulate the economy on Wednesday.

SAT

High 65 Low 44

SUN

Among the “good” that President Mercer discussed in his address were the people of Ramapo College as a whole. With top notch faculty, as well as the second most academically highly qualified incoming freshmen class in Ramapo’s 41 years of history.

“Only the 2005 freshmen class was more highly qualified on average,” President Mercer said. “We have increased the size of the freshmen complement by almost 20% without compromising quality.”

Mercer talked about Ramapo College’s rank as an institute of higher education increasing steadily this year as well. The U.S. News & World Report ranks Ramapo fourth out of 49 schools within the Best Regional Universities Northern category.

In regards to the budget, Mercer announced that Ramapo has received a NFF grant of over $1.5 million in order to renovate the microbiology research suite in the third floor of the G-building. The G-Building will also be receiving additional renovations in the near future, as well as consulting the see MERCER on page 6

High 62 Low 42

THE RAMAPO NEWS

Page 2 The Ramapo News

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

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

Keri Ann Flaccomio Editor-in-Chief

Amy Fezza

Managing Editor

Diana Stanczak News Editor

Andrew Gould A & E Editor

Stefanie Mauro Sports Editor

Michelle Angelino Photo Editor Web Editor

Adam Panella Dan Sforza

Business Manager

INSIDE

Technical Advisor

Around the Arch Viewpoints Page 3

A&E Page 7

Sports Page 8

Page 13

CORRECTIONS

Two photos of David Walton, on the cover and page 6, were incorrectly attributed. They were taken by Mike Jagendorf.

The photo on the back cover was taken by Stefanie Mauro.

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.

“New” Moodle Causes Student Concerns

Thursday, September 30, 2010

New Features and Designs Show Drastic Changes

By RACHEL WINTERMUTE Staff Writer

Moodle.Ramapo.edu, Ramapo College’s interactive course website, has recently undergone significant site changes.

Avid Moodle users who have recently logged onto the site in the past few months have noticed a substantial difference in the layout, design and features throughout the pages.

Due to overwhelming criticism, Dr. Valerie Scott, Ramapo professor and director of the Instructional Design Center and the rest of the IDC, is working on implementing a new version of Moodle that more closely reflects the original. These changes will hopefully be in effect within the next month.

“When [our department] first got Moodle, we experimented over a summer and loved it,” Scott said. “Then we added the staff and

“The honeymoon was soon over.”

-Valerie Scott, director of the Instuctional Design Center

they were convinced.”

The Moodle program was new to the Ramapo community in the summer of 2009. It eventually replaced WebCT, another interactive site that was more expensive and less popular. Moodle can be used as an online resource by professors to update course files, forums, message boards, grades and more.

“It had to happen. The irony is that Blackboard, the company that bought WebCT, also changed its appearance and now looks

“I cannot fully enjoy the benefits of the new look of Moodle because there still appear to be glitches in the system that need to be addressed.”

-Natalie Howell, senior

more like Moodle,” Scott said.

“My professors really never used Moodle before this year, and I was always somewhat intimidated by it because people would say how confusing it can get,” junior Becky Penhaker said. “But this year, with the new changes, it seems easier to navigate.

I haven’t had a problem yet, knock on wood.”

In its first year, some professors only used the surface resources, such as simple links and files. Others took advantage of Moodle’s depth and relied heavily on the site for weekly submissions and quizzes.

“Moodle is still better than Luminis,” senior Keryn Lemp said. “Breaking class assignments down week by week is a huge help when dealing with the task of separating your classes.”

In general, the new website was a huge hit among professors and students alike.

Although, as Dr. Scott reports, “the honeymoon was soon over.” In short, problems in technicalities arose and changes needed to be

made.

“I cannot fully enjoy the benefits of the new look of Moodle because there still appear to be glitches in the system that need to be addressed,” senior Natalie Howell said.

Over this past summer, the college’s IDC moved forward in the update process. The Moodle upgrades only cost about $1,000 and came with a wide variety of fresh features.

However, this upgrade is also the root of the unfavorable new look. Fortunately, Moodle will be changing again to a more streamlined design that is very similar to its initial layout within the next month. The upcoming design will be cleaner and easier to navigate, but still full of the complete set of features.

In the future, Moodle is still due for yet another upgrade. Dr. Scott looks to the spring semester to hopefully update the current Moodle 1.9 system to the latest Moodle 2.0.

That change will have less visual impact and will focus more on the addition of even more useful features.

This is an ongoing process, as the IDC attempts to keep Ramapo College at the cusp of the latest technological advances.

For any questions regarding the information provided, the IDC is located on the bottom floor of the Anisfield School of Business. You can also contact Ramapo’s Information Technology Services (ITS) for assistance.

Four Loko: Worth the Controversy?

By ELIS A S AXTON-LOPEZ Staff Writer

Nicknamed “Liquid Cocaine,” Four Loko has become a call for concern amongst officials on campus. Drastic measures such as banning the beverage all together have been taken into account.

Four Loko is made up of four main ingredients: caffeine, taurine, guarana and wormwood — an active ingredient in Absinthe. The plethora of flavors, which tends to mask the actual taste of alcohol, makes it a more desirable drink with its 12-percent alcohol volume and a drink that worries authorities.

Vice President of Students Pat Chang explained how wormwood oil, an ingredient used in Absinthe, has been essential for surgeries in the 1800s.

“If they didn’t have any anesthesia, they would just pour wormwood onto you to numb you enough to do surgery,” Chang said. “So you’re consuming a numbing agent and a hallucinogen, and an upper with caffeine, and then alcohol as a downer. That’s almost like asking for it.”

With just five years after its debut, it has become the most abused alcoholic drink among college students. Certain students on campus find the drink to be enjoyable due to the low cost and fast fix that it provides.

“It’s so cheap,” student Brian Saffer said. “It gets you really drunk and it’s perfect for kids our age.”

Consumption of the beverage on campus has attracted attention from major news broadcasting channels such as Fox News and News 12.

Through the recent ban on Four Loko at Ramapo, students are still puzzled as to why newly added policies have become so rash.

“We’re not going to turn a blind eye to it,” Chang said. “This is very serious because people are showing that they can’t handle this beverage.”

A Wake Forest study done last year showed that when alcohol is mixed with caffeine, the risk of alcohol-related injuries are doubled. A sufficient amount of Ramapo students have been sent to the hospital for alcohol-related injuries these past few weeks, and Four Loko is said to be a major contributor.

rwinterm@ramapo.edu

“The biggest concern is that we’ve had almost four deaths on campus as of the start of this semester,” Chang said. “We’ve had 19 hospitalizations due to intoxications, which is a little higher than average.”

Some students believe the policies to be irrelevant and do not find the beverage to be any different from other alcoholic drinks.

“I don’t think students will follow this at all,” freshman Dylan Caruso said. “As underclassmen, we’re not even supposed to drink alcohol period. Why would we follow the ban when we’re not supposed to have any alcohol substances to begin with?”

photo courtesy of Flickr Creative Commons

Students and administration canʼt seem to see eye-to-eye on the consumpution of Four Loko.

Other students are actually in favor of the ban, fearing consequences and health effects if they drink Four Loko.

“I just think it’s unnecessary and drinking something with that many ingredients and content can’t be good,” junior Maria Salluisto said. “I wouldn’t want to risk getting sick after some of the stories I’ve heard, and with the ban, I just wouldn’t want to be anywhere near it.” esaxtonl@ramapo.edu

Thursday, September 30, 2010

THURSDAY’S CHILD

Truman Capote Author of the novel, Breakfast at Tiffanyʼs was born today

TODAY IN HISTORY The Flintstones

premiered as the 1st primetime annimated show in 1960

Bursar’s Office Promotes Welcoming Atmosphere Employees Looks for Positive and Negative Feedback from Students

By REBECCA PENHAKER Staff Writer

The Bursar’s Office is newly renovated, freshly decorated and eagerly awaiting students feedback regarding their ‘user-friendly’ attitude.

The Bursar’s Office is making a conscious effort to reach out to students and parents by having a welcoming atmosphere and more personal approach when dealing with student finances.

“Our goal was to make a change to make students feel more comfortable when they come see us,” Arthur Chill, Bursar’s Office employee said. “We believe we’ve accomplished that.”

Walking into the Bursar’s Office, there is a new sense of openness, a more casual and relaxed environment. The new office prides itself for its one-on-one communication where students are able to interact face-to-face with the office’s cashiers, specialists, and managers—no more plexiglass barrier getting in the way.

“Our goal was to make a change to make students feel more comfortable when they come see us.”

-Arthur Chill, Bursar’s Office employee

“People used to bunch up as cattle behind that window.

Now when students come in, they say how it’s more personable and they feel like we are paying more attention to them,” Cashier Joann Conti said.

The main goal behind the renovation was to improve customer service. Chill explained how the original layout was less efficient and less friendly.

The plexiglass’ narrow opening made it difficult for students, parents and faculty to communicate—regularly strug-

photo by Rebecca Penhaker User-friendly attitdue creates an open environment.

gling to be heard.

“We’re taking people’s money,” Chill said. “We wanted to improve on the fact that someone is here to make payments.

We wanted them to have more pleasant surroundings.”

Chill acknowledged that the Bursar’s Office is often highlighted as being negative due to their fiscal responsibilities with policies and procedures, deadlines and students getting de-registered.

Chill emphasizes that those are obligations and responsibilities.

“We are always perceived as the bad guys. We’re doing what we are responsible for.”

However, Chill wants students to be aware that the Bursar’s Office is always there to help.

“We are always here to convey the message that we are here to help. We’re always open and receptive to the problems a parent or student may have and we make every attempt to accommodate.”

According to Chill, the Bursar’s Office philosophy is that they always want to be helpful. Continuously trying to find new ways to improve customer service, they decided to set

up a suggestion box outside their office where they welcome comments and feedback students.

“We want the students’ positive and negative feedback,” Chill said. “You never want to hear negative things, but we need feedback from students to improve. If there are any problems we want to address them.”

In an effort for students to view the Bursar’s Office in a more encouraging light and “drum up business,” a raffle has been created to draw students into signing up for the electronic refund.

Every student is eligible for the raffles that are sign ups for the electronic refund, which began Aug. 31 and will continue until Oct. 14.

We’re always open and receptive to the problems.”

-Arthur Chill, Bursar’s Office employee

Two random winners will be chosen Oct. 15, and each winner will receive $100 gift certificate where the student can decide to collect Ramapo Bucks or Bookstore Dollars, or a combination of each.

Chill wants to use the raffle as an incentive for students to sign up for the electronic refund.

“It’s beneficial for students,” Chill said. “It’s faster and it eliminates the risk of it getting stolen.

We ran into a problem last semester where over 100 refund checks were left in the mailboxes because no one checked.”

Chill hopes that this raffle enticement and new office design will help students see the Bursar’s Office in an improved perspective.

“It used to be ‘Oh gosh, I have to go to the Bursar’s Office.’

But now it’s at least a friendlier place to be.” rpenhake@ramapo.edu

New RA Policies Bring Mixed Emotions Among Students

By VALERIE TORRIZO Staff Writer

A new contract has forced both Resident Assistants and Community Assistants to take on more responsibilities and duties.

However, many are questioning their exact roles and how much control they have over residence halls.

“The job is drastically different,” said Linda Diaz, director of Residence Life.

“The contract is extensive,” she added.

Under the general statement of the Resident/ Community Assistant Job Description and Contract, RAs and CAs are “Full-time undergraduate students whose function is to act as a student advisor to the residents in the college residence halls.”

Policies and practices they are responsible for in coherence with Ramapo College are in the contract.

This year, rather than receiving a paycheck, RAs live on campus free of charge. New perks also include single rooms and a Ramapo Dollar Waiver.

“We’ve definitely brought the job more mainstream,” said Diaz.

Diaz, who was an RA in the past, believes

that the responsibilities have changed.

Previously, RAs only were on duty in the office until 10 p.m. However, now they are in the office until midnight. RAs and CAs are “responsible for completing office hours Monday through Friday,” according to the contract.

Weekend duty is also a new responsibility.

Diaz also said that prior to this year, “There was no such thing as weekend duty ever at Ramapo.”

“We understand that they’re working for the school, but they’re not police officers,” -Jason Krisza, sga president

Any RA or CA will be on the “frontline dealing with noise complaints, lockouts, and other similar incidents.” Contacting Public Safety is their secondary concern. Any “incident he/she may witness that violates the student code of conduct such as alcohol or theft.”

If they receive a noise complaint about a room, they are required to knock on that door. RAs and CAs are told that “When it

doubt, write it out.” A no-warning policy is now being enforced.

“When you give a warning, it gives judgment,” says Diaz in response to the nowarning policy. “That’s how we can change the environment.”

Many students have conflicting views on the merit in regards to the “no-warning” policy. Some say it encourages student-to-student communication and has students talking to each other to work out problems among themselves.

Diaz strongly encourages students to knock on each other’s doors, rather than to pick up the phone and call Public Safety. This is mostly for the reason that it “builds student community,” one of the major expectations for RAs and CAs. David Romero, a freshman, agrees with Diaz and believes that the no-warning policy is helpful.

“It not only facilitates student to student communication, but it also helps students develop communication skills to survive in society,” said Romero. “To me, it is a lot like in the real world when people in different apartments or houses get into conflicts with each other. You are going to probably try to

settle issues yourselves before you go to complain to the landlord or police.”

“The job is drastically different.”

-Linda Diaz, director of Res Life

Chelsea Clark, a first-year student, says, “I honestly think it should just be a warning before anything. Some people just enjoy loud music. It doesn’t mean that there’s a party or something.”

Another freshman, Erika Mandel, also agrees. “Unless there is a significance amount of noise, there should definitely be a warning,” she says.

Jason Krisza, senior and Student Government Association President, calls the new policy “horrific”. He disagrees with the RAs patrolling the halls.

“We understand that they’re working for the school, but they’re not police officers,” he says.

Through Krisza’s eyes, RAs are further alienating themselves from the students by monitoring the noise levels in the halls. vtorrizo@ramapo.edu

Sigma Nu Alma-Mater Discusses Hazing Aftermath Page 4 The Ramapo News

Thursday September 30, 2010

Personal Experience Helps to Gain Insight Into Hazing Ramifications

By SAMANTHA ULLRICH Staff Writer

Erle Morring, an Auburn University graduate and Sigma Nu member, came to Ramapo College on Friday to discuss the ramifications of hazing on college campuses through personal experiences.

“Ladies and gentlemen, in less than three months, my own fraternity had two of its own pledge members dead; Blair and Wesley,” Morring told his audience.

This was Morring’s second time presenting “Hazed and Confused” at Ramapo. Through real-life anecdotes, Morring spoke to his audience about the devastations he went through as a Sigma Nu leader. He began by introducing his fraternity chapter, house and the pride he took in this male organization.

“It’s about an environment and a culture and the decisions that you, as undergraduates choose to make in your life,” Morring said.

The well-attended audience was made up largely of fraternity and sorority members wearing their letters, along with Ramapo students interested in what Morring had to say.

“You need to think about leadership; think about communication.”

-Erle Morring, speaker

“Well I think hazing is a real problem and I think it’s in all institutions, not just Greek life.” Morring said. “I think people can learn from this message and learn from this story.”

Morring introduced the term “group think,” which he explained to be “the process by which a group makes bad or irrational decisions.”

“I think the ‘group think’ point was definitely valid, not just for fraternities, but for any large group,” Robert Scriffiano, president of Alpha Chi Rho said.“People start thinking with gang mentalities and get carried away and start fraying from the actual point of what they’re supposed to be doing," He said that this with the example of one of his frat broth-

ers, Larry. Every Wednesday night, Larry would go over the agenda of hazing for the week.

“The resulting group think that we had was haze, haze, haze, haze, haze,” Morring said.

Morring then introduced the audience to his “little” frater nity brother, Blair. Having made a huge impact in Morring’s life, Blair was portrayed as compassionate, easy to get along with and an all together, good guy.

“We weren’t really supposed to bond with our little brother until he was initiated into the fraternity, but Blair and I did things a little different,” Morring said.

Blair’s Story

As a pledge, it was Blair’s turn to check IDs at the door.

Two boys approached the door that weren’t on the guest list, so Blair turned them away. A couple nights later, the boys found Blair and beat him up. When Blair’s fraternity brothers found out this happened, they decided to “settle the score.”

“It’s boys being boys,” Morring said.

A few weeks later, Blair went to a bar with a three of his pledge brothers, all of who were using fake IDs. Blair spotted two blood brothers of the boys he had gotten into a fight with a few weeks back.

“Little did the Mike know, someone or something hit Blair in the back of his head. Blair was laying unconscious in the parking lot and when Mike threw his car into reverse, he backed right into Blair. One hour later my fraternity little brother was announced dead,” Morring recalled.

Blair’s father pulled the ring off his finger and threw it at him. “Son, read me what’s on the top of that ring,” Blair’s father said. Morring replied, “Kappa Alpha.”

He said “You’re damn right son, that represents my fraternity, my values, my beliefs, my morals and your frat killed my son. Your frat killed my son.”

In order to create an organizational change, the leaders that are causing the problems have to be addressed, Morring said.

“You need to think about leadership; think about communication; think about a group, and use my chapter as an

“It’s about an environment and a culture and the decisions that you, as undergraduates choose to make in your life.”

-Erle Morring, speaker

example,” Morring said.

Morring encouraged students to focus on one small issue at a time – change doesn’t happen overnight.

“If you have a hazing culture, I guarantee you aren’t going to get rid of that this year. It’s an intuitional change that needs to take place,” he tells the audience.

Fraternity brothers and sorority sisters, along with other members of campus organization benefited from hearing Morring’s story.

“It was very emotional. you take from it that you have to make sure you’re teaching your members the right things and that the focus shouldn’t be on hazing it’s about the leaders and building better men,” Bill Flanagan, a brother of Alpha Chi Rho, said. sullrich@ramapo.edu

photo by Samantha Ullrich

Erle Morring gives presentation on real-life anecdotes.

Yoga: Find Your Inner Peace and Increase Spiritual Growth

By SAMANTHA ULLRICH Staff Writer

We’ve all heard of yoga and most of our favorite celebrities are doing it, but what’s all the hype about? This art form, practiced by millions of people around the world, is very beneficial for the mind and body, but many of us are unsure of exactly what those benefits actually are.

The poses that seem, well, crazy, can be a major turn-off for many people, especially those who consider themselves inflexible; but this mind-body exercise must be practiced.

So have no fear if you’re not Gumby, those crazy poses, which are actually called asanas, are not necessary for beginners.

Lucky for Ramapo students, yoga is offered every week right here on campus! Nancy Smith instructs yoga every Tuesday (excluding Election Day) from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. in the York room, which is located in the Birch mansion.

Smith’s love for yoga began when she was president of Ramapo’s yoga club in 1999. She decided to become a teacher, and in January 2001 Smith taught her first public yoga class here at Ramapo.

Personally, I was lucky enough to attend the first yoga practice of the new semester this past Tuesday.

Enya music played softly in the background and Smith’s soothing voice guided her yogis through a peaceful hour of stretches and poses.

“As you practice, you build strength in your body, and you should be able to go deeper, and deeper, and deeper into your poses. But in the beginning, you need to be loving and compassionate to yourself, and allow yourself the time to enjoy the journey of eventually going deeper in those

poses,” Smith said.

Today, many people, both men and women, practice yoga as a routine for physical health and improvement. However, yoga is an “ancient path to spiritual growth, and originates out of India where Induism is practiced,” according to AllAboutSpirituality.org. Yoga has been practiced for over 5,000 years, and is still a very popular form of exercise today.

Flexibility Although many people may not think this is a health benefit per say, the stretching of the muscles done during different asanas keeps the body healthy and agile. The practice of safely stretching your muscles actually releases lactic acids in the muscles, which causes stiffness, tension, pain and fatigue.

Muscular Strength Many yoga poses are to be held for a certain number of breaths, which forces the yogi to concentrate on contracting his or her muscles for a period of time. For example, the plank, half moon, downward dog and camel best improve upper body strength because they require one to support his or her own upper body, according to ACE FitnessMatters.

When practiced correctly, however, all poses build core strength, which also leads to better posture.

Less Stress Most forms of yoga focus heavily on breathing techniques.

Practicing breathing techniques can prove beneficial during aerobic activities such as running or biking because it expands lung capacity. However, most yoga forms use breathing as more of a meditation feature. Meditation can be

done in a yoga studio, or simply at your desk, but both have one thing in mind: to decrease stress. During meditation, there is a decrease in catecholamine, the hormones produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress, according to WebMD.com. Reducing this hormone in return creates a calm feeling.

Weight Loss It has also been said and studied that yoga boosts the metabolism and aids in weight loss. Dr. Ray Sahelian, respected physician and medical writer, found that researchers at Hampton University in Virginia reported that a program combining yoga and breathing exercises helped teens shed unwanted pounds (http://www.raysahelian.com/yoga.html).

Whether you practice yoga for the spiritual gratification, or to stay healthy, the benefits on the body are still the same.

“The benefits of yoga are that it connects your mind and body together through your breath.

Yoga also decongests your entire body. It cleanses your blood, it decongests your organs, it oxygenates throughout your whole system and we move and stretch every joint, every ligament, and every muscle of the body in an hour of a yoga class,” Smith said. sullrich@ramapo.edu

RASA Attempts to Recruit New Members Page 5 The Ramapo News

Thursday, September 30, 2010

By S TEPHANIE NODA Staff Writer

In order for students to engage in the new school year, the Ramapo Admissions Student Ambassadors held a “RASA Kickoff Social” last Tuesday in the Laurel Courts. The social was a chance for students to consider joining the Student Ambassador program in an informal way.

The RASA program is one of the driving forces behind informing potential students about crucial information they need to know in order to decide if Ramapo College is the school for them.

“They do a good job of showing incoming students what Ramapo’s about and what we have to offer,” senior Adam Panella said. “They all work really hard and they’re a great bunch of people.”

“We used this social as a way to welcome our new members.”

-Jason Krisza, student ambassador

As ambassadors, it is their job to take potential students on tours of the college by showing newcomers important locations on campus, which include tours through the muliple dormitories, the Student Center, and the Bradley Center.

“The Student Ambassador Program is run through Admissions and is strictly a volunteer group,” Anthony Dovi, coordinator of the Student Ambassador program said.

“The students that come out for the organization volunteer themselves and their pride to Ramapo at events.”

The RASA Kickoff Social was meant to show potential candidates the steps towards becoming an ambassador. Many students came interested in learning about the different activities that RASA provides and how they could become a part of this organization themselves.

“A record amount of 35 new students have entered the train-

RASA put together a kick off social to encourage new students to join their program.

ing program to become an official Student Ambassador,” Dovi said. “The event was very well attended. Students of all years got to interact with each other and share their Ramapo experience with each other. It’s very encouraging to see Ramapo pride throughout all the students that are a part of the Ambassador program at Ramapo College.”

“I decided to go to the meeting just to find out more,” freshman Elisa Saxton-Lopez said. “I was talking to the tour guides and they said it was a really fun thing to do.”

Talking about the responsibilities of a Student Ambassador was not all that RASA did at its kickoff celebration. After the initial meeting, catering from Jersey Boy’s, a local pizzeria in Mahwah, was served to the potential ambassadors. A variety of games were also offered, which included rounds of Frisbee, bachi ball, wiffle ball and volleyball.

“We used this social as a way to welcome our new members,” Student Ambassador Jason Krisza said. “We’ve been promoting the program and a lot of people wanted to get involved. It was really a bonding experience and it was great for the comradery of the group.”

photo by Amy Fezza

This large turnout of prospective new ambassadors was

“They do a good job of showing incoming students what Ramapo’s about.”

-Adam Panella, senior

much larger than the Student Ambassador program had anticipated. All 35 new candidates were willing to show prospective students what Ramapo is all about. The Student Ambassador program will continue grow in their contributions towards campus.

“Two or three years ago, we had about only 20 active members, sometimes less for some of our events,” Krisza said.

“In the past year, we grew in leaps and bounds. It was definitely an overwhelming number of people at the social and we’re really proud of that.”

Fraternities Let Loose During Male Revue

snoda@ramapo.edu

Theta Phi Alpha Hosts Annual Fundraiser for Conference

By ELYS E TORIBIO Staff Writer

The Theta Phi Alpha sorority hosted its annual Male Revue fundraiser event last Thursday in Friends Hall to a large audience of fellow Greeks and other Ramapo students.

“It’s a fundraiser for us to get money for conferences and our national convention that we try and go to every year,” Xandra Wall, senior and president of Theta Phi Alpha said. “It’s always very good and a lot of people always come out to support us.”

The girls of Theta Phi Alpha used on-campus advertising, social networking and word of mouth to spread information about the event. Their hard work seemed to pay off, evident by the large turnout.

The crowd in attendance this year had the opportunity to see members of various fraternities on campus let loose on stage with choreographed dance numbers, lip syncs and humorous catwalks.

“They have no other option,” Wall said. “If they want us to come to their stuff, they have to do this.”

Tommy Bellucci, senior member of the Alpha Epsilon Pi fraternity and participant in this year’s event, explains that he and members of other fraternities on campus are excited and not embarrassed to be contestants in the talent show.

“Male Revue’s always the best time,” Bellucci said.

“I just love doing this, we’ve been stoked for the past few days.”

Bellucci and his brothers competed in last year’s event, but did not take home the grand prize.

“We didn’t take our pants off,” he said when referring to his loss the previous year. “This year, it’s

going to be a different story.”

Contestants in the event are not given restrictions.

However, some members of Greek life find performances to be demoralizing.

“I think it was a disgusting display of brotherhood,” one junior member of a Greek sorority who asked to not be named said. “All those guys doing whatever they can to get first place, it’s demoralizing. But it works, and it was interesting. [Theta] made a lot of money. A lot.”

Other organizations on campus beg to differ. The Women’s Center stands behind Theta’s performance system regardless.

“We recognize that it’s a college campus and even if it doesn’t send the most positive messages, it’s something that they’re well within their rights to do,” Kat McGee, coordinator of the Women’s Center said. “We’ll defend anybody’s right to free speech.”

Despite criticism from peers regarding the event, Theta Phi Alpha seems well on its way to meeting its fundraising goal. The large crowd in attendance was a promising sign of things to come.

The organization is planning other charitable events for the semester, including a home run derby on Oct. 16 that will raise money for Breast Cancer research.

“It’s something that’s really affected our chapter,” Wall said. “We’re really excited about it and we’re hoping for a huge turnout.” etoribio@ramapo.edu

photo by Elyse Toribio

Male contestants particpated in Male Revue to raise money.

Octoberfest Aims to Unite Campus Page 6 The Ramapo News

By VALERIE CANUBAS Staff Writer

One of Student Government Association’s main goals this year is to increase school spirit on campus. Many other schools have football games or a homecoming weekend for students to come out in their school colors and form bonds with one another. Three years ago, Octoberfest weekend was a tradition started by SGA to increase that school spirit.

With this being its fourth year, I believe Octoberfest 2010 is one of the most awaited weekends on campus. As a sophomore, I’ve only had the chance to experience one Octoberfest weekend, but just seeing the student turnout, as well as the free food and prize giveaways, at the event makes me and my friends look forward to the weekend even more.

Last year’s Octoberfest was rained out, but the events still went on, even though most of the festivities had to be relocated to the Bradley Center gym. Even with the dreary weather, the event maintained a decent Saturday-night turnout.

Even passing people in the hallways, I’ve heard talk about the excitement for this weekend. Just the other day, I was talking to my group of friends about the event and they can’t wait to add another Octoberfest shirt to add to their collections.

This year, I’ve had the privilege of planning out some of the events and I can’t wait to enjoy the weekend and see how the fourth annual Octoberfest turns out.

First-year students and upperclassmen are

anxiously awaiting one of Ramapo’s newest annual traditions. In addition, Ramapo alumni are coming back for this weekend, which I believe is an indicator that our school spirit has increased. It’s good to see that even after students graduate, they still have the school spirit to return to Ramapo for Octoberfest weekend.

I anticipate a great student turnout this year. It’s going to be a weekend filled with free food, games and prizes for students and alumni. So stay on campus this weekend and enjoy one of Ramapo’s biggest traditions.

vcanubas@ramapo.edu

Improve your writing skills and boost your resume.

Write for the Ramapo News!

Mondays and Wednesdays, 7:15 p.m., SC-218

Mercer Cracks Down on College Issues

Thursday, September 30, 2010

continued from page 1

Finance and Capital Improvements Committee recommending to the Board of Trustees to construct new floors and a 25thousand-square-foot addition. This project would have an allocation of about $54 million.

“Once completed about two years from now, the schools of Theoretical and Applied Sciences and Social Sciences and Human Services will have facilities whose standards are comparable to the excellence of their programs,” Mercer said.

Although there were many good things to be said about the improvements Ramapo has been making to campus, Mercer expressed that the budget is a topic of concern.

Financial Woes

The “bad” included financial situations the state faces, which is a several billiondollar deficit. Mercer plans to deal with this by raising revenues where he can and cutting expenses. There is also the issue of limited public funding that needs to be addressed.

“I know we’ve had a lot of going on as far as education funding issues from the state, so I’d like to know what we’re planning to do with that,” sophomore Ysabel De La Riva said.

Beverage Control

The “ugly” side, on the other hand, dealt with issues in the student community itself.

“I have a prop for this one,” Mercer said, as he reached into a plastic bag to pull out a can of Four Loko, a popular alcoholic energy drink.

One student, Mercer reported, had been

hospitalized with a blood alcohol level of .4, which is five times over the legal limit. The student had reached this dangerous state by drinking three Four Lokos in one hour, which equates to 12 shots of tequila per can.

After citing the unsafe properties contained in Four Loko, Mercer announced the measures the college will now take in regards to alcohol violations. Four Loko and all other alcoholic energy drinks are now banned campuswide at Ramapo starting Sept. 30.

Possessing Four Loko on campus will be considered an alcoholic offense.

Efforts are also being taken to increase security on campus. The Bradley gate and south gate will close at 11 p.m., and the only entrance available will be through the main gate. Starting on Nov. 1, there will be four security attendants in residences from 11 p.m. until 6 a.m.

Many students, like freshman Allison Gutworth, were concerned about safety on campus.

“I heard there was an incident on campus where this person brought a visitor who had a criminal history,” freshman Allison Gutworth said. “That’s really unsafe and I don’t really feel safe being here if anyone can just come on campus and get into the residence hall.”

“These are all steps that we are taking to preserve the health and safety of our students,” Mercer said. “They are not meant to be punitive. They are obviously serious. The Mahwah police have expressed great concern to me about the amount of time they spend responding to calls at Ramapo College. We don’t want to lose their confidence and support.”

Krugman Envisions Economic Improvements continued from page 1

made sense to me — it really broke down the issue. It wasn't over my head at all. He had a good sense of humor, not cocky at all. He did put a couple people down, but that’s okay."

“He was certainly controversial, by many standards, but he had incredible logic that was hard to argue with and he was able to explain it in plain English.”

-Lewis Chakrin, dean of Anisfield School of Business

President Peter Mercer was also able to understand the economy’s current state from Krugman’s lecture.

“Even I don’t know that much about the economy and I understood it,” Mercer said.

Krugman, a regular columnist for the “New York Times,” is a professor of economics at Princeton University. He recieved the American Economics Association’s John Bates Clark medal in 1991.

Because Americans choose not to spend, there is less of a need for products. Therefore, the problem is not supply; it’s demand, which is costing workers their jobs. Regardless of this fact, there has been too much emphasis on why the economy was dipping, and not enough action taken to

change the situation, Krugman said.

“Everyone was wondering, ‘How could it be that we’re trapped in a bad situation,’ rather than, ‘What would it take to get out of it,’” he said. “These are extraordinary times.

This is the worst crisis since the 1930s.”

Krugman said the reason why the economy has not gotten any better is because the U.S. relies on federal reserves from other countries that ultimately control U.S. money supply.

“The trouble is we got to believe it was always going to be enough to stabilize the economy,” Krugman said. ”What we should’ve known is it’s not that easy.”

What the government can do to alleviate economic woes is to drive down interest rates to zero percent for a year, but this is only a band-aid on a wound.

“We get to the point where short-term debt is zero,” Krugman said. “Then what? The answer is, well, they could still go out and buy more treasury bills. They’ll say, ‘Well credit you with more reserves,’ but then the banks just sit on reserves.”

The federal marketing committee faces a paradox; the “liquidity trap” is a temporary solution that only intensifies the economy’s current condition. “‘Liquidity trap’ is saying what the fed can do for its counterparts is it can add liquidity to the economy that leads to a higher demand, but at a certain point, when the interest rate is zero — people are saturated in liquidity — it cannot do anymore,” he said.

Krugman, an expert in international trade, said that Japan and Chinas’ economies also fell victim to the liquidity trap.

Economists who paid attention to this phenomenon at the

snoda@ramapo.edu

time were better equipped to analyze the crises on the home front.

Krugman’s proposed solutions for the economy include: keeping interest rates low and spending more to employ people and get private businesses out of debt.

Sophomore Mike Korman was fascinated by Krugman’s point that the government should spend more.

"The most interesting thing from the talk was the last question, basically what the government has been doing in the past to increase spending, is not really working now,” Korman said. “The basic problem I got out of it is that the government needs to increase demand and make people spend."

Dean Lewis Chakrin appreciated that Krugman was rational in his arguments.

“He was certainly controversial, by many standards, but he had incredible logic that was hard to argue with and he was able to explain it in plain English,” Chakrin said.

Krugman said that the reason why the economy isn’t recovering quickly has to do with the public’s understanding of the issue. Most Americans, he said, feel that solving the problems is long-term. He argues that the economy can turn around in about 18 months, if citizens change their mindset.

“I try to work on changing narratives to get people to understand,” Krugman said. “A failure to understand the nature of the problem is keeping us stuck. My advice to you all is try to get your elders to appreciate this. This is how you’re going to get a job when you graduate.” manderle@ramapo.edu

VIEWPOINTS

SGA President Seeks Plan for Culture Shift

Thursday, September 30, 2010

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.

By Jason Kri sza SGA President

As a Ramapo student, I have mixed feelings after reflecting on President Peter Mercer’s State of the College Address.

I’m extremely proud of the campus and its accomplishments, and deeply troubled by the alcohol and budgetary problems that we are currently facing. While I personally agree

with a number of the sanctions that the administration has proposed, I do have my regrets. I think the changes in guest policies are just. Furthermore, many of the increased sanctions are a result of our actions as students.

While the policy changes may seem like the right thing to do on the micro level, on the macro level they are incomplete. Mercer spoke of the “culture” at Ramapo, and how he wants to change it. I believe these sanctions will do nothing to change Ramapo’s culture.

I think that, in order for the college to go through a major culture shift, the administration needs to come up with a multi-

faceted plan that addresses the issues that are much larger than alcohol. Mercer said it himself today: “The students have too much time on their hands.”

Mercer then commented on his plans to do away with freshmen cars on campus next year while offering no concrete plans on how to better the student services and activities.

Hearing this, as a student with a vested interest in the future of the college, I am alarmed.

Without a serious plan, it seems as if the college is making policy changes without looking at the bigger picture.

While I think changes in campus policy are necessary from an administrative and safety

Vote for Your Choice, Your Voice

By Charl es Truci l l o

What is Nov. 2, 2010? Well if you don’t know, then you should probably read this article. This year, the second day of November is also the first Tuesday, which makes it Election Day: an important, regularly occurring event throughout the course of American history.

Since the birth of our nation, eligible, responsible Americans have cast their individual opinions to make what could be the deciding vote toward selecting a political official. As we rapidly approach Election Day, candidates running for congressional seats in the mid-term elections have begun to aggressively push their agendas, run ads and hit the campaign trail.

These mid-term elections will serve as a litmus test for the approval of President Obama’s administration and the government under Democratic control. Both parties have begun devising strategies to surpass the other, and either maintain a congressional majority, in the case of the Democrats, or retake a majority of the House and Senate, as with the Republicans.

Republican analysts believe that if their party can win back a substantial amount of seats in Congress, it may be as a promising indicator for the possible election of a Republican presidential candidate in 2012.

Others in support of the Democrats feel that this election should indicate public approval for the president and his policies, and possibly solidify support for a second term.

Many issues are facing critical, firsthand approval ratings, including Obama’s policies on the shift toward universal healthcare through socialized medicine, and brewing feelings toward the current administration’s policies on the war in the Middle East These issues are shaking the base of the liberal

perspective, I think the correct way to create this culture shift is to create venues for students to enjoy themselves responsibly. Whether this means enhancing student activities on campus or providing outlets for students to take advantage of the rich surrounding area is irrelevant.

What is relevant is that, currently, these opportunities are seriously lacking both in quantity and quality. A culture shift is necessary, and I believe that a holistic approach is necessary to create the vision that is shared by both students and staff.

agenda, further illustrating the divide between those who are in favor of enlarging the responsibilities of our government and those who wish to decrease its size and limit its powers.

Throughout the current presidential term, the Democrats have actively sought to fully enact their plans toward socializing healthcare within the United States, against much protest from the Republicans. This election, a Republican faction called the Tea Party is emerging to strip votes from the Democratic base and elect hardworking, honest officials who are determined to derail the Democratic machine, stop the progression of socialized medicine and reduce our taxes.

Whether you find yourself for or against these issues, now is the time to start formulating your opinions and preparing to make an informed decision. At the risk of lecturing, it is an American duty — as well as a privilege — to cast your vote and influence the government. Placing our vote in elections is how we ensure that our voice will be heard in Washington.

As we rapidly approach the month of November, several campus organizations have begun initiatives to register students on campus for the next election.

Those who are not yet registered to vote should seek out a campus organization such as the College Republicans or Democrats, or pick up a voter registration form at your local Department of Motor Vehicles.

In addition, those students who would like to vote but will not be available in their registered home districts on Nov. 2 can apply for and vote with a mail-in absentee ballot by contacting the NJ Division of Elections.

Those who don’t find themselves placing a vote on Election Day should reconsider complaining about future actions taken by the government and representatives in Congress. In turn, their actions will be the result of your conscious decision not to vote. ctrucill@ramapo.edu

jkrisza@ramapo.edu

Have an opinion?

Make your voice heard.

Send a letter to the editor: editor. rcnjnews@ gmail.com

To the Editor,

Thank you for publishing that article about the “NYT” 20 somethings. I read that article myself and found it infuriating and frustrating.

The problem with an opinion piece like that with the backing of “The New York Times” is the affect it has on the demographics that read it. Older generations might read it and start looking down on us with disdain, and parents might start to see us as more of an encumbrance. I know I read that article and immediately started getting down on myself about how little I have succeeded in certain ways. I am sure that I was not the only one who might have felt this way. The article might imply that our age demographic was negatively affected. I am just happy to hear someone speak out about such an egotistical and unwarranted article. The article itself served no one but the author and only spreads vexing feelings to everyone young and old.

So here is a thank you from some random 20-something who feels the same way you do.

Sincerely, Matt Hlavaty

To the Editor,

I know that this is a week late, but I am a member of the field hockey team here and I would like to let you know how disappointed my entire team and I are about the article you wrote regarding our game against Castleton last week. In simple words, it was a disgrace.

It was highly offensive to read your words about how our team has “no chemistry.”

Also, writing about how we “blew every opportunity we had” was downright outrageous. The fact that you mentioned all of the great plays Castleton made and how great their chemistry was very degrading to read. Were you writing the article for Castleton or Ramapo?

Another point was that you were at the game for 70 minutes and you only managed to get two pictures. You really portrayed our team in a poor manner, and we are all very unhappy with you and the rest of the sports staff. We are not asking for a great article when we lost a big game, but we just ask for your support as a fellow Ramapo student. We also understand that we are plagued by injuries but we plan to overcome it as a team, and you should recognize that instead of saying our season is over.

Hopefully the next time you cover a sporting event, you realize the hard work the team is putting in, and try to focus more on the positive. We understand this is your job, but at the end of the day you are a Roadrunner too and should be more supportive of us and the rest of the athletic teams.

Thanks, Katie Bruno

ARTS

&

E N T E RTA I N M E N T

Highly Acclaimed Poet Visits Ramapo

Thursday, September 30, 2010

Marie Howe Starts Off Semester’s “Readings at Ramapo”

BY DANIELLE REED AND MAGGIE SCARPELLI Staff Writers

Poetry Reading

Ramapo College had the honor of having Marie Howe, an acclaimed poet, kick off this semester’s Readings at Ramapo events.

Professor James Hoch, director of Readings at Ramapo, started the night by setting the tone for the audience before Howe took the stage with her powerful poetry.

Hoch introduced Howe by telling the audience about Howe’s impressive background.

She is the author of three volumes of poetry: “The Kingdom of Ordinary Time” (2008), “The Good Thief” (1998), and “What the Living Do” (1997), and is the co-editor of a book of essays, “In the Company of My Solitude: American Writing from the AIDS Pandemic” (1994).

Howe’s poetry came to life during the reading. As she read, the room grew still and heavy with emotion.

Howe grew up in a suburban area with a very large family and is the oldest of nine children. One of her closest siblings, John, died in 1989 of an AIDS-related illness.

Howe’s painful past greatly influences her poetry and the themes she chooses to write about. Her three major works relate back to different times in her life.

Howe’s poetry came to life during the reading. As she read, the room grew still and heavy with emotion, almost as if the audience could shared Howe’s emotions. The public was able to appreciate each piece of Howe’s work deeply as she elaborated on the meanings of each poem. She chose readings from each one of her poetry volumes.

Howe’s insight allowed the audience to fully connect with her past and to her work.

Howe’s technique allows her to write about extremely personal issues with a disconnected tone. Her talent enables her to steer clear from the personal narrative and allows her to write as if she was just a guest in her own life. Howe’s poetry is able to take the everyday tussle to another level of reality.

Her readings left the audience with normal, everyday images ingrained in their minds in a completely twisted and new way. Howe brings to the surface that everyone struggles and suffers from tragedies but few can brave through it all, like she did. dreed1@ramapo.edu

Poet Marie Howe visited Ramapo on Monday and performed a reading of some of her works.

Q&A Session

On Monday, students were given the chance to attend a Q&A session in the Trustee’s Pavilion at 4 p.m. with Marie Howe, a local poet whose works are being studied by several classes here at Ramapo this semester.

The session began with a brief introduction of the poet by Professor James Hoch, who then turned the stage over to Professor Monika Giacoppe and finally Howe, the star of the evening.

Giacoppe conducted an interview with Howe before opening the floor to the audience for individual questions. Giacoppe discussed Howe’s inspiration, as well as what inspired her to become a writer.

“When I was your age I didn’t think I could be a creative writer,” Howe said when discussing how she began her career.

Throughout the interview, Howe discussed that after she had started working as a high school teacher, she began attending

a creative writing workshop. She cites Poet Laureate Stanley Kunitz as a major teacher in her life.

During the interview Howe answered questions regarding her writing style, and specifically explained why she does not often use metaphors.

“I liked the way she spoke,” freshman Tiffany Liang said. “When she said, ‘To compare something with something else is to take away from that thing,’ I thought that was really cool.”

Throughout the interview and student questions, Howe discussed how many of her poems were inspired by her brother, John, who died of AIDS. She talked about the importance of focusing on the moment and how these moments are reflected in her poetry.

“Any art, whether it’s music or painting, rock and roll, poetry wants us be in the moment,” Howe said.

Many of the students’ questions focused

photo by Stefanie Mauro

on her writing process and advice she would give to other writers.

“There’s a lot to say about the process and I write fiction, so she gave me a new perspective on the writing process,” sophomore Josh McLean said.

Howe also treated the Q&A session as an open forum where she discussed her work, as well as the creative process and feelings behind her poems with students.

“I write 100 poems and keep two,” Howe said when discussing how to deal with feelings of un-creativity.

One student brought up the poem “Without Music” and the confusion he felt while reading it. Howe had him read the poem and then discussed the poem with several members of the audience who expressed their view of the poem.

The Q&A session ended around 5 p.m. and was followed by a poetry reading that began at 7 p.m. in the Trustee’s Pavilion. mscarpel@ramapo.edu

Page 9 The Ramapo News

Thursday, September 30, 2010

Queer Coffeehouse Creates Comfortable Environment Page 10 The Ramapo News

Thursday, September 30, 2010

By ERIK GAVILANES Staff Writer

The Women’s Center held its first coffee house event of the semester last Thursday and played host to a night of fun, while providing a warm and inviting environment for the LGBT community. “Our goal is mainly to get the LGBT community on campus to come together for a night to just relax, hang out, eat snacks and sing karaoke,” Shane Hoff, senior and Queer Peer Service Coordinator at the Women’s Center, said.

The coffeehouse, which was mysteriously

“Where I’m from, people don’t really use the word ‘gay,’ but coming here, it’s just really accepted.”

-Alex Devries, freshman

missing coffee, featured games and snacks, as well as a karaoke setup. The focus of the night was clearly to create an atmosphere in which one could feel accepted. Alex Devries, a freshman from Michigan, found that in the coffeehouse and in his overall Ramapo experience so far.

photo by Stefanie Mauro

The Womenʼs Center held “A Night Out: Queer Coffeehouse” last Thursday.

The goal was to create a comfortable environment for the LBGT community.

“Where I’m from, people don’t really use the word ‘gay,’ but coming here, it’s just really accepted,” he said. “People have actually gone out of their way to say to me that their cool with it.”

The atmosphere was such that it provided the perfect opportunity for an uninhibited

karaoke performance, like the one by freshman Caroline Vicari. Vicari gave the kind of performance normally reserved for a close group of friends or a night out drinking. She excitedly sang along to “Fergalicious,” while showing off her dance skills and ad-libbing chops before a

friendly crowd.

While the event’s top priority was to provide a safe and friendly environment for the LGBT community, there were still concerns that certain students may choose not to attend. “I know guys on campus that are in the closet. I don’t know if they wouldn’t come, but they’re not here right now,” said Devries. And while the struggle to attend an event such as the Queer Coffeehouse may be greater for some individuals, the message remains the same in reaching out those students.

Anghy Chacon, a freshman, said, “People totally shouldn’t be afraid to come, just because you come doesn’t mean you’re gay; everyone’s just being friendly.”

Those in the LGBT community and their straight allies are encouraged to attend, but the invitation is for anyone.

“These events are open to everyone. Just because its LGBT, doesn’t mean it’s just for LGBT,” Hoff said.

We have a strong straight allies presence and its open to people outside of Pride. If you are an artist that wants to perform or just like karaoke, check out our upcoming events,” Hoff said.

Moe’s Southwest Grill Celebrates Five-Year Anniversary

By ASHLEY DRAPKIN Staff Writer

On Saturday, Moe’s, a local southwestern restaurant in Mawhah, celebrated its fiveyear anniversary with a day of raffles, live music and giveaways.

Moe’s was filled with hungry customers lining up to buy food, and as soon as one group of people finished eating another replaced them right away. A few anxious people even asked other customers if they were staying for the performances or leaving so that they would have someplace to sit.

“I had nowhere to sit and didn’t think I’d be able to watch any of the bands perform because every table was taken,” explained Courtney Butch, an attendee of the event.

“I ended up asking a few people if they were staying and luckily they were getting up to leave, and gave my friends and I a

erikgavilanes@yahoo.com

seat,” she said.

“Since Moe’s was crazy busy they had messed up my order and charged me for the wrong thing as well as gave me the wrong order. When I went up to them to tell them they were really nice and really into making the customer happy,” said Gina Anselmi, a Ramapo College student.

“The turnout was perfect and just what I was expecting or at least hoping for, especially during Maybe Rob’s set.”

-Jeffrey Bieljeski

“They ended up giving me nine Moe’s dollars and a free t-shirt,” she added.

Throughout the day, hundreds of customers were constantly circling through

photo courtesy of Flickrʼs Creative Commons

Moeʼs is a popular Southwest style restaurant in Mahwah.

photo courtesy of Maybe Rob

Maybe Rob, a band made up of Ramapo Students, performed at Moeʼs five year anniversary celebration.

Moe’s. One of the bands that provided the entertainment was Maybe Rob, a band made up of Ramapo students. The band members include Rob Talolly (guitar), Craig Wolfe (singer), Frank Levering (rhythm guitar), Mitch Gorbunoff (bass), and Matt Romanchick (drums). Maybe Rob has performed at Moe’s a few other times prior to the anniversary celebration.

“I was surprised at the turn out, but it was a good surprise,” commented Talolly about the amount of people at the event.

Jeffrey Bieljeski, another Ramapo student, also played a role in the celebration.

Bieljeski booked the acts at Moe’s and organized the entertainment portion of the day. He also ran the giveaways and made sure everything went smoothly.

“The turnout was perfect and just what I was expecting or at least hoping for, especially during Maybe Rob’s set,” Bieljeski said. “The restaurant was packed, every table and seat were taken. I couldn’t have asked for more,” he added.

From now until December, Moe’s and Bieljeski will be teaming up to put on other successful performances.

“Overall we’re just trying to set up a nice atmosphere where people can relax and enjoy some delicious food and listen to great local music,” Beiljeski said.

“Moe’s had a successful five-year anniversary and hopefully many more to come,” Butch added. adrapkin@ramapo.edu

Banned Book Night Unites Students Against Censorship

Page 11 The Ramapo News

Thursday, September 30, 2010

By JULIANNE BRANDA Staff Writer

We’ve all heard of the three taboos: religion, politics and sex. The subjects you don’t talk about in mixed company, but are basically the basis of every thought and concept one can imagine. It’s difficult to think of a book for people over the age of ten that does not address at least one of these topics. However, a lot of these books wind up getting banned, along with the countless others that confront these issues at full speed.

Enter censorship. While it’s becoming less of a common occurrence, especially on college campuses, Sigma Tau Delta, Ramapo’s Literature Honor Society, held a Banned Books Night to raise awareness about the scores of books, including many that are now considered classics, that have been banned in the past. The event was in accordance with Banned Books Week, which was founded by the American Library Association to call attention to this issue.

“As literature majors, we get mad when a book is banned or censored, so this event raises awareness.”

-Caitlin Cascey

It is common knowledge that censorship affects television and music, but we seldom think of it affecting the books we read in middle school and high school, like “The Great Gatsby” or even “James and the Giant Peach”. At one point in our history, these books were censored and removed from the eyes of the public for mostly petty reasons, along with blatantly “offensive” works such as “Lolita” and “A Clockwork Orange”.

In honor of Banned Books Week, several Ramapo students congregated in J. Lee’s around hot chocolate and cookies to

Photo by Brendan Flanagan

Sigma Tau Delta, Ramapoʼs Literature Honor Society, sponsored a Banned Books Night to raise awareness about classiscs that have been banned in the past.

read excerpts from their favorite banned books and to discuss why they were censored in the first place. Some students read the poetry of Emily Dickinson and Walt Whitman, which was likely banned for some of the homoerotic themes and symbolism within the text. Other books, such as “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy”, and even “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone”, were censored because of the allusions to Christianity and witchcraft. On the politics end, George Orwell’s “1984” was excerpted.

When the night was over, Sigma Tau Delta’s president Brendan Flanagan and secretary Caitlin Cascey were both enthused that the event had gone so well. “It was a great

opportunity to celebrate the fight against censorship and ask people what they think,” Flanagan said. “We had a great turnout for a late night event, and it was a great opportunity to talk, because people don’t do enough about censorship.

As literature majors, we get mad when a book is banned or censored, so this event raises awareness, and it’s one small step to enlightening more people. Plus its fun,” Cascey mused. The event provided an excellent forum for students to all join together in honor of free speech and artistic freedom.

A&E Around Campus

Thursday, September 30: Female Friendly Funk

Late Night Events

Friday, October 1:

Toy Story 3 Screening

9:30p.m.-11:30 p.m.

Laurel Courts

Cartel and Saves the Day Concert 8 p.m.

Bradley Center

Saturday, October 2: Carnival

2 p.m.- 6 p.m.

Bandshell

Bonfire

7 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Gravel Lot

jbranda1@ramapo.edu

9 p.m. - 12 a.m.

Auxiliary Gym 9 p.m.

Bandshell

Haunted Mansion 9 p.m.- 11p.m.

Birch Mansion

Sunday, October 3:

Powderpuff Football Game 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.

Bandshell

New York Film Festival Showcases Up-and-Coming Talent Page 12 The Ramapo News

Thursday, September 30, 2010

By ALMERRY MARTINS Staff Writer

On Friday, movie -goers everywhere excitedly welcomed the 48th annual New York Film Festival. Ever since its beginnings in 1963, the festival has allowed avid film fans to watch the works of some of the best, new and important filmmakers from around the world.

The 17-day event showcases films chosen by the selection committee, which is chaired

by Richard Peña, program director of the Film Society of Lincoln Center. The com-

photo courtesy of Flickrʼs Creative Commons

“The Social Network” is the highly anticiipated drama about Mark Zuckerberg, the creator of Facebook.

photo courtesy of Flickrʼs Creative Commons

The 48th New York Film Festival runs from Sept. 24 - Oct. 10.

mittee also includes: Melissa Anderson, contributor to “The Village Voice,” Scott Foundas, associate program director of the Film Society of Lincoln Center, Dennis

photo courtesy of Flickrʼs Creative Commons

“The Tempest” is based on a Shakespearean play of the same name.

Lim, editor of “Moving Image Source & Freelance Critic,” and Todd McCarthy, critic for indieWire.com.

Opening night kicked off with the highly anticipated drama, “The Social Network.”

Adapted from Ben Mezrich’s 2009 book “The Accidental Billionaires,” director David Fincher brings to life Aaron Sorkin’s script on the founding of the global social website Facebook.

The film’s cast includes names like Jesse Eisenberg, who plays Mark Zuckerberg, the co-founder of Facebook, Andre W. Garfield, Justin Timberlake, Brenda Song, Max Minghella, Rooney Mara and Armie Hammer. “The Social Network” is set to release on Oct. 1.

The event’s centerpiece, “The Tempest,” is based on the play by William Shakespeare.

Both screenings for this movie will take place on Oct. 2. This movie premiered at the Venice Film Festival earlier this month. The movie was directed and written by Julie Taymor. Some stars of the “The Tempest” are Russell Brand, Alfred Molina, Djimon Hounsou, David Strathairn, Chris Cooper and Alan Cumming. “The Tempest” is set to release on Dec. 10.

Closing the event on Oct. 10 will be Clint

photo courtesy of Flickrʼs Creative Commons

“Hereafter,” a thriller, will close the FIlm Festival on Oct. 10.

Eastwood’s adaptation of Peter Morgan’s screenplay, “Hereafter.” With a cast headed

by Matt Damon and Cécile de France, “Hereafter” is about a factory worker who somehow is able to communicate with the dead and begins questioning whether he’s been gifted or cursed after encountering three people affected by death in different ways. Hereafter is set to release on Oct. 22.

For more information on the festival, and to purchase tickets for upcoming shows, visit the film festival’s website at http://www.filmlinc.com/nyff/2010/. martins814@yahooo.com

RAMAPO SPORTS

Women’s Volleyball Loses to Conference Rival

By RYAN BUCHANAN Staff Writer

The women’s volleyball team lost a tough game against New Jersey Athletic Conference rival Stockton College last Thursday. The Stockton Ospreys were the top seed in the pre-season NJAC rankings, and they proved themselves last Thursday, defeating the Roadrunners 25-10, 25-16, and 25-18 in three games in a best-of-five series.

Ramapo, seeded second before the season started, holds a 9-2 overall record despite the loss, which was their first conference defeat.

The game was heavily advertised throughout the Ramapo campus. From the Berrie Center walkway to the Bradley Center, the ground was covered in messages written in chalk saying “Bradley Center 7 p.m. vs.

Stockton,” “this is gonna be huge” and “you don’t wanna miss it.” The anticipation for the game was widespread and even though they lost the game was very entertaining.

Before the match, the crowd got to watch the team practice in impressive and entertaining spiking and setting drills, while highenergy pump-up tracks played on the public address system.

Assistant Coach Bill Lee feels the team can

win if they execute and control the tempo on the court.

“We have to win the serve, receive and control the offense,” Lee said. “If we can control our offense we have a good chance of being pretty successful.”

Around 300 people attended the highly anticipated match. The crowd came armed with vuvuzuela-like horns to blow whenever players such as Alison DeAngelo, Maura Burke, and Michelle Ferrari recorded an impressive kill. Someone often blew a horn humorously in response to mishaps.

Lee recognized some of those mistakes that led to Ramapo’s defeat.

“We had a lot of blocking issues, and when they gave us opportunities we couldn’t get a good swing back,” Lee said.

Setter Tiffany Fischer noted a weak spot during the match against Stockton.

“They were beating us around the middle,” Fischer said. “They’re a really good team.”

Fischer produced a strong game, manufacturing 23 assists. Her ability to make a diving assist at nearly every given spot on the floor creates an exciting style of play. One diving save in particular resulted in likely the most memorable moment of the match.

During the second match she dived to her

near fullest extent to save the point and help Alison DeAngelo get the kill.

Ramapo scored a few noteworthy points at

“If we can control our offense we have a good chance of being pretty successful.”

-Bill Lee, Assistant Coach

scattered times in each game, but Stockton produced impressive sets and spikes all game.

Stockton Head Coach Alison Walker expressed pride in her team, who improved to 15-3 on the season.

“We played as a team, Walker said. “Every single one of my players showed up to play today.”

Ramapo did not let the loss set them back as they earned three straight victories over USMMA, Baruch, and Wesley in the Baruch College Tournament in New York City.

Their next match will be against Montclair State University on Thursday at 7 p.m. in the Bradley Center. rbuchana@ramapo.edu

Hard Knocks on Horizon for Braylon Edwards

By JEREMY KELLY Staff Writer

In recent years, the New York Jets have threatened to overtake the Giants as the more popular football team from East Rutherford. They have undoubtedly become the more publicized team, and the newest development from wide receiver Braylon Edwards only adds fuel to the fire.

New York police arrested Edwards in the early morning of Sept. 21 after registering a blood alcohol level of 0.16—twice the legal limit—on a Breathalyzer test. He has been charged with driving while intoxicated and is due in court on Nov. 9 and could face up to a year in prison if convicted. His driver’s license has also been suspended.

At approximately 4:47 a.m. on Sept. 21, police pulled over Edwards’ white Land Rover on Manhattan’s West Side because of his tinted windows. They noticed a strong smell of alcohol, and Edwards admitted to drinking. The Michigan native was then arrested after taking the breathalyzer test.

Edwards is currently on probation from an infamous incident in October 2009, just days before his trade from the Cleveland Browns, when he punched local party promoter Edward Givens at 2:30 a.m. outside a club. Edwards was charged with misdemeanor assault and would plead no contest to aggravated assault. However, the National Football League did not punish

him.

A league source said that if Edwards is convicted of the new charge or pleads no contest he could face a suspension under the league’s personal conduct policy. Head Coach Rex Ryan was reportedly “infuriated” with the incident, and several of the Jets’ players have said that they were disappointed by Edwards’ “selfishness and disregard” for the organization. Under the Collective Bargaining Agreement, the Jets cannot punish Edwards in a manner other than what the NFL ultimately decides.

photo courtesty of Flickr Creative Commons

Braylon Edwards played against the Dolphins on Sunday after getting arrested earlier in the week.

There were four people in the car besides Edwards. Two of them were fellow Jets teammates D’Brickashaw Ferguson and Vernon Gholston. General Manager Mike Tannenbaum said that none of the players would be charged.

The embattled wide receiver is no stranger to legal troubles. In the last eight years he has been pulled over by police seven times for speeding. The most recent speeding violation occurred in October 2008 when he was pulled over for driving 120 miles per hour in a 65 mph zone. In March 2009, Edwards was drinking with then-teammate Donte’ Stallworth the night Stallworth killed a pedestrian while driving drunk.

However, Edwards was not at the scene of the crime.

Edwards played, but did not start, on Sunday in the Jets’ game against the Miami Dolphins. Despite sitting out the first quarter, Edwards caught a 67-yard touchdown pass in the third quarter to help the Jets win.

Ryan’s decision to keep Edwards active garnered much criticism, with many people believing that the team should have enacted a stricter punishment to set an example for other players in the league. jkelly7@ramapo.edu

Thursday, September 30, 2010

This Week in Ramapo Sports

Thursday:

Women’s Volleyball vs.

Montclair State University at 7 p.m.

Friday:

Men’s and Women’s Cross Country Paul Short Run @ Lehigh University

Saturday:

Women’s Volleyball vs.

College of Mount St. Vincent @ Riversdale, NY at 11 a.m Women’s Volleyball vs.

Saint Joseph’s College Brooklyn @ Riversdale, NY at 12 p.m.

Men’s Soccer vs.

University at 1 p.m.

Kean

Women’s Soccer @ Kean University at 1 p.m.

Women’s Tennis vs. The City College of NY at 1 p.m.

Women’s Field Hockey vs.

Keystone College at 3 p.m.

Sunday:

Powder Puff Game at 1 p.m.

Monday:

Women’s Volleyball vs. York College at 7 p.m.

Tuesday:

Field Hockey vs. Montclair State University at 4 p.m.

Women’s Tennis vs. William Patterson University at 6 p.m.

Women’s Soccer @ Manhatanville College at 7 p.m.

Wednesday: Men’s Soccer vs.

University at 7 p.m.

Drew

New York Football Teams Heading in Opposite Directions Page 14 The Ramapo News

Thursday, September 30, 2010

Jets Win Second Straight Against Dolphins While Giants Lose Second Straight Against Titans

By S EAN RITCHIE Staff Writer

The National Football League season is off and running and week three did not disappoint.

Although many teams won crucial games this week, none were as big as the wins by the Minnesota Vikings and Dallas Cowboys. Only five teams in NFL history have made the playoffs after starting the season 0-3, so both teams knew the importance of picking up their first victory of the season. Both Minnesota and Dallas stepped up and resurrected their hopes for the season by winning.

Minnesota beat the Detroit Lions 24-10, but Brett Favre continued his poor play with one touchdown pass and two interceptions in the win. The nail might have been placed in the Vikings’ season if not for Adrian Peterson’s impressive performance of 160 yards and two rushing touchdowns. Favre needs to step up his play if the Vikings want to have a winning record, let alone make the playoffs.

Dallas handed the Houston Texans their first loss of the season in a battle of the two Texas teams. Roy Williams produced his best game as a Cowboy, piling up 117 receiving yards and scoring two touchdowns in the win.

On the opposite side of the spectrum, teams like the Falcons and Bears broke their pretender tags and firmly put themselves in the contender category. The Falcons handed

the defending champion New Orleans Saints their first loss of the season in dramatic overtime fashion, beating them 27-24. They were fortunate enough to be handed a second chance at a victory after the Saints missed a short field goal attempt that would have sealed the game. Still, the game was very promising for the Falcons, who are now tied with the Saints and Tampa Bay Buccaneers for first place in the NFC South.

The Bears were able to beat the Packers in the closing minutes of the game due to a fumble by James Jones. The Packers were favored at the start of the game, but the Bears defense emerged as a force to be reckoned with. Brian Urlacher leads this impressive defense, which is currently ranked on

top of the league in rushing defense. This game cemented the fact that they are here to stay.

Michael Vick secured his starting role in Philadelphia with three passing touchdowns and a rushing touchdown. There was a great debate in Philadelphia over who should start in week three. Head Coach Andy Reid overturned his original stance on starting Kevin Kolb and decided to give the reigns to Vick.

Vick is more famous for his off- the-field debacles than his performance on the field.

Yet, he has resurrected his career and the amazingly seems to be playing better than he ever has before.

The New York Giants crumbled and unfolded at the seams, losing 29-10 to the Titans.

photo courtesy of Flickr Creative Commons

Former Oklahoma running back Adrian Peterson has continued his dominance in the NFL, emerging as one of the top players in the league.

Eli Manning proved that he was capable of moving the ball down the field by throwing 386 passing yards, yet he lacked good decision-making, throwing two interceptions.

The week leading up to the game did not aid the play on the field. It was full of distractions by supposed trade demands from Brandon Jacobs and comments made by Antrel Rolle about the organization.

The supposed “Jersey B” Jets solidified their Super Bowl hopes with a hard fought win over the division rival Dolphins, winning 31-23. The Jets are proving to be more formidable than imagined this season. The defense held up even though injured Darrelle Revis did not play due to a hamstring injury. Much like the Giants, the week leading up to the game was also filled with distractions. Braylon Edwards was arrested for driving while intoxicated after blowing a .16 in the breathalyzer, twice the legal limit.

However, the Jets, under leadership from Head Coach Rex Ryan, did not let this affect their play. It also did not distract Edwards, who scored a 67-yard touchdown on his first reception of the game.

The NFL season so far is filled with great play and intriguing storylines. Teams are coming out of nowhere to make statements for their title hopes, and teams expected to contend are falling apart. sritchi1@ramapo.edu

NFL WEEK 4 STAFF PICKS

Week 4 Matchups

Tom Babcock Last Week (2-4) This Season (4-8)

Andrew Gould Last Week (N/A) This Season (N/A)

Almerry Martins Last Week (3-3) This Season (8-4)

Sean Ritchie Last Week (4-2) This Season (7-5)

Jeremy Kelly Last Week (2-4) This Season (6-6)

Jake Edinger Last Week (4-2) This Season (6-6)

BAL @ PIT

Steelers

Steelers

Ravens

Ravens

Steelers

Steelers

WAS @ PHI

Eagles

Redskins

Eagles

Eagles

Eagles

Eagles

SEA @ STL

Seahawks

Rams

Rams

Seahawks

Seahawks

Seahawks

ARI @ SD

Chargers

Chargers

Chargers

Chargers

Chargers

Chargers

NE @ MIA

Patriots

Dolphins

Patriots

Patriots

Patriots

Patriots

CHI @ NYG

Giants

Bears

Bears

Bears

Giants

Giants

Autumn of Carmelo: Nets, Knicks Interested in Acquiring Anthony Page 15 The Ramapo News

Thursday, September 30, 2010

Nets Not Out of Race to Land Star Forward Despite Proposed Deal Falling Through

By JAKE EDINGER Staff Writer

A rumored four-team trade that would have sent perennial All-Star Carmelo Anthony to the New Jersey Nets has been shot down.

Reports last week indicated that the Nets and the Denver Nuggets were close to reaching a deal that would Anthony to New Jersey in a trade would also include the Charlotte Bobcats and Utah Jazz. Originally, the Nets would have sent power forward Derrick Favors, who the Nets selected with the third pick of last year’s draft, to the Nuggets along with two future first round draft picks, one of which the Nets received from the Golden State Warriors. The Nuggets would have received Utah Jazz forward Andrei Kirilenko, who is in the final year of his contract. The Jazz would have acquired forward Boris Diaw from the Charlotte Bobcats along with the Nets’ Quinton Ross.

The Charlotte Bobcats would have gained the Nets’ guard Devin Harris, who struggled last season after posting All-Star numbers in 2008. The Nets attempted to acquire D.J Augustin from Charlotte to replace Harris, but the Bobcats wanted to keep the young point guard to play off the bench.

While the inclusion of Augustin did not seem to be a deal breaker, the Nets said that they would not go through with the trade unless Anthony committed to signing a multi-year extension. Anthony, who enters the final year of his current contract this sea-

photo courtesy of Flickr Creative Commons

Carmelo Anthony, anxious to join a team that can build a dynasty, might have played his last game in Denver.

son, expressed uncertainty about signing a long-term deal with the Nets.

On Monday, Anthony wore the Nuggets’ powder blue and gold uniform and gave no indication that he would be traded.

“I’m here, man,” Anthony said to the Denver media. “I’m here today. Whatever the future holds, it holds.”

Many people believe that Anthony wants to join Amare Stoudemire and play for the

New York Knicks. New Orleans Hornets’ point guard Chris Paul said at Antony’s wedding in New York that he and Anthony should team up with Stoudemire in the Big Apple. The Knicks seem to be Anthony’s first choice because of his love for New York City, but the Knicks have few draft picks or players that would interest the Nuggets.

There have also been rumors of Anthony going to the Chicago Bulls to play with

Carlos Boozer, Derrick Rose, and Joakim Noah. Anthony will most likely land on a team that already has established superstars.

After witnessing the “Summer of LeBron” it is not a surprise to see teams attempt to bunch stars together in order to take down the three-headed monster of LeBron James, Dwayne Wade, and Chris Bosh in Miami.

Whoever wins the new sweepstakes of adding Carmelo Anthony, whether it is the Knicks, Nets, Bulls, or even the Clippers, will add one of the league’s most dynamic offensive threats and an established superstar.

Anthony averaged 28.2 points per game last season with the Denver Nuggets and has averaged 24.7 points per game in his sevenyear playing career. Anthony contains every aspect of a great offensive game, ranking only behind Kevin Durant and James in scoring last season. He is able to score from the field and from behind the three-point arc while still maintaining a career 80.1% from the free throw line. Perhaps Anthony’s most dangerous threat is his ability to knock down mid-range jump shots at a seemingly automatic rate.

Adding Carmelo Anthony to a team already equipped with another star will not only elevate each player’s numbers and play on the court, but it will instantly cause the team he chooses to be a contender for the playoffs and maybe a championship. jedinger@rampo.edu

End of MLB Season Opens Door for Intriguing Award Races

AL Cy Young Race Will Show How Much Writers Value Wins Compared to Other Statistics

By CHRIS ARNDT Staff Writer

The race for the Cy Young, Most Valuable Player, and Rookie of the Year awards are close with several pitchers and hitters delivering outstanding performances during the regular season.

Several pitchers have won 20 games by consistently tossing dominating outings.

There was even a close race for the Triple Crown for the first time in many years.

Although power numbers have steadily decreased league-wide since the end of the Steroid Era, several players have hit over 35 home runs, including perennial All-Stars Albert Pujols and Miguel Cabrera. The race for the Cy Young and MVP are sure to come down to the wire.

The American League and National League Cy Young Awards have come down to two pitchers for each league. For the AL, C.C. Sabathia of the Yankees leads the AL with 21 wins and has been the anchor of the Yankees staff, which has been shaky at best after him.

Felix Hernandez of the Mariners is also in contention. With a record of just 13-12 it would seem that he would not have a shot at the award, but his outstanding 2.27 ERA and his overpowering stuff has kept him alive.

Hernandez also receives no run support from the Mariners, who rank last in baseball in nearly every offensive category.

In the NL the 2003 recipient of the award, Roy Halladay, is looking to take home his

second Cy Young. Halladay has a record of 21-10 and has kept the Phillies in postseason contention along with former Houston Astros’ ace Roy Oswalt. Cardinals’ Adam Wainwright is right behind Halladay with a record of 20-11. Wainwright finished second in the voting last year and hopes to make a stronger case for the award this season.

The MVP race has seen some familiar faces mixed in with a few young stars this season.

IThere is no clear-cut favorite in he AL, but there are many that could receive the award.

Josh Hamilton of the Rangers, Miguel Cabrera of the Tigers, and Robinson Cano of the Yankees are three players certainly in contention for the award. Other possible candidates include Rays’ Evam Longoria and Twins’ Joe Mauer, who won the award in 2009.

The NL MVP race is extremely intriguing this season. Rockies’ Carlos Gonzalez is having a remarkable season, batting .340 with 34 home runs and 117 runs batted in.

Troy Tulowitzki has also produced a stellar

photo courtesy of Flickr Creative Commons

Despite his 13-12 record, Felix Hernandez leads the American League in innings pitched, ERA, and strikeouts and is a top contender for the AL Cy Young Award.

season for the Rockies. Tulowitzki has a .318 batting average during the season and has carried the Rockies late in the season with 15 home runs in September. Albert Pujols, who belongs in the MVP discussion almost every season, is having another machine-like year with a .313 average, 42 homeruns, and 117 RBIs. The Reds’ Joey Votto has become one of the league’s best hitters over the past few seasons. Votto’s .325 average, 37 home runs and 111 RBIs make him a strong candidate to win the award.

The Rookie of the Year award also has several strong contenders this season. In the AL, Tigers’ outfielder Brennan Boesch hit 14 home runs and 66 RBIs, but his production significantly declined as the season progressed. Neftali Feliz, who has become the closer for the Rangers, has recorded 38 saves in 41 tries.

In the NL, a slew of rookies have impressed critics. Braves’ Jason Heyward and Cubs’ Tyler Colvin have had strong offensive and defensive seasons. However, Giants’ catcher Buster Posey appears to be the frontrunner with his cannon of an arm and cleanup hitter-type numbers. Posey has belted 16 homeruns and driven in 64 RBIs after the Giants promoted him at the end of May. carndt@ramapo.edu

SPORTS

DRAW! 9 . 30 . 10

Ramapo men始s soccer ties Rutgers-Newark 0-0. photo by Mike Jagendorf

X