SPORTS: Track Continues Success with Season ~ page 13
A&E: American Idol Recap ~ page 8
THE RAMAPO NEWS Kappa Sigma Brothers Get Groomed
A publication by the students for the Ramapo College community
THURSDAY, April 22, 2010
XL No. 22
Fraternity Raises Awareness By Buzzing and Waxing
By AMY FEZZA Staff Writer
Kappa Sigma fraternity opted to shave their heads for their third annual Buzz Away Cancer fundraiser to raise money and awareness. As an incentive to raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, a member of the fraternity had his head shaved for every $40 that was raised during the threehour event. Since Kappa Sigma’s on-campus origin in 2007, the fraternity has been known for their philanthropic work. “Sometimes it’s hard to have a positive light on a fraternity, but we believe that this shows what we’re really all about,” said Joshua Shalikar, member of Kappa Sigma and co-creator of the event. By the end of the day, the Greek organization raised a total of $3,148.74. In Kappa Sigma’s three-year involvement, $5,500 has been raised for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. “I couldn’t have asked for more,” Shalikar said, in regard to the event’s success. On a cloudy Tuesday afternoon, Kappa Sigma’s event lured in friends, students and faculty to the Arch, as music blasted and Theta Phi Alpha girls sheared away at the boys’ heads. When this particular philanthropy started,
Theta Phi Alpha was willing to help cosponsor the event. “All of the money goes to a really good
the idea because of their personal experiences. “My mother was diagnosed with
photo courtesy of Mike Taussir
The brothers of Kappa Sigma waxed their chests each time $5 was donated. Above, Mike Taussi waxes his chest for a good cause.
cause. We all like to be involved and contribute to something like this. We teamed up with Kappa three years ago and we’re definitely going to continue this,” said Mandy Saffer, a member of Theta Phi Alpha. Shalikar and Tyler Kademian came up with
Lymphoma, but is now in remission. This is a chance for us to commemorate and honor people who go through something as terrible as this,” Shalikar said. The atmosphere surrounding the Ramapo Arch was lively; friends, students and pro-
fessors all wanted to get involved. “I support this cause and I enjoy watching brothers mutilate their heads for such a horrific disease,” senior Noah Dennison said. Friends of the fraternity took the opportunity to donate $5 to wax off any part of a brother’s body. “I was able to wax Brad Zuckerwise. I felt bad for him because no hair came off — he just felt pain. But that was fun,” sophomore Megan McHugh said. Waxing was a new addition to the event this year. Kappa brothers bit the bullet for the sake of raising a few extra dollars. “This is the first time I’m being waxed. The sharp pain I feel for that moment does not amount to the pain that everyone with this disease deals with,” Kappa Sigma brother Matt Hlavaty said. Throughout the event, brother Andrej Necaj delivered factual information regarding cancer-related issues. By doing so, he encouraged the crowd to gather even more people to donate. “Every four minutes, a person in the U.S. is diagnosed with Lung cancer,” Necaj said, while trying to present a shock to the audience. The levels on the buzzer were from 0-4,
Greeks Game and Unite for Greek Week By MARIS S A TORR Staff Writer
Greek Week has been truncated into two weekends this year, after administration complained that students were cutting class to attend events. Activities occurred last weekend, and more will occur this weekend. “Greek Week is a week that represents the four pillars of fraternity and sorority life: academics, service, leadership and brotherhood/sisterhood,” said Lindsay Ross, a senior member of Tri-Sigma. All of the events during Greek Week relate to each of the four pillars. The two weekends share a plethora of events with different aims. “All the organizations compete with one another during competitions and sporting events; however, some events, like the guest speaker Kevin Snyder, and the community service project, ‘Take the Walk,’ bring the Greek community together,” said Ross, .
Shà Quan Holmes, of Lambda Theta Phi Latin Fraternity, Inc., likes the feeling of brotherhood in his fraternity. This feeling is shared by many involved in the event. “I got involved because I wanted to be part of something that was bigger than myself,” said Jonathan N. Velez, a graduate assistant of Fraternity and Sorority Life. “I really took into their mission of breaking down social and cultural barriers on campuses, as well as the surrounding community.” Other events that bring Greek life together include an alumni barbeque and a Greek awards banquet. “Greek Week is a week filled with good hearted yet competitive activities between Greek life on campus. It brings the Greek community together as a whole,” Melissa Zak, a junior in tri-Sigma, said. Charlotte Rogers, a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., sees Greek Week a bit differently. “[Greek Week] is battle ground for Greeks
photo courtesy of Melissa Zak
Melissa Zak, a junior in tri-Sigma, participated in Greek Week.
see BUZZ on page 6
on campus. It’s supposed to be a week filled with friendly competition and Greek unity, but it’s not. I believe that the competition is anything more than friendly,” Rogers said. Being in a sorority or fraternity isn’t just fun and games; each of the Greek organizations has a community service project that they must complete annually. Tri-Sigma’s philanthropy is the Robbie Page Memorial Fund. “The money goes toward local hospitals for children’s play therapy. It helps children in hospitals cope with their surrounding environment,” said Allison Balcof, a senior and secretary of tri-Sigma. “In all honestly, I cannot say there is anything negative to me personally about being in Tri-Sigma. My sisters have provided me with a great amount of confidence in a time in my life when I needed that most, and I have made bonds which are unlike any other
see GREEK on page 6
Students Select New SGA Officials
Page 2 The Ramapo News
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Newly Elected Members Look to the Future for 2010-2011 Term
By AMY FEZZA Staff Writer
SGA welcomes newly elected officials into office as another academic year comes to a close. Elections have been a long awaited process since the beginning of April that have required both preparation and determination from all candidates. “The essential role of SGA is to represent the student body and administration for the sake of improving the college,” newly elected Senator-at-Large Megan Anderle
school and to show them appreciation with free breakfasts and lunches,” Commuter Council Speaker Jeremy Dela Cruz said. The polls were open to the student body April 12 through April 15. Posters, a
“I’m glad that the 2009-2010 administration has handed us an excellent product. This was a year of great change made within the organization,” newly elected President Jason Krisza said. However, Krisza believes that there is
“I’m looking forward by doing my best to keep student concerns in mind,.”
“I am in the position to make the greatest amount of change at this school that will make life for the students better here at Ramapo in the future.” -Jason Krisza, newly elected SGA President
said. Many positions such as President and Vice President, Class Councils and numerous Senator and Senator-at-Large have been filled. Newcomers filled some positions, whereas veterans sought other positions. “I’m currently the Commuter Council Speaker and I had many goals to accomplish for this year that I didn’t get to accomplish such as consistent meetings. So I wanted another year to continue to help commuters become more involved on campus, create more transparency with the
own diverse ideas and goals, but overall, their main concern seems to be the students. “I’m ready to make my vote count within SGA as a senator. I’m looking forward by doing my best to keep student concerns in mind,” newly elected Senator-at-Large Maria Salluisto said. Also, veteran SGA members continue to move up the totem pole, striving to tackle new responsibilities in order to do everything they possibly can to help with
- Maria Salluisto, newly elected Senatorat-Large
photo courtesy of Ramapo.edu
The newly elected SGA officials were selected on April 15.
broadcasted debate and other forms of advertisements were disseminated all over campus. The debates were featured on RCTV for students to see who was running and what their intentions were. Now that the positions have been filled, many of the winners have high hopes and goals for Ramapo’s future and have already started devising plans as to what they wish to accomplish while in office. Jason Krisza, the newly elected President of SGA, feels that it is an honor to be Tom Ng’s successor, but believes that there are still changes to be made.
still a lot to do within the community, saying that representation for the average student was “lackluster” this past term and that it is still in need of improvement. One particular area that needs attention, according to Krisza, is Residence Life. “Residence Life is a big issue. Mitchell Gorbunoff [Vice President] and I plan on talking to them about reeevaluation the bracketing system,” Krisza said. “Too often I have heard of students expressing their horror stories during such a stressful time such as this.” Many of the positions in SGA have their
change. “I was a member of Freshman Caucus and Sophomore Class Council but I did not have an actual position on SGA. I am hoping that we do more as a council than we have in past years. I would like us to plan more events for the Junior class,” Samantha Pezzimenti of class council said. Overall, each elected member will be working together in order to make history at Ramapo. Together with their ideas and concerns, they are hoping to make the community proud with their contributions. “I feel like the most rewarding thing I will get out of being SGA President, is knowing that I am in the position to make the greatest amount of change at this school that will make life for the students better here at Ramapo in the future,” Krisza said.
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ARCH
AROU N D THE
Students Receive Crash Course on Dining Etiquette
By DIANA S TANCZAK Staff Writer
Linda J. Williams, a certified etiquette expert, answered questions ranging from “Which fork is mine?” to “Can we start eating yet?” when she visited Ramapo for a lively discussion on dining etiquette. Students gathered for a four-course dinner, which lasted for an hour and a half in the alumni lounges and covered all of the do’s and don’ts of dining. The evening began as all of the guests, dressed in semi-formal business wear, filtered into the lounges. The tables were covered with light pink tablecloths, each with its own vase of tulips as the centerpiece. Champagne flutes filled with sparkling cider made the dinner feel formal and authentic. To begin, Williams explained the importance of etiquette for young adults who are about to embark on a career. She then informed the guests of the purpose behind a business meal. “It’s either ‘What do they want?’ or ‘What’s in it for me?’” Williams said. “You do not go to dinner to eat, you go for information.” Williams demonstrated the proper way to sit down at a table.
“You always enter and exit from the right side of your chair. This way, you avoid awkwardly bumping into the person next to you,” she said.
fold of the napkin should always be facing your waist once you place it on your lap,” she said. Next, Williams covered the 3 B’s of toast-
photo by Diana Stanczak
The Cahill Center hosted a dinner for students who wanted to learn proper dinnertime manners.
After everyone was settled, Williams talked about napkins. “There are a multitude of ways you may see a napkin when you sit down. However, the
ing: “Begin, be brief, be seated.” Williams explained that toasts are usually made at the beginning of the meal as a way to welcome guests or at the end of the meal,
Thursday, April 22, 2010
before dessert, for a guest of honor. “Remember, never drink to yourself,” she said. After toasting to Debra Stark, the coordinator of the entire dinner, Williams moved on to the most common concern about dining etiquette: the silverware. “Begin with the utensils furthest from your plate and work inwards for each course,” she said. Williams also reminded everyone that the bread and butter plate is to the left of the place setting and liquids are to the right. As the guests ate their salad, Williams spoke about dinner conversation. “Getting people to talk about themselves is beneficial for you,” she said. She also suggested that dinner guests should talk about something neutral, such as sports or books. After the salad plates were cleared, the second course, French onion soup, was brought out. Williams offered a rhyme for soup etiquette: “As my ship goes out to see, I spoon my soup away from me.” When the main course: chicken, potatoes and string beans arrived, Williams explained
Come Dance for a Miracle at Dance Marathon
see DINING page 6
Ramapo Hosts First Ever Dance Marathon for Children’s Miracle Network
By MICHELE MCKENNA Staff Writer
Dance Marathon, an event that will raise money for the Children’s Miracle Network, will take place for the first time ever on Friday evening at Ramapo College. Students will shimmy the night away for a special cause: the Children’s Specialized Hospital. Members of Phi Delta Epsilon Medical Fraternity along with Zeta Beta Tau will be hosting the event.
“It’s great to see how many people we got together as well as the support from our sponsors and everyone on campus.” -Kri sten Crespo, vi ce presi dent of Phi Del ta Epsi l on
“It gives me another way to help these children and remind them that they are not just sick kids. It feels great to lift their spirits,” Kristen Crespo, vice president of Phi Delta Epsilon, said.
The idea to try an all night dance marathon stemmed the success of Relay for Life at Ramapo. Chapters of Phi Delta Epsilon at colleges and universities across the nation have participated in the event. “We started talking about the idea last year when we heard other chapters were doing it,” Crespo said. “When we found out Zeta Beta Tau was interested too, we thought it would be a great idea to do it together.” These two frats are pairing up to give back to the Children’s Miracle Network in a big way. “We liked the idea of dancing all night to raise the money. It is just a nice way to show our appreciation,” Crespo said. According to the event’s Facebook page, the Children’s Miracle Network says that the fundraiser is a way for students to “honor children who have been through so much. [Participants will] ‘dance’ for those who can’t. They do it for the kids!’” Their goal was to raise $10,000 So far, Dance Marathon has raised over $7,500 and counting. Students who have raised the most include: Samuel Centino, D’Auja Nelson, Narges Sarrafan, Kristina Hayes and Brad Rosen, who have each raised up to $900 on their own.
photo courtesy of Facebook
Dance Marathon is being organized by Phi Delta Epsilon and Zeta Beta Tau.
“Children’s Miracle Network is the group we do most of our fundraising for and this is mostly the reason I joined Phi Delta Epsilon,” Michelle Ayvas, a membership chair of Phi Delta Epsilon, said. The night chock full of events, like hulahoop contests, guitar hero competitions,
tug-of-war and a giant twister challenge. There is also one special part of the night for participants. “Some members of the hospital and their families will be there and two people will be sharing their stories during the night,” Ayvas said. “It will be so rewarding actually meeting the kids we have been helping out.” According to the event’s Facebook page, 300 people are planning to attend Dance Marathon and over 100 have already signed up. Sponsors like Moe’s Southwest Grill, Starbucks, Panda Express and Mr. Cupcake will be at the all-nighter, serving snacks to guests. “I think the money we raised and the number of participants we have is amazing for the first time ever doing this,” Crespo said. “It’s great to see how many people we got together as well as the support from our sponsors and everyone on campus.” Prizes range from t-shirts and Nintendo Wiis to tickets to Six Flags and tickets to a Tiki Rocks the Square concert. Dance Marathon will take place from 6:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. in the Bradley Center’s Auxiliary Gym. Tickets will be sold online until Friday and students can also sign up at the door.
Page 4 The Ramapo News
Roving
Reporter
Thursday, April 22, 2010
“When Iʼm no longer with The Ramapo News...” Question by Erica Buchman
“...I donʼt know. And that feels great.” -Charlie LaPlaca
“...Iʼll spend 100 percent less time with Morgan Balog.” -Joey Lewandowski
“...Iʼll be able to pay more attention to running my Justin Bieber fan club.” -Morgan Balog
“...Iʼll still be disappointed by the Mets.” -Katie Sobko
“...Iʼm going to have my Wednesday nights back.” -Dan Rist
Always Greener: Give and Go to Gather Unused Supplies Third Annual Event Encourages Students to Donate Goods
By BRYAN KAMINSKY Staff Writer
Give and Go is a donation drive that allows students to donate unwanted items at the end of the semester. This event was successful for the past two years, so from May 4 to May 11, students can donate as they finish finals and start to pack up. “Give and Go is a donation drive designed to reduce waste while helping those in need. Students moving out of their rooms at the end of the school year often have clothes, books, housewares and electronics that they want to get rid of. 1STEP provides boxes at designated drop off points to collect these items as donations,” said Alex Sim, member of 1STEP.
“All usable items collected by 1STEP members are eventually put to use elsewhere. Give and Go is a donation event, but it is also about reducing material waste.” - Alex Sim
Some students may know about Give and Go but do not know where the collected items are donated. “Collected items are taken by 1STEP members to St. Andrew’s Church in Westwood, where they are sorted and organized by vol-
unteers and shipped by the truckload to locations such as Appalachia, Africa and locally,” Sim said. All books are shipped to Better World Books. This organization re-sells, donates or recycles the books depending on their condition and/or on their demand. This provides funding for literacy programs.
the end of spring semesters are often located closer to the apartments. Give and Go is a legitimate event and all materials are donated, and students can exchange items if they replace it with a donation. “All usable items collected by 1STEP members are eventually put to use else-
photo courtesy of Flickrʼs creative commons
Piles of unused stuff, like the one seen here, can be found around campus between May 4 and May 11. The items will be donated to worthy causes.
The donation locations are in lobbies of residence halls, or next to the residence hall office. In the CPAs, the designated drop-off point is in the Lodge, and the Village’s drop off point is in Thomases Commons. There may be some concern about how efficient these drop-off points are, since the large dumpsters placed in the parking lot at
where. Give and Go is a donation event, but it is also about reducing material waste,” Sim said. The purpose of the event is to help those who are less fortunate. Taking from the donation boxes without making a donation in return is taking from someone who may need the item more.
“It is important to keep in mind that donations are meant to help people in need, so students should only take things they know they will use, and should they take something, they are encouraged to make a donation in return,” Sim said. The recipients of the donations have been thankful for the donations from the past Give and Go events and appreciate what members of the Ramapo College community are doing. “The St. Andrew’s Church staff have seemed pleased by 1STEP and Ramapo's service spirit throughout the course of this event and have repeatedly expressed gratification for donations received, emphasizing the positive impacts it has in other people's lives,” Sim said. Give and Go helps prevent a lot of usable items from being thrown away in the trash and having them sit in landfills. One way to practice sustainability as the semester comes to an end is to donate any unwanted clothes, food, textbooks or other items that are usable instead of throwing them in the large dumpsters of the parking lots.
Green Fact of the Week:
Ninety-nine percent of items Americans buy arenʼt used six months after theyʼre bought.
Thinking of Studying Tau Delta Phi Preserves Rockland County Beauty Abroad? Do It! Page 5 The Ramapo News
By HUMA MUNIR Staff Writer
As the semester comes to an end, many Ramapo students studying abroad are reflecting on their experiences. Dorina Georgieva, a student in Russia, and Joseph Santangelo, a student in Italy, have considered the ups and downs of their trips. Georgieva is currently studying in St. Petersburg, Russia. Originally from Bulgaria, she is an international student at Ramapo. This is Georgieva’s third semester abroad. During her freshman year, she went to Bangalore, India, and during her sophomore year, she studied in Shanghai. “In St. Petersburg, I am studying at the oldest university in Russia and one of the oldest in Europe, called Saint Petersburg State University,” Georgieva said. Her major is international studies. Georgieva has been embracing all aspects of her trip. “Every experience that I have here teaches me about the people’s mentality and way of living,” Georgieva said. While she is enjoying her living conditions in Russia, she can’t help but miss dorm life at Ramapo. Georgieva said that the dorms at Ramapo are comfortable and organized. “[In foreign countries], students have to adjust to the local settings, which I think is one of the most important and exciting
Thursday, April 22, 2010
experiences while abroad,” Georgieva said. As a third-time study abroad student, Georgieva admits that she has faced culture shock when arriving in a new country. However, this has allowed her to see differences in a positive light between the people and their culture. “I think that one of the things that studying abroad teaches every student is how to look at the world from the eyes of people living in another country, coming from a different cultural background,” Georgieva said. Joseph Santangelo is studying at the American University of Rome. “This is my second semester studying abroad in Rome. I love it here,” he said. “I love Europe enough that I am actually transferring out of Ramapo to attend this school in Rome or Franklin College in the Italian speaking canton of Switzerland.” He lives five minutes away from downtown Rome. Santangelo said that he has not faced any culture shock while traveling to different countries. “The most interesting experience I had was my trip to Barcelona with great friends. My trip to Switzerland comes in a close second,” Santangelo said. Santangelo is also an international studies major. To take advantage of opportunities such as these, visit the Study Abroad Office in room ASB-123.
By HUMA MUNIR Staff Writer
Ramapo fraternity Tau Delta Phi participated in an event in Rockland County that helps keep the New York county clean and beautiful. Each Spring, Rockland County hosts a special cleaning event that focuses on longterm sustainability for the planet. For the first time ever, Tau Delta Phi showed their support. The event is coordinated by “Keep Rockland Beautiful” (KRB), and it runs from April 12 to mid-May.
photo courtesy of Brian Sebak
Tau Delta Phi shows their support for wilderness maintenance by keeping Rockland County pristine.
“KRB is a local nonprofit organization founded in 1997 that fosters beautification, cleanup and environmental awareness efforts, to help make Rockland County a great place to live,” said Brian Sebak, vice president of Tau Delta Phi. Sebak coordinated and organized the event. The fraternity picked up trash, such as bottles, cans, sneakers and old newspapers, scattered on the streets. “We were supplied with necessary garbage collecting tools [such as] garbage bags, grabbers, gloves,” Sebak said. Last year, the county had 300 volunteers who helped carry out the biggest restoration effort in the history of Rockland County. Events such as KRB encourage student participation for the sake of long-term green efforts. Tau Delta Phi’s efforts are just one example of how students can do great things for the community, as well as for the planet as a whole. “We take pride in the work we accomplish as a group and strive to instill it in others,” Sebak said. Tau Delta Phi has been involved in several philanthropies in the past, including Feeding America and the Rape Crisis Center. They have sponsored a wide range of events, from date auction fundraisers to car wash charities. “We strive to exercise leadership, teamwork, and brotherhood. Helping our local community is one of many services of which Tau Delta Phi takes pride,” Sebak said.
Clothing Swap Merges 1STEP, Fem. U. for a Good Cause By KRYS TA DANIELS Staff Writer
To spread feminist and sustainability awareness, Feminists United and 1STEP paired up for an eco-feminist event. The clothing swap allowed Ramapo students to exchange any and all types of clothing with one another. “In nature, everything is connected. Nothing is completely isolated,” said 1STEP member Vicky Blume. “We’re not all as different as we may like to believe. We are able to come together and literally give someone the shirt off of our back. It’s all about raising awareness.” Even students who didn’t bring anything to exchange had the opportunity to walk out with something new. “The clothing swap was a symbolic representation of eco-feminism, or the idea that an intersection exists between feminism and the environment,” Blume said. “As a club, 1STEP is always looking to expand awareness of environmental issues, yet the relevance to countless other social issues is sometimes overlooked.” President of Feminists United, Jill Grimaldi, agreed with Blume that the two organizations were suited to merge. As far as preparation went, the hardest part was finding a convenient time for both organizations.
“Not much preparation was needed besides getting the room request in organizing this event. We just needed to find one day that worked for everyone. Sunday night seemed
about commodities that produce waste. The event brought all types of people to swap and donate to a good cause. “I heard about this event on Facebook. I
photo by Krysta Daniels
Members of Feminists United and 1STEP teamed up for eco-sustainability.
like the best thing since people are just getting back,” Feminists United member Caitlin Kenny said. Katie Brangan, vice president of Feminists United, came up with the idea for the event while watching “The Story of Stuff,” a video
donated shirts, sweaters and pants. This was a great opportunity to clean out my closet. I got a dress and I am very happy with it,” freshman Sarah Gallo said. Feminists United Treasurer Robin Netanel likened the event to thrift shopping.
“This event is a good way to get rid of clothes and get new ones. I love thrift shops. It’s like the thrift shop came to us,” Netanel said. “I love shopping and I’m broke. I think it’s very cool that they’re going to donate to people who need them. It’s spring cleaning,” freshman Melissa Pepe said. The remaining clothing will be donated to a local Good Will. In addition to the clothing swap, students can donate their bras to the Women’s Center for the Donate a Bra Drive. Those who donate will be entered in a drawing for a prize package. All bras will be donated to The Bra Recyclers, a group that will clean and refurbish them for distribution to domestic violence and homeless shelters for women in need. “Thankfully, this event allowed us to promote sustainability by encouraging people to recycle their clothes. It provided a place for people to be social and bond over common interests while they shared their clothes,” Grimaldi said. “The two organizations came together for a good cause,” Blume said. “Nothing can be accomplished alone, and finding a group of passionate people willing to combine their passions? That’s when some magic can happen,” Blume added.
Dining Teaches Mannered Eating Page 6 The Ramapo News
continued from page 1
the difference between the continental and American styles of dining. “In continental, the knife stays in your hand, and you eat with your left hand. In American, you put the knife down and switch the fork over to your right hand,” she said. By the time dessert came, vanilla ice cream covered in a hard chocolate shell, the guests experienced a full explanation of the proper ways
in which to dine. “I learned how to eat properly. I will be following proper etiquette from now on, even though it’s tough to learn a lot of new things.” Senior Frank Brigida said. “I am going to make practicing proper etiquette an everyday thing to prepare for when I have business dinners for my career.” Williams ended the dinner by explaining with, “Etiquette is about treating people the way you want to be treated.”
Greeks Coalesce Once Again at Greek Week continued from page 1
in tri-Sigma. My sisters have provided me with a great amount of confidence in a time in my life when I needed that most, and I have made bonds which are unlike any other that I know will last a lifetime,” Zak said. “Greek Week is a lot of fun because I stopped playing sports in high school,” Kevin Parker, a sophomore in Crow, said. “Greek life has such a bad representation and it is sad,” Diana Depsee of tri-Sigma said. “What people say about sororities and fraternities is untrue, and they do not understand why we join the organization.” Some Greeks feel that there could
be improvements made. “In the future, I believe that Greek Week should encompass more events that would allow nonGreek participation. This will increase the Greek population as they would realize that being Greek is not that bad after all,” Rogers said. Joanna Kierce, president of Delta Phi Epsilon, explained what she feels Greek life is all about. “Greek life is a self-governed organization that works for philanthropy’s and numerous charities while creating lifelong bonds. These women are my best friends and together we have done a lot of notable things and will continue to do so.”
Buzz Brings Cancer to Light
Thursday, April 22, 2010
continued from page 1
zero gives the closest shaven cut, while 4 buzzes the least amount of hair. Even though some senior brothers were unable to shave their heads due to interviews with prospective employers, they were still willing to buzz as much as they could. “This is the first year since the fundraisers’ start that I haven’t used level 0. I have professional responsibilities I have to obtain for the next couple of weeks, so I can’t shave it all off, but I did go to level 1,” said senior and Kappa brother Tom Villa. Newly initiated brothers were also able to experience this philanthropy for the first time. “It’s awesome being apart of something like this. I was a little apprehensive because I’ve never shaved my
head. I believe I will look terrible, but it’s for a great cause,” Freshman Ralph DellaSala said. Freshman brother John Sandford feels that shaving his head was a “weird” sensation. “It felt like someone was pouring cold water on my head when they were buzzing it. Now that I’m bald, I feel very weird and naked. I was the first to go today so I felt very alone, but it’s great to raise money for a cause like this with your brothers,” Sandford said. For an event as successful as this, Kappa Sigma wastes no time in planning ahead for the next year. “It takes a full year to put this together. We just stay motivated and strive to make it better and more successful in the coming years. We want to make this event as big as possible, we just want everyone to get involved,” Shalikar said.
photo by Alex Ucci
Ken Rodenheiser shaved his head to raise awareness about lymphoma and luekemia.
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VIEWPOINTS
Up the Ante, Anti-Greek Life
Thursday, April 22, 2010
What Will Matter on the Morning I Wake Up After Graduation?
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 CORTNEY COLLINS Special to The Ramapo News
OK, I know what you’re thinking. “SHE DOESN’T EVEN GO HERE ANYMORE.” You’re right, I don’t. And thank God for that. If the Ramapo community is actually talking about this Anti-Greek Life fan page as much as they are freaking out about it via social media, I might actually punch someone in the face. Which would really mess up my life plan, because I’d end up in jail for assault. (You don’t think I punch like a girl, do you? I can totally mess someone up. EDITOR’S NOTE: I believe this.) I’d have some sort of record and would need to go to court, and quite frankly, my finals are just about to begin. I don’t have time for that. In fact, I have much more important things to worry about.
If you took the time you’re spending to defend your lifestyle against a few kids whose opinions never mattered to you before they were made public on Facebook, to do some good in the community, imagine what you could accomplish.
AND SO DO ALL OF YOU. Not that anyone would know it, based on the low blows you seem to be taking at each other roughly every 30 minutes via Facebook over Greek life. Let me say it again, a little louder this time: you’re fighting over GREEK LIFE. You kiddos are really going all out with these posts. This is the Alamo, and there is a Goddamned line being drawn in the sand; either you’re with Greek life or against. I don’t think the world has witnessed such chaos since the Second Congo War, the most recent (and one of the most devastating) civil wars that lasted five years and left well over five million dead. But wait a minute. I think the world HAS seen such upheaval and destruction. It happens every day in Sudan, in the midst of an on-going genocide. Or in Haiti, where the only third world nation in the Western hemisphere is still struggling to function at a fundamental level and accomplish the most basic of tasks, like providing potable water
for inhabitants or keeping track of the recently orphaned children so they don’t get snatched by God knows who. It happens in South Africa, where a woman is raped every 26 seconds and a nation still struggles to shake the bonds of apartheid. So clearly, given the state that the world is in today, it makes sense that such a horrific act as making an anti-Greek life Facebook fan page would garner so much attention and generate such intense feedback. And my, my, am I impressed with the level of passion displayed on this page. I always considered Ramapo a rather apathetic community, but you have proven me wrong once again. Imagine, though, if you took the fire you’re showing for a fan page and directed it at solving the world’s ills, only very few of which are listed above? Good for you, various sororities and fraternities, that you participate in community service and raise money for some good causes. I’d be much more impressed if you did said service without the school or your national organization forcing you. If you took the time you’re spending to defend your lifestyle against a few kids whose opinions never mattered to you before they were made public on Facebook, to do some good in the community, imagine what you could accomplish. If you took the energy you’re wasting personally attacking people (making yourselves look petty and ignorant) and applied that same fire to any human or animal rights issue, you’d be a force to be reckoned with. Consider all the things in the world you could be doing, all the people you could be helping. Now, think about how you’re sitting at your computer, taking five minutes to come up with a witty retort that ultimately ends up being, “You’re just bitter because you didn’t get a bid.” I’ll put myself out there: I have absolutely nothing against the Greek system. I would have loved being in a sorority, but I didn’t decide to go that route. To be honest though, at this point, looking at my screen and reading your comments, I am so glad I didn’t. You’re embarrassing yourselves by lowering yourselves to the level of people you probably don’t even know. Get some standards. While these fan page creators are poking fun at an entire system, you, Greek Life, are making personal, offensive remarks with the intention of hurting a single person. That’s disgusting. You’re all in college. You should know better. And fan page creators, just because I stuck up for you doesn’t mean you’re off the hook. What were you hoping to accomplish? This was all a joke? If you can mobilize this many people with a joke, think what you could do with a concerted effort. You could truly change something. Maybe instead of making fun of others’ chosen lives, you could work to improve the lives of those who were not fortunate to choose. But hey, what do I know? I don’t even go to Ramapo anymore. I’m just some girl who wants her normal news feed back.
For the past eight months I have addressed you as the SGA President in order try to raise awareness about campus issues. Today, I want to provide you with a few realizations and suggestions I have acquired as a graduating senior. As an underclassman, I received a lot of advice from graduating seniors. However, it was not until I was a senior that I fully underBy TOM NG stood what it all meant. With that SGA President said, I recommend that you try to remember every pieces of advice graduating seniors give you. I’ve heard it all. Don’t take life too seriously. Be sure to never take college for granted. Treasure every moment. Avoid Birch Burgers (which, for the record, I find delectable). I’ve understood the emotional depth of these messages the closer I’ve come to graduation. I can only suggest that you listen to what your graduating mentors have to say, take notes and save them for later. My best advice to maximize your time at college is to take advantage of as many opportunities at Ramapo as you can. Whether you join a new club, attend an event or keep your mind open to the variety of perspectives other students have to offer, you will be glad you did. As much as students like to complain about the daily challenges we encounter (see FML.com), it is important that we do not marginalize the opportunities we have to expand our perspectives, comfort zones and understanding of the world. In my opinion, THAT is the purpose of higher education. When you approach graduation, you can take solace in the fact that you have prepared yourself to survive in the “real world” because you did not let an opportunity pass you by. This can be a daunting task on a day-to-day basis. To make this easier, ask yourself, “Will this matter to me when I wake up on the morning after college?” A friend of mine said that to me before he took his last trip under the arch, and it really helped me to put everyday troubles into perspective. Today, this statement means even more. As I think about graduation, I am able to look back on my college years and evaluate how effectively I applied that piece of advice. I don’t remember the test grades, arguments or class projects that seemed overbearing at the time; it’s the random moments that make me smile. These include being caught in nor’easters while traveling with friends, getting into shouting matches over bad calls in Madden ’08 and long conversations about higher education funding with other students. While it is unlikely that you will remember the same things when you graduate (particularly that last part about funding), you WILL have fond memories and will be able to take them with you, regardless of where life takes you after college. College is often referred to as the most important years of your life. This statement is only true if you are willing to use your time to improve yourself as much as possible. Take advantage of opportunities, absorb as much as you can and treat every day like it is your last. Before you know it, it will be. I hope that when that time comes, you can look back on your time at Ramapo with as much fondness as I do. It was a pleasure writing for you all over the past year. Thanks for reading!
ARTS
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E N T E RTA I N M E N T
Meyer’s Music: American Idol Loses Andrew Garcia
Thursday, April 22, 2010
BY S HARON MEYER Staff Writer This is your last music update from me for the semester, which is sad, but luckily music is forever and you can find all this crap on your own! If you’re a big American Idol fan, then you know of the loss of Andrew Garcia. The American Idol contender who many thought had the competition “in the bag”, during auditions week with his own rendition of Paula Abduls ‘Straight Up’ was voted off Wednesday. When the show finally kicked off, Garcia struggled to stand out in the spotlight after each and every performance. Bad reviews from the judges continued week after week until the man sang his last song – well, at least on Idol. Garcia has it going on, in my opinion,
and you can see this songbird all over Youtube performing with a guy named AJ Rafael and many other famous Youtube singers. I expect to see much from him in the future. Maybe Billboard can feature a quality artist like Garcia instead of the crap they have been posting under Mashup Mondays. On Billboard.com, Mashup Mondays features artists from one genre covering another artist’s song from a completely opposite genre. Kevin Rudolph, a Cash Money Records artist, had the hit ‘Let it Rock’ featuring Lil Wayne. Lil Wayne may have been the only reason this “hip hop” artist had a hit. Rudolph decided to cover Lifehouse’s new hit “Halfway Gone.” Ok, I am hooked, I’d like to hear his rendition of this rock song; maybe Rudolph can save this feature on
photo courtesy of Google
Andrew Garcia slowly faded into becoming one of the “boring” contestants on the show.
Billboard.com and cover this song and cover it well! Play is pressed and the screen opens up to Rudolph in a room like the other artist from past weeks with just a guitar and a mic. He breaks right into it and from the start the vocals are pitch and it just sounds like cats screaming at each other. Why is Billboard featuring these crap artists who are obviously just product sellers and not true talent? Lifehouse’s songs are not that complicated and do not have too much range so I expected much more than what was given. Speaking of Lifehouse, have you caught the newest video for their hit “Halfway Gone”? If you have not, I’d be glad to fill you in on the most unoriginal piece of film ever recorded. Whether it was label influenced or Lifehouse’s own choice, the world may never know, but for those who have seen the video, hopefully you can see where this is coming from. To sum it up, at the end of the video it should say “brought to you by Honda and the all American Rejects.” From beginning to end the video features two things cars and people, oh yes, and the band of course. The video effects are ripped right from All American Rejects video for “Move along,” and incorporated into that effect is brand spanking new cars featured throughout the video. I found a review of it on a google search. Just type into google: Backup Dancers From Hell: Lifehouse - “Halfway Gone” and the blogger puts into words exactly how ridiculous this video is. At the bottom there is a link so you can watch this train wreck for yourself. You Decide! Last week you were introduced or reintroduced to B.o.B. The Atlanta rapper who is bringing his game full on and making waves in the music industry by collaborating the most unpredictable artists yet.
photo courtesy of Google
Anything could be in Rudolfʼs future.
His song “Airplanes’” featuring Hayley Williams of Paramore is blowing up on TV and news sites everywhere. Well remember that “Airplanes” has a reprise on B.o.B’s album called “Airplanes II” featuring Hayley and Eminem. Stated in an interview on MTV.com, B.o.B said that he wanted this song to come from him, since his album is beginning to leak (faster than expected) and he wanted to make sure this song was release by him since he worked on it with one of his heroes, Eminem. You can check out the song on his official website, but you must become a member in order to here the song. All it takes is an e-mail adress and a password. It’s pretty simple and definitely worth it. Sadly, this column has reached its expiration date and this is the last of my music updates. Thanks for reading!
In Case You Missed Mike Judge’s “Extract” in Theaters... By MORGAN BALOG Staff Writer
This weekend I got a chance to see the film, “Extract,” directed by Mike Judge, the genius behind the classic “Office Space.” This film was a limited release in 2009 and I ordered it on demand through cable. My friend recommended it and I found myself pleasantly surprised with its
The poor guy is just trying to get laid and enjoy his fruitful/successful life and he is just slowly becoming more and more depressed. cleverness, wit and sarcasm. And Mila Kunis was in it so that is an obvious bonus. If you were a fan of the show “Arrested Development” and its star Jason Bateman, this movie is totally worth renting
(or downloading). The film is about a man (Bateman) who opens up his own extract company and has become quite successful. But Bateman’s character is suffering from sexual frustration, due to his wife (Kristen Wiig) closing up “shop” every night before he gets home. The poor guy is just trying to get laid and enjoy his fruitful/successful life and he is just slowly becoming more and more depressed. This makes him quite relatable and empathetic. He is tormented by his overly obnoxious neighbor, Nathan (David Koechner), he keeps receiving and taking bad advice from his morally questionable and pill-popping best friend (Ben Affleck), and while trying to sell his company and retire early, his employees are not making things easier. Bateman quickly loses control of his life, his relationship with his wife and employees, and slowly becomes entranced by the dangerous serpent, Cindy (Mila Kunis).
Being a big fan of Kunis myself, I was surprised at how hate-able Judge made her character in this movie. She slowly blossomed into this manipulative succubus who just lured everyone in until she got what she wanted. This was surprising and unexpected for me and it was good to see Kunis in a different type of role. The rock star legend, Gene Simmons, even makes a hilarious cameo in this film. After seeing his performance as the personal injury lawyer in the movie, I was horrified to realize that he could have been a very terrifying and manical lawyer if it wasn’t for his painted-face, bass playing and skills with his legendary tongue. I found myself laughing throughout the movie. It was full of fun and subtle humor that will keep the movie going for you and it never really gets boring. If you liked “Office Space” and the sarcastic and witty humor that was encompassed in it, “Extract” is definitely a must-see for you.
Death is at The Theater... and it’s a Good Thing Page 9 The Ramapo News
Thursday, April 22, 2010
BY MATT THOMPS ON Staff Writer
In most cases, remakes aren’t successful. They usually don’t bring the same flair as the originals, leaving many wishing that the story had never been duplicated. So how would a remake of a film released less than three years ago work out? Surprisingly well, actually. “Death at a Funeral” brought the same sense of urgency that the original film had. Going out on a limb, I think it may have even brought more to the table than the 2007 version of the same name. This black screwball comedy went almost scene-for-scene with the original, substituting a mostly British cast with a mostly African-American one. Above all else, the film brought a chaotic nature, making it all the funnier. The film centers around a funeral for brothers Aaron (Chris Rock) and Ryan’s (Martin Lawrence) father. Aaron is shown having strong jealously for Ryan, as Ryan is a flourishing writer. He has recently released a novel, which Aaron aspires to do. Aaron is also peeved at the fact that Ryan is more interested in getting first-class tickets on a flight rather than helping him pay for the funeral. Elaine (Zoe Saldana) is introduced with her fiancé, Oscar (James Marsden). Oscar is nervous about the occasion and Elaine gives him what she thinks is Valium, which causes a running gag throughout the film. The Valium was actually a hallucinogenic, which causes Oscar to act out in weird ways. Perhaps the funniest storyline of the movie deals with the little person Frank (Peter Dinklage). Frank makes an attempt to blackmail the brothers by informing them he was having an affair with their father before his death. He backs up his claims with pictures, which puts the brothers in a painful situation where they get an ultimatum of paying $30,000 if they don’t want Frank to tell their mom. Dinklage reprised
his role from the original film, and I think he was even better in this one; maybe it was the experience of doing the same role twice. The crowd was packed for this movie and it was easy to see why. It was opening night and I didn’t see one seat that wasn’t filled. The audience was constantly laughing in unison and rarely was there ever a moment of long standing silence. It made them laugh so much that at the end of the film some of the audience members even gave it a standing ovation. Yes, a standing ovation. This brings me to the MVP of the film, James Marsden.
The audience clearly liked him the best out of all the characters. His facial expressions throughout the film are priceless and he creates a genuine sense of humor, making the audience laugh. For someone as straight edge as Marsden, he was able to learn how people act while being high and brought it out in full force during the film. He truly brings his comedic performance to another level. Marsden has proven to be able to take on a variety of roles, bouncing around from horror, dramas, comedies, love films and superhero movies. Even if you didn’t enjoy the film, he’s truly the one bright spot that makes the movie that much better. The film did decent in the box office in its opening weekend, bringing in $16.2 million. Produced for a budget of $21 million, it has a long way to go in being a cash cow. With good reviews and positive feedback, it might be able to put up a few more good weekends. In comparison to other films like this, Tyler Perry’s films have done better. But we are not talking about Tyler Perry. Martin Lawrence’s “Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins” had an identical opening weekend in 2008 with $16.2 million. The original version of “Death at a Funeral” made $46 million worldwide in its theatrical run in 2007. I’ll give this film a B+. It was funny, endearing and possibly better than the original. Bring a $20 dollar bill. Bring a friend and buy your ticket. Then get some popcorn and a large sized coke. Make your way to the theater and get ready for 90 minutes worth of laughs. It’s worth your $12.
OVERALL GRADE B+
Date Night is a Crazy Night Out for Filmgoers
Page 10 The Ramapo News
By MATT THOMPSON Staff Writer
“Date Night” was a witty comedy, accomplishing its goal of bringing a fresh idea to the table with an ideal comedic duo. The movie was good, but it was not one of the funnier movies I’ve ever seen. It had a feasible amount of humor and the actors played their roles well, but it didn’t stand out like past celebrated comedies managed to do. Going on a Sunday afternoon, I wasn’t able to gauge the level of intrigue by the audience, as the theater was far from full. However, there was a keen sense of amusement and excitement from the
Thursday, April 22, 2010
small crowd as the movie started. In the ever-changing world that is Hollywood, there probably are very few comedians that are as compatible onscreen as Steve Carell and Tina Fey were. In “Date Night,” they play a suburban couple from northern New Jersey. The Fosters are happy, but bored. Phil (Carell) is a tax advisor, while Claire (Fey) is a realtor. Claire is fed up with her daily routine of tending to her children and workings while Phil just seems to be going through the daily motions. Their ritual is having a weekly “date night” where they order the same food in the same restaurant, and always see a movie afterwards. This has clearly grown tiresome to them.
The movie was fortunate enough to have many bigtime movie stars take smaller- than-usual roles
Through the divorce of two of their best friends, they realize it’s time for a night out on the town. They travel to New York City, hoping for a pleasant dinner. When they arrive at the upbeat restaurant “Claw,” they realize they won’t be able to get a table as you have to book the place a month in advance to dine there. When debating whether to leave at the bar, Phil makes the bold decision to take the seemingly absent “Tripplehorns”
reservation. From there, all hell breaks loose as they are mistaken for petty criminals. The one part of the film that I find to be particularly interesting is the writer’s inclusion of Claire and Phil’s “thing” for observing other couples while at dinner. They constantly ask each other “what’s their story,” making up a tale of who they think the random couples are. One particular couple plays a role in which ends up coming full circle at the end of the film. Carell is always a sure choice for a lead comedy role ever since starring in the 2005 comedy “40 Year Old Virgin.” He was funny in his role of Phil, but he’s made me laugh more in the past. This might not be his fault, as that might fall in the director’s hands. When compared to other Carell comedies such as “Virgin,” “Evan Almighty” and “Get Smart,” the movie hasn’t come close in gross revenue. It was a decent movie, but not up to par with other Carell films. Personally, I’d like to see him team up with Judd Apatow once again. This was Fey’s sophomore debut in regard to lead roles, as she previously took on “Baby Mama” in 2008. The movie was fortunate enough to have many big-time movie stars take smaller-than-usual roles, such as Mark Wahlberg, James Franco, Will.i.am and Mila Kunis. Wahlberg was excellent in his role as Holbrooke Grant. You got the sense that
he was a free-living, macho guy. His nonchalant attitude shined throughout the film and this has been far from the roles Wahlberg has played as of late. My favorite moment of the film involved an Audi R8, nonetheless. Carell and Fey were on the run in the supercar and impossibly got connected to a taxi through a car crash. This created a hilarious string of events that led to total destruction. This was a must see scene. Box office wise, the movie has been a marginal success. On a $55 million dollar budget, the movie has generated $66 million worldwide with opening weekends of $25 and $16 million. It’s hard to gauge how well comedies will do in the box office as it largely revolves around world of mouth. Let’s give the movie a solid B. If you want to kick back and get a few laughs, go see it. Otherwise, keep your $12 dollars and use it on something wiser.
OVERALL GRADE B
Freelance Whales’ New Album Creates Refreshing Sounds By TARA LAFEMINA Staff Writer
Freelance Whales have dropped a new album, “Weathervanes,” which pushes a new musical boundary. “Weathervanes” is filled with catchy tunes, interesting lyrics and a really fun vibe. In many ways, they deeply resemble The Postal Service. Freelance Whales may just pick up the trend The Postal Service started in the “indie” scene a few years ago. Freelance Whales is similar to radio-hit bands like Owl City, but Freelance Whales has by far proved to be better. Freelance Whales has created a debut album that tales a folksy-sounding base. They then add on a few layers of electronics to make it have a bit of a pop feel. Occasionally they go back to the folksy roots and add in banjos. Freelance Whales have created their own sound-it is a rarity, and it works. The banjo is not the only oddity Freelance Whales has incorporated into their music. They use unusual, rarely used instruments such as a glockenspiel, waterphone, and harmonium. Their unusual, playful mix of instruments is what sets Freelance Whales apart from other bands. A breakthrough song from “Weathervanes” is “Generator ^ Second Floor.” A banjo seamlessly blends into a repetitive, yet catchy, melody. Topped off with lyrics that are easy to listen to, the story follows the adventurous story into death, and to have no one waste sadness on such a day. The lyrics are minimal, but they paint a picture to the song, such as “so as you pull me from the bed, tell me I look stunning and cadaverous.”
“Hannah” is another catchy, poppy tune. Just as many of their other songs do, Freelance Whales takes you through a journey. You could easily picture yourself on New York City rooftops looking at the night sky. “Hannah” is just the type of song that makes you wonder why this band is not more recognized. It is a perfect blend of musical elements that are friendly to most any music fan. Freelance Whales have a mature sound. They get you wrapped up into the music that is sincere. Even when singing lyrics like “please don’t play the match maker, please don’t be a player hater,” the singer still sounds sincere. “Ghosting” will bring you back to your childhood mem-
ories. “Do you ever play with kids in the basement. Soot upon your face so you were a hot mess. All your little molars cracked in the pressure. Come here little sister, let’s get you to bed,” once again sets up a visual for the song. It also has a melody a reminiscent feel to it. The relaxing nature makes you connect with the song, to make you feel what the band is trying to portray. “Starring” is a light, poppy song but has a meaning that contradicts it. Lyrics that could be interrupted darkly such as “shut me up with your long tube socks” and “Don’t let the bath water get too high. You will be a flood of porcelain. The lines clawed on the inside. It’s digging hard into your tiles.” With repeated verses of, “this is me starring in someone else’s nightmare,” makes you appreciate the contradictory of the song. One problem with the album, “Weathervanes,” is it tends to drag on. Some songs could be cut down; putting the same melody and lyrics on repeat for two minutes starts to make the song bland. Plus, some lyrics come out sounding a bit corny. Take, for example, the song, “we could be friends.” It is a beautiful song, but the lyrics are less then desirable. “Please don’t put your face into your hands we could be friends,” it is not necessary, and gets very annoying, when repeating this sentence several times. Overall, this is a new band to be on the watch for. Freelance Whales are refreshing and are on the wave of being the next big thing. Formed in 2008; this relatively young band has become surprisingly good and popular in a short period of time. Freelance Whales has only good things coming their way.
There’s Nothing Imperfect About the Imperfectionists
Page 11 The Ramapo News
Thursday, April 22, 2010
By TARA LAFEMINA Staff Writer
“The Imperfectionists” is a one of a kind tale written by debut novelist Tom Rachman. Rachman tells of the rise and slow decline of an English-language international newspaper based in Rome. Rachman has a timely novel about the decline of a world with printed newspapers and the rise of technology. “The Imperfectionists” brings the reader into the newsroom filled with trials and triumphs. It is about the demise of a newspaper, which is unsurprising considering they do not have a Website. Of course, it is very much the characters that complete this book. The characters sum up the title of the book, they are odd, damaged and deranged. They are each so caught up in their own lives that they do not realize the steady decline of readership. First, there is Herman. Herman is the corrections editor who has created a 18,000 entry ‘Bible.’ The ‘Bible,’ is his prized stylebook for the newspaper, which he continuosly works on. He wants to protect the English language from the increasingly common occurrence of language butchering, all while not being able to see his own personal life for what it is. Oliver is the publisher, who is not the least bit interested in his newspaper. He may have a detachment from his newspaper, but is forever obsessed with his dog. Arthur, the obituary editor, is struck with a tragedy in his personal life, and will do anything to avoid work. Lloyd represents the old men in the journalism business with a downhill career. He is the Paris correspondent who uses sources that may or may not be reliable. He is running out of ideas and needs to figure out a way to continue in the cutthroat journalism world. There is a rivalry between the new Cairo correspondent, Winston, and veteran Snyder. Snyder is constantly abusing and using Winston, all out of protest to civilized behavior.
There is also a focus on readers, such as Ornella, who is a few years behind on her reading. The 11 characters, whose lives merge with the decline of the newspaper, propel the story forward. It is a fun filled ride watching them make new discoveries about themselves, families and others surrounding them. Part of the charm of the characters is how relatable they are. They are not over the top characters. They are normal people who are underpaid, dislike their job and are overly stressed. The story has a backdrop of all the happenings in the
world. Issues such as the war, an unpredictable economy and a consent threat of terrorism are not the headlining news for these reporters. Their personal lives and families trump all that is going on in the world. A unique aspect of this book is the way each chapter could stand as a short story. Each chapter focuses on a sole employee at the newspaper. Rachman is able to write in a way that does not leave you just stasified with that one chapter though. He makes you want to continue reading and enjoy every moment, whether that be joy, sorrow, love or revenge. The draw back to this writing style is you may find you want to spend more time with each character. Once the spotlight turns to another characer, the previous one seems to fade away. Rachman only spends a handful of pages on each person before they take to backstage. This could leave you feeling frustrated while reading the book. Most likely though, you will find it refreshing. The stories never feel unfinished and anticipation grows with each one. It is not surprising that Rachman could write such a well received debut novel. He is an expert of the newsroom. According to his website, Rachman was a foreign correspondent for the Associated Press and a former editor for the International Harold Tribune. This is a highly recommended book, even if at times it feels like a handful of short stories. It is rare a writer can make a reader feel a bond with a character they only read 20 pages about.
OVERALL GRADE: A
Blockbusters (and Indies) to Check out in Summer ʻ10 APRIL
30th: A Nightmare on Elm Street 30th: The Human Centipede
MAY
7th: Iron Man 2 7th: Babies 14th: Robin Hood 21st: Shrek Forever After 21st: MacGruber 28th: Prince of Persia 28th: Sex and the City 2
JUNE
4th: Get Him to the Greek 11th: The Karate Kid 18th: Toy Story 3 18th: Jonah Hex 30th: Twilight: Eclipse
JULY
2nd: The Last Airbender 9th: Predators 9th: Despicable Me 16th: Inception 23rd: Salt 30th: Get Low
AUGUST
6th: Step Up 3-D 13th: Eat Pray Love 13th: Scott Pilgrim vs. the World 13th: The Expendables 27th: Piranha 3-D
SEPTEMBER
3rd: Machete 10th: Resident Evil: Afterlife 24th: Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps
Page 12 The Ramapo News
Thanks for a great semester!
See you in the fall. Have a safe and happy summer.
Love, The Ramapo News
Thursday, April 22, 2010
RAMAPO SPORTS
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Track Settles for Nothing Less than a Successful Spring By MICHELE McKENNA S taff Writer
The track and field team hosted the Metropolitan Championships last Saturday for the first time. They faced some great competition including Division I squads like Fordham and NYU, and truly stepped up to the challenge. “I feel like we have the best overall talent in the conference and have the leaders and coaches to be able to put it all together at NJACs,” freshman Dillon Rodgers said. Rodgers has been a stand out all season starting at the Rowan Open where he reached a NCAA provisional marking, setting a school record with a mark of 58.36. He also grabbed first place in the javelin at the Metropolitan Championships. The team was pleased with how they performed on Saturday. “I think we all showed we can compete with some Division I schools,” freshman Michelle Favre said. The women’s team has also been making their mark. Sophomore Maura Burke won the Heptathlon with 3,863 points at the CTC Championships in Center Valley, Penn. Burke was followed closely by her rookie teammates Teresa Kirkpatrick and Desiree Reese who took second and third in the event, respectively. “This season has been going well. We have already accomplished a lot and we are just beginning the most important
part of the season,” freshman Teresa Kirkpatrick said. This year’s team has seen a lot of exciting success like taking first place in the First Ramapo Collegiate Invitational, several broken school records and many athletes qualifying for the ECAC Championships.
“We have already accomplished a lot and we are just beginning the most important part of the season.” - Teresa Ki rkpatri ck, freshman
“A lot of teammates have been stepping it up this season, being recognized and staying in the competitor’s minds,” Kirckpatrick said. On the women’s side, ECAC qualifiers include sophomores Alexandra Jacob in the 400-meter and Cailtin Jaremcak in the high jump. Record breakers so far are sophomore April Kaiser in the hammer throw and Favre in pole vaulting. “My goal for myself is to qualify for nationals again like indoors and help the team score points at our conference meet as well as every other meet,” Favre said. The men’s team ECAC qualifiers include senior Kyle Price
in the 5,000-meter race and freshman Valdir Mondesir in the high jump. “I expect that our team will continue to improve and be ready to win the conference title on May 8th at TCNJ. Personally, I just want to continue to get better and represent my school well at any future meet I compete in,” Rodgers said. As the roadrunners look back on their success earlier in the year, they are now expecting nothing less. Favre, though only a freshman has miles of experience already under her belt including Nationals. “It was an exciting experience competing in the Nationals. Competing against the best athletes in the nation for Division III schools was overwhelming, but I hope to see myself there again. My expectation for the rest of the season is to qualify for Nationals again,” Favre said. Coming up this week, the team heads to Philadelphia for the Penn Relays. “This is a really prestigious meet that competes with all divisions and we will send a couple of individuals and a lot of relays. This is a great chance to show what we have,” sophomore Maura Burke said. “There is a lot of talent on this team and we can really finish this season on a high note,” Kirkpatrick said.
Many Teams Have Second Round in Their Sights By KEVIN JOHNS ON Staff Writer
Now that each team has played their 82 regular season games, the NHL playoffs are finally ready to begin. The Philadelphia Flyers and New Jersey Devils bring local representation to the playoffs. The two teams have been pitted against each other in the first round, and only one will advance. The teams exchanged victories in the first two games of the series in New Jersey. In game three the series moved to Philadelphia, and the Flyers took the momentum home with them. Flyers left winger Daniel Carcillo scored his first goal of the playoffs in overtime of game three on a wrap around, capturing the series lead 2-1. They carried their momentum into game four with a convincing 4-1 win. With the series in firm control, the Flyers take their 3-1 lead to New Jersey for game five Thursday night. The defending Stanley Cup Champion Pittsburgh Penguins face off with the Ottawa Senators in their first round match-up. Ottawa shocked the Penguins and their fans in the first game in Pittsburgh with a 5-4 victory. The Penguins regained their poise under the leadership of Sidney Crosby and seized the next three games of the series. With one more win needed to advance, the Penguins bring the series back home for game five. American hero Ryan Miller led his Buffalo Sabres into their series with the Boston Bruins. Millers goaltending sealed the first game of the series for Buffalo, but Boston would come back to win the next two games. Boston takes a 2-1 advantage in the series into game four in Boston. The final match-up of the Eastern Conference playoffs is between the Washington Capitals, the best regular season team, and the Montreal Canadians. The Canadians also jumped out to a surprising 1-0 lead in the series with a 3-
2 overtime win. The Capitals re-gathered and took the next two games, giving them a 2-1 advantage going into game four. In the Western Conference, the playoffs are just as suspenseful as the East. The first seeded San Jose Sharks entered the playoffs with a first round match-up against the Colorado Avalanche. This is the second year the Sharks have secured the num-
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Eineker hopes to lead the Roadrunners to an NJAC bid.
ber one seed, and hope to change their fortunes after a first round upset and exit last year. In their way is the Avalanches’ surprise dominance from Goalie Craig Anderson. With the series tied at 1-1, game three went into overtime tied 0-0. The Sharks seemed destined to repeat their doom when defenseman Dan Boyle literally shot and scored on his own net, giving the Avalanche a 2-1 series lead. The Sharks took the fourth game of the series, and look to reverse their recent bad luck in game five. The Los Angeles Kings are facing off with the Vancouver Canucks in their first round match-up. This is the Kings first playoff appearance since 2002, and they hope to make hockey relevant again in LA. The Kings hold a 2-1 series lead over the Canucks, and look to add to their lead in game four at home. The Chicago Blackhawks are stacked with young talent, and many feel they are the favorite to win the Stanley Cup. In their way is the Nashville Predators, who want to advance beyond the first round for the first time in franchise history. The Predators have shown their merit in the first three games, capturing a 2-1 series lead. With game four to be played in Nashville, both teams must show a sense of urgency to advance. The final two teams in the Western Conference are the Phoenix Coyotes and the Detroit Red Wings. Despite a tumultuous season filled with discussions of relocation and bankruptcy, the Coyotes managed to make the playoffs for the first time since 2002. The Red Wings however have not missed the playoffs since 1990, and have had vast success. The series is knotted at 2-2. Game five is set for Friday in Phoenix. The playoffs have been both entertaining and unpredictable. The first round will draw to an end this week as the teams continue their quest for the Stanley Cup.
Softball Team Maintains Perfect Home Record in Doubleheader
Page 14 The Ramapo News
By KEVIN JOHNS ON Staff Writer
The Roadrunners softball team maintained their perfect home record this season on Tuesday by defeating the Rutgers-Newark Scarlet Raiders 7-0 and 11-1 in their double header. The victories extended their winning streak to four games, expanded their perfect home record to 10-0, and raised their overall record to 20-12. The Roadrunners also moved up in the New Jersey Athletic Conference standings to a tie for second place with Rowan.
“With the talent that we have on this team I really believe we can win the rest of our conference games.” - Lauren Shaw, pitcher
After two scoreless innings for both teams, the Roadrunners opened the action with six runs in the third. The first two runs came off of sacrifice flies from freshman Ashley Schirripa and junior Stephanie Malgeri. Sophomore Danielle Rothenberger scored the next run by advancing home on a wild pitch. Junior Jaclyn Giangrande moved another run in by drawing a walk with the bases loaded. Katie Donnelly, the lone senior on the team, capped off the inning with a single to left field that drove in the two runs. The Roadrunners picked up their seventh and final run
Thursday, April 22, 2010
of the game in the fourth inning. Malgeri scored on a single to shortstop off the bat of Freshman Stephanie Jones. Junior Deanna Giordano had the Roadrunners defense on lock down all game as she pitched all seven innings of the game. Rutgers-Newark struck out seven times and only had four hits as Giordano kept them off the scoreboard. In the second game, the Roadrunners dominated offensively from start to finish. Ramapo jumped out to an early lead by scoring four runs in the first inning, and closed the game strongly with four runs in the seventh inning. Sophomore Tiffany Fischer led the offensive attack with two runs and a homerun. Freshman Janet Brown and Rothenberger also made major contributions as both drove in the two runs. Junior Lyndsay Buehler gave another strong pitching performance for the Roadrunners. Buehler pitched all seven innings, striking out ten batters while only surrendering one run. “We are much more pumped for home games,” sophomore Lauren Shaw said. Shaw is coming off an outstanding start against Hunter College where she threw a perfect game in front of the home crowd. “We have our fans, our music and our field. We don't have to sit on the bus and get tired. We walk down to the field ready and excited to play.” Manager Ben Allen agrees that the team plays better in front of a home crowd, “They get the rest they need, and get to sleep in their own beds. They get up for it more.” The Roadrunners have performed well all year, and have high hopes for the rest of the season.
“With the talent that we have on this team I really believe we can win the rest of our conference games,” Shaw said. “I definitely think we can take the NJAC
“We have so many young kids on this team and we have one senior, and you look like at a team that is like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. You don’t know what you’re going to get... I think we’ll be there when push comes to shove.” - Ben Allen, manager
Championship title, and move on to compete in the regionals.” Manager Ben Allen feels the team will be competitive in the conference, but knows how up and down a young team can be. “We have so many young kids on this team and we have one senior, and you look at a team that is like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. You don’t know what you’re going to get… I think we’ll be there when push comes to shove.” With the season winding down, Ramapo faces Albright College at home on Thursday and The College of New Jersey in Ewing on Saturday. The College of New Jersey sits atop the NJAC standings, so the winner on Saturday will take a stronghold on the conference.
Roethlisberger Suspended for the First Six Games of the Season By JEREMY KELLY Staff Writer
Fourteen months ago, NFL quarterback Ben Roethlisberger was on top of the world. His Pittsburgh Steelers were champions of Super Bowl XLIII, and he had thrown the gamewinning touchdown pass to Santonio Holmes in the final minute of the game. He had won two Super Bowl rings, and was being spoken of as one of the best quarterbacks of the decade. Now, however, it’s a wonder if his success on the field is what any football fan will remember him for. Despite escaping any legal trouble, Roethlisberger has been suspended by the NFL for the first six games of the 2010 NFL Regular Season, which could be reduced to four games depending on his behavior. He is also set to undergo a league-mandated “professional behavior evaluation” and “must adhere to any counseling or treatment that is recommended by the professional evaluators.” The ruling by the NFL comes a week after prosecutors decided not to charge Roethlisberger in a case involving a 20year-old female college student who accused him of sexually assaulting her in a nightclub in Milledgeville, Ga. last month. District Attorney Fred Bright stated that they are not pressing charges because he does not see enough evidence present to prove a case. Based on his public statement, he firmly believes that Roethlisberger is guilty. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell met with Roethlisberger recently, and later said to him in a letter, “Your conduct raises sufficient concerns that I believe effective intervention now is the best step for your personal and professional welfare.” To make matters worse for Roethlisberger, the Steelers have announced they would be willing to trade him, which
would make him their second one-time Super Bowl hero to be traded in the last few weeks, the first being Holmes, who was traded to the New York Jets on April 11 in the midst of a lawsuit of his own. For the moment, Pittsburgh has acquired quarterback Byron Leftwich from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in exchange for a seventh-round draft pick in this weekend’s NFL Draft.
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After leading the Steelers to two titles, Roethlisberger could be traded shortly.
Leftwich was Roethlisberger’s backup in the 2008 season. The Steelers’ other quarterbacks are veteran Charlie Batch and third-year man Dennis Dixon.
“Just two seasons after winning a NFL record sixth Super Bowl championship, they’re without an electrifying wide receiver, and now their tough, dependable quarterback is suspended, and may be headed towards the exit as well.”
It’s astounding how quickly the fortunes of a team can change. Just two seasons after winning a NFL record sixth Super Bowl championship, they’re without an electrifying wide receiver, and now their tough, dependable quarterback is suspended, and may be heading towards the exit as well. In light of his recent actions, I’d be willing to say it would serve him right. These actions are especially surpising considering it’s the Pittsburgh Steelers, a team who has never had to deal with such issues. While other teams might put their foot down if it means cutting ties with a top player, this organization has shown that there is a zero-tolerance policy for their team. Any other team would likely stay committed to a quarterback of Roethlisberger’s ability, but the Steelers are willing to trade him away for a top ten draft pick.
NBA: Where the Expected Usually Happens
Page 15 The Ramapo News
Thursday, April 22, 2010
By ANDREW GOULD Staff Writer
With the NBA postseason underway, fans were hoping to see nail biting finishes and a few improbable upsets. So far, they’re getting little to none of either. The higher seeds have dominated the first round so far, picking up the wins on their home court. In the Eastern Conference, LeBron James imposed his will on the Bulls to pick up a 2-0 lead for the Cleveland Cavaliers in the best of seven series. Although young point guard Derrick Rose has put forth a valiant effort, the Bulls have lost a touch on offense without the clutch shooting of Ben Gordon to give them a spark in the fourth quarter. Before winning Defensive Player of the Year, Dwight Howard blocked nine shots, leading the Orlando Magic to a 98-89 victory over the Charlotte Bobcats. Point guard Jameer Nelson, who was injured for most of Orlando’s playoff run last season, scored 32 points and passed out six assists. Without Andrew Bogut and Michael Redd, the Bucks are providing little competition for the Atlanta Hawks, who won each game by ten points. Joe Johnson, whose contract expires at the end of the season, followed up 22 points in game in game one with 27 points in game two. The series that garnered the most anticipation was the Boston Celtics vs. the Miami Heat. With Boston’s stars aging and Dwayne Wade playing in his prime, a series similar to last year’s thrilling seven game series between the Celtics and Bulls seemed possible. However, the Celtics have protected their home court by winning the first two games. An interesting moment came off the court, where Kevin Garnett elbowed Heat forward Quentin Richardson on Miami’s bench. Garnett was suspended for game two, which the Celtics won anyway by
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Dirk Nowitzki hopes to lead the Dallas Mavericks to their first title.
29 points. The Western Conference has shown more promise so far for some interesting basketball. The Los Angeles Lakers have started their title defense off on
the right foot, dampening Kevin Durant’s postseason debut and taking a 2-0 lead on the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Thunder pushed the Lakers to their limit in game two, but Kobe Bryant led the Lakers to a three-point victory, scoring 39 points. Although the San Antonio Spurs kept most of game one close, the Dallas Mavericks pulled away behind a dominant effort from Dirk Nowitzki, who scored 36 points and missed only two shots. With Tony Parker’s broken right hand healed, the Spurs appear to be a much tougher team than their seventh seed suggests. Not every series has been one sided though, as the Utah Jazz and Portland Trail Blazers were both able to steal a road victory despite being shorthanded. After Carmelo Anthony scored a postseason high 42 points in a game one victory for the Denver Nuggets, Utah fought back to win a tightly contested game two. Without center Mehmet Okur and Andrei Kirilenko, the Jazz snuck by Denver behind a strong outing from Deron Williams, who scored 33 points and dished out 14 assists in a 114-111 victory. Without star guard Brandon Roy, Portland still managed to upset the Phoenix Suns in the first game of the series behind inspiring performances from veterans Andre Miller and Marcus Camby. Miller, who usually fills the role of the passing point guard, took control of the offense, scoring 31 points in the 105100 win. Camby grabbed 17 rebounds and blocked three shots for the Blazers, who traded for Camby after losing Greg Oden and Joel Przybilla. They were not able to repeat their success in game two, as Steve Nash led the Suns to tie the series with 16 assists.
NFL Draft Time: Who’s on the Clock Now?
By JAKE EDINGER Staff Writer
In recent years, the NFL Draft has gained great notoriety among sports fans. This year the first round will be televised prime time on the 22nd at 7:30 p.m. followed by the second and third round on Friday at 7:30 p.m. as well. For the first time the draft will not be squeezed into two days with rounds 4 through 7 coming on at 10 a.m. on Saturday. After only winning one game last year, the St. Louis Rams hold the first pick and the fate of their franchise. One thing that is understood and constant in the NFL is that a team can only truly succeed with a good quarterback leading the offense. With this said, the Rams will pick Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford. Bradford not only has a very strong arm he is poised, mature and deadly accurate. It also helps that he is very mobile and quick. Many wonder and speculate just who the New York Giants will take with the number 15th pick overall. The Giants have two very striking needs, which are help at the corner position and another strong defensive pass rusher. If Florida’s versatile and quick corner Joe Hayden drops the Giants will definitely scoop him. He will provide the Gmen with instant help in the secondary. The Giants might also take South Florida’s Jason PierrePaul who is a strong Defensive lineman with long arms, which help him get to the quarterback easily. Due to last season’s success the Giants New York counterparts have the twenty-ninth pick overall. The Jets only true weakness last year was that they were slightly short handed at the defensive line position. Jared Odrick from Penn State can offer that help but I believe that all 354 pounds of Terrence Cody is a good fit for the J-E-TS Jets Jets Jets. This Alabama DT will help plug up the
holes and stop the run as well as make it easier for the linebackers and safeties to get easier sack opportunities. Another interesting question in this years draft is where the big QBs will be taken? I see Bradford going first overall and then Notre Dame Ready-to-starter Jimmy Clausen
getting picked by the Buffalo Bills with the ninth pick. The Bills desperately need a face to their franchise and Clausen will do just that and be successful however I think it will take a little time for him to adjust to the mental toughness in the NFL. I see the Browns taking Texas’ Colt McCoy early in the second round with the thirty-eighth pick. McCoy will be a versatile QB for the Browns and will bring a toughness to their team.
One thing that is understood and constant in the NFL is that a team can only truly succeed with a good quarterback leading the offense. Possibly the biggest question this Thursday will be who is going to take Florida’s hero Tim Tebow. I think this question should be reserved for the second day. I see the Minnesota Vikings taking Tebow late in the second round with the 62nd pick.
The Vikings can afford to let Tebow develop and he will learn the in and outs from Brett Favre who also has been questioned about his mechanics. The Vikings could also use Tebow in a slot receiver role or as an option tight end. This year’s NFL Draft will prove to be truly exciting and memorable for years to come. photo courtesy of Creative Commons
Many expect Oklahomaʼs former quarterback Sam Bradford to be the first pick.
RAMAPO SPORTS
TENNIS ANYONE? The Roadrunners finish their season with four home matches. They are currently 4-4 on the season.
photo by Stef Mauro