Slope Magazine Issue 6 :: Fall '09 by Slope Media Group

SLOPE MAGAZINE VOL. 4 ISSUE 2

Students for

Ken glover fight back

MARIO INTERVIEW Top Fashion Blogs

upcoming student music artists

ina to: T

Cho

pho

ENTERTAINMENT///FASHION///CULTURE///POLITICS

photo: Tina Chou

the editor's note :

As we publish each new issue, we grow as an organization. Fall semester is a time for new staff, brand spankin’ new content, and of course, better changes for the magazine. As of this semester, we now have online content, to be updated on our website theslopemagazine.com. And don’t ask why it’s “the” slope magazine, else I’ll go off on a terrific rant that will leave you wishing you hadn’t asked in the first place. I’m pretty happy with the content within this issue, due to its variety of different ideas from the staff members. From topics outside campus like Ted Kennedy’s death to what’s happening in the entertainment world, we can stay up to date with the rest of the world within our “Cornell Bubble.” From issues on campus like hidden talents of student music artists, our exclusive interview with Mario, to the forever ending controversial debate of program houses, we allow students to voice their opinions in a vivid, eye-catching, yet professional medium. As my term as Editor-in-Chief draws to a close, I am 100% confident with the changes I have made for future EICs and staff members. Although he or she will have some pretty big shoes to fill (no I’m not joking, I wear a size 12 in shoes), they will have the ability to lead the magazine in the best direction possible. So sit back, relax, read, and try not to get too jealous. Just join our staff in the spring.

Erinn Cawthon editor-in-chief

slope magazine EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Erinn A. Cawthon

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Molly Cronin

MANAGING ASSOCIATE Danielle Czirmer

DESIGN & CREATIVE EDITOR Kayla Hamberg

Copy Editors Cara Maloney Entertainment Lindsay Rothfeld

Fashion Danielle Czirmer Anjali Joseph Vidhya Kumar Meghann Shean

Music Jon Culver Elise Jacobs Sam Sveen

Student Life Ilya Brotzky Kit Lyman Sabina Sattler

Politics David Berezin

Contributing Writers Milos Balac Spencer Chen Steven Chen Cara Maloney Teresa Peltier Lisa Yang

Faculty Advisors Linda Mikula Tracey Vosburg

Slope Magazine, an independent student organization located at Cornell University, produced and is responsible for the content of this publication. This publication was not reviewed or approved by, nor does it necessarily express or reflect the policies or opinions of, Cornell University or its designated representatives.

Photography Tina Chou Roxanne Ravago SPECIAL THANKS TO: Linda Mikula Tracy Vosburg Chuck DePue

Narwal by James

Orlando

WANT TO CONTRIBUTE? WE KNOW YOU DO! Send an e-mail to magazine@slopemedia.org with your work attached along with a brief description.

FALL 2009

ENTERTAINMENT

The SLOG.......................................................................7 The Bubble Blurb.......................................................4 Sex Advice....................................................................9

MUSIC

Slope Interviews Mario........................................12 Maroon 5.....................................................................11 Album Reviews..........................................................22

FASHION

Gossip Girl and Mad Men Fashions.............21 Fashion Blogs................................................................6

One Trick Pony

FEATURES

Ken Glover and the Future of Program......13 Houses

STUDENT LIFE

Funny Questions to Sports Captains...........17 Eat Snails! Soup Recipe......................................10 Student Bands............................................................5 Fistula Free Climb....................................................18 Best Kept Secrets...................................................20

POLITICS

design by: danielle czirmer

Ted Kennedyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Death...........................................19

13 21

12 Tina to: pho

Polo Ralph er x o b n e r u a L briefs!

Cho

1) http://viciodeseriados.files.wordpress.com/2009/05/glee-poster_013.jpg

stare blankly at my computer screen. www.facebook.com. I continue to refresh the page. Minutes go by, new statuses are updated and my key to the outside world is revealed. “Kanye, what are you doing to Taylor? Lady Gaga is bleeding on stage!” It has come down to this pathetic action of relying on friends’ statuses to keep myself updated on life outside the bubble that we call Cornell. Welcome to Cornell University, where students are transported to a secluded community: full of vibrant culture and immunity to the outside world (with the exception of swine flu.) Yet, when we are kept inside this tight-knit bubble, how can we possibly manage to remain aware of what is occurring in the outside world? Many students bookmark Perez Hilton’s site or the New York Times online edition, but others sink deep into a sea of ignorance. So, what has happened since we have been here? There have been some biggies: for Broadway Musical lovers: former Spring Awakening star, Jonathan Groff, and current star of Hair, Gavin Creel, are now officially a couple, Ellen DeGeneres has replaced Paula Abdul on American Idol, Obama became the fourth president to receive a Nobel Prize, and just this past October did a student at Arizona State University fatally shoot himself in a professor’s office. President Obama was given the Nobel Peace Prize for 2009 for his “efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation between peoples,” according to the Nobel committee on http://nobelprize.org. The prize recognizes Obama’s efforts to rid the world of nuclear weapons. This decision has caused people to question the committee and wonder whether Obama was actually deserving of this prestigious acknowledgement. In terms of TV shows, House, based on an unconventional medical genius, has started this season out on a very different foot than in years past. During the season premier, House was recuperating in an insane asylum where he slowly develops in a

The BUBBLE

e l b b u B e h T Blurb

way we have never seen before. Since then, House has received his new medical license, moved in with Wilson, and Chase purposely killed his patient, a brutal African dictator. Gossip Girl, which most refer to as an exaggeration of life in NYC, has completely branched off from its narrative inspiration, as the show now follows the book’s protagonists in college. Dan has recently been dating an NYU student and acknowledged actress (played by Hilary Duff). Lily and Rufus have finally tied the knot, and Jenny has stepped right into Blair’s shoes as the Queen Bee of Constance Billard. We also see a surprising threesome between the main characters! (cue Britney Spears’ 3 song). Glee, a representation of a high school Glee Club, has brought a nice combination of hilarity and song to the television screen. Recently, Mr. Schuester has motivated his group of singers to work together in order to prepare for their next big competition. His wife, who has crazily lied about being pregnant, took a job at the school for a few days and distributed high doses of decongestants to the students. Soon to come: Jonathan Groff (Spring Awakening star) will soon make an appearance as Rachel’s love interest. The Cleveland Show, the new Family Guy spin-off, spotlights Cleveland Brown (neighbor on Family Guy) and his family after moving from Rhode Island to Virginia. The Browns have some interesting neighbors, including a family of bears and a red-neck couple. Kanye West will be featured in 2010 as a young boy named Kenny West. In the music world, according to Billboard.com, the top five songs are: 1) Fireflies by Owl City, 2) Empire State of Mind by Jay-Z + Alicia Keys, 3) Whatcha Say by Jason Derulo, 4) Replay by Iyaz, and finally 5) Down by Jay Sean (ft. Lil’ Wayne). u

LINDSAY ROTHFELD

The MUSIC

live live: Student bands and hiphopsters at Cornell

their hands up having fun ‘cause they can’t help but enjoy themselves.” “sloppy joe” Joe Jackson: “I would describe my own music as witty, difficult, sometimes abstract, and free.” He’s not your average rapper, playing with both words and numbers while in the Engineering school. I don’t know much about rap, but I think his West Coast roots shine through nice and chill. Kid Vision: A.K.A. Douglas John Cloninger mixes and produces murderin’ beats for “the organization and collaboration of a multitude of artists to create qualWeggalo Star ity music.” Hear him under raps of Khaim the Supreme As live musicians, we’re not trying to beat Billie Black, Kinetics, and Money Mars. Jean’s beat or Axel Rose’s guttural screech—well, may Los Madres de Juarez: “Son una venda de hijos be sometimes, but differently. A live band creates new sucios que buscan los ganchos en un charco de fango raw sound every time they play—whether it’s how they del estallido kraut-montado cunt pop. pronto los gantoggle their amp settings (can they turn it to eleven?), chos se combinarán y las madres llevarán una venda the acoustics of the venue, or the singer’s swine flu-ed de drunks a través del tendón sexy a una cueva en una voice. Writing songs, practicing them, getting gigs, and montaña mágica.” Got that? Spacey, electro, too cool not freezing on stage all take a considerable amount of pop. blood, sweat, and tears. Maurice Chammah: Violinist, guitarist, pianist, But who what where why when? Fanclub Colsinger/songwriter, composer, he artfully fuses “classical lective holds down the indie scene, hooking up with music, Arabic music, and pop-rock.” Maurice has played Ithaca Underground on occasion @ Appel, Big Red solo and in orchestras, and everywhere between. And Barn, The Shop (near the Commons). The Nines’ll get this spring keep a heads up for his compositions with your benefit on. Frats are frat-tastic. Castaways, Chapter the Cornell Chamber Orchestra. House, The Haunt, Wildfire Lounge (the new found Lost One Trick Pony: Joey and the gang keep it catchy Dog), etc. with the classic four piece band. You’ll be dancing and/ Here: a guide to the universe/all the bands you or falling in love with them while they’re up in lights doshould go see: ing their “own thing, no college rock, not indie, not folk Elsa and the awesomeAWESOMES: electroTetris rock, just pop.” catchy pants dance & bass straight from the Future! Steady State: This younger band has six memFreshly teamed up with friends and beach bums in on bers for musical chairs—often switching instruments the DIY artsiness, going guerrilla for just fun. Only fun. (and styles) for each song. With males and females, they Hogg Party: Rockledge Fraternity’s transient band started as a folksy-bluesy band, later bringing in cello consistently produces solid rock. Mostly covers, with a and upbeat drums for “people to get amped up and few original songs here and there, they play at the frat, DANCE!” of course, but also can be seen on the stages of vari Weggalo Star: “We are five guys in a band. We all ous Cornell-sponsored events. live in a house; we share it with a cat named Buttons. Hype City Kings: “That white rapper” puts out We play in our attic. … We rock loud and louder.” Space indie hip-hop at its finest. Gigging the frat scene and a rock with some hip vocal harmonies, they won WVBR’s few benefit concerts as well, his high energy will earn University of Rock competition last semester, so they’ve your interest and get “people put up on shoulders with gotta be good. u

SAM SVEEN

Jak and jil:

While magazines such as Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar still remain close to the hearts of many, much of people’s fashion soul-searching has shifted away from print and onto the web. Seemingly everyone can blog about their passions; a fact that has allowed even the most ordinary person to rise up as a fashionista among a cult. Below are some of the top fashion blogs and websites to check out.

The FASHION

s g o l b n o i h s a f p To

@ jakandjil.com/blog Photoblogger Tommy Ton has taken the blogging world by storm by teaming up with Style.com to showcase some of the most desirable fashion clothing, accessories, and personal style. Jak and Jil consists of more “action shots” rather than posed, introducing you to people who work behind the scenes who aren’t always shown in magazines, like Anna Dello Russo and Emanuelle Alt. His crisp and clear close-ups of accessories, such as a pair of studded Givenchy boots, give you an immediate and more personal look into the fashion world while you sit with your laptop drinking your grande soy chai tea latte.

Amlul: Style Rookie: @ tavi-thenewgirlintown.blogspot.com Big names such as Scott Schuman and Garance Dore have now begun to pave the way for other bloggers to begin showcasing their opinions, fashion aesthetic, and experiences with the volatile world of fashion. People like Tavi G, an 8th grader who hails from England, gain access to the most coveted seats at New York Fashion Week and some of the most popular and jaw-dropping shows. Her most recent post catalogues her own photos of Marc Jacobs Fall 2009 Ready To Wear collection, picking out the pieces she enjoyed the most. But her opinions don’t stop there. For a 13year- old, she certainly has quite the opinion about what is considered fashionable and what may simply be considered ugly. From a personal stand point, I was most certainly not in any way immersed in the fashion world at that age and was more concerned about prancing around in my gym sneakers and message t-shirts as a middle-schooler.

@ http://amlul.com/ Although she may look like a model off-duty, Gala Gonzalez is a 22-year-old stylist originally from Spain who’s now living the London life. After using Chictopia and saving photos online, she decided to start a blog and was one of the first to post pictures of herself and her effortlessly cool style. Her friend Gerard serves as photographer, with buddy and model Pelayo stepping in front of the camera sometimes as well, snapping candids and daily posed looks. Gala has risen to the top of the fashion bloggers and achieved international fame in the world of blogging with her keen eye for fashion forward outfits and her signature straight, long, brown hair. She has been featured in magazines around the world from Korean Vogue to and Elle Norway, and was even photographed by The Sartorialist himself. Nowadays she sits front row at runway shows and parties with Alexander Wang. Her motto: “I’m not going to tell you what to wear; I’m going to show you how.” u

DANIELLE CZIRMER + VIDHYA KUMAR designs by: danielle czirmer

The SEX

so You Wish You Could F**CK Every Girl in the World?

...Fishing For that One-Night Stand

uys always claim that girls are crazy and confusing—as one of my best guy friends so eloquently explains it, “Girls just don’t make sense.” In my female opinion, girls make perfect sense, but I’m constantly wondering how to decipher WHAT GOES ON in the male mind (even though they tend to THINK with another body part of theirs instead). And while I have repeatedly tried to figure out what men are thinking, with little success, I figure I can at least share some insight into the female mind in certain situations. It is no secret that parties at Cornell are essentially a congregation of eager, hormonally overdosed males and females both trying to find a potential hook-up. With both sexes on the prowl this seems like a perfect breeding ground for sexual encounters to go down. With girls already socially lubricated and hungry for some man-meat, the job should be pretty easy, but problems can arise with certain male techniques. I recently experienced a guy at a party feign interest in me at a party—you know, chatting me up, putting his hands on my hips, etc.—and I was playing along. It seemed as though we both knew where the night was going to take us. However, whenever I would start talking to someone else, this boy would immediately find a new girl to prey on, and he continued this rotation among three of us—whenever one of us would talk to someone else, he would rotate to the next one. I’m not sure why he thought this technique would seal the deal that night, but needless to say, he went home alone. Finding a person to take back to your apartment that night should not be like fishing for tuna— setting out a big net at the beginning and taking home whatever is left in it at the end of the night. This will inevitably result in an empty net and no fish. Another male behavior I will never understand is the classic comment from past hook-ups: “Hey, I haven’t seen you in forever—we should hang out sometime.” Of course, I already know we haven’t

seen each other in forever. Most likely because we’ve been avoiding each other ever since that ONE NIGHT you couldn’t GET IT UP last semester. If we had wanted to hang out since then, one of us would have called the other one; no phone calls have been made, and I’m sure you can make some sort of conclusion from this. Now what is the point of this comment? We both know this reunion is never going to happen, and now I’m just forced to respond with some generic line like “Yeah I know, call me sometime” when really I’m just thinking about how when I’m on my death bed I’m going to want these few minutes back. u

BUTTERCUP BABY 9

Soup Sundays: It really rolls off the tongue and I learned it from South African hipsters. We’ve got to have something about the snails…advocate a vegetarian Food of the Future (when suffering is obsolete). And today… we’re shooting for a potato, black bean, and basil soup, with a side of escargot (French, for snails). Ingredient Suggestions (serves about 6): Soup base: 5 big potatoes Half a gallon or so of milk A cup-ish of plain yogurt Some cream cheese Half stick to 3/4 of butter Soup additions: Fresh basil leaves Can of black beans Garlic Cayenne pepper Mustard Escargot: Small can of snails Half to 3/4 stick of butter Garlic (preferably chopped fresh or from the little jars) Other thangs: Baguette Cheese, like brie Fruit, like grapes or pears or apples

First off, fill a big pot with enough water to completely submerge the potatoes, and bring it to a boil (but don’t put in the potatoes yet). Grandmas and such say to add a pinch of salt to mess with the boiling point, but my chemistry class busted that myth in like 10th grade—a pinch won’t switch that vapor pressure, bitches. While the water’s boiling, let’s multitask and cut some potatoes. (I say potato, you say potato.) Have some fun chopping them up in chunks around the size of say, a golf ball. I’m not peeling the potatoes because I’m lazy; plus, we can just say that they add some nice texture to the soup. Once the water has boiled, toss the taters in for 10 or 15 minutes. Poke them with a fork near the end to see if they’re soft and where we want them, about like a banana. Then drain, and we’re ready to

The FOOD

SOUP SUNDAYS

mash. But wait, while all that potato action is going down, we’ve also gotta deal with the snails. Drain them just a bit by using the lid of the can and transfer them to an oven-able bowl. Put in some chunks of butter, like half or 3/4 of a stick, as well as a bunch of garlic, a good teaspoon or so. Besides preheating the oven (or toaster oven) to 232° C, or about 450° F, that’s it. When you’re 15 minutes out from being ready to eat them, just pop ‘em in to bake (and shake yourself). But let’s get back to the soup. Start mashing those potatoes. Now let’s add more stuff—this is where soup gets crazy. I’m plopping in butter, cream cheese, even some plain yogurt. It’s basically just mashed potatoes, but the addition of lots of milk soupifies it. The mix should be pretty mashed up by now, so put it back on the stove on medium-ish. Add the black beans. Mustache! (Mustache is my Emeril “Bam!”) You can rinse them out in a colander first, but the lazy route just adds a lovely purplish tint. Add some basil leaves. Mustache! Taste the soup. It’s probably a bit bland, so there comes a time to spice it up. Depending on what’s in your cabinet, you can really take it any direction you like. I’m going with some “Italian seasonings” (a mix of green stuff, like oregano), a good glob of Dijon mustard, and then heavy on the cayenne pepper and crushed red pepper. You could also probably take it east with some curry and paprika type stuff, maybe a little cumin too. Honey? Balsamic? Mustache? Whatever! It’s soup—be creative. With seconds left till serving, if you’re still feeling dull, squirt in some lemon or lime juice. It really adds some zing and will catch your guests off guard. Finally, the soup’s done and we can pull out the escargot. Use cheerful bowls and/or interesting cups for the soup, and large fun plates with room for the soup and some bread and cheese and snails. Once everyone’s seated, toast to your dinner and eat snails on the count of three. As everyone rubs their tummies and hums mmm, enjoy! And always remember, be creative and courageous! And throw recipes to the wind! u

SAM SVEEN

The MUSIC

Maroon 5: Big Red Loves You Live! I

have to admit my expectations were low upon walking into an uncrowded Barton Hall (relative to the Ludacris concert last February) with recent word of K’naan’s cancellation as opening act on Maroon 5’s “Back to School Tour.” I was pretty disappointed as the clock kept ticking closer towards 8 p.m. with no show of the band, but was blown away as soon as Maroon 5 hit the stage. Their energy was undeniable; especially of lead singer Adam Levine, who constantly interacted with the audience and genuinely seemed enthusiastic to be at Cornell. They opened with “Harder to Breathe,” which immediately engaged the crowd in a sing-a-long because the band’s quality was just as good as in their recordings. Adam Levine’s talent was obvious from the get-go, and culminated when he sang Alicia Key’s song “If I Ain’t Got You.” The fact that a guy could reach those notes was a shocker and he went on to describe his love for Alicia and appreciation of her talent (he called her a “certified badass”), taking the focus off him and Maroon 5, a very humble move indeed. This, along with Adam’s multiple jokes and witty comments, kept the concert especially entertaining, and helped make the female population fall even more in love with him (especially after taking off his

button up collared shirt to reveal his many tattoos). Particularly entertaining was Adam’s shout out to the security on the balcony and cracking jokes about how they have the best seats in the house and need to hold down the fort cause us college students can get rowdy. Also, after noticing a girl’s sign that said “Its my un-birthday, can I have your stool? “ Adam called her up on stage, let her sit on his stool (which he said could come off as really vulgar, playing with the double meaning of the word “stool”: another kneeslapper comment by Adam) and joked around with her by kicking her off stage with a faux-attitude. The girl was glowing as she walked off with her wooden prize (probably not realizing that the stool probably belongs to Cornell’s Barton Hall, hopefully it won’t get bursar-ed to her account!). You could feel the compounded jealousy in the air of every other girl there (I couldn’t help thinking to myself that I should have made a sign). Adam asked the audience to set up a “tempo” for him and for feedback on a new, acoustic version of “Wake Up Call” that had a country feel to it. Even though this version was much slower, the crowd still sang along and everyone I spoke to enjoyed it. The final songs of “She Will Be Loved” and “This Love” were the cherries on top of an amazing concert. I think everyone who witnessed Maroon 5 perform can agree; they will always be welcomed back to the Big Red. u

Elise Jacobs

Interview with Mario!

The INTERVIEW

MC: So your first album was my favorite, but how have you changed as an artist in your new album, DNA? What does it represent for you? M: DNA represents the evolution of me. More than Molly anything it’s a new sound for me. I’ve never been Mario this vulnerable in an album; I’ve never been able Erinn to try new things with music than I’ve tried with this album. DNA is more like the makeup of me. MC: So is it based off of personal experience? M: Every single song. From Breakup to my new single Thinking About You to Stranded, which is another incredible record. My favorite record on the album is called Hardest Moment. I think it’s going be one of the biggest records of my career. E: So we loved you in Step Up and Freedom Writers, so we were wondering if there were any upcoming movies you were going to be in? M: Well right now, I’m reading for different scripts, but the film industry is really tough, so if you’re not in it 100% like everyday...all day, it’s kind of hard to just jump in and get a role. I just read for a film called the “Little Fockers”, which is like an extension of “Meet the Fockers.” photo by: Tina Chou MC: We hear you developed your talent through E: It’s just my opinion…! singing karaoke at home? E: What do you do when you’re not performing? M: That was the power of practice. I started as a M: When I’m on the tour bus, I watch movies, sip on a little kid, four-years-old singing in front of the tv mimicksomething here and there. I got two alligators at home. ing everything I could hear. I think it was in my DNA MC + E: WHAT?!?! That’s crazy! from the beginning. M: Yup, they’re going to get bigger… E: Who would be your celebrity girl crush or boy (crazed fan interrupts our interview, hysterically crying and crush? shakes hands with Mario) M: BOY CRUSH?! Negative, there’s only one crush in Security: Here Mario take this, H1N1 you know… (squirts Purell my category and that’s a girl crush. Nah, I can tell in his hands) you right now, that ain’t even in MY DNA. But Audra E: Yeah wash your hands, we got that swine flu going on Simmons got my eye, from a group called RichGirl. here. Check her out! (p.s. they’re dating!) M: Oh man, SWINE FLU!!! MC: Team Kanye or Taylor? MC: Yeah don’t worry, you’ll be fine… M: I don’t like taking sides. When you think about E: What’s the design on your arm? whose making the music, they both are. [Starts M: It’s a microphone with an old scroll around it that says laughing while talking to security] They’re trying “Have No Doubt” to put me in a box over here man!!! Backing me up MC: What do you miss the most about home? against a wall! M: My mother, brother, family…being able to relax and chill. E: What’s your most embarrassing moment? And my alligators. M: Anytime you forget the lyrics of a record. But four E: You have names for them? years ago, I was performing in Europe, and I was M: They don’t have names. wearing track pants that button down on the sides. E: You should name them! WHY wouldn’t you name them… I was on stage and one girl pulled on one side, I M: I can’t tell which one is which! backed up, another girl pulled the other side, and MC: I mean you gotta learn, what do you think parents do BAM the pants came off! I was on stage with our when they have twins!?!?! briefs on… M: Kay ill try (Liar!) E: Yeah that was our next question...Boxers or briefs? E + MC: Thank you so much for allowing us to interview you. M: I def wear briefs when I perform. What do you M: Yo what up, you’re listening to an exclusive interview guys like? with your boy Mario, and these beautiful ladies from Slope MC: I like boxer briefs. Magazine. Thanks a lot guys. u E: I like boxers M: Ok why do you like BOXERS?! I mean what easy ERINN CAWTHON+MOLLY CRONIN access??!? Special thanks to MCFAB

The LIFE

This article does not reflect upon the opinions of others in Slope Media Group.

STUDENTS PROTECTING THEIR VOICE... Their Community & Ken Glover O

n June 29th, 2009, Ken Glover, the Residence Hall Director (RHD) of Ujamaa for over twenty years, was informed that he was to be removed from his position, and would be relocated to oversee High Rise 5. He would have two weeks to move out of his Ujamaa apartment, and it was made clear that his replacement would soon take over as the new Ujamaa RHD. The decisions came without warning or expectation, and within a matter of days, the news spread like wildfire among shocked students and alumni. “That one day, my Blackberry got so many e-mails that it died,” said Ola Williams ’10. In immediate response to the confusion and disturbance, Ebony Ray ‘10 created the Google group, Students for Ken Glover (SFKG), as a place for students and alumni across the country to organize discussion surrounding Mr. Glover’s relocation. “During the summer, when most Cornell students are dispersed throughout the country, it’s especially hard to be on the same page about what information is factual and speculative and moreover, know what actions were being taken or should be taken in response to the removal,” said Ray. Facilitated by the Google group, students took action: sharing documents, holding conference calls, and alerting alumni. Alarmed students and alumni began flooding the inboxes of Joe Burke, Director of Residential Programs and Susan Murphy, Vice President of Student and Academic Services, totaling up to 400 e-mails by the end of the summer. Within only a week’s time, SFKG sent letters to Burke and Murphy, expressing the group’s specific concerns and de-

mands in response to the administration’s decisions. With the reinstatement of Ken Glover at the forefront of their requests, SFKG also called for an institution of greater student participation in administrative decisions which directly affect program houses, their communities, and students; as well as student and alumni participation in the Program House review process specifically with representatives on the Campus Wide Study Team. By July 10th, SFKG had received word back from both of the administrators that they contacted. In his response letter, Burke informed SFKG that the decision had been made as part of a redistribution of staff responsibilities in lieu of the current economic recession. Asking students to understand Mr. Glover’s repositioning in a greater context, Mr. Burke implied no intention to rescind the decision. Susan Murphy, however, informed SFKG that Mr. Glover would remain the RHD of Ujamaa for the 2009-2010 school year, explaining that a search for a new Ujamaa RHD would begin in January 2010, which would include faculty and student participation. Unsatisfied with expressed requests still unmet, the growing number of SFKG stayed persistent in their goals through the remainder of the summer as they created a petition, arranged meetings with administration for September, and planned for further advocacy upon returning to campus. What is it about this one staff member that solicited such a strong, organized, and persistent reaction from students and alumni? “A few things that we can all agree upon is that Mr. Glover for more than twenty years

photo by: Erinn Cawthon

SFKG March during Homecoming ‘09

has poured his heart and soul into serving Cornell University’s Ujamaa Residential College; has touched the hearts of countless unsuspecting undergraduates; and has dedicated his life to the creation of a home away from home at Cornell for many students of color (who more often than not) benefit from the Ujamaa community as a transition into Cornell’s stringent environment,” said Ray in a letter to those who had signed on to SFKG at the group’s outset. According to members SFKG, Ujamaa residents, and others of the Cornell community, it is almost impossible to summarize everything that Ken Glover has done in his years of RHD. One of the leaders of the SFKG, Ola Williams, states, “He [Glover] wakes up everyday and makes it his responsibility to coach that Talented Tenth Du Bois talked about in his Souls of Black Folk. He doesn’t let us, the people centered around the Ujamaa community, forget why we are here, who we are, and where we have to go.” During his time as RHD, Mr. Glover helped sponsor Ithaca High School students, gave grassroots organizations a voice, and furthermore helped many students find internships, jobs, and resources. Students of Ujamaa’s past and present can testify to Ken Glover’s “above and beyond” support as RHD. “I clearly remember that Ken was an incredible source of support and encouragement. He made himself available to me many times on a personal level. He helped me find employment on campus so that I could continue to afford tuition

and the expenses of campus life. He had an amazing ability to keep everybody moving and focused and growing all at the same time,” said Caucasian former Ujamaa resident Steve Duff ’93 in a letter to Joe Burke. Reflecting on his personal experiences with Glover, Octavio Sandoval (’10) said, “The first day I walked into Ujamaa, he stopped me and we started conversing. He introduced me to resources on campus like OMEA, and gave me contacts of African American faculty members in AEM.” (OMEA, the office of minority educational affairs is designed to foster the welfare and increase the retention of minority students on campus). Current Ujamaa resident Angelique Boyer ’11 said of Mr. Glover, “He’s a really helpful resource to everyone in Uj….he’s always giving us suggestions and helps create a sense of community. He’s always helpful, and he always has a lot of insight on …any problem that you might have.” With nearly 250 members currently signed on to SFKG, along with increasing support by student groups including Haven (Cornell’s LGBTQ student union) LAL (La Asociación Latina) and APAA (Asian Pacific Americans for Action), it is clear that Ken Glover has made quite a profound impression on many Cornell students during his time at Ujamaa. Bearing in mind the consistent student and alumni accounts of Ken Glover’s positive role in the Ujamaa

The LIFE LIF

community, the events that occurred during the summer caused SFKG to question the reasoning behind the university’s decision to move him. An interesting coincidence with the movement of Mr. Glover lies in this year’s Program House Review, which was announced last spring. Taking place through the summer and fall months of 2009, this review was planned to assess how successful the houses are in accomplishing their goals and how well they contribute to the richness of the residential experience for the campus community. Why would the University remove a program house director, who has been involved for so long, in the midst of a program house review? It all seems too coincidental that during a program house review, the

sociated with a single program for 20 years. Ujamaa has to be more than a single person.” This reasoning hardly aligns with Burke’s justification of the reassignment as a product of the economic downturn, and only left more students confused and frustrated with the decision. For decades now, there has been some sort of geographical racial divide on campus. In the times before freshman ruled North Campus, most Caucasian students lived on West Campus, surrounded by frats, whereas many of the minority students chose to reside on North Campus. With the history of racial tension, the topic of Ujamaa has always been a subject of debate and controversy. The program houses (Akwe:kon, Ecology House, Holland International Living Center, Just About Music, Risley Residential College, and finally Ujamaa Residential College) all stationed on North, are considered “dorms”, with the exception of the residential colleges of Risley and Ujamaa. (Pause) Risley and Ujamaa are both Residential Colleges? SFKG argues that Ujamaa has already suffered a lack of adequate amenities in comparison to Risley and other Residential Colleges on West. Risley is a much bigger facility with a theater, library, and dining hall. Ujamaa has none of these facilities, and should not even possess such an equal title. Although this “residential college,” does not boast sophisticated features like other residential colleges, students still continue to live there. Why? Many believe it’s because the idea of a safe space and being able to interact with others of similar background. Others say such an environment makes it easier for students to express themselves and feel comfortable in their own skin. Whether it’s at Unity Hour debating a heated issue, or just laughing in a study lounge, Ujamaa serves as a functional community for those who wish to celebrate African culture. As planned, Susan Murphy met with SFKG at the beginning of the fall semester. At this meeting, she insinuated the university’s attempt to “reinvent” Ujamaa. How can you positively REINVENT a so-called “residential college” by removing such an influential individual in the community? The members SFKG are afraid that

“Mr. Glover for more than 20 years has poured his heart and soul into serving

Ujamaa...and has touched the hearts of

”

countless unsuspecting undergraduates

Jonel Daphnis, Melanin Body Photography

university would choose to remove one of the strongest resources who unified Ujamaa. By doing so, Ujamaa’s structure may weaken and would not be represented to its fullest potential during the review. However, when the members of SFKG questioned Burke and Murphy during meetings about the re-assignment, both claimed it was strictly a personnel decision, and the details could not be disclosed to the community. According to SFKG, this disclosure follows a trend of important decisions about Cornell diversity issues being made without students’ voice. Additionally, in one of such meetings, Murphy was quoted to say “To be quite honest with you, I think we’ve made a mistake in keeping a single person as-

Jonel Daphnis, Melanin Body Photography Jonel Daphnis, Melanin Body Photography

the university may be attempting to re-imagine Cornell by restructuring Ujamaa, however as Williams says, “not all change is good, let alone necessary.” Susan Murphy claims that it is false to say “the decision to move Ken Glover is a step in the removal of Ujamaa from campus” and went on to say “I fully expect Ujamaa to remain as a program house at Cornell.” It may remain as a program house, but will it still give minority students a comfortable space to flourish in? And will it provide students of color the history of their heritage and connect them to resources across campus like Ken Glover was able to facilitate? In establishment of a campus campaign for their goals, community meetings in Ujamaa were launched (by SFKG) shortly after returning from summer break. During these community meetings, a timeline of the summer’s events that occurred was created, goals were outlined, and the main points of meetings with Murphy and Burke were discussed. Students of the Ujamaa community adamantly conversed trying to figure out the next plan of action. All and all, their efforts had not been sufficient in achieving their goals. Attendees at the meetings decided this was not enough – protests were initiated. On October 17, 2009, SFKG marched during Homecoming carrying signs of “GOT GLOVER? WE DON’T” and “Closed DOORS, Closed HEARTS, CLOSED MINDS.” A silent protest was also held during the quarterly meeting of the Board of Trustees on a rainy day on October 23, 2009 when students taped their mouths to show their need for student voice. However, as the rain poured harder, the tape came off and protesters made their voices heard with chants of “What do we want? STUDENT VOICE! When do we want it? NOW!”

Among the protesters leading the chant was Zachary Murray (’11). Showing tremendous dedication Jonel Daphnis, Melanin Body Photography to protecting students’ voice by meeting with Susan Murphy, he has taken an active role in community meetings, and represented students on a panel during the “Under Review: The Future of Program Houses at Cornell” meeting (along with select faculty members and administration). Murray claims that, “The abrupt removal of Mr. Glover signals an end to the student voice and self-determination that is so key to Ujamaa’s existence.” This is just the beginning. Considering the lengths that the group has gone through to organize these meetings and protests, it is clear that they are not only trying to reinstate their friend and mentor Ken Glover as RHD, but are also aiming to protect student voice and the future of program houses as we know it. It seems that The Students for Ken Glover group will not stop until their goals are met. In January 2010, the university will launch a search for a new RHD for Ujamaa to begin July 2010. If the university chooses a new RHD and does not reinstate Ken Glover, many feel that Ujamaa will cease to be a safe space for minority students. Furthermore, this decision may bring an eventual end to the role of student contribution and opinion in the program house system. MOLLY CRONIN + ERINN CAWTHON 16

The LIFE

Funny Questions FOr sports captains 1. What is your biggest pet peeve on the field? 2. What about off the field?

Girls Soccer: Katie Hayes 1. When someone loses the ball and doesn’t fight to get it back. 2. Jerks. People who are just rude and inconsiderate to other people.

Girls Track: Jessica Weyman

1. When people do not try their best to give 100%. Every meet and every practice matters. 2. When people don’t clear the time on the microwave when they take out something early.

Girls Field Hockey: Katie Kirnan

1. Bad attitudes and bad refs 2. When you are receiving your change from a cashier and the cashier gives you the bills before the coins, because then I have to juggle the coins and I always drop them. I like it better when the cashier gives me the coins before the bills so then the coins go in my palm/hand and then I can grab the bills with my fingers.

Girls Cross Country: Stephanie Pancoast 1. People stepping on my feet 2. Cars honking when they’re stuck in traffic. It doesn’t help anything - it’s just annoying.

Girls Basketball: Lauren Benson 1. Buzzer beaters from the opposing team. 2. Drivers who don’t use a turning signal.

Girls Lacrosse: Morgan Hale

1. As a defender, it is probably allowing a grub goal (a goal that occurs when the ball is down in the 8m). 2. Swooshie pants

Girls Ice Hockey: Liz Zorn 2. When people interrupt you

Girls Gymnastics: Molly Parker 1. Bad attitudes, because they are contagious 2. When my sleep is disturbed

Girls Softball: Elise Menacker

1. When teammates complain. Sure, every once in a while we all have our moments, but constantly complaining about practice times and grueling travel schedules can get annoying. 2. When people borrow my things without asking.

Girls Equestrian: Heather Sherman 1. When someone in the crowd scares the horse when I am in the ring showing. 2. When people block the sidewalk and walk too slow

Girls Swimming: Emily Caras

1. When I forget my water bottle for practice 2. When I don’t have enough quarters for the laundry machine!

Men's Basketball: Jeff Foote 1. Missing a shot 2. Bad smells

Men's Swimming: Sasha Dobrolioubov 1. When the water is too cold 2. Being wet when I don’t want to be wet

Men's Lacrosse: Ryan Hurley

1. “Shiny” or “Greasy” lacrosse balls. A ball that is new, fresh out of the box, has a lot of grip on it, and makes your stick throw the way you want it. Greasy lacrosse balls happen when a ball is used a lot and the grip wears off. This usually happens after 2 weeks. 2. When people say “bro” in conversation. It irritates me when people say it. I would be ok if the person who said it was a surfer from Cali, but most people that say “bro” I come in contact with are not Cali surfers.

Men's Wrestling: Troy Nickerson

1. I really can’t stand wrestling someone who goes out on the mat “to keep the score close”. If you’re out there, you should give it your best no matter what the result is. 2. When people aren’t on time. I am a very time conscious person and always make sure I am never late. When people make me have to wait for them, I can’t stand it.

Men's Soccer: Matt Bouraee

1. I don’t like how most soccer players only use their dominant foot on the ball. When one of my teammates messes up a play because they were using their left foot, I consider it to be an invalid excuse. Soccer players at this level should be competent with both feet. 2. I get annoyed when people leave the lights on in rooms that are not being used, and also let the water run when they are brushing their teeth or shaving. It is such a waste. Cornell’s buildings and dorms leave lights on every night, yet the University wonders what actions it could take to become more sustainable.

Men's Ice Hockey: Blake Gallagher

1. Bad puck drops by linesmen on face offs 2. Waiting in lines u Kit Lyman

From Cornell to Kilimanjaro

I was bored at work. Sitting at my desk at my summer internship, taking a break from work and surfing the Cornell World Changers network, I came across an article about a Cornell Alumnus, Seth Cochran, who climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro in 2007 to raise money for cleft lip surgeries through which he raised just under $40,000. Having juzst been accepted to the Cornell Tradition program over the summer, I was looking for a way to spend the $3,500 (amount the program awards to students initiating volunteer projects). The second I read about Seth’s summitforsmiles.org I knew this is what I wanted to do. I emailed him right away, he got back to me within 5 minutes and we talked over Skype the next night; me in Sydney and him in Berlin. We decided to open up the climb to others and that I would fundraise for the non-profit that Seth was now running, OperationOF.org, which helped treat women with obstetric fistula. Like most people, I’d never heard before and was shocked to learn that it was a maternity condition that left women with a lesion between the bladder and vagina which leaked urine and sometimes stool uncontrollably after an unsuccessful birth. What was even more disturbing was that it only costs $250 to provide a surgery that is over 90% successful and that hardly anyone in the west was doing anything about it. Since Seth was running the non-profit and had agreed to mentor me throughout the process of putting the trip together, I felt that it not only fair to raise money for OperationOF.org, but obligatory given the graveness of the condition. The decision to start the Fistula Free Climb was not without sacrifice. I had to give up competitive swimming, something that I had been defining myself as since I was eight years old. However, I knew that swimming had taken me as far as it could and that this trip to Tanzania was the way to push forward after Cornell. When I got to campus, I started shopping the idea of

the climb around to various groups, trying to get a team of passionate students to join me on the journey to Uhuru Peak and $100,000 for OperationOF.org – the goals of the Fistula Free Climb. I spammed list serves, attended meetings and talked to everyone and anyone at clubfest. Eventually, a team of people started to form around the idea. Now there are twelve Fistula Free Climbers, with a few still on the fence including two alumni. The climb is open to anyone who wants to come until the December 20th deadline. From January 3rd to 22nd, we will be volunteering in the Fistula ward of Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Center, climbing Kilimanjaro via the Machame (aka Whiskey) route and going on a safari in the Ngorongoro Crater, said to be the Eighth Wonder of the World. It’ll be a chance for us to get out of our first world comfort zones and push towards physical and monetary goals that currently seem almost out of reach. The best part of the journey so far has been the people who have showed up along the way to help me come closer to our goals. Like in the best-selling novel, The Alchemist, there have been a handful of individuals who I’d never met before who have taken the time to reach out and give me some advice or encouragement. The most random and memorable of these people has been Minster Gligor Tashkovich, who was the Minister of Foreign Investment for the Government of the Republic of Macedonia. A fellow Cornelian, Minster Tashkovich found out about the FFC through Linked In and was gracious enough to speak over the phone for about an hour about his two climbs of the mountain and general life experiences, both of which were humorous and fascinating. Looking forward, I cannot wait for the future people and places that we will encounter through our journey. u

For more information please visit: fistulafree.org

Ilya Brotzky

The POLITICS

photo: Roxanne Ravago

The end of a dynasty

hen John F. Kennedy, an Irish-Catholic, ran for president in 1960, my grandmother, who was also IrishCatholic, wouldn’t vote for him. “He’s too charming,” she’d tell her friends. “I don’t trust him.” History would later prove my grandmother right. Although in the sixties, the Kennedy brothers were the ideal Americans—young, handsome, and rich—it would later be revealed that their personal lives didn’t quite match the standards that their country had placed on them. America started to see the Kennedys as a family of drunkards and adulterers who had gained political prestige and a sense of entitlement because of their name. But by that time, both JFK and his brother Bobby were dead, having been assassinated at the height of their popularity. And so it’s been their brother, Ted, who has had to live through his family’s denigration. As the youngest Kennedy brother and the third to enter politics, Ted had also suffered the stigmas of riding his brothers’ coattails and being unable to live up to their accomplishments. As the youngest, Ted also had a father who was too old to cover up his wrongdoings and consequently had to live out the Chappaquiddick incident (in which he drove his car off a bridge in Chappaquiddick Island and fled the scene after his passenger drowned) in the spotlight, derailing his hopes for the presidency. Failure has also breached his personal life: his first wife having divorced him (a huge stigma in a Catholic family) for the extramarital affairs that the wives of his older brothers tolerated.

Like my grandmother with JFK, I’m also conflicted about how to view Edward Kennedy following his death. As a Democrat, I can’t deny his extraordinary political career, which has entailed four decades as the Senator of Massachusetts. Nicknamed “the Liberal Lion,” he was a steady voice for the liberal cause, even during the Reagan years and the post-9/11 days of George W. Bush’s presidency. But he was also a Kennedy, and that certainly could’ve been why he maintained his Senate seat for that long and why he walked free from an incident that a man without that last name might’ve gone to jail for. So how will Ted Kennedy be remembered? For his last name? For his political career? For Chappaquiddick? His years on the Senate and his dedication to the liberal cause have certainly made him one of the greatest politicians of the twentieth century. But despite having lived more than four decades past JFK and Bobby, his legacy will never compare with those of his brothers. Nothing can compete with what could’ve been, even forty years on the United States Senate. So what does the future hold for the Kennedy family with its patriarch gone? Caroline Kennedy (Ted’s niece and JFK’s daughter) has recently tried to enter politics through her failed nomination bid for Hillary Rodham Clinton’s senate seat. But after suffering eight years of a president from another powerful family, Americans are moving away from choosing brothers and sons their leaders. In 2008, they elected Barack Obama, whose father was a Kenyan immigrant and whose last name isn’t remotely similar to that of any of the other presidents who came before him. And one of his biggest supporters was Senator Kennedy. u DAVID BEREZIN

The LIFE

Cornell’s Best Kept Secrets

veryone at Cornell knows that there is always something to do or go see around campus. The trouble is the large size of Cornell’s campus is both a blessing and a burden. Although there are countless things to do (including work, work, and work), the reality is a lot of them are unknown—because there is not always someone on Ho Plaza to try and force a quarter card in your hand about every event there is (though it may sometimes feel like that). So Slope Media is here to inform you of some of Cornell’s best kept secrets that are worth checking out.

A New Place to Study: Tired of libraries, but going home is always unproductive? David Bell, a staff member of the Student Activities Office, said, “Did you know that on many days you can find an absolute silent space to study in Willard Straight Hall? By venturing up to the 6th floor of WSH (south Staircase) you can often find a completely empty Loft 3, which holds a few comfy chairs as well as a conference table.”

A Fresh Place to Eat:

Not that it is hard to find good food on campus, but who doesn’t love eating more good food, especially from an underground eatery? I’ve heard from a couple students including our Editor-in-Chief, Erinn Cawthon ’11, say that Temple of Zeus is a great place to find homemade, delicious soups. “I really like the hummus there!” Erinn added. In fact, this cute little café actually is underground; turn right in the entrance of Goldwin Smith and walk down that set of stairs, you have probably never noticed and enjoy!

Novel Music

: Everyone has their own taste of music but college is about new and fun experiences, so checking out music by your fellow Cornellians is definitely worthwhile. You may find a new fav musician by stopping by WSH during the day, where student artists perform from all genres—and sometimes it is even their own music, a truly unique listen.

Something Different to Do on a Friday Night: Need something to do on a Friday night besides just going to a frat party (or at least something to do before)? Though people of course know about our campus museum, the Johnson, there are a lot of events and hands on art activity series that people are unaware of. Molly Cronin ’11 suggests, “Go to the Johnson Museum and watch different performance groups! I could watch Cornell dance troupes perform forever.” Another great night adventure Steven Jenkins ’11 recommends is the Fuertes Observatory. Though I must admit, most probably know that Cornell has an observatory, I am sure not many of you have actually admired the beauty of Cornell’s sky; it is worth looking up for. u

Sabina Satler

The FASHION

When Fashion Trends Mimic TV Shows

hile shows like Gossip Girl and Mad Men are vastly enjoyed by audiences for their scandalous storylines that include betrayal, sex, and drugs – the shows have influenced the world of fashion designers and consumers because of its impeccable style and innovative clothing choices. The clothes worn by characters in these shows have inspired a number of designers, like Michael Kors and Anna Sui, to come out with lines that are reminiscent of the clothes worn by the actors/ actresses. Cornell girls may dream of strutting down 5th avenue in Manolos and the latest Dolce and Gabbana dress like the Blair Waldorf and Serena Van Der Woodsen, but our wallets and Libe slope quickly squash all ideas of glamour, as we try our hardest not to sweat after that hike. But lucky for us, designers like Anna Sui and Alexander McQueen anticipated the lack of money and came out with recession friendly lines that don’t kick our cute clutches in the gut, mimicking the very shows we drool over. Anna Sui’s line may be the most talked about for Target because it draws directly from the girls of Gossip Girl. Sui’s line carries the preppy fashion of Blair, the boho chic yet glammed up look of Serena, punk rock schoolgirl Jenny, and risqué prints sported by Vanessa. Sui’s line is carried by most Target stores and can be found online on target.com. For the guys of Cornell who are secretly looking to take a cue from the boys of Gossip Girl, take a look at the cool geek style that entails fitted to skinny jeans, striped cardigans, and earth tones to convey a downto-earth look sported by Dan Humphrey. (that will have the Serenas of the world going wild and frankly who doesn’t want a hot, leggy blonde chasing after them?) If you’re looking into a more disheveled prepster look that epitomizes Nate Archibald, try some cable-

knit sweaters, argyles, pin-striped shirts, and make them look less stuffy by loosening the neck and rolling up the sleeves. Though many men don’t have the cajones to pull off the outrageous style of Chuck Bass (the man wears bowties like nobody’s business), one can try by clashing bold and loud colors, utilize suspenders, rugby striped scarves, but most importantly the absolute arrogance and confidence of a badass. Make all these styles your own and add a bit of your own personality to it and you’ll have all the girls of the Upper Eastside chasing after you, or at least the girls on Ho Plaza. Mad Men has made most designers mad (pun intended) for the glamorous styles of the late 50s and early 60s shown on this provocative show, which include full skirts, billowing cocktail dresses, thin lapels for suits and skinnier ties. The bold colors and feminine dresses worn by the women of Mad Men have inspired designers like Michael Kors to base entire fall fashion lines on the styles evocative of the earlier decades. The stylist for the show, Janie Bryant, is coming out with her own line that will have us all dressing like Betty Draper and Joan Holloway, while we sip our vodka martinis and light up a cigarette in our dorm rooms. The best way to emulate the styles of these characters without running up a sizable credit card bill is to check out the numerous vintage stores in the Commons (Petrune’s, avanti!, Evolution) and recession friendly stores like H&M, Forever 21, and Charlotte Russe for pencil skirts and sheath dresses. For the guys who want to be smooth like Don Draper, look into a well-tailored and fitted suit with thinner lapels and expand into different styles by going with slate gray, dark navy, and pinstriped suits. One cannot go wrong with purchases based on these shows because not only are they made affordable, but they all have a classic look about them that allows for versatility and long lasting wear. u

Anjali Joseph

design by: danielle czirmer

WE <3 MUSIC Jay Z Blueprint 3 Roc Nation

Jay Z is back again with his highly anticipated third album in the Blueprint sequence, Blueprint 3. Those fans looking for the feel of the original Blueprint can find the same kind of attitude on “Empire State of Mind,” with Alicia Keys as chorus and on “Run This Town” with Rihanna. In “What We Talkin’ About,” he refers to past grievances, and celebrates the Obama presidency in “History.” Continuing into “Real as It Gets,” Young Jeezy complements Jay Z’s signature wit. Closing the album is “Young Forever” featuring the fitting Mr. Hudson. This new take on a classic song demonstrates the realization that the fountain of youth comes from creating timeless compositions that will transcend generations. Is it time for Jay Z to retire? Of course not. Blueprint 3 is a fresh listen showing that this legendary artist still has staying power with more to offer. Danielle Czirmer Rosi Golan The Drifter & the Gypsy Gypsy Betch Hazy by Rosi Golan ft. William Fitzsimmons: After recently airing on Fox’s new show, Dollhouse, Golan’s recent song intrigued many viewers with its soothing melody and poetic lyrics. Golan, an Israeli born singer/songwriter debuted with her first album, “The Drifter & the Gypsy” in November 2008, after seven years of writing and performing her work. Her folk style has a “Colbie Caillat” feel and serves as a perfect catalyst for winding down. With Golan and Fitzsimmons sultry voices and dulcet guitar and piano skills, Hazy tells a romantic, yet vulnerable story of two people falling in love. With her emotional portrayals and expressive lyrics, Rosi Golan will soon put folk music back on the charts. Kit Lyman Kid Cudi Man On the Moon : The End of Day Universal Motown Rap is a constantly evolving genre. New artist Kid Cudi says that he is trying to end the segregation of different genres with the release of his debut album, “Man on the Moon: The End of Day.” The album has been labeled various genres including alternative hip-hop, neo-psychedelia, trip hop, and space rock. Arguably the best song on the album, “Day ‘n’ Nite,” tells the story of the “lonely stoner.” The single, and the rest of the album, is meant to feel like a dream. It’s not all so deep though, the song “Make Her Say” features Kanye West and unknowingly Lady GaGa. Kid Cudi turns the popular line “Poker Face” into “I Poke Her Face.” In the end, “Man on the Moon” is a dream worth having. Jon Culver