The Signal: Fall '16: No. 12

Breaking news, blogs and more at TCNJSignal.net.

Vol. XLV, No. 12

Serving The College of New Jersey community since 1885

November 30, 2016

Mitchell’s show: ‘All That’ students wanted

By Elise Schoening Features Editor

Kel Mitchell stepped onto the Mayo Concert Hall stage accessorized with his Nickelodeon backpack and “All That” jacket.

The accomplished actor, writer and director got his start on the hit ’90s television series “All That” and “Kenan and Kel.” Years later, Mitchell can still be found working for Nickelodeon with a lead role in the television series “Game Shakers.”

“I love family entertainment. I can go to sleep at night knowing I didn’t play something that I’m going to feel weird about later,” Mitchell said in an interview with The Signal. “I’m still the guy to go home and watch cartoons. Me and my wife are into that, so I think it’s just awesome to be in that work and doing something positive for the next generation.”

On Thursday, Nov. 19, Mitchell took a break from his packed schedule to perform a free comedy show for students at the College.

Mayo Concert Hall filled to capacity with students eager to relive their childhood days, but students at the College aren’t Mitchell’s only fans.

“I love my ‘Good Burger’ fans, but some of y’all get a little crazy. Even gangsters like ‘Good Burger,’” Mitchell said before launching into a story about gang members in Los Angeles who asked Mitchell to review their mixtape.

Kim Iannarone / Photo Editor

Mitchell drinks orange soda and raps for the crowd during the show.

During the stand-up comedy show, Mitchell also told tales about the death of chivalry and his experience growing up in the South Side of Chicago.

“I grew up in Chicago and we had these kids who used to always try to beat me up. They tried to punk me,” Mitchell

said. “But I was good, though, because I had a cousin who always had my back, who always looked out for me and everybody was scared of her.”

Mitchell told The Signal that his challenging childhood is the reason he now dedicates much of his time to giving back

to those in inner cities across the country.

“I got into drama at a young age,” Mitchell said. “It kind of saved me from going down the wrong path, so I wanted to give that back to a lot of different kids however I could. Through my speaking and through the different events that I put on, I always try to do that.”

In between acting and producing, Mitchell visits inner cities to perform for at-risk youth. Mitchell told The Signal he has been doing it for so long that some of the kids are now in college.

“We still stay in contact,” Mitchell said. “They hit me up on Instagram or they come on set. It’s just awesome to see them grow up.”

Mitchell’s youthful enthusiasm shined through in his routine at the College.

While onstage, Mitchell showcased his moonwalking skills and danced to the Nae Nae and Cat Daddy. It was a comedy show unlike any other.

“You work out? Come up here and do butt kicks,” Mitchell told one audience member. “This is going to be an interactive show.”

Throughout the night, the comedian called several students onstage to act out old bits and catchphrases from “Good Burger.”

Selected students were unable to mask their excitement and could be seen see ALL THAT page 15

survivor Students get candid about virginity Holocaust hopes story lives on

Termyna describes what she believes is the definition of ‘virginity.’

By Mia Ingui Managing Assistant

“We’re going to talk about virginity today!”

Warm, enthusiastic and

INDEX:

completely candid, Kayla Termyna, vice executive chair of Women In Learning and Leadership (WILL) and a senior deaf education and women’s, gender and sexuality studies

Nation & World / page 6

Follow us at...

The Signal @tcnjsignal

Editorial / page 7

Kim Iannarone / Photo Editor

(WGS) double major, opened the College’s third annual Virginity Monologues with a bang.

The Virginity Monologues are just one part of WILL’s Redefining Sex Week, which Opinions / page 9

strives to entertain and educate students at the College about sexuality and gender identity.

The monologues were held in the Library Auditorium on Wednesday, Nov. 16, with not a spare seat in sight. Redefining Sex Week is WILL’s biggest event of the year and the Virginity Monologues have become a crowd favorite, allowing it to be held in a larger venue as opposed to a classroom in the Social Sciences Building.

“The Virginity Monologues have picked up a lot of audience attention,” Termyna said. “The bigger space now makes the event feel much more real.”

The event featured four speakers who openly shared their stories of virginity, whether it be losing it, reclaiming it or simply defining it.

Then, the discussion was opened to the audience, who were invited to share their own stories.

Termyna initiated the event with a slideshow on virginity.

By Alyssa Gautieri Production Manager Sybil Ehrlich, a 91-year-old Holocaust survivor, shared her experience with college students for the first time on Wednesday, Nov. 16, in the Physics Building as a part of Hillel’s annual Jewish Education Week.

“If someone had told me 79 years ago that I would be here speaking to a group of college students, I would not have believed it,” Ehrlich said.

Ehrlich, who regularly speaks to middle and high school students at the Esther Raab Holocaust Museum and Goodwin Education Center, said she shares her story because “it’s important that the next generation knows what happened.”

Ehrlich, who was born in 1924 in Berlin, moved to Holland at the age of 8 after her father saw the conception of anti-semitism in Germany.

The Germans slowly overtook Europe — by 1940, they had seized France, Belgium, Denmark and Norway. However, Ehrlich and

see VIRGINITY page 17

Arts & Entertainment / page 14

see HILLEL page 3 Features / page 17

Sports / page 28

CUB Alt Sorority Noise rocks Decker Social Space

TCNJ Formation Students perform their version of ‘Formation’

Cross Country Lions compete in Division III nationals

See A&E page 15

See Features page 17

See Sports page 28

Scivantage COO shares business advice page 2 The Signal November 30, 2016

By Thomas Infante Reviews Editor

On the evening of Tuesday, Nov. 15, the College’s Entrepreneurship Club hosted a guest speaker, alumnus Alex Sauickie (’93), in the Education Building.

Sauickie currently works as the chief operating officer (COO) of Scivantage, a company that specializes in developing software to analyze financial data.

Sauickie spoke about his career in business since graduating from the College and offered advice to those in the audience who hoped to start their own business one day.

Sauickie graduated from the College in December 1993, back when it was still called Trenton State. Sauickie said it took him an extra semester to graduate because he “had too much fun as an underclassman.” He earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a focus on marketing.

Upon graduating, he received a parttime offer from Merrill-Lynch, a large brokerage firm that has since been acquired by Bank of America. He turned it down, in the hopes that he would be offered a full-time position. Luckily, his employer was also an alumnus of the College and so he was given the position he wanted.

Throughout the next six years he spent at the firm, he was promoted seven time. He said he always “looked ahead to what was next” and never got too comfortable.

“My manager at the time always forced his employees to work outside of their comfort zones,” Sauickie said. “Although I was hired to a position that involved client services, my manager moved me into positions that were focused in areas like operations and finance.”

Being introduced to different areas made him a more savvy businessperson.

“It’s not always best to rise straight up,” he said.

Although he could have continued to work within Merrill-Lynch, Sauickie was eager to branch out further and left to form a startup company that failed after 16 months. After that, he moved to Manhattan to work for Island ECN, an online stock trading company that was a major competitor of NASDAQ at the time. The company was eventually bought by a larger firm called Instinet for more than $500 million.

After that, he spent eight years working at yet another startup that was acquired for more than six times its initial value.

Now that Sauickie has extensive experience in many areas of business, he is often offered jobs solely based on that experience.

“Many companies hire me when they are losing a lot of money,” Sauickie said.

“My job is to turn the company around, build it back up and sell it at a high enough premium to repay the investors in the company.”

Through years of hard work and many different jobs, Sauickie has become an independent and successful businessperson.

He had several points of advice to offer those who are also interested in creating a startup company.

His first piece of advice: Be persistent.

“You should always go after what you want, be it a job or a relationship,” Sauickie said. “If you get too comfortable, you’ll lose your drive for success.”

His also stressed the importance of networking in the modern business world.

“I use LinkedIn much more (than) I use Facebook,” Sauickie said. “Blogging on your profile helps potential employers see it and could be the difference in getting hired to a competitive position.”

Sauickie also emphasized the importance of public speaking in a professional environment.

Randell Carrido / Staff Photographer

Sauickie sees value in both his business successes and failures.

“It’s something that everyone should learn because of how often you’ll have to speak in front of a group,” Sauickie said. “When I was a kid, I hated practicing public speaking, but as I got better, it became natural.”

His final piece of advice to those with an idea for a startup was simple: Do it now.

“Don’t wait on your good ideas,” Sauickie said. “When I was in college, I had the same idea to make a social media platform just like Facebook before it even existed. You don’t want to regret not developing a great concept.”

Like any successful businessperson, Sauickie is familiar with the concept of risk and told the audience that risk can be justified depending on what exactly one is trying to achieve.

“I left Merrill-Lynch because the passion I had for having a top position at a

startup company was worth more to me than a decent job,” Sauickie said. “There was a trade off of ownership/equity and benefits/stability.”

Sauickie told the audience to take it easy once in awhile and find hobbies or activities to relieve stress outside of work.

“For the first 10 years of my career I worked brutal hours,” Sauickie said.

“It was unhealthy. I was overweight and sleep-deprived. But just like my career, I set goals for myself, and in July of this year (I) finished my first Ironman race.”

Although Sauickie has had his share of business failures, he said he does not regret any of the choices he made throughout his career.

“Even if a company fails, you still gain valuable experience in running it,” Sauickie said. “That’s worth more than anything else.”

CAs find homemade bongs during fire drill

By Ellie Schuckman Staff Writer

for additional medical treatment. The student was issued a summons for underage drinking, police said.

• On Friday, Nov. 11, at approximately 12:01 p.m., a male caller contacted Campus Police to report a golf cart in Lot 16 had been vandalized. Two officers were dispatched to the lot where they met with the caller, police said. The male stated that at approximately 11:30 a.m., he discovered the golf cart had its ignition removed. The officers observed the vandalism and took photographs for documentation. According to reports, the male said the golf cart was last used on Tuesday, Nov. 8, at approximately 5 p.m.

• On Saturday, Nov. 12, at approximately 12:30 a.m., two Campus Police officers were dispatched to Eickhoff Hall in regard to an intoxicated 19-year-old male. A Community Adviser (CA) called Campus Police dispatch after seeing the male student was having trouble standing up. Upon the officers’ arrival, they met with the intoxicated student who stated he had consumed an unknown amount of Smirnoff vodka in New Residence Hall, police said. According to reports, TCNJ EMS responded to the scene and assessed the student, deeming it unnecessary to transport him for additional medical treatment. The student was issued a summons for underage drinking, police said.

• On Saturday, Nov. 12, at 11:30 a.m., a Campus Police officer met with a student at Campus Police Headquarters who wanted to report a theft. The officer met with a student who said on Friday, Nov. 11, at approximately 9 p.m., she was at an event in the Education Building where she last saw her cell phone. According to reports, at approximately 11:30 p.m., the student came back to her apartment when she realized her cell phone was missing. She searched her apartment, but had negative results. She then used the Find my Phone app that showed her cell phone in the Education Building, police said. The student went back to the Education Building, but had negative results. She went back on the app, which now showed her cell phone near Travers and Wolfe halls.

The student went to the Wolfe Hall main office and asked if anyone had turned in a cell phone. The CA on duty stated that no one had left a phone. According to reports, the student attempted to call her phone several times throughout the night, but it rang and then went straight to voicemail. Campus Police advised the student to contact her cell phone provider and have the phone shut off, and to contact Campus Police if she had any further information.

• On Saturday, Nov. 12, at 2 a.m., two Campus Police officers were dispatched to the Eickhoff Hall downstairs women’s bathroom in regard to an intoxicated 20-year-old female. A CA called Campus Police dispatch after hearing a student vomiting in the bathroom, police said. Upon the officers’ arrival, they met with the intoxicated student who said she consumed five shots of vodka and other unknown alcohol. Her roommate said the intoxicated student’s friends had called the roommate to help the intoxicated student get back to her room because she was too intoxicated to get there by herself. According to reports, the roommate stated that the intoxicated female drank at an off-campus party.

TCNJ EMS responded to the scene and assessed the student, deeming it necessary she be transported to the hospital

• On Monday, Nov. 14, at approximately 3:30 p.m., a Campus Police officer was dispatched to Travers Hall to speak with a residential director who wanted to document an incident that occurred on Saturday, Nov. 12. Upon the officer’s arrival, she met with the residential director and a freshman student. The student stated that early in the afternoon on Saturday, a male friend spoke to her about personal issues he was having. The female told the officer that at the time of her conversation with the male, he was under the influence of drugs, police said. According to reports, after the male and female had spoken, he went back to his room. From approximately 1 a.m. to 2 a.m., the student said she was playing video games in her room when she heard loud banging on a door in the hallway. She went to investigate the noise and started to hear yelling. She

then exited her room and noticed two of her floormates banging and kicking on the door of the male she spoke to earlier in the day. According to reports, she attempted to pull the two males away from the door and tell them that the other student was in the hospital. When she attempted to do so, however, she was struck in the left forearm and left side of her ribs from their kicking and hitting of the door. She realized that the two males were intoxicated and did not realize that they had hit her.

After more of their floormates stepped into the hallway, the two males eventually went back to their own rooms and went to bed, police said. The student advised the officer that she did not want to press charges against the males at that time, but just wanted to notify Residential Education and Housing of the incident incase another incident were to occur. According to police, the two males apologized to the female the next day and stated that they did not remember anything from the night prior. She was advised to contact Campus Police if anything changes or if she decided to sign a complaint against the males, police said.

• On Wednesday, Nov. 16, at approximately 11:15 a.m., two Campus Police officers were conducting fire drill room checks in Decker Hall with Prostaff and CAs. Pro-staff was notified by the CAs that they found a bong in a student’s room, police said. According to reports, the two officers responded to the room and met with the CAs who said they were conducting room checks and found three bongs sitting above the closet. The officers observed three plastic beverage bottles that were converted into homemade bongs sitting above a standing furniture closet, police said. One of the bottles was sitting in a red bowl filled halfway with water. According to reports, all three bottles were cut in half and had an open hole in the caps of the bottles. Officers secured the paraphernalia and brought them to Campus Police Headquarters. Officers photographed and bagged the paraphernalia as evidence, police said.

Anyone with information can contact Campus Police at 609-771-2345.

Habitat for Humanity of Trenton celebrates expansion November 30, 2016 The Signal page 3

Habitat for Humanity of Trenton partners with students at the College.

By Olympia Lagonikos Correspondent

Habitat for Humanity of Trenton has broadened its scope by setting out to build its first home in Ewing, N.J. On the morning of Monday, Nov. 14, the brief 25-minute ceremony, which consisted of three speeches and a traditional toss of dirt, signified the beginning of the Habitat for Humanity of Trenton expanding into other townships in Mercer County.

Christopher Warkala, board president of Habitat

tcnj.edu

for Humanity of Trenton, opened the ceremony off by speaking about the Trenton, N.J., branch’s inclusivity.

“The need for safe, affordable housing is very great in all of Mercer County,” Warkala said.

After finishing seven homes in Trenton, Habitat for Humanity seems ready to broaden its range.

“This is a new beginning,” Warkala said.

Sponsored by Bloomberg Philanthropies, Habitat for Humanity will build its first Ewing home on Robbins Avenue.

The four-bedroom, two-bath and 1,800-square-foot

house will be made for a family with disabled needs. The blueprints designate wider doorways and two bedrooms conjoined by a wheelchair-accessible bathroom.

Having been national partners of Habitat for Humanity since 1996, Bloomberg has sponsored 28 builds nationwide.

Bloomberg representative Dennis Jordan proudly said the company has “instilled the art of giving back into the community,” since Bloomberg employees collectively volunteered 86,000 hours nationally.

Mayor Bert H. Steinmann of Ewing Township gave a speech on the kind and welcoming citizens of Ewing and their collective goal to reach a better community.

Steinmann informed those in attendance that there are “26 community homes for the mentally disabled, handicapped and those in need (in Ewing).”

Through Habitat for Humanity’s presence in Ewing, many more opportunities to offer housing for those in need will arise.

The project, which is set to begin soon, is only the beginning — plans to build more houses in local areas are already in the works.

Since Habitat’s previous projects were confined to Trenton, the meeting hosted a bit of a buzz about the extension into other communities in Mercer County.

“This is the beginning of a long relationship,” Steinmann said.

College alumnus Gulu Brewer (’14), Community Outreach director of Habitat for Humanity of Trenton, positively reflected on the expansion into Ewing.

Brewer also emphasized the importance of student involvement and volunteer work in partnership with Habitat for Humanity.

The ceremonial tossing of the dirt was more than the beginning of the construction of a home. It was the start of helping Mercer County families in need.

Through Habitat’s diligence, the volunteers’ passion and community outreach, numerous Ewing families will soon be able to have a house they can call their own.

Hillel / Speaker opens up about surviving Holocaust

Ehrlich tells story to college audience for the first time continued from page 1 her family never expected the war to spread to Holland.

“Nobody saw it coming,” Ehrlich said.

“People thought it is happening to them, but it is not going to happen to us.”

Holland was a beautiful and pleasant home for the Ehrlich family until the Germans invaded in May 1940.

After a happy childhood in Holland, Ehrlich was shocked when she heard an antisemitic remark for the first time. Ehrlich had never felt ostracized for being Jewish before the war spread to Holland. She felt different — suddenly her dark brown hair now stood out from her blonde-haired peers.

Ehrlich, along with other Germans Jews in Holland, was separated from society.

They could no longer go to school, ride public transportation, visit the movies or go to parks.

“All of a sudden, the things that we all took for granted were not possible anymore,” she said. “Our everyday life disappeared.”

What stood out to Ehrlich was being forced to wear the Jewish star on her clothing. The star indicated “I am not like you, I am different,” she said.

The family’s troubles escalated when Ehrlich and her sister were ordered by the Nazis to report to a Jewish work camp. Ehrlich’s father, who served in the German army during WWI, had a mental picture of how bad things could become, and he prepared a hideaway for the family in The Hague, a city in the Netherlands.

As the family traveled to their hideaway, 16-year-old Ehrlich was scared for her life.

A particular moment stood out in her memory: When Ehrlich overheard a wife ask her husband what time he would be home for dinner, she felt envious.

“As young as I was, I remember thinking, ‘This lady is so lucky. She can worry about when to start the potatoes, while (my family and I) are fleeing for our lives,’” Ehrlich said.

When Ehrlich and her family arrived at the hideaway, little did they know, they would remain there for more than three years. She said life in hiding was horrible.

She spent her time searching for activities to keep busy. She read “Gone with the Wind,” studied the same chemistry textbooks and unraveled a sweater, only to knit it back together again, countless times.

While in hiding, Ehrlich tried to find a sense of purpose through her studies and her passion for chemistry.

“In retrospect, I do not know how I had the tenacity to study chemistry when I didn’t know whether or not I would be alive the next day,” she said.

By 1944, things became worse for the family as they approached their third year in hiding. The family had dwindling access to food. They ate raw sugar beets, despite the pain swallowing them brought, but the pain was better than not eating at all, according to Ehrlich. Finally, in May 1945, the family got news that World War II was over.

“It was amazing to be able to go outside,” Ehrlich said. “Even today, I love the fresh air. I have a passion to be outside and never be cooped up again.”

While Ehrlich was thankful to be free, she soon discovered that nearly 90 percent of her friends and family were killed in concentration camps during her three long years in hiding. When the pain of living in Holland became too great, Ehrlich and her sister decided to move to the United States in 1947.

In America, Ehrlich was driven to earn an education and find a career while her sister struggled to move on from the trauma.

Ehrlich usually shares her story at high schools and museums.

“My sister and I are very different people,” Ehrlich said. “She hung a heavy stone around her neck. The memories were just so bad for her. Throughout her life, she was hindered by what had happened.”

Following her move to America, Ehrlich got a job working for the U.S. Vitamin Corporation, got married, had two children and several grandchildren.

Today, Ehrlich tries to remain positive.

Despite her traumatic experience of World War II, she refuses to focus on the past.

“It is necessary to tell school children my story, but it is not necessary to dwell on it or talk about it all the time,” Ehrlich said. “My experiences have made me tougher than I would have been. I appreciate freedom to the utmost extent, and I acknowledge that growing up in the United States is wonderful.”

Ehrlich reminded students in the crowd how lucky they are to live in the U.S. For people a part of Hillel, they are reminded

Whyy.org

of their Jewish history and past.

According to the club’s website, Hillel at the College seeks to help the on-campus Jewish community maintain their Jewish identity before, during and after college.

Benjamin Zander, co-president of Hillel and a junior communications and journalism and professional writing double major, said it was important for students at the College to be a part of this event.

“There are only so many opportunities left to hear an eyewitness testimony from a Holocaust survivor,” Zander said.

Many wondered what will be the medium in which future generations will learn about the horrors of the Holocaust.

“The students here tonight had a special experience,” said Christopher Gwin, a volunteer at the Jewish Community Center.“The question is, ‘How will you carry this message forward to someone who will not meet a Holocaust survivor in their lifetime?’”

page 4 The Signal November 30, 2016

SFB funds events for spring semester November 30, 2016 The Signal page 5

By Olivia Rizzo Staff Writer

The Student Finance Board granted funding with caution as it took into account the $300,000 cut from the Student Activity Fee funding implemented this semester. According to a Signal article from May 2016, it was proposed that the $300,000 would be used to pay the salaries of four fulltime positions.

The College Union Board (CUB) and Student Government (SG) received $15,021.66 in funding for their event TCNJ Holiday: Winter Village.

“TCNJ Holiday is an event meant to provide students with a festive way to celebrate the holidays and relieve stress from final exams while staying on campus,” the proposal packet read.

This year’s event will have a winter village theme and feature an iceless ice rink and a craft fair. The event will take place on Tuesday, Dec. 6, in Alumni Grove.

CUB was funded $36,058 for its Welcome Back Concert. The event has been an annual tradition that typically features notable talent with a strong following that will appeal to a large number of students, according to the proposal packet.

The concert will be held on one of the first weekends in the spring semester at a currently undetermined date and time in Kendall Hall.

The organization also received $29,046 for its Welcome Back Comedy Show.

The comedy show is meant to celebrate the return of students to campus and the start of a new semester. In the past, CUB has hosted a Welcome Back Lecture, but switched to a comedy show in order to appeal to a wider variety of students and fit within budget constraints, according to the proposal packet.

The Welcome Back Comedy Show will be held at an undetermined date and time during the first two weeks of the spring semester on the Kendall Hall Main Stage.

The Class of 2019 presented its previously tabled Escape the Room class unity event. The second presentation was successful, as the event was fully funded for $3,488.55.

The event will take place on Friday, Dec. 2, at Amazing Escape Room in Princeton, N.J. All College Theatre was fully funded $2,500 for its spring production of “Stop Kiss.”

“The purpose of this event is to produce a full-length play with guidance and vision of a

CUB is allocated money for its annual Welcome Back Comedy Show. professional director in order for the membership of All College Theatre to learn more about productions and their inner workings,” the proposal packet read.

The event will take place from Wednesday, March 1, to Saturday, March 4, in the Don Evans Black Box Theater.

The Leadership Development Program was funded $4,152.39 for its annual Leadership LockUp event.

“Leadership Lock-Up offers TCNJ student leaders the opportunity to network with each other through presentations and

Catch Up or Get Ahead During 2016-17

WINTER SESSION

group activities,” the proposal packet read.

The event aims to provide relatable workshops alongside a professional perspective from keynote speaker Shinjni Das, who will teach students how to intersect their talents and passions to boost their self-esteem and personal drive.

The event will take place on Saturday, Jan. 21, in the Business Building Lounge.

Student United Way was fully funded $580.83 for its Animal Oxfam Hunger Banquet event.

“The Hunger Banquet is an

Kim Iannarone / Photo Editor

interactive event that raises awareness about the effects of world hunger and poverty. It provides participants to embody the lifestyles and experience some of the differences of living in different socioeconomic classes,” the proposal packet read.

The event will take place on Friday, Dec. 2, in room 212 of the Education Building.

Even though SFB agrees to finance certain events, there is no guarantee these events will take place. The approval only makes the funds available.

pen O w No n o i t tra s i g e R

at Mercer County Community College

For students seeking to complete a course in two weeks on campus or in five weeks online this winter, Mercer County Community College offers accelerated classes during its traditional mid-winter break.

Mercer’s 2016-17 Winter Session includes nearly 40 courses from across the college curriculum.

Choose from 2-week on-campus classes beginning January 3, or 5-week MercerOnline classes beginning December 19.

w w w. m c c c . e d u / w i n t e r

1966-2016

page 6 The Signal November 30, 2016

Nation & W rld

Pope extends policy to forgive abortion

The church still views abortion as a sin.

AP Photo

By Sarah Pawlowski Correspondent

The Roman Catholic Church has prolonged the life of a policy that allows priests to grant absolution for abortions, a Monday, Nov. 21, document from the Vatican revealed, according to The New York Times. The policy came about in the church’s Jubilee of Mercy that started this past year and is symbolic of Pope Francis’s efforts to make the Roman Catholic Church a more inclusive body, The New York Times reported.

This announcement does not change the church’s views

on abortion. As Vox stated, Francis and the church still consider abortion a “grave sin.” However, this willingness to forgive the act signifies a shift in the church’s prolife policies.

Under sacred law, absolution for abortion, which was viewed as a sinful act, was a right reserved for bishops, The New York Times reported. There was previously no widespread standard for granting absolution of abortion.

In some parishes, individuals faced excommunication and rejection, while others were granted forgiveness, according to The New York Times.

Abortion is considered by the Roman Catholic Church to be a “reserved sin,” meaning that permission to grant absolution usually must come directly from a bishop, according to The New York Times.

In certain countries, priests were allowed to grant absolution for abortion during certain occasions such as Lent, Archbishop Rino Fisichella said in a Monday, Nov. 21, press conference at the Vatican, The New York Times reported. Fisichella is the president of the Pontifical Council for Promoting New Evangelization, as reported in The New York Times.

The church’s jubilee year formally ended on Sunday, Nov. 20, according to The New York Times.

“There is no sin that God’s mercy cannot reach and wipe

away when it finds a repentant heart seeking to be reconciled with the Father,” Francis said of abortion in an apostolic letter from Monday, Nov. 21, The New York Times reported.

The Pope’s letter also encouraged the world’s 1.2 billion Catholics to “promote a culture of mercy based on the rediscovery of encounter with others, a culture in which no one looks at another with indifference or turns away from the suffering of our brothers and sisters,” according to The New York Times.

Francis is not the only pope to have granted priests the right to forgive abortion, The New York Times reported. The same news outlet reported that in 2000, Pope John Paul II granted clergy this right.

Over the course of his three years as head of the Roman Catholic Church, Francis has demonstrated a merciful and accepting attitude toward many, as reported by Vox. The same news outlet said the church’s leader has urged widespread acceptance of LGBTQ+ and divorced parishioners by church clergy.

According to The New York Times, in a church ceremony held on Saturday, Nov. 19, to elect 17 new cardinals to the Roman Catholic Church, Francis weighed in on the political atmosphere of hostility that has been present in world politics lately.

“In God’s heart there are no enemies,” Francis said.

Four officers shot in three states in 24 hours

By Brielle Bryan Staff Writer

On the morning of Sunday, Nov. 20, 20-year veteran of the San Antonio police department Benjamin Marconi was shot to death, according to NBC News. This was just one of four the shootings that took place within 24 hours.

Detective Marconi was writing a ticket for a traffic violation outside police headquarters in San Antonio when he was shot in the head, CBS reported. Otis Tyrone McKane, 31, was taken into custody on Monday, Nov. 21, for allegedly shooting Marconi, CNN reported. At 9:57 a.m. that same morning, McKane was issued a marriage license.

Police Chief William McManus said a SWAT team stopped McKane on Interstate 10 while he was riding with a woman and a 2-year-old, according to CNN. “Society not allowing me to see my son,” McKane said, according to CNN. “I lashed out at somebody who didn’t deserve it.”

Out of the four shootings that took place in 24 hours, two of them were believed to be targeted, CBS said. The death of Marconi was one of the two.

“I think the uniform was the target,” McManus said, according to Washington Post.

The second targeted shooting was in St. Louis, Missouri, where a 46-year-old police sergeant was hospitalized in critical condition, CBS reported. He was shot twice in the head during what Police Chief Sam Dotson called an “ambush” on Sunday night. The gunman was later killed when he shot at other officers who returned fire, Fox News reported.

“Fortunately for the blessing of God the officer’s going to survive,” Dotson said at a brief news conference after the shooting, according to CBS. The same news outlet added that Dotson wouldn’t reveal the sergeant’s name.

Two other police officers were shot on Sunday night, but it is unclear whether or not the shootings were targeted.

San Antonio honors fallen officer Marconi with a memorial.

An officer in Sanibel, Fla., was shot and injured when a person fired at the officer while he sat in his patrol car after finishing a traffic stop before 8 p.m. The suspect was taken into custody, according to The News-Press.

Another incident in Gladstone, Miss., left an officer with non-life-threatening injuries when he struggled with a man in his late teens that fled from a traffic stop, according to Fox News. The teen was killed after pulling out a

AP Photo

handgun during the struggle.

The four shootings on Sunday came less than five months after a gunman killed five officers in Dallas who were working a protest for the fatal police shootings of black men in Minnesota and Louisiana, Fox News reported.

Forty one out of 123 officer fatalities resulted from firearms in 2015, according to CNN. Marconi marks the 60th law enforcement officer who was shot and killed this year.

ISIS claims responsibility for Kabul mosque bombing

AP Photo

Afghan Municipality workers collect victims’ shoes.

By Zahra Memon Staff Writer

According to police reports, the bomber detonated his bomb toward the end of a prayer service Kabul, the capital of Afghani- in the Baqir-ul Ulom mosque of stan, was attacked by suicide Kabul, CNN reported. bombs, which killed 30 people “I was inside the mosque and and left more than 70 people in- the Mullah was reading the jured, according to CNN. prayer, suddenly a huge explosion

happened then everywhere was dark,” said Ewad Ali who sustained minor injuries, according to the Washington Times.

At first, it was believed that this attack was conducted by the Taliban members residing in Afghanistan and northern Pakistan.

However, Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid denied any connection to the attack, according to BBC. “We condemn this blast,” Mujahid said. “This act cannot be our work and has nothing to do with us.”

According to BBC, the Afghan government Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah said via Twitter, “This attack targeted innocent civilians—including children—in a holy place. It is a war crime and an act against Islam and humanity.”

ISIS took full responsibility for their actions. A statement was published in Amaq News Agency expressing that they are responsible for carrying out this suicide

bomb attack. The statement disclosed that this attack was aimed at a Shia gathering, however, information regarding the identity of the attacker was not mentioned, according to CNN. The Sunni terror group’s Afghan affiliate has attacked Shiites in the capital before. ISIS took responsibility in a statement that was posted to its official Amaq News Agency, stating one of its fighters had targeted a Shiite congregation hall, according to The Wall Street Journal.

Many representatives from Afghanistan began to speak out about this upsetting attack.

“This appalling attack on worshipers is an atrocity,” said Pernille Kardel, the United Nation Secretary-General’s deputy special representative for Afghanistan, according to CNN. “Religious and ethnic tolerance are values the Afghan people hold strong, and I urge the Afghan authorities to do everything possible to defend Afghans

of all faiths.”

Monday’s bombing was the third major attack targeting Hazara’s in Kabul since a blast in July that killed more than 80 people at a protest. It was one of the deadliest attacks to strike the city since the Taliban was ousted in 2001, The Wall Street Journal reported.

The Islamic State first emerged in east Afghanistan in late 2014, when foreign forces were withdrawing, according to The Wall Street Journal.

Over the past year, fighting with the Taliban has drastically decreased, and ISIS has changed its focus to carrying out high-profile attack in Kabul, according to The Wall Street Journal.

“We are very worried,” said Ahmad Behzed, a parliamentarian who is also a prominent member of a grassroots movement associated with the Hazaras, according to The Wall Street Journal. “This situation will further increase the violence in the country.”

November 30, 2016 The Signal page 7

Editorial

Students should be grateful for family and friends back home

With only two weeks to go until the end of the semester and finals looming around the corner, students at the College need to stop and take a second to truly appreciate their time at home.

From the home-cooked meals to quality time with loved ones you rarely get to see throughout the school year, it is so important to be grateful for every little moment because in the blink of an eye, these moments fade away.

Eickhoff Hall might serve up the best breakfast food this side of the Mississippi, but when it boils down to it, nothing compares to that the smell of bacon and eggs in the morning and your mom yelling “Rise and shine” on a holiday weekend. Even if your mom isn’t the Gordon Ramsay of chefs, nothing compares to home cooking, especially around the holidays.

Your college friends are great — they are some of the most diverse and interesting people you have ever met. However, going home and hanging out with the kids you grew up with will always be something special. Not seeing them for months at a time and finally being able to share stories from the past semester is something truly special.

As a senior shortly going into his last semester here at the College, I’ve realized that you really need to take advantage of every second of every day because before you know it, your college years will be up and you will be thrust into the real world.

Yes, this is a huge cliché, one that parents tell their kids almost on a daily basis, but when it comes down to it, it’s true. From the days spent wandering around Wolfe Hall with my freshmen year floormates to now having people over to my Campus Town apartment, each day has provided me something special that I will cherish for the rest of my life.

College can be exciting with the hustle and bustle of meeting new people, taking new classes and being proactive in the many extracurricular clubs offered at the College. Home is still where the heart is, though.

It’s important to treasure the moments you get at home, finally breathe, see your high school friends who are scattered across the U.S. at various schools, see your parents and enjoy the holidays.

Once you’ve been through four Thanksgiving breaks, you begin to realize that it is all coming to an end and graduation is looming around the corner.

This Thanksgiving, I was thankful for everything the College has offered me, as well as everything my parents gave me throughout my life.

School is fun, but nothing quite compares to being surrounded by loved ones, especially during the holidays.

- Craig Dietel Opinions Editor

Editorial Content Unsigned editorial opinions are those of the Editorial Board, which consists of the Editor-in-Chief, the Managing, News, Features, Arts & Entertainment, Opinions, Photo, Sports, Review and Social Media editors and the Business and Production managers, unless otherwise noted.

Opinions expressed in signed editorials and letters to the editor are those of the author and not necessarily those of The Signal.

Flickr.com

While students enjoy the company of their friends at the College, the holiday season is the best time to surround yourself with friends and family at home.

Quotes of the Week tcnjsignal.net Email: signal@tcnj.edu Telephone: Production Room (609) 771-2424 Business Office (609) 771-2499 Ad Email: signalad@tcnj.edu

Editorial Staff Sydney Shaw Editor-in-Chief shaws4@tcnj.edu Chelsea LoCascio Managing Editor locascc1@tcnj.edu Jessica Ganga Connor Smith News Editors gangaj1@tcnj.edu smithc57@tcnj.edu George Tatoris Miguel Gonzalez Sports Editors tatorig1@tcnj.edu gonzam23@tcnj.edu Elise Schoening Features Editor schoene1@tcnj.edu Sean Reis Arts & Entertainment Editor reiss2@tcnj.edu Craig Dietel Opinions Editor dietelc1@tcnj.edu Nicole DeStefano Nation & World Editor destefn1@tcnj.edu Thomas Infante Reviews Editor infantt1@tcnj.com

Mailing Address: The Signal c/o Forcina Hall The College of New Jersey P.O. Box 7718 Ewing, NJ 08628-0718 Alyssa Gautieri Production Manager gautiea3@tcnj.edu Jennifer Goetz Web Editor goetzj1@tcnj.edu Andrew Street Lizzie Zakaim Social Media Editors streeta1@tcnj.edu zakaime1@tcnj.edu Kim Iannarone Photo Editor iannark1@tcnj.edu Mia Ingui Managing Assistant inguim1@tcnj.edu Michelle Lampariello Features Assistant lamparm2@tcnj.edu Jake Mulick Opinions Assistant mulickj1@tcnj.edu

Emilie Lounsberry Adviser lounsber@tcnj.edu Ricky Zhao Business/Ad Manager zhaof1@tcnj.edu

“My experiences have made me tougher than I would have been.

I appreciate freedom to the utmost extent, and I acknowledge that growing up in the United States is wonderful.”

— Sybil Ehrlich, a 91-year-old Holocaust survivor

“They aren’t just pockets of minorities on campus. We have a presence and we are amazing people that do amazing things.”

— Henrietta Hanson, ’15 psychology alumna

“I realized that since puberty, I made my virginity the most interesting thing about myself. I was defining my worth, self-esteem and values around this thing that wasn’t really that interesting.”

— Kayla Termyna, vice executive chair of WILL and a senior deaf education and women’s, gender and sexuality studies double major

page 8 The Signal November 30, 2016

Friday, December 2

Brown Bag

Series

Prototyping Future Reality

Discover • Learn • Connect

Professor Naseem Choudhury, Psychology, (left) and Professor Jeremy Teigen, Political Science, (right) teach and mentor Ramapo College students.

Learn in small classes.

Succeed in big ways.

With an average class size of 23, and a student–faculty ratio of 18:1, Ramapo College offers students an individualized learning experience. Our students are able to build meaningful, close-working relationships with faculty members through mentorship, collaboration, and research opportunities.

Each year more than 700 transfer students enroll at Ramapo College, continuing their studies in one of over 36 undergraduate majors. Discover how we prepare our students for a lifetime of success.

Learn more at: www.ramapo.edu/transfer or 201-684-7300 505 Ramapo Valley Road, Mahwah, NJ

Ranked by U.S. News & World Report as one of the Best Regional Universities North category for public institutions.

Ranked as one of the “Best Bang-for-theBuck Colleges in the Northeast” by Washington Monthly.

Listed by Kiplinger’s as one of 100 Best Values in Public Colleges.

As a College of Distinction, Ramapo attracts and supports engaged students, great teaching, a vibrant community and successful outcomes.

November 30, 2016 The Signal page 9

Opinions

People are fed up over election controversy

By Michael Battista Initially, I wasn’t going to write this.

After the election, I held in my strong opinions since it would come off as one-sided and biased. However, more and more news outlets have recently come out with their reactions to the 2016 election. This has left me feeling so fed up that I need to say, “Enough is enough.”

Neither major political party took action to help after this year’s election and frankly, I’m worried about what the future holds.

On one side, we have the anti-Donald Trump protests that broke out around the country right after Trump’s win over Hillary Clinton on Tuesday, Nov. 8, going into the early morning of Wednesday, Nov. 9. Chants of “Not my President” and claims that “Hate and sexism won the election” filled not only the streets of many cities around the country, but on social media sites, as well.

Trump won fairly. He didn’t stage an armed takeover of the White House and he didn’t cheat to win — he won exactly how each and every other president of the United States has won.

While I understand the anger, this is the same exact thing Trump supporters would have done if he had lost, and several news outlets and people on social media were

critical of this in weeks before the election. Now, these people find themselves doing exactly what they criticized.

The world doesn’t stop simply because your candidate lost. You don’t need to cry in the street and make it seem as though you are actually going to die.

On his first show after the election, late night personality Conan O’Brien tried to reassure the country with a sincere yet comedic message.

“In the last few years, I’ve travelled to a bunch of countries, Cuba, Armenia, the Middle East, where the people would give anything — anything — to have our system,” O’Brien said. “In America, we get to pick who’s going to ruin our country.”

All joking aside, he is right.

We got to choose who would run this country and America chose Trump. We all need to respect that choice.

That’s not to say if he does something horrible we can’t criticize and try to get rid of him, but we can’t claim murder until someone is dead.

On the other hand, you have the Trump supporters and their new #BoycottHamilton movement circulating on Twitter. But, what does this accomplish?

Once again, we live in the U.S. and because of this, the cast of the Broadway musical “Hamilton” had the opportunity

to speak after their performance as Vice President-elect Michael Pence sat in the crowd.

Was it the right thing to do?

That’s subjective.

Was it appropriate? Once again, that’s subjective, but to the actors, it would make sense due to the fact that the play centers around Alexander Hamilton, an immigrant from the West Indies.

Then again, it could be argued that Pence didn’t deserved to be “attacked” in the theater as he sat with his family. If people want to use the term “safe space” in 2016, it works both ways and it can be argued that the theatre was his.

But in the end, yelling and complaining in the streets outside of the Richard Rodgers Theatre is not accomplishing anything and only gives off the message of not accepting others’ ideas.

The fact that Trump’s people are trying to say this “attack” on Pence was horrible and they shouldn’t have done it clearly shows that both sides just want to fight. That scares me — and also gives me hope that it will be easier for me to find a ticket to “Hamilton.”

Americans, you have the First Amendment to let people know how you feel, but that doesn’t mean you always should.

To the anti-Trump groups: While you may all have reasons — some very serious — about not liking Trump, you need to accept he is your president.

AP Photo

Trump defends Pence against ‘Hamilton’ stars via Twitter.

People have died for our ability, our right, to vote and the way it comes off by saying you don’t accept it seems like a slap in the face.

To the Trump supporters and those who are boycotting a Broadway show for the views of its performers: You need to accept not everyone shares your views.

This movement only seems to have the end goal of division, something our country just can’t afford to do right now.

So please, if you do take anything from this, please let it

be acceptance. Understand and don’t hate, and remember that we get the chance to live in a country with boundless opportunity many others don’t have.

During his show, O’Brien also quoted the great Winston Churchill. In a speech given at The House of Commons in November of 1947, Churchill said, “No one pretends that democracy is perfect or all-wise. Indeed, it has been said that democracy is the worst form of government except all those other forms that have been tried from time to time.”

Some aspects of on-campus life are annoying

By Connor Smith

In most cases, the College treats students living on campus well. The rooms are cozy enough, the food is passable and the campus usually looks splendid. That said, a few minor changes could go a long way toward improving the overall experience.

First off, why is every useful exit

alarmed? I understand the importance of keeping intruders out at night, but during the day? New Residence Hall, for example, has a quaint area that’s gated off from the back.

One would think that the doors could easily provide basic access, but no, they’re alarmed.

Some of these doors, like the ones by the T-Dubs entrance, don’t even go off. If the alarm takes some time to go off, then

Swipe access restrictions affect on- and off-campus residents.

tcnj.edu

there should be a sign that indicates the alarm is delayed. Why do I have to play a game of roulette every time I want to leave the damn building?

Speaking of T-Dubs, can we have a quick discussion about the cost of mac and cheese? A tiny bowl can cost as much as $15. Last time I checked, a scoop or two of noodles and cheese doesn’t cost the same on the open market as filet mignon.

The worst part is that this dish is actually pretty good. During freshman year, I was out of points by mid-November in large part due to the mac and cheese. I understand that points and dollar amounts have a conversion rate, but $15 for mac and cheese is criminal.

Another gripe I have is with the free mugs those with a Carte Blanche meal plan are provided. I don’t oppose free stuff, even if they’re really just taking it out of our overall cost. However, the “spill proof” label should be reconsidered. I’ve seen these bad boys tip over and pour out more than any other mug.

What’s worse is that they’re the only mugs approved for use in the Library. Do they want coffee and gatorade all over the

study tables? If this is the best we have in spill prevention, then maybe we need to go back to the drawing board.

Lastly, let’s talk about swipe access. Due to safety concerns, swipe access to residential buildings prior to 5 p.m. was revoked from everyone that doesn’t live in said building.

The point is to stop intruders, but they’re the ones who are not swiping into the building.

Why are we punishing people who play by the rules rather than the tailgaters who follow someone who swipes into the building? If I have a club meeting in the Cromwell Lounge, I should be able to go there during the day. I pay the same amount as they do to attend and live at the College.

Restricting our rights is not the way to handle safety. Why not improve surveillance and add cameras that can actually identify potentially intruders, rather than some blurry images that show some dude wearing green?

The fact that these concerns are the only ones I can think of, other than Sodexo as a whole, is probably a good thing. Many schools have it much worse, so I’m glad the College is nice enough that any real criticism is just nitpicking.

Policies The Signal is published weekly during the academic year and is financed by the Student Activities Fee (SAF) and advertising revenue. Any student may submit articles to The Signal. Publication of submitted articles is at the discretion of the editors.

The letters section is an open forum for opinions. Submissions that announce events or advertise in any way will not be printed. All letters should be sent via e-mail to signal@tcnj.edu. Handwritten letters should be sent to The Signal, c/o The Brower Student Center, The College of New Jersey, PO Box 7718 Ewing, N.J. 08628 or placed in our mailbox in the Student Life Office.

Letters must be received by the Friday before publication and should not exceed 300 words. The Signal reserves the right to edit letters for space and clarity. All letters must be signed, with a phone number and address of the author. Requests to withhold the author’s name will be honored only if there is a legitimate reason.

All materials submitted become the sole property of The Signal. The editors reserve the right to edit or withhold all articles, letters & photographs.

The Signal willingly corrects factual mistakes. If you think we have made an error, please contact The Signal at (609) 771-2424, write to the address listed above or e-mail us at signal@tcnj.edu.

page 10 The Signal November 30, 2016

November 30, 2016 The Signal page 11

Students share opinions around campus “Are you worried about America’s future?”

Craig Dietel / Opinions Editor

Namal Senevirante, a sophomore biology major.

“Yes, specifically environmentally because it is not something that you can fix overnight.”

Craig Dietel / Opinions Editor

Brandon Maier, a senior marketing major.

“Yes, because Donald Trump.”

“What annoys you most about on-campus living?”

Craig Dietel / Opinions Editor

Arielle Aponte, a junior computer science major.

“The walk from Townhouses South to Forcina.”

Craig Dietel / Opinions Editor

Niha Mamillapalli, a sophomore biology major.

“I don’t like that we do not have a lot of access to healthy foods.”

The Signal’s student cartoons of the week...

page 12 The Signal November 30, 2016

November 30, 2016 The Signal page 13

Fun Stuff

page 14 The Signal November 30, 2016

Arts & Entertainment

Modern Baseball bares all in campy set

Frontmen treat College to intimate acoustic CUB Alt show

Sydney Shaw / Editor-in-Chief

Left: Lukens plays at a show in Allentown, Pa., four days before his show at the College. Right: Ewald sings candidly about falling in love.

By Sydney Shaw Editor-in-Chief On Modern Baseball’s most recent record, Jacob Ewald talks a lot about hiding.

“Holt’s above my hideout,” he sings on “Note to Self.” As the song builds, he croons, “Wake up and we find new hiding places.”

On the next track, Ewald returns to the theme: “You need to hide, it’s in your framework.”

The final song of his half of the album is even titled “Hiding.” But at the College on Tuesday, Nov. 15, Ewald and Brendan Lukens did anything but.

Just one day after finishing a month-long tour with Brand New and The Front Bottoms, the duo bared all during an acoustic CUB Alt show that nearly pushed the Library Auditorium past its fire code limit.

“The Brand New tour was really weird because they’re a really big band, and when they play their show, it’s like a performance,” Lukens said. “But when Modern Baseball is playing the show, they’re trying not to trip over stuff.”

There was no chance of tripping on this night. Lukens and Ewald sat side-by-side and announced they would open with an extensive block from “Holy Ghost,” released in May. “These first two songs go together,” Ewald said of the album’s namesake track and “Wedding Singer.” “They’re a combination of thinking about my grandpa dying, and also falling in love.”

His confession prompted Lukens to launch into the opening guitar riff to “Slide” by The Goo Goo Dolls — the first of

many spontaneous renditions of song intros that evening, including Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway to Heaven” and “Possum Kingdom” by the Toadies. The audience ate it up every time.

Their audience appreciated the comic relief, though, like when Lukens prepared them for “Your Graduation.” The track is usually reserved for encores, but instead, after a minutes-long

“I was a super destructive person for a long period of my life... I used to drink a lot and I used to cut a lot and I used to behave very poorly to myself.”

-­Brendan Lukens, guitarist of Modern Baseball

During moments like these, Modern Baseball seemed more like a campy, two-man improv comedy troupe than a band famous for songs that tackle topics such as mental illness, romantic betrayal and death.

sentimental story of what the song is about, he made up a new one on the spot.

“Your graduation is today,” Lukens sang over the crowd’s wailing laughter. “I wish I could be there with you, but it’s also my

birthday, so I’m not coming.”

Ewald caught on quick. He plucked away a harmony on his guitar, his gentle “ooos” floating in the background. Lukens lost his composure before he made it to the second verse, but managed to include lyrics about resisting bedtime and his mom baking him a cake.

At the flip of a dime, though, the mood would fall somber.

“I was a super destructive person for a long period of my life,” Lukens said. “I used to drink a lot and I used to cut a lot and I used to behave very poorly to myself.

“My BFF” — he pointed to Ewald — “called my mom one day and let her know that I was under some stress, and that it had led to me almost committing suicide.”

Lukens talks about his struggles with mental illness in “Tripping in the Dark,” a 17-minute

Sydney Shaw / Editor-in-Chief

Ewald serenades students in the Library Auditorium during his acoustic set.

long documentary released in April that details Modern Baseball’s journey from playing basement shows in Philadelphia to headlining massive venues around the world.

“I really hunkered down on being the best person I can be and not letting my mental illness, which is bipolar disorder, contribute to me just being a shitty guy,” he said.

Lukens ended the emotional interlude by asking for song requests, which fired at the pair from all directions. After a few moments, Ewald put his hands up.

“Woah, woah, woah,” he said.

“Who asked what you wanted to hear?” They were back in comedy mode.

They settled on “Broken Cash Machine” off their second studio album, “You’re Gonna Miss It All.” Ewald said the track was originally named “Broken Couch Machine.”

“That week, I went to an ATM and my debit card got stuck in it, and I couldn’t have it back. So I changed the name to ‘Broken Cash Machine,’” Ewald said. “It makes more sense than ‘Broken Couch Machine.’ I was just trying to be edgy.”

Ewald said he wanted to slow the song down, and smiled earto-ear as he began strumming his guitar at half-speed.

Lukens spoke the first few lyrics in a deep voice, fitting for the severely sluggish version, and then keeled over laughing.

“What if they all, like, weren’t having fun at all?”

Ewald asked Lukens as he gestured to the audience.

Judging by the smiles on everyone’s faces, though, he didn’t have anything to worry about.

November 30, 2016 The Signal page 15

Sorority Noise unleashes raw emo rock sounds sleep, ’cause that’s what I’m used to,” Boucher sings on the latter, and on “Mediocre,” he meanders in his bedheaded voice: “Nobody likes me, that’s what I tell myself… I spent a lot of last year learning I don’t like me, too.”

This 180-degree turn reflects Boucher’s own day-to-day life.

“Some days, I can’t get up and get out of bed, and some days, I get up at 6 in the morning,” he said. “It’s hard to predict, and it’s hard to deal with life.”

“I have a life worth living, and I have a lot of things to get done in my life, so I continue to get up... and I just want everyone else to know you also have a life worth living.”

-­Cameron Boucher, frontman of Sorority Noise

Kimberly Ilkowski / Staff Photographer

Ackerman impresses the audience with guitar tricks during the set.

By Sydney Shaw Editor-in-Chief

Crowd surfers bumped along atop raised palms as hundreds of voices screamed, “So I called to apologize for every night I told you I didn’t wanna live my life.”

Adam Ackerman hoisted his guitar high above his head and shredded as Cameron Boucher led the second half of the chorus: “But I hung up before you could pick up ’cause I changed my mind.”

In that wild moment, one could be forgiven for forgetting they were still at the College.

Sorority Noise brought its fuzzy emo rock sounds to the Decker Social Space on Friday, Nov. 18, for the penultimate CUB Alt show of the fall semester.

The upstart Hartford, Conn.based band played half of its latest record, which is not quite self-pitying enough to be pigeonholed as emo, not quite angsty enough to call itself pop punk.

Somewhere in between, Sorority Noise channels its raw energy into mental health advocacy on “Joy, Departed.”

“If you’re dealing with any mental illness, don’t let people tell you to get over it. Tell those people to fuck themselves because they don’t really care about

you,” Boucher said.

His sentiments are echoed in the song “Mononokay,” as he sings, “Call me depressed, tell me to get over it. It’s not in my head, it’s in my blood.”

Boucher, who has manic depression, often incorporates imagery of darkness into his songs: Drugs, death and feelings of worthlessness are rampant across his lyrical catalog. Powerful playing and intense vocals make the tracks more fun than sad, though.

During “Blonde Hair, Black Lungs,” hearing hundreds of students scream “I’m so scared of dying alone that I’ll kill myself right here, right now” felt more like a buoyant celebration than a despairing promise.

The jovial mood was assisted

by Ackerman, whose boundless playing was accentuated by impressive guitar stunts. He thrashed around the stage all night long, his shaggy blonde hair flying out in all directions.

During the song “Art School Wannabe,” he jump-kicked as Boucher sang, “Maybe I’m just scared to admit that I might not be as dark as I think. Maybe I’m not the person that I never wanted to be.” Much of “Joy, Departed” hinges on this idea of recovery and regaining self-worth,

while 2014’s “Forgettable” was drenched in depression. Sorority Noise played some tracks from that debut, like “Mediocre at Best” and “Still Shrill.”

“Maybe I’ll drink myself to

On “Joy, Departed,” though, Sorority Noise emerges stronger, self-aware and ready to fight. The band’s continual growth is evident even within its sophomore effort. On “Art School Wannabe,” Boucher sings, “I know that I’m not worth your time.” Just two tracks later, he trashes that idea on “Using,” arguably the band’s most manic track, as he sings, “I know I’m more than worthy of your time.”

Boucher serenades students in the Decker Social Space.

But on “Using,” Boucher faces his demons — drugs, cigarettes and other vices — head on. The band yells together, “I stopped wishing I was dead!” in a hairraising surge of triumph. Their desire to live is overwhelming.

“I have a life worth living, and I have a lot of things to get done in my life, so I continue to get up,” Boucher told the audience. “And I just want everyone else to know you also have a life worth living.”

Kimberly Ilkowski / Staff Photographer

All That / Comedian gets up close and personal

Students get chance to meet star of ‘Good Burger’ skit continued from page 1

Kim Iannarone / Photo Editor

Nickelodeon

Left: Mitchell shows off his dance moves. Right. Mitchell said he and Thompson are still close friends.

bouncing up and down onstage or pulling out their phones to capture their moment with Mitchell on Snapchat.

The show ended with a question and answer segment, followed by a meetand-greet with Mitchell.

When asked if he has kept in contact with his old co-star, Kenan Thompson, Mitchell reassured students that they have remained close in the decade and a half since their television show, “Kenan and Kel,” ended.

“Me and Kenan hang out all the time,” Mitchell said. “That’s my home boy, and my wife and his wife are really good friends. Ain’t no ‘Good Burger’ beef.”

page 16 The Signal November 30, 2016

HURRY! THE POINT IS ALMOST SOLD OUT! Chances are with over 85% of the Point rented to students from the two major colleges in town, you’re going to know a lot of people here.

Fun Stuff

Come see why our fully furnished apartments that sleep up to four are easily the best deal in town.

Don’t ask us. Ask your friends. Chances are, they got The Point.

Call 609-301-4000 to see for yourself or visit OFFcampusNJ.com

...............................................

1573 Parkside Avenue at Spruce Street, Ewing Township Miles beyond expectations and minutes from campus...

Pet Friendly

Also Reserving

THAT’S

2017/2018

BY CAMPUS STUDENT LIVING

2017 Mayo Business Plan Competition Prizes:

$50,000!

TIMELINE Registration Due: November 30 Business Plan Session: December 7 Confirm Intent to Participate: January 2 Complete Business Plans Due: January 29 Semi-final Competition: March 8 Final Competition: April 5

OPEN TO: TCNJ students from all majors; teams comprised of 2-4 members ADVISORS PERMITTED: Small Business Development Center, Faculty, Alumni, & Business Mentors

I n v e s t I n Yo u r s e l f !

INFO: http://business.tcnj.edu/

November 30, 2016 The Signal page 17

Features

Black power celebrated in ‘Formation’

Left: The music video features several locations on campus. Right: ‘TCNJ Formation’ has approximately 1,700 online views.

By Kelly Corbett Staff Writer

Martin Luther King Jr. had a dream of African American advancement through gains in civil and economic rights. Fast forward to 2016, when racial unrest in American cities is headlining the news, the gender wage gap remains unresolved and the next president to step into the Oval Office is perceived by many as disrespectful to women and minorities.

Psychology alumna Henrietta Hanson (’15) had a dream of her own — to produce a music video that paid tribute to the black community at the College.

In a two-minute music video titled “TCNJ Formation,” Hanson brought this vision to life Queen B style.

Hanson’s project was inspired by Beyoncé’s hit music

video,“Formation.” Filming for Hanson’s video was done on the College’s campus in April. The editing process continued through the summer. The final video was uploaded to Vimeo and YouTube in September, but circulated on social media earlier this month.

“I honestly really wanted to convey a sense of unity and community of black women on TCNJ’s campus,” Hanson said. “I felt like we’re here, but people rarely see us all together.”

While Beyoncé’s version illustrated multiple themes, Hanson capitalized on the unity of black women at the College. She said she chose to feature women of various career paths in different locations on campus to depict the range of beauty in the black community.

“We’re different in many ways and the same in others. We’re human,” she said.

After tossing a couple of ideas around, Hanson said she “started calling and texting nearly every black girl on campus” to take part in the video.

Hanson, who works full-time as a teacher, recruited journalism alumna Raya Brashear-Evans (’16) to help with the filming process.

Featured in the video are alumni and current students from the College’s Black Student Union, Association of Students for Africa, Blackout Step Team, Association of Students for Africa’s Dance Team and the various African American sororities on campus — Alpha Kappa Alpha, Delta Sigma Theta and Zeta Phi Beta.

The women can be seen in the video by the College’s entrance sign, on the Library stairs, outside Green Hall, on the Science Complex’s fountain and even laying on top of Roscoe the Lion. Almost every spot

of the College campus is featured, illustrating that this is their campus.

“Formation” plays throughout the video. Some of the women featured can be spotted lip synching the lyrics. Donning all black clothing with their hands on their hips, these women demonstrate their fierce demeanor, strength and ferocity.

In the second half of the video, the talent brought out a splash of color through African headdresses, attire and sorority apparel. The end showed the ladies getting into formation by a wall of graffiti.

“TCNJ Formation” has approximately 1,700 views online.

The video has also aired on Philadelphia’s local TV channel 66 and Verizon channel 29 on Saturdays at 12:30 p.m. throughout the month of November.

Hanson said she respects Beyoncé and her work.

“I admire everything about her

Vimeo.com

— her art, her sense of normalcy and her black girl magic,” she said.

Hanson noted that Beyoncé also focuses on themes of police brutality and New Orleans culture in the “Formation” video.

“I think (Beyoncé) wanted to show that black people are amazing and magical, but we are most importantly real and human,” Hanson said. “We don’t deserve to get treated as threats.”

While Beyoncé’s version of the video raised a lot of controversy in early 2016, Hanson hopes that “TCNJ Formation” provides a more inclusive sense of unity among the College community.

Hanson also hinted at other upcoming projects.

“They aren’t just pockets of minorities on campus,” Hanson said. “We have a presence and we are amazing people that do amazing things.”

Virginity / Monologues challenge perceptions continued from page 1

The first slide contained the dictionary.com definition of virginity as “the state of being pure, fresh or unused.” The audience murmured and groaned. Is that really how virginity should be defined? Termyna thinks not.

“Virginity does not have a consistent definition,” Termyna said. “So where does it come from? It comes from men because they think their penises are important.

Sorry, men.”

Termyna took a seat in the black chair center stage and spoke candidly to those in the crowded auditorium.

“I entered college and my environment totally changed,” Termyna said. “Everyone was more (sexually) experienced than I was as I entered this mating ground of TCNJ. But then I realized that since puberty, I made my virginity the most interesting thing about myself. I was defining my worth, self-esteem and values around this thing that wasn’t really that interesting.”

Since then, Termyna has learned that there is no concrete definition of “virginity.”

“The concept of virginity is a social one,” Termyna said. “We created it without defining it, and we can’t really explain how it works. Virginity cannot and does not exist because it exists in too many ways. So maybe virginity wasn’t meant to be a definition, but a dialogue.”

Kim Iannarone / Photo Editor

Garrity shares her story with those gathered in the Library Auditorium.

Next to take the stage was Brianna Dioses, a senior early childhood urban education and WGS double major.

“I grew up with this notion that sex is something to be a little afraid of, and then I got to college, and I’m a WGS major, and I’m like, ‘Oh no… we’re going to talk about it,’” Dioses said.

Dioses went on to describe the first time she had sex.

“I lost my virginity for the first time on Saturday,” Dioses said. “By the way, when you have two virgins who don’t know what they’re doing, it’s really a hot mess.”

One audience member called out and

asked if she felt any different having now lost her virginity. Dioses answered with a resounding “no.”

Sophomore psychology major Gigi Garrity spoke next. “‘I’m going to talk about how I lost my virginity,” Garrity said. “It was on my 17th birthday. I was naked and I was crying.”

Garrity said her boyfriend of the time coerced her into performing sexual acts and threatened to end their relationship if she didn’t do them. Garrity stressed to the audience the importance of comfort and communication between partners.

“I was doing something I didn’t want to

do because I loved him, and my discomfort would make him happy,” Garrity said.

“Figure yourself out. Look in a mirror. Do things that you want, and don’t sacrifice your comfort for someone else. I’d say fuck ’em, but don’t.”

Last up was senior psychology and WGS double major Olivia Laura.

Laura told the audience about her seventh-grade science teacher, who provided a misguided example of what it means to lose your virginity.

“My teacher used the ‘broken toy’ analogy,” Laura said. “He said to us, ‘Everyone is like a toy in a box on a shelf.

On your wedding day, you present yourself to your spouse. If you have sex before your wedding day, it’s like someone took you out of your box, played with you and broke you.’”

While Laura said some of her peers may have taken the message to heart, she certainly did not.

“First of all, I am not a fucking object. I am a person,” Laura said. “I’m also not a gift for anyone. I am my own person and I am not broken.”

Laura ended her monologue with a mantra, which the audience repeated back to her.

“I am a person, not an object. I am whole, not broken. I know what’s best for me. I am who I am, and no one can take that away.”

page 18 The Signal November 30, 2016

Statement of Solidarity at The College of New Jersey 18 November 2016 Since the November /, 1234 presiden8al elec8on, there have been widespread incidents on college campuses across the country of students being the targets of verbal and physical violence because of their race, gender, ethnicity, religion, sexual orienta8on, and intersec8ons of these. The College of New Jersey campus has not been immune to this. There are members of our community, including some of the undersigned, who are frightened by the elec8on’s outcome, worried about what the future holds in store, and unsure whether TCNJ values and protects all those in our community who are impacted. No one at TCNJ should have to feel such fear.

In a year where our campus theme is GToward Just and Sustainable Communi8es,H we seek to allay as much as we can the legi8mate concerns of our fellow community members. As a public ins8tu8on, TCNJ strives to embody a willingness to reach out in solidarity to those struggling for jus8ce, which is to say, eLuity in places of power and privilege. Our own mission statement affirms our belief in Gthe transforma8ve power of educa8on to develop cri8cal thinkers, responsible ci8zens, and lifelong learners and leadersH that Gsustain and enhance their communi8es.H Our mission explicitly rePects core values that deQne this community in terms of Gpeople with diverse backgrounds, perspec8ves, and abili8es.H

We state publicly and uneLuivocally our support for all students, faculty, and staff who feel vulnerable in light of the elec8on results, and affirm the right of members of our community to publicly voice those concerns in civil discourse and disobedience. This includes, but is not limited toT Black, Na8ve, La8nx, Asian, and all people of color, Muslims, Jews, those of minority religious tradi8ons as well as the non-­‐religious, LGBTQ individuals, women and all gender minori8es-­‐-­‐especially survivors of sexual harassment and assault, those with disabili8es or those who are neurodiverse, immigrants-­‐-­‐documented or not-­‐-­‐and people from poor and working class backgrounds, among other impacted communi8es.

We, the undersigned, include individuals in one or more of the intersec8ng communi8es men8oned above who viscerally feel the fear of our current socio-­‐poli8cal and economic context. Among us there are also empathe8c allies who stand in solidarity with all those impacted in our community and commit to leveraging our privileges and access to resources in the service of the most marginalized and oppressed.

We offer our offices and classrooms as safe spaces for you to learn, work, and give voice to your thoughts and concerns. We pledge to stand by you in the face of hateful, racist, sexist, homophobic, xenophobic, and na8onalist rhetoric. We promise to be your advocates and protectors on this campus. We commit to working every day to make TCNJ a place which always strives to more fully prac8ce the values our mission statement is designed to rePectT excellence, engagement, integrity, inclusiveness, and self-­‐rePec8on.

Thanks to our faculty and staff colleagues at St Norbert College, who wrote the original Statement of Solidary and allowed us to adapt it to TCNJ. In solidarity, Heba Abourahma, Chemistry Rachel H. Adler, Sociology & Anthropology Hue-­‐Sun Ahn, Counseling and Psychological Services John Allison, Chemistry Anita Allyn, Art & Art History Madeline Anthes, Psychology Mekala Audain, History Chris Ault, Interac8ve Mul8media Joseph Baker, Chemistry Elizabeth Bapasola, Student Affairs Erin Barnard, Admissions Jessica Barnack-­‐Tavlaris, Psychology Diane C. Bates, Sociology & Anthropology Joanne Bateup, Center for Global Engagement Jared S. Beatrice, Sociology & Anthropology James E. R. Beyers, Elementary and Early Childhood Educa8on David Blake, English Ashley Borders, Psychology Elizabeth Borland, Sociology & Anthropology Lynn Bradley, Chemistry Jodi Brodsky, Sociology and Anthropology Winnifred R. Brown-­‐Glaude, African American Studies and Sociology & Anthropology Michelle Bunagan, Chemistry Greer Burroughs, Elementary & Early Childhood Educa8on Heather Camp, Center for Community Engaged Learning & Research Jo Carney, English Department Stuart Carroll, Elementary and Early Childhood Educa8on William Carter, History Maahew Cathell, Technological Studies Marion Cavallaro, Counselor Educa8on Benny Chan, Chemistry Sarah Chartock, Poli8cal Science Shelley Chopp, Admissions Office -­‐ TCNJ He Len Chung, Psychology Karen Clark, Mathema8cs and Sta8s8cs Wendy Clement, Biology Andrew Clifford, Mathema8cs and Sta8s8cs Deborah Compte, World Languages and Cultures Maureen Connolly, Educa8onal Administra8on and Secondary Educa8on Kilpatry Cuesta, Educa8onal Opportunity Fund (EOF) Cynthia Cur8s, Mathema8cs and Sta8s8cs Jason Dahling, Psychology Karen Deaver, Wri8ng Program Victor Deihl, CELR Tabitha Dell’Angelo, grban Educa8on Daniel Domen, Computer Science Sarah Domire, Special Educa8on, Language, and Literacy Mark Edwards, Liberal Learning & Technological Studies Kathy Ertel, Counseling and Psychological Services Carol Evangelisto, Counseling and Psychological Services Courtney Faber, Technological Studies Winnie Faaon, Sustainability Ins8tute at TCNJ Alvin J. Figueroa, World Languages and Cultures Manuel Alejandro Figueroa, Technological Studies Candice Feiring, Psychology Joshua Fishburn, Interac8ve Mul8media Christopher Fisher, History Mark Foreset, Counseling and Psychological Services

Leigh-­‐Anne Francis, African American Studies and Women’s Gender, and Sexuality Studies Luis Gabriel-­‐Stheeman, World Languages and Cultures J. Lynn Gazley, Sociology & Anthropology Jana Gevertz, Mathema8cs and Sta8s8cs James A. Graham, Psychology Jean Graham, English Janet Gray, Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Lisa Grimm, Psychology Jo-­‐Ann Gross, History Danielle Guarracino, Chemistry Belinda Haikes, Art & Art History Joanna Herres, Psychology Blythe Hinitz, Elementary and Early Childhood Educa8on Donald Hirsh, Chemistry Craig Hollander, History Julie Milligan Hughes, Psychology Mary Lynn W Hopps,Women In Learning and Leadership (WILL) program/WGSS Yifeng Hu, Communica8on Studies Tanner Huffman, Technological Studies Marimar Huguet-­‐Jerez, World Languages and Cultures David Hunt, Chemistry Deborah Huaon, Art & Art History Mohamoud M. Ismail, Sociology & Anthropology Monica F. Jacobe, Center for American Language & Culture Cassandra Jackson, English Marla L. Jaksch, Women’s Gender, and Sexuality Studies Lorna Johnson-­‐Frizell Communica8on Studies Ar8 Joshi, Elementary & Early Childhood Katherine Kahn, CELR Richard Kamber, Philosophy Kenneth Kaplowitz, Art and Art History Isabel Kentengian, World Languages and Cultures Chu Kim-­‐Prieto, Psychology Jean P. Kirnan, Psychology Deborah Knox, Computer Science John Landreau, Women’s and Gender Studies Lisa Lauria, History/Anthropology Livia Lazzaro, Communica8on Studies Rebecca S.K. Li, Sociology & Anthropology Robbin Loonan, Counseling and Psychological Services Karina Lopez, Bonner Ins8tute Kyle LoPinto, Art & Art History Amy LoPrinzi, Center for Community Engaged Learning & Research Lauren Madden, Elementary & Early Childhood Educa8on Nathan Magee, Physics Kasey March, Health and Wellness John Louis Marshall III, Educa8onal Opportunity Fund Program Margaret Mar8nej, Psychology Janet Mazur, Wri8ng Program Melanie McDermoa, Sustainability Ins8tute Rob McGreevey, History Mindi McMann, English Emily S. Meixner, English Maahew Middleton, gndergraduate Admissions Regina Morin, World Languages and Cultures Amy L. Moyer, Center for American Language & Culture Teresa Marrin Nakra, Music & Interac8ve Mul8media Amanda Norvell, Biology Megan Nicholson, Bonner Ins8tute

Abby O’Connor, Chemistry Susan O’Connor, TCNJ Center for the Arts Tony O’Donnell, Sustainability Ins8tute at TCNJ/Adjunct Faculty, School of Business Lisa Or8z-­‐Vilarelle, English Agus8n Otero, World Languages and Cultures Cynthia Paces, History Dimitris Papamichail, Computer Science Kim Pearson, Journalism and Professional Wri8ng John C. Pollock, Communica8on Studies Monisha Pulimood, Computer Science Kim L. Quick, Educa8onal Opportunity Fund (EOF) Lee Ann Riccardi, Art & Art History, and the Center for Global Engagement, Nina Ringer, Wri8ng Program Michael Robertson, English Angelica Rocco, Admissions Nelson M. Rodriguez, Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Rosa Rodriguez, Journalism and Professional Wri8ng Stuart Roe, Counselor Educa8on Suzanne Roth, Dean’s Office, School of Engineering Jeremy Russell, Mathema8cs and Sta8s8cs Mark F. Russo, Computer Science Susan Ryan, Communica8on Studies Andrea Salgian, Computer Science Antonino Scarpa8, Nursing, Health, and Exercise Science Pamela Schmierer, Chemistry Steve Schierloh, TCNJ Interna8onal Recruitment Jill Schwarz, Counselor Educa8on Jennie Sekanics, Admissions Stephanie Sen, Chemistry Atsuko Seto, Counselor Educa8on Miriam Shakow, Sociology & Anthropology Lauren Shallish, Special Educa8on Qin Shao, History Department Adams Sibley, Center for Community Engaged Learning & Research Lauren Skowronski, Sustainability Ins8tute Bill Sowder, English Jennifer Sparks, TCNJ Clinic Aimee Stahl, Psychology Felicia Jean Steele, English Diane Vanner Steinberg, English Glenn A. Steinberg, English Liselot van der Heijden, Art & Art History Suriza van der Sandt, Mathema8cs and Sta8s8cs Jeanine Vivona, Psychology Laurel Wanat, Mathema8cs and Sta8s8cs Tiffani Warren, Educa8onal Opportunity Fund (EOF) Program Chelsea Watson, Student Health Services Shaun Wiley, Psychology Mark S. Woodford, Counselor Educa8on Gary C. Woodward, Communica8on Studies Simona Wright, World Languages and Cultures Ann Delphine Zsilavetz, Computer Science

November 30, 2016 The Signal page 19

: Dec. ‘05

Campus Style

Student scores second in ‘Jeopardy’

there, especially on jeans and boots.

JG: What type of outfit do you feel most comfortable in?

LY: I feel comfortable in cute jeans, a cozy sweater, riding boots and a statement necklace. I like to have a few basic outfits that I can switch up with accessories and shoes if I’m ever running late, but still want to look put together.

Elise Schoening / Features Editor

Student of the College gets 15 minutes of fame on ‘Jeopardy.’

Every week, Features Editor Elise Schoening hits the archives and finds old Signals that relate to current College topics and top stories.

People across the nation cleared their schedules to binge watch the revival of “Gilmore Girls” this weekend. Many students of the College may have grown up watching the show from the comfort of their homes, but few may have imagined seeing themselves on the big screen one day. Yet in 2005, one student made it onto “Jeopardy” and finished the televised game show in second place.

All little children have big dreams — they want to be ballerinas, doctors, firefighters, or United States presidents. But Liz Lackey, senior education/music major, had different plans — she wanted to be a “Jeopardy” contestant.

The popular television game show, which features host Alex Trebek and airs on ABC, has fascinated Lackey for as long as she can remember.

Last Wednesday, Lackey’s dream came true when a show taped in early September aired and she took second place in the evening’s competition.

The process began when Lackey signed up for a tryout taking place in April in New York City while visiting Jeopardy’s Web site.

At the audition, each of the participants was required to take a 50-question test that

covered 50 different categories. Upon completion, the test was graded immediately and those who had passed were notified.

“They never tell anyone what their score was,” Lackey said. “So if you fail the test, you can tell everyone that you missed it by one point. Out of about 70 people in my audience, only six passed, including me.”

Since she had passed the test, Lackey was asked to stay to play a mock version of the game and be interviewed. Even then, though, Lackey’s chances of actually being picked to appear weren’t a sure thing.

Finally, in August, Lackey did receive a phone call. A day later, a FedEx package arrived with a contract, forms to fill out and instructions on what she should wear.

Despite a bout of nerves, Lackey stacked up quite well against her competitors. She ended up taking second place, with the defending champion taking first.

And of course, win or lose, Lackey did get the chance to meet host and game show icon Trebek.

“During a commercial break, he started talking to me in an Irish accent,” she said. “I think the red hair and freckles gave him an idea. He also has a very firm handshake. He almost crushed my hand.”

Photo courtesy of Jillian Greene

Yulich keeps warm in a trendy sweater and plaid scarf.

By Jillian Greene Columnist

Name: Lexy Yulich Year: Sophomore Majors: English and political science

JG: What is your favorite fashion trend right now?

LY: I love dressing for fall. I usually stick to sweaters or flannels paired with boots, but when I want to change up my look for a more edgy one, I like to wear black, ripped jeans, Adidas sneakers and a long cardigan or sweater.

JG: What is your least favorite trend?

LY: My least favorite trend are turtleneck or cowl-neck sweaters. On the right person they look adorable, but because I’m so short, I feel like it’s too much for my body type.

JG: What are you wearing today?

LY: Today, I’m wearing an oversized white sweater, ripped jeans, brown booties and a long, plaid scarf.

JG: Where do you get most of your fashion inspiration?

LY: I get most of my inspiration from other people around campus. I also look at magazines, fashion bloggers’ Instagrams and even store windows.

JG: What are your favorite places to shop at?

LY: I mostly shop at J.Crew, Banana Republic, Forever 21, Free People, Nordstrom Rack and Zara. Lately, I’ve been shopping at Marshalls and T.J. Maxx, too. It’s easy to score a good deal

Twitter.com

Yulich draws her fashion inspiration from magazines and blogs.

: Thankful for ‘Gilmore Girls’

‘Gilmore Girls’ returns for a four-part revival.

By Mackenzie Cutruzzula Columnist

While I still have not come to terms with the last four words in “Gilmore Girls: A Year in The Life,” there won’t be any major spoilers in this article. The ladies of Stars Hollow came, saw and conquered in the Netflix revival that was released on Friday, Nov. 25. Fans were treated to old faces like Kirk, who now owns a pig, and Gypsy, who fans may have noticed doubled as Emily’s latest maid, Berta. The four-part series ended

Twitter.com

on a cliff-hanger that left fans dying for more. The show’s creator, Amy Sherman-Palladino, kept her cool when asked about further episodes.

“We really had a very specific journey in our minds and we fulfilled the journey,” Sherman-Palladino told Hollywood Reporter. “So to us, this is the piece that we wanted to do. And the whole thought about is there more, is there more, is there more — this has to go out into the universe now. We’ve got to put this to bed. And then whatever happens, happens.”

What creator Sherman-Palladino

doesn’t realize is that we can’t just leave this up to the universe — I have questions that demand answers. Mostly, I just need to know what Rory’s future holds because like the younger Gilmore, many millennials are struggling to find the life path they want to take.

Scott Patterson, who plays everyone’s favorite diner owner, Luke, said he enjoyed the experience so much that he wouldn’t mind doing a revival every year. I think all “Gilmore Girls” fans are in agreement that a revival every year would be best for all parties.

Overall, the revival made me laugh and cry. But now that it is over, I can finally start getting back to my daily life.

Kanye West has been struggling to maintain his own daily routine.

After a public meltdown and the cancellation of his Life of Pablo tour, West checked himself into the hospital. West was admitted for exhaustion and dehydration. Over the Thanksgiving holiday, his wife Kim Kardashian-West refused to leave her husband’s side. She has been sleeping at the hospital and even feeding Kanye. The only time

she leaves his side is to be with the couple’s two kids, North and Saint.

Laurie Hernandez added another shiny trophy to her already impressive medal count when she won “Dancing with the Stars” on Tuesday, Nov. 22. While it has not been confirmed if Hernandez brought the trophy to Thanksgiving, her reaction to winning was certainly something for which we should all be thankful.

“I just want to thank everyone for their support and riding along this crazy roller coaster of my life,” Hernandez said. “And, my goal is

just to inspire others as I go on with my journey, and thanks for being there for me.”

The Victoria’s Secret Angels headed off to Paris this week to film their famous fashion show.

Kendall Jenner and Bella Hadid joined veterans Lily Aldridge and Alessandra Ambrosio for the plane ride. Angel Behati Prinsloo won’t be participating this year, as she recently gave birth, but she guaranteed that she will be back on the runway next year. That is the kind of motivation we all need to make it to the end of the semester.

Twitter.com

Hernandez celebrates her ‘Dancing with the Stars’ win.

76933 page 20 The Signal November 30, 2016

GET TREATED LIKE THE MILLION BUCKS YOU MIGHT NOT HAVE. Because our focus is on you, not shareholders, you can get personal support whether you have $500 or $5 million. Start now at TIAA.org/advice

INVESTING

ADVICE

BANKING

RETIREMENT

BUILT TO PERFORM. CREATED TO SERVE. TIAA-CREF Individual & Institutional Services, LLC. TIAA-CREF products are subject to market and other risk factors. C32773

November 30, 2016 The Signal page 21

Diwali Dinner offers a taste of India Students celebrate the festival of lights

By Shree Nadkarni Staff Writer

Traditional Indian music and food, such as Gulab Jamun dessert, samosas pastries and naan bread, stole the show at the Indian Student Association’s (ISA) celebration of Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights.

“The Diwali Dinner is a great way for students of all cultures to take part in the heritage that they have grown up with,” said Ankit Parikh, treasurer of ISA and a junior marketing major.

“It also fosters a sense of multiculturalism and diversity on the TCNJ campus.”

ISA members served hearty helpings of Indian food all night long on Tuesday, Nov. 15, in the Business Building Lounge.

Attendees were encouraged to take second and third helpings at the event.

“It was a great way to end a stressful day,” said Sanjana Saksena, a sophomore biology major. “When you finish an exam

Elise Schoening / Features Editor

The Business Building Lounge fills with students for the Diwali Dinner. and come to see home-cooked food, it makes you glad to be a part of ISA.” In addition to the dinner options, the event also featured

a photo booth for students to commemorate the Indian holiday. Before taking their photos, students could choose from a variety of signs, including “I

got 99 problems but a Rishta ain’t one” and “I just came for the paneer.”

Freshman biology major Jasmine Mahajan said the Diwali

Dinner was an opportunity for many students at the College to appreciate the Indian heritage and values with which they were raised.

“This was just another way that I reconcile my heritage with my status as an Indian-American in the U.S.,” Mahajan said.

“It’s great to see cultural organizations host events like this because it makes everyone feel at home and underscores the diversity that TCNJ offers.”

Other students at the Diwali Dinner echoed similar sentiments. Sophomore biology major Lovejot Singh said ISA and events such as the Diwali Dinner have made him feel at home at the College.

“The Diwali Dinner and the friends that I’ve made at TCNJ are worth it,” Singh said. “In my heritage, I’ve found people who share the same values as me and through the myriad (of) cultural groups at TCNJ, I hope to meet other cultures who do the same.”

College gathers for night of tea and talent

Left: Students line up for Chinese cuisine and tea. Right: Performance groups showcase their skills during Teahouse.

By Ashton Leber Staff Writer The Chinese Students Association (CSA) hosted its annual Teahouse event in the T/W Lounge on Friday, Nov. 19, to celebrate Chinese heritage.

The event offered a taste of Chinese cuisine and tea, along with a variety of performances scheduled throughout the night.

The ambiance and lights set the mood for a relaxing evening and a night of fun and laughter amongst friends.

Hubert Hsu, president of CSA and a junior nursing major, said the purpose of the Teahouse is to

bring the community together for a lighthearted evening of entertainment and refreshments.

“It’s to have a night of performances from the community while serving tea,” Hsu said. “It’s basically to relax.”

With more than 100 people in attendance last year, Hsu said he expected more than 150 people this year. Hsu was not disappointed — a steady crowd streamed into the event. Soon, the lounge was overflowing with students.

Senior biology major Zachary Lo was the first performer of the night. In his opening act, Lo performed “Ho Hey” by The Lumineers and “Prettiest Friend” by

Jason Mraz.

“I wanted to perform because this is an event that’s really close to my heart,” Lo said.

Lo has been involved in CSA since the organization began four years ago. He decided to perform this year as a way of giving back to the organization.

Lo said he also got involved to show other students what the Teahouse event was truly about.

“It’s to spread Chinese culture,” Lo said. “The purpose was to get people acclimated with Chinese food and teas. We wanted people to get a taste of that.”

During intermission, students formed lengthy lines for a taste of

Chinese cuisine, and many went back for seconds.

Katlyn Leong, a member of CSA and a sophomore psychology major, said she was excited to see the performances at this year’s event.

“I thought it would be fun and entertaining, especially to see the talent of the other people,” Leong said. “I look forward to watching the CSA Dragonflies.”

The CSA Dragonflies is a group of student dancers who exemplify traditional Chinese dancing. Following their act, the evening continued with a variety of performances from dancers, singers and martial artists.

Meagan McDowell / Staff Photographer

The event was made possible by several cosponsors, including TCNJ Asian American Association, TCNJ Barkada, TCNJ Japanese Students Association, TCNJ Korean Student Association and TCNJ Dining Services.

The Teahouse event allowed CSA to showcase Chinese culture to the greater College community. Members of CSA said they are always open to new students, whether they are of Chinese descent or are simply looking to become familiar with the culture.

“I would advise students to get involved by coming to meetings and seeing what CSA is all about,” Leong said.

page 22 The Signal November 30, 2016

Want to be on the other side of this paper?

WE HAVE A NUMBER OF POSITIONS AVAILABLE!

We’re looking for: Writers—Be the one who brings the story to the campus.

Photographers—Capture the events and bring the story to life.

Assistants—Join our staff and help make this paper happen.

Contact us: signal@tcnj.edu Located in room 204 in Forcina Hall Meetings every Sunday at 5:30 p.m.

November 30, 2016 The Signal page 23

Sports

Lions feast on competition during Thanksgiving break

By George Tatoris Sports Editor

The College’s swimming and diving teams had more to digest than turkey and stuffing over Thanksgiving break.

The Lions withstood a grueling dual meet against the New York University (NYU) Violets the previous Saturday, Nov. 19. While the women’s team were routed, 223-71, by the eighth-ranked Violets, the men’s team slipped past them in the final event of the meet for a 151-143 victory.

The 12th-ranked men’s Lions were barely ahead, 140-137, when senior Scott Vitabile, sophomore Alex Skoog and seniors Ryan Gajdzsiz and Andrew Nesbitt readied themselves for the 400-yard freestyle relay. Whichever quartet finished first would be given 11 points, and the overall win. It was a similar scene to last year’s NYU meet, which the Lions lost, 151-147.

In that 400-free relay, the Violets wormed ahead by mere milliseconds. This year, things went differently. Vitabile, Skoog, Gajdzsiz and Nesbitt skated by with a time of 3:05.90 — four seconds more than the Violets A team — giving the Lions the win.

“It was one of the most exciting meets I’ve experienced during my 29 years at TCNJ,” said men’s team head coach Brian Bishop. “I was very impressed with the energy that the team displayed throughout the entire contest. Winning it in the last relay was a fitting end to an awesome meet.”

The Lions got ahead early in the first two events. In the 200-yard medley relay, junior Adam Coppola, Nesbitt, Skoog and

Gajdzisz claims victory in the 500-free relay.

Gajdzsiz took first with a time of 1:34.38.

Soon after, freshman Harrison Yi and junior Logan Barnes put the Lions further ahead with a tandem finish — Yi took first with 9:56.98 and Barnes followed second two minutes later with 9:58.55.

Vitabile, Gajdzsiz and freshman David Madigan furthered the Lions lead in the 200-yard freestyle race. Vitabile touched the wall first at 1:43.03. Not a second passed before teammate Gajdzsiz finished with a time of 1:43.42. Madigan took

Photo courtesy of Sports Information Desk

third with a time of 1:46.18. According to Bishop, Vitabile helped elevate the team.

“Team captain Scott Vitabile had a tremendous day and demonstrated his leadership throughout the entire competition,” Bishop said.

The Violets were able to reduce the deficit in the 100-back and 100-breast, but the Lions continued to put out strong performances. Sophomore Samuel Maquet dominated the 200-yard butterfly with a time of 1:55.35. The men continued to dominate

the freestyle, as well.

Coppola took top honors in the 50-free with a time of 21.64, Vitabile took first in the 100-free with a time of 46.61 and Gajdzsiz and Yi placed one-two in the 500-free with times of 4:46.76 and 4:47.49, respectively.

“Yi had another outstanding meet and I expect more great things from him for the rest of this season and beyond,” Bishop said.

Despite its loss, the women’s team had a number of highlights.

Like the men’s team, the Lions did well in the 500-free. Sophomore Gabi Denicola and juniors Marta Lawler and Debbie Meskin swept the race for the ladies, with respective times of 5:29.66, 5:40.10 and 5:45.32.

Senior Brenna Strollo provided the Lions with four points in the 100-yard backstroke and juniors Ali Huber and Cassidy Bergeron finished in tandem, taking the second- and third-place spots in the 100-fly with respective times of 1:03.30 and 1:03.87.

The women’s divers also finished close in the 1-meter dive. Junior Hannah Raymond took second with a score of 296.33 while senior Sarah Grassi took third with a score of 288.75.

Junior Jill Galindo gave the Lions a few points with a third-place finish in the 200yard backstroke. Meskin contributed two third-place finishes in the 200-yard individual medley and the 200-fly with times of 2:20.66 and 2:17.35, respectively.

After a week-long break, the Lions return to host the TCNJ Invitational from Friday, Dec. 2, to Sunday, Dec. 4.

Cheap Seats

Watching sports brings families together on holidays

By Michael Battista Staff Writer America had a chance to relax with family, eat a ton of food and watch three NFL games all on Thursday, Nov. 24. The games were great — even though the Dallas Cowboys won — which got me thinking about every major sport and their connection to a holiday.

The NFL has Thanksgiving, the NBA has Christmas Day, college football — especially the Rose Bowl — usually has New Year’s if it isn’t a Sunday, the NHL is trying to carve a place into New Year’s Day as well with it’s Winter Classic game — once again so long as it isn’t on a Sunday and MLB has Independence Day. Ratings for these types of games are usually some of the highest of the year besides the playoffs for these sports, so players and league officials are more willing to step away from their families in order to take part.

So, why do these sports work so well on these holidays?

For some it’s a matter of tradition. For instance, football has been played on Thanksgiving for more than 100 years. In 1876, shortly after the game was invented, Yale and Princeton universities began an annual tradition of playing each other on Thanksgiving. The day was recognized as a time everyone

A Detriot Lions fan cooks a turkey on game day. would have off so more fans could attend the game. As time passed, the NFL and television came to be and eventually all three came together. The NFL realized that with that many people at home, more people could watch their games.

Not only do we have three games every Thanksgiving, but we have two teams that always play — the Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys — America’s teams.

For others, like the NHL and MLB, it’s a time that fits the image of their respective game.

Baseball has always been a summer sport, so it only makes sense that Independence Day — the most summer holiday there is — should have baseball. A family grilling food together outside or sitting on a beach with a nearby radio or TV playing a baseball game before fireworks start going off — that is what I think of when I imagine Independence Day. While the NHL may not be the most popular sport this country has, it fits in with the winter season.

Many players, both professional

AP Photo

and amateur, from the northern U.S. and Canada talk about waking up on days when school was cancelled and playing on frozen ponds with their friends.

Former Islander Patrick Flatley, who was born in Toronto, said this was standard growing up in Canada.

“They say Canada is the home of hockey, but most kids that play hockey in Canada don’t play organized hockey,” Flatley said in an interview with NHL.com while promoting the 2014 NHL Stadium

Series games in New York City.

“They’re playing on a pond or a frozen river.”

Starting in 2008, the NHL began hosting an annual game that was held outdoors in a large sports venue, usually a football or baseball stadium. The first Winter Classic saw the Pittsburgh Penguins defeat the Buffalo Sabres in a shootout, 2-1.

Since then, the NHL has hosted seven more Winter Classics on either January 1 or January 2, and as someone who has had a chance to attend one — I saw the New York Rangers defeat the Philadelphia Flyers, 3-2, in 2012 — I can say it’s a great experience to have with family on a holiday.

In the end, why do these games work? It’s because they bring people together when they all have the time off from their responsibilities. Whether it’s because families are already together because of the holiday and need something to do, it belongs to the culture of the holiday or it emulates memories of someone’s childhood, these holiday games work, especially when people don’t have to worry about their work.

With the next holiday games being the NBA on Christmas Day, with the New York Knicks taking on the Celtics as one of the games, you can guess what my family and I will be watching on Sunday, Dec. 25.

page 24 The Signal November 30, 2016 Wrestling

Lions coup Monarchs, falter in tournament

By Connor Smith News Editor

After a tough loss to open the season, the College’s wrestling team bounced back in a big way as they trounced the King’s College Monarchs on Wednesday, Nov. 16, with a 33-6 victory. The Lions also earned one win and two losses on Saturday, Nov. 19, in the York College Duals.

“The guys are wrestling hard,” head coach Joe Galante said.

“They’re using good strategies that we’re using in practice. That’s translating to the mat, so it’s good to see.”

Sophomore Luis Rivera, who finished last season with a 10-4 record in dual meets, opened the College’s match against King’s at 125. Behind in the final seconds of the bout, Rivera managed a reversal, as he edged out his opponent with a 5-4 decision. With an early 3-0 lead, the Lions never looked back.

At 133, freshman Mike Plaska wrestled in his first dual match of his career. Once again, a bout went down to the final seconds.

Although it took until overtime, Plaska earned his first dual match win with an 11-9 decision.

Fellow freshmen Anthony Gagliano (141) and Giancarlo Crivelli (149) earned back-to-back major decisions that put the Lions ahead, 14-0.

According to Galante, the team’s

Photo courtesy of Sports Information Desk

Plaska’s first collegiate dual match ends in a victory. freshmen are working hard and buying into the team’s mentality.

“The young guys are fresh, excited and motivated,” he said.

“They’re internally motivated, doing their thing and really listening to our mentality and the things we’re trying to preach.”

King’s College earned its first points at 157 with a 5-1 decision, but the Lions fired back at 165 when senior Nick Herring scored a 19-9 major decision, which poised his team for to a blowout with the score at 18-3.

Freshman Marcus Sherrod won the Lions second overtime decision

at 174, while freshman Dan Kilroy scored the first pin of the night at 184. By then, the dual was out of hand, but the Lions didn’t slow down from there.

At 197, sophomore Alex Mirabella pinned his opponent in under a minute — 59 seconds to be exact — and King’s ended the night with a heavyweight decision, which was only a brief reprieve from a 33-6 thrashing.

“I think we did a good job keeping our composure, when the match was close and, especially, in the third period,” Galante said.

“The guys stayed composed.”

In the York College Duals, the College went against Shippensburg University, Camden County College and York College.

Against Shippensburg, the College kept it close until the final three bouts. There, Shippensburg combined two major decisions and a win by fall to take the first win of the day, 28-19.

The College seemed more comfortable against Camden. Junior Austin Maltez opened the match at 125 with a 2:47 win by fall. Freshman Mike Plaska pounced with an early lead as he notched a shutout win by technical fall.

Gagliano and senior Billy Reardon combined decisions at 141 and 149 to further extend the Lions lead. Both teams traded decisions at 157 and 165, but Kilroy scored another pin, this time at 1:54.

With 26 points overall, the Lions lost the final three weights, but won the dual 26-16.

The final dual, against York was another tough loss for the Lions. The usual Lions lead never materialized, as York opened up by scoring a technical fall and decision in the first two bouts.

Gagliano won by fall at 141, and the Lions strung together points at 157, 165 and 174. York, which already beat Camden 35-9 and Shippensburg by a single point, secured points in the final three bouts, and ended the day with a 21-14 win and a 3-0 record on the day.

The Lions, now 2-3, look forward to the New Standard at York on Saturday, Dec. 3, where they hope to build on last year’s successful performance in which they earned four placings, including a first place at 141.

According to Galante, proper mentality will be key.

“My senses were heightened (against Stevens), and they’re the same against King’s,” he said.

“The guys need to be the same.

They need to be ready, whether it’s Stevens or King’s, they need to prepare and execute the same way.

The opponents shouldn’t matter.”

Men’s Basketball

Net / Lions split tourney

Photo courtesy of Sports Information Desk

Sophomore forward Jordan Glover nets 17 points.

continued from page 28

the Knights.

The Lions ultimately finished the first half with a comfortable 36-27 lead. Both the Lions and Knights remained equal in the second until the Lions slowly pulled ahead.

Decker helped the Knights catch up to the Lions on a pair of free throws and three pointers. With the Lions lead cut to 41-37, Brackett utilized his strong body frame to lounge for two jumpers. In the midst, junior forward Elias Bermudez and Stanford were clutch on the free-throw line both making their free throws.

In the end, the Knights could not hinder the Lions as they won, 79-68 to advance to the tournament finals.

In the finals against Penn State-Harrisburg, the Lions offense froze as the Nittany Lions defeated them, 74-68. Brackett’s 22 point performance was not enough to counter the Nittany Lions stiff defense.

“For some reason we came out slow and played poorly on both sides of the floor,”

Brackett said. “We didn’t run our offense well, and we couldn’t stop them from scoring in the first half. It was good to see that we responded in a positive way and made a run in the second half to cut the deficit to one.”

Coming home from the loss, the Lions obliterated their first conference opponent, Rutgers University-Camden, 106-66, on Tuesday, Nov. 22.

The Lions initially overwhelmed the Raptors with a 15-5 lead. It was an overall team effort as Brackett, Stanford and Murdock Jr. and sophomore forward Jordan Glover reached to the double-digit column. Additionally, freshman forward Ryan Jensen and freshman guard Tommy Egan were able to contribute off the bench, scoring six points.

The Lions travel to Galloway, N.J., on Wednesday, Nov. 30, for another conference matchup against the Stockton University Ospreys. On Saturday, Dec. 3, the Lions return to Packer Hall to compete against the Kean University Cougars at 3 p.m.

Teach For America | Paid On-Campus Internship Responsibilities  Create and manage an effective social media and marketing campaign  Network with professors and student organizations  Actively participate in weekly team meetings with TFA staff  Complete assignments on time and at a high quality  Speak Publically 3-5 times a week If interested, email your resume to andy.saunders@teachforamerica.org

November 30, 2016 The Signal page 25 Women’s Basketball

Lions scratch up win against Seagulls

Photos courtesy of Sports Information Desk

Left: The Lions finish runner-up at the Gwynedd Tip-off Tournament. Right: Schott contributes to the Lions season-opening win.

By Dylan Calloway Correspondent The women’s basketball team fell 81-76 last Tuesday, Nov. 22, in a close match against Rutgers University-Camden, who are currently tied for first in the New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC). The game was the opening conference match-up for both schools.

Turnovers and fouls were a factor in the loss, with the Raptors scoring 18 points as a result of turnovers, and converting 20 free throw attempts. A stand out performance by Raptors junior forward/center Michelle Obasi was also a factor, who scored 28 points, grabbed eight rebounds and snatched four steals.

Despite the loss, there were some quality takeaways for the Lions, including an outstanding double-double recorded by junior guard Charlotte Schum, in which she

tallied 19 points and snagged 17 rebounds. Freshman forward Jen Byrne also recorded 18 points in her third collegiate game. Lions head coach Dawn Henderson had words of praise for the young starter.

“Jen Byrne is an outstanding player,” Henderson said.

“We are expecting big things from her. She is very versatile. She can compete inside and hit the three outside.”

After starting off the season with a win in the first round of the Gwynedd Mercy Tip-Off Tournament against Salisbury University, the Lions stumbled, losing their past two games and putting themselves in last place in the NJAC. Henderson is still very optimistic despite the slow start.

“We are working to be in the NJAC Playoffs, with a chance to win it all and get to the NCAA Tournament,” Henderson said.

Junior forward Nikki Schott was also named Student

Athlete of the Week by the College for her performance in the tournament.

“Nikki is playing very well this season,” Henderson said. “She is being more physical on both ends of the floor. She is a great athlete and should continue to impact the team.”

Nikki scored a total of 29 points and contributed a total of four blocks, five assists and 15 rebounds. She was also named to Gwynedd’s All-Tournament team.

The Lions head on the road to play Stockton University on Wednesday, Nov. 30, hoping to set themselves up for a climb back to the top of the conference.

The Ospreys are currently tied for first in the NJAC along with Rutgers University-Camden and Montclair State University. After that game, the Lions come back to Packer Hall on Saturday, Dec. 3, to challenge Kean University at 1 p.m.

page 26 The Signal November 30, 2016

November 30, 2016 The Signal page 27

LIONS

D RM AROUND THE

David Weinberg “The Ref”

Matt Ajaj Staff Writer

EJ Paras Marc Trotochaud LTV Station Manager ATD Correspondent

In this week’s edition of Around the Dorm, “Ref” David Weinberg asks our panel of three experts — Matt Ajaj, EJ Paras and Marc Trotochaud — three questions: Do you believe the Warriors should embrace their “super villain” role? Which team has the best chance to win the Super Bowl? Where will Yoenis Céspedes and Aroldis Chapman end up this offseason?

1. Dwayne Wade said one of his regrets with the Miami Heat was accepting their role as the villain during the first year with the “Big Three.” Should the Warriors accept this role?

Matt: Thanks to mainstream sports media (I’m looking at you, ESPN), the Golden State Warriors have become the villains of the NBA because people are so sick of hearing about them. Steph Curry this, Steph Curry that — it’s like that song you have stuck in your head that you used to like but eventually start to get sick of. The Warriors have been forced to accept this “super villain” role, because to deny it would be a rejection of reality — after the addition of Kevin Durant to form their super squad, they got an even bigger target on their backs. They are the team to beat. Every opposing squad walks into the arena with extreme determination, burning with the desire to take down the top dog. However, in accepting their role as the villains, the Warriors solidify their confidence, which, as any professional athlete will tell you, is one of the essential qualities

one should have and build upon. By telling themselves they are the best, the Warriors will play like they are best. Their self-assurance is their victory insurance.

EJ: Dwyane Wade is one of the NBA’s biggest “nice guys,” so naturally he would scoff at the idea of being a villain. If you remember Kevin Durant’s Foot Locker campaign back when he was with the Thunder, you’ll know that “KD is not nice.” If you ask me, I

think having a villain not only spices up the league — it’s absolutely necessary to create a compelling storyline for the journey of the NBA season. Back when you had the Spurs dominating in the mid-2000s, the NBA was going through a ratings crisis, with some of the NBA Finals games between the Spurs and the Nets not even selling out. We can credit LeBron “King James” James’s fouryear reign in Miami as the catalyst of the

Instagram

rejuvenation of the NBA as must-see TV. With the Warriors signing Kevin Durant after coming off the best regular season of all-time and one win shy of a title, it’s no surprise that they’re seen as villains and that they’re relishing it. Let the people heckle — bring the Larry O’Brien Trophy back to the Bay Area and that should shut some of the haters up.

Marc: I think that it would be a bad decision for the Warriors to frame themselves as super-villains. The choice of becoming a “super villain” is introspective for the team, and it has to reflect the organization and roster as a whole. It could work and many teams have undergone similar identity changes in the past — the Pistons beat Michael Jordan, Larry Bird and Magic Johnson by becoming the “Bad Boys” — but that was because everyone in the organization from top to bottom bought in. I just can’t see the Warriors sacrificing their funloving, care-free flashy basketball to become “villains” and I hope that their “super villain party” was intentionally as corny and ironic as the picture made it looked.

Matt gets 2 points for commenting on ESPN fatigue. EJ gets 3 points for saying its a storyline to drive up ratings. Marc gets 2 points for the introspection.

2. Which NFL team has the best chance to win the Super Bowl?

Matt: This is an odd NFL season to say the least. We’ve seen the Panthers, Packers and Cardinals — all supposed Super Bowl contenders — struggle immensely. The NFC East and AFC West have really turned the corner, each boasting three teams with more than .500 records. However, the former has been faced with extremely an easy schedule and the latter is flawed by inexperience (Oakland) or poor offenses (Kansas City and Denver). I’m gonna stick with the two teams I picked for the Super Bowl in the preseason: the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks. The perennial powerhouse Pats still have Brady and Belichick, so a Super Bowl appearance is not just a prospect but an expectation. Seattle is riding a three-game win streak, has a healthy Russell Wilson and boasts plenty of playoff experience. We’re gonna see Super Bowl XLIX Part two. Looks like I’ll be spending Super Bowl

Weekend scouring through my timeline for that omniscient tweet.

EJ: It’s the Year of Brady. I don’t think there’s any other way it can go. Sure, the Cowboys are the hottest team in the NFL right now, but Brady will prove to people again this year why he is the greatest quarterback of our generation and of all time. If there’s any time for the Pats to take home one more chip with the Brady-Belichick tandem, it’s now.

What kind of player can still be in the MVP conversation after being suspended the first four weeks of the NFL season? I don’t know many, personally, but Tom Brady fits the billing. The Patriots have so many weapons to beat their opponents, and I simply can’t see any other team winning the Super Bowl this year. Their victory would literally be poetry in motion, and seeing Goodell give the Patriots another Vince Lombardi Trophy would quell the legacy of Deflategate.

Marc: I waited until after Sunday’s games

because I was really torn about who I thought I would pick. To be honest, watching the games gave me some clarity. Two of my top-tier teams — the Patriots and Seahawks — had an unconvincing win and a shocking loss, and the Cowboys journey has been too good to be true, making me weary of their long-term potential. That’s why I am rolling with the Raiders — their offensive line

is nasty, they have the best receivers in football, their defense is young and energetic and Derrick Carr is looking like an MVP candidate. Maybe it’s recency bias because I just watched Cam Newton get strip sacked for a loss just like in the Super Bowl, but don’t be too surprised if you see legendary stud owner Mark Davis wearing a fanny pack and holding up the Lombardi Trophy in February.

AP Photo

Matt gets 3 points for faltering Super Bowl contenders. EJ gets 2 points for Brady. Marc gets 2 points for picking a dark horse — the Raiders.

3. Where do you think the top two free agents in baseball — Yoenis Céspedes and Aroldis Chapman land this offseason?

Matt: If I was Céspedes, I would go to the team that can offer me the most money over a long period of time. Since he has entered the league, it seems like “Yo” is on a new team or negotiating a new contract after every season.

At this point, he wants stability and certainty with his new contract and a new team. As the top free agent of this year’s class he is going to get pretty much whatever his heart desires.

My guess is that the LA Dodgers, who have question marks in the corner outfield positions and have a payroll that would make Scrooge

McDuck sweat, will ultimately make an offer that “Yo” can’t throw out. As for Chapman, no team needs bullpen help like San Francisco.

In their heart-wrenching 2016 season, the Giants had four relievers in the top 29 players on the blown saves leader list, combining for 23 blown saves. They need Chapman like a glove needs a hand. For San Francisco, the time has come to decide whether they want to save money or use money to get saves — expect them to choose the latter.

EJ: I’m going to go out on a limb and say, even amidst all of this speculation, that the Mets will find a way to bring Céspedes back as their top hitter. The pressure is on the Mets

to re-sign Céspedes, and I think that they’ll do it. It’ll cost them a pretty penny, but I’m sure they’ll find a way to make it happen. As far as Chapman, I think it’ll be a mini-homecoming for him with the Yankees bringing him the big bucks. Coming off of a World Series win with the Cubs after being traded by the Yankees back in July, I think the Yankees would lure him back since “you don’t know what you got till it’s gone,” as the old adage says.

Marc: Baseball’s beautiful lack of cap leads me to believe that these two players are just

going to follow the money. I will be boring and say that Chapman returning to play in pinstripes is the most likely outcome from him.

It would be surprising that a club would offer more money than the Yankees, but if someone coughs up the cash maybe he will walk away.

As far as Céspedes goes I think he too may end up in New York, but with the NL chasing Mets. The Mets have seen what Céspedes can do and know that he can play a big role for their team. Although there is still a lot of uncertainty it looks like the Big Apple seems like the best destination for both of these guys.

Matt gets 3 points for the Dodgers payroll and the Giants bullpen. EJ and Marc get 1 point each for a lack of insightful analysis.

Winner’s Circle

AP Photos

Signal

Sports

Lions go for the distance at nationals

By Danielle Silvia Staff Writer

While many college students were preparing for Thanksgiving break and gearing up for final exams, the College’s men’s cross country team and sophomore Natalie Cooper of the women’s team had an exciting weekend in Louisville, Ky., competing in the 2016 Division III Cross Country Championships on Saturday, Nov. 19. The men’s Lions came in 30th place overall in the 8000-meter race and Cooper finished in the top 50 in the 6000meter race, ahead of more than 200 of the nation’s most adept runners.

Head coach Justin Lindsey saw the results as a positive.

“The men performed well,” Lindsey said. “It was a great learning experience for them and we have five returners from this group for next season.”

Two seniors, Andrew Tedeschi and Brandon Mazzarella, led the men’s team to a strong finish. Tedeschi, who qualified for nationals last year by himself, returned this year with his team by his side. “(Tedeschi) went for it and was not shy about racing at that level, and I think last year’s race helped him prepare for this year,” Walker said. “Brandon Mazzarella also had a very strong race, which is great considering it was his first national championship and it was also his last cross country (season).”

The competition was fierce. In fewer than 30 seconds, 57 runners crossed in between the two Lions. Tedeschi finished in 85th place overall with a time of 25:19, while Mazzarella finished with a time of 25:41 in 142nd place.

Photo courtesy of Sports Information Desk

The men’s cross country team competes with the nation’s best runners.

Many underclassmen also contributed. Tedeschi set the example of finishing strong and guiding many younger teammates. Freshman Brian Mitchell was the third runner to finish for the Lions with a time of 26:25, followed closely by sophomore Matthew Saponara with a time of 26:30. Junior Dale Johnson finished with a time of 26:35, finishing fifth for the Lions.

Sophomores Quinn Wasko and Luke Prothero finished neck and neck, both nearly with a time of 27:12. The duo rounded out the top seven.

The men of the College’s cross country team had a strong season, achieving their 23rd straight New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) Championship, a third place result at

the Mid-Atlantic Regional Championships, and capping the season off in Louisville this past weekend at the Division III Cross Country Championships. This was the Lions first time competing in nationals since 2007.

As for the women’s team, sophomore Natalie Cooper was truly the team’s standout this season. With a very successful season guiding her to the championships this weekend, Cooper finished in 47th place overall with a time of 21:29.

Cooper started the race strong and by the time she reached the third km of the path, she was within the top 35. Her split time was 10:19 at this point. She completed the 6000-meter race — and her season — on an outstanding note.

“Unfortunately, (Cooper) fell at the

finish line and lost a few places, but she raced with a purpose and was very close to earning All-American,” Walker said.

Cooper finished her season with plenty of accolades and honors, such as an NJAC Individual Title as well as a sixth place finish at the Mid-Atlantic Regional Championships.

With regard to her incredible performance this season, Cooper remains humble to herself, her team and the sport itself.

Cooper said she hoped to finish in the top 35 runners of her race. According to head coach Justin Lindsey, there are a few things that could help Cooper hit this goal next year.

“One of the biggest ways to improve on her performance is to get the women to qualify as a team next season,” Lindsey said. “Natalie is very team oriented, so having the women out there with her would be great for her. Gradually increasing her mileage will be another way to enhance her chances to crack into the top 35.”

Cooper made athletic history this year, as it was the first time any of the Lady Lions entered nationals since 2013, when the Lions qualified together as team.

The men’s and women’s cross country teams all exceeded expectations this season. The Lions will take time to reflect on the work that they have done this autumn, and then continue to train for next season as some will compete on the winter and spring track teams next semester. Walker said he thinks the rest of the men learned a lot from their experience. Cooper also has a fair shot at an All-American title, according to Walker.

“Natalie has a realistic chance of earning multiple All-American awards based on what I saw at nationals,” Walker said.

Lions offense scorches in season debut

By Miguel Gonzalez Sports Editor

The Lions were off to a good start after defeating the John Jay College Bloodhounds, 75-58, in their home opener on Tuesday, Nov. 15. The team followed with a 79-68 win against the State University of New York (SUNY) Geneseo Knights, before conceding a 68-74 loss to Pennsylvania State University-Harrisburg on Sunday, Nov. 20.

The team then proceeded to demolish the Rutgers University-Camden Raptors, 106-66, at Packer Hall on Tuesday, Nov. 22, giving them a 3-1 record.

Spectators and students filled the gym in anticipation for the Lions first game against the Bloodhounds.

The home crowd not only witnessed a 75-58 victory, but saw the team for what it is: an offensive juggernaut.

Both squads were equal in

Lions Lineup November 30, 2016

I n s i d e

the first half as the Lions and the Bloodhounds committed turnovers on one another.

Senior forward Bobby Brackett scored the team’s first points of the season with a thunderous twohanded dunk. The Bloodhounds responded by scoring 10 points on a series of layups and three-pointers.

By the 14th minute, the Lions caught up with the Bloodhounds and scored eight consecutive points, uninterrupted.

In the second half, the Lions ran away with their lead as the team relied on rebounds, layups and jumpers to deliver the victory. Senior transfer Corey Stanford sputtered as he dished out 20 points. With defensive coverage from junior guard Erick Murdock Jr. and Brackett, Stanford was able to easily execute layups. At the same time, Murdock Jr. and Brackett acted as a one-two punch on breakaways and turnovers.

“Corey is a great player and an unbelievable addition to our

Swimming page 23

Brackett throws down a dunk against John Jay College. team,” Brackett said. “We are a very lucky program to have a guy like Corey join us this year and he will be a huge part of our team the entire season. He’s gelled with the team right away and his play has shown it so far.”

Afterwards, the Lions headed to Middletown, Pa., to compete

Cheap Seats page 23

in the Penn-State Harrisburg tipoff tournament.

In the firs match, the Lions trampled the SUNY Geneseo Knights, 79-68, as Stanford recorded a double-double of 24 points and 12 rebounds.

The Lions stayed ahead of the Knights during the first half.

Women’s Basketball page 25

Photo courtesy of Sports Information Desk

Stanford and Murdock Jr. opened a 7-0 start before Knights senior guard Jack Eisenberg scored a two-point jumper.

The Knights sole threat was senior guard John Decker who provided 27 points for see NET page 24

Around The Dorm page 27