Breaking news and more at TCNJSignal.net Vol. XLVII, No. 14
May 2, 2018
Serving The College of New Jersey community since 1885
Music department celebrates centennial
PRISM has passion for fashion
By Brielle Bryan News Editor
By Heidi Cho Arts & Entertainment Editor The College’s Music Department celebrated its 100th anniversary over two days, Friday, April 27, and Saturday, April 28, with stunning performances. Students, faculty and alumni came together at the student showcase concert, reception and gala to show off their talent. Professor Joshua Roach conducted the wind ensemble for the first segment of the student showcase concert and put together a repertoire that carried the audience through 100 years of music. The concert began with pieces from the 1910s. “The Vanquished Army” started the audience off on a two-day journey with a cheery marching song inspired by World War I, according to Roach, who is also the wind ensemble and band conductor. A later piece, “Music for Prague 1968” by Karel Husa is a regularly performed piece by the band, according to senior music education major Ryan Galik. The piece was inspired by the dashes and dots of morse code used heavily during the Russian invasion of Prague. This staccato-like beat gave the piece an untraditional harmony emphasized by sounds similar to that of abandoned bells in the wind. Prague was a city known for its bells, according to Roach. see SONG page 12
College workers express job dissatisfaction
in the Brower Student Center. The Enchanted Garden themed drag show was sprinkled with references to the Emmy Award-winning television show RuPaul’s Drag Race — a reality show in which drag queens compete for the title of “America’s Next Drag Superstar.”
The College’s Department of Building Services employs senior building maintenance workers who are responsible for cleaning academic and residential buildings. Four workers who wished to remain anonymous have expressed their concerns about the way they have been treated by the College, including discrimination, understaffing and unsafe working conditions. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination based upon an individual’s race, color, sex, religion and national origin. In addition to this federal law prohibiting employment discrimination, the College has its own similar policy. “It’s about respect — you don’t get the respect at The College of New Jersey,” said Worker One. The Building Services workers belong to the Local 195 International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers union. Local 195, IFPTE American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations has its own zero-tolerance policy for discrimination of employees in the workplace. The College currently employs 187 workers who are covered by the IFPTE Negotiated Bargaining Agreement, according to Curt Heuring, the College’s vice president of administration.
see GLOW page 18
see LABOR page 7
Meagan McDowell / Photo Editor
Sky enthralls students with her vivid performance. By Julia Dzurillay Staff Writer
Boys in black underwear waltzed into the room tossing pink and red flower petals as hostess and professional drag queen Davida Sky, a vision in rainbow feathers, sequins and fishnets, took the stage to mark the start of PRISM’s Annual Charity Drag Show on April 24
Kendall Hall requires further renovations
The building suffers from poor insulation due to outdated windows.
By Thomas Infante Editor-In-Chief
Kendall Hall Room 133, once an overcrowded classroom in desperate need of renovation, is now equipped with brand new Apple desktop computers, audio mixers
and 60-inch monitors on each wall that can display images from any of the computers in the room. While communication studies students will have a much easier time learning about editing and production techniques, they can hardly escape the architectural
INDEX: Nation & World / page 10 Editorial / page 11 IMM Senior Showcase Follow us on... The Signal @tcnjsignal
Lily Firth / Features Editor
flaws that plague the building with inconsistent temperatures and outside noise. Despite the addition of the state-of-the-art lab, longtime faculty of the communication studies department say that there are still many aspects of the building that
Arts & Entertainment / page 12
need improvement. The Kendall Hall teaching and learning lab was conceived as a modern model of Room 133, which was originally designed to be a distance learning conference room. Unfortunately, it became largely unused once video chatting platforms like Skype became widely available, according to Paul D’Angelo, department chair of communication studies. “The room always had a technological purpose, but it was never equipped for the purposes of teaching RTF (radio, television and film specialization) students until now,” D’Angelo said. With computers arranged in groups of four, the new lab is optimal for teaching video and sound editing to students on the radio, television and film track of the communication studies major. Previously, editing classes were taught in a row of small “suites” in the basement, which could fit about three students per room. “It was a challenge to teach about technology in areas that were not designed for success,” Opinions / page 16
‘Harry Potter’ Marathon
said Judy Cook, director of the College’s Office of Instructional Design and a professor of communication studies. “We couldn’t do group work in that environment. Now, it’s much more collaborative since we can integrate video and software into the lesson.” The lab also features 60-inch wall monitors on each of the room’s four walls, which the instructor can use to mirror the displays of the other computers. This makes it easy for students to follow along with the occasionally complicated lessons involving editing and production software like Avid Media Composer. “Having the equipment available really takes the burden off the student to have the right computer or software to use,” Cook said. “Technology should not be an obstacle or a headache in the classroom.” Cook feels that the lab will be a tremendous asset to students in the department. see LAB page 5
Features / page 18
Sports / page 24
Lacrosse
Students show off capstone projects
Students read passages from iconic novels
Lions earn top seed for conference playoffs
See A&E page 13
See Features page 18
See Sports page 24
page 2 The Signal May 2, 2018
SG commends Gitenstein’s service to College
SG discusses livestreaming its general body meetings. By Grace Gottschling Staff Writer
Student Government awarded College President R. Barbara Gitenstein a commendation for her diligent service, heard from the Student Finance Board, proposed a bill on livestreaming general body meetings and passed a resolution decrying mandatory edTPA requirements for education majors at its general body meeting on April 25. SG executive president and junior civil engineering major Chris Blakeley presented Gitenstein
Meagan McDowell / Photo Editor
with commendation C-S2018-01, which recognized her accomplishments during her nearly 20-year tenure as president. Gitenstein was the first female president of the College. Her successor, PresidentElect Kathryn A. Foster, will be the second. Gitenstein was unaware of the award prior to the meeting, and was surprised by the sentiment. “Over the last 19 years I have seen such wonderful leadership from the students in terms of issues that have transformed this campus,” Gitenstein said. “Whether you have been serving
in Student Government or as the president of a student organization, or as a student trustee, your voice has meant so much. Thank you so much. You don’t know how much this means to me.” After a brief recess to capture a photograph of the moment shared between Gitenstein and SG, Gitenstein left her last meeting with SG. B-S2018-10 will be voted on in the final SG general body meeting of the semester. The bill states that all general body meetings will be livestreamed in order to ensure inclusivity to a variety of students who may not be able to attend the
Students harvest knowledge of sports industry from alumni By Miguel Gonzalez Sports Editor Students got a glimpse outside the stadium and inside the world of a career in sports at the “Business of Sports” conference, hosted by the School of Business on April 25. Nine alumni shared advice with students interested in working in sports communication, marketing, event planning and sales operations. After a brief introduction by William W. Keep, dean of the School of Business, alumnus Luis Perez (’86) delivered a keynote address on the profound impact of the business of sports. While he never played or coached professional sports, Perez, who was the former chief financial officer for the Baltimore Ravens and the Detroit Lions, emphasized that the business of sports is like an ecosystem of opportunities and careers, rather than simply selling concessions. “Typically when people think about
(the business of sports), they think about selling tickets, selling beers, selling viewership.” Perez said. “Their view is usually very narrow. I spent all of my 20 years in sports at teams. That is just one narrow path within this vast ecosystem.” Perez spoke about his tenure with the Detroit Lions and how he used the team’s platform to give back to the community of Detroit. Perez renewed the team’s sponsorship with Meijer, a regional grocery chain concentrated in the midwestern U.S., to introduce more grocery stores in the heart of Detroit. Once the negotiation was made, Perez and the Detroit Lions marketed Meijer to the community. “We drove brand awareness, we drove foot traffic,” Perez said. “We drove attention to those stores in the neighborhoods. They did that off of our platform. We had players there. That’s the business of sports.” see LIONS page 4
Miguel Gonzalez / Sports Editor
Perez recalls his experience establishing grocery stores in Detroit.
meetings in person, such as those with conflicting schedules or those who live off-campus. General body meetings, along with public SG voting records, are open to all students. SG believes creating a livestream will move the organization one step closer to being fully accessible to the student body. R-S2018-04 was unanimously passed, resolving that SG formally disagrees with the current mandatory requirement for education majors to take the edTPA, a highly controversial exam meant to gauge if new teachers are prepared for the classroom. In New Jersey, effective on September 1, “All Certificate of Eligibility with Advanced Standing and Certificate of Eligibility candidates will be required to complete and pass edTPA by meeting or exceeding the New Jersey Department of Education established passing standard,” according to the edTPA website. Former New Jersey Education Association Preservice President Ellen Bacon wrote after personally taking the exam that the “edTPA is a deterrent to the profession, unnecessarily time consuming and stressful.” The edTPA requires more than 100 pages of written materials from students, as well as lesson samples and a video of
them instructing a classroom. The exam costs as much as $300 to take and an additional $100 for resubmission. The resolution states that the complexities of the exam adds an unnecessary burden on emerging teachers. SG also heard SFB’s master budget for fiscal 2018. The budget, which was not approved by SG and voted to be tabled for the next and final meeting of the semester, sparked concern over how certain funds have been allocated. The one-sheet handout prepared by SFB contained several typos including mislabeled current and future year fiscal budget columns and incorrect data, adding to the confusion. SFB stated they were not given enough time to assess the budget and had compiled the numbers for the handout just hours before presenting it to SG. Provided the other data listed on the SFB handout is correct, the Special Appropriations budget, which sets aside funds for clubs to specially request event funding, nearly doubled in size –– it rose by 42 percent for a total of $310,161.5. Additionally, $9,500 previously spent by the College on LionsGate software has been reallocated until new event software can be adopted. Options for new software were previously discussed in an SG general body meeting on April 11.
Vital Signs: Steps to freeze finals frenzy
Excessive panic about exams can cause distress. By Anna Kellaher Columnist As the semester comes to an end, the only thing standing between you and summer are final exams and all of stress that comes with them. It is totally normal to be worried about a big exam, but how much stress is too much? People experience two types of stress, eustress and distress. Eustress is “good” stress — it is what motivates us to actually head to the library and study for finals instead of binging on a new Netflix series. Eustress is temporary and can actually improve our performance. However, there is a point where panic for an exam can become excessive and cross from eustress to distress. This kind of stress no longer inspires us and can actually inhibit studying and test performance.
Flickr
One big difference between eustress and distress is that eustress is more manageable, and we feel capable of coping with the hectic situation. Distress can feel insurmountable, which is not the best feeling to have going into an exam. To avoid overwhelming stress from exams, it’s important to incorporate healthy study habits. Make a study schedule. Time management reduces stress, and creating and sticking to a plan can give you a sense of control, according to ABC. Take study breaks. A study by an app called DeskTime, which monitors productivity, found that the most productive schedule is around 52 minutes of work followed by a 15-20 minute break. Don’t forget your physical health. A healthy diet, regular exercise and adequate sleep increases our ability to bounce back from a stressor.
May 2, 2018 The Signal page 3
Lost, stolen items send Campus Police searching By Brielle Bryan News Editor Vodka shots send student over can On April 18, at 12:19 a.m., Campus Police was dispatched to Travers Hall on a report of an intoxicated female student. Upon arrival, Campus Police observed a female student sitting on the floor of the dorm room entrance and vomiting into a garbage can, police said. The intoxicated student stated she consumed an unknown amount of vodka shots in her room. The intoxicated student’s friend was at the scene and stated she was concerned about her friend’s well-being, police said. The intoxicated student’s friend notified their community adviser, who then contacted Campus Police. According to police reports, TCNJ EMS arrived on scene at approximately 12:30 a.m. to assess the intoxicated student, who refused transport to the hospital. The student was not issued a summons for underage consumption due to New Jersey’s 911 Lifeline Legislation. Student loses pack in Packer Hall On April 18, at approximately
9:55 p.m., Campus Police was dispatched to Campus Police Headquarters to speak with a male student who reported that his black New Balance backpack and its contents were stolen from Packer Hall. The student stated that inside the backpack was an electronic car key and a leather J. Crew wallet containing a Bank of America Visa debit card and a Blue Cross Blue Shield health insurance identification card. The student stated that he had a spare key to his vehicle, police said. Upon arrival, police met with the student who stated that he placed his backpack down on the ground outside of the varsity weight room at approximately 2:10 p.m. According to police reports, he went to retrieve his backpack at approximately 3:45 p.m., but it was not where he left it. A victim notification form was completed and a copy was provided to the student. There are no suspects at this time, according to Campus Police. Lost laptop finds its way back home On April 18, at approximately 12:40 a.m., a female student went to Campus Police Headquarters to report a stolen black Lenovo laptop. The student said
the laptop was valued at $800 and had a blue whale sticker on its cover. She reported that she was working in the Library Café on the morning of April 17 when she had her laptop plugged into an outlet near the high tables next to the café windows, police said. She stated that she left the café at approximately 1:30 a.m., not realizing that she had left her laptop in the library. She reported that she did not realize she had forgotten to pack up her laptop until approximately 6 p.m. on the evening of April 17. The female student walked into the library shortly after approximately 6 p.m. to ask an on-duty library staff member if her laptop had been turned in, police said. The library staff member told the female student that they did not have access to the safe and that she would have to return the next morning, on April 18, during business hours and speak with a librarian who has access to the safe. According to police reports, Campus Police reviewed video surveillance footage of a female student library staff worker collecting the laptop. Campus Police spoke with the student staff
worker at approximately 1:45 a.m. and advised her that they were investigating the possible theft of a laptop. She stated that she placed the unattended laptop onto the shelf of a book cart along with a note, police said. The only other personnel in the library after the library café closed was Building Services. Campus Police spoke with a Building Services worker who cleans the library. The worker stated that he did not see anything left behind the night before and that he did not clean or enter the café area. The female student was advised to locate the serial number and model for her laptop, police said. Additionally, she was encouraged to inquire with library staff during the morning hours. The student was given a case number for reference and was advised to contact Campus Police if the laptop was recovered. According to police reports, the laptop was recovered and returned the next day. It was found by library staff at closing. Intoxicated student drinks unknown amount of vodka at undisclosed party On April 25, at approximately 2:45 a.m., three Campus Police
officers responded to Cromwell Hall in reference to an intoxicated female student. Upon arrival, Campus Police met with a community adviser, who stated that a female student had advised him that her friend was vomiting in her room, police said. Campus Police proceeded to the location and met with the friend, along with the intoxicated student and her roommate. The intoxicated student was observed to be hunched over and vomiting into a trash bin, police said. The student’s friend and roommate stated that they did not know what or how much the intoxicated student had to drink. TCNJ EMS arrived on scene and evaluated the intoxicated student, police said. It was determined that the student did not need medical transport for further treatment. The intoxicated student stated she drank an unknown amount of vodka at an undisclosed party, police said. The intoxicated student was not charged for underage consumption of alcoholic beverages due to New Jersey’s 911 Lifeline Legislation. Anyone with information can contact Campus Police at 609771-2345.
Interim vice president of Student Affairs set to depart Colleagues express gratitude as administrator heads to Florida State
tcnj.edu
Right: Chong contributes to the Athletic Department’s accolades. Left: Chong speaks at a Student Government meeting.
By Miguel Gonzalez Sports Editor
College President R. Barbara Gitenstein announced on April 25 that Angela Lauer Chong, the interim vice president of student affairs, will be departing after nearly nine years at the College. Chong has recently accepted the position of associate vice president for student affairs at Florida State University, according to Gitenstein. In her time at the College, Chong was the associate dean of students, dean of students, assistant vice president for student affairs and the interim director of athletics. Several executive team members at the division of student affairs have praised Chong’s strong contribution to the College.
Sean Stallings, the interim associate vice president for students affairs, believes Chong’s most distinguished accomplishments are rewriting the student conduct code and working diligently at the Division of Student affairs. Stallings commends Chong’s efforts to reform many issues concerning the student body. “We have seen immeasurable contributions through governance, departmental reorganizations, clear understandings of Students Rights and Freedoms, mental health advocacy and much more,” Stallings said. Elizabeth Bapasola, the assistant vice president for student affairs, applauds Chong’s effort to communicate with the student body. “Angela has done an incredible job reaching out to students to hear their concerns and do all she can to address
them,” Bapasola said. Chong has tabled with Student Government cabinet officers in the Brower Student Center, chatted with numerous students during lunch and met regularly with SG members, according to Bapasola. Most recently, Chong facilitated the Critical Conversations forum in the wake of student counter-protests against the Bible Believers. Bapasola also highlighted Chong’s leadership and decision-making for the Division of Student affairs. “She leads with grace and emotional intelligence and does a superb job bringing people together to reach shared goals,” Bapasola said. “I appreciate Angela’s thoughtful approach to decision-making, her values-driven leadership style and her ability to build authentic relationships with students, faculty and staff in order to
Miguel Gonzalez / Sports Editor
best serve the institution.” Susie Orecchio, the director of administration and operations for Student Affairs, has witnessed Chong forge vital relationships since Orecchio joined the Division of Student Affairs in 2014. “Angela gives the perfect balance of support and empowerment, and she truly values and appreciates her team,” Orecchio said. “She is a remarkable role model and I have learned so much from her.” Bapasola says the College will miss Chong as she heads out to her new position at Florida State. “Angela strives for excellence in all endeavors and I admire her ability to remain nimble and steady in challenging and every-changing circumstances,” Bapasola said. “I am so grateful to have worked for and with her during my time at TCNJ, and she will be greatly missed.”
page 4 The Signal May 2, 2018
Lions/Student-athletes benefit from connections
Miguel Gonzalez / Sports Editor
Left: Keep introduces alumni during the opening lecture. Right: Haley emphasizes the importance of persistence as a tool for success. continued from page 2 After the first lecture, students broke off into four different presentations facilitated by two alumni in different rooms of the Business Building. In one presentation, alumnus Craig Haley (’91) and alumna Megan Hueter (’07) spoke about their careers in sports journalism and digital marketing, respectively. Haley, who currently is the senior editor of STATS’ Football Championship Subdivision, emphasized creativity and determination “Be persistent,” Haley said. “Get those doors to open. Don’t just knock on doors. Sports is a fast-moving industry. It’s all about business development. You want to have ideas, whether you’re a writer or into sales.” Hueter explained how she turned her passion for sports into a career at Endeavor, a prominent sports, fashion and entertainment media company. Hueter seized the opportunity to go into digital marketing when her public relations firm was acquired by the International Management Group, the world’s largest sports marketing company at the time. Once IMG was purchased by William Morris Endeavor and the firms merged into Endeavor, Hueter had her hands full. “I spend a ton of time working on
events,” Hueter said. “This is a global business. We have over 800 plus sporting events we produce annually. My group has a quota of producing 120 events across 26 countries and four continents.” At the sales operations and event execution presentation, alumnus Christoph Schoenbeck (’10) and alumna Kristina Shemming (’10) spoke about the importance of gathering internship experience. Schoenbeck competed on the College’s men’s basketball team, while Shemming played on the women’s soccer team. Schoenbeck spoke of how he became the senior manager at Major League Soccer. After finishing his career with the College’s men’s basketball team, he interned for the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority at what is now MetLife Stadium. He then interned for the New York Red Bulls before making a fortunate connection. With the help of Shemming, Schoenbeck received a referral from the College’s women’s soccer assistant coach, Bob Turner. Schoenbeck has been at Major League Soccer ever since. At the other side of panel, Shemming underscored the importance of hands on experience. After college, Shemming navigated through a series of internships at Sirius
XM Radio, MTV Network and MLB Network before landing a sales associate job at the WFAN Yankees Radio Network. In 2013, Shemming moved over to the New York Mets and eventually became a Senior Account Executive for iHeartMedia. Shemming urged students to be patient while pursuing a career in the sports industry. “It puts a lot of pressure on you to take any job, especially if you’re doing something part-time,” Shemming said. “Sure, it’s not as sexy as what your friends are doing. For me, I took an internship after I graduated but I stayed on the path I wanted to be on.” Other notable alumni who presented at the conference were Bradlee Downs (’05) and Rob Roche (’93), who discussed entrepreneurship and management. Alumnus Jason Cantor (’10) also collaborated with Perez to present on community relations. Many students, especially student-athletes, gained valuable advice on pursuing a career in sports during the lectures. Randall Walko, who is a guard for the men’s basketball team and a sophomore health and exercise science major, benefited from making connections with alumni. “As a basketball player, I’m always been interested and involved in sports,”
Walko said. “I definitely want to stay motivated after college. This event has been very helpful, as I got to meet many former college athletes.”
“Be persistent. Get those doors to open. Don’t just knock on doors. Sports is a fast-moving industry. It’s all about business development. You want to have ideas, whether you’re a writer or into sales.”
—Craig Haley
Senior editor of STATS FCS
SFB votes on base budgets for CUB, SG By Eric Preisler Staff Writer
The 2018-2019 base budgets for the College Union Board, Student Government and Sports Club Council were voted on at the Student Finance Board meeting on April 25. SFB partially funded CUB, which requested $825,117 for its base budget. However, SG tabled CUB’s requests, wanting further detail and justification about various costs. These costs would cover events such as bus trips, Nooners, Silent Disco, Late Nighters, Funival and fall and spring comedy shows, lectures and concerts. SFB partially funded SG’s base budget while tabling the national membership fee and T-shirt swaps. SG’s funds would cover costs for publicity, office supplies, insurance for Spirit Week, a volleyball tournament, field
games, rally towels, the Blue and Gold ceremony, the SG retreat, the upcoming Epcot-inspired cultural expo and legal fees. SG later voted to table its budget. SFB voted to make revisions on their expanded base budgeting agreements with both CUB and SG. It was voted that memos, which are used to move allocated funds to cover different costs within an event, must be approved by SFB even for allocation below 40 percent of budgeted lines. These votes were made after CUB wanted notes to be only submitted, instead of signed, for allocations below 40 percent of budgeted lines. SFB believes these changes in the expanded base budgeting agreements will make it easier to keep track of various allocations an organization wishes to change. SFB fully funded the Sports Club Advisory Council $125,000
to cover expenses for 22 club sports, soon to be 23 with the addition of men’s club basketball. A four-person student committee from the Sport Club Advisory Council decided how much to request based on its budget proposal. “The decisions were made based on what was thought essential for the ability of the
clubs to function on a day to day basis,” the proposal stated. This budget will help to cover the sports clubs’ total expenses, which total $365,229.31 for the 2018-2019 academic year. The Intramural Sports Club was also fully funded $44,057 for its operating budget. The operating budget is intended to cover
SFB partially funds SG’s 2018-2019 base budget.
the costs of paying student employees and purchase equipment. The majority of the costs cover the payroll for TCNJ EMS and officials who oversee intramural games. Other costs cover National Intramural Association membership fees, Grit ‘N Wit fees, golf league fees and equipment fees.
Meagan McDowell / Photo Editor
May 2, 2018 The Signal page 5
Lab / Faculty desires improvements to Kendall Hall continued from page 1
“This is a flexible, modern learning space that is better designed to fit the changing instructional needs of today’s students,” Cook said. “Here they can have active learning experiences and real opportunities for quality teamwork.” Plans for the lab began in 2015, when the School of Arts and Communication allocated $85,000 for the project, but it was not enough to realize faculty’s vision for the space. “We had to argue for having a lockdown computerbased lab in light of the changing IT policy of the College, which increasingly supports each student bringing their own computer,” D’Angelo said. “There is a notion now that everything is portable, and the lab didn’t conform with that ideology. We needed a physical space where students and faculty can learn and work together.” In March of 2017, the department submitted a proposal for the lab to the Committee of Strategic Planning and Priorities, which allocated $250,000 to fund “innovative, collaborative projects” as part of the “TCNJ 2021: Bolder, Better, Brighter” initiative. The department was overjoyed to receive an additional $42,500 from the CSPP toward the lab, which officially opened in February 2018. Terry Byrne, an associate professor of communication studies, likened the opening of the new lab to the opening of the College’s library in 2005. “The library opening filled a need that students had and the lab was the same,” Byrne said. “Students would always ask, ‘when is it going to open?’ And now it’s open and they’re always there.” He credits the popularity of the room partially to the design, which facilitates conversation and collaboration among students who use it. “The layout is ingenious — there’s no rows of computer stations like in many other computer labs,” Byrne said. “We’re finding the little clusters of four really works well — the structure of the room is all about collaboration.” While faculty and students alike seem to love the new lab, they are not blind to the problems that persist in Kendall Hall. The building was last renovated in 1992, and longtime faculty say that most of the building has
tcnj.edu
The new computer lab enhances students’ learning experience.
remained unchanged since then. “As time goes on the landmark buildings of campus — Kendall, Green Hall and Roscoe West Hall — have become the most dilapidated,” Byrne said. Professor Gary Woodward, who has taught at the College for over 45 years and described Kendall Hall as his “second home,” attested to some of the problems in the building as a whole, such as the leaky windows and high temperatures in many classrooms. “Most of the first floor classrooms are noisy and sometimes hot. The noise problem stems from a problem long neglected by the College,” Woodward said. “The many windows in Kendall Hall are wood, single-pane glass and nearly 90 years old. They are falling apart.” The hot temperatures stem mostly from a heating pipe that runs under the first floor classrooms in Kendall Hall, according to D’Angelo. This makes the temperatures unpleasantly inconsistent, as the first floor rooms are often too hot while secondfloor rooms get cold and drafty because of the leaky windows. “Like all old buildings that have been partly but not completely updated, there are things that remain maddening,”
Woodward said. “My office is cold because of the leaky windows. On a windy day I get a breeze.” According to Woodward, there is also an excess of outside noise that detracts from the learning environment. Most of the noise comes from a mechanical room that sits directly outside Kendall Hall on the side of the Social Sciences Building. “Sealed, insulated and double-glazed windows would cut down on noise coming from the mechanical room well directly outside the windows of Kendall Hall,” Woodward said. “They would also help us better live up to the idea of a campus that is energy-efficient. Few businesses or organizations would try to manage a physical plant with such decrepit windows.” Woodward acknowledged that Kendall Hall also does have its advantages. Besides the lab, the Main Stage and Black Box Theaters are comfortable and the offices in the building are generally larger than those in other buildings on campus. However, the building’s shortcomings continue to hinder the learning process for many. “I think the College invests too little on existing and failing infrastructure,” Woodward said. “Those of us who teach in the building pay the price.”
Princeton student promotes environmental change Speaker encourages students to join research team
Meagan McDowell / Photo Editor
Left: Lu’s work has gained the interest of state legislatures. Right: Lu advocates for implementing policies that prevent climate change. By Emmy Liederman Opinions Editor
After President Donald Trump appointed multiple climate change skeptics to his Cabinet, Jonathan Lu, a senior computer science major at Princeton University, knew he had a duty to advocate for change. Instead of just raising awareness on Princeton’s campus, Lu was determined to make waves on a national level. Lu spoke at the Education Building Room 107 on April 25 to encourage any students who may share his interests to join his research team, which consists of a diverse group of Princeton high school, undergraduate and graduate students who have come together to do something about climate change. Before beginning his efforts last May, Lu was not an environmental specialist — he was just an average student who cared a lot about climate reform and strived to be
politically active. As the research director of the Princeton Student Climate Initiative, he is well on his way of doing just that. “I don’t actually have any formal background on (environmental policy) — people of all backgrounds can help conduct this research,” he said. “This is something that we are desperately understaffed on. There is a lot of research that still needs to be done.” The Princeton Student Climate Initiative advocates for a national carbon and pollution tax policy. Lu believes this tax is a bipartisan solution to climate change that will reduce air pollutant emissions while protecting the economy. The more energy condensed a pollutant is, the more it would be affected by the tax. “Proposing a carbon tax will target fossil fuels, making it more expensive to pollute,” he said. “If you are choosing between using solar or coal to run your powerplant, a carbon tax would put coal at a less competitive price, making it cheaper to use solar.”
Although Lu and his team have dreams of making national change, they know their advocacy must start at the state level. Team members have been working with New Jersey Assemblyman and physicist Andrew Zwicker to develop their ideas into public policy. “We have a few state legislatures that are interested,” Lu said. “Right now, we are trying to talk to a lot of New Jersey environmental groups and get their support before we introduce a bill. Then we can start lobbying our state representatives.” Lu believes that in a state like New Jersey, where residents are deeply affected by and are passionate about climate change, it would not be difficult to garner support for his initiative. “Climate change is really threatening in New Jersey,” he said. “Coastal residents are especially at risk of needing to relocate and fossil fuel emissions are the cause of 8,000 premature deaths in New Jersey each year. If we cut emissions by implementing this
tax, we can improve health and see economic benefits by spending less on asthma and lung cancer treatment.” The plan is also widely favored by economists because the tax revenue is returned to households, according to Lu. The revenue increases disposable income while promoting a environmentally-friendly lifestyle. “This is a just and effective climate policy that incorporates the needs of all communities,” he said. Lu believes that with the support of local politicians, dedicated research and a relentless attitude, his team has a real potential to make environmental change. “With Phil Murphy in office, it is a great time to take leadership on climate change,” he said. “We get really excited by this because it is not just an environmental policy on a college campus — this is affecting the eight million people that live in New Jersey and potentially setting an example for the world.”
page 6 The Signal May 2, 2018
One-woman show illuminates societal issues
Playwright discusses discrimination against minorities By Megan Schilling Correspondent
Students, faculty and other audience members assembled in Kendall Hall on April 25 to witness an acclaimed actress, playwright and educator speak on community, character and diversity. Anna Deavere Smith has created award-winning one-woman shows in which she transforms herself into a number of characters. Her shows explore topics such as social inequality and injustice, as well as the school-to-prison pipeline — the disproportionate likelihood that young adults from disadvantaged backgrounds will become incarcerated. In 2012, Smith was awarded the National Humanities Medal, presented by former President Barack Obama. In 2015, Smith was named the Jefferson Lecturer, the nation’s highest honor in the humanities field. Smith currently appears as Rainbow’s mother, Alicia, on ABC’s hit series “Black-ish” and is recognizable as the hospital administrator on Showtime’s “Nurse Jackie.” Smith began her lecture by taking audience members on her journey through hundreds of conversations that inspired her to write her play, “Notes From The Field,” using each individual encounter as a starting place to delve into the issues of racism and poverty. Time Magazine named her play as one of the Top 10 Plays of 2016 and the MacArthur Foundation honored Smith for creating “a new form of theatre — a blend of theatrical art, social commentary, journalism and intimate reverie.” Smith interviewed almost 250 people
around the country for “Notes from the Field,” but the film focuses on the stories of only 18 of those people. During the event, she brought these stories to life as she expressed each person’s concerns for social issues while in character. Among those she interviewed for her project was Kevin Moore, a Baltimore deli worker who happened to videotape the 2015 beating of Freddie Gray as police dragged him into a van. Gray died a week later from injuries sustained during his arrest. Smith also interviewed more well-known figures such as Georgian civil rights activist and U.S. Representative John Lewis. “I learned to really respect the people I’ve met along this journey,” Smith said. “I began to realize that it is truly the poverty-to-prison pipeline rather than school-to-prison.” Many of the people Smith presented in her play were incarcerated when they were young, and fought for justice in a number of ways. Smith impressed the audience with her ability to perform a wide range of different character monologues all while pushing the larger message of exposing the school-to-prison pipeline and overall injustice in the U.S. Smith, through impression, told the story of Niya Kenny, a high school student in South Carolina who went to jail when she attempted to intervene as a police officer violently disciplined her classmate. “Most people, when they think about the youth in the criminal justice system, seem to think about boys,” Smith said. “Something’s the matter with that. Girls have a story, too.” Smith explained that young people in this country often get in trouble with
Smith delves into the issues of racism and poverty.
police simply for running their mouths and having an attitude, but not for committing a crime. When asked how she filtered out over 300 hours of material in order to film the movie and chose which people she wanted to emphasize in the play, Smith discussed how important the power of the story was along with how it was told. Smith explained that sometimes the
Kim Iannarone / Staff Photographer
way people speak can narrate their story better than anything else, because it adds a relatable, emotional aspect. This is why she takes on their speech and character in order to grasp the full effect. “I really pick the moments in that the people are talking, but for me they start to sing,” Smith said. “That’s my metaphor. They start to speak in very particular and creative ways.”
Students make case against Bible Believers
Religious group sparks debate on First Amendment By Grant Playter Staff Writer Members of the radical religious group, Bible Believers came to the College on April 12, wielding signs that displayed hateful and discriminatory language. “Jesus or hellfire,” “Women belong in the kitchen” and “Feminists are whores,” were just a few of the many signs the Believers held as they spouted their rhetoric to an angry crowd of students. Lost in the anger felt by members of the campus community, however, are the numerous infractions against campus policy committed by the Bible Believers during their tenure on campus. Two students did not want these infractions to be pushed under the rug. Alina Osborn, a junior biology major, and Emily Zbyszynski, a junior English major, compiled a 10page document outlining campus policy and the infractions the Bible Believers committed shortly after the group first visited the campus. The majority of their document concerns Title IX violations. Title IX is a policy which prohibits sexual assault, dating and domestic violence, sexual harassment, stalking and other power based personal violence. Osborn and Zbyszynski asserted
Students passionately protest the Bible Believers. the Bible Believers committed acts considered to be sexual harassment, which included telling women they deserve to be raped, referring to students as “vagina lickers,” and in one instance, calling a student a “cum-guzzling faggot.” The group frequently targeted students’ ethnicity, religion and sexuality, and these remarks were logged in the report. A survey measuring students’ reactions to the protest received
112 total responses, however, Qualtrics flagged 43 responses as spam. Therefore, data was only taken from the remaining 69 responses. 56 percent of respondents felt personally “victimized, harassed or otherwise put in a hostile environment” by the group, while 77 percent stated that they knew someone who fell in that category. Additionally, 61 percent of respondents felt that the group did not act in a manner that should
Miguel Gonzalez / Sports Editor
have allowed them to return to campus, and 19 percent of respondents to the same question felt that they probably should not be allowed to return. Notably, 40 percent of respondents felt specifically that the group “definitely did not” act in compliance with campus policy in their demonstration, with an additional 15 percent stating that they “probably did not” act in compliance. Kerri Thompson-Tillett, the
associate vice president and chief diversity officer at the College, offered some insights on campus policy –– while members of the campus community have to be mindful of their speech, that same rule does not extend to outsiders. “I can’t enforce that policy against people that are not members of our community,” Thompson-Tillett said. Since the College is a public school, it must allow public access to its campus. According to the survey, 95 percent of the students who responded said they were made aware that the College is a public campus after the Bible Believers had arrived. 77 percent also stated they were familiar with the distinction between how public and private colleges handle group demonstrations. The survey showed that only 53 percent of respondents were slightly or completely unfamiliar with the College’s policy, while 16 percent were extremely or very familiar with the College’s policy. The results demonstrate the problems presented by the Bible Believers in defining their presence on campus, the resulting outcry from students and the tough position the College’s administration was put in. see SPEECH page 9
May 2, 2018 The Signal page 7
Labor / Maintenance workers feel disrespected
Workers say that understaffing takes a toll on their job performance.
continued from page 1
A major concern among some of the workers is the fact that they are referred to by the College’s administration as “porters,” which is a term that they find to be offensive. “They like about five or six people working on the academic side (during the day) that they call porters,” Worker One said. Worker Two described the perception of the word “porters” among some of the building services workers as a “slave word.” “We’re not porters — a porter is like somebody that hands out tissues,” Worker Two said. “They’ll stand there, hand you tissue, lotion — stuff like that after you wash your hands.” Both workers expressed that building services workers attempted to meet with the College’s human resources office in regards to the issue, but nothing came out of it. “I was not aware that the use of the word ‘porters’ is considered offensive by some staff,” Heuring said. Heuring described the workers’ interpretation of the term “porter” as different from the College’s interpretation. “A quick Google search of the term ‘porter’ yielded this and many similar descriptions.‘Porters are often the unseen heroes of a facility. These valued team members clean, but they also help support the image of your facility and ensure that customers, employees and tenants are satisfied,’” Heuring said. Heuring’s definition was obtained from a janitorial and cleaning services blog. He said that if an individual wished to register an objection to the use of the term, the College’s Administration would be able to give them a different title. The workers not only find the term offensive, but also feel that they are being discriminated by Patricia Smith, the director of buildings and grounds. Smith made a comment that Worker Three perceived to be racist while she was interviewing someone for a supervisor position, according to Worker Three.
“(The applicant) called me, he said, ‘Yeah, I don’t think I’m gonna take the job, but Patty asked me to come ‘pull the whip out’ on y’all,’” Worker Three said. Worker One and Worker Three said that they have noticed an increase in suspensions since Smith started working at the College in March 2017. Both workers say that she typically suspends people for something that did not happen on her watch. According to Worker Four, an African-American worker was sitting down showing coworkers how to fix a vacuum cleaner, and someone told Smith that they had been sitting in lounge chairs not doing anything. Smith told the workers they would face discipline for this incident. However, another Caucasian worker who Smith had seen pictures of sleeping on multiple occasions has not seen disciplinary action, according to Worker Four. “How you go about on somebody (else’s) word, when a supervisor (has) pictures of another worker sleeping multiple times?” Worker Four said. Worker Three added that when Smith first came to the College, many workers wanted to meet with her. Smith declined to meet with all of the workers at once, which offended many of them. “Patty doesn’t want us in a bunch,” Worker Two said. “Like you can’t take all of us black people at one time? And that’s how we all feel about that.” The workers explained another instance when they felt Smith looked down on them, specifically when they attended a retirement breakfast for College President R. Barbara Gitenstein. “Patty was seeing all of the building service workers in the room and she like bypassed us,” Worker Two said. “Ain’t say ‘Hi, cat, dog — nothing,’ and started straight talking to the big people like we didn’t even exist.” Worker Two said that both Gitenstein and Heuring talked to them during the event, and did not understand why Smith did not do the same. “It’s like the bigger people
Lily Firth / Features Editor
don’t know too much of what’s going on here,” Worker Two said. The workers feel that part of the problem is that there is no line of communication between them and Smith. “No, she don’t speak to us. She treat us like we’re dirt. I think she’s very prejudiced,” Worker Two said. Heuring said that depending on its nature, a complaint is usually handled by the supervisor, director or associate vice president of administration along with human resources. “While I would expect to be notified of any serious, systemic issues, as several hundred employees work in my division, I am not typically notified about routine complaints made by building maintenance workers,” Heuring said. The workers have also expressed their concerns regarding understaffing to their supervisors, who then reached out to Smith through email, but the workers have not seen any changes. According to the workers, there are three shifts for maintenance employees. The first shift is from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., the second shift is from 4:30 p.m. to
1 a.m. and the third shift is from 10 p.m. to 6:30 a.m. The workers said that there is a problem with people calling out of work frequently, and they feel that part of the reason why is that Smith does not handle the schedule properly. “We’re understaffed,” Worker One said. “It takes a toll on me. It just wears you down — it’s a lot.” Worker One feels that a lot of people call out for the overnight shift, which is the third shift of the day. She said that there is no one around to clean the academic buildings during the weekend, so that when the night shift workers come in on Sunday night, there is extra work that has to be done. Worker One also said that the workers were tricked into working the overnight shift. “They said it was gonna be a trial thing, we was gonna try it out for three months and then after the three month, you know, it was supposed to go back and we’re still here,” Worker One said. In addition to understaffing, the workers feel that the changes Smith wants create an unsafe work environment. “She’s trying to force team cleaning — you can’t get 15 people in one building to clean one building,” Worker Three said. “It’s like she’s trying to create a hostile work environment.” Worker One and Worker Three both expressed that they experienced team cleaning twice and they were not given direction on who was responsible for each task. Additionally, both workers said that they would typically be able to stay in one building during the entirety of their shift, but with team cleaning they would have to walk between buildings. “If you do teamwork that means you gotta leave outta these buildings and walk from building to building and the weather is bad outside and this lady don’t care so you in a no-win situation,” Worker One said. On top of worrying about the weather, the workers also fear encountering wild animals during the night shifts when walking between buildings.
“When you got a wild fox, you know there’s a lot of chances you’re taking,” Worker One said in reference to a recent incident where she spotted a sick fox on campus. “And not only the wild fox, but then you got human animals too you gotta be careful about. I mean, let’s be realistic, this is a public college.” According to Article 26A of the Local 195, IFPTE contract, “The State shall continue to make reasonable provisions for the safety and health of its employees during the hours of their employment and will continue to provide appropriate safety devices and equipment for their protection and to provide a reasonably safe and healthful place of employment.” When asked about the concerns the workers have about Smith, Heuring said, “In fairness to and respect for our employees, the College does not comment upon individual personnel matters.” Smith also declined to comment. According to the workers, the College’s chapter president of Local 195, IFPTE, Timothy Marsh, is responsible for making sure that the workers’ concerns are expressed to Smith and dealt with. However, some of the workers feel that Marsh does not accurately represent their voice. “We already complained to Tim,” Worker Two said. “We went to Tim about everything. It’s just like he don’t … whatever Patty says, it goes. It’s like he’s not putting up a fight like at all. We supposed to agree stuff. We don’t even agree stuff. When you in a union, you supposed to agree a lot of stuff.” Worker Two believes that Smith is fond of Marsh mostly because he does not read the paperwork she gives to him, according to Worker Two. “When he get in front of me and I put the pressure on him, he’s like, ‘Oh, I didn’t read and I’m sorry and all this,’” Worker Two said. “No, you gotta read everything because she could be saying we’re out of a job, and he doesn’t read it.” see WORKER page 9
Lily Firth / Features Editor
Some workers do not feel comfortable walking to and from buildings at night.
page 8 The Signal May 2, 2018
May 2, 2018 The Signal page 9
Speech / Protest leads to review of campus policy
Meagan McDowell / Photo Editor
Left: Ross stomps on a pride flag. Right: The Bible Believers spread controversial messages on campus. continued from page 6 College Spokesman Dave Muha emphasized how universal the freedom of speech is. “The freedom of speech is a constitutionally guaranteed right, so that’s the law of the land,” Muha said. “What the Bible Believers were saying — again, I don’t condone it, I don’t subscribe to it, but I do recognize that I can go to NYC and hear that same kind of message as I’m walking through Times Square. It’s protected speech in Times Square, it’s protected speech here.” According to Muha, the vetting process for groups who wish to use campus grounds is an application indicating what the grounds will be used for and for how long. There is no censure of topics because, as a public space, the First Amendment protects groups from that censure. “Was what the BB saying against the values of the institution? Absolutely. Can
I understand that some students were upset what they heard? Absolutely, But nonetheless, based on the law of the land the determination by those at the site was that what was being said did not rise to the level of harassment as defined by the law of the country. That, I think, is the distinction,” Muha said. Muha explained that while what the group was saying was objectionable, it did not fall within the boundaries of harassment, as its legally defined, by the various police agencies at the demonstration, which include campus, Ewing and State Police. “A lot of (the discussion) centers around the notion that students feel harassed, that the BB were harassing students,” Muha said. “In the instance of those two protests, if you will, police on the grounds had to make a determination based on what they were observing and how that relates to freedom of speech protected by the constitution.” Muha, along with Thompson-Tillett, repeatedly and vehemently disavowed the
group, but also maintained that the Bible Believers complied with requests from administration and did not directly threaten the safety of students during both incidents. “I would say that there’s a difference between feeling safe and feeling comfortable.” Muha said. “I don’t feel that at any point in time, on either visit of the Bible Believers, that anybody was unsafe … there was a lot of attention given to make sure there was separation between the BB and the members of our community.” After the incident, administration and students alike are attempting their own methods of action. “We are looking to bring somewhat of a First Amendment, free speech expert to campus before graduation because members of the community are really interested in these issues,” Thompson-Tillett said. “While we know a lot, we are not the experts, so we thought it would be a good idea to bring someone on campus who can speak squarely to these issues within the
Grace Gottshling / Staff Photographer
context of higher education.” While Thompson-Tillett’s policy evaluation may not lead to a ban on the Bible Believers, Osborn is looking to strengthen support for student diversity. “A friend and classmate of mine are attempting to bring an LGBTQ+ resource center to campus,” Osborn said. “Next semester we will be doing independent research with the Office of Diversity and Inclusion in attempts to further this.” Among the many ideas for the LGBTQ+ resource center are additional psychological counseling services for LGBTQ+ students who may not feel comfortable going to Counseling and Psychological Services, as well as specific health services such as hormone treatments for transgender individuals. “At this time we don’t know the exact timeline over which this would occur,” Osborn said. “It might end up being more like buffing the Office of Diversity itself so it’s more equipped to deal with these sort of issues.”
Worker / Building Services staff expresses discontent continued from page 7
The workers expressed that private conversations they had with Marsh were not kept confidential and that everything they expressed to him would go right back to Smith. “He’s not a mediator at all,” Worker One said. “He’s a tattletale 100 percent.” Marsh declined to be interviewed. According to Steve Pinto, the presidential assistant and election committee chairperson for Local 195, IFPTE, each chapter of Local 195, IFPTE has a president, vice president, secretary, treasurer and sergeant in arms. He said that chapter presidents are usually elected and that elections take place every two years. “Tim Marsh was the vice president and unfortunately, due to the death of the president who was serving, Tim Marsh automatically is put into the position — that is if he accepts it,” Pinto said. “That’s the way the bylaws read.” Worker Two said that the College’s elected chapter president of Local 195, IFPTE, John Leonard, passed away toward the end of 2017. Pinto said that any candidate for a chapter position would have to be on the ballot and need only one nomination, as well as a second to that nomination, in order to be elected. “There is an internal process if an individual feels they are not being represented properly,” Pinto said. However, when asked about what the internal process is, he did not answer and could not find a colleague to give a more descriptive answer, either. In regards to the workers’ problems with their union representative, Heuring said that it is not the College’s place to get involved. “Members of the local union elect their officers and
Lily Firth / Features Editor
Workers say that they have been unable to meet with Smith in her Wolfe Hall office.
those members can raise any concerns they have about an officer’s performance directly with the union leadership,” Heuring said. “It would be inappropriate for management to get involved in assessing a union officer’s performance.” Kerri Thompson Tillett, the College’s associate vice president and chief diversity officer of human resources, explained to The Signal that in the case of discrimination, an employee can come to her and file a report. After she is issued a complaint, she would review it to see if it violates the College’s policy. If she finds that it is in violation of the policy, she would
then initiate an investigation and provide a report to the president of the College. She added that if criminal charges are involved, the employee is referred to Campus Police. “Investigations are to be completed within 120 days, but can be extended for an additional 60 days based upon the circumstances of the complaint,” Tillett said. The workers said that they had gone to human resources with some of their complaints, but never felt that the issues were resolved. “They treat us like we’re the lowest people at the College because of our job title,” Worker Three said.
page 10 The Signal May 2, 2018
Nation & W rld
Southwest Airlines engine failure kills passenger By Rebecca Colnes Staff Writer
Southwest Airlines is receiving backlash after an engine failure on Southwest Flight 1380 killed one person and injured seven more on April 17, according to The New York Times. The Boeing 737-700 was on its way to Dallas from New York City, but made an emergency landing in Philadelphia about 40 minutes into the flight, according to CNN. Passenger Jennifer Riordan was partially sucked out of the plane when debris moving at high speeds blew out the window. She was pulled back in, but died at a Philadelphia hospital from blunt trauma to her head, neck and torso, according to CNN. A single fast-rotating fan blade from inside the engine broke off due to weakening of the blade metal, according to The Wall Street Journal. After the window was shattered, the cabin was depressurized for 20 minutes as
wind and debris swirled around passengers. The plane quickly descended, but the pilots managed to level the aircraft as it successfully made an emergency landing at Philadelphia International Airport, according to The New York Times. Flight captain Tammie Jo Shultz flew the plane with only one engine. Shultz was one of the Navy’s first female pilots during a time when women were not allowed to serve in combat. She kept calm throughout the incident, according to The New York Times. Around 11:20 a.m., the plane landed in Philadelphia to applause from passengers who informed their friends and families by phone that they were OK. Riordan was taken to the hospital while flight attendants assisted other passengers with minor injuries, according to The New York Times. Southwest Airlines sent letters to passengers expressing “sincere apologies,” according to CNN. Included in the envelope was a check for $5,000 to cover immediate financial needs and a travel
The flight captains make an emergency landing in Philadelphia. voucher worth $1,000. Airlines have previously given passengers money in traumatic situations, according to CNN transportation analyst Mary Schiavo. “It gets money in the hands of people that need counseling or something,” Schiavo said. This accident happened two days after the plane passed visual inspections, according to The New York Times.
AP Photo
The engine failure is being investigated by the National Transportation Security Board. The board is still looking for debris from the engine. Data from the airplane’s cockpit voice recorder and flight data recorder is being reviewed, according to The New York Times. Southwest Airlines has canceled dozens of flights to allow time for engine inspections in light of the incident, according to NBC.
North Korea takes first step toward denuclearization foreign policy and nuclear defense programs on April 21, when Kim Jong-un declared that he will end nuclear and missile testing, according to Foreign Policy. The country’s decision to suspend nuclear tests and missile launches came at a plenary meeting of the Central Committee on April 20, according to The Guardian. President Donald Trump considered North Korea’s new commitment to denuclearization an easy victory for the U.S. “Wow, we haven’t given up anything & they have agreed to denuclearization (so great for World), site closure, & no more testing!” Trump tweeted. Kim hinted that while programs are being suspended, he does not intend to give up his nuclear arsenal any time soon, according to The Wall Street Journal. Kim also announced that the country will pause their nuclear weapons tests. Kim referred to his nuclear program as a “powerful treasured sword” in the notes of the third plenary meeting of the Seventh Central AP Photo Committee of the Workers’ Party of Korea, according Kim vows to cease its nuclear testing. to KCNA Watch. By Megan Mayernik It is still uncertain whether or not the North Korean Staff Writer leader will stick to his word on this decision, as some analysts greeted this announcement with caution since North Korea announced important changes to its Kim has violated previous nuclear deals, according to
The Guardian. Analysts also pointed out that Kim’s announcement did not mention North Korea’s “shorter-range ballistic missiles, capable of striking Japan and South Korea,” according to The Guardian. Federica Mogherini, the European Union’s foreign affairs chief, said that the move was part of a long process that must eventually lead to the country’s “complete, verifiable and irreversible denuclearization,” according to The Guardian. Kim stated that halting the country’s nuclear testing “is an important process for the world-wide disarmament” and pledged that North Korea would refuse to share its nuclear knowledge with other countries under any circumstances. He also made sure to note that “North Korea wouldn’t use its nuclear weapons unless provoked,” according to The Wall Street Journal. In the early stages of talk about North Korea’s denuclearization, Kim originally demanded an end to the U.S. military presence on the Korean Peninsula in exchange for his country’s denuclearization, according to The Wall Street Journal. North Korea later dropped this demand before Kim met with Trump and South Korean President Moon Jae-in to discuss denuclearization, according to CNN.
Violent protests against federal policy changes erupt in Nicaragua By Danielle Silvia Copy Editor Violent protests have been erupting throughout Nicaragua since April 18, according to The New York Times. The Nicaraguan government reported that at least 10 people have died and 100 people have been injured, according to BBC. However, the Nicaraguan Center for Human Rights reported 43 deaths as a result of the protests, according to CNN. This series of protests has become the most prevalent since the end of the country’s civil war more than 30 years ago, according to The New York Times. The protesters, largely composed of college students and pensioners, ventured out of the capital city Managua into several other cities. Government buildings have been set ablaze, according to BBC. Troops were deployed in several
cities to protect some government buildings, according to Univision. Among the dead were two protesters, a policeman and a journalist covering the event for a local newspaper, according to CNN. Recent changes to the social security policy have focused on increasing the pension contributions for employers and the reduction of overall benefits. Under the new changes, the benefits retired workers receive through their pensions will decrease by up to 5 percent, according to The New York Times. The new changes will take effect on July 1, according to BBC. “If in the talks we find a better way of carrying out these reforms, this decree can be amended or replaced by a new one,” said Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega, according to BBC. The U.S. State Department supports the peaceful resolution that the Nicaraguan government is working toward by openly talking with the
Protesters demand that Ortega step down from the presidency.
protesters to stop the violence, according to CNN. “We condemn the violence and the excessive force used by police and others against civilians who are exercising their constitutional right to freedom of expression and assembly,” said State Department
spokeswoman Heather Nauert in a statement, according to CNN. The protests have garnered worldwide attention on social media. A Nicaraguan reporter was killed while filming the violent events on Facebook Live, according to The New York Times.
AP Photo
The violence reached a peak on April 20 in several cities across Nicaragua, however, by the next morning, the Nicaraguan government appeared to have some control over the situation. Army troops have been deployed to Managua, according to BBC.
May 2, 2018 The Signal page 11
Editorial
Support from others provides valuable perspective
This past year has without a doubt been the busiest time of my life. Leading the production of a newspaper, with the support of an amazing, award-winning staff, has presented dozens of conflicts and situations that I never could have predicted. Though the time has flown by, it has been a remarkable experience that has taught me volumes about life and reminded me that wisdom can be found in the most unlikely places. “Sometimes I go about in pity for myself, and all the while, a great wind carries me across the sky.” This is a saying attributed to the Ojibwe Native American tribe. It is also a quotation that has ceased to leave my mind since the first time I heard it. I’ll be honest — I don’t know anything about the origin of the saying, or about the Ojibwe, other than that they lived around what is now southeastern Canada. I heard this phrase from an episode of “The Sopranos.” To give some relatively spoiler-free context, mafia boss Tony Soprano is recovering in the hospital after a near fatal injury, and finds that quote pinned to the wall of his room. At first, Tony thinks it’s bullshit, and I know people who have expressed a similar opinion. One of my roommates said it sounded “depressing,” like someone was just getting miserably pushed through their existence, but I think he missed the point. Despite our constant efforts toward the contrary, life can be lousy sometimes. Whether due to things totally out of our control, repercussions from our own mistakes or just plain old bad luck, many of us do indeed go about in pity for ourselves. Our student’s body’s rate of depression matches the national average for college students at nearly 39 percent, and the rate of anxiety is even higher, at 56 percent. Although it’s not the most fun or common topic of conversation, it’s safe to say that there is no shortage of negative feelings on the average college campus. That’s where the “great wind” part comes in. I would be lying if I said I haven’t felt depressed once in a while during my time at the College, but the biggest lie that I ever tried to convince myself of — and one that I have found to be unexpectedly common — is that I am alone in dealing with my problems. Simply put, there is no one who is completely unloved. Even some of the worst people in history still had friends and companions who cared about and supported them. We all have friends, family, coworkers and others who have nothing but support to offer when we need it. It could be your real family, an organization like The Signal in my case, your community or the world at large, but we’re all part of something bigger than us. Perspective is a wonderful thing, and it can be tough in the midst of misfortune to recognize and acknowledge the multitude of ways in which the people we care about support us. Sometimes while ranting to friends for an extended time about my own problems, I realize that I’m fortunate just to have people that care enough to listen. Tony eventually came to admire the quotation, and would often repeat it in moments when he wanted to sound profound, but I don’t think he ever really got it either. He did peyote in Las Vegas with his nephew’s mistress and thought he got it, but he was never able to appreciate the true source of the wind carrying him. He continued to neglect his wife, and betrays his close friends for petty and selfish reasons. Though I’ll rarely say it out loud, I love my friends and my family very much. I always try my best to be a good friend and person, but they are often much kinder and more generous toward me than I am to them. So thank you, to all the people who have helped me be a good friend, editor and leader. It’s because of you all that I know whenever I’m in doubt, all I have to do is lean back and let the wind carry me. — Thomas Infante Editor-in-Chief
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.
Appreciating love from friends and family is important during difficult times.
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“Most people, when they think about the youth in the criminal justice system, seem to think about boys. Something’s the matter with that. Girls have a story, too.” —Anna Deavere Smith Journalist and Playwright
Correction
In an opinion piece published on April 25 titled “Silencing opposing views obstructs free speech,” it was inaccurately mentioned that a Students for Life member asked the students taking down the flags if it would be acceptable to tear down pride flags in front of PRISM. In reality, one of the students who was taking down the flags asked if they should bring a pride flag to an unrelated protest, and Students for Life did not comment on anything having to do with the pride flag or the unrelated protest.
page 12 The Signal May 2, 2018
Arts & Entertainment
Song / Music department celebrates century milestone
Randell Carrido / Staff Photographer
Students deliver an enchanting anniversary concert performance.
continued from page 1
The music kept the audience in tight suspense. Husa replicated the inspiration of his song perfectly, and the wind ensemble performed the tension of Prague falling under the Russians and martial law exquisitly with soft playing, tense silence and cacophonous eruptions of sound. Michael Catherine Isnardi came to see his daughter,
sophomore music education major Sophia Isnardi, play the flute. Michael Isnardi commented on how well the pieces represented musical styles over the years. “It really gave homage to WWI,” Michael Isnardi said. “All the instrumentalists and featured soloists are doing an absolute fabulous job.” After an intermission, the TCNJ Collegium Musicum captivated the audience with a
range of songs. Junior English major Julien Blanchard was the selfdescribed scat soloist for the most light-hearted piece of the night, “My Bonnie Lass She Smelleth” by P.D.Q. Bach. Blanchard would close his eyes and keep vocalizing by himself, long after his fellow chorale members had stopped to stare at him until Blanchard caught on. The vocalists would sing as
if they were at at a formal ball, “She looketh like a jewel,” then switch into singing as if they were in a rowdy tavern, “and smelleth like a mule.” The next piece took itself more seriously. “Past Life Melodies” was a departure into pure sound with only ethereal vocalizations that echoed throughout the theatre. “It was pure music,” said Jason Lubrano (’04), an alumnus collaborative pianist at the College. Lubrano has accompanied several of the College’s Chorale’s renditions. John P. Leonard, the director of choral activities, chose the repertoire that would best showcase the students’ talents and show off the chorale’s versatility. “The vocal groups and group harmonies were very tight,” Isnardi said. “The dynamics were very expressive.” Meaghanne McBride, a sophomore music major, enjoyed being an audience member that night. “My brain is melting — in a good way,” McBride said about the energy and passion displayed at the student showcase concert. Suzanne Pickman, the coordinator of vocal studies, made a toast to the music department at the reception in the Brower Student Center after Friday’s performance. Pickman has worked at the College for 34 years.
Pickman first raised her glass of champagne to the students “for confounding us, for giving us someone to teach.” The next day, the Kendall Main Stage Theatre was almost completely packed for the final event, a gala. Audience members stood as the chorus and orchestra finished off the two-day event with the College’s “Alma Mater” by Franklin Grapel. Chris Cancglin was extremely excited to be a part of the performance as a freshman music education major. “Being able to perform with alumni … and over 150 people was like an astonishing experience,” Cancglin said. “It was an amazing getting to see alumni come back.” Barbara Santoro, a member of the gala’s planning committee, hoped that the event would further connect the College’s undergraduates and alumni relationship through the music department. “It was not only exciting, it was beautifully done,” Santoro said. Maurice Hall, the dean of the School of Arts and Communication, appreciated the performances as well and was able to provide positive feedback. “Thrilling, moving and really wonderful,” Hall said. “I look forward to a hundred more years of exactly this kind of virtuoso performance from the music department.”
Treblemakers empower women during spring concert By Samantha Malnick Staff Writer
The College’s only all female a capella group, the Treblemakers, came out with a bang at their Spring 2018 concert on Sunday, April 29 in Mayo Concert Hall. Coordinated in black and green, the ladies started off strong with their performance of “Salute,” originally by girl-band Little Mix. The lyrics, “Representing all the women, salute salute...It’s who we are, we don’t need no camouflage,” set the scene for the audience, and gave them a taste of what the Trebs are about. Alyssa Fanelli, music director of the Treblemakers and junior math secondary education major, had exciting news about this year’s performance. “Each one of our members is being featured in the concert in some way,” said Fanelli. “We are really able to showcase the amazingly talented girls we have in our group.” From country, to pop, Broadway and even improv, the show really had it all. Danielle DeFlores, a junior biology major, had the group grooving during her solo performance of “Cheap Thrills” by Sia. Her group mates brought the clout of the well-known pop song through their rhythmic snapping and clapping with nothing but giant grins across each of their faces. Next came freshman psychology and early childhood education dual major Sydney McGowan who sent chills down
the audience’s spines. Each year, the Trebs include a Disney or Broadway song in their lineup. Performing “She Used to Be Mine from the musical,” Waitress, McGowan had the audience in awe with her powerful vocals and soothing harmonies. “Sydney is out of this world,” said Emma Eisenbeil, a member of Trebs and a freshman English secondary education major. McGowan’s solo was one of Eisenbeil’s favorite parts of the set –– it tugged at her “musical theatre heartstrings”. Before working into the second half of their concert, the Treblemakers got the audience involved in the performance, asking for suggestions for improv. Disney and girl-bands were two of the big responses that the Trebs received. Eisenbeil killed it as she let out some beats for the improv sessions, which she admitted was her first time beatboxing. The tunes were innovative and fresh. They began with a remix of Disneys Aladdin hit, “A Whole New World,” and transitioned into “Halo” by Beyonce. Even the performers were feeling the vibe, as someone slipped a “damn” into the mic. The Trebs made power moves during their next song, where they performed “Will The Circle Be Unbroken,” a song about women coming together. Three soloists, sophomore Julia Lombardi, freshman international studies major Klaudia Stanislawski, and history major Emma Eisenbiel began the performance at the front of the stage, and then worked
Meagan McDowell / Photo Editor
The Treblemakers sing music from a variety of genres. their way into the ‘circle’ of their peers, representing how they always come together as one. The next performance was dedicated to Treblemaker alumnae. Before the start of the performance, Day presented a bouquet to Trebs senior engineering major and president, Korina Stelzenmueller, to honor her hard work and dedication to the group. Stelzenmueller then welcomed the alumni to join the Treblemakers on the stage, to perform their annual
performance of “And So It Goes” by Billy Joel. Melanie Muñoz (’16) and former member of the Treblemakers, has come back to perform for her third time since graduating from The College. “It’s always so nice to come back,” says Muñoz. “You always see people that you know— there’s still girls that were in the Treblemakers when I was there. It’s so amazing to see them and support them, and I’m so proud to see how far they’ve come.”
May 2, 2018 The Signal page 13
IMM showcase highlights creativity By Ariel Steinsaltz Staff Writer
Senior art and interactive multimedia students presented their capstone projects at a showcase in the Art and Interactive Multimedia building on Friday, April 27. Seniors presented 37 projects on the first and second floors of the IMM building between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. Among the projects were a live-taped podcast, a virtual reality presentation, several animations and various interactive displays. Ross Brody, a sophomore interactive multimedia major, was most interested in seeing the pinball machine that was built from scratch. “I wanted to see what other people made so when I make my senior project I can get a scope of the ideas,” Brody said. The pinball machine, created by Michael Martin and Dustin Guillemin, was called “Turbo Pinball Ultra” and was inspired by a pinball museum in Asbury Park. The project features images of space and the player’s score displayed. The projections were made using Unity, a 3-D game development program. Another project on display was “15 Faces in the Forest,” by Chelsea Cariota, an interactive story in the style of a chooseyour-own-adventure book played on a computer, though there was also a physical book made for display. The cover art and story were designed by Cariota, an interactive multimedia and English double major, with her combination of multimedia and literary skills. The story involved the main character wandering in a forest, and was programmed using a free software called Twine that designs
This week, WTSR’s Sean Reis highlights some of the best new albums that the College’s own radio station, 91.3 FM WTSR, puts into its weekly rotation.
Students integrate technology into their projects. interactive stories. Other displays included a board game similarly modeled to that of Dungeons and Dragons called “Monsters and Mayhem” by Jonathan Sayre and Anthony Defilippo. “D&D is really fun, but it’s really complicated and hard to get into,” Sayre said. “We wanted to simplify that.” The game has a fantasy setting and a hero and anti-hero players who attempt to eliminate each other. Three of the projects on display were crowned winners by the panel of judges present, and the victorious creators were given prizes. There were three judges at the panel. One was Will Richardson, a former teacher who is now a blogger. Another was Alice Cahn, a former vice president at Cartoon Network. The third judge was Sorraya Brashear-Evans (’16), an alumna who graduated with a double major in interactive multimedia and journalism and professional writing, and now works for CBS.
Maggie Paragian / Staff Photograher
Haley Witko’s stop motion animation project titled, “R.A.D.I.S.H.,” features a creation that includes 300 photos about a boy who does not know he is a robot, was selected as a winner by the judges. The project began with concept art, and then the set was built and developed from scratch. “I really like sci-fi,” Witko said. “I also really like the idea of an underdog.” The other projects that were selected by the judges were “Inner Speaker” by Jillian Festa and “Monkey See, Monkey Doom” by Austin Merritt. All of the judges expressed that virtual reality and augmented reality are the most prevalent aspects of technology. These devices date back to the early 1990s. Brashear-Evans mentioned that CBS is beginning to implement AR in the company. “The world is becoming more visual,” Richardson said. “If you’re not using technology to solve real-world problems, you’re kind of wasting the opportunity.”
Mixed Signals unplugs after dark
The troupe fondly imitates its president. By Kyle Elphick Staff Writer
Mixed Signals, the College’s improvesation comedy troupe, embraced the lewd and profane at their show on Sunday, April 29 in the Library Auditorium. Starting at 8 p.m., the group framed its UNPLUGGED event as an “after-dark” performance, allowing members to quench their typical humor with content and language not safe for work. “What makes the themed show special is that it allows the improvisers to operate in a more liberal mindset,” said Paul Chukrallah, a junior interdisciplinary business major and treasurer of Mixed Signals. “Where in some situations a performer would develop their character in a more conservative manner, this show was a challenge for all of us to push the envelope as well as push
our own limits without being gratuitously lewd.” The Mixed Signals often dress up to a theme for every show, and this show was no exception. The troupe surprised its outgoing president, Nolan DeVoe, a senior communication studies major, by donning outfits emblematic of his style and personality. Two members even wore striped ambassador shirts, referencing DeVoe’s on-campus job. “(DeVoe) loved it and was enjoying all of our different takes on his wardrobe choice,” said Zach Michonski, a freshman civil engineering major and firstyear member of the troupe. After DeVoe’s introductory remarks, the troupe sprang into the improv comedy that the show’s enthusiastic audience had come to see. The group practiced their short-form improv, which involves performances of brief scenes from improv games.
Natalie La Spisa / Staff Photographer
Each game sports a particular gimmick and set of rules, giving most scenes a predetermined general premise that the troupe fleshes out with hilarious results. Audience participation is also key to any Mixed Signals show. Most scenes begin with a single word shouted to the troupe from the audience by someone in the crowd. “Audience suggestions are what make a show,” Chukrallah said. “The fact that they can give us any word and we have to just roll with it cements the fact that what the audience is about to see has never been done before and is totally made up on the spot with no prior rehearsals or preparation.” Among various games, the crowd was treated to a Mixed Signals classic in World’s Worst. Involving every member on stage, the troupe acted out the world’s worst practitioners of
various professions. Preparation for this game started before the show began. As audience members arrived, they were encouraged to write down a profession on a list in the Library Auditorium lobby. From these, DeVoe would announce a profession, and each member of the troupe would take a crack at portraying someone particularly bad at it in a few short seconds. For instance, when DeVoe said “detective,” Haley Witko, a senior interactive multimedia major and troupe veteran, mimed gazing into a crystal ball and said, “I see fifty bucks in my pocket.” The creative quip earned a raucous pop of laughter from the audience. “I like how fast-paced it is,” said Stephanie Sonbati, a freshman English major and a first-year Mixed Signals member. “It’s super cool when you get the audience to laugh at something you just thought of right off the top of your head.” The Mixed Signals ended the night with a crowd-favorite, Crazyprov. The game flexes the group’s creative muscles through crafting a scene that utilizes the gimmicks of every game played throughout the evening. The troupe also made references to the audience’s favorite bits of the show. “I like Crazyprov because it is the most unpredictable game of all,” Michonski said. “It allows for everything that is fun in other scenes to be mashed into one crazy super scene.”
Band Name: Flyte Album Name: The Loved Ones Release Number: First Hailing From: London Genre: Refined indie rock Label: Island UK Flyte’s debut album is beyond impressive. The band has crafted a refined and smart sound that most groups don’t seem to obtain until a second or third release. The songs are reminiscent of bands like Spoon or Bombay Bicycle Club, yet at times it even feels as though the band is channeling Billie Joel with piano driven songs and powerful vocals. This album should be enjoyable for anyone but will definitely appeal more to those who are interested in hearing more bands channel a classic rock sound while still making indie music. Must Hear: “Victoria Falls,” and “Sliding Doors”
Band Name: Django Django Album Name: Marble Skies Release Number: Third Hailing From: Dundee, UK Genre: Electronic rock Label: Because Records Marble Skies is the exciting third release by U.K. band Django Django, which does a fantastic job of making some trippy and weird indie rock. This album channels the same psychedelic pop sound that they had on their critically acclaimed self-titled debut. Django Django does a very impressive job making wildly catchy tunes out of songs that are still very trippy. This album is full of fun songs with some crazy production all over the record, and was also able to reach number 25 on UK album charts. Go give it a play. Must Hear: “Tick Tac Toe,” “Sundials,” and “In Your Beat.”
page 14 The Signal May 2, 2018
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May 2, 2018 The Signal page 15
The Signal
Opinions
Lamar breaks mold with Pulitzer Prize By Jada Grisson
On April 16, hip-hop artist Kendrick Lamar won the esteemed Pulitzer Prize for music, making him the first artist not belonging to either the jazz or classical genre to do so. Lamar’s album “DAMN.” received the prize almost exactly one year after the album’s widespread commercial success and two Grammy nominations. The unprecedented nature of the album’s critical success calls into question the limited critical success of hip-hop and rap by some of music’s most reputable institutions. Of the two genres which the Pulitzer academy has historically favored, classical and jazz, the latter is heavily cited as one of hip-hop’s most heavy-handed influencers. Lamar’s previous album, “To Pimp a Butterfly,” was noted by critics at the time for its pairing of jazz samplings with his trademark unapologetically confrontational lyricism. In spite of the album being released to similar widespread critical acclaim, “DAMN.” is Lamar’s only work nominated for a Pulitzer and the only rap album to ever receive a nomination. There are many factors that could account for this discrepancy. Some critics have noticed that Pulitzer Prizes are often awarded to artists of only marginal commercial success –– perhaps since the
award is accompanied by a $15,000 cash prize. With rap currently being one of the most lucrative genres in music, this could make a committee hesitant in its nomination process. Another factor in considering an apparent lapse in a nuanced consideration process is factoring in the members of the board who determine the prize winners. In contrast to the more homogenous lineup of years past, this year marked a break from traditional participants in the process. Members of this year’s committee included David Hadju, a contributing critic for Columbia professor of English and African American Studies. These additions to an institution whose makeup was comprised on a monolithic per1917) undoubtedly affected the perception of the committee and its ideals regarding what it The role of hip-hop in American society has historically been one of controversy. Major players in the early popularization of the genre include icons like N.W.A. and Tupac Shakur. Artists used dynamic approaches to traditional forms of music and innovative lyricism to convey the realworld problems of the demographic they belonged to. Arising in periods of distinct racial tensions, the music of these artists helped to
construct songs rooted in controversial social movements. Over 20 years after the dissolution of N.W.A. and the untimely death of Shakur, rap has become a nuanced and incredibly lucrative genre in the music business and its mark on American society is still The Pulitzer Prize for music is reserved “for distinguished musical composition by an American that has had
United States during the year.” The revolutionary nature of the genre seemingly aligns with the Pulitzer’s premusic noteworthy, but perhaps the genre’s historical placement on the margins of what’s considered societal propriety didn’t. What with the artistic and historical nature of rap, but perhaps a change in perspective was all that was necessary.
Fictional media effectively addresses global issues
By Michael Battista Immigration is a complicated but important topic to discuss. There is no one right answer that would make everyone happy, but there are plenty of wrong ways to handle it. In the same vein, the way immigration is handled in media needs to accurately highlight the experiences of people who go through the process. The best way to do this is
or video games. There have been many great examples of this, but handle the topic in different ways. On April 29, 2008, the video game Grand Theft Auto IV became an instant success. In a series known for violent car chases and gun battles, the fourth installment also included another factor –– themes about immigration. In the game, the main character,
Niko Bellic, is an Eastern European immigrant from an unnamed nation who comes to the U.S. after taking part in a war and various illegal ing and robbery. When he arrives in an American city modeled after New York City, he is greeted by his cousin Roman. The two battle racism and poverty while trying to obtain the American dream. Dennis Vodarsky, a junior mechanical engineering major at the College, remembers playing the game 10 years ago at a friends house around the time it was released. The New York City native felt immediately attached to the setting, especially around the starting area of Broker –– a city based off of his hometown of Brooklyn. “My family are actually immigrants from Eastern Europe,” Vodarsky said. “All those people (Niko is) exposed to, all that cultural stuff, I was kind of exposed to the same thing. It kind of made the game feel a bit more personal. The immithis stuff happening to you … it was realistic almost.” It is true that GTA IV has a lot
the blight of immigrants. However, by using the example of someone forced into a life of crime, the game shows the power struggle that immigrants face in the U.S. It’s important to note while the game portrays people satirically in many cases, the depictions are still relatable. The game does not shy away from showing how those who come from foreign lands are persecuted because of their identity. Many of the characters in the game fall into categories: the optimists like Niko who believe they can achieve success through their work, the pessimists who believe the world has nothing for people who use their power –– both legally and illegally –– to hold down others many immigrants in real life, mostly works for those in the latter category who are greedy or immoral. “Playing as someone who comes to the country trying to make a better life for themselves –– getting kicked around (and) tossed light on the issue,” Vodarsky said. While GTA IV deals with
gritty themes and is intended for a mature audience, there are other works that are far more age friendly. Don Bluth’s 1986 animated masterpiece, “An American Tail,” discusses immigration using relatable characters, musical numbers and talking animals. Mousekewitz, a Russian-Jewish mouse who immigrated to New York City in the late 19th century with his family to escape religious persecution in their homeland. The mice represent the foreign immigrants while the cats are portrayed as anti-semitic and generally antagonistic in their persecution of those looking for freedom. Entertainment media have always had the ability to break down and present topics in ways that mass audiences can understand. They have to balance being able to convey a message while also not offending the audience — that is why it is so important to appreciate the themes and messages that come from forms of media that do it right. From the outside, these themes may seem exaggerated, but, especially in a time like today, the message can really make an impact.
Policies signal@tcnj.edu should not exceed 500 words. signal@tcnj.edu.
May 2, 2018 The Signal page 17
Students share opinions around campus “Does Kendrick Lamar deserve his Pulitzer Prize?”
Clare McGreevy / Opinions Editor
Robert Mitten, a freshman mathematics and secondary education dual major. “I think he’s more than a rapper; he does enough for the community.”
Clare McGreevy / Opinions Editor
Jessica Bell, a senior communication studies major. “It’s a different form of literature. It’s kind of cool that they’re expanding the category in a way.”
“Does media have an impact on young people’s perspectives?”
Clare McGreevy / Opinions Editor
Greg Dolan, a senior technology education major. “Absolutely. It’s insane how technology is shaping the minds of new generations.”
Clare McGreevy / Opinions Editor
Alex Batterman, a senior psychology major. “Social media especially is exposing kids to a lot of different things.”
The Signal’s cartoons of the week ...
page 18 The Signal May 2, 2018
Features
Glow / Drag queens star in charity show
Meagan McDowell / Photo Editor
Left: Donations from the audience benefit Hynacith AIDS Foundation. Right: Rhedd Rhumm proudly represents LGBTQ+ culture. continued from page 1
Students strutted to RuPaul’s “Sissy That Walk” and some of the professional drag queens presented their own outfit “Ruveals.” The night was filled with “death drop” dance moves, sass and splits. Drag queens came from all over New Jersey to celebrate LGBTQ+ culture and raise money for Hyacinth AIDS Foundation of Trenton. Throughout the show, the Student Center became increasingly packed with student performers and “the naked boys.” A group of shirtless students, nicknamed “the naked boys” by performer Davida Sky, held baskets to collect money for the foundation. Each dollar donated counted as a vote toward the student drag queens and kings who were competing. The student with the most votes at the end of the night won an Amazon gift card and a bejeweled crown.
“There are so many different steps and layers that go into (planning an event like this),” said Andrew Fenwick, president of PRISM and a senior political science major. “You start off with an image and you just build up on it. We tried to have local drag queens from Trenton and we wanted to make sure we gave to a nonprofit that does work within Trenton.” Hyacinth serves about 15,000 New Jersey residents per year, according to Senior Director of Development Dan Barnett. Hyacinth’s mission is “to help people live with HIV, slow the spread of the epidemic, and serve as a critical voice in the public debate surrounding AIDS in New Jersey,” according to its website. “Hyacinth makes sure that every individual has the opportunity to get help, health care regarding HIV and testing that’s necessary,” Barnett said. “It’s a remarkable organization to be a part of.”
Asbury Park-based professional drag queen Jennifer Cuntson explained that while the donations of audience members may seem small individually, the collective proceeds from the drag show amount to a sizable donation for Hyacinth. “A dollar really does matter,” Cuntson said as she caught her breath after her set. “Look at the lottery. A dollar makes a dream.” Cuntson said she had only performed a handful of times before, and PRISM’s drag show was her largest crowd yet. “It was like going over the ocean, taking a transatlantic flight — that far out of my comfort zone. But I really enjoyed it. I loved it,” Cuntson said. After the performances ended, Sky announced that more than $550 had been raised for Hyacinth. When Barnett took the microphone and spoke to the students, he said this was one of
the largest crowds at a college drag show he had ever seen. Sky ended the show by talking about the Bible Believers’ protest in Alumni Grove, stating that on a campus where hundreds of people are willing to attend a drag show, there is no place for hate. “And if anyone has a problem with that, there’s an angry, Mexican, transsexual drag queen you can refer them to,” she said. Her final lip sync was an emotional performance of “I Know Where I’ve Been” from the musical Hairspray. Throughout the night, a message of hope and acceptance was presented by a crowd of drag queens, scantily clad performers and everyone in between. “It was the highlight of my semester,” Jeffrey Sabo, a junior computer engineering major. “It’s always such a feel-good, positive event. It’s a very accepting and loving environment.”
College celebrates magic of ‘Harry Potter’ Organizations unite through love of literary classic By Kaitlyn Njoroge Staff Writer
Kristen Capano, a senior English and self-design publishing and editing double major, was the first to walk up to the wooden podium. “‘Mr. and Mrs. Dursley, of number four, Privet Drive, were proud to say that they were perfectly normal, thank you very much,’” she recited from the first page of a series of novels that have changed the world. On April 25, Sigma Tau Delta, the College’s English Honors Society, and The Order of the Nose-Biting Teacups, the College’s Harry Potter Club, hosted a marathon reading in Bliss Hall Lounge of “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone,” J.K. Rowling’s first novel in the Harry Potter series. “A lot of people have read Harry Potter, so (this event) is a great way for people to come together through literature and bond,” Capano, who is also a member of
Sigma Tau Delta, said. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and then 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., anyone at the College was welcome to read a section of the novel aloud while enjoying snacks and homemade butterbeer. Felicia Steele, one of the advisers of Sigma Tau Delta and an assistant professor in the College’s English department, has been attending marathon reading events hosted by the honor society since 2002. Past readings have included Seamus Heaney’s translation of Beowulf and J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of The Rings, according to Steele. “We’ve done it lots of different ways,” Steele said. “In the past, we’ve had marathon readings for major anniversaries. So that was the reason why in 2016 we did Shakespeare’s sonnets, because that was the (400th) anniversary of Shakespeare’s birth and death.” Attendees were also given a “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” trivia paper to fill out,
which tested their knowledge on the novel. An hour into the event, Diane Steinberg, one of the advisers for Sigma Tau Delta and an assistant professor in the College’s English department, came bursting into the lounge dressed from head to toe as a witch. Students laughed as they watched Steinberg read ahead with her own copy of the book, attempting to complete the trivia challenge first. Some attendees, including Lisa Director, a sophomore English and secondary education dual major and Sigma Tau Delta member, brought her own copy of the book to read along with the speaker at the podium. “I’ve always been a huge fan of Harry Potter ever since I was a child — ever since I could remember. The idea of just reading it for a day straight for a few hours in a row until it’s done was really cool to me,” she said. Director sports a tattoo of
the Deathly Hallows symbol above the Hogwarts crest that reads, “Never tickle a sleeping dragon” in Latin. At this year’s Sigma Tau Delta National Convention, students at the College suggested that other chapters of the organization continue the tradition.
“I already know five or six chapters across the east coast who are also going to do a marathon reading,” Capano said. “It’s not only bringing the College together, but also the eastern region of Sigma Tau Delta and Sigma Tau Delta members across the country.”
Meagan McDowell / Photo Editor
Students and faculty read excerpts from the series.
May 2, 2018 The Signal page 19
: April’90
Campus Style
Students ‘Fight the Final’ in protest
Photo courtesy of the TCNJ Digital Archive
Students believe that one exam should not determine their grade.
This week, Opinions Editor Emmy Liederman hit the archives and found an old Signal that relates to current College topics and top stories. The College’s reaction to the Bible Believers’ demonstration is a reminder of students’ willingness to stand up for their beliefs, regardless of what the issue may be. In 1990, students protested against a policy that mandated all courses have a cumulative final exam that made up between 30 and 60 percent of the final grade. Students argued that one exam should not have such a heavy impact on their final average and that the change in policy, which according to one professor was “plotted in some administrative cabal around a boardroom in Green Hall,” was not transparent enough. Several hundred Trenton State College students loudly protested the college’s mandatory cumulative final exam proposal in a “Fight the Final” rally last Wednesday in front of Green Hall. The hour-long protest began with a singing of the national anthem and featured chants, banners, a short sit-in in front of the academic affairs office, as well as several speeches which roused the crowd. Dr. Hal Hogstrom, professor of communication and theater, was an especially notable in a speech where he condemned the college administration as “the most arbitrary, autocratic and authoritarian all the ones I have seen.” Hogstrom lambasted the plan as “ill conceived.” Under the proposal all classes next semester will have a mandatory cumulative final exam which will count for no less than 30% and no more than 60% of the final grade. Hogstrom listed three reasons why he felt the proposal was a bad one, attacking the way “it
was foisted upon us,” saying it would seriously damage the duality of learning, and saying it was a dear violation of academic freedom. Expanding on these three complaints, he said, “Policy should be shaped in Macy’s window, not plotted in some administrative cabal around a boardroom in Green Hall.” He went on to question how, when and where the decision was made saying “suddenly there it was, like some exotic fungus.” SGA President Mike McCormick also spoke, comparing the administration to “Big Brother” and he pointed out that Harvard University had determined that cumulative exams were not useful. “If Harvard is saying that,” he said, “who are we to say no?” Several students held posters at the rally, such as, “I’m going to transfer,” “Two study days are bullshit” and “Leave my ‘test’icles alone.” One bed sheet banner portrayed a grade “A” egg on the left side which said “this is your brain.” On the right side was a broken egg labeled grade “D”, and was captioned, “this is your brain during cumulative finals.” After the speeches, the students circled the building a few times, chanting, “Fight the Final!” and other slogans. They made a point to stop at the back of Green Hall, where the office of Dr. Eric Brucker, vice president for academic affairs, is located. Several window curtains in several offices were then closed by people inside. Dr. Brucker was believed to be meeting with members of the faculty senate at the time of the rally. The faculty senate has also come out against mandatory cumulative final exams. Dr. Brucker was unavailable for comment.
Lions Plate
Left: Finals week is the perfect time to sport athleisure. Right: Oversized sweaters are a cozy option for a cool spring day. By Lexy Yulich Columnist
As the semester winds down, and finals season begins, here are a few fashion tips to make dressing for final exams easier. Now, you’re probably thinking, “Why do I care what I look like during finals?” I completely agree with you, but there are studies that show that dressing nicer for tests, presentations and other important academic events helps your performance. I’m not suggesting that you wear a business suit to your 8 a.m. calculus final, but wearing leggings instead of pajamas or sweatpants might boost your score! All of the following outfit suggestions focus on comfort and require minimal effort. Leggings, an oversized sweater and slip on sneakers. Although it is April, the buildings are still chilly. Wearing
an oversized sweater instead of a big sweatshirt will make you look more put together yet still cozy and comfortable. Athleisure. I’m a big fan of athleisure, which is a mix between athletic wear and casual wear. Wearing a pair of sports leggings with an athletic sweatshirt or tank top makes for a great outfit. Comfy jeans and a loose top. If you have a little time before your exam, wearing your favorite pair of comfy jeans and a loose flowy top gives the impression that you spent more time getting ready than you actually did. If you want to look even more sophisticated, add a necklace or a cardigan to add depth to the outfit. Flannel and leggings. Leggings or jeans pair well with a cute flannel. This is my go-to finals outfit, especially when I pair it with a baseball hat and grey suede slip on sneakers. Best of luck to everyone on their finals!
homestyle banana bread
Left: Bland bananas can be turned into a tasty treat. Right: Toasty banana bread is a warm, delectable breakfast choice. By Julia Dzurillay Columnist After eating plain bananas and dinosaur oatmeal for breakfast three days in a row, I figured it was time for a change. My bananas were browning and my ideas were waning, but I didn’t want them to go to waste. I found this recipe for banana bread on simplyrecipes. com, and thought it was a great way
to shake up my morning breakfast routine! If you prefer a sweeter bread, add in a 1/2 cup of chocolate chips. If you want to make it a little more savory, throw in a 1/2 cup of walnuts. I would definitely make this recipe again, and I hope you go bananas over this bread too. Ingredients: 2 or 3 ripe bananas 1/3 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon salt 3/4 cup sugar 1 egg 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 1/2 cups of flour 1 tablespoon cinnamon Makes: One 4x8 loaf (about 8 slices) Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. 2. Peel bananas and place them in a large bowl. Using the back of a fork, mash them until they’re a pudding-like consistency. 3. Add melted butter, baking soda and salt. Stir with fork until thoroughly combined. 4. Add sugar, egg and vanilla extract to the bowl. Stir well. 5. Stir flour into the batter, adding in 1/2 cup at a time. Mix until
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well combined. 6. Add in cinnamon and stir slightly to create a swirl pattern in batter. 7. Pour batter into a 4x8 loaf pan. 8. Bake at 350 degrees for about 50 minutes. Stick a toothpick into the bread. If there is wet batter on the toothpick, place it back into the oven for about 10 minutes. 9. Once bread is cooked, let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. 10. Enjoy!
page 20 The Signal May 2, 2018
May 2, 2018 The Signal page 21
Sports Baseball
Pitchers toss out opponents on road
Left: The Lions enter the NJAC as the No. 1 seed. Right: Rowan improves to 3-1 after the team’s win against Arcadia.
By William Guttman Staff Writer
The Lions finished up their regular season this week with strong performances in four out of five games. The team finished with a record of 27-7 overall and 14-4 in the New Jersey Athletic Conference, good for the top seed in the tournament. The College opened the week hosting Arcadia University on April 24. A ninerun first inning by the Lions was more than enough to stave off 23-11 Arcadia by a score of 11-6. Junior starting pitcher Andrew Rowan
improved to 3-1 with the win, while senior pitcher Matt Curry earned his seventh save of the season. On Thursday, April 26, the Lions traveled to Wayne, New Jersey to take on William Paterson University. Junior starting pitcher Michael Fischer was stellar in the Lions’ 7-1 road victory, striking out seven batters without allowing a single walk in a complete-game win. The Lions then headed to Kean University in Union, New Jersey for a doubleheader on Saturday, April 28. In the first game, the Lions held a lead from the top of the first all the way until the
bottom of the ninth, when Kean scored three runs to steal the game from the Lions, 6-5. The second game was an intensely close battle. Senior pitcher Brandon Zachary pitched for the Lions for nine innings — allowing just two runs, one unearned, but the teams were knotted at two after the standard 54 outs. Freshman pitcher Nickolas Kleftogiannis shut down Kean for his two relief innings. Junior infielder Ryan Fischer then scored on an error in the 12th inning to put the Lions up 3-2. Curry closed the game to earn his second save of the week and eighth of the season.
Miguel Gonzalez / Sports Editor
In their final game of the regular season, the Lions hosted William Paterson after the game was postponed from Friday, April 27 to Sunday, April 29 due to inclement weather. After honoring the team’s eight seniors for their contributions throughout their careers at the College, the Lions pounced with 17 hits and 12 runs. Rowan earned the win for the College, while Ryan Fischer led the way for the offense with three hits and two RBIs. The Lions moved into postseason play as the No. 1 seed in the NJAC on Tuesday, May 1 at George Ackerman Park against William Paterson.
Tennis
Men end season with pair of wins, women defeat SUNY Oneonta By Rohan Ahluwalia Staff Writer
The women’s and men’s tennis teams have concluded their seasons this week, both ending on bright notes. During the last week of the season, the men won both games against Ramapo College and State University of New York at Oneonta, while the women won only game during the week, against Oneonta. The men took on Ramapo College on April 24 at the College’s outdoor tennis courts. They started in fantastic fashion, winning all three doubles match-ups by a score of 8-3. Junior Matt Puig paired up with sophomore Thomas Wright as they defeated Ramapo’s Willen Feygin and Adam Patrovics. Juniors Omar Bokhari and Tim Gavornik then teamed up to defeat Mike Abelev and Kevin Ilinets. Freshmen Sean Reilly and Andrew Mok won against Chris Yip and Brendan Hines. In singles competition, Puig came out on top against Ramapo’s Adam Patrovics in straight sets 6-2 and 6-1. Gavornik also defeated Kevin Ilinets in straight sets ,6-1 and 6-1, before Wright got the better of Brendan Hines, 6-0 and 6-1. Junior Achyuth Balijepalle confirmed the victory for the Lions with a straight set victory over Chris Yip, 6-1 and 6-2. The victory over Ramapo College snapped a four-game losing-streak for the men as they headed into their final match of
the season against Oneonta. With both the men and women playing on Saturday, April 28, the Lions celebrated Senior Day by congratulating five seniors and sending them off with victories. In the men’s game, Lions took two of the three doubles matches. Puig and Wright earned their second victory as a duo for the week by defeating Oneonta junior Nicholas Fox and sophomore Marco Ammirati 8-3. Bokhari and Gavornik then earned a 8-4 victory over seniors Zach Lasky and Timothy Distler to give the Lions the lead going into singles. In singles, the Lions managed to earn five victories from the six matches played, all in straight sets. Junior Mitchel Sanders began proceedings, defeating Ammirati 6-2 and 6-2. Puig then earned a victory over Lasky before his doubles partner Wright confirmed a victory over senior Cole Laffitte. Gavornik and Balijepalle then finished the game with defeats by Fox and freshman Riley Smith respectively. The Lions concluded their season by defeating the Oneonta women 9-0. In doubles, juniors Alyssa Baldi and Sneha Rangu continued their impressive partnership with a dominating 8-0 victory over Oneonta’s freshman Mya Lipscomb and sophomore Danielle Swierczyna. Senior Maddy Stoner partnered with junior Grace Minassian to defeat freshman Julieta Eulau and senior Samantha Felice 8-3. Finally, senior Danna Tsay teamed up with sophomore Audrey Chen to earn a
Photo courtesy of the Sports Information Desk
The men’s and women’s teams celebrate Senior Day.
8-0 victory over freshmen Gianna Papini and Dorothy Zeisler. In the singles competition, the women won all of their matches in straight sets. Rangu defeated Eulau while her doubles partner Baldi won over Swierczyna. Stoner then completed her college tennis career with a victory over Papini, 6-0 and 6-2. Senior Brittany Reedman also concluded her tennis career with the Lions with a victory over Oneonta junior Michelle Halpern (6-1, 6-2).
Minassian and Chen then concluded the perfect day for the Lions with victories over Mya Lipscomb and Samantha Felice respectively. “This was a great season for us on many levels,” said head men’s and women’s tennis coach Scott Dicheck. “I am really proud of our seniors as well, they have worked really hard during their time with us.” The men concluded the season with an 8-6 record while the women finished with a 13-1 record, including nine 9-0 victories.
page 22 The Signal May 2, 2018
!"#$%&$%'()$!"#$%&'()*$*"+,$%May 2, 2018 The Signal page 23 Track and Field
Lions tear up competition at home meet Team prepares for conference championship
Photo courtesy of the Sports Information Desk
Prothero finishes less than a second away from his 1,500-meter personal best.
By Gregory Leddy Staff Writer
The College hosted the 2018 Lions Invitational track and field meet from Friday, April 27 to Saturday, April 28. Some Lions also attended the Penn Relays Distance Carnival in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania from Thursday, April 26 to Saturday, April 28. The annual Lions Invitational serves as both a competitive track meet and a celebration of team culture. Former Lions athletes returned to run the Alumni Mile and to
witness the senior appreciation ceremony, which highlighted the team’s graduating seniors’ impact on the team. The home meet was especially key for the teams in the New Jersey Athletic Conference, as the College will serve as the host of this year’s NJAC Outdoor Track and Field Championships. Athletes from the likes of Rowan University and Ramapo College had the opportunity to get a feel for the environment in which they will be competing in this coming weekend. While the College is saving its best
performances for the championship meet, the Lions Invitational served as an ideal tuneup for athletes seeking to set themselves up for stronger seeds. The men’s highlights included the 1,500meter race, in which senior Dale Johnson, freshman Robert Abrams and junior Luke Prothero took spots two through four and all finished within three seconds of each other. Both Johnson and Abrams set personal records, running 3:55.50 and 3:56.83, respectively. Prothero, who ran 3:58.39, was less than a second away from his own personal best of 3:57.48. The 5,000-meter race was also tightly packed, as freshman Joseph Erskine, junior Quinn Wasko and freshman Noah Preihs took the third, fourth and fifth places, respectively. In the 400-meter hurdles, freshman Tana Gawe put on a great performance, running a personal best of 55.92 and placing third overall. The triple jump victory was taken by junior Andrew McNutt, who jumped 14.25 meters to beat Rowan senior Harrison Escoffery by 0.22 meters. The women’s highlights include freshman Jada Grisson’s third place finish in the 100-meter event, running 12.80, as well as her fourth place finish in the 200-meter in 26 seconds. Senior Danielle Celestin was second in the 200-meter, running 25.88. Sophomore Katie LaCapria won the 800meters in a region-leading time of 2:14.57
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for third overall. LaCapria currently leads the conference in the 800-meter event by a comfortable margin of nearly three seconds. In the 100-meter hurdles, sophomore Kaila Carter battled to the wire with Rider University freshman Joshonda Johnson, eventually placing second with a time of 15.01. Senior Jenna Ellenbacher earned an exciting win in the 400-meter hurdles, running 1:03.82. Ellenbacher came back to anchor the winning 4x400-meter ‘A’ team, along with Emily Hirsch, Dana DeLuca and LaCapria, which clocked in at 4:03.41. The 4x100-meter ‘A’ team of Grisson, DeLuca, Carter and Celestin got the victory with a time of 48.59. In the field events, freshman Tamika Voltaire placed third in the high jump with a mark of 1.55 meters, and junior Stephanie Wolfer threw 36.33 meters in the javelin for third place overall. At the Penn Relays, the women turned in some of the most notable performances of the weekend. In the 3,000-meter steeplechase, junior Erin Holzbaur set a new region-leading time of 10:50.07 for ninth in her heat. While there are a number of great performances to speak of this weekend, the main focus for the Lions this week is gearing up for the conference championship. The meet will take place at the College’s track and field complex from Saturday, May 5 to Sunday, May 6.
Signal
Sports
Lions end regular season strong By Malcolm Luck Sports Editor Losing just doesn’t sit well with the Lions. After falling to Kean University 4-3 on April 21, the College rattled off four consecutive wins against conference opponents to end the regular season with authority. The Lions claimed the first pair of victories in a dominating doubleheader display against New Jersey City University on April 24 at Dr. June Walker Field. Freshman starting pitcher Alanna Namit began the game in her usual commanding fashion, striking out seven of the first nine batters she faced. After being held scoreless for the first two innings, the Lions struck first in the bottom of the third. With two outs and no runners on base, sophomore infielder Megan Mayernik struck a single to left field that ignited a two-out rally. Senior outfielder Madison Levine laced an RBI double to left center one batter later. Junior outfielder Gaby Bennett followed with a run-scoring error and another RBI single to cap off a three-run inning. Namit responded by striking out the side in the top of the fourth inning. Extra-base hits put the game out of reach in the bottom half of the inning. Sophomore infielder/outfielder Annalise Suitovsky doubled to left field to score the fourth run for the Lions while a pair of triples from Mayernik and freshman infielder Lauren Conroy ended up being the dagger that extended the
lead to 7-0. The College scored their eighth run in the bottom of the fifth, enforcing the mercy rule and ending the game two innings early, 8-0. The Lions showed no mercy for NJCU in the back end of the doubleheader, resulting in another 8-0 victory. The College hung four runs on the scoreboard in the bottom of the fourth with a plethora of sharp base hits. Levine sent an RBI triple to right field, bringing home Suitovsky for the first run of the game. After an RBI single by Conroy, Bennett tripled to right center and eventually scored after sophomore outfielder Helena Coppola smacked an RBI double to right. Coppola added a run-scoring triple to right field in her next plate appearance and scored on an RBI infield single. For the second consecutive game, the College scored its eighth run in the fifth inning to end the game early. At home against Montclair State University, the Lions struck early and often, posting five runs in the first three innings of the game. Conroy got the College started with an RBI single up the middle in the first. Suitovsky added a two-run double an inning later, followed by a two-run single by junior catcher Jess McGuire in the third. The offense was more than enough for Namit who pitched all six innings for the Lions while collecting seven strikeouts, only allowing three hits. With this performance, Namit finishes the regular season
Photo courtesy of the Sports Information Desk
Namit collects seven strikeouts against Montclair State.
with no losses, posting a 14-0 record. The Lions added three more in the bottom of the sixth to capture their third consecutive 8-0 victory. The last game of the regular season was no different from the others. Explosive offense and stingy pitching proved to carry the Lions to another victory, this time resulting in a 6-1 victory. Levine and Conroy collected RBIs in the first inning. The College didn’t score again until the
bottom of the fourth following McGuire’s sacrifice fly and Mayernik’s RBI single. The Lions added insurance runs in the fifth and sixth innings. Despite allowing a run in the top of the seventh, senior pitcher Sam Platt held on for her ninth win of the season. Next up for the Lions are the New Jersey Athletic Conference playoffs, where the top-seeded Lions look to bring home a conference title.
Women’s lacrosse finishes top seed in conference
Chrone makes history by limiting Salisbury to one goal. By Alexandra Parado Staff Writer
After two successive victories against Stockton and Kean Universities, the nationally top-ranked Lions captured their eighth consecutive perfect conference season, finishing top seed in the New Jersey Athletic Conference.
Lions Lineup May 2, 2018
I n s i d e
Photo courtesy of the Sports Information Desk
On April 24, the Lions journeyed to Galloway, New Jersey and left with an 18-1 win over Stockton. The match started with a 3-0 lead with goals from sophomore midfielder Allie Gorman, freshman midfielder Erin Jaffe and sophomore midfielder Alexandria Fitzpatrick. After a goal by the opponent, the Lions responded by firing six straight goals to conclude the first half, 9-1.
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Baseball page 21
In the second half, the Lions made nine unanswered goals, closing the game 18-1. The team had a few days of rest before getting back on the road to travel to Union, New Jersey on Saturday, April 28 for its final game of the regular season against Kean. The game began with a goal from Kean, but the Lions responded with eight goals, demonstrating the team’s resilience on the field. Junior midfielder Kathleen Jaeger scored half of the goals in the first half, and later finished with five goals in total. In the second half of the game, the Lions added 10 more points on the scoreboard. This triumph resulted in the advancement of their record to 15-2 overall and 6-0 in the NJAC. Junior goalkeeper Miranda Chrone was named the Intercollegiate Women’s Lacrosse Coaches Association National Defensive Player of the Week for games played between April 16-22. That week, Chrone aided the College to a triad of wins. In the first win of the week against Rowan University, Chrone tied a career-high of nine saves. Not only did she protect the net, but she was active outside of the cage with six ground balls and three turnovers. Chrone also prevailed to a 10-1 victory over Salisbury University, which was top ranked in the NJAC at the time. In the net, Chrone held Salisbury to a single goal for the entire game, which marked the first time in history this occurred. In the final victory, Chrone had five saves against Rowan University. Chrone ended the season as second all-time in program history with 53 career wins, and is the NCAA alltime leader in career goals. The College and Kean face each other again on Wednesday, May 2 in the opening round of the NJAC tournament in Lions Stadium.
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