Breaking news, blogs and more at TCNJSignal.net. Vol. XLVII, No. 1
August 30, 2017
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MONEY names College 24th best value in US
Jason Proleika / Photo Editor
MONEY ranks 710 schools based on factors like graduation rate and alumni success. By Chloe Freed Staff Writer The College has once again impressed MONEY Magazine, where it ranked No. 24 in the nation on MONEY’s list
of “Best Colleges for Your Money.” The College placed 14th amongst all public colleges and universities and 24th overall. The College ranked first among N.J. public colleges and universities and second overall, just behind Princeton University. The College was ranked along with 710 other schools.
This ranking is determined through various factors such as graduation rate, affordability, quality of education and the financial success of College alumni, according to MONEY. The College’s graduation rate currently hovers at 85 percent, a 9 percent difference from schools with similar student bodies, according to MONEY. The College has “top-notch” outcomes for a public college, MONEY reported. The magazine noted that the factors they examined have been seen as the most important elements needed for determining the best college for your money. The College also was acknowledged for its alumni earning an average of $52,100 in their early career, significantly higher salary than similar schools, according to MONEY. The College’s high rankings have the power to attract prospective students. “TCNJ’s high rankings and good reputation greatly influenced my decision to attend because it made me feel confident that I’d be receiving the best education possible,” said Marie Hines, a freshman nursing major. The College’s excellence has also been noticed by the U.S. News & World Report. Under their Best Regional Universities North Rankings, the College tied with Bentley University in Waltham, Massachusetts and ranked third out of 195 other public colleges and universities in the region, according to a U.S. News & World Report. “The recognition is welcome, especially since this ranking looks at three things that matter so much to students and their families: quality, affordability and outcomes,” said Dave Muha, the College’s spokesperson. “The College has been focused for some time on delivering a top notch education, and it’s gratifying to see that others are taking notice.”
Faculty finally get new contract
Campus construction progresses
By Michelle Lampariello News Editor
By Kristen Frohlich Staff Writer
After more than two years of negotiations with the Office of Employee Relations, a new contract was ratified for College faculty and staff on Aug. 8, making 12-month employees eligible for step increases in their salary, according to an announcement from College President R. Barbara Gitenstein. The ratification followed an approval from the American Federation of Teachers Council with the state of New Jersey, and the College plans to process necessary salary increases promptly. Employees eligible for a step increase likely noticed this change on their Aug. 25 paychecks. Gitenstein stated that “an additional 1.75 percent cost of living increase will be calculated,” and will be retroactively paid from the first full pay period of July 2017. This cost of living adjustment will also be given to 12-month employees who are not eligible for step increases, according to Gitenstein. “I’m glad we have a contract, but I’m upset about the low salary increases,” said John Krimmel, the criminology department chair and president of the College’s chapter of the AFT. “It didn’t bring us to where we should be. We’re happy to have a contract, but upset about the low rates.” While the new contract stipulates that step increases and cost of living adjustments for 10-month employees will be effective for the first full pay period in September, the College plans to reflect the adjustments in 10-month employees’ August 25 paychecks, Gitenstein wrote. Distress over working without contracts resulted in a faculty protest outside of Green Hall on April 12. While the ratification of a new contract addresses much of the unrest, there are still some staff members whose unions are still negotiating with the Office of Employee Relations, which Gitenstein addressed in her email. “To members of the staff whose unions are still negotiating with the Office of Employee Relations, know that once your unions conclude negotiations with the state, the College stands ready to implement the new terms,” Gitenstein wrote.
Say goodbye to barriers, cranes and daily detours — construction of the Brower Student Center, STEM Building, STEM Forum and chemistry addition are just about finished and ready for the fall semester. “The Brower Student Center has achieved substantial completion this summer and the building will be open when students return to campus later this month,” stated Luke Sacks, head media relations officer for the College, on Aug. 17. Not only has the Brower Student Center been updated structurally, but many new additional features were added, according to an email sent to the campus community. The updated building has, “a new event room that is over 7,000 additional square feet with an additional 3,300 square feet of pre-function space, two new meeting rooms on the first floor, a Media Corner in the café, and a Global Corner broadcasting news and programming from around the world,” wrote Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs Sean Stallings in the campuswide email. The new Brower Student Center will also house the Office of
INDEX:
Nation & World / page 3
Follow us on... The Signal @tcnjsignal
Editorial / page 5
Summer Flicks A look at this season’s best films See A&E page 10
Opinions / page 6
Jason Proleika / Photo Editor
The College welcomes a new-look student center. the Dean of Students, as well as new student workspaces, meeting rooms, an upgraded event room and a leadership training room, according to Stallings. All rooms received upgrades, as all major event rooms located in the Student Center are now equipped with built-in projection screens, surround sound and WiFi, making them ideal locations for on-campus events. The newly renovated STEM building was finished just in time for classes to begin. Sacks on Aug. 17 highlighted that, “The STEM Phase I Project, which includes the
STEM building, STEM forum and chemistry addition, is nearing completion. Occupancy permits are currently being obtained and the entire complex is expected to be ready for use during the fall semester.” Sacks also said that the architect for the Travers-Wolfe renovation was approved at the July 11 Board of Trustees meeting, and that designing the renovation is officially underway. Construction on the Towers will begin in May 2020, and is expected to be complete by Aug. 2022,
Features / page 8 Arts & Entertainment / page 10
see CAMPUS page 2
Sports / page 16
Study Abroad Students discuss their time in Harlaxton, England
Football The Lions have a new coach this season
See Features page 8
See Sports page 16
New businesses come to Campus Town page 2 The Signal August 30, 2017
Jason Proleika / Photo Editor
Incoming retailers make Campus Town 85 percent leased.
By Michelle Lampariello News Editor
Insomnia Cookies and Landmark Americana Tap & Grill, as well as PostNet,
a hair salon, a nail salon and an Indian restaurant are among the new restaurants and retailers. The addition of these new restaurants and retailers will make Campus Town 85 percent leased, according to NJ.com.
Landmark will occupy the space previously dedicated to Brickwall Tavern, which was originally due to break ground last May. After it was confirmed that Brickwall Tavern was not coming to Campus Town, Greg Lentine, director of university campus development for the developer PRC, reached out to Landmark. “We were upset that they left, but they were replaced with a business that we really wanted. Landmark knows how to operate on College campuses and understands the needs of college students,” Lentine said. Landmark’s Campus Town location is expected to open in Sept. 2018 in the vacant space next to Barnes and Noble. Landmark has other locations near Rowan, Drexel, St. Joseph’s and West Chester Universities. Campus Town will also be home to Insomnia Cookies’ second New Jersey location, offering late-night dessert deliveries to students and community members. “It’s an interesting business,” Lentine
said. “Even people outside the college are excited about it. When you get a business like that that’s dynamic and cutting edge, it helps the relationship with the surrounding community.” Community interest in Campus Town is strengthened by a weekly farmer’s market, which occurs every Sunday through October, with special events such as yoga classes provided by Empower Yoga, which opened in Campus Town in April. Within the next 30 days, PostNet and Bell Eyes are scheduled to open in Campus Town. PostNet will offer packaging, printing and graphic design services, while Bell Eyes is an optometric practice that will serve as an additional wellness resource to students and community members. Polished Nails and Hair Worx are also set to open in the near future, as well as Namaste Fine Indian Cuisine and Lion Dog, a hotdog restaurant. InFocus Urgent Care will celebrate its grand opening on Sept. 8.
Hazardous algae in Lake Sylva naturally dissipates
Officials advise against consuming water or fish from the lake By Heidi Cho Nation & World Editor The toxic algae bloom in Lake Sylva was cleared by the Department of Environmental Protection in early August, according to Ewing Mayor Bert Steinmann. Fish from the water should still not be consumed, and pets should not drink the untreated water, but the harmful algae is “all cleared up,” according to Steinmann. “All signs should be gone or in process of removal,” he added. Steinmann also said that the problem with the water began a few months ago. The algae bloom persisted for two to three weeks, according to Steinmann. The toxic algae bloom dissipated several weeks prior to Aug. 27, according to Luke Sacks, the College’s head
media relations officer. A staff member of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Bureau of Freshwater and Biological Monitoring discovered the suspicious algae bloom en route to one of their other sampling destinations, according to Section Chief of Bureau of Freshwater and Biological Monitoring Victor Poretti. Vice President of Administration Curt Heuring sent a campus-wide email on July 13, warning students and community members to avoid contact with the bodies of water. The algae bloom was later confirmed to be hazardous, particularly qualifying as a harmful algae bloom due to its excessive growth, according to a NJDEP HAB Fact Sheet, and its “potential to produce toxins,” according to
Section Chief Poretti. “(It was) producing toxins over the health and advisory thresholds for recreation,” Poretti said. The health and advisory thresholds are developed for human exposures only, according to the fact sheet. The bloom also spread to Shabakunk Creek and Colonial Lake in Lawrence Township, according to Poretti. The harmful algae bloom dissipated as it appeared — it was originally and naturally caused by “heat and slow moving water,” Steinmann said. “(The bloom) took its natural course and it subsided on its own,” according to Poretti. Anything from water with a suspected HAB should not be consumed, according to the NJDEP factsheet, and water from any untreated
Lake Sylva returns to a safer state.
water source should be not consumed, especially if there is suspicion of a HAB. It is advised that if you
Jason Proleika / Photo Editor
think there is a possible HAB in a pond, lake or stream to report it to the NJDEP from Monday to Friday from
8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at 609-292-0427, or contact the DEP Hotline anytime at 1-877-WARNDEP.
Campus / STEM building, student center open for fall semester Towers to undergo separate renovations starting summer 2020 continued from page 1
Jason Proleika / Photo Editor
The renovated student center includes structural upgrades and several new features.
according to Sacks. The $87 million renovation of the Towers will take about 18 months to design and be finished for spring 2019, as previously reported by The Signal. After the confirmation of the new design, the Towers will be renovated separately, according to Sacks. Although it is not certain which tower will be renovated first, renovation on the first tower is expected to begin in the summer 2020, while the second tower will begin in the following summer 2021. The renovation of Travers and Wolfe Halls will include air conditioning and improved Wi-Fi, as well as redesigned bathroom layouts to increase privacy. “(The College) will continue to guarantee housing to
freshmen and sophomores and plans to investigate off-campus housing options for the periods when students will be displaced from the Towers,” Sacks added. Sacks also confirmed that T-Dubs, the popular dining option, will remain in the renovated Towers. The Towers are an iconic part of campus, housing the majority of freshman since they were built in 1971. Sacks said the College looks forward to starting the Travers-Wolfe renovations. “We are excited about the prospect of a terrific renovation that will combine the best of the old and the new,” Sacks said. “Ultimately, we think the campus community will find the experience to have the best elements of the old, the opportunity for new traditions and a better experience overall.”
August 30, 2017 The Signal page 3
Nation & W rld
White supremacy comes to a head in Charlottesville By Heidi Cho Nation & World Editor
A U.N. panel called upon the United States to identify and address the root of racism that fueled the tragic series of protests in Charlottesville, Virginia on Aug. 23, according to The New York Times. Earlier this year, the Charlottesville City Council decided to remove a statue of Robert E. Lee from Emancipation Park, according to the Washington Post. The decision inspired hundreds of protesters to congregate at the University of Virginia, according to The New York Times. The Washington Post reported that protesters gathered with torches on Aug. 11 at the University of Virginia to protest the removal of the statue. This group faced off against 30 University of Virginia students linking hands around the statue in
a counter-protest. Shoving, pushing and torch throwing at both the students and statue ensued, according to the Washington Post. The protests only escalated on Aug. 12 when militias showed up with long rifles, and supporters of the Ku Klux Klan brought clubs and shields directly to the counter protesters, who yielded sticks and chemicals, according to the Washington Post. Authorities allege that James Alex Fields Jr. drove a car into a crowd protesting white supremacy, killing one of the counter-protesters. 19 others were injured in the attack, according to CBS. Heather Heyer, a 32-year-old paralegal, died from the attack. Over 1,000 individuals showed up to Hayes’s memorial service sporting purple, Heyer’s favorite color, according to the Washington Post. “If you’re not outraged, you’re not paying attention,” read Heyer’s
last public post on Facebook, according to Business Insider. Fields was charged with second degree murder, according to CBS. Two of the injured are also suing Fields as the suspected van driver, as well as asking for $3 million in compensation costs, according to CNN. By the end of the day on Aug. 12, 34 people were injured and two state troopers were killed in a helicopter crash while monitoring the protests without clear reasons, according to The New York Times. Governor Terry McAullife had declared a state of emergency late Saturday morning, according to the Washington Times. The New York Times reported police arrested only eight protesters. Civilians have attempted to identify white supremacists in photos of the protests through social media, and caused real life consequences by shaming them out of their jobs or homes. While some
White supremacists shield an entrance to the park. people were correctly identified, others suffered the consequences of false identification, according to The New York Times. President Donald Trump’s response to the events at Charlottesville was rebuked by several community leaders, leaders of other countries and now the U.N., according to The New York Times.
AP Photo
The future of the statue is yet to be decided, but for now the Robert E. Lee statue is shrouded, as decided by vote of the Charlottesville City Council, according to Fox. The “Unite the Right” event on Aug. 12 was the largest congregation of white nationalists in the past decade, according to Fox News.
Terrorist attacks strike fear into heart of Spain
AP Photo
A woman sits in front of a memorial shrine.
By Julia Marnin Staff Writer
Barcelona was ridden with fear on Aug. 17 when a terrorist drove his van into a crowd of unsuspecting people. CNN reported 13 people were killed and more than 100 others were left injured. Related incidents occurred as a house exploded in
Alcanar and a second attack ensued in Cambrils, which left five suspects killed by police, according to CNN. These deadly events stemmed from a group of terrorists that had a deadly agenda to bomb Barcelona’s churches and monuments, according to BBC. The man believed to be the van driver, Younes Abouyaaqoub, was at large for four days until he was shot and killed, according to BBC. Knives and fake explosives were found on him. There are four remaining suspects believed to be apart of the terror group, BBC reported. They faced a judicial trial in Madrid. Mohamed Houli Chemlal was the only one out of the four that has made confessions regarding the plots. Chemlal and another suspect have been charged with murder and the crime of belonging to a terrorist organization, BBC reported. The mastermind behind the terrorist cell was a discreet imam named Abdelbaki Essati, according to The New York Times. He secretly recruited young men for the Islamic State to carry out his plans. The final two suspects detained were not charged with crimes. Mohammed Aallaa was released on bail, while Salah ah-Karib was to undergo further investigations, according to BBC. Essati groomed the men with beliefs rooted in jihad, instilling in them that they would be recognized as martyrs in the Koran if they died in their attacks, according to ABC.
Essati is believed to have been killed in the house explosion in Alcanar. There, he and the terrorist cell manufactured explosives that were to be used in their plots. The New York Times reported that 100 butane gas cylinders were found in the Alcanar house. After losing their explosives to the blast, the terrorist cell’s loyalty to Essati prompted their attempts to spread terror in any way possible. The explosion in Alcanar occurred the day before the van attack. BBC reported that in Barcelona, Abouyaaqoub decided to get behind the wheel of a van and attack the popular tourist street, Las Ramblas. Weaving through the crowded streets, he rammed into scores of unsuspecting people. After the attack, Abouyaaqoub fled the vehicle and escaped the location, according to The New York Times. He proceeded to stab a man to death during his breakaway. BBC reported that police were unable to stop and shoot Abouyaaqoub because the area was too packed with civilians, according to a statement issued by Catalonia’s Interior Minister Joaquim Forn. Early the next day, another van attack occurred in Cambrils where seven people were hit and one woman died, according to BBC. The attackers were immediately shot by police. Five of the suspects in the terrorist cell were dead. They had many weapons with them along with fake explosive belts similar to what Abouyaaqoub was wearing. BBC reported the last time Spain experienced terrorist attacks as deadly as these was in 2004.
Threat of nuclear war between North Korea and US elevates By Jake Mulick Staff Writer
The United States and South Korea engaged in an annual joint military exercise on Aug. 2, according to CNN. The state-run North Korean newspaper Rodung Simnu warned against the exercise as it could further inflame the tense rhetoric between President Donald Trump and North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un. Tension between the two nations has risen since a U.N. joint resolve to enforce heavier sanctions on North Korea, according to The New York Times. The joint resolution affected the country’s ability to export coal, which accounts for 34 percent of the country’s exports as of 2015, according to an evaluation of the country’s currency conducted by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Following the U.N. sanctions, Kim announced the country would retaliate “thousands of times over” and would threaten possible military action, according to The New York Times.
Trump later responded that North Korea would see “fire and fury like the world has never seen” in a media appearance on Aug. 8 in Bedminster, New Jersey. On the same day, the Washington Post reported that Pyongyang had developed nuclear warheads small enough to be placed on long range ballistic missiles that
could reach the United States. Kim threatened to engulf Guam, the first target announced by the North Korean leader, in an “enveloping fire,” according to NPR. While Guam remains an unincorporated U.S. territory, which means citizens do not have a vote in any legislative body, it is
North Korea’s ballistic missile can attack with a nuclear warhead.
AP Photo
home to 7,000 US troops according to ABC. “Military solutions are now fully in place, locked and loaded, should North Korea act unwisely. Hopefully Kim Jong Un will find another path!” Trump tweeted on Aug. 11. This rhetoric was condemned by both the Chinese and South Korean governments, according to CNN. China, as a trading partner to both North Korea and the U.S., condemned the escalation of military talks between the two countries in an official statement. South Korea is also a potential target as there are 35,000 American troops stationed there, according to the Guardian as of Aug. 9. North Korea’s continued proliferation and advancement of nuclear weapons has created a fear of possible nuclear strikes on Guam, South Korea and America. Trump’s aggravation of the situation was criticized by the press and his contemporaries including Steven Bannon, according to The New York Times. At the moment, the back and forth between the two nations has met a standstill.
page 4 The Signal August 30, 2017
August 30, 2017 The Signal page 5
Editorial
Students should be optimistic for the upcoming semester
Darkness falls earlier every night, the air is no longer hot and humid, and those early morning alarms are set yet again. It’s officially over. I know, still tough to hear. I get that. If you need a minute, take one. Now that you’re doing okay, let’s address the unfortunate reality here: summer has ended. Not an easy pill to swallow for any of us — definitely not for me. I remember the beginning of summer like it was yesterday. May 12. The sun was shining brightly as I sped down Pennington Road, not looking back for a second. What followed was three glorious months without schoolwork, stress and exams, replaced with the abstract concept of “free time.” In that free time, I finally caught up on sleep, all of my television shows and with all of my friends who were on adventures of their own during the previous school year. The summer haze engulfed me until August rolled around. I could count the days on my fingers until move-in day, until one day, suddenly, I was moved back in. Funny how that works. Yes it’s overwhelming to change environments all over again, but stepping back onto campus feels just like home to me now, just as it did a few months ago. The only difference between here and home is I have my mom’s lasagna at home and here, well, I don’t. For those of us struggling to get back into routine, and for the newbies who are just moving onto campus, I have a few words of advice. Get excited. It’s tough to look forward to that 8 a.m. class, believe me I know. But the more motivation you find, the better your experience will be, the faster the semester will fly by and the further you will go. You should also learn from old mistakes. For a freshman, this is all new and you’re just testing the waters for the first time. For the upperclassman, keep in mind your successes and missteps from previous years and move forward. If you failed a paper because you finally finished it at 6:30 a.m. on the due date, maybe try to avoid procrastinating this semester. If you finished at 6:30 a.m. and passed, well, good on you, keep doing what you’re doing! This time take chances. All summer I pondered on the missed opportunities I let blow by on campus because my focus was dedicated to other less important things. Get out there and take a chance on something you either put off for a rainy day or were too preoccupied to do last year. Try out for the musical. Join club frisbee. Whatever you wish. Just take the chance. When the going gets tough at the College, it’s difficult to be thankful for any of the stress and aggravation you may be going through. But keep in mind that being a part of this campus community is such a blessing that will truly shape who you are. Each challenge changes you in ways you won’t believe, and each opportunity you take will lead to great rewards. Be grateful and remember to just be happy that you’re here. Happy Fall 2017, everyone! — Mia Ingui News Editor
Editorial Content Unsigned editorial opinions are those of the Editorial Board, which consists of the Editor-in-Chief, the Managing, News, Features, Arts & Entertainment, Opinions, Photo, Sports, Review and Social Media editors and the Business and Production managers, unless otherwise noted. Opinions expressed in signed editorials and letters to the editor are those of the author and not necessarily those of The Signal.
Summer comes to end for students at the College.
AP Photo
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“TCNJ’s high rankings and good reputation greatly influenced my decision to attend because it made me feel confident that I’d be receiving the best education possible.” — Marie Hines, freshman nursing major
“I think experiential learning is the most inspiring, transformative education there is. I love taking students beyond the classroom and right into the literature we are studying.” — Michele Lise Tarter a professor of English
“Students have a new mindset when it comes to drug addiction, and are quicker to sympathize than to judge. Classes like (the ones offered abroad in Portugal) help students take a look at addiction from a new perspective.”
— Sandy Gibson an associate professor of counselor education
page 6 The Signal August 30, 2017
Opinions
Trenton Hall tells a different tale than Loser By Elizabeth Zakaim
I never considered myself directly invested in the outcome of our student protesters’ efforts to change the name of Paul Loser Hall. I walked past the flyers, posted strategically around campus, rather nonchalantly during the months leading up to the sit-in. I admired from afar the zeal of my fellow students and their ultimate success at getting the name changed. It was only after the name change that I realized how hard it is to distance a name from its origins, and how even the building’s new name still strays far from the sensitive issues that once burdened the College’s student protesters. Trenton Hall. My first thought was that it was an apt name. It connected the school with its former namesake, and with the city that we have grown quite involved with through Bonner and other programming. My interest was further sparked when I was made aware of an additional fact about Trenton from another student and then decided to conduct additional research. The city was named after William Trent, a 17th century merchant from the Philadelphia area who was actively involved in the African and West Indian slave trade. My next thought was, “How ironic.” After discovering that Paul Loser reportedly spited the 1944 state supreme court
Trenton Hall sits at the entrance to campus. ruling against segregation in the Trenton public school system, students decided to protest in an effort to distance the building from the ideology of racism. The fact that the school named a building after Loser struck a chord with students concerned with equality. I will note that both acts of discrimination
Jason Proleika / Photo Editor
were common practices of each man’s time. Federal law would only finally recognize segregation as illegal in 1954 –– 10 years after New Jersey’s ruling. The slave trade wasn’t abolished until the Slave Trade Act of 1807, and its principles didn’t begin to take effect in the United States until 1808. These belatedly implemented laws, as
well as the building’s name change, only remind students of just how deep racism is embedded in American culture. Alumnus Tim Osborn (’17), one of the protest leaders, pointed out something critical to me: “The U.S. has many such structures and places named for and honoring people who willingly took part in morally abhorrent practices. This says a lot about the United States.” And while he agrees that it’s important to make the city’s namesake known, he believes that the name Trenton has been “re-appropriated by the very constituencies that William Trent wronged” in order to represent themselves, not Trent. The city itself is a representation of what Trent’s practices failed to do –– completely eradicate minorities as less than human, nothing but products to be sold on the market. In that sense, yes, naming the building “William Trent Hall” would perhaps be just as bad. But “Trenton Hall” represents more than just the man the city was named after. It represents the other side of the story; not the merchants, but the slaves themselves. Perhaps “Trenton Hall” only rings a rather rusty distant bell to the early days of racism in comparison with “Loser Hall’s” sharper knell. But to me, a name like “Admissions Hall” would have been a safer bet.
Summer internships provide valuable experience
Students seek opportunities outside of the classroom. By Kristen Frohlich For many college students, the arrival of summer brings one word to mind: relaxation. All of their anxiety brought on by exams, essays and late night studying is put on hold as their spring semester ends and a warm, sunny break begins. However, these three blissful months of summer do not always mean relaxation. Summer can be quite hectic, particularly for students who take on internships in their desired job field. Many students apply for internships with the hopes of learning more about their area of study and gaining valuable experience. Still, many students do not apply for internships due to the fear of being forced to do grunt work, like going on coffee runs or making paper copies for their managers. Fortunately, the two internships I had this summer were everything I had hoped
they would be. Relaxation was a word far from my mind these past three months when I worked for a local podiatrist, New Jersey Foot and Ankle Center, and for an international skin care company, Olivella, as a public relations intern. While many students spent their summer taking fun city trips, lying on the beach and enjoying family excursions, I spent my summer working my two internships simultaneously. Although the industry and work culture at these two companies were completely different, they both required me to do similar tasks: control their social media websites and write informative articles pertaining to their area of business. My two responsibilities at these jobs taught me many lessons about communication. My internships taught me how big the health and beauty industry is in our society, and how essential it is to have prevalent social media in order to compete in such a large market. Everywhere you turn, you can see advertisements for various types of businesses and their products. Have you ever thought about how much it costs or how much planning goes into getting ads in front of your faces? Keeping a business’ social media platforms updated is crucial because more consumers will be aware of its products and offerings, and the business will be more suited to compete with top industry performers. At both offices, I collaborated with many different employees for various assigned projects. While the employees I worked with helped me develop my career and grow as a professional, they also pushed me to pursue my dreams. Their dedication to their jobs inspired me to not only work harder, but also to love what I’m working towards: a future in public relations. What really set me up for success at my two internships
were skills that I learned my freshman year, specifically time management and responsibility. Each day when I arrived at the office, I was given a list of tasks to have finished by the end of the day. The two different people I worked for at these companies both trusted me to complete important public relations work to help drive the business. I had to manage my time responsibly in order to make sure I was not only doing what was required of me for the day, but contributing to the company’s overall success. Summer internships might not bring the word “relaxation” to mind, but they provide opportunities for students to get hands-on experience in their area of study outside of college. Summer internships are not just a way for students to knock off a course requirement or get paid. The work experience that internships provide is essential for students to build their careers and exceed beyond the classroom.
Time management skills set students up for success.
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August 30, 2017 The Signal page 7
Students share opinions around campus “Do you like the new name for the admissions building?”
Brielle Bryan / Opinions Editor
John Montagna, a sophomore economics major. “They could’ve come up with something better than Trenton. There’s a lot of history in this area.”
Brielle Bryan / Opinions Editor
Michael Maciolek, a sophomore open options humanities and social sciences major. “I think so. They did the research and people wanted it, so why not?”
“Should summer internships be a course requirement?”
Brielle Bryan / Opinions Editor
Alec Lipanovski, a junior open options business major. “I don’t think it’s a bad thing. I think it would be beneficial to the students.”
Brielle Bryan / Opinions Editor
Mark Bastidas, a freshman psychology major. “Yeah, I do. If you’re not required to do it then you don’t have the motivation.”
The Signal’s cartoons of the week...
page 8 The Signal August 30, 2017
Features
Literature lives in study abroad session
Photos courtesy of Michele Lise Tarter
Left: Study abroad trips create a lifetime of memories. Right: Students experience the San Fermin Festival in Pamplona, Spain. By Judith Patrick Correspondent “The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.” This quote from St. Augustine holds true for one of the College’s most recent study abroad trip to Harlaxton, England. While studying “Literary Landscapes,” students traveled around Europe, “(bringing) literature to life,” according to English professor and director of the trip Michele Lise Tarter. After reading Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” students saw the play performed at The Globe Theatre in London and traveled to Verona, Italy to visit the play’s setting. Students also studied F. Scott Fitzgerald’s book, “Tender is the Night” and visited Cote d’Azur, the setting of the novel along the Mediterranean coast in France. Students finished the course with trips to the San Fermin Festival in Pamplona, Spain. They also visited Barcelona while studying
Ernest Hemingway’s “The Sun Also Rises.” Still, a course is more than just its syllabus. As with any college class, the summer abroad trip furthered students’ education, but it also helped them become more wellrounded by exposing them to new cultures, histories and places. “To be a part of ‘Literary Landscapes’ has been the highlight of my life,” said Martha Barabas, a senior English and secondary education dual major. “This class has marked a period of exponential growth, and has allowed me to embark on adventures that I will be chasing the rest of my life.” Kenneth Shindle, a senior English major, recalled feeling at peace during the trip, especially while staying in Italy. “Some of my friends and I sat on a hill in Palazzo Giusti, a collection of gardens in east Verona,” Shindle said. “It was totally quiet and serene, and it overlooked the city and offered an incredible, expansive view of hundreds of old houses and churches. I laid back and fell asleep on the hill with a smile on my face. I’d never felt
so at peace.” Students weren’t the only ones with life changing experiences during the trip. Tarter, who has been facilitating study abroad trips for 15 years, says she still has aweinspiring experiences. Tarter reflected on her time in Pamplona, where the students arrived for the first day of the week-long San Fermin Festival, also known as the Running of the Bulls. On the very first morning, the group woke up at 4 a.m., took a local bus into the village and secured a spot above the starting line. “At 8 a.m., the rocket went off, the gate was swung open and out ran the bulls,” Tarter said. “There were thousands of men who chose to run with the bulls. It was an extraordinary moment to witness. The excitement was palpable in the air. I will never, ever forget it.” For students who are able to go abroad but are nervous or worried, the study abroad veterans had some advice: try and go in slow and do your research.
Interested students can visit the Center for Global Engagement office in Roscoe West Hall or go to one of the study abroad fairs hosted by the College. There are many courses that are offered each summer, and are open to students of all majors. Tarter added that next year’s locations are already planned. In 2018, students will be able to travel to countries such as England, Hungary and Poland to study the works of Bram Stoker’s “Dracula” and Anne Frank’s “Diary of a Young Girl.” After returning back to the states, Tarter said she hopes her students will open their eyes to other cultures and enhance their sense of global consciousness. “I think experiential learning is the most inspiring, transformative education there is. I love taking students beyond the classroom and right into the literature we are studying,” Tarter said. Although each student gained a different experience from their time abroad, many students agreed it is a worthwhile opportunity.
Portugal trip provides new perspective on drug abuse
Photo courtesy of Sandy Gibson
Students gain insight on drug addiction. By Jennifer Goetz Staff Writer
Graduate and undergraduate students at the College had the opportunity to travel to Lisbon, Portugal this summer to learn about counseling and drug addiction. Courses offered included “Substance Abuse and Addiction: Individual, Family, and Society,” and “Treating Addiction & Co-Occuring Disorders.”
This was the fourth year graduate students at the College had the chance to visit Portugal while learning about drugs and addiction, and the first for undergraduate students. Class sessions lasted seven or eight days and took place at St. Julian’s, an international school located in Carcavelos. Being a short distance from Lisbon and the beach allowed students to enjoy weekends exploring away from the classroom.
Luke Thompson, a graduate student studying school counseling, expressed why the class was important to him. “I wanted to take a course related to substance abuse because it is such a salient subject in the school setting,” Thompson said. International students who also partook in the study abroad trip brought different perspectives to the group. “I learned along both my onsite peers as well as international students from Mexico, Taiwan and China, who all share their own perspectives,” Thompson said. Through coursework and various field trips around Portugal, students were able to learn how drug policies in other countries differ from the U.S. “We really get a global perspective when we take the course in Portugal,” said Sandy Gibson, an associate professor of counselor education and faculty leader of the trip. According to Gibson, the U.S. is the only country that allows pharmaceutical companies to market to the public, allowing Americans to access more prescription medication than needed.
In addition, the U.S. also has the largest incarceration rates. Many prisons in the U.S. are privatized and can give donations to politicians to make sure that the prison system continues running. “We are taught really negative things about people who use drugs,” Gibson said. There is negative stigma surrounding drug users because Americans are unaware of the circumstances behind drug use, and there is a lack of understanding in the U.S. about the origins of addiction, according to Gibson. This situation, almost anywhere else, is very different. In Portugal, Law 30/2000 was enacted in 2001 to decriminalize drug use. Prior to 2001, drug use in Portugal was “considered a criminal offense punishable with imprisonment up to three months or a fine,” according to the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction. Since 2001, if police catch someone with a modest amount of an illegal substance, and that person is not suspected of having any other offences, they will be redirected to a commission. Comprised of a lawyer, doctor
and social assistant, the commission offers treatment and aid, however it will not force an individual to accept help. This policy has its limits— if a person has a “greater than personal amount” of drugs in his or her possession, more severe actions will be taken. Portugal’s approach to looking at drug abuse has served as a model for other countries, making it a perfect place for students to witness how a government functions with a policy that decriminalizes drug use, according to Thompson. “The site visits helped illustrate Portugal’s values related to addiction: that it is a public health concern, and not a criminal justice one,” Thompson said. Studying abroad in Portugal has allowed ample opportunity for students to expand what they’ve learned in the classroom and apply it to real life scenarios. “I love seeing (students’) perspectives change,” Gibson said. “Students have a new mindset when it comes to drug addiction, and are quicker to sympathize than to judge. Classes like (this one) help students take a look at addiction from a new perspective.”
August 30, 2017 The Signal page 9
: Sept. 2000 Students move in to new homes
Campus Style
Ashton Leber / Features Editor
Freshmen carry their belongings to their dorm rooms.
Every week, Features Editor Ashton Leber hits the archives and finds old Signals that relate to current College topics and top stories. It’s hard to believe another school year is already here. Freshmen are eager to move into their new home at the College and begin a new chapter in their lives. Although moving in can be a stressful experience, upperclassman at the College anxiously wait to help speed up the process and give an extra set of helping hands. In 2000, several organizations on campus helped freshman with the move-in process. Unlike previous move-in days, students and college staff said moving in this semester was relatively easy. College staff reported no noticeable problems, and said the smaller flare-ups were quickly fixed. Students said broken elevators in the Towers were the biggest problems, although Residence Life said an elevator repairman quickly repaired them. Dave Lepelletir, freshman biology major, said he waited up to 20 minutes per elevator ride. Lukus Wodka, a freshman art major living in Travers, said he was concerned with the parking lot, where it was nearly impossible to find a spot.
Overall, Wodka said “It went pretty well when you think about how many people were moving in, and how much stuff they carried.” Amber Griffies, freshman chemistry major, said the beginning of the day was much smoother than the end, when lines for the elevator stretched outside the basements of Travers and Wolfe. On the other hand, Jay Sabino, a psychology major and Travers and Wolfe C.A., said move-in day went “very well.” He said he served juice to parents and students while they were moving in. “Everything went smoothly as far as I’m concerned. It was as best as it could have been with 1,000 kids moving in,” he said. Students from ROTC, various Greek organizations, ambassadors, upperclassman and other student organizations helped freshmen move into their new dorm rooms during Welcome Week. However, C.A.s also helped freshman carry bags and rearrange rooms. Mary-Elaine Perry, dean of Student Life, said moving in was a huge success this year. She said she received compliments from parents on the hassle-free day.
The Culinary Club Presents...
Lions Plate
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Left: One-piece bathing suits are a hot trend. Right: Mom jeans have become a wardrobe necessity. By Jillian Greene Columnist
With summer coming to an end, it’s hard to believe students will soon be rushing around campus in fabulous new outfits. Reflecting on this season’s trends, it’s safe to say this summer’s fashion was one for the books. We’ve seen some of these trends before, as fashion comes full circle. For instance, this summer we saw an explosion of retro-styled bathing suits. The high-cut bikinis and one pieces were everywhere –– just about every online retail site had some available to purchase. But, the retro swimsuit style wasn’t the only one to hit the beaches. From the plethora of cut-out one-pieces to offthe-shoulder bikinis, it seemed like no
one cared about silly tan lines this year. As long as they got to show off their stylish bathing suits, they were content. As for denim, yes the mom jeans (and shorts) are still in. At this point, low-rise anything just feels wrong. Pair your mom jeans with an off-the-shoulder top and birkenstock sandals and you’ve got the perfect first day of school outfit. But don’t forget your accessories! Chokers go perfectly with an off-theshoulder top and can be found in almost any store. Although I’m excited to enter the fall fashion season, we still have a little more time before the weather turns and leaves begin to pile up. So don’t forget to bring your favorite summer fashion items back to school and keep these trends alive as long as we can.
: tasty unicorn cupcakes their comfort zone this semester. All you need is a little food dye, some sprinkles and a pinch of imagination. Ingredients: Colorful sprinkles Neon food dye 16 ounces of vanilla frosting container 2 gallon sized plastic bags 1 package of vanilla cupcake mix 2 dozen cupcake liners
Cupcakes are a customizable treat for any occasion.
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By Julia Dzurillay Columnist
From rainbow bagels to unicorn drinks and galaxy donuts, the colorful dessert trend has taken over our social media feeds. By following a few simple steps, you can create your own Instagram-worthy treat with delicious cupcakes. This unicorn cupcake recipe is great for beginner bakers looking to step out of
Directions: 1. Prepare your pan with cupcake liners and preheat oven according to the directions on the box. 2. Make cupcake batter according to instructions on box. 3. Separate batter into four bowls. 4. In each of the four bowls, add a different color food dye and mix well. 5. Scoop two heaping spoonfuls of each color batter into one of the plastic bags. 6. Seal the plastic bag and cut one of the bottom corners. Pour batter into each cupcake liner until half full. 7. Bake cupcakes according to the box directions. Set aside to cool for approximately 10 minutes. 8. While the cupcakes are baking, prepare the icing. 9. Separate icing into four bowls and add a different color of food dye to each bowl. Mix well. 10. Place the other gallon sized bag in a tall glass with one of the bottom corners facing the bottom of the glass. This will make it easier to pour the icing into the bag. 11. Add each color to the side of the bag without crossing each other. This will create a swirled color effect when the icing is added to the cupcakes. 12. Snip the bottom corner of the bag and push the icing through the opening. 13. Spread the icing onto the cupcakes, add sprinkles and enjoy!
page 10 The Signal August 30, 2017
Arts & Entertainment
Inside summer 2017’s biggest blockbusters
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Left: ‘The Big Sick’ is a touching film. Right: ‘Spider Man: Homecoming’ is a faithful take on the original comic. By Sean Reis Staff Writer
When most people think about the summer, their mind immediately jumps to the beach — the feeling of the sand on their feet, the sound of crashing waves and the smell of the boardwalk. I do too, as any good New Jerseyan should, but another scene comes to my mind before the shore: the movie theater, from the feeling of the sticky floors with every step, the sound of a beautiful score and, obviously, the smell of the popcorn drowning in butter. The summer blockbusters have always been a personal staple for me each year, and although the theaters may not fill seats quite like they used to, the season’s films have continued to live up to the Oscar-winning movies of past years. Summer 2017, specifically, may have been one of the best years for movies during my young lifetime with films breaking the box office across all genres. The superheroes undoubtedly dominated, however
“Spider-Man: Homecoming,” “Wonder Woman” and “Guardians of the Galaxy: Vol. 2” weren’t the only movies to see this past summer. “Baby Driver” surprised fans with action-packed cinematography accompanied by a flawless soundtrack. “Dunkirk” kept audiences on the edge of their seats for a symphonic war story told unlike any other. “The Big Sick” brought loved ones together on an emotional rollercoaster filled with such strong feelings that sometimes they would find themselves awkwardly laughing and crying at the same time. Furthermore, while Ansel Elgort proved himself as an actor, Harry Styles made his debut, and Kumail Nanjiani headlined Oscar buzz. Other movies such as “War for the Planet of the Apes,” “Lady Macbeth” and “Atomic Blonde” — all of which I regrettably missed in theatres — also received high praises from critics and fans alike. I personally can only stamp the first six movies mentioned for approval, all six of which I made the trip to the theater to support. Though it is impossible — or at
the very least difficult — to pick the summer’s “best” film due to varying genres, there was one movie that stood out the most. “Spider-Man: Homecoming,” starring Tom Holland, had easily been the best of the summer’s superheroes, but director Edgar Wright’s surprise masterpiece “Baby Driver” ultimately was just that much better. With Elgort and other well-casted supporting roles from co-stars Kevin Spacey, Lily James and Jon Hamm, “Baby Driver” was definitely an experience born for the big screen. As a gifted getaway driver, Baby (Elgort) lives a criminal lifestyle until he suddenly meets his dream girl, Deborah (James), and he must find an escape. The audience follows Baby’s adventure between action and love as though we are not only in his shoes, but also in his ears as the audience listens to Baby’s favorite music for the film’s soundtrack –– synchronized, mixed and mastered with Wright’s cinematography. Unprecedented, “Baby Driver” ultimately stood out as a theatrical joyride and the surprise summer 2017 blockbuster.
Pentatonix members release new music By Julia Dzurillay Staff Writer
The newest pop superstars are finally bursting into the trending music scene, full of color and flavor. Superfruit –– what began as a YouTube channel –– has become the name of a band consisting of Scott Hoying and Mitch Grassi from the acapella group, Pentatonix. After one member of the Grammy Award-winning quintet took a step back from the spotlight, Hoying and Grassi decided to take their internet presence to the next level. Because their YouTube channel has gained so much popularity, with over two million subscribers, the boys have shifted gears this spring –– instead of releasing Q&A or challenge videos each week as they had done previously, the boys have begun to use their channel to release new singles, medleys and covers. They also released their epic album, “Future Friends,” in June. The name “Superfruit,” which started out as the name of their YouTube channel, soon became their band name as well. Though Grassi and Hoying continue to make music with Pentatonix, “Future Friends” is a departure from Pentatonix’s signature acapella sound. Although both the artists behind Superfruit and Pentatonix
push musical boundaries, Grassi and Hoying use their original lyrics, as well as instruments, to take Superfruit in a completely different direction. The first half of “Future Friends,” released in June, introduces bold themes that help reimagine the group’s aesthetic. By combining vintage guitar riffs and trending harmonies used by bands like Oh Wonder, “Future Friends” gives off a nostalgic feel, while still keeping its own fresh and innovative style. As the summer has progressed, Hoying and Grassi have released music videos for each of their new tracks that feature famous dancers, ’90s sleepovers and heartshaped jackets. Each video features a kaleidoscope of colors, people and props that together weave the stories of the songs together. In the video for “Heartthrob,” the two boys lament over their favorite celebrity crushes, complete with lip-shaped phones, posters of John Stamos and bright pink nail polish. Their video for “Worth It (Perfect)” features two lovers who dance through all their troubles. Perhaps the most memorable song on the album, “Imaginary Parties,” is unlike anything else in the music scene currently. With sensual lyrics and background noises, Superfruit curated the perfect combination of electronic, funky
and satisfying sounds for their listeners, with a vibrant and fashion-forward music video to match. These two refreshed faces are perfect for a twist in your typical pop music. Whether you’re driving to the beach or driving to the supermarket, Superfruit has some
of the freshest, juiciest songs of 2017 to jam to –– but that’s not all. Superfruit’s self-proclaimed “super music” is set to give listeners two heaping doses of pop singles. “Future Friends: Part 2” is set to be released on Sept. 15, so get ready for even more dance anthems from this dynamic duo.
Grassi and Hoying kick off their independent musical journey as Superfruit.
RCA Records
August 30, 2017 The Signal page 11
Kesha’s record a colorful ‘Rainbow’ of Emotion
Kemosabe Records
‘Rainbow’ is an album full of emotion and soul. By Danielle Silvia Social Media Editor
Kesha released her third studio album, “Rainbow,” on Aug. 11. The album is inspired by Kesha’s “true” musical inspirations, like Iggy Pop, T. Rex, Dolly Parton, The Beach Boys and The Beatles, to name only a few. Kesha, similar to the themes of her previous albums, uses a multitude of distinct artistic outlets to express her deepest feelings about love, loss and life. “Rainbow,” colorful in spirit and soul, keeps listeners engaged by offering a wide range of emotions in its songs. The album opens with the
song “Bastards,” a country-inspired song that’s upbeat from the get-go. The line from the first verse, “I could fight forever, oh, but life’s too short,” shines a light on Kesha’s intolerance toward bullying. “Rainbow” is also about pride, perhaps an allusion to the symbol for LGTBQ pride. In “Woman,” Kesha connects with her female listeners. She expresses her struggle with women’s rights and how she demands equal treatment. She sings about the definition of womanhood derived from her personal experiences. As a woman, Kesha stresses her need for independence. The lyrics “I don’t need a man to be holding me too
tight I’m a woman, baby, that’s right, I’m just having fun with my ladies here tonight” capture her message without sacrificing musical appeal. The song “Spaceship” delves into a whole new world of Kesha’s creative character — her determination. The pre-chorus pours into the hearts of her fans with the words, “I’m waiting for my spaceship to come back to me, it’s coming back for me, And I don’t really care if you believe it’s coming back for me, yeah, been livin’ in a lonesome galaxy, but in my dreams I’ll see ‘em come and rescue me.” The song emphasizes the importance of leaving a situation that makes him or her feel unhappy or unsafe. Kesha proclaims that she is destined for bigger and better things and seeks to be surrounded by love rather than danger. By describing her spaceship as her escape into a new reality, she uses stars, the sky and alien life to describe her metaphorical life journey. “Praying” slows things down and depicts two sides of Kesha’s personal story. Kesha expresses that she has become stronger from the pain an enemy inflicted on her. She focuses on how she found strength both during and after the relationship. On the flip side, Kesha exclaims that she does not want revenge or tension, but
she does hope that her enemy has found peace. “Praying,” one of the album’s most personal songs, and is a declaration of strength. The main takeaway from the song is that with strength and faith, one can conquer anything in his or her life. Kesha and Dr. Luke, her former producer, had a rocky relationship that sadly ended in a lawsuit over defamation and a breach of contract. Kesha alleges Dr. Luke physically and sexually assaulted her. Much of “Rainbow” is Kesha’s outpouring of emotion and creativity after the court injunction prevented her from recording new music during the lawsuit. Although Kesha has always had
a rather edgy and eccentric air, she has earned a new pair of wings in her newest album. This album will hopefully inspire Kesha’s fans to be strong and be proud of their past and future. Most of all, Kesha is proud of where she stands now and looks forward to who she strives to become, according an interview with Billboard. “Writing songs is the only way I know how to process things,” Kesha said in the interview. “The whole album idea and tour and everything, came from me crying and singing and playing and dreaming until my hour was up and they took the keyboard away again.”
Kesha’s honest songwriting connects with fans.
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Netflix series puts new twist on ’80s classic By Sumayah Medlin Correspondent Netflix’s latest original series, “GLOW,” an acronym for Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling, is a scripted behind-the-scenes of a preexisting ’80s show, of the same title, that was the first to feature all female wrestlers. The original series was different from regular wrestling in more ways than one. The choice to have female wrestlers is the obvious difference, but it also involved music, and very overdramatized characters — even for wrestling standards. Debbie, played by Betty Gilpin of “Nurse Jackie,” notes that wrestling is like a soap opera. “GLOW” exclusively features unconventional women, from women who lactate in their aerobics classes to women who are considered to be “too real” for directors, according to one casting agent in the show. The gorgeous ladies are aspiring actresses that haven’t gotten their big break yet because they’re too opinionated, big, black or just generally different from what society deems acceptable. Lucky for them, so is the director Sam Sylvia (Marc Maron). All of his movies are simply ripoffs of other big budget films such as his movie, “Mothers and Lovers,” which is very similar to “Back to the Future,” with some added incest. It’s not that hard to assume why he’s working so hard to get “GLOW” on the air. The show opens up with Ruth (Alison Brie) in the middle of an audition. She deliberately reads the male part’s lines, because, “it’s the better part,” which the casting agent agrees on. She frequently pulls stints of the sort so that she can get a character that has more substance than the male character’s wife. She never gets the role, until she gets “GLOW.” She and all the other women have no idea what they’re in for. The women on screen understandably feel underappreciated. They’re real, which is cool on paper, but not actually what the directors want when they see them in person. They usually don’t get cast, and if they do, they’re relegated to doing porn or being stuck in a coma for an entire season. I applaud “GLOW”’s very real portrayal of sexism against women, since one of the best ways to combat
sexism is to acknowledge its existence. The show itself was pretty difficult for me to get into. When I first saw the trailer, I wasn’t that inclined to watch because wrestling is not really my thing, and the promise of ’80s neon and acid wash jeans didn’t help that case. Another downside was the main character, Ruth, who reminds me of a season one Rachel Berry from “Glee” — both are very entitled and seem to think that they have way more talent and professionalism than the rest, even though Ruth repeatedly ignores the director’s stage directions. She’s one of my least favorite characters, which makes watching the show almost like a chore — and she has so much screen time! To my surprise, the show actually grew on me. I was holding back tears by the last episode and looking forward to the next season. I even found myself sympathizing with Ruth in a few
of the scenes. Overall, it has all of the crucial elements from most decent TV genres. It’s not good enough that I would watch season two the instant it premieres on Netflix, but I will eventually get around to it. Considering only the first episode of the fictional “GLOW” has been filmed in the show, there’s still so much we haven’t seen yet, such as the process of getting the show on the air. Audiences aren’t naïve enough to think that there will be smooth sailing so soon. Of course, there will be more trials and tribulations that the cast and crew will experience. “GLOW” has more plot than it does wrestling, so I would recommend this show to a lover of Netflix originals, rather than a pure wrestling fan. Wrestling fans could always watch the ’80s original, and Netflix’s “GLOW” is putting it back on the map for a new generation.
‘GLOW’ highlights the importance of women’s rights in the entertainment industry.
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page 12 The Signal August 30, 2017
Harry finds new ‘Styles’ in recent album
Columbia Records
Styles sheds his boyband persona with his self-titled album. By Lily Firth Reviews Editor
“Harry Styles,” the longawaited debut album from exOne Direction member, Harry Styles, was finally released in May, and longtime fans and casual listeners alike are still buzzing about the latest hits. Many fans were skeptical about the former boyband star’s album — some expected nothing more than a sugar-coated pop album, but the singer surprised the world with his own
original sound. Experimenting with heavy guitars and beautiful ballads, Harry Styles decided to puts his own spin on alternative music. Critics praised Styles for his attempt to “bring rock back into popularity and mainstream music,” according to Rolling Stone. Many of his pieces include electric guitar solos and riffs, but not to the point where listeners feel he’s just smashing chords together — they are done in a professional and impressive manner that pulls at
people’s heartstrings. The beats are funky and nothing like what is being played on the radio these days, even by his former bandmates, who seem to be experimenting with other genres like hip hop and R&B. Styles explained in an interview with E! News how One Direction’s band members had such different artistic views attributed to the break up, starting with Zayn Malik’s departure in early 2015. Many of them felt trapped in the strict management that wanted them to regurgitate pop songs for profit and popularity, which put stress and restrictions on the boys, considering their diverse talents. Styles vehemently states that he and the other boys are still good friends, but if they stayed together they might not have been. He also notes that is very proud of his bandmates for their accomplishments following the break. Not only is the music itself done beautifully, the lyrics that Styles wrote show his ability to weave his emotions into his work, as well as send out important messages to his fans. His first single, “Sign of
the Times,” sang in Styles’ famous falsetto, urges people to stop crying and learn to accept and improve on the state of the world around them. Another ballad, “Meet me in the Hallway,” begs his ex-lover to meet back up with him because he knows he messed up by letting his pain and habits get into the way of treating her better. But not all of his songs are sad or reflective. “Carolina,” which he wrote about a girl he fell in love with, even though he only met her once, talks about a hard-edged girl that is driving him crazy. Every song is honest and distinct — he talks about issues and intimate personal experiences that helps his listeners stay connected with him. “Harry Styles” debuted at the top of many countries’ charts, including the U.S., Australia, Canada, and of course his home country, the U.K. The album has received phenomenal feedback, still topping the charts months later. Although Styles took a huge risk with his new music, it paid off. With an album like this, his long-term solo stardom is almost assured.
‘Girls Trip’ an endearing performance
The film portrays black culture in a favorable light. By Brianna Sheppard Staff Writer
The box-office hit, “Girls Trip,” is not only making critics laugh, but it’s a breath of fresh air that moviegoers have been waiting to see. The film takes the notion of black representation in the media to a new level, from the genius of a critically acclaimed all-black film crew consisting of director Malcolm D. Lee, producer Will Packer and screenwriters Kenya Barris and Tracy Oliver. Since it premiered on June 14, people have been raving about the hilarious and witty film, as well as the all-star cast of Jada Pinkett-Smith, Queen Latifah, Regina Hall and breakout star Tiffany Haddish. Haddish’s ability to push the envelope and bridge the gap between wise and raunchy with her timeless — but always on time — comedy style was both entertaining and refreshing. The film follows the main character Ryan (Hall) and her three friends Dina, Lisa and Sasha on a trip to New Orleans for the Essence Music Festival to promote her new book that proclaims that women can have it all. Despite her book’s empowering theme, things for Ryan start falling apart when her marriage faces a scandal. She’s left in the hands of her three good friends, coined the “Flossey Posse,” to put the pieces back together.
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Now, there are definitely some tearjerker moments and emotional moments in the film, but it never took away from the extremely hilarious plot. The characters get into all sorts of mischief as they let loose like never before. From Jada Pinkett-Smith making out with a screen to Queen Latifah going to second base with a lamp, it was side splitting to say the least. On the more serious side, it was enlightening to watch the beautiful journey of four
friends coming back together to partake in the festivities of the annual Essence Festival to experience womanhood and culture. “Girls Trip” is an adventure and beyond as they experience fun, fights, bonding and the appreciation of a good support system, which are aspects of our life that we tend to take for granted. That point is made by the lovely character Ryan when she finally comes clean about her marriage scandal and realizes that her three friends will always have her back. If you haven’t seen “Girls Trip,” I suggest you make it a point to see it soon. It’s worth spending the money and having a friend’s night out because it’s an amazing film. The actresses do a phenomenal job of placing the film in the perspective of black women without a tendency to self-loathe or desperately seek for affection through majority of the film — I’m looking at you Terry McMillan. But in all seriousness, let’s stop waiting to exhale and finally breathe and live a fun life — the ultimate message of “Girls Trip.” I honestly wish it had been longer and when it is released on DVD, I will be sure to purchase it. This film will be a classic. Truly, carefree black girl magic at its finest — and a proud moment for black culture.
This week, WTSR Assistant Music Director EJ Paras highlights some of the best new music that the College’s own radio station, 91.3 FM WTSR, puts into its weekly rotation.
Name: Gorillaz Album Title: “Humanz” Release Number: 5th LP Hailing From: Essex, England Genre: Alternative Hip-Hop Label: Parlophone/Warner Bros. Musically, “Pure Comedy” is relevant to the social climate of 2017. Band member Damon Albarn wrote this album thinking about how he thought the future would look given the major events happening around the world, specifically in America. There’s a distinct narrative that follows the album. “Let Me Out” is about living in America under Donald Trump’s presidency. Dubbed “a party playlist for the end of the world,” this album doesn’t disappoint. Hiphop beats, the occasional synth, Albarn’s smooth voice… it’s been a long time coming, but welcome back Gorillaz. Must Hear: “Strobelite,” “Submission” and “Charger”
Band Name: Diet Cig Album Title: “Swear I’m Good at This” Release Number: 2nd Hailing From: New Paltz, New York Genre: Lo-fi Garage Rock Label: Frenchkiss Records Alex Luciano brings a lyrical punch to every word she throws in this album. Deadpan line after deadpan line, her lyrics are a big fuck you to the guys who wronged her through the years. Her lyrics are also great for when you’re feeling down in the dumps. That being the case, most of these lyrics are pretty funny. Alex’s smooth, light and squeaky voice alongside her dirty guitar riffs and Noah Bowman’s quick, punchy drumlines all equal a fun time.
The close-knit protagonists learn about the importance of friendship.
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Must Hear: “Maid of the Mist,” “Barf day” and “Tummy Ache”
August 30, 2017 The Signal page 13
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page 14 The Signal August 30, 2017
Sports
Women’s Soccer
New players, new expectations for women’s soccer
Photo courtesy of Sports Information Desk
The team hopes to replace key graduates like Weeder. By Michael Battista Staff Writer
Before most students arrived at the College, the women’s soccer team was hard at work preparing for its upcoming season. The Lions dominated last season. They pushed for a 14-game winning streak and earned a New Jersey Athletic Conference regular season title. During the run, the team had an impressive squad of 15 freshman who will now be returning as sophomores. Sophomore goalkeeper Nicole DiPasquale was fond of her first year. “Last season will definitely be one that I will never forget,” DiPasquale said. “Coming in as a freshmen to this team was one of the best things I have ever experienced. I have never been apart of such a close
team before. We were truly a family and it showed on the field.” With every gain comes a loss, however, as the team graduated midfielders Lauren Malajian, Sarah Marion, Marissa Scognamiglio and Marykate Sullivan along with defender Brianna Petro, forward Christine Levering and goalkeeper Jessica Weeder. Levering was the leading goalscorer last season and Weeder started every game for the team. Weeder was in her fifth year at the College and had been a dominant force on the field for much of her tenure. “Playing under Jessica Weeder was a great experience and I definitely learned a lot,” DiPasquale said about her former teammate. “She was not only a great goalkeeper, but also a great mentor.” The team is looking to replace its seniors with a batch of new players, while last
year’s large freshman class hopes to use its newfound experience in full. DiPasquale hopes she and her fellow sophomores can help create the same sort of atmosphere as last season. “Our freshmen class was super close right off the bat, and it’s exciting being able to share our strong bonds with the class below us,” DiPasquale said. “The team has high hopes that our strong friendships will relay itself on the field and help the team as a whole. We want to give the freshmen as good of an experience as the upperclassmen gave us last year.” If they can recreate the same sort of play as last season, the Lions have the potential to be a dominant force in the NJAC. The Lions earned eight out of 10 votes in the preseason coaches poll, according to an NJAC press release. Rowan University and Montclair University earned the remaining
two votes, respectively. Though the lady lions may have struggled throughout the past three seasons in the NJAC finals and NCAA Tournament, players remain optimistic. For the seniors, this could be their last chance to finally break that barrier and earn a coveted postseason title. DiPasquale has a lot of confidence, despite several roster changes. “I have no doubts that our team chemistry will be any different than it was last year,” DiPasquale said. “That being said, I am very confident that we will be very successful this year.” The Lions begin the year with the Haverford College Kick Off Classic in Hartford, Pennsylvania, on Saturday, Sept. 2, against CUNY York at 4 p.m. The Lions start the regular season a week later on Saturday, Sept. 9, in Collegeville, Pennsylvania, against Ursinus College at 1 p.m.
Photo courtesy of Sports Information Desk
The Lions have their eyes set on an NJAC title.
Men’s Soccer
Lions set to shock opponents as NJAC underdogs
Left: Walsh looks to keep opposition off the board. Right: Dresch returns as a midfielder for the Lions. By Miguel Gonzalez Sports Editor After reaching the conference semifinals last season, the men’s soccer team hopes to contend for a New Jersey Athletic Conference title this season. The Lions are ranked sixth in the annual NJAC preseason coaches poll. Senior forward Michael Kassak and senior midfielder Peter Dresch will strive to increase the Lion’s offensive output. With last year’s best three scorers graduated, the Lions will feature new stars to the
lineup. Junior midfielder Nick Sample looks to supply more assists to junior midfielder Joerg Jauk, sophomore forward Mateo Panizza and junior midfielder Aaron Conyer. Meanwhile, junior goalkeeper Dan Walsh leads a more experienced defense with the defensive duo of junior defender Nick Provenzano and sophomore defender Matt Decker. The Lions look to maintain their rigid defense that only allowed 1.5 goals per game last season. Last season, the majority of the team’s losses were by one
goal. In addition, the team endured four shutouts. “We have a ton of talent this year,” Kassak said. “We only lost four starters last year and our returning players are very experienced. A lot of the returners have been significant contributors since their freshman year and have experience in big games like the NJAC playoffs.” The Lions will compete against formidable conference foes. Rowan University returns as the reigning conference champion. Meanwhile, Rutgers University-Newark features a battle-tested roster who
reached the fourth round of the 2016 NCAA tournament last year. “The NJAC is one of the most competitive, if not, the most competitive conferences in the country, having four teams make it to NCAA’s last year,” Kassak said. “The team plans on advancing further in the tournament by taking the season one game at a time. You can’t count any teams out or take any games off to compete in this conference. We have a lot of returners and have had great camaraderie in the past.” The Lions will open their season at Frostburg State University
Photos courtesy of Sports Information Desk
on Friday, Sept. 1. The team is scheduled to play their first home match against Stevens Institute of Technology on Wednesday, Sept. 6, at Lions Stadium. The team’s first conference match is set against William Paterson University on Saturday, Sept. 16, at the Soccer Complex. “We plan to leverage that team chemistry again this year along with our returning and incoming talent to take us far in the NJAC and NCAA’s,” Kassak said. “We will surprise a lot of teams this year and we expect to compete for the NJAC Championship.”
August 30, 2017 The Signal page 15 Cheap Seats
‘The Money Fight’ worth cost of admission
AP Photo
McGregor falls short of going the distance against Mayweather. By Michael Battista Staff Writer
Boxing’s decline has coincided with the rise of MMA. MMA, now the darling of professional combat sports, has thrived with a younger audience that boxing can’t seem to attract. For one night, two of the biggest names in each of their respective sports collided. Floyd “Money” Mayweather Jr., boxing’s 49-0 main attraction, took on “The Notorious” Conor McGregor, the Irish
loud-mouth poster boy of the UFC. They met for a boxing match in Las Vegas, Nevada on Aug. 26, in what many dubbed “The Biggest Fight in Combat Sports History.” Many fighting purists called it a spectacle and not a real fight. The fight marked Mayweather’s return to the ring in nearly two years and McGregor’s first ever professional boxing match. The pre-fight coverage was nearly insufferable with claims of racism, bigotry, misogyny and every other hot button issue
flying out of ESPN faster than freshmen darting for meal equiv. Both fighters claimed the fight wouldn’t go the distance and technically they were right. Mayweather was able to dominate McGregor in the 10th round of the 12-round contest after one minute and five seconds, causing referee Robert Byrd to stop the match and give the boxing legend his 50th win. McGregor shocked many skeptics — he came out strong in the first three rounds. You can argue
that Mayweather took one of the first three rounds, but McGregor’s reach and ability to switch stances and styles so quickly pushed his opponent back. McGregor countered Mayweather. He didn’t perform as just a brute MMA fighter, but as someone who could fight with technique and style. If it wasn’t for the constant hammer punches in the corner and other awkward antics, I would have actually believed McGregor could go all the way early on. McGregor’s abilities weren’t enough to overcome Mayweather. His sporadic low punches, leaning in too far, aforementioned hammer punches in the corner and low energy culminated in his eventual defeat. I can’t fault the man too much since it was his first professional boxing fight, but in the end these mistakes led to his downfall. After the early going, I saw the match slow down and Mayweather began to take the lead, while the UFC champ snagged a round or two in the middle. “That was our game plan,” Mayweather told Showtime Boxing. “Our game plan was to take our time, go to him, let him shoot all his heavy shots early and then take him out at the end down the stretch.” “Me and my dad (Floyd Mayweather Sr., Jr.’s trainer) talked about it,” he added. “We wanted him to shoot his heavy shots in the beginning because we know
in the MMA, he fights 25 minutes real hard. After 25 minutes, he starts to slow down.” For all the hate he received, Mayweather is still the face of modern professional boxing. He’s undefeated, he’s charismatic and he always has a plan whenever he steps between those ropes. Mayweather veered from his usual style — by round four he was stepping toward McGregor. Mayweather was landing punch after punch to the body and combining counters with a flurry of jabs. McGregor’s early bursts depleted him, and he earned his first ever professional boxing defeat in the 10th round after Byrd stopped the fight — Mayweather’s first technical knockout in nearly 10 years and his first knockout decision in nearly six years. He had to change his style to do so, by peppering light jabs to gain points and taking the rounds to try chip down a much younger, taller fighter. With his win and overtaking Rocky Marciano’s 49-0 record, Mayweather once again announced his retirement from boxing. McGregor said he plans to return to UFC, but might possibly box again. Aug. 26 won’t be remembered as the day boxing was saved, but I think it will be remembered as a shining moment where two icons clashed, if only for a brief moment and some worthwhile entertainment.
Cross Country
Lions cross country aims for success at nationals
Photos courtesy of Sports Information Desk
Left: Cooper takes 47th in the nation at the 2016 NCAA Championship. Right: Runners from last season place 30th in the NCAA Championship. By Miguel Gonzalez Sports Editor
After appearing in the 2016 NCAA Division III Cross Country Championship, the Lions aim for the podium. The men’s cross country team will strive to claim their 24th consecutive New Jersey Athletic Conference title and to finish first at the Atlantic Regional Championship. Senior Dale Johnson commands an experienced squad featuring juniors Quinn Wasko, Matt Saponara and Brian Mitchell. Last year, the Lions qualified for nationals, though an at-large bid. Johnson looks to crack the top 15 at the 8000-meter course in regionals. Meanwhile, Wasko
will attempt to improve from his 43rd place finish along with Saponaro. Junior Natalie Cooper will lead the Lady Lions this season. Following an impressive season, Cooper looks to defend her NJAC Individual title and higher at the MidAtlantic Regional Championship. Cooper previously finished 47th at the 6000-meter course at the 2016 NCAA Division III Women’s Cross Country Championship. “After an outstanding season, Cooper is going to focus on staying healthy,” coach Justin Lindsey said. “We want her to peak at nationals and go beyond her goals.” The Lady Lions strive to place first at the NJAC Championship, after finishing second last season.
Juniors Emma Bean, Madeleine Tattory, Abigail Faith and Erin Holzbaur will focus on finishing higher in regionals in order for the team to reach to nationals. Last season, Tattory claimed the second highest position for the Lions, finishing in 52nd place at the 6000-meter race. “Last year we finished behind Stockton University at NJACs,” Lindsey said. “Our goal this year is for the women’s team to place first at NJACs and have a team qualify for nationals.” The Lions will first compete in the Houghton Short Course Twilight Invitational on Friday, Sept. 1. The team will then race in the Blue/Gold Invitational at Rosedale Park in Pennington, New Jersey, on Saturday, Sept. 2.
Signal
Sports
Football rares to get rolling in upcoming season lineman Erik Graham. The offense has seniors at key positions like quarterback Trevor Osler, tight end Chase Vena and wide receiver Gabriel Rios. Vena and Rios will be primary targets while the rushing attack will be lead by senior running backs Chad Scott and Khani Glover. Casey Goff, a 14-year veteran coach for college football, is the Lions’ new head coach. Last year, he led Defiance College to Photo courtesy of Sports Information Desk a 5-5 record. He joined the ColGoff starts his tenure at the College. lege in late July. By Maximillian C. Burgos even though they beat two of the As head coach he hopes to Sports Editor teams last year that are project- turn the Lions’ fortunes around ed to be ranked above them — and get back to our winning With a new coach and some William Paterson and Southern traditions. “The first steps are key veterans, the College’s foot- Virginia University. to get the team on our page and ball team is looking to bounce The Lions also have a good secure the 2017 staff,” Goff told back from a tough 2016 season. number of veterans coming The Signal. “I’m eager to reach Last season, the Lions went back to play on both sides of the out to everyone and let them 2-8 and were outscored 291-100 ball. On defense All-Confer- know about me and my expecin their 10 games. The Lions did ence honorable mention senior tations and obviously answer end the year on a positive note, defensive end Shane Kelly is any questions they have to make winning two of the last three returning along with lineback- this process as seamless as posgames, which included a 42-28 ers Troy Domenick and Kevin sible. I’m also eager to get rollwin over William Paterson Uni- Hennelly. Other returning vet- ing with (assistant coach Rocky versity during Homecoming. erans are juniors Max Busca Hager) and make sure that we This year the Lions will play and Jesse Streb. Kelly will do everything in our power to six games at home and are pro- also be joined on the defensive prep this team to win ball games jected to be 10th in the NJAC, line with sophomore defensive this fall.”
The NJAC is skeptical of the Lion’s ability to turn things around this season, but with last season behind them and under a new regime, the Lions can look to the future with cautious optimism. With a stacked schedule with three ranked teams early on, the Lions need to keep games close to stay competitive. The season kicks off on Sept. 1 at 7 p.m. at home for the Lions.
Then they travel to ranked Frostburg State University on Sept. 9. The game is scheduled for a 1 p.m. start. The Lions’ homecoming game will be on Oct. 21 at 2 p.m. at home and their Senior Day is Nov. 11 at noon, also at home. The playoffs may be a challenge for the Lions, but a change of regime may be the refresher that the football team needs.
Photo courtesy of Sports Information Desk
Vena returns for his senior season.
Lions field hockey aims for another dominant year
Left: Andrews looks to build on her 12 goals in 2016. Right: Sophmore Siney Padilla on the offensive attack. By Maximillian C. Burgos Sports Editor
The women’s field hockey team is looking for another dominant year in the New Jersey Athletic Conference. The team enters this season on a 20-game regular season conference winning streak. The lady lions may be young this year, but they still count on key returning defensive players. Under legendary coaching of Sharon Pfluger, the College’s women’s field hockey team has won the NJAC 22
Lions Lineup August 30, 2017
I n s i d e
times in 28 seasons since its conception in 1985. Pfluger has led the team to a historic record of 198-16-1 in the NJAC. In her 31 years of coaching field hockey at the College, her overall record is 564-86-5. The team hopes to repeat as NJAC champions. The Lions top preseason NJAC polls, but they will need freshmen to step into important roles as they try to replace Alumnae Jaclyn Douglas (’17) and Lexi Smith (’17), both former All-Americans. The team still has plenty of weapons like senior Elizabeth Morrison and
Women’s Soccer page 14
Photos courtesy of Sports Information Desk
sophomore Cayla Andrews, both of whom scored 12 goals last year, contributing greatly to the offensive performance of the team. On defense, seniors Jackie Schwartz and Christina Fabiano both look to build off last year’s progress. Schwartz started in 15 of the last 19 games last season. Fabiano started in 12 of the last 12 games posting a .718 save percentage, four shutouts and only allowed 0.77 goals per game. The new-look Lions begin the season on Saturday, Sept. 2, against the Catholic
Men’s Soccer page 14
University of American in Washington D.C. After three road games, the team opens up at home against Drew University on Sept. 12 at 7:30 p.m. — the first of five straight matches at Lions Stadium, where the team was undefeated last season. Their toughest test should come from defending national champions Messiah College at home on Sept. 16 at 6 p.m. Messiah was one of three teams to beat the Lions during last year’s regular season, but the Lions now have a chance to strike back on their home turf.
Cheap Seats page 15
Cross Country page 15