10-22-2010

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Editorial: Student lobbying paid off

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The Gatepost

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gatepost@framingham.edu

Framingham State College’s Independent Student Newspaper Since 1932

Significant funding cuts expected should Question 3 pass

By Rakel Hjaltadóttir News Editor Framingham State students and faculty are worried about the impact a sales tax cut initiative will have on the school’s funds.

Question 3, which will appear on the ballot on Nov. 2, is a measure to lower the Massachusetts sales tax from 6.25 to 3 percent.

The initiative is sponsored by the Alliance to Roll Back Taxes, led by Carla Howell. Howell ran for governor in 2002 for the Libertarian party.

According to The Boston Globe, of the 45 U.S. states with a sales tax, Massachusetts can be found in the middle, and 23 states have a lower tax rate.

There is no tax on food, clothing up to $175 or consumer services, which many states have.

If Question 3 passes and the sales tax is lowered to 3 percent, Massachusetts will have the second lowest tax rate of all the states which have a sales tax.

During a visit to campus last week, Lt. Gov. Timothy Murray said he is against the measure. “I think it’s incredibly important that everybody be cleareyed what the impact of it will be - we’re talking a couple billion dollars in lost revenue.”

According to a report created by the Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation (MTF) titled “Question 3: Heading over the Cliff,” the state is already facing a $2 billion shortfall, which will increase to $4.5 billion if Question 3 is approved.

The MTF is an independent, non-partisan research organization created in 1932. The focus of the foundation is how the state raises and spends its money.

According to the President of the MTF, Michael Widmer, the foundation is “neither pro-tax nor antitax.”

He said this proposal comes at the worst possible time because the state faces a large deficit in FY12 because federal stimulus money, which has supplemented the budget during the last two years, will have run out.

Widmer added, “What we’ll see is just dramatic cuts in all state programs including aid to cities and towns and public higher education,” if the question passes.

“It’s massive. This is not a little surgery. It would change the face of state and local government as we know it, as we’ve known it for decades,” he said.

Murray added, “It’s that revenue that pays for the

Students enjoy this month’s Bingo in the Forum. services we all benefit from in some shape, manner or form. The governor and I think a more reasonable approach is to go back to 5 percent.”

He said the initiative will impact everything in the budget, such as higher education, K-12 education, local aid and programs for veterans, seniors and the developmentally disabled.

According to Murray, state colleges and universities are struggling already to maintain programs and keep tuition and fees reasonable, and with a further reduction in state aid, the institutions will increasingly have to rely on higher tuition and fees to pay for the services they provide.

“We support our state colleges and universities and community colleges because they’re affordable and they provide a quality education. If they’re having to rely primarily on tuition and fees more than they already do now, it’s just going to make the cost of an education less affordable,“ Murray said.

Widmer said, for example, “[At] Framingham State College, you would see a huge cut on top of the cuts they’ve already seen over the last three years.” In addition, he predicts course offerings and faculty time will be reduced.

In an unscientific survey of 400 students conducted by The Gatepost between Oct. 6 - 15, 42 percent of survey takers responded that they did not support lowering the state sales tax to 6.25 percent, while 37 did.

Two-hundred and sixty-five survey respondents, or 66 percent, did not know what impact the cut would have on public institutions.

[Editor’s note: The Gatepost will be running an article based on the survey results in next week’s issue.]

Widmer said he thinks there

Make sure to check the new and improved website! www.thegatepost.com

-Continued on page 3

Kelsey Loverude/The Gatepost

Phase 2 of library renovations nearing completion

By Pam Barberio Editorial Staff

Senior Vice President of Administration, Finance and Information Technology Dr. Dale Hamel anticipates that renovations to the Whittemore Library are expected to be completed soon.

Requests from library staff have gone back several years now for “a desire to kind of enhance the facility - to have it be more conducive to a kind of learning resource center as opposed to a traditional library,” Hamel said. No renovations have been undertaken in the library since it was built in 1969.

The phase 2 renovations, which are predominantly on the righthand side upon entering the library, will include a new lounge area, as well as new HVAC systems, lighting and new ceilings.

The lounge area will supply coffee from a local provider which has yet to be determined. Hamel said Dunkin’ Donuts was asked to provide the coffee in the lounge, but declined the college’s offer.

The second of six phases of reconstruction began over this past summer. However, work began later than originally planned.

Hamel said, “There’s some delay in the lighting fixtures, so it [the completion date] really kind of depends on when those come in, hopefully late October.

“We’re trying to limit the impact on group and individual study work as well as classes [by] limiting the number of individuals that are working at a time and actually doing a lot of the work overnight as well,” he said.

Secondly, the funding for this project “was only approved as a part of the FY 2011 General Appropriations Act, so we didn’t receive the money until July,” Hamel said. The timeline of the project extended into the school year.

-Continued on page 6

News

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Gatepost Interview

Police Logs Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Dr. Audrey Kali

02:57 Inebriate - Corinne Hall Towers. One

male placed in protective custody.

Communication Arts

By Kerrin Murray Staff Writer

08:46 Undesirable - Dwight Hall. Report of

male party attempting to buy textbooks.

GP: What is your educational background?

18:49 Undesirable - Maple Street Athletic

Fields. Report of unauthorized group

using the field.

Kali: I have a bachelor of arts degree from Chatham College in Pittsburgh with a major in communication and a minor in writing. I have a Ph.D. in rhetoric and communication from the University of Pittsburgh with a concentration in classical Greek rhetoric.

Thursday, October 21, 2010

GP: What was your

14:10 MVA (Hit & Run - Campus) - Union best experience in

Avenue Parking Lot. Report of minor hit college?

and run - no injuries.

Monday 10/25 Showers High 68° / Low 54° Precip: 40%

Tuesday 10/26 Showers High 66° / Low 53° Precip: 40%

Wednesday 10/27 Partly Cloudy High 66° / Low 48° Precip: 10%

Thursday 10/28

Showers High 61° / Low 42° Precip: 60%

Lauren Byrnes Editor-in-Chief Amy Koski Associate Editor Lindsay Chase News Editor Rakel Hjaltadóttir News Editor Julie Ann Giebler Assistant News Editor Tom O’Brien Arts & Features Editor Spencer Buell Interim Arts & Features Editor

Krysta Davis Assistant Arts & Features Editor

Nenia Corcoran Sports Editor Josh Primak Sports Editor Matt Cook Assistant Sports Editor Ryan Creed Assistant Sports Editor Chris Kopacko Opinion Editor

from www.weather.com

Partly Cloudy High 63° / Low 50° Precip: 10%

Friday 10/29

October 22, 2010

students and exploring different ideas with them, and helping students become more critical thinkers and more creative thinkers is one of the most favorite parts of my job.

GP: Are you currently working on any projects?

Kali: Yes, I am. I am working on a project with two components and it’s actually on the controversy on slaughtering animals - whether or not the methods of slaughter are humane or not and I’m looking at different definitions of what constitutes humane.

Kali: My best experience in college was GP: Do you have any the opportunity to do advice for students? a senior thesis, which Kali: I would say, it included writing a pasounds counter-producper. It was a research tive, but do not look for project about how to jobs right away and it is investigate or interimportant to just explore rogate whether or not and open your mind. Folchildren who play low your heart, because with violent toys bethe job comes if you folcome violent. I looked low what you are interat particularly boys ested in. playing with war toys.

I also did a documenGP: What are your hobtary on children who bies? play with toys and different perspectives Kali: I have a greyhound. from educators and His name is Vico. He psychologists and is actually named after got their opinions on an Italian philosopher, whether or not they Giambattista Vico, and Drake McCabe/The Gatepost he is my biggest hobby think that children will be more violent as because he is very high Dr. Audrey Kali adults. What I did find maintenance. I also like to was that playing with read a lot. Another hobby war toys can indoctrinate them to certain political I really like is playing the violin. I broke my wrist perspectives and kind of agree with war as a way last year and have not been able to play for a while, of resolving national conflicts, but it really doesn’t but I think I am going to start playing really soon. make them personally more violent.

But I learned how to play the violin when I turned 50, so that should be an inspiration to anyone!

GP: Please give a brief history of your resume.

GP: What is your favorite thing about FramingKali: My resume, other than the education, is my ham State College? first teaching job, which was at the University of Minnesota in Duluth. Then I came to Massachusetts Kali: I have seen a lot of sincerity [here]. People about eight years ago and started teaching here. work really hard and they seem to really care about each other and each other’s success.

GP: What’s your favorite part of your job?

Kali: My favorite part of my job is working with

EDITORIAL BOARD Josh Kruger Photo Editor Kelsey Loverude Photo Editor Drake McCabe Photo Editor Pam Barberio Business Editor Jen Perrin Online Editor Samantha Hamel Columnist Abner Cavalcanti Staff Designer Zack Comeau Staff Writer Brian Dagley Staff Writer Joe Kourieh Staff Writer Samantha Lockard Staff Writer Kerrin Murray Staff Writer Monique Thomas Staff Writer Carey Scouler Staff Writer Danielle Vecchione Staff Photographer

Betty Brault Administrative Assistant Desmond McCarthy Advisor

Visit our new website! www.thegatepost.com 100 State Street, College Center Room 410 Framingham, MA 01701-9101 Phone: (508) 626-4605 Fax: (508) 626-4097 www.thegatepost.com gatepost@framingham.edu

October 22, 2010

News

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Spilka: “have to make cuts” to balance budget -Continued from page 1

would be a “huge political push-back” if the state started taxing in areas it didn’t previously, such as food, clothing and consumer services.

“It’s going to be difficult for the legislature to raise taxes of any sort if this passes. … I don’t believe they will reverse the will of the voters or broaden the base of the sales tax,” he said.

He added there would be significant “political turmoil” if the question passes, and he foresees a lot of resistance to different methods for raising revenue.

He said the savings for people “who would be tempted to support” the question may not materialize because property taxes will most likely go up and the services they depend on will be compromised. “Anything they ‘save’ they may actually find will cost more out of the other pocket.”

Even with higher property taxes, Widmer is not optimistic about the state making up the revenue lost. “Maybe some additional revenue will be raised, but nothing to equal the $2.5 billion.”

Widmer predicts many layoffs if Question 3 is passed teachers, police and firefighters among the affected. This “will have consequences for those individuals as well as economic recovery.”

State senator Karen Spilka said students at Framingham State would notice a cut to state support starting Jan. 1, 2011. “We’d have to balance the budget, so we’d have to make cuts,” she said.

Spilka added that a third of state support would be cut.

“You could possibly lose professors, lose some of the programs. I think the ripple effect would really change the quality of life that we have in Massachusetts.

“It would force layoffs of state employees, layoffs of municipal employees, teachers, firefighters, police, at a time when we are trying to keep people at work. … We want to increase our employment rate, not increase our unemployment rate,” she said. “People need to be aware of the dramatic and devastating impact, I think, and all of the governor candidates agree that this is not a good idea.”

According to FSC President Timothy Flanagan, the campus receives about $20 million a year from the state from appropriated tax dollars, out of an operating budget of around $45 million.

The operating budget comes from three

Drake McCabe/The Gatepost

Dr. Robert Donohue

sources - $20 million from state taxpayer support, $20-25 million from tuition and fees from students, and revenue from residential fees.

If Question 3 passes, the one source most affected would be the $20 million state appropriation.

Flanagan said, “If the state cuts the appropriation to the campuses by some amount … cutting expenses would be the first thing we’d look at.” These expenses include ongoing and upcoming projects, as well as eliminating jobs to absorb the impact.

He said the first thing many colleges do when trying to make up revenue is evaluate how much student fees would have to be raised. “At this point, it’s impossible to estimate,” Flanagan said.

According to Flanagan, the Board of Trustees always looks at other possible cuts before deciding to raise student fees.

Another strategy, Flanagan said, is trying to increase college growth to offset the impact. “If the number of stu-

dents we admit goes up … that could actually help us offset, somewhat, the impact of budget cuts.”

He said it would be hard to imagine that growth alone would alleviate the problem, because the more students the college has, the more faculty are needed, as well as housing, labs and other educational facilities.

Scholarships and financial aid is another area in which cuts would have to be made, according to Flanagan.

Even students without scholarships or financial aid are getting a subsidy, whether they realize it or not, he said. “If we didn’t get that $20 million a year from the commonwealth, then that $15,000 [to attend and reside at FSC] a year

would be $25,000.”

He added that if the college did not get $20 million from the state every year, the cost difference between a public higher education institution such as Framingham

“[At] Framingham State College, you would see a huge cut on top of the cuts they’ve already seen over the last three years.”

- Massachusetts Taxpayer Foundation President Michael Widmer

State, and a private college would not be as significant.

“The bottom line is it’s a very serious public policy decision the voters have to make when they go to the polls. … If there’s a level of services that we get in exchange for those taxes, what are we prepared to give up?” Flanagan asked.

A reason, he said, people should be supportive of the current tax rate, which helps fund public higher education, is that many college graduates stay in Massachusetts, pay taxes in Massachusetts, and it benefits everyone “to have an educated citizenry.”

Flanagan said, “What’s happened over the last 25 years is that if you ask people today, ‘What’s the principal benefit of a college education?’ and ‘Why should we support

“Massachusetts is already an incredibly expensive place to get a degree from a

public higher ed institution. If Question 3 passes, it’s just going to get that much worse.”

- Dr. Robert Donohue public higher education?’ what [people] now say is that ‘If you get a college degree, you personally will make more money over your lifetime.’

“So the benefit has been transferred from a benefit that affects all of us to a benefit that’s primarily personal to you as a college graduate. … The logical leap from that is that if the benefit is primarily financial and if it adheres primarily to the college graduate, then the college graduate should pay for it.”

According to Flanagan, the college has not done a good enough job of educating the public on the value of an FSC education and the economic impact graduates have on the state.

-Continued on page 4

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October 22, 2010

Donohue: vote for your own self-interest -Continued from page 3

“Eighty to 85 percent of university graduates in Massachusetts stay in Massachusetts. [They] contribute to not only the economy, but also the social well-being of the state. … Instead of seeing it as an expense, we need to be thinking about it as an investment in the future of the commonwealth,” he said.

Dr. Robert Donohue, psychology professor and president of the Framingham State College Professional Association (faculty union), said, “It’s really discouraging that we keep battling these tax initiatives. I think it’s really important for students to realize what the impact of this would be on [them].”

He said if Question 3 passes, the cost is only going to go up for students. “Massachusetts is already an incredibly expensive place to get a degree from a public higher ed institution. If Question 3 passes, it’s just going to get that much worse.”

According to Donohue, the people who are supporting the question are the people who are going to “get hit the worst,” and given the population at FSC, which is “typically not the most affluent,” the result would be “devastating.

“A lot of the people who are supporting this policy don’t realize that it’ll end up costing them far more in what they have to pay out of pocket than what they’re paying in state sales taxes,” Donohue added.

Mike Long, president of SGA, said, “If people were doing this the smart way, then they would know that the future is in the younger generations and taking money away from them is really hurting.”

Long added that Framingham State has always prided itself on being the most affordable state college, and “by raising the fees, it could lose that status.”

Maxwell Morrongiello, student trustee, said he’s worried about the impact Question 3 would have, and the fact that the college does not seem to have a plan in place to deal with the loss of revenue.

“The Board of Trustees is going to have to look in two

places - they could either raise revenues or cut services,” own school. I would definitely vote no, to keep it where he said. it is.”

Morrongiello said he brought the issue up to SGA to Lan Kha, a sophomore art major, said she was considsee if the group would be willing to support it “one way ering secondary education as a major, but now isn’t sure or the other. because of how hard it might be for teachers to get jobs, “What I got from the meeting, the sentiment was ‘OK, especially if the question passes. “It kind of makes me we’ll put out information about what it is in general and have to rethink my goals and what I’m going to do.” then take a stance as it gets closer,’” he said.

Patrick Hart, a senior English major and supporter of He added that he Question 3, said, hopes to get a group “Not only would together of students, voting yes create faculty, staff and alumover 30,000 jobs ni who are interested in the private secin supporting public tor, it would also higher education. He return nearly $700 said he wants to try to per year to each tax“fight for it and try to payer, while forcing let people know that the government to this is a big issue. It’s face fiscal accountabout social justice.” ability.”

Nicole Shelley, a Jack Mill, a sophomore business sophomore politiand finance major, cal science major, said she has discussed said, “I support this the issue in one of her measure, although I classes. “I’m opposed believe 3 percent is to it because it’s going too low, because for to cost the school so years we had a sales much.” tax of 5 percent and Corey Saunders, we had a rainy day a senior communicafund. When the tax tion arts major, said, was increased to “While I don’t exactly 6.25 percent, the enjoy paying [a 6.25 surplus went to percent sales tax], you New Hampshire. I have to think of where feel as though we the sales tax goes. It should pass the Drake McCabe/The Gatepost measure and then goes to state-funded Student Trustee Maxwell Morrongiello programs such as our let the legislature increase the tax to 5 percent, where it had been when we had the surplus.”

Justin Varteresian, a sophomore political science major, said, “I recognize that bringing the sales tax down to 3 percent would be an irresponsible thing to do, but I am voting for the measure to send a message to Beacon Hill that levying taxes on the citizens of the commonwealth is not the solution to the budget deficit.”

Donohue encourages students to think about how this will affect them. “How much would you be saving in sales tax expenditures, versus how much is it going to cost you if it takes you another year to graduate because we don’t have the classes you need?”

He added that students seem disconnected as to how this would impact them. “Register to vote, and vote for your own self interest. Vote against this bill.”

Morrongiello said it’s important for everyone to vote, especially in local elections. “None of this is going to happen if people get out and vote. … Depending on what the voters decide, we might not face this.”

Check out the new, cool blogs posted by Gatepost editors! www.thegatepost.com Featuring: Sex, Hugs and Love & Soul Relationships, Sex and General Romance Commentary Pop Goes the Culture Critiques and Comments on Pop Culture Craziness Creed’s Corner Hot Topics in Sports Each blog is updated regularly, so make sure to check back often!

News

October 22, 2010

5

SGA realigns budgets for Veterans Association, Fashion Club, BSU

By Lindsay Chase News Editor

At Tuesday night’s meeting, SGA senators discussed and realigned budgets for FSU’s Veterans Association, the Fashion Club and the Black Student Union (BSU). SGA senators also viewed a presentation by the Veterans Association.

Richard Poor, treasurer of the Veterans Association and SGA senator, presented a PowerPoint slideshow to SGA about the national conference the club attended at the beginning of October.

SGA President Mike Long explained that clubs have three weeks from their event or conference date to give a presentation to prove that SGA was “right” in allocating funds for such events.

Poor said he, two other officers from the Veterans Association and their advisor attended the Student Veterans of America (SVA) conference at Georgetown University.

He said the SVA is a non-profit organization that was started up in 2008 by student veterans. There are three full-time employees “making part-time wages,” according to Poor, and hundreds of volunteers.

The purpose of SVA is to advocate on behalf of student veterans nationwide. There are 317 member chapters - clubs like FSU’s Veterans Association - across the country and 83 chapters from 33 states were represented at this year’s conference.

“We are the only official SVA chapter in Massachusetts,” Poor said. “However, UMass Lowell and Northeastern University were both represented - they are in the process of becoming SVA chapters right now.”

The three major objectives of the conference, according to Poor, were to hold national officer elections for the organization, to allow for networking with other chapters and for outreach and advocacy workshops.

On Friday, Oct. 1, the attendees of the conference produced over 2,000 care packages for disadvantaged youth in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. On Saturday, Oct. 2, the campaign for national officers began. There were also multiple “breakout” sessions held about marketing and media, veteran benefits, a career expo and employer relations. There was also a breakout session about how to help wounded warriors transition into college.

“We learned how we can better transition them into the college environment,” Poor said.

An awards banquet was also held that night with keynote speaker Secretary of SVA Eric Shinseki, a retired army general.

On Sunday, Oct. 3, the National Officer Election results were announced. Poor was appointed the Northeast Region Director - this includes all the New England states plus New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Delaware. That day, there was another breakout session concerning mental disabilities with veteran students. They also visited D.C. memorials and the Arlington National Cemetery.

Poor was expecting to show SGA a slideshow of pictures from the trip but experienced technical difficulties, so the slideshow will be presented at next week’s SGA meeting.

SGA realigned the Veterans Association budget into the appropriate lines so their budgeted money could be spent differently than it had been originally allocated. The reason for the realignment was so the Veterans Association could use their money to have 100 military coins made for Framingham State. Poor said the first coin would be given to President Timothy Flanagan and most of the rest would be used as promotional items.

FSC’s Fashion Club’s realignment request was approved by SGA. Their money - specifically $1,950 - will go toward their fashion week events (Nov. 1-5), including fashion shows and guest speakers. They plan to hold a drag show and another show will display clothing made of trash.

The majority of Tuesday’s meeting was spent debating BSU’s realignment request. If approved, $600 would go toward tickets and a bus for a trip to Boston to see comedian Kevin Hart on Nov. 6. The trip would be open to all students.

Multiple SGA senators brought up the issue that BSU submitted an “unacceptable” realignment request. Rather than using the proper form that is available for all clubs located in the SGA office - BSU submitted a handwritten request. Regardless, this one was passed through for all of SGA to approve.

“I feel like we’ve done wrong - were wrong in taking it and we’ve already messed up, so I feel like we have to follow through now and next time set forth that this is not right, we can’t allow it to happen,” she said.

Hannah Bruce, vice president of SGA, reiterated Cormio’s point and said, “In the future, if it happens again, then we definitely, absolutely should turn them away, but they came to fincom and there was nothing said about it.

We should have turned them away right from the start instead of them going through the process.”

Poor added, “I do agree with what Hannah said and what Julie said that it is poor - I’m not going to say poor leadership, but poor something on the part of fincom and the e-board to pass this through. However, the senate is a different body and there are 40odd people in this room who have never seen this document before. ...

It should be the senate who decides it.”

Student Trustee Maxwell Morrongiello pointed out that, “Ultimately, the senate has the entire say” and should not be bound by the actions of any particular committee.

Long added, “I don’t want anyone falling into the trap that what goes through a committee has to go through e-board and has to go Danielle Vecchione/The Gatepost through senate. There are 20-odd people here that have never seen this SGA members at this week’s meeting. piece of paper before and whatever happened in fincom and e-board Many members of SGA were surprised and dismayed should not affect the way you think. ... Just because it was at this and thought the request should not have been ap- voted upon and approved in two other committees does proved in the first place. However, the first motion made not mean it has to go through here. It doesn’t mean it has was to accept the request, instead of a motion to have BSU to be turned down, either.” submit a new form. During the first debate, several SGA Bruce made the motion to accept BSU’s realignment senators continued to complain about the form’s appear- request and more debate ensued. ance.

Poor said, “Just to harp on it one more time ... just bePoor said, “I believe that this is absolutely unaccept- cause the fincom voted and just because the e-board votable and should be tabled until it can be done properly and ed, I did not cast a vote and neither did the majority of the then brought back to the fincom [SGA’s financial commit- senators on this body. And so, I personally believe that it tee], back to the e-board and back to the senate.” should not be put through.”

Julie Cormio, SGA senator-at-large, said, “We already Daron Carlson, SGA senator, reminded other senators gave in and took it - it’s too late. And they went to fincom that the motion made by Bruce was to accept the realignand nobody said anything to them about how unaccept- ment request, not the paperwork itself. able this is, so they had no idea. They should have already -Continued on page 7 been told ‘no’ and it’s too late now.

Major/Minor Fair

Tuesday, October 26, 2010 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. (drop in any time) College Center Forum Come and learn about the many majors and minors offered at Framingham State University. What should you major in and why? What’s a minor?

• Professors and advisors will be available to answer your questions • What are you going to do with a major in....Business? Communication Arts? History? Career Services and Employer Relations will share ideas • Considering studying abroad? The Office of International Education will be available to answer your questions Enter to win a $25.00 gift certificate to the bookstore (courtesy of CASA)

News

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October 22, 2010

Hamel: remaining funds will go t o w a r d n e x t s u m m e r ’s p r o j e c t s -Continued from page 1

Through the Federal Stimulus America Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), $538,000 was budgeted for this phase of the library project, but “the actual anticipated cost was $469,000, so the remaining funds will move forward to next summer’s projects,” Hamel said.

Bonnie Mitchell, director of the library, said in online surveys the library staff has conducted over the past several years, students indicated “that things were looking pretty tired and old and … needed some work.”

Mitchell is hoping that by mid-semester, “there will be a similar look and feel to the entrance hallway as there is to the circulation area. In other words, the same color scheme, carpeting, lighting, a new ceiling, a new floor,” she said.

The library entrance will be an exhibit area that also doubles as a study area with some soft seating.

The first phase of the renovations began during the summer of 2009 and was completed during the fall 2009 semester.

The “first phase of construction cost approximately $350,000, with the majority of the funding coming from the federal stimulus money the school received,” Hamel said in an article in the Sept. 18, 2009 issue of The Gatepost.

This first phase primarily entailed renovations to the circulation area of the library because the front desk did not comply with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regulations. “The old desk did not allow for wheelchair access, and now it does,” Mitchell said in the article.

Other library components which were updated included new furniture, painting and the installing of more electrical outlets.

Mitchell said because the library is “a multi-purpose building, we have to work with what we have regarding what goes on in this building and being able to accommodate quiet studying.”

She does not anticipate a difference in the way the library will be operated during construction. Glass doors were installed for the reference room so those doors can be shut to keep noise out.

Tables and chairs that are easily movable have been installed in the index room, creating both more group and individual study space.

“There’s areas throughout the stacks that are also quiet study spaces and we’re hoping that there will be improved lighting … so people are more inclined to use those quiet spaces day and night,” Mitchell said.

Senior Jacqui Fitzgibbons is excited to see the finished outcome. “I think more studying areas would be awe-

some! We [currently] have a lot of uncomfortable chairs and even fewer tables.”

Senior Amy Levis agreed. “We need more study areas downstairs, more comfy seating and more open study areas.”

One student, senior Ryan Iarussi, thinks the federal stimulus money could have been put to better use. He said he would like to see a parking garage built for commuter students. “I don’t see how you can use a library if you can’t find a space,” he said.

College administrators don’t anticipate library renovations to be completed until the summer of 2014. However, there is not yet a finalized plan of what each summer’s project will include.

“As we begin to look at the building floor by floor, there are areas that need to be updated,” Mitchell said, including improved electricity and heating, flooring and ceilings and the archives room. “We want to make sure the archival material is protected and housed properly, but also, we want to make sure that there’s a way to show them off because we have some historical treasures,” she said.

“We’re trying to make the space more useful and more comfortable and more inviting, and at the same time, allow for flexibility,” said Mitchell.

State support for FSC cut 13 percent

By Drake McCabe Editorial Staff

Residence Life fees increased by 6.6 percent, or $350.

“From a financial perspective, this is a healthy instiBoard, or dining, increased by 3 percent, or $80. These tution. From a faculty and staff perspective, it’s a very Framingham State College’s state funding was cut by begin to address the cost of the newly completed resi- strong institution, and that’s probably the most important dence hall renovation programs. asset of any institution. I think we have the experience to 13 percent this fiscal year.

This leaves students with an overall increase of $900, respond if necessary to whatever the changing economic An additional $22,305,485 in Federal Stimulus and situation may present us.”

Massachusetts State College Building Authority (MSC- or 6.5 percent.

The fee increases bring the 2010-11 cost to $15,665 for Sophomore visual communications major Olivia RearBA) funding, as well as $20.5 million in financial aid cover the cost of one-time capital projects and bring the tuition, fees, room and board - up $2,639 from 07-08 tu- don said,“The fee increases make sense with the caf renoition, fees, room and board (full-time undergrad, in-state vations and such. If I’m going to be paying more money, total budget to $121,506,816 in expenditures.

I want to see something happen with it.”

According to Dr. Dale Hamel, senior vice president with 19-flex meal plan).

Hamel noted that this is still $850 below the average Kevin Winroth, a senior graphic art and design maof administration, finance and information technology, non-specialty state college tu- jor, said, “We’re still the cheapest state school. I think we “We’ve had experience having ition in Massachusetts. [students] can afford to give a little more money.” to respond to fiscal restraint and “The current five-year plan Junior Brianna Crowley, said, “I think they should I think we’ve been able to protect would assume a 7 percent in- spend the extra fee money on fixing the parking problem.” the academic enterprises in those crease over next year, but it Senior English major Joel Mongeon said, “I am conresponses. I hope we don’t have depends on state support,” cerned about the school’s budget because of the possibilto do it again in the near future.” said Hamel. ity of the sales tax being lowered. The state may not give The state of Massachusetts This year’s round of fed- enough aid to its educational facilities.” funds approximately 27 percent eral stimulus money provided Student Trustee Maxwell Morrongiello said, “The colof the school’s budget. After the funding for one-time projects lege has made great headway in looking for other forms legislature’s conference commiton campus. of revenue. Last year, we hired Jonathan Lee to help us tee convened, the state appropriaAccording to Hamel, the apply for grants from private donors and state and federal tions for FY 2011 were reconciled first round of $4.4 million government. In less than a year, he raised over $400,000. at $21.3 million in conference funded $2.1 million worth of “Over the last several years,” Morrongiello added, committee. personnel costs, repaid out- “administrative positions have been either consolidated While total governmenstanding loans, started the li- or eliminated. We are running a very tight ship, and Presital operations support for FSC brary renovations and contrib- dent Flanagan and his team have done a great job of makdecreased by 13 percent from uted to student financial aid. ing the campus more cost effective.

FY10-11, Hamel estimated that The current round helped “Ultimately, the state has an obligation to make sure the impact on FSC was around to fund the college center and our schools are affordable, but the college has no control 9 percent. This is because of a library renovations along with over how much they receive from the state,” said Mor$23.24 million aggregate approan anticipated replacement of rongiello. priation from FY10.

Drake McCabe/The Gatepost the Hemenway Hall air conSGA President Michael Long said, “Question 3 is a FSC had budgeted at $21.1 ditioner. According to Hamel, huge thing we’re concerned about.

Dr. Dale Hamel million in state support for this “It is in design and will go out “I think less spending is better than more fees. I think fiscal year, resulting in a $200,000 to bid early in the next calendar - hopefully by next May.” the college needs to find ways to cut back. If there are surplus.

The budget also accounts for bond-based projects. The other things the college could improve in cost-effective Massachuetts general laws allow the state government to reduce its allocated funds in a process called 9C reduc- new science building will be funded by a general obliga- ways, that would be better,” he said.

However, Morrongiello said,“I think given the funding tions. Hamel noted that state implementation of those re- tion bond, issued by the commonwealth and backed by ductions, which would cut state funding halfway through the state’s general fund revenue. The project is currently constraints by the state, the least bad option was to raise authorized for $51 million in state spending, said Hamel. fees.” the fiscal year, is “very much a possibility.”

The new residence hall is funded by a revenue bond Massachusetts tax revenues were up in June and July, down in August and up in September. It has not yet been with interest that will be paid determined whether revenue for October will reach the off over a period of time. FedFSC Revenue FY 2011 eral stimulus support was utistate’s $1.132 billion benchmark.

Question 3, which will appear on the November ballot, lized through subsidized Build Total State Funding

$28,092,647 36% would roll back the state sales tax from 6.25 to 3 percent. America Bonds to fund the new College Operations Fees $21,492,575 27% If passed, it would go into effect on Jan. 1, 2011 and bring residence hall. $9,007,850 12% “We financed through that Residence Life down state revenue for the new fiscal year.

State funding accounts for approximately $3,600 per bond and received an interest Continuing Education $6,608,600 8% student (including DGCE students). State budget 9C re- rate of 3.65 percent, which is Auxillary $6,466,065 8% ductions could significantly impact the school’s operating much below market. It allowed $6,761,250 9% budget, along with the public higher education system as us to go from a 30-year bond to Other 25-year bond and lower fees by FSC Revenue Totals a whole. $78,428,987 100% One of the areas in which the college has compensated $125 over the year and still pay for loss is fees. Approved as part of the budget is an 8 per- off the debt over 25 years,” said Note: This does not account for one-time expenses and bonds Hamel. cent, $525 increase in a “college operations fee.”

such as the new residence hall and science building.

October 22, 2010

News

7

SGA announces Administrators’ Forum concerned about the SGA senator Keyona Bell requested a friendly amend- limited availability of ment to Bruce - because she made the motion - to table convenience goods this issue until next week’s meeting and for BSU to sub- - such as toothpaste, mit proper paperwork to fincom by 4 p.m. on Friday. floss, Tylenol - on campus. Such goods Bruce denied this friendly amendment.

SGA senator Kendra Dale said, “I know Hannah’s are available in the working very hard to make the relationship between SGA bookstore, but it is and the clubs better. We don’t want to be this bad guy that open for very few hours and “lots of they’re scared of.

“People should want to come to us and be able to work students go to CVS with us. We don’t want to be so, like, ‘You do this, or it’s during the nighttime over!’ It’s ridiculous! I mean, we’re all students. ... Let’s and it’s not very safe for them to do that, just let it go.”

A motion to end debate was made and a vote was held so we’re just looking to decide if the realignment request would be approved. to see if that’s an opTwenty approved and nine opposed allocating appropri- tion,” said Morrongiate funds into appropriate lines. The realignment request ello.

The last issue was approved.

Morrongiello adLong said, “They have the money.” dressed was the conMorrongiello also gave his weekly report to SGA and Drake McCabe/The Gatepost explained what was discussed in this week’s Legislative cern about the capital process.

SGA President Mike Long Action Committee (LAC) meeting. Dining services came planning Whenever a new up a lot in the LAC meeting, according to Morrongiello, then because they screwed it up and had to send it back to so he will be referring the issues to the Dining Commit- building has been built or renovated on campus, Morrongiello said he feels be built again,” he said. “We will be unveiling, hopefully, tee. the memorial by then, followed by some speeches, preHe said, “Some people thought the selection would be “it hasn’t been planned as well as it could have been in sentations and a brief reception - and all students, faculty better if some of the foods were more exotic.” He also various occasions. ... One of the most recent is the cafete- are invited, of course.” said it was brought up that on the weekends, “Sometimes ria downstairs where they spent all this money on the new He also said the Veterans Association would be holdthere’s no place on campus that’s open, so maybe we stations but we still, sort of, feel cramped in the dining ing another event, which is “essentially an anti-war should bring up whether the Snack Bar can be open 24/7 commons.”

He said he will be trying to figure out what the process event,” according to Poor. He said, “I want everyone to when everything else is closed because you only need one understand that Veterans Day is not a day to, basically, person to staff that, so we can talk to Ralph [Eddy, direc- was for that committee and trying to figure out what could harp on if you’re anti-war or pro-war. I don’t really think be done to improve that so the design is well thought out tor of dining services] about that.” that there’s such a thing as ‘pro-war.’”

Other points Morrongiello discussed included whether next time.

Kendra Dale, SGA senator and also a member of the Long announced the Administrators’ Forum will be vending machines could be Human Rights Action Committee (HRAC), addressed on Nov. 16 and is open to made to accept credit cards, Poor’s point about his club’s “anti-war” event being in everyone. Flanagan and the different channels on the response to the HRAC event that will be held on Veterans vice presidents will be there televisions in the commuter Day. “I just want to clarify with you, as well as everyone “People should want to come to us and be for a meet-and-greet to discafeteria, more support for in the room, it’s not necessarily an anti-war situation. cuss their roles on campus commuter students and parkable to work with us. We don’t want to be “What we’re doing is we’re having a figure from Vetwhile dining on cheese, ing. He said that students erans for Peace come.

It’s totally in support of veterans. so, like, ‘You do this or it’s over!’” crackers and punch. Long he talked to wondered if the It’s not saying that anything that anyone does is unworthy advised that everyone atfaculty parking lot behind of our recognition it totally is. ... We’re just taking a tend in business-casual atLarned Hall could be used for separate side of it. ...

I don’t want you to feel like it’s an - SGA senator Kendra Dale tire or better. There will also students on weekends when it attack on the Veterans Association.” be a question-and-answer is empty. period for senate as a whole He also said students were and the administrators.

He also criticized SGA’s lack of “I want everyone to understand that involvement in last week’s fundraiser, the Best Friend Challenge, which was Veterans Day is not a day to, basically, sponsored by SGA and only attended harp on if you’re anti-war or pro-war. I by six people, according to Long. “In a word: pathetic. Be there,” he said. don’t really think that there’s such a “This is our club. Support our club. ” thing as ‘pro-war.’

“I’m not going to jump on the new senators,” he added, “but for all the old senators, you should be at each one of - Richard Poor, SGA senator and treasurer our fundraisers that you have the opportunity to be at.” of FSU’s Veterans Association Long also noted that many senators have been poorly attending their office Poor responded, “We understand. However, it is a dishours. “As of right now,” he said, “one tasteful day to do it. ... We do recognize your right to free more missed by any one of you, you’re speech, but it is a very distasteful day to do it and it does getting a warning. Two misses, you’re actually hurt us that you would do it on this day. ... If you done - you’re out of senate. did it the next day or the day before that, we could care “There’s an ample amount of peoless, but it’s that day.” ple who have already exceeded the Bruce announced that there will be three suggestion six-absence limit,” he said. “We can boxes made for club rooms two, three and four for clubs run senate with just 15 people. I don’t to write down feedback for SGA and make suggestions want to sound like the big, mean guy about what they “want to see SGA try and do this year.” at the head of the table, but if you’re FSC’s Psychology Club’s budget was unfrozen. not there, then you’re not contributing in the office and we don’t need you to contribute here.”

During open forum, SGA Secretary Molly Goguen said Women’s EmpowEditor’s Note: erment is “putting on a gender incluIn last week’s issue of The Gatepost, the sive [for both men and women] care article “SGA reactivates computer science package drive for soldiers. They really club, discusses question 3,” it was reached out hoping that we could support them.” There is a can set up in the incorrectly reported that the SGA office for people to donate items communications committee would be for the drive. The drive ends Nov. 10. discussing hand soap and paper towels in Poor noted the Veterans Association is hosting a Veterans Day celebration the residence halls. The committee will not on Nov. 10. “We are going to dedicate in fact be discussing hand soap or paper the memorial that we hope is built by towels in the residence halls.

-Continued from page 5

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Arts & Features

8

October 8, 2010

Arts & Features D r. P a u l G a l v i n

By Monique Thomas Staff Writer

leads seminar on mindfulness

If you walked into the forum last Monday night, you may have gotten the impression that you had wandered into a group therapy session led by Dr. Paul Galvin, whose calming voice filled the room, guiding audience members through a series of relaxation techniques on a journey to achieve mindfulness.

Dr. Galvin, Associate Professor of Psychology and Faculty Fellow in the Department of Graduate Studies and Continuing Education, was selected as this year’s speaker to help students “handle the spinning plates of life,” said Dr. Janet Schwartz, chair of consumer sciences.

The presentation was 13th Annual Anna Billa Memorial Lecture Series and was held on Oct. 18 in the D. Justin McCarthy Student Center Forum.

Galvin’s intent? To guide the crowd members into nurturing their awareness in life - to become people of mindfulness, especially when dealing with stress. He did this by treating the audience to his own perspective - a smart, sensible outlook on life.

Galvin led members of the audience in a stress reduction exercise, asking people to get comfortable in their chairs, feet secured to the floor.

He used bells, stating that the purpose was to get the crowds attention, just

as bells do in churches, classrooms and fire departments. Ringing the bell, Galvin asked the audience to spot the moment they heard it - the moment when the brain responds to the bell sound.

The exercise continued for two-and-a-half minutes of ringing, demonstrating the trivial nature of the bell sound, but also the amount of unneeded stress one can develop from hearing such a tone.

Galvin defined mindfulness as “focused attention to each moment of our lives without judgment and with compassion.” Therefore, stress is a product of the antithesis of mindfulness - a disconnect from the here and now. He said stress is a busy brain’s distraction from the “moment[s]” that are most important.

He said struggles aren’t “simply black and white” and people should look at hardships and difficulties without getting sad or angry. They are experiences that people can learn from, even though they can’t always control them.

Galvin said everyone faces stress, but can choose to run to it or away from it. Using himself

as an example, he admitted that he wasn’t used to speaking in this type of setting. “I’m petrified right now, but here I am. In it. Fully,” he said, smiling.

This was not the only connection Galvin made with the audience. During an especially striking moment in his presentation, he tearfully shared another personal hardship: his wife’s battle with breast cancer.

Galvin said he is still learning from this struggle, and has grown closer to his wife in response. His perspective is a beautiful real-life application of remaining mindful, even when situations implore your brain not to be.

Galvin read a poem titled “Enough,” by David Whyte, to help the audience recognize when to deal with the stress. The first half of the poem reads, “Enough. These few words are enough./ If not these words, this breath./ If not this breath, this sitting here.”

Whyte’s dreamy imagery in this poem embodies the quality of mindfulness. To slow down, to appreciate the moment, to understand that “these few words are enough.”

And yet, once the mind slows down

enough for the “words” to be enough, the mind can realize that “this breath,” and even “sitting here” is also enough to reflect, to experience life’s infinite moments as if they are constantly taken snapshots of personal experience.

The poem ends with a realization that once this mindful perspective is achieved, it can stay with a person forever. “This opening to the life/ we have refused/ again and again/ until now./ Until now.”

Galvin asked the audience to participate in a few more breathing exercises by thinking of a stressor that has impacted them in the past to see how their bodies would be affected. By looking at these moments introspectively, the mind can grow and rise above the stress these situations cause.

After the breathing exercise Galvin read “Enough” again. The audience seemed to be paying attention even more closely this time.

This time, the words were enough.

Inter-networking: online dating not just for squares

By Tom O’Brien Arts & Features Editor ou are single. You’re tired of scouring bars, parties and other dives searching for your perfect match - someone interesting, available and (hopefully) sane.

You haven’t had the chance to meet this person yet. Maybe because of a busy work schedule that doesn’t allow for ample opportunities to play the field, or maybe you were just never too good at the whole “face-toface, meeting people thing.”

Internet dating may be for you, it’s for lots of people!

A few short years ago, the common presumption was that any single person who’d turn to his or her computer for love

Y

had to be a geeky, pathetic loser who couldn’t get a date.

More recently, as the Internet continues to change everything from the way people shop, to the way they earn their college degrees, cyberspace has become the hottest pick-up joint on the planet.

According to the Online Dating Magazine, more than 20 million people visit at least one online dating service a month and there are more than 120,000 marriages a year that occur as a result of online dating.

Before taking a seat behind the screen and dipping a toe into the online pool of potential partners, the first step for the newbie online single is to determine what kind of relationship he or she is looking for. Shop-

ping for something serious or no strings attached? Do age, wealth or hobbies matter in a partner?

After just a short time behind a computer screen, it is quickly apparent that any need, desire or stipulation that you have regarding the pursuit of a mate can be found in online dating services. A quick Google-ing of the keyword “online dating” brings up a plethora of different options.

Love a man in uniform?

There’s “UniformDating.”

Lack thereof? Try “Nudistfriends.” Like-minded, sports driven singles meet each other at FitKiss.com, while deaf singles have the chance to link up - Continued on page 10

October 22, 2010

Arts & Features

: At theThVenue e Wal l

Live

R

By Brian Dagley Staff Writer

oger Waters - bassist, vocalist and lyricist of the nowinactive English rock band Pink Floyd - is now on tour again performing The Wall, which is one of the band’s most well-known and innovative albums.

That it was a 1979 album and that Waters himself is now 67 does not seem to matter. The entire two-part concept album has been recreated and modernized. New musicians have been recruited to fill the spots of the original band members, such as that of the incredible guitarist David Gilmour, who has since parted ways with Waters musically. Despite the changes, Waters really was the main creative force behind “The Wall,” and so it is fitting that he is still the performance’s heir.

The Wall was a partially autobiographical album about Roger Waters’ life as a youth and then as a rock star, which also contained some references to the late Syd Barrett, who had to leave the band because of mental illness in 1968. Waters’ father had died in World War II, and consequently, the subject of the war was also central to the storyline.

The fictional protagonist of “The Wall” is Pink, and it is he who becomes the rock star and slowly starts to build a metaphorical wall to protect himself from the world - after abuse, infidelity, drugs, fame and violence take their toll on him.

At the start of the concert, Waters took time to greet the packed venue, and looked genuinely happy to be there. The set list began with “In the Flesh?,” which started slowly, only to burst into a deafening roar of guitars, while jets of fire shot out from all over the stage. Right from the start it was clear that Waters could still sing, despite his age, and still had an incredible amount of energy

Roger Waters bassist/ singer/ lyricist of

Pink Floyd on the stage.

“Another Brick in the Wall, Part 2,” which may be the most iconic song of “The Wall,” was not long to follow. During the song, a group of children joined in to sing their memorable protest against institutionalized education, as a giant wraith-like schoolmaster puppet took the stage.

As the show progressed, large cardboard bricks were slowly added to the stage one by one, to form the massive wall. Once set in place, each brick served as part of a giant screen, which constantly displayed thematic images and effects to enhance the songs. As the wall grew, the performers would play in physical gaps of the wall, or in front of it.

The next classic played was “Mother,” an acoustic song that Waters performed in spotlight, after offering a few kind words about his late mother. As he played, the wall behind him displayed video footage of a young Waters from decades before playing the same song. By the time the concert had reached its halfway intermission, the wall had been fully built, and separated the entire band from the fans. During this time, the somber “Hey You” was played, followed by the equally isolating “Nobody Home” - Waters playing the piano in a hotel set to the left of the wall.

And so the concert progressed, with each memorable song also bringing surprises in the

form of the musicians’ changing set up and costumes, as well as the nature of the video being displayed on the wall.

Massive puppets, pyrotechnics, spotlights and sound effects were used throughout the venue as well. Current videos of modern world conflicts, pictures of those returning from and those lost in war, on-screen quotations and animated planes dropping bombs in the shape of religious symbols, dollar signs and company logos were used to convey Waters’ current message against war, control and consumerism.

The second half of the concert featured one of the band’s most popular songs, “Comfortably Numb,” which was performed spectacularly with the guitarist soloing atop the wall as Waters stood below, while psychedelic patterns erupted from the wall. Finally, as the fictional Pink progressed into insanity during “The Trial,” the wall itself was torn down completely onstage.

The Wall was a great experience, where a variety of musical performances and visuals were presented, which at the same time fit seamlessly together as a whole.

9

Arts & Features

10 - Continued from page 8

at Deafsinglesmeet.com.

However, most singles are interested in networking their way into the most highly trafficked sites, home to massive online communities of available people.

Although, if new Internet singles are setting out on a safari through the jungle of online profiles for the first time, they’re going to need a guide to help manage the trip.

The most popular sites seem to be “eHarmony,” “Match.com” and “Plentyoffish” - all of which have garnered primetime television commercials boasting their unique matching techniques, as well as success stories from users.

According to the website, “Plentyoffish.com,” members will go on over 18,000,000 dates with other users this year. Match.com promises unparalleled matching built on “15 years of experience as the online dating leader.”

Those on eHarmony are prescreened on “29 Dimensions of Compabability.”

Framingham State College sophomore Steve Manning said, “I could never use an online dating site. I would check it all the time. ... I can

barely handle Facebook.”

Most sites operate in pretty much the same way.

First a person signs up, picks a nickname and uploads a picture of him or herself.

Next, the user must answer a personality questionnaire and based upon these answers, the single is matched up with others he or she is most likely to “connect with.”

The better the compatibility screening, the less unwanted profiles a user will have to search through.

The evaluation process and access to the list of possible partners is free, while the ability to communicate among these matches often requires a subscription.

“Online dating for the cost of a single date,” as it is put on Match.com.

In a hands on experiment, the sign-up process for “eHarmony” was pretty smooth for a first-time user, though shockingly extensive.

After nine pages of questions the progress bar indicated the affair was still only 40 percent done. Oy vey!

The questionnaires on these dating sites basically force users to think introspectively about themselves throughout the sign-up

process. The instructions of “eHarmony” engagingly suggest, “Remember: There are no right or wrong answers.

Please be as honest with us, and yourself, as possible.”

Questions on the survey were true/false, open-ended and also ratings on a scale.

They covered topics from interest in backpacking versus astrology, to “THREE things for which YOU are the MOST thankful.”

New users slide down page after page of questions, left-clicking on how bossy or adventurous they would call themselves. How romantic, restless or opinionated their friends would describe them.

Users scale themselves up against the rest of the online populace by answering wave after wave of questions.

Trying to speedily cheat through the laborious “About You” section on the eHarmony site prompts the stern message, “We notice that every question on this page currently has the same answer.

This usually indicates that a user is rushing through our process, which has a negative impact on our ability to create compatible matches.”

The operation could not continue until the answers

were more diverse.

After completion of the sign-up process, the site quickly produced a list of seven potential mates who were found to be compatible after the questionnaire was completed. Signing up for most sites seems to be about a 30-minute process, making virtual courtship available almost instantly.

The vast number of relationships that have spawned as a result of Internet dating prove that it is a successful medium, and yet, prejudice abounds.

The call of love beckons at your modem - do you answer?

Former FSC student Conor Flanagan said, “I signed up once, probably two years ago. The second I finished filling everything out I had like 10 messages from people. I was so freaked out I never responded to any of them and just didn’t use the site.”

Bentley University sophomore Andrew Fox said, “Hey, whatever works for you, works for you. I would never use an online dating website, but I can’t knock it … until I’ve tried it.”

FSC sophomore fashion

October 22, 2010

major Megg Costa said, “Online dating can be good, but you have to be careful about it!”

Sophomore psychology major Amanda Foisy said, “I enjoy ‘PlentyofFish,’ but I wasn’t actually trying to find anything on it. … There are a lot of creeps out there, but there are normal people on the site, too. It just all depends on who you respond to.”

Shrewsbury resident, 18-year-old, Will Dell’Erba, who prefers to meet girls in person said, “It’s a good way to meet people, then never have to talk to them again if you don’t want to. It’s different.”

Sophomore communication arts major Steve Manning said, “I could never use an online dating site. I would check it all the time. ... I can barely handle Facebook.”

Sophomore nutrition major Alex Martin said, “Online dating is fake.

Pictures can make you look bigger than you really are.”

Sophomore English major James Russo said, “Online dating is stupid.

It’s for those who cannot form actual relationships for themselves. And ‘eHarmony’ even rejects people!”

What additions to the Library would you like to see? Campus ConversationS

By Tom O’Brien & Spencer Buell

“More outlets. I ususally have to walk around the library for 20 minutes looking for one.”

“Stripper pole and a nacho fountain - three cheeses!”

- Deanna Flynn, senior education major

- Corey Chaney, junior sociology major

“I’d keep it open 24 hours. It’s ridiculous that it’s not.”

“Add a movie section in case you want to watch a movie instead of reading a book.”

- Wesley Luo, senior biology major

- Dave McNeill, sophomore sociology major

“The chairs should be more squishy.”

“I’d add more CDs and music, so I can add it to my iTunes.”

- Amanda Levitan, senior psychology major

- Jillian Sawicki, freshman psychology major

11

Arts & Features

October 22, 2010

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Op/Ed

12

The Gatepost Editorial

October 22, 2010

Op/Ed Jefferson Thomas a true American hero

I read in the Sept. 7 issue of The Boston Globe that Jefferson Thomas, one of the Little Rock Nine, passed away on Sept. 5 at 67 from pancreatic cancer. It made me think about what I learned about the Little Rock Nine.

The Little Rock Nine consisted of Thomas and eight other black high schoolers who were selected to integrate Central High School in Little Rock, Ark. in 1957, based on their high academics and attendance. This was done to enforce a Supreme Court order in 1954 to outlaw racial segregation in American public schools.

Governor Orval Faubus attempted to block them by sending in the National Guard, but President Dwight Eisenhower sent in the Army’s 101st Airborne Division to escort the students to school.

Plus, they faced hardships from mobs of white students who insulted and physically assaulted them.

Thomas, who was also an outstanding athlete, was insulted by his white counterparts, who said they didn’t mind playing sports with him, but didn’t think he was “smart enough to sit next” to them in class.

Despite these obstacles, Thomas went on to graduate from Central High in 1960 and earned a bachelor degree in business administration from Los Angeles State College, working as an accounting clerk until 2004.

He and the students were honored for their bravery during this crisis, including receiving Congressional Gold Medals after the 40th Anniversary, and being invited to the Presidential Center during the 50th Anniversary.

Now, in 2010, things are significantly different. We have our first president of color. More minorities are in other forms of public service. Even here at the university, there are more minorities who are actively involved on campus - I being one of them.

Yet, there are times when reports of racism surface, even here at the university, but can one imagine constantly being harassed by students who don’t want to go to school with you because of your race? Can you imagine being spat upon by a parent who doesn’t want you to go to school with his/her child? Can you imagine being accompanied by a paratrooper to school to avoid an angry mob?

Mr. Thomas and his fellow classmates were very brave souls indeed. They were determined to go to school and get a good, public school education as their rights as excellent students and American citizens. Their determination was inspiring and significant enough for public schools to become integrated.

Thank you, Mr. Jefferson Thomas, for being a true American hero. Rest in peace.

Monique Thomas Staff Writer

Scheduling woes make life difficult for FSC freshmen If there is one problem I have experienced so far here at Framingham State, it would have to be the administration’s decision to pick your classes for you first semester. Once you reach college, one of the so-called “perks” of college over high school is being able to choose your own classes you enjoy, among other things. However, Framingham State has deprived all first-semester freshmen from choosing their own classes, resulting in students like myself taking classes they don’t enjoy. This ridiculous decision by the school must result in increased withdrawals and worse grades. I, for one can tell you that my grades will be worse this semester thanks to not being able to choose my own classes.

For example, even if I have no interest in mathematics whatsoever, Framingham State may still decide to put me into a calculus class. Yes, I’m aware that you need to take a class toward your general education requirements, yet due to my lack of interest in math, if given the choice, I would just have taken a less rigorous math course offered here to get the math requirement out of the way.

Another problem with this decision by the school is the timing of all my classes. I’m stuck taking late classes early in the week. This makes it difficult in regards to my work study job. My job is event staff for home sporting events. Since I have late classes every week Monday through Wednesday, I have lost out on countless times to attend work thanks to this forced schedule, meaning I may not reach the maximum amount of money I was awarded in my financial aid package.

This is a problem I won’t have to deal with ever again after this semester. Hopefully, future freshmen at Framingham State don’t have to deal with this problem because I can tell you firsthand, it has made my college experience much more of a headache, not less of one as the school administrators claim when they tell you they’re making your schedule at orientation.

Ryan Creed Editorial Staff We at The Gatepost welcome Op/Ed submissions from all members of the FSC community. Please limit opinions to 300 words and letters to the editor to 200 words.

E-mail submissions to Gatepost@framingham.edu.

Op/Ed submissions reflect the opinions of their authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of The Gatepost or its staff.

October 22, 2010

The road not taken

By Samantha R. Hamel Gatepost Columnist Last month, I was walking on campus with a recent alumnus, noticing the view-obstructing dormitory and the newly missing cherry trees that once framed the stairs in front of May Hall. He commented that he was disappointed by some of these recent changes made to the appearance of the campus, as they not only diminished the attractiveness of the campus, but chipped away at its identity, too. With a sigh, he said, “It makes me miss this place less.”

Somehow, I don’t think this is the response these changes are meant to evoke.

FSU is becoming a cramped, cluttered campus on the verge of being overbuilt. Our entranceway onto State Street no longer offers a view of a picturesque “collegeon-the-hill,” but is instead a claustrophobic road sandwiched between two massive buildings.

Our open, “green” space is slowly vanishing. Efforts to expand green space are causing more harm to the look of the campus, such as the removal of the flowering trees in front of May Hall. Soon, another important island of space on Framingham State’s 73 acres will disappear with the Hemenway Hall science lab expansion that, as important and necessary as it is, will plow through many a tree and creep halfway up Larned Beach.

Alas, this is the way of progress.

But was there another way?

Enter the road not taken: the Marlborough Conference Center. Only three years ago, our already-overcrowded Framingham State was abuzz with talk of acquiring this facility, which sits only 12 miles west of campus - closer than the homes of most commuter students. According to a Gatepost article from Feb. 29, 2008, the complex was in “move-in condition,” featuring “housing for 200-plus students in single, furnished rooms with private bathrooms, a 400-seat dining facility, a 170-seat auditorium, 54 furnished conference rooms, laundry facilities, a fitness center, a heated indoor pool and spa” and, of course, plenty of parking.

Situated on 25 acres, it also offered additional expansion possibilities besides student housing, such as athletic fields and expansions of the McAuliffe Center and the Division of Graduate and Continuing Education. At a $19 million price tag, the site was deemed unaffordable by the school’s top administrators, who also expressed a concern about the “‘long-term financial well-being of the college,’” according to Vice President of Enrollment and Student Development Susanne Conley, who was quoted in the article.

Flash forward three years. FSU is more overcrowded than ever. Students are housed in residence hall studies, in a rented hallway of the Sheraton on Route 9 and even in a wing of the Marlborough Conference Center, which FSU rented from its eventual buyer, a company owned by the Chinese government. A new dorm is being built to house these students … at a $47.9 million price tag.

Financially, this doesn’t make sense.

This new dorm costs two-and-a-half times more than the Marlborough site would have, yet the only problem it solves (not even considering the problems it creates) is student housing. The Marlborough Conference Center would have added a cafeteria (renovations to the commuter caf cost $1.5 million), parking (replacing the State Street parking lot cost $5.5 million) and offices and conference rooms (renovating parts of O’Connor Hall for this purpose will undoubtedly also cost a lot of money). Did I mention that many of the classrooms in the Marlborough complex were already equipped with expensive “smart” technology? A $19 million price tag is not looking so bad now, huh?

On the university website, FSU describes itself with pride as “a family-style community” with a “traditional New England campus” appeal. But if administrators continue to overbuild, our campus will be in serious danger of losing its essential charm. At this rate, what will FSU look like in 2050?

Yes, I believe Framingham State missed out on a great opportunity - for the present and the future. However, there is still a lesson that can be taken from this missed chance.

Eventually, FSU will need a bigger footprint - 73 acres will only go so far, and in a heavily settled area like Framingham, there’s only so far out we can extend. Lots of colleges and universities have satellite campuses and are able to utilize them in practical, helpful ways. If properly planned, a satellite campus could offer Framingham State a chance to expand its boundaries, accommodate additional students and save some green - on its grounds and in its wallet.

This is the way of progress.

Op/Ed

Op/Ed

13

Political correctness gone wrong

Last Thursday morning, ABC’s “The View” invited Bill O’Reilly as a guest on the show, who, speaking about the current “Ground Zero Mosque” controversy, claimed that “Muslims killed us on 9/11.” This statement prompted Whoopi Goldberg to curse on live television, then along with fellow co-host Joy Behar, to walk off her own show.

After citing a poll which claims 70 percent of Americans disagree with a mosque being built near the 9/11 site, O’Reilly stated that building this mosque would be inappropriate “because Muslims killed us on 9/11.” Now while I’m aware Mr. O’Reilly has a reputation for stirring up controversy, I have a hard time seeing how or why his words caused an enraged Goldberg and Behar to the point of walking away from their adoring audience.

Apparently, Goldberg didn’t appreciate the fact that O’Reilly “generalized” Muslims all over the planet by failing to add the word “extremists” to his outlandish comment. While she may be correct in her charge of insensitivity, she’s failing to address the bigger picture. Of course they were extremists, or terrorists, or whatever you want to call them, but does anyone really doubt the fact that they were Muslim? Rather than address the point O’Reilly was making, Goldberg and Behar decided to take the message out context and focus on specific terminology (or in this case, the lack thereof).

This raises an enormous concern our country faces today - the restriction that political correctness has placed on intelligent debate. No longer can people discuss controversial topics without worrying about who’s going to be offended! O’Reilly’s appearance on “The View” is a prime example. Because of the lack of the word “extremists” in his sentence, two PC-minded hosts decided to pinpoint this absence in speech rather than address the substance of the message.

How are we to get anywhere intellectually with these games of political correctness framing our discussions? The answer is not far at all. Would it have been so hard for Whoopi to simply say, “Excuse me Bill, I think you meant to say ‘Muslim extremists?’” Instead of a freak-out, she could have simply corrected his sentence, and then responded accordingly.

Unfortunately, we continue to see the PC card played over and over again, from our cable television networks to our newspapers. Until we can learn to look beyond the inevitable insensitivity which surrounds all controversial conversation to some degree or another, our country is doomed to more network television walk-offs. But hey, ratings are up! Where’s George Carlin when you need him?

Chris Kopacko Opinion Editor

Rethinking the role of the critic

I don’t know how other English departments organize the escalation into literary nirvana, but at FSU the closer you are to gaining a degree, the less of your own voice you get to use. Lit Study as an early requirement certainly provides a foundation on which to build further readings in later classes. But in those early, preconscious states before most English majors have really found their way, a thesis paper only requires no more than five sources - and then, not all criticism. But get a little farther up, and welcome to the veritable boiling tar pit of 300-level courses - a term that somehow justifies the requirement of quoting 10+ critics for a 10-page paper. Excuse me? Where am I supposed to fit my own words?

I’ll be honest … this used to come easy to me. The fact is, I’m no longer morally capable of making bold claims about literature. Or maybe I’m just bored with it. I write novels, damn it, and the notoriety of a critic is something I consider to be no more than vicarious fame. I recently wrote a 5-page paper that was extremely easy to flesh out and my thesis was right there in the text. Not a stretch to be made. Yet, the criterion of even having one critic to quote hindered my writing flow.

But so it goes. It makes sense to quote one or two (as much sense as is made by any other thing an English major does) if only to continue the conversation. However, what doesn’t make sense is that after writing an even 15 thesis papers, I have not unlocked the upgrade necessary to speak for myself. Nay, it would seem that the more I write about literature, the more I’m chained to the ideas of some distant, daunting, cackling critics. Thanks Norton, but I’ll take it from here.

“English major” is a phrase that limits your freedom. It molds teachers and critics (and sometimes writers, but I have doubts that quality fiction will come out of today’s literature departments “We’re great at talking about it, though!”) But my understanding was always that the idea behind studying literature is to develop a practiced mind - one that can then construct its own story and go to war with the blank page knowing that it has the right faculties to win. But that’s not the case.

It occurred to me this semester that my scholarly advancement has stopped. Majoring in literature has brought me as far as it’s going to. What are all these Norton anthologies going to bring me? If I were still going to be a teacher, maybe I could justify flooding my brain with criticism. But why would I want to teach in this dreadful MCAS era? So I can drill “isms” into the blushing minds of tomorrow? No, thank you. Literature is being killed off by the greedy, critiquing, page-turning fingers of the information age.

Joel Mongeon Class of 2011 We at The Gatepost welcome Op/Ed submissions from all members of the FSC community. Please limit opinions to 300 words and letters to the editor to 200 words.

E-mail submissions to Gatepost@framingham.edu.

Op/Ed submissions reflect the opinions of their authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of The Gatepost or its staff.

14

October 22, 2010

Sports On The Sideline

Women’s Volleyball Captain Jessi Goode

By Nenia Corcoran Sports Editor

which is also a plus, and we have figured out how to play as a team, which I could not be happier about.

GP: How did you get involved in the sport?

Goode: I started playing volleyball when I was in third grade. It is a really big sport in my town, so there are camps and clubs that start pretty young. I also was motivated to play because my sister had played while she was in high school and I was always trying to be like her.

GP: What does the role of captain mean to you?

Goode: I think being a captain means someone who can support their team and motivate them to always give their best.

It’s important for a captain to make sure the attitude of the team is always a positive one and if there are problems, make sure they are being resolved.

GP: Who was your favorite athlete growing up?

GP: What will you miss most when the season is over?

Goode: I don’t think I had a favorite athlete, but I did watch a lot of sports with my dad growing up.

Goode: Once our season is over I will definitely miss my teammates the most.

I’ve been lucky enough to play with some amazing girls while I’ve been at FSC.

GP: What has been your most memorable moment as an athlete here at FSC?

GP: Do you have any pre-game rituals or superstitions?

Goode: My most memorable moment at FSC would have to be when we beat Bridgewater State this year. They have always been the volleyball team’s rivals, and even more so for me because there are a lot of girls on the team who I used to play with in high school. Playing them each year was always fun, especially to play against my friends, but being able to beat them senior year was definitely memorable.

Goode: Before each game, when the national anthem is being played the team holds hands, but I squeeze my teammates hands to the beat of the music (it is kind of hard to describe in words). I guess it kind of helps me get any nerves I have out of my system and gets me focused on the game.

GP: How do you think the team has performed so far this year?

Goode: For me, balancing school and sports isn’t very difficult. It kind of keeps me on task and makes me complete my work early so I know I will get it done.

Although having all that free time after the season to do my work at least allows me to have some time to relax.

Goode: I think the team has played really well all year. We had a lot of freshman that had to step up to play and I think they have done great. We have been able to achieve a lot of our goals for the season,

GP: Is it difficult to balance school and sports?

The Gatepost Archives

Senior Jessi Goode leads her team in defensive digs, averaging over four per game.

Editors’ NFL Picks Of The Week

New England at San Diego (-3): New York Giants at Dallas (-3): Josh’s Pick (6-0): New England 27-19 Nenia’s Pick (5-1): New England 28-17 Ryan’s Pick (3-3): New England 24-14 Matt’s Pick: (1-5): New England 23-17

Josh’s Pick (6-0): New York 31-17 Nenia’s Pick (5-1): New York 31-14 Ryan’s Pick (3-3): Dallas 31-27 Matt’s Pick: (1-5): Dallas 23-20

DID YOU KNOW...?

The Stanley Cup was originally only 7.28 inches high.

It now stands at 89.54 inches and has 2,163 names engraved on it.

October 22, 2010

By Matt Cook Assistant Sports Editor

Sports

15

Field Hockey downs Bridgewater in overtime

With their 3-2 victory against Bridgewater State on Wednesday, the Framingham State Field Hockey team has a 5-9 record overall and a 3-6 record in the MASCAC. In the first half of play, it didn’t appear that Framingham had a chance for victory. The Bears outshot the Rams 13-1, but the defense of the Rams prevented any goals in the first 19 minutes of play.

Sophomore Shelby Farland found the top corner of the net, giving the Bears a 1-0 lead with 16 minutes remaining in the first half.

Only six minutes later, the Bears added another goal as a result of impressive moves from both senior Bethany Bush and junior Breanna Clement that split the Rams’ defense, catching them off guard.

The first 35 minutes of play ended without Framingham achieving a goal, but the second half featured a large change of pace for the Rams.

In only three minutes of play, the Rams started their offensive comeback when senior Andrea DiTerlizzi answered on a penalty stroke. It was also her first goal of the season, and came at a perfect time in the game, with around 30 minutes of play remaining.

The goal to even the game came in the 54th minute and the tie would remain for the rest of regulation.

For the second time in the season, Framingham had to play in overtime.

On Sept. 25, they lost 2-1 against Worcester State.

For the first minute of the overtime period, Framingham maintained their healthy and effective defense, resulting in their improved offense. Just 1:08 into extra play, the Rams scored the game-winner.

This was only Bridgewater State’s second loss in the MASCAC this season. Framingham State only has three games left in the season and if they are fortunate to come away victorious in all three, they will finish MASCAC play with a .500 record.

Matt Cook/The Gatepost

Andrea DiTerlizzi scored on a penalty stroke three minutes into the game helping her team to secure the win over Bidgewater.

Rams doomed by second-half collapse

By Ryan Creed Assistant Sports Editor

Saturday at Maple Field, the Framingham State Rams were unable to come away victors in their huge conference tilt with the defending New England Football Conference champion Maine Maritime Mariners. While the Rams were looking to take another step toward a NEFC title, the Mariners had other ideas.

From the start, the Mariner offense would be on top of its game, running the old-time triple-option offense. On the first play from scrimmage, running back Matt Rende was able to find an open lane, scampering for a pickup of 30 yards before being taken down at the FSC 36yard line.

Four plays later, after three runs netted nine yards, setting up a fourth-and-one, Rende was able to rush 27 yards for the game’s first touchdown. A fake field goal attempt would fail, leaving the score at 6-0 with 12:36 remaining in the first quarter.

Although Maine Maritime was able to strike quickly, confidence still had to be running high on the sidelines thanks to Framingham State’s offense which had put up over 40 points in their past three games.

The offensive momentum would not carry over into this game, as the Rams’ offense produced a quick three-and-out, a start FSC fans haven’t been accustomed to seeing thus this season.

After the two teams exchanged possessions resulting in no points, Maine Maritime would begin to drive down the field, looking to go up by two scores.

Continuing to rely on the ground game, Maine Maritime decided on this drive to rely heavily on fullback Jim Bower.

On a crucial third-and-one from their own 44-yard line, Bower was able to run straight through the defense for three yards and a first down. Just two plays later, Bower was able to plow through the defense for a 21-yard gain, setting the Mariners’ offense up with a first down deep in Ram territory.

Framingham State’s defense would

respond on the next play, as senior Framingham State would be unfazed FSC’s defense would hold tight, linebacker Joe Treacy was able to force by the quick strike, as Leone and the handing the ball back to the offense with Bower to fumble. FSC safety Mark offense would fire back. five minutes left in the half. The Rams Nunes would fall on the ball handing Two quick first downs occurred when wasted no time, as Leone found Shawn the Framingham State offense the ball at Leone was able to find his favorite target, Miller for a 61-yard touchdown grab. their 22-yard line.

James McCarthy.

The score gave the Rams their first lead After two incomplete passes thrown After Leone and Van Alstyne picked of the game at 20-14. by quarterback Kurt Leone, the Rams’ up first downs on the ground, the Rams’ To answer Framingham’s score, the offense was facing another third-and- offense would stall on the Mariner eight- Mariners called on the Bower-Rende long. Leone would find the open man, yard line. Coach Tom Kelley would go tandem to get the lead back. They would finding wide out Alex Avery for a pick- for it on fourth down, and the decision do the job, as Rende was able to dash up of 30 yards. paid off with Leone lobbing in a 65-yards for a score and a one-point Leone began to find his rhythm, as touchdown pass to McCarthy, cutting the Mariner lead heading into halftime. on the next two plays he would run and Maine Maritime lead to 14-13.

After a missed field goal to end the throw for two more first half, FSC received the ball first downs, setting to start the third. Van Alstyne the ball up at the would help FSC pick up two first Mariner 20-yard downs, bringing the ball into line to end the first Mariner territory. Leone would quarter. find Miller for another first down, To open the before finding Michael Cochrane second, the Rams’ for a nine-yard touchdown pass. offense would Another missed PAT left the lead call on freshman at 26-21 early in the third quarter. sensation Melikke This would be as close as FSC Van Alstyne to carry came to victory as a second half the rock. collapse was about to begin. Two Van Alstyne touchdown runs of 27 and 67 would dart all the yards by Bower would give Maine way down to the Maritime a ten-point lead heading two yard-line. On into the fourth quarter. the next play, David The Mariners’ offense would Leach would take continued to pour it on in the fourth the direct snap as a 17-yard run by Rende and a out of the Wildcat 2-yard scamper by Todd Murphy formation, running jacked the score up to 50-26. into the end zone The second-half collapse for six points. The waould be devastating for the PAT was blocked, Rams as the winner of this contest leaving the game would have the inside track on tied at six. capturing an NEFC title.

Maine Maritime Captain Anthony Pappagallo would respond said, “The triple-option is a tough quickly, scoring offense to stop when run well, in just four plays, and they run it very well. Their capped off by a quarterback always made the Bower 49-yard right reads and the fullback was touchdown run. unstoppable and we just couldn’t Bower would also figure them out.”

Nenia Corcoran/The Gatepost convert the twoFramingham State will look point try, running to rebound on Saturday at 1:30 it in to give Maine when they travel to Westfield State Leone fires a pass against the tough Mariners’ defense.

Maritime a 14-6 College. advantage.

16

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October 22, 2010

Lots of laughs at FSC Drake McCabe/ The Gatepost

KelseyLoverude/ The Gatepost

Improv show getting laughs from students

KelseyLoverude/ The Gatepost

KelseyLoverude/ The Gatepost

KelseyLoverude/ The Gatepost

KelseyLoverude/ The Gatepost

KelseyLoverude/ The Gatepost

Students making crafts at Women’s Empowerment Drake McCabe/ The Gatepost

Drake McCabe/ The Gatepost

Drake McCabe/ The Gatepost