The Current Issue 11

The Official Student Newspaper of Eckerd College

Vol. XXIV

April 30, 2010

St. Petersburg, Florida

Issue 11

Coming soon Get ready for the GO Pavilion, opening late next fall Read the full story on page 5

Relay for Life

EC raises more than $18,000

News & Features — Page 3

Fake profiles

A farewell to Dean Chapin

When your Facebook friends aren’t real

The man behind the legacy

Viewpoints — Page 11

Viewpoints — Page 14

news & features

ITS explores wireless options Executive Board Managing Editor Meagan Bemis thecurrent@eckerd.edu Editor-in-Chief Petra Stevenson Copy Editor Emily Krumm Director of Advertising Caitlin Gerry Asst. Advertising Abby Gestl currentads@eckerd.edu Faculty Adviser Tracy Crow

Editorial Board News Editor Laurel Ormiston currentnews@eckerd.edu Entertainment Editor Francie Devine currententertainment@eckerd.edu Viewpoints Editor Catee Baugh currentviews@eckerd.edu Photography Editors Shawn Craine Erin Linebarger Sports Editor Max Martinez currentsports@eckerd.edu Sports Photographer Doug Thayer

Staff Writers Jaclyn New Jeralyn Darling Johnny Jones Sarah Malhotra Sarah Yost Will Creager Abby Gestl Kasey Kilinski Ethan Packey

Contributing Writers Sarah Karpf Allie Solan Dexter Howard Ben Maxwell Ashley Daniels Kirsten Sengstacke Mitchell Ann Crowley

• April 30, 2010 • • Vol. XXIV Iss. 11 • 2

Friday, April 30 2010

By Abby Gestl Staff Writer Eckerd’s Information and Technology Services (ITS) department is currently using Iota as a testing ground for a new device that will make wireless Internet more available in the student dorms. If tests prove positive, older computers that connect to the wireless network will no longer slow down faster computers’ Internet connection—or at least not as much. The older dorms were obviously not constructed with wireless Internet applications in mind, so the campus needs more than 200 switches to provide and control wireless signals.

With each new year, more and more students are watching videos and playing games online—activites that consume a lot of bandwidth. Even though ITS was recently able to upgrade bandwidth from 39mbs to 100mbs, the current Time Warner Telecom (TWTC) contract with EC limits the amount of bandwidth we can use. This creates a few challenges.

The folks at ITS are searching for creative solutions.

One is through the use of secondary bandwidth sources, which are actually cable modems. By the time students arrive in the fall, ITS hopes to have more bandwidth available for students and faculty on campus. ITS is currently testing new cable modems that could help with Internet speed. Multiple sources of bandwidth are much needed because of the possibility of a bandwidth outage.

The other sources act as a “backup” for bandwidth, and considering that EC suffered two bandwidth outages caused by our primary provider within the last three months, these backups are obviously much needed.

The more bandwidth available, the more applications available to students. For example, this might mean better e-mail and even data storage for students that

would be located “in the cloud” of the Internet rather than on campus. Currently, if the college shuts down for a hurricane, all the school data has to be transferred and stored in Tampa. If the plan for more bandwidth is successful, some of this might no longer be necessary.

Another application being explored is a “virtual computer lab.” Imagine a computer that could easily change software without the hassle of downloading multiple CDs. A computer used for chemistry, for instance, could download the needed software, then once the chemistry part was done, download other software needed for a biology lab.

March 2011 is when the Eckerd’s current contract with the TWTC, our Internet service provider, expires, and that is when the biggest changes to the college’s network are likely to occur. According to ITS, Eckerd also hopes to connect to a network called the Florida Lamda Rail (FLR) project in the future. The FLR is an Internet backbone that provides bandwidth on demand in a pay-as-you-go basis, unless it is a “peer partner” such as Google or other widely used sites that would be free to visit. The closest “jump” point onto the FLR is located in Tampa. There is a movement to help private colleges, such as our own, connect to it, though this probably won’t happen for some time.

The ITS staff also goes out every summer to map the network area to find and fix “dead spots” in the campus wireless network. Furthermore, ITS is exploring the possibility of being able to offer cables for computers needing Ethernet cords if the wireless network is unavailable where they are.

Additionally, ITS hopes of finally gaining an uninterrupted power source (UPS) so that the network won’t fail during any of the numerous thunderstorms to which Florida is prone.

news & features

Lauren Albritton pies Professor Heather Vincent.

photos by Francie Devine and Casey Malone

Relay for Life an all-nighter for a cure

By Francie Devine Entertainment Editor

W

hile college students are used to staying up all night for various reasons, on April 16 a committed group of about 250 gathered on North Field for Eckerd’s 3rd annual Relay for Life. The group raised $18,791.79 to support the American Cancer Society’s diligent fight against cancer.

Preparation for this event took several months and a great deal of effort from the event chair, Junior Lauren Albritton, and her many committee members.

When asked how the 2010 Relay went, Albritton answered, “I do feel that Relay was a success. It is continually growing each year in support from the students, faculty and staff, and that alone is really encouraging.” She added, “Being reminded that a little of what we did really does make a difference and does change lives. That was the most rewarding part.”

Relay for Life is a program under the American Cancer Society in which participants take turns walking or running laps around a track all night. The Relay motto on the ACS Web site states the purpose is to “celebrate the lives of people who have battled

cancer, remember loved ones lost, and fight back against the disease.” Albritton described the night in her opening speech as a metaphor for a cancer diagnosis. The sunset is the initial diagnosis of the disease and the struggle to stay awake represents an ongoing battle of treatments; the sunrise and daylight represents a patient’s remission.

While every Relay is different, each shares the same core values and ceremonies, such as Survivor lap and Luminaria. The survivor lap respects the struggle and celebrates winning the battle against cancer. For the Luminaria ceremony, all lights are turned off and the track illuminated by personally decorated bags to honor those affected by cancer.

Relay is meant as an upbeat event. Eckerd’s theme this year was games. Teams included

representations of Apples to Apples, Jumanji, Clue, Quidditch, Life and Candyland, among others. Each team asked for donations before the event and had an onsite fundraiser to raise even more. Each hour throughout the night, an activity was designed to keep the body and mind alert. Group favorites seemed to be the water balloon fight, dizzy bat contest and the early morning dance party.

Since Relay is only held once a year, the lasting effects of the event are hard to imagine; but ACS representative, Ryan Grable, said that the moving stories of survivors and the visible courage help keep the fight alive yearlong. Activities co-chair and Junior Casey Malone saw the power of the night firsthand.

“During the night, a man from facilities stopped by. He couldn’t stay long but he wanted to make a Luminaria bag for his daughter who was recently diagnosed with breast cancer. He talked about his daughter, while I talked about my grandfather.” She added, “That’s the beautiful thing about Relay for Life... meeting new people that house some of the same struggles and heartaches that you are plagued with as well, and being able to share them; to realize that we are all in this beautiful disaster together.”

Above: Students and community members walk the survivor lap.

Left: Students participate in Relay activities.

Right: Teresa Busby and Beca Franca watch watch Relay’s opening ceremony.

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news & features

EC alum combines interests to become Antarctic project manager

By Jaclyn New Staff Writer What do Antarctic penguins, technical writing and puppet shows have in common? A whole lot more than you would think. Along with a cup of curiosity and a pinch of ambition, these ingredients comprise an enchanting but rare concoction. It was this recipe for a most gratifying and savory life that fashioned the spirit and passion of Eckerd College Alumna Patricia Jackson.

Jackson currently works for the U.S. Antarctic Program for Raytheon Polar Services as one of only seven planning support managers. “I have been with this company for ten years, so I’ve done a lot throughout the whole country and now in Antarctica,” says Jackson. This position is both challenging and rewarding; it demands specific qualities to organize projects and provide logistical support to scientists trying to carry out their research.

The whole program survives under the support of the National Science Foundation, which grants funds to researchers from all over the country. Jackson spends her time planning everything for these projects, including even the most tedious details. “If the research involves animals, I have to plan the timing so that they can get down to the ice every day on snow mobiles and have access to those animals,” explains Jackson. The management of these projects requires extensive amounts of time.

Jackson reveals, “I plan projects anywhere from 618 months to 2 years in advance.”

All of these projects are based in either of the three continental stations or the two research vessels in Antarctica. One of the vessels, the Nathaniel B. Palmer, is an impressive ice breaker while the other, the Laurence M. Gould, provides the only way to transport contractors and grantees to one of the continental sites on Anvers Island, Palmer Station.

Jackson’s primary interest in marine projects

is reflected in her involvement with the Office of Polar Programs, a section of the NSF, which funds research in such areas as biology, oceanography and geology. Another area that has captured the interest of the current scientific community is that of astrophysics. Jackson explains, “The South Pole is a pristine environment with almost no pollution in the air, so they can study a lot of different things using just conventional telescopes.”

The NSF also sponsors an Artist and Writer program that provides funds for different authors and artists to travel to Antarctica. “This year there will be two documentary filmmaking projects, a radio announcer will produce a radio show from down there, and a writer will be working on a book about Antarctic aviation,” explains Jackson.

They’ve harbored everything from sculptors to poets, and last year they even had a puppeteer, all of whom share their experiences with people who will never get to go to Antartica.

J a c k s o n ’ s exhilarating and remarkable line of work stems from her experiences both before, during, and after her time at Eckerd. From a very young age she had a keen interest in the sciences.

Jackson explains, “I’m not sure what generated that interest. It’s been with me so long that I don’t know what started it.” Prior to her completion of high school, Jackson became a technical writer.

With a plethora of interests, she constantly found it difficult to choose between the things she enjoyed.

As a technical writer, she was able to combine her interests. “I found tech writing to be very enjoyable because it got me involved in writing but also allowed me to dip a toe in the technology part of it, too,” says Jackson.

It wasn’t until much later that she decided to enroll at Eckerd College. Jackson explains, “I’d been out of school for thirteen years pursuing education in a different way.” She had been checking out books at

Jackson’s experience at Eckerd relates to many current students struggling with a variety of different interests. “If you are undecided, don’t take that as negative,” she says. “If you see it as positive, you can pursue the things that you’re interested in and find ways to combine your various interests.”

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Friday, April 30, 2010

courtesy of Wikicommons

the library to enhance her skills at technical writing, when she realized how important a college diploma is. With the help of her mentor, George Meese, she constructed her own unique major that included science courses as well as classes from very different disciplines. “My focus was becoming scientifically and technologically literate and gaining tools and learning how to present that information,” says Jackson.

Jackson’s relationship with and support from her mentor was vital to her educational and professional career. She explains, “My advisers after George were so administrative. George was a real mentor in which he would not only talk with and advise me, but the things that he did became an example of the things that I wanted to pursue. I just can’t speak highly enough of George Meese.” After he encouraged her to apply to Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Jackson ended up attending and received a master’s in Rhetoric and Communication.

Jackson’s experience at Eckerd relates to many current students struggling with a variety of different interests. “If you are undecided, don’t take that as negative,” she says. “If you see it as positive, you can pursue the things that you’re interested in and find ways to combine your various interests.” She encourages the exploration of different areas and career choices to find what you are truly passionate about.

Students at Eckerd could learn quite a bit from Jackson’s experiences and opinions. She reveals that her main goal is to gain satisfaction from all that she pursues in life rather than focusing on becoming rich or specializing in a single specific area. She says, “Finding things you enjoy and being able to nurture those interests is an equally fine way of getting through life.”

news & features

GO Pavilion to provide sports courts, concert venue

By Petra Stevenson Editor-in-Chief

it’s built,” he adds. “It’s designed to respect the environment.”

McKenna also notes that the outdoor nature of the complex, ired of getting rained on at which will not be fenced, could concerts in Hough Quad? make it difficult to control who Sick of getting sunburned playing accesses the pavilion, and when. basketball? If so, here’s some Sabota, however, trusts that, “the good news: Eckerd is set to build Eckerd Community will respect the a new 10,000 square foot athletic GO Pavilion as they do the current complex just west of the tennis student recreation facilities.” courts. The complex, called the The Office of Campus Activities GO Pavilion, will feature courts will oversee the scheduling of GO for intramural, club or casual Pavilion events and activities. games of volleyball, basketball, Students will be free to use the courtesy of Bill McKenna floor hockey, wiffle ball and other space when formal programs are The GO Pavilion will be built just west of the tennis courts, across Avenue of States sports. not taking place, though lights will from Alpha complex and Brown Hall.

And that’s not all. shut off at midnight.

“Versatility is the most exciting Construction will likely begin feature of the GO Pavilion,” says of look like sails—but they’re complicated. They’re May 21, and Eastman encourages Fred Sabota, assistant dean of students for campus expensive, and they have to be anchored.” any students still on campus to attend the groundactivities. The pavilion will also serve as a venue for Basically, the fabric needs to provide shade and breaking ceremony. The pavilion should open in various entertainment programs such as concerts, cover—and also be able to resist hurricane force mid-to-late fall. comedians, festivals and tail gate parties. Special winds. As a result, much time and planning have The costs of development and construction are events related to alumni and family weekend could gone into the pavilion’s design. covered by a generous donation by Trustee George find refuge under the complex’s tensile-style awning, “It [the design] has some real character to it,” says Off and his wife, Tara. The name “GO” in GO Pavilion which will look like a distant, larger cousin of the Bill McKenna, director of planning, development was developed from Off’s initials, and the college is structures outside the cafeteria and pub. and construction for Eckerd College. The tent-like grateful for their significant contribution.

“I think these tensile fabric structures are fabulous,” structure will be completely open underneath, and Part of the parking lot across from Alpha complex says Eckerd College President Donald Eastman. the main support columns will be angled—that is, not will be relocated to North lot to make room for the “They keep the heat off…they’re beautiful, they kind vertical to the ground. “It will look really cool when pavilion.

T

As graduation nears, enterprising seniors create own company

By Ashley Daniels Contributing Writer While most graduating students are scrambling to send out resumes, two enterprising Eckerd seniors, Zev Sohne and Joe Dabah, have already formed their own company. Skyway Promotions is the brainchild of these two business majors who have put the knowledge they’ve gained from their courses at Eckerd to creative and innovative use.

“I’ve always wanted to work for myself and establish my own company,” said

Sohne. “I believe that our company will provide a much needed service for both students and local businesses. I have tried to figure out what I am good at and put those skills to use…Forming a promotion company seems like a natural outgrowth of what I like to do.” SkyWay Promotions became an official company in mid-March and is a legitimate Limited Liability Company (LLC). They help plan parties, weddings and other large events.

SkyWay recognizes the importance of volunteer work. So when Alumna Felicity Keeley came up to Sohne and

explained the service-learning trip to Argentina she went on, they knew the company had to get involved.

“The children there have basically nothing,” Keeley said. “The basketball hoop they do have isn’t functional,

courtesy of Ashley Daniels

and the ball they had was flat.” Sohne and Dabah volunteered the services of Skyway Promotions, and a fundraiser will be held at Push Ultra Lounge May 6, with all proceeds going to the Argentinean children.

SkyWay’s grand opening will be at Bishop Lounge May 12. The theme will be ‘rep yo city,” meaning that everyone should wear shirts from where they are from. They will also have a graduation event at Push May 23 for Eckerd students, parents and families.

Become a fan of SkyWay Promotions, LLC on Facebook so you can be in the know about all of their events.

Friday, April 30, 2010

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news & features

EC Pride attends LGBTQ conference

By Sarah Malhotra Staff Writer EC Pride students recently attended the seventh annual Kennesaw State University LGBTQ (Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Questioning) summit in Atlanta Kennesaw invited Eckerd to make an appearance, and Pride President Nick Arent saw it as the perfect opportunity for the members of EC Pride to get to know one another on a deeper level. Students also learned about leadership and defending gay/lesbian rights.

The ten-hour drive to the conference allowed the club time to reflect on why they wanted to attend the summit. Club members said that they wanted to see what other clubs were doing on their college campuses, and thought it would be a good way to network with them. According to the group, one of the most moving parts of the summit was listening to a high school student from Georgia talk about how he had started anti-bullying legislation to protect LGBT rights in his county. He hoped the rest of the state would throw in their support as well.

Everyone found the workshops and presentations about the history of gay/lesbian rights very informative.

Freshman Kelsey Alheim, for instance, learned that Florida is the only state that doesn’t allow gay people to adopt.

Freshman Lilah Greenberg found the whole experience inspirational. “Hearing about getting past obstacles relating to discrimination on campuses made me want to be more involved in advocating for basic human rights,” she said. Freshman Matt Walker stated that he learned a lot about drag and LGBT rights. “I knew LGBT were oppressed. But I didn’t know how and I didn’t know why,” Walker said.

Most of the participating schools were from Georgia, which made it hard for Eckerd students to fully participate. “It was kind of frustrating, because they kept passing around petitions specific to Georgia that we couldn’t sign because we were from Florida,” Alheim said. “So we couldn’t help even if we wanted to,” Despite that, the students had fun after the conference too. “We went to a drag show and a gay club,” said Freshman Stephanie Hartwell.

Club members agree that they will go to future summits and encourage all students to join EC Pride.

“Anyone can join Pride,” Arent said. “The goal is to create a safe social environment.”

Program for Experienced Learners

Adult learners seek Eckerd education Jeralyn Darling Staff Writer You’ve seen them around campus at night and some weekends. You’ll see about 184 of them at graduation May 23. They’re the Eckerd students who appear, well, slightly more mature than the average 18 to 22-year-old.

Eckerd’s adult college program is called PEL, which is not to be confused with the federal PEL grant program. The acronym could stand for People Excited to Learn or Pretty Eager Learners.

PEL actually refers to the Program for Experienced Learners.

According to Dr. Helen Wallace, PEL’s discipline coordinator of creative writing, “PEL gives returning adult students an opportunity to reinvent themselves.”

The program was established in 1977, and provides a college curriculum for busy adults who are juggling work, children or other family obligations and commitments while meeting all the same graduation requirements as the residential students. PEL students also have the opportunity to travel and study abroad. As of January 2010, PEL has graduated 4,648 students. Currently, there are 934 active PEL students. Despite the current economic troubles, “enrollment has been relatively stable for the past few years,” according to Lin Jorgensen, PEL’s student enrollment manager, So how does the PEL program differ from the residential one? For starters, students must be at least 23 (the average age is closer to 40-something), and have a high school diploma or GED. Sessions are five eight-week terms beginning in August, October, January, March and May/June. The program’s next term begins June 5.

Why are adults returning to school?

For a multitude of reasons. Betcinda Kettels, a second-year PEL student, thinks adults are returning because “it will either open the way for a different job, or allow them to move up in their current field.” Others are going to college for the first time, or for various reasons were unable to complete their bachelor’s degree on the first go round. Some see finishing their degrees as setting an example for their children or meeting a personal goal.

Some students are retired adults looking to further their education or to study something new.

Almost all of the PEL students I interviewed told me that they have a more mature love of learning now compared to when they were younger.

Life, Learning and Vocation (LLV)

courtesy of Lilah Greenburg Members of EC Pride at Kennesaw LGBTQ summit April 10 in Atlanta.

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LLV is the first class that PEL students take.

During LLV, students learn more about themselves, reflect on past experiences and set personal goals.

The class is also an opportunity, according to one PEL student, for the student to reflect on whether he or she is fully ready to return to the rigors of

college academia.

According to PEL student Melissa Anderson, LLV and Quest for Meaning were the most rewarding classes. “Both classes were therapeutic in a way, and I learned so much about life and what is really important. Both classes changed me in a positive way.”

Rewarding experiences Ask PEL students, and they’ll tell you that returning to school turned out to be a rewarding experience. One student exclaimed, “It was the best decision I ever made!”

April Harley, who will be walking at graduation next month, says that learning how to think critically was the most rewarding experience. “It helps to stretch the imagination and allows us to think about our environments (physical and social) on a much grander and scale. The focus becomes much less selfish and opportunities to contribute to a better world for others, instead of just oneself, unfold.”

PEL student Kathleen Hooker said, “The support within the PEL community among the students is unsurpassed. We are all committed to the success of each other and go out of our way to champion our fellow member’s direction.” Many students believe the PEL faculty and staff are the program’s strongest points.

Achievements of PEL students Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE) is a program dedicated to changing the world for the better.

Recently, Eckerd SIFE, led by Dr. Naveen Malhotra and PEL students Dawn Steigner, Karen Epting and Jo-Ann Swenson, and others, received the championship award in its league, and will advance to the National Competition. The team went up against more than 1,500 other schools presenting summaries of their projects to representatives for more than 300 Fortune 500 companies.

Nancy Buscher, a current PEL student, has completed three picture books — her first recently published. Her second book will be published this summer and she hopes to publish a third by the end of the year.

Joseph Jennings O’Brien wrote and directed “Endure,” a movie starring Tom Arnold and Judd Nelson, and featured in the Sarasota Film Festival.

Alumna Betsy Wickham and her family produced and starred in the movie, “Joel and Julie,” which was also featured at the Sarasota Film Festival.

Additionally, ten PEL students are selected every year to participate in the PEL Honors Program.

For the past three years, the group has given presentations at the Southern Regional Honors Conference.

“All of our students who graduate from PEL,” said Wallace, “have achieved something amazing.

They’ve pushed themselves to develop skills that will serve them (and us) well in the world, and they’ve done it, often, while juggling full-time jobs and families.”

news & features

What exactly is Palmetto Productions?

They manage the largest budget of any club on campus. They throw parties and host poetry readings and concerts. They bring in comedians, hypnotists and mentalists. But who are they?

By Allie Solan Contributing Writer

R

ecently, I sat down with three Palmetto Productions board members and asked them, in their own words, to describe exactly what Palmetto is and does. Director of Traditional Events, Senior Abigail Gustafson, explained, “We are an organization that creates events that the students want to see happen and enjoy in their spare time.”

Director of Palmetto, Senior Stacey Burke adds, “We try to appeal to all demographics on campus, by giving the students options and letting them choose what they want to see happen on campus.” On average, Palmetto holds five events a month, ranging anywhere from poetry readings in the Pub, to bigger events such as Kappa Karnival.

Gustafson went on to clear up the confusion that the student body seems to have with Palmetto and ECOS. For starters, they are two separate entities, but linked. “The best way to explain our relationship with ECOS is to think of it as a family,” said Gustafson.

“ECOS is like the parents – they give us our budget and look over us to see that we don’t put on similar events...Palmetto, as well as all of the other clubs on campus, is one of their children.”

When asked if they think that the EC student body knows exactly who they are and what they do, Gustafson replied, “In years past, I do not think that many students knew what Palmetto was, but this year, yes. We have done a lot better job putting ourselves out there and letting the students know what we do. We really care about what the students want to see on their campus, so we always encourage the students to e-mail us any suggestions.” She

continued, “Also, most recently for spring ball, we had the DJ set up a Web site where students can request songs so they can hear what they want at their Ball. So far it has been a success.”

Advertising is the number one way Palmetto promotes itself. Ranging from a popular Facebook account, to flyers, weekly e-mails and the infamous Event Tonight T-shirts, Palmetto events are well publicized.

One thing many students want to know is how much money is allocated to Palmetto for all these events. Burke explained the budget and its allocation.

“Palmetto has a budget of $105,000 from ECOS,” she said. “Like every other organization on campus, we have to re-apply for it every year. When we get this number, all of the directors within Palmetto sit down and break up the budget. It gets broken up among the nine different categories within Palmetto.”

Such events include traditional events, cultural events and concerts. Burke explained, “They each get their share, and this gives them an outline of how much they have to spend for the year, and they can start planning accordingly. The two categories that receive most of the budget are concerts directors and traditional events, because they need to fund the bigger events—which include the spring ball and the national concert, which is normally done in the spring.”

When asked if they were aware that there are some students who are unhappy with their events and find their budget unfair, Burke acknowledged their concerns. “The first thing students notice is our total budget and are shocked by how large it is. However,

what EC students don’t realize is that our budget is divided among many different categories in order to touch as many demographics on campus as possible.”

She continued, “They see the budget amount and think that we should spend it all on one big thing, like a well known artist for our national concert. But what they don’t understand how unrealistic that is because then we wouldn’t be able to do other events throughout the year.”

Director of Comedy and Novelty Jamie Lowry said it best: “We try to make everyone happy by having diverse events.” The directors went on to say that people do not realize how much time and preparation goes into putting on these events.

Gustafson and Burke both explained that the national conference that they attend every year, the National Association for Campus Activities, is where they do a great deal of their planning for the year. At this conference, there are showcases from different bands, public speakers, comedians, and national acts that are there to grab the attention of these organizations for an invitation to perform at these universities.

“When we went to NACA this past October,” said Burke, “we found our comedian who came and performed in March. We also started to get ideas and budgets for possible bands for Springtopia. We try to get as much booking done there as possible because these artists get booked quickly.”

Burke added that events taking place during the week at the Pub, or on the weekends in Fox Hall, tend to be planned two weeks in advance.

Burke, who will be graduating this May, hopes that the initial goal of expanding horizons and opening new doors for the future directors stays intact.

If you are interested in joining the Palmetto crew, admission for the 2010-2011 year is currently in progress. Just stop by the office in Brown Hall, next door to the coffee house, and ask how to get involved.

“The best way to explain our relationship with ECOS is to think of it as a family. ECOS is like the parents —they give us our budget and look over us to see that we don’t put on similar events...

Palmetto, as well as all of the other clubs on campus, is one of their children.”

—Abigail Gustafson

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news & features

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Friday, April 30, 2010

news & features A letter from President Eastman...

Betty Stewart selected as new dean of faculty When I met with the search committee for the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of Faculty, so ably led for the past ten months, by Professor Mark Davis, to receive its observations about the three finalists after their campus interviews, the student member of the committee, Katherine Pfeiffer, a Ford scholar, said simply, “When Dr. Betty Stewart’s interview with the student group was over, we all applauded.” As this comment illustrates, Betty Stewart connects with and excites students. Even in the most demanding of disciplines, inorganic chemistry, Betty Stewart attracts students to the world of inquiry and discovery. She has won, at our sister institution, Austin College, and at Midwestern State, the public liberal arts college of Texas, numerous commendations for her teaching.

Stewart was the clear choice of faculty, staff and trustees. Faculty reported their enthusiasm for her academic record, her authenticity, and her thoughtful manner, and heartily endorsed her as the next dean. Not unlike, I suspect, the young Lloyd Chapin, Dr. Stewart is modest, slightly shy (until she gets going), a good listener, insightful, and committed to the highest academic standards.

The search committee, our search consultant,

Ted Marchese, and I conducted their support and participation in the numerous telephone interviews search. Dr. Stewart has enthusiastically with many of Dr. Stewart’s colaccepted the position and is eager to beleagues. The profile those refergin work on July 1, 2010. Dr. Stewart is ences sketched was of a woman aware of how important the Dean of the who has accomplished a great Faculty post is to our community and deal already as a teacher, sciento its future. She is aware of how high tist, researcher, and administraDean Chapin has set the bar and how tor, and who has extraordinary much productivity we have come to expotential to provide academic pect from the Office of the Dean of Facleadership for an accomplished ulty. She is up to the challenge. and ambitious liberal arts college Dr. Stewart will need our help, our like ours. support, and our best wishes as she sets Much as I wince every day at new directions for an office that has been the prospect of working without headed by the same person for three deLloyd Chapin at my right hand courtesy of Midwestern State cades. I am confident the Eckerd College (actually, as my right hand), I am University community will provide that encourageextremely excited by the prosment and good will. pect of working with Dr. Betty Thank you for participating in this Stewart. I know many of you are search, for working to make it a success, and for supas well. porting me as I looked for a person to help lead EckThis morning, I met with our Board of Trustees, erd College for years to come. It has been, I think, a which has endorsed my selection of Dr. Stewart as terrific community effort.

I am grateful to you, and I Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of am pleased and excited for our future.

Faculty. I expressed my gratitude to the Board for

St. Petersburg Shakespeare Company partners with EC The St. Petersburg Shakespeare Company is proud to announce its new partnership with Eckerd College. As part of the partnership, Eckerd College will host SPSC’s inaugural production, and SPSC will be offering acting and technical internships to Eckerd College students.

Richard Miller, president and artistic director of SPSC, says of the partnership, “As St. Pete Shakes grows, we want to make a contribution to education as well as the arts. Our partnership with Eckerd College opens that door. We are excited to provide an environment for Eckerd’s theaterstudents to gain off-campus experience and develop contacts, and we foresee great things arising from this arrangement.”

SPSC will hold its inaugural production of Hamlet at Eckerd College’s Bininger Theater. Show dates will be at 8 p.m July 29 – 31, August 5–8, August 12–14 and August 1 and 15 at 2 p.m.

Auditions for Hamlet will be held from 7-10 p.m. May 3 and May 4 at Azalea Park Recreation Center, 1400 72nd Street North.

Needed are 12 to 15 men and 4 to 6 women, ages 18 and up including at least two men and one woman who can convincingly play an age range of 40 to 60. Only non-equity members will be considered at this time. Stage combat experience is a plus, as is a willingness to understudy and/or play multiple roles. No prior experience with Shakespeare is necessary, but it is preferred.

Cast and crew should not anticipate financial compensation for this production.

Those auditioning should prepare a one-to-two-minute Shakespearean monologue (comic or dramatic) and bring a headshot and resume.

For more information, contact, Katie Mulford, director of marketing at kmulford@stpeteshakes.org or (203) 520-7449.

The Current is saddened to learn of the passing of Stephen Glenn McCool, who attended his first semester at Eckerd fall 2009. The following eulogy was read by the pastor at his funeral in Louisville, Ky. Glenn experienced joy. Glenn channeled that spirit within. That spirit gave flight to his music and writing and gave him an inner wisdom, a peace and a gentleness.

Even as a young child, Glenn saw the world through a deeper lens. He carried the eyes of an old soul. He would not leap into action or respond from the top of his head, but he would take life in, absorb everything in the room, he would hear the words.

I imagine this was part of what made his friendships so meaningful. It is not easy to find compassionate listeners who can set aside their own ego needs, who can let the silence be.

Please hold on to those moments when light shone through Glenn into your life. Remember those 18 wonderful years of life. Carry his warmth, his charm, his compassion, his sensitivity and wisdom with you.

Friday, April 30, 2010

9

viewpoints

“Amusing “If you want to do sex, you’re going to have to work extra hard.”

—A creative writing professor on writing poems about sex.

“I do have about six machetes at home.”

—An anthropology professor on proper archaeological tools.

“If you want the worst water around, drink from the water fountains.”

—A maintenance worker on EC’s water fountains.

“You want to look nice for your presentations. That doesn’t mean you need to wear a cocktail dress, but maybe some shoes.”

—A communications professor on student presentations.

“I’ve never tried the stuff—I’m waiting for them to legalize it and put it in brownies.”

—A creative writing professor on marijuana.

Musings” 10

Friday, April 30, 2010

EDITORIALS

A last hurrah from two graduating editors

Saying goodbye

By Meagan Bemis Managing Editor Recently, I have tried to count how many times over the last four years I’ve said, “I am gonna’ quit the newspaper!” or something of that nature. The number is higher than you might guess, but still I remained tried and true to the Eckerd College FishWrapper... I mean, Thimblerig… oh wait, no, Triton? Oh! Right! The Eckerd College Current.

This old newspaper might have undergone a few facelifts and remodels, but doggonit, I love her.

She’s treated me fairly well, and given me more experience, knowledge and ability than I could ask of anyone… uh, anything. Which is why I am glad I never followed through with my threats to leave the paper. As C.S. Lewis said, “Experience: that most brutal of teachers. But you learn, my God do you learn.”

Although at times I thought that this newspaper was both the bane of my existence and a godsend, I have never been confused about the benefits I was receiving because of my time with the newspaper.

I gained internships with the Tampa Tribune, Tampa Bay’s 10, Skirt! Magazine and Creative Loafing, among others.

I’ve created invaluable friendships and professional relationships. I have learned how to lead and how to take direction. But, most of

By Catee Baugh Viewpoints Editor This is the last column I’ll ever write for The Current.

It’s bizarre sitting here, knowing that and trying to figure out what to say. I look back and see the phases through which I’ve written. I started out with international politics and issues, moved to just being angry about issues, and now have actually attempted to throw support behind people.

I realize that my writing voice is bitter, snarky and cynical. But that isn’t how I want to say goodbye.

I once questioned if Eckerd College was losing its soul, in response to the vandalism that happened last year. This year, Eckerd, my faith has been renewed.

It was renewed when Crisis Kitchen happened

all, I have learned that team work is the most important part of a well-oiled machine. My final goal is to someday have a magazine of my own and I am that much closer because of my work on the newspaper.

It pains me to write my final sayonara to the Eckerd College community as managing editor, former editor-in-chief and that girl with all the hats. I hope that I have left some sort of mark on the Eckerd College timeline for future journalism students and writers of all kinds.

I would really like to thank all of those with whom I worked so closely over the years for making those late nights more bearable. I also would like to thank the Eckerd College community for its support and feedback over the years – you all have truly contributed to my growth as a leader, editor and writer.

Thank you to the Eckerd faculty who gave up precious time for interviews with The Current. You all helped to expand the journalistic knowledge of a group of students hungry for stories. Thank you, Dean Annarelli, President Eastman, and all of those who continued to support the paper even in our hardest times and helped to dig us out of a hole that seemed bottomless.

I would especially like to thank the two faculty advisers with whom I worked closely- Danita Berg and Tracy Crow. The two of you have inspired me to believe that women no longer live under a glass ceiling and that I really can do whatever I aspire.

Thank you for believing in me through all of the parties, problems and parodies.

in response to the Haitian earthquake. It was renewed by dinners served to raise money for Kenya. It was renewed by people actually opening up and talking about issues.

Eckerd. Just saying the name of this school reminds me how much I’ll miss it.

So when I leave, as I will in about four weeks, remember what makes us Eckerd.

It’s the respect we have for each other’s choices.

It’s the commitment to helping people both near and far. It’s the desire to learn more about what the other disciplines are doing. It’s the lack of competition in academics.

It’s all of us, on the first warm day, lying on Kappa Field and South Beach, sunning, playing Frisbee or studying.

This is us, Eckerd. This is what we aspire to be.

Laid-back yet passionate. Loving what we study but interested in other things. We work hard. We play hard. We are anything but one-dimensional.

So, Eckerd, after I leave, keep on keeping on.

And more importantly, keep on being Eckerd.

viewpoints

EDITORIAL

When your friends aren’t real Ever get a Facebook friend request from someone you don’t know? Ever wonder how they found you? Ever wonder if they’re...fake?

By Dexter Howard Contributing Writer

I

met my ex-friend Ashley Sinclair on the Internet. Ashley is probably a spy. She’s definitely not a real person.

Ashley Sinclair is a fake Facebook profile, one of the roughly 40 percent of all profiles that don’t correspond to a real user, according to a 2008 article on PC1News.com. Yet her lack of physical existence did not stop her from suggesting that we get coffee together sometime.

The photo of a blond woman wearing oversized sunglasses requested my Facebook friendship back in February. I accepted, despite no recollection of ever meeting an Ashley Sinclair. I could now access the entirety of her profile, which was barren of any personal details, photographs or posts. I sent her a message asking how she knew me. I received the following response, which confused the hell out of me: “Hi, I added you because you looked familiar, but once I looked at your page I knew I was wrong.. but you seem like a good guy so I’ll introduce myself :) Im quirky, funny, and always down to have a good time.. I just moved here about 3 months ago from a little town in Idaho for work and like it here so far!

Take a look at my profile.. if you want to Id love to meet sometime for coffee. Anyway.. I am trying to attach more pics of myself but its giving me some stupid error! If you send me your e-mail address I can send my photos to you that way. Hope to hear from you soon!”

I called bulls*** by the end of the first sentence— my profile picture is too obscured to look familiar as anything whatsoever. And who introduces themselves to a perfect stranger as “quirky, funny, and always down to have a good time,” then offers to email pictures of herself to you? Either I am completely

was that she was gathering information for some sort of self-evolving computer program intent on learning patterns of trust between people. A program that could successfully learn to negotiate our inherent skepticisms and eventually pass the Turing test for artificial intelligence (the test, proposed by computing pioneer Alan Turing in 1950, holds that a computer is artificially intelligent once a human cannot distinguish if they are instant messaging another human or the machine).

I began asking friends if they had received friend requests from any suspicious characters. Sure enough, every one of them had. Most viewed the whole situation with amused bewilderment. photo courtesy of Wikicommons One friend showed me a request by one Rosita Marivel, supposedly of the Eckerd College class of 2012. Rosita and my missing out on the fruits of the Internet age, or this friend shared over thirty common acquaintances at Ashley Sinclair is some sort of digital spy.

Eckerd, but no one knows who she is.

My mind raced. What information she might be If you are reading this, Rosita, head down to the after? Did she report to some rogue marketer who would stop at nothing to learn my favorite television registrar’s office immediately; they have no record of your existence. show?

The truth behind these fake profiles is probably After a few minutes on Google, I found a helpful less exotic, but no less baffling, than the espionage article on HuffingtonPost.com. It reported that law enforcement agencies now successfully use social scenario I have laid down. It’s most likely a work of networking sites to track suspects and apprehend spammers—those who drag the high-flying promise criminals. Another item on that site linked to an article of internet-communication down to the level of on McClatchyDC.com called, “Feds think outside Viagra offers and run-of-the-mill “free iPod” scams. the box to plug intelligence gaps” which inflamed It’s the same old story of spam infecting computers my suspicion to full blown paranoia. Apparently, just to send out more spam. the CIA now spends billions of dollars researching But the ordinariness of this petty malware points to how people interact in virtual environments like an extraordinary feature of our times: humanshave Facebook and even World of Warcraft. created globe-spanning networks of copper wires, Eureka! I thought. Ashley Sinclair is a digital agent optical cables, and radio-wave transmissions—all of our government’s security apparatus, spawned by coupled to an explosively-evolving language of an artificial intelligence program to study human electrons—in some vast attempt to trick each other social networks. Why else would she try to trick into thinking that a new friend—or a larger erection— me into a coffee date? The only logical explanation is only one click away.

Friday, April 30, 2010

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viewpoints EDITORIAL

Experiencing Morocco Reflections on spring break service-learning

By Sarah Katherine Yost Staff Writer

F

or ten days, I lived and breathed Morocco.

Wake up at eight or nine o’clock for breakfast. After breakfast, a couple of us were assigned to do the dishes while the rest started the 5-6 hours of service work. Usually, this consisted of digging out the side of a mountain with pick axes, shovels and a rake to create a garden.

Lunch at two o’clock, rest until four, then back to work. On the first couple of days, three students, accompanied by two Berber men, were allowed to go into the town for a few hours. At six o’clock or so a snack was provided, then we rested before dinner at nine. In the late afternoon, we would sit and talk, go for walks in the villages or down to the rushing riverbed. One day, we even helped to herd sheep; another day we climbed a mountain. The students on our trip became a family, our personalities meshing together with ease.

Lukas Kucinski, Jocelyn Angel, Jake Huzenis, Layla Verbance, Carlos Tigreros, Margaret Thompson, Laura Sawamura, Joe Conrad, Brett Thompson, Anjali Pati, Kristen Letourpenous, me and Andrea Solazzo, our group leader, all worked hard together.

We stayed in the Atlas Mountains in a small village at the Berber Culture Center. From the house, I could see the white tips of mountain peaks. I could see the Cacti form the shape of a flowing river outlined in the rocky hills. I saw little boys herd sheep down past the Center on the dusty road, yelling and kicking up rocks as they went.

Every morning, I woke to the sound of a rooster’s crow, and the aroma of fresh-baked bread lured me out of bed. In the early morning, mist coated the hills. One night, I watched the full moon rise above the distant mountain in the midst of neighboring clusters of stars. The moon was greeted by domestic and stray dogs; their howls sent chills down my spine. We stood on the roof, looking up. Every so often, someone would gasp at the glimpse of a shooting star.

During my stay, I carried a journal to record my days spent under the Moroccan sky.

photos by Sarah Yost 12

Friday, April 30, 2010

A day trip to Essaouira, on the Moroccan coast.

Sunday March 28, 2010 Driving into Marrakesh, at first I think that my expectations of a culture shock are not going to happen. Then we enter the dirty city. I see abandoned homes, children running barefoot through the streets and tired, leather-skinned people wandering in and out of shops.

The town is not a pretty sight and yet it’s what I wanted to see. Almost all my first expectations are met.

We stop at a rest stop about an hour into our drive to the Berber village where we are going to stay. Lush with green, lined with orange trees. There is a patio with tables and chairs and inside a little store is set up. A woman is making fresh crepes outside the doorway. We stop to go to the bathroom, which is an experience to say the least.

You wouldn’t believe the number of flies that swarm your face as soon as you walk into the room. A young boy sits at a small table in the corner with a clear box and three stale rolls of pink toilet paper on top. You take a roll. As you walk into the room full of nicely tiled stalls, an unexpected foul wave of air hits your nostrils. You don’t dare sit all the way down on the toilet, and you have to hold your breath not to gag. When you finish, you return the roll to the little table and you tip the boy.

At the rest stop, I am very uncomfortable because of my dirty clothes—the same ones since Friday. They feel heavy with plane stench, and my skin is crawling under my button-down shirt. The hot sun beats down on my neck, and it

doesn’t help the nausea from the van ride. We hadn’t eaten anything or really slept for 48 hours. Layla instructs me to chew on some rosemary she found behind the building in a small garden in order to make me feel better. I chew on it and feel the nausea lifting. We pile back into the van, back to the twisting route. I beg that I keep my stomach settled.

Monday March 29, 2010 First day of work and I feel great.

Mohamed, the owner of the Berber Cultural Center, knocks on my door at seven o’clock. I wake up to answer the door, and my glasses are off so I can’t see a thing. No one’s at the door and I think, did I imagine the knock? Then I see a blurry Mohamed figure and I ask him, “Who woke me up?” After a long hesitation he tells me he did. I say “oh” in confusion because last night Lukas told me that he was going to wake me up to go running. Mohamed confesses that he was scared and thought I was mad at him -- that’s why he hesitated to tell me he woke me. We laugh at the absurdity of the situation.

Mohamed continues his mission to wake Brett, Carlos and Joe so I go get ready for the run. Lhoussaine and Khalid lead us in a slow jog and then we pick it up, the boys are ahead and Joe and I bring up the rear. The view is stunning.

The mountains are like no mountains I have ever seen. They are like large dust mounds, and the grass freckles the dry layer of rocks. The dirt road is almost all rock with See MOROCCO on PAGE 13

viewpoints MOROCCO continued from Page 12 endless trash lining on the side. The scenery is wonderful but hard to watch when you are trying not to break an ankle on the uneven path. Here and there animal waste is left in the street so you need to dodge that as well.

We pass several donkeys and locals.

One donkey is being whipped as we jog past it. Dogs roam the countryside, strays or pets, who knows? Their fur is dry, matted and mangy. Their eyes are bloodshot and their tongues look like sandpaper hanging out of their mouths.

We end up walking because Joe runs out of breath, but it’s okay because now we can appreciate the view. We get back and eat a breakfast of flat bread with sweet apricot jelly, vegan butter, a grain like soup kind of like cream of wheat, instant coffee, tea, and cake bread. Lukas and I offer to do the dishes and we end up talking about our significant others the whole time.

The works starts and it is dig, dig, dig, pickaxe, and dig some more, then rake. I know as I pummel my axe into the hard rocky surface that I am going to feel this tomorrow. The work is satisfying in a strange way. Ever pickaxed? Well, you feel powerful, and utterly invincible. I think I can dig up

the whole mountain if I keep at it long enough. The garden is almost ready; it is hot, dry and wonderful. I am going to be so tan after this trip. We take a tea break and gather around the shady side of the house. We sit and drink tea, talking and getting to know one another. I sit next to Lhoussaine and he tells me the Berber name for tea.

I forget it in a second; the language is difficult to keep on your tongue. It slips away as soon as you speak it.

Lhoussaine is 23 years old, and we talk for the entire tea break, joking and clowning around. Omar, a friend of Mohamed’s who agreed to help with the center while we visit, grabs an empty bucket and immediately begins to drum on it. Soon, other Berber friends of Mohamed, Mustafa and Khalid among them gather around Omar and start to sing. They pull us into a circle and we all start singing and clapping in Berber. I feel like I’m in a “National Geographic” documentary of cultural life. I also feel a part of a family as I sing, laugh, and clap off beat. My smile never leaves my face.

Friday evening April 2, 2010

I climb a Moroccan mountain and sit on the edge of the world with Lukas.

We see for miles. The sun blisters, our faces burn and our sweat evaporates in

the dry altitude. The climb up is tough; the mountain is steep and dangerous.

If you lean back a little too far you are sure to fall into the depths of sharp rocks jutting out on the side. Each step is a step of faith—faith the rock under your foot won’t slide, faith that your shoes have good traction and faith that you can make it up without looking down.

We sit in the highest peak. We go farther than any of our classmates, and we stop to take in the view. This is it, I think to myself, the moment I have been waiting for. My thoughts scream, “You’re in Morocco!”

I think about last year and where I was at this exact time. I think about what I did on April 2, 2009. I think about how far I’ve come since then. I am full of empowerment.

Twenty minutes or so roll by, and oh no, now it’s time to hike down. I did not think about that. We go slow and steady, shuffling down the mountain in pairs. Every few moments the crumbling rocks cause my feet to slip, and I slide down the mountain, almost falling off. Lukas catches me just in time. He saves me dozens of times as we work our way down the deathly slope. One near death experience after another. A wrong step on some stones and I go down, shrieking, and panic rises in my throat.

**** My time in Morocco is still fresh in my mind. I know that the service work on the garden made an impression.

Maybe the plants will die but the friendships we made there will not.

We were more than visitors to these people: we became family.

Mohamed, Lhoussaine, Mustafa, Omar, and Khalid became family. As did the women—Mohamed’s wife, Melaka, a girl from the neighboring village and little Fatimah, an 8-year old who could peel potatoes better than I could.

They were all enchanting and they showed us a lifestyle of simplicity and beauty. I believe my time was well spent in that small Berber village next to the Atlas Mountains. I hope that one day I will go back and be welcomed as family once more.

“I’m going abroad for a springinto-summer class.”

—Jordan Barker, sophomore (left)

PerspECtives

“Internship.”

—Lee Abraham, junior

Q: What are your plans for the summer?

“I will be sleeping and scrounging for sustenance.”

—Gena Goodman, senior (right)

“Well, we are seniors, so living in a box, basically. Going home, trying to get some temp work, but I have a job lined up for the fall.”

—Kelly O’Connor, senior (left)

Lukas grabs me, but a second later he slips and I snatch him by the torso right before his head hits a rock. I will never forget my nervous laughter nor the sweat of our hands as we guide each other down the mountain, holding our existence in one another’s hands. It is nerve-wracking and my body shakes a little. I feel giddy and excitable. There is something frighteningly exhilarating about taking such risks.

“I’m doing an internship as well.”

—Rebecca Bowers, freshman (right)

“Getting a job.”

—Sam McBride, freshman (right)

“Going to Ireland, working and having a blast.”

—Claire O’Connell-Brala, freshman (above)

“Yeah. Job.” —Kelsey Alheim, freshman (left)

By Erin Linebarger Photo Editor Friday, April 30, 2010

13

arts & entertainment

Premeditated murder?

Sketch comedy is coming, and it aims to kill

By Laurel Ormiston News Editor

Demetri Martin” or “Late Night with Jimmy Fallon,” you’re seen sketch comedy.

The word “sketch” in the comic universe denotes a short written scene, usually under Have you ever seen something so hysterical ten minutes. This format allows writers to that you developed a “fit of the giggles?” explore a key idea in short clips, monologues Laughed so hard you cried? So hard you…died? and ensemble scenes. “It’s a very unique form While watching an episode of “The Goodies,” of theatre that has its own set of rules,” said the English bricklayer Alex Mitchell laughed for 25 club’s theater faculty sponsor, Professor Gavin minutes at a scene which featured a Scotsman, Hawk. “I’m excited about the formation of this complete with kilt, battling a black pudding club, and to see where it goes,” he added. with his bagpipes. In the industry, a good joke What makes sketch comedy different from “kills” if it causes laughter. But March 24, 1975, “improv” is that everything is pre-planned. that simple sketch left Mitchell literally dead Unlike watching a performance by Another on his sofa, the “Kung Fu Kapers” episode Man’s Trash, the sketch comedy club will still playing in the background. Turns out feature jokes are written in advance: punch the prolonged laughter triggered a fatal heart lines and accents pre-planned, with comedians attack. (Mitchell’s widow politely wrote to assigned specific lines. Writers and actors “The Goodies” to thank them for making her who come from a sketch comedy background husband’s last moments pleasant ones.) include Mel Brooks, Tina Fey, Jane Lynch and “The Goodies” was based on a form of Amanda Bynes. entertainment called sketch comedy. So far, Miskin says the club is something he planned Eckerd has only been plagued by the dangers of to bring to Eckerd since last semester. “It’ll laughing too hard at improv comedy, performed be a lot of fun,” he predicts with confidence. by the members of Another Man’s Trash. But Miskin’s experience with sketch comedy comes look out Eckerd: Fall 2010, the deadly sketch from his life before Eckerd in Westchester, comedy is heading to EC in the form of a newly New York. There, he was able to travel and chartered club. perform in clubs in New York City. His personal “It’s a chance for students to create their own experience, combined with a base of students comedy and to learn different forms of sketch,” currently enrolled in Hawk’s sketch comedy says founder Alex Miskin, a freshman. And the class, lets Miskin plan for a great start next good news is, you might already be familiar year. Already, he estimates there are 20-30 with it. If you watch “Saturday Night Live,” potential members who have contacted him and “Chappelle’s Show,” “Important Things with expressed an interest in the club. “[By the spring] I hope to have a strong troupe,” said Miskin of the club’s immediate future.

So who should join?

Anyone with a funny bone. There are no auditions: just bring your creativity and a willingness to play.

But if you’re nervous, Miskin recommends that over the summer you write down ideas.

“Out of 500 ideas, we’ll get maybe two skits,” Miskin said.

So the more variety the club has to choose from, the better. photo by Laurel Ormiston What to write down?

Basically, anything Eckerd College students gather outside a display for Saturday that forces you to view Night Live during their 2010 Winter Term trip to New York something from a new City. From left: Mille Chapman, Dustin Geisler, Casey Malone, perspective.

Elly Glavich and Miho Fukuhiro.

16

Friday, April 30, 2010

Sketch comedy basics There are three basic types of sketch scenes: character, situation and premise. They can stand alone, or be combined however you choose.

Character sketch: the scene is an excuse to flaunt an eccentric character to your audience. Such a character might be addicted to quoting Madonna or speaking in strange accents.

Situation-based sketch: here, the humor comes from the location or event, such as a drag show or the WalMart on 34th Street South.

Premise-based sketch: this starts with one central idea- as simple as one sentence- and goes from there.

An example from SNL that aired on April 10 was the “Sarah Palin T.V. Network.” You can guess how that idea generated five minutes of laughs. (And if not, you can look it up on Hulu).

Now, do it yourself Try writing comedy yourself this summer by following a few key principles. The list below was inspired by the book, “The Everything Guide to Comedy Writing” by Mike Bent.

1. Question everything. Often, humor comes out of truth. And that truth can come from looking at something from an entirely unfamiliar perspective.

What if Web Mail was run by evil gremlins? If the Internet were an actual entity?

2. Make lists. Almost everything around you can be categorized into like objects. You can then use your list to look at things from a different perspective.

What if the objects under your bed were all you had to barter for your freedom with in a hostage situation?

Could you use some of them as weapons? Or would some of them be gross enough to scare an attacker away? Opposites and like objects can give your brain a chance to view things from a fresh perspective.

3. Think about the premise. If this scene character driven? Situation driven? Premise driven?

4. Make 3D characters. A doorman who comes onstage only to provide a single line of dialogue isn’t 3D. A doorman who says “good day,” while sneaking photos of the people entering the elevator, is. Make a list of character traits, and surprising new possibilities may turn up.

5. Working with a friend? Collaboration can yield great results. Be sure to have an open policy about idea generating: in groups such as SNL, writers go through one round where every idea is accepted, without criticism, before the pruning and shaping begins.

6. Take advantage of being a student. Institutions such as Second City in Chicago and Upright Citizens Brigade in New York often offer summer classes to students. Check them out over summer break, to relieve the stress of that internship. Or being with your parents 24/7.

arts & entertainment

Fish and fun in Belize on spring break

By Sarah Karpf Contributing Writer Some people may enjoy exclusive resorts, being pampered at elegant spas and eating exquisite food while on vacation. I, on the other hand, had the pleasure of traveling to San Pedro, Belize, the only English speaking country in Central America, for my spring break with two friends, Clint Davis (’11) and Graham Ellison (’11), where we lived on the excluded island of Ambergris Caye, experienced the local culture, and where I lived the life of a fisherman.

Belizean Culture is extremely laid back and relaxed. The locals, who speak Spanish, English and a form of Creole, are generous and accepting of the tourists. The locals love the tourists because they help fuel the Island’s economy. You do not have to worry about traffic while enjoying your time on this majestic island because all of the locals and visitors drive gas-powered golf carts.

You cannot go to San Pedro without trying their famous Belizean eggs, “huevos rancheros” (eggs served Western style on corn tortillas), or the favorite local special, “meat pies” (small pies filled with a sloppy joe-like meat filling). Not only does Belize have delicious food, it’s famous for its unique rums. “Viper rum,” one of the island’s favorites, has a real viper snake waiting at the bottom of the bottle.

A little treat for later.

One of the favorite bars and “hang outs” is the “chicken drop,” a local bar on the beach where you can enjoy a wide variety of alcohol and bet on

chickens. The chickens are placed in a wooden coop with numbers drawn on the floor. An enthusiastic tourist can bet money on a specific number and wherever the chicken poops, you either walk away with the satisfaction of winning or solely with the fulfillment of participating in something quite strange but yet very amusing.

Davis has been traveling with his family to San Pedro on the island of Ambergris Caye for the past 15 years to enjoy the incredible snorkeling, diving and fishing scene. Davis and Graham, avid fishermen, have been fishing since before they can remember. One of Davis’ favorite memories was when he was 8. “I caught a 6-foot barracuda and my dad had to old me in the boat while I reeled it in. It was probably one of the craziest fish I have ever caught.”

Davis enjoys making his own flies out of rabbit, dear, turkey and chicken hair and feathers. He explains, “Certain colors and shapes attract specific fish.

The flies emulate shrimp, minnows and small crabs.” Davis shares his favorite part of Belize. “My favorite part is fly fishing on the crystal clear water and on the shallow grass flats searching for bonefish, permit and tarpon.”

The flats of Belize attract worldclass anglers from all over the world in attempts to catch the grand slam.

Although I stuck to the classic form of fishing, I learned a great deal about flyfishing. Davis explains, “When you are fly-fishing you use a repetitive casting motion utilizing the height of the line to present the fly to a fish. When you are fishing regularly, you manipulate the weight of the lure for your advantage.”

Graham has been traveling to Belize photos courtesy of Sarah Karpf for the past three years. He shares his Left: Junior Clint Davis shows off a snook. most enjoyable moment while fishing. Above: Junior Graham Ellison holds a bonefish.

“There is nothing more exciting than seeing a 3-foot tarpon jumping out of we swam with several large manta rays and where I the water in attempts to get away.” adventurously touched a 6-foot nurse shark.

Belize has some of the greatest fishing in the Although we had the privilege of experiencing the world for tarpon and bonefish. Graham, who is incredible barrier reef, Davis, who is also studying studying marine biology, explains his concerns for marine biology, is concerned that the growing Belize. “I’m concerned the island is going to be too number of tourists is eroding the local environment. crowded in the near future because of the developing He explains, “The number of people snorkeling and condominiums and growing popularity of the island. diving has had a negative impact on the reef’s health The increasing tourism is harmful and will affect the and diversity.” quality of fishing.”

San Pedro on Ambergris Caye is a majestic place While in Belize, we went snorkeling on the second filled with friendly locals, delicious foods, colorful largest barrier reef with Ecologic Divers. Our tour culture and incredible fishing and snorkeling. I guide, Alex, a very friendly and rotund local, took would recommend traveling to Belize if you are us snorkeling at “hol chan,” a special spot where looking to escape from the real world and in search we saw tons of tropical fish, a massive loggerhead of a little oasis. Davis’ favorite Belizean saying is, sea turtle and an enormous moray eel feeding off a “San Pedro is a small drinking town, with a slight conch shell. Next, we went to “shark ray alley” where fishing problem.”

Friday, April 30, 2010

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arts & entertainment

Events

April 30—May 13

Friday 30 7 p.m.

Spring Ball (Tradewinds Resort)

8 p.m.

“Working” the musical (Bininger Theater) *$1 admission for EC students w/ student ID

7 7 p.m.

Intl. Cinema Series- “Ajami” (Miller Aud.) 8 p.m.

“At Home at The Zoo”- Senior Company Production (Studio Theater) 9 p.m.

Kappa Karnival (South Field) 18

Friday, April 30, 2010

Saturday

Sunday

Monday

1

2

3

10 p.m. - 3 a.m.

Crisis Kitchen

2 p.m.

“Working” the musical (Bininger Theater)

8 p.m.

“Working” the musical (Bininger Theater) 11 p.m.

Late Night Bowling (Off Campus)

2 p.m.

Chorus Angelorum in Concert (Wireman Chapel)

Tuesday

8 p.m.

“At Home at The Zoo”- Senior Company Production (Studio Theater) 8 p.m.

BS Ballet (Hough Quad) 9 p.m.

Underwear Party (Triton’s Pub)

9

6 p.m.

Givers Banquet (Fox Hall)

2 p.m.

“At Home at The Zoo”- Senior Company Production (Studio Theater)

7 p.m. Dance Team Showcase (Miller Aud.) 8 p.m.

AAS 70’s Roller Skating Night (Off Campus)

8 p.m.

“At Home at The Zoo”- Senior Company Production (Studio Theater)

13

12

11

10

2 p.m.

Eckerd Stock (South Beach)

7 p.m.

Mr. Triton Competition (Fox Hall)

6

3 p.m.

Sophomore Show Gallery Talk (Elliott Gallery)

Sophomore Show Exhibiiton May 2-7 Gallery Hours 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Mon-Fri (Elliott Gallery)

Thursday

5

4

8 p.m.

AAS Movie Night at the Pool

8

Wednesday

1 p.m.

Senior Awards (Fox Hall)

8 p.m.

Open Mic Night (Triton’s Pub)

Eckerd Review 2010

R

d a e

P g in

y t ar 5:30 p. m.

Thursday, May 13

Elliott Gallery

arts & entertainment

Review

Mike Posner parties on the patio

By Ashley Daniels Contributing Writer It is that time of year again on Eckerd’s campus when students develop a fever. Spring fever. As the workload rapidly increases, the pressure to stay focused on academic obligations is often difficult because of the temptation to enjoy the sun. Believe it or not, there is a committee on campus dedicated to finding the perfect balance between school and sun: Palmetto Productions.

Each spring Palmetto provides Eckerd with a variety of events called Springtopia.

This year is even bigger and better especially since it’s a week longer. Throughout this year’s three weeks of Springtopia, Palmetto hosts events around an 80s theme like the Headphone dance party and an 80s party with a fashion show. “[Springtopia are] events to bring out the student body…to socialize and engage,” said Co-Director of Concerts for Palmetto and Senior Darius Lugo. “It’s the last semester and [Palmetto] has the budget to spend so we just throw [the students] a big party.”

Springtopia 2010 was kicked off on April 17 with National Act Mike Posner and Big Sean.

However, finding and signing the performers is a long process. “We were thinking about our national act at the beginning of the year,” said Lugo, “keeping in mind who and when we should bring them.”

Palmetto faced many hurdles in trying to put together the right show. Since Eckerd is a small school, the budget

The Current contributor Ashley Daniels had a chance to sit down with Posner for a brief interview.

Many of the schools you have hit throughout previous tours are big, well-known schools.

What could have possibly brought you to a school with such a small student body like Eckerd?

Because Eckerd wanted me to come. You guys showed me the love first. There is really strong support at this school, the biggest one being Darius.

Whenever there is someone like him showing love and supporting so much the least we can do is come rock out with you guys for the night.

courtesy of Ashley Daniels

for such an event has limits, forcing Palmetto to really focus on upcoming acts. “That’s how we came into Mike Posner,” Lugo explained. “No one wants to come out to see someone no one knows, so we do the best with what we have for our budget.” Roughly $14,000 was spent to bring Mike Posner and Big Sean to Eckerd.

Sophomore Brian Hill said, “It’s great that the school can

bring in top notch entertainment and give the students a great night to brag about to friends back home.”

And could Eckerd students brag. Mike Posner put on quite the show. In the spirit of most entertainers, Posner was about an hour late to his own performance. As the crowd began to grow impatient, Lugo stepped on stage to save the See POSNER on PAGE 20

Being a college student myself, I understand how hectic and stressful it can be balancing school work, social life and trying to find a career. What was it like having to juggle all of your responsibilities with your music along with the normal pressures college students face?

It was a lot of hard work. It was hard to stay motivated at times because the point of college is to get a job and I had a job. I was making more money than my teachers but at the same time my parents and a lot of people in my family sacrificed a lot for me to be able to go to a school like Duke and a lot of people don’t

get that opportunity. For me to be three years done and not go back would have been kind of a slap in the face to them.

And I can’t tell you how many times people have come up to me after shows, on Twitter, on Facebook and told me that I have inspired them to stay in school and follow their dreams at the same time. I guess that makes it all worth it. [laughs] It’s still weird to think about me inspiring people who sometimes are older than me.

Have you taken anything from your experiences out in the real world and away from the typical college life that you think would be beneficial for Eckerd’s graduating seniors?

Yeah, so it’s easy to think of life in categories and subcategories, like middle school, college. And your supposed to act a certain way in high school, a certain way in college. And then all the sudden your in this huge abyss of adulthood and it doesn’t really feel any different but your just not in a school environment anymore. I guess my only advice would be to not be afraid to do what you love. I go to a school where most of the kids go to Wall Street and they make a lot of money on Wall Street but none of them are happy. They See Q&A on PAGE 20 Friday, April 30, 2010

19

arts & entertainment Posner

Q&A

night. “Lets hear it for Big Sean!” A rumble went through the crowd, mainly the screams of girls.

Once the Big Sean performance was over, it was time for Posner to take the stage. So in his dark jeans, black tee and sunglasses, he began to sing. “Though you may never be on a Maybelline commercial, but you always let me know when you got some purple…” The crowd officially had their hands in the air and heads moving with the beat.

Sophomore Frank Acuri commented on Posner’s performance, saying, “I admire [his style], there’s so much garbage out there today…he sends a positive message through an array of trippy influential beats and that hasn’t been around since the 90s.”

The crowd began pushing and shoving toward the front. Only two medal barricades separated Posner from the crowd. As the crowd grew more intense, security had to be called in to push back the barricades. However, Posner enjoyed all the hype from the crowd, especially from the girls who were practically climbing over security to touch him. One girl even jacked his watch.

Overall, the concert was a hit. “Everyone there, whether they liked the music or not, was having a really good time,” said Sophomore Patrick Reed. “Everyone was excited and into what Mike was doing.”

Senior Allie Solan said, “I think he did a really good job with keeping the crowd entertained.” So much so that during the last song, security had to start pulling people off stage who were crowd surfing. Posner didn’t seem to mind though as followed suit by doing some crowd surfing himself.

It’s just a matter of time till Mike Posner takes over the music industry. And when that time comes, the students that were at his concert will be lucky enough to say that they saw him before he became a superstar. One girl can even say she has his watch.

work like 100-hour weeks. Everyone does it. I was thinking like ‘should I be doing this’ all my friends are doing it, but I decided to do what I love and now I make more money than they do. I work 100-hour weeks now too but I love, I love what I do, so it’s not really work to me.

I would just say follow what makes you happy because the real world can be a cold place if you’re not doing what you love.

continued from Page 19

20

Friday, April 30, 2010

continued from Page 19

Your music definitely has its own unique sound to it. You mix genres in a way we haven’t really heard before. Growing up, which artists had the strongest influence on your music?

There were so many. I grew up in a really diverse neighborhood so I was listening to a really broad spectrum of music, and I think that’s why my stuff sounds the way it does. A lot of people don’t really know what to call it. I don’t really know what to call it. But I know people rock out at shows. [laughs] I grew up listening to everything from like J.Dilla and The Roots and

Nas to Led Zepplin, Paul Simon and Luther Vandross.

I know your first official release is coming out sometime in late summer.

Should your fans be expecting any big changes in the sound as compared to the two mixtapes you have put out?

They should expect it to be like the mixtapes except way better. I’m sure you can name a few artists and I can certainly name quite a few artist whose albums have come out and the first thing you thought is their mixtapes were better than that.

I promise you I won’t be one of those artists. My album’s crazy.

Are there any artists working right now who you are particularly interested in collaborating with?

Some of them aren’t working. [laughs] Like Andre 3000. He’s my favorite rapper. But right now I am very concentrated on my project. It’s almost done.

There is not going to be any features expect maybe (Big) Sean, he might be the only one. Because I feel like I don’t have to trick people into liking my mu-

sic and I know once I put my album out I’ll be able to work with whoever I want.

Each decade has its own unique set of artist who really dictate the direction of popular culture. How do you feel about the current state of pop music and do you see yourself as being one of those artists who leads the way for the new decade?

I definitely feel like I’m going to be one of the people leading the way. The music industry is like waves crashing into shore, there’s always new people coming and there’s always people fading away. So a guy like Kanye (West) right now. No one is talking about Kanye right now, but he’s recording his album and when he comes back he could change the way everything goes. And then there is a guy like Drake right now who’s already changing stuff. So, yeah I definitely look forward to being one of the people that can push it in a certain way. And I think I already am to a certain extent in what I have done, but I look forward to doing it on a larger scale.

arts & entertainment

How to rock your interview

By Meagan Bemis Managing Editor Clammy palms, shaky voice and sweaty pits (oh no, did I remember to floss?). These are just some of the things that can happen to any interviewee while sitting in the waiting room before a job interview. However, these are not the worst things that can happen. There is much advice available for those looking to ace an interview, but here is a compilation of some of the best advice for those nerve-racking appointments.

Research your recruiter When you work for a company, the people on top want to know that you have the company’s best interest in mind at all times, even in the interview.

If you enter the interview room with little to no knowledge of anything besides the job requirements, you might be in for the boot. Find out who will be interviewing you and what their position is.

Ivanka Trump recently told the “Today Show’s” Matt Lauer that too many young people are making the mistake of casting a wide net for anything that will nibble. What she looks for when hiring is the candidate who has thoroughly researched the company, and can articulate how his or her personal strengths will be an asset. She wants a candidate who is clear about his or her career interests, and not just in finding any old job.

If you’re interviewing at a company that has an online presence (Facebook or a Web site), check out the “about us” section (look for mission statements and company policies).

Employmentguide.com says that while you’re researching, make sure to note things you would like to know more about, like what a typical work day entails or benefits the company may offer.

Build your charisma (practice, practice, practice) It might feel silly, or even useless to practice answers to questions you’re not sure will be asked, but honestly, it’s one of the easiest preparations you can do. Look in the mirror or ask your best friend or significant other to mock

interview you. Have them ask typical interview questions such as the ones worksmart.com offers: “Tell me about yourself,” “What do you know about the work we do at this company?” or “Why should we hire you?”

When working on your answers to these questions, make sure to keep them positive and work related.

When asked to talk about yourself, try to highlight your best professional qualities (graduated from Eckerd College with a 3.5 GPA, interned with the St. Petersburg Times, etc.) When asked about your knowledge, make sure you showcase the research you’ve done. Now is when you can bring up things you would like to know more about as well, it’ll show genuine interest in the company and all that they do.

Dress to impress, and then adapt This is usually when the palms get sweaty and you bite your lip in frustration. What on earth do I wear to this interview? Most resources for good interview dress say that it is always better to be overdressed than to be underdressed. For women and men, a dark colored, tailored suit is best. In more casual settings a button-down blouse and nice pants (not jeans) is a good choice for both men and women.

At the Office of Career Resources, Jane Colsen and John Ingmire also advise that when you arrive at the interview location, make note of certain things (décor, common dress, etc) and adapt yourself among them (when you come back for a second interview or if you get the job).

Interview the interviewer This is the part of the interview when you are wrapping up and the interviewer side-swipes you: Do you have any questions? I know that at just about every interview I have had, this is where I freeze. You’re so busy trying to seem really interested in the position that you forget what really interests you. The truth is, this is your last chance to prove your genuine interest in the company and that employer wants to know what you want to know.

To avoid tripping up when asked try writing down a list of questions in your interview notebook that you’d want to ask your employer, based on

courtesy of Wikicommons

the research you have done about the company. Check them off when they have been answered. You can even write down the answers to show you are really paying attention. Some example questions from worksmart. com are: Who will be supervising me?

What kind of training is provided or available? Is there a dress code?

Mind your P’s and Q’s; make sure to send Thank You’s Everyone has an idea of do’s and don’t’s when it comes to interview etiquette. There are hundreds of pieces of advice offered by hundreds of different people with different experiences, but there are a few things most agree on.

• Always be on time (or a little early) for your interview. Basically, you’re supposed to show up to work on time and if your first impression shows your lazy side, you might be crossed right off the list.

• Be conscious of your body language.

Firm, confident handshakes and crossed legs are a good start to any interview. Don’t slouch in the interview chair – sit up straight and lean slightly forward to show engagement, but don’t make yourself as rigid as a wooden board either; be confident and comfortable. Also make sure to look your interviewer in the eye intermittently. Don’t stare directly at him or her, but make sure to look

engaged.

• Think positive. An interview is not the time to rag on old bosses or explain why Susie and the kids left you because of long hours at your old job. Try to make your answers and anecdotes as positive as possible. This company wants to know that you’re ready to move on from old problem areas and give this new job your all, and being positive will show them you are.

• Send a thank-you! According to Colsen and Ingmire, possibly the most important thing you can do after an interview is send a thank-you note.

Handwritten snail-mail is preferred because it shows thoughtfulness; however, if an e-mail address has been provided, it is acceptable to send a thank-you e-mail. Don’t make it a phone call because you are trying to show you are appreciative of the interviewer’s time, and a disrupting phone call won’t do the trick.

Most importantly, be yourself Whatever you do in an interview make sure it is a genuine act. Don’t lie on your resume, don’t pretend to be something you’re not and don’t make yourself nervous. If you’re applying for the job and you’ve gotten an interview, obviously there is already some interest in you at the company – you did something right already! So, try not to sweat the interview (or through your shirt).

Friday, April 30, 2010

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arts & entertainment

Commencement schedule May 2010 Saturday, May 22, 2010

Sunday, May 23, 2010

PEL Graduation Celebration Fox Hall 3:30 p.m.

Reception in honor of the graduates of the Program for Experienced Learners. Graduates, their families and friends are invited to this event celebrating and recognizing the outstanding achievements of PEL seniors.

Doughnuts and Coffee for Families Hosted by President Eastman & Executive Staff South Beach Field 7 a.m.

Baccalaureate Wireman Chapel 5 p.m.

A service celebrating the commencement of the Class of 2010.

Dean of Students’ After Party Hough Quad 6 p.m.

Graduates and their guests are invited to this reception hosted by the Office of the Dean of Students featuring a light buffet, live music and a spectacular fireworks display beginning at 9 p.m.

Reservations not needed.

Meghan Elizabeth Mahoney We continue to be very proud of you.

Congratulations on all of your accomplishments at Eckerd from the classroom to international travel to the dance team to sailing.

Graduation is just the beginning of a very bright future!

All our love, Mom and Dad Caramel, too!

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Friday, April 30, 2010

Robing for Graduates, Faculty and Platform Party Hough Quad 7 a.m.

Commencement South Beach Field 8 a.m.

Graduation Reception South Beach Field Following Ceremony

To Brigid Moran: I'll always be with you, wherever the north wind blows you.

Love, Mommy

sports

Women’s rugby going strong after three years

By Mitchell Ann Crowley Contributing Writer According to rumor, Eckerd College has a women’s rugby team. And not to brag, but we’re pretty good. Three years and a lot of luck, and the women’s rugby team is a reality. We’ve practiced. We’ve played. And though we haven’t won, the opposition fought for every inch.

Rugby is a tough sport. It requires so much of its players, in so many ways.

“The sport as a whole is a challenge to me,” says Junior Kristina Krajcik.

“The rules are not that easy to pick up because it’s not like any sport that we’ve grown up with, and it’s physically as well as mentally demanding.”

There are 15 players to a side on the field. The base the game is built on sounds simple, but takes a lot of practice: you cannot pass forward. To move the ball to your try line, you must run with it or kick it, but never throw it forward.

This means the funny-shaped ball is constantly in motion.

“A rugby ball has a mind of its own,” says Sophomore Tess Busch. “You never know which way it’s going to bounce. A rugby ball can be your best friend or your worst enemy. Sometimes it bounces right into your hands and makes you look like a superstar, and other times you lunge forwards and it bounces in the opposite direction, leaving you to feel like a fool.”

We’ve adapted to the funny-shaped ball. Three years ago, Eckerd’s women’s rugby team couldn’t have dreamed of being where we are today. We had very few players. We had no coach. We couldn’t have played a game if we tried.

These days, it’s a little different. We can’t go three days without another student asking for the date of our next game, and most of them haven’t even seen us play.

Our peers seem truly excited for us.

They want us here.

Three years ago, they thought we were a joke.

And I was the one mostly being laughed at. From my sophomore year to today, at the end of my senior year, I tried to pick the team up and get it going again and again. We started with a grand total of seven girls, only one of whom had ever really played. We’ve ended with 22, and as of March 20, we’ve all played before. And we plan to continue.

“I never expected to get so hopelessly addicted to the game of rugby,” says Busch. “Since I joined the team, I’ve only missed two practices.”

“I keep coming to practice because of the amazing friendship we have developed as a team,” comments Krajcik.

I have never been so proud to be a part of a group of girls. We have bonded beyond anything I could have ever expected, both as a team and as a group of friends. I can rely on them.

“I love the girls on the team,” says Freshman Katie Neff. “It’s good to have a mix of girls who have played before and some who haven’t. This year was more of a learning/getting to know your team year. We’re like one big family that clicked immediately. One can tell from our team dinners that we’re a riot.”

As of this year, with a full team, our peers have been more than supportive,

Courtesy of Eckerdtritons.com Mitchell Ann Crowley, middle, has spent her Eckerd career building the women’s rugby program from scratch.

they’ve been downright fanatic. We had a several whole groups of fans drive four hours to see our first game in Miami.

“I want everyone to know that women are tough and we can play as well as men,” Senior Carolyn Kenney, a fan, says. “We’re equals.”

“It’s great to see the game spreading on campus, “ comments Junior Anthony Gianotti, “hopefully starting a tradition at Eckerd. I would love to go to home games to see my friends compete.”

And there are games in the future. EC Women’s Rugby will be joining the Florida Cup in the fall, guaranteeing at least five games, two of which will be played at home.

We’ll be playing big schools like University of South Florida and University of Miami, and it promises to be an exciting season. I am so disappointed that I will not be able to play.

Now, with graduation looming, my time as a player and a captain is at its end.

My time as an Eckerd College undergrad is at an end. But I can honestly say that I have never felt so happy, so good, or so proud of my girls and me in my whole life. We became a team that will continue to succeed for so many reasons.

In Krajcik’s words, “We’re just going to kick some a** and take some names.

It’s how we roll.”

Sports Baseball

Softball

Men’s Tennis

Men’s Tennis (Cont.)

Friday, April 30 @ Saint Leo 6 p.m.

Friday, April 30 @ Tampa 7 p.m.

Sunday, May 2 through Tuesday, May 4

Monday, May 17 through Thursday, May 20

Sunday, May 2 @ Saint Leo 1 p.m.

Saturday, May 1 @ Tampa (DH) 1 p.m.

NCAA Super Regionals Time TBA

NCAA National Championships Time TBA Friday, April 30, 2010

23

sports

courtesy of Wikicommons Giants ace Tim Lincecum, above, has been a godsend for San Francisco’s pitching staff.

Meanwhile, young star outfielder Matt Kemp, right, leads a powerful Los Angeles offense in HR, RBIs and runs.

Dodgers-Giants rivalry heating up the West

By Will Creager Sports Writer Arguably the second biggest rivalry in all of baseball resumed for the first time in the 2010 baseball season: the San Francisco Giants came to Los Angeles to face the Dodgers for a three-game series from April 16 to April 18.

This celebrated rivalry dates all the way back to 1890, when they were the New York Giants and the Brooklyn Dodgers. Over the next 120 years, the Giants and Dodgers would face each other 2,302 times, with the Giants winning 1,161 of those games and the Dodgers taking 1,141 games. The Giants and Dodgers moved west together in 1957, to San Francisco and Los Angeles respectively, where their rivalry remained as intense as it was in New York.

This rivalry is widely considered the top rivalry in National League history, not just because of the intense and passionate hatred the teams and fans feel for one another but because these two franchises are possibly the most prestigious National League franchises of all-time. The Giants have more wins, 10,344 through 2009, than any other team in Major League history. The Dodgers are fourth on that list with 9,645 wins.

The Giants and Dodgers have the top two winning percentages in National League history, with .538 and .524 winning percentages respectively. The Dodgers have more pennants, 21, and second most World Series titles, 6, of all National League teams; the Giants are right behind their foes with 20 pennants and 5 titles to their name.

Also, the Giants and Dodgers are first and second respectively in the number of Hall of Famers who played for them. Fifth-three different Hall of Famers played for the Giants and 47 played for the Dodgers.

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Friday, April 30, 2010

The most famous Giants-Dodgers gamed occurred in 1951. By August 11, the Giants were trailing the Dodgers by 13.5 games. However, the Giants won 16 straight games, and 37 of their final 44 games, while the Dodgers went 26-22 in their final 48 games.

The Giants and Dodgers finished the season tied, and had to play a threegame playoff series for the pennant. After the Giants took the first game and the Dodgers took the second one, the Dodgers took a 4-1 lead into the bottom of the ninth in game three. However, the Giants rallied, getting singles from Alvin Dark and Don Mueller and then a double by Whitey Lockman, sending Bobby Thomson to the plate as the potential winning run. Dodgers pitcher Ralph Branca threw an 0-1 fastball up and in, which Thomson pulled down the leftfield line for the game winning homerun, which became known as the “shot heard round the world.”

There have also been some very heated and violent moments between the two teams.

Possibly the most violent moment ever in Major League Baseball history came on August 22, 1965. Juan Marichal, one of the best pitchers in Giants history, knocked down several Dodgers hitters in the game. Consequently, when Marichal came to bat, Dodgers catcher John Roseboro threw a couple of throws back to the pitcher right by Marichal’s ear. Marichal then took his bat and clubbed Roseboro over the head, leading to a bench-clearing brawl.

The Giants-Dodgers rivalry is one that closely rivals that of the Yankees and Red Sox. Many of the best players of all-time have been involved in these intense battles, including Willie Mays, Jackie See L.A./S.F. RIVALRY on PAGE 27 Robinson, Christy Mathewson, Sandy Koufax, Barry Bonds, Duke Snider, Willie McCovey,

sports

After Division II: playing pro basketball overseas

By Kirsten Sengstacke Contributing Writer The NBA drafts sixty players each year, 2 rounds with 30 picks in each. With 346 Division I teams and 289 Division II teams, these picks tend to come from the best of the best players of college basketball.

In recent years, however, higher numbers of players have been drafted from overseas, making the odds for college athletes even smaller.

“Every young aspiring athlete has dreams of making it big,” says former Eckerd basketball player Bobby Simpson. “As for me, I was no different.

There is nothing bigger than becoming an NBA player. After being a high school star then entering college, you realize your entire college team is made up of high school stars. The amount of great, young athletes in America is unbelievable.”

The chances of playing professionally in the NBA after Division I are considerably low. Making it to the NBA out of a Division II college program – well, that’s pretty much slim to none.

“It’s just such a long shot,” says Eckerd College head basketball coach Tom Ryan on the odds of his players making it to the NBA. Instead he encourages his players to think overseas. “We talk about wouldn’t it be great to have a college degree and get to go to Europe for two years, travel around and play basketball before you start your career.”

In the last 10 years, Eckerd College has sent 11 players abroad to play basketball professionally.

Eckerd Alumni Bobby Simpson ‘08, Matthew Cenatus ’07 and Damone Morris ’08 are just three of them.

Though Simpson did not play basketball all four years at Eckerd, he now starts for the Cossack Blue Spirits in the Philippines.

“I have been here just about six months now,” says Simpson on playing in the Philippines. “The experience is absolutely amazing. Being half Filipino, basketball has given me the chance to ‘get in touch with my roots’, meet family, and learn about a different culture.”

Cenatus and Morris were starters on the 20062007 Eckerd basketball lineup that won the Sunshine State Conference championship and made it to the NCAA Division II tournament. As talented and gifted as these star players are, they both realized coming out of their senior year that the NBA would be a very difficult goal to reach.

Being 6’3”, Cenatus realized pretty early that the NBA was going to be difficult for him, given his height, so he changed the scope on his sights. “I just went with the next best thing to do so that I could help myself out and my family. I just knew playing basketball overseas was my way of doing it.”

After graduating, Cenatus played in Germany for two and a half years with the Tus Bramsche Red Devils. The experience was well worth it for Cenatus, and he hasn’t ruled out the option of going back.

“I met people that are really nice and I can call

them my friends,” says Cenatus. “I was thinking about going back to play, I had a blast playing overseas they treated me like a king.”

Morris, who is currently in New York playing in the International Basketball League for the Albany Legends, decided post-college to follow his dream, training with his cousin and NBA player Tracy McGrady in hopes of making it in the NBDL (National Basketball Development League).

“The opportunity for a Division II athlete to come out and play in the big leagues, meaning the NBA out of college their senior year is very rare,” says Morris.

Unfortunately for Morris, he was cut after the second round of try outs for the Rio Grande Valley Vipers. “So in my situation, the best option for me if I wanted to play professionally was overseas.”

The following year Morris played in China with the New Century Dongguan Leopards. The experience, though a culture shock, was great for him. “I never got a chance to travel out of the country before,” explains Morris. “So I thought it was a good opportunity for me to experience some new things that I had never seen before in my life.”

In addition to the wonderful learning experience, playing internationally has its other benefits.

“Being an American, you seem to get special treatment because the people here look up to American basketball,” says Simpson.

“They know you’re there because you are some type of athlete,” explains Morris. “So you walk into the store and it was cool because the kids come up to you and they want to take pictures with you and they want you to sign autographs. They make you feel like a star, man and it’s a good feeling.”

However, according to both Simpson and Morris, being an American can be a disadvantage too.

“There’s a lot of pressure,” Morris states. “You have to mind your P’s and Q’s at 110 percent all the time because they expect you to perform.”

Simpson stresses, “I am expected to perform more than “good” every game. If I can’t show the team, the management, and the crowd that I’m worthy enough for them to pay the extra cash to keep

courtesy of Kirsten Sengstacke Left: Bobby Simpson (‘08) now plays for the Cossack Blue Spirits, in the Philippines. Above: Eckerd alum Matt Cenatus (‘07) drives to the hoop for the Tus Bramsche Red Devils, in Germany.

me here every game, then I can easily be released and they will just find a local to take my place.”

The other major difference for these American players is the pace of the “International” game compared to the one they know back home in the States.

“Playing in Germany is nothing like playing in the United States,” says Cenatus. “It’s a totally different game. The refs let you hand check the offensive player while they’re dribbling the basketball up the court. They don’t make as many calls because they want the games to be fast and the fans are crazy.”

“Another big difference is the size of the players,” adds the 6’3” Simpson. “Back home the average center is about 6’10’’ and up in the NBA. Here the average center is only about 6’7’’ and up.”

Despite these minor differences and drawbacks for these once Division II players, playing overseas is the total package. Not only do they get to play the sport they love and get paid while doing so, they get to experience a whole different part of the world.

“I have been given the opportunity to make a great living doing what I love,” says Simpson. “Until they take that away, then I don’t see myself leaving.”

Friday, April 30, 2010

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photos by Doug Thayer Bottom left: Junior Aaron Kleefield. Top left: Junior Emmy Laing. Above: Junior Ben Maxwell.

Game, set, match, season

By Ben Maxwell Contributing Writer The year for Eckerd Tennis is over. Hard as it is to write that, it’s true.

Reflecting on the year, what I can say is that we fought hard this season to achieve our record of 7-11 overall and 2-4 in conference. Our head coach, Erin Koenig said, “[It’s] the best season I’ve had in four seasons. We have had some rough moments but the team showed a lot of heart and we had many great moments.”

Each time we took to the court we knew what we had to do: compete to our full potential.

Junior Aaron Kleefield said, “Every player contributed their best possible effort on and off the court and produced a much better outcome for the season [in both] doubles and singles.”

We proved this when we defeated Saint Leo in their own territory. The match was our first win in the 2010 season. We swept the Lions in singles and only dropped the No. 2 doubles match. Throughout the remainder of the season, we had our ups and downs, but as Senior Alex McDonald said, “It’s the ability to win close matches, which makes the difference between a successful season and a tough one.”

An example of how important it is to win the close matches came late in our season, when we took on the Florida Tech Panthers who was ranked 37th nationally and ninth regionally.

The entire match was a nail-biter. Half the 26

Friday, April 30, 2010

singles matches went to three sets, with the final one lying on the shoulders of No. 5 player McDonald. If he won his match, we would be victorious. McDonald won the first set 6-4, but dropped the second set 4-6. He came back in the third set to win it 6-2.

This match was a momentum turner for us; we only lost one of our final three matches, falling to #4 Lynn 1-8, but fighting back to beat West Alabama 5-4 and Saint Leo for the second time of the season, 6-3.

Perhaps the best news of the season came in early April when the the Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) posted its rankings. For the first time this year, we had been ranked in the NCAA Division II: ranked 41st in the nation and eighth in the region, an honor the entire team is proud to hold. However, it’s even more significant to our coach. This is her first time in four seasons to be ranked at the national and regional level.

Ask any one of us and we will express our satisfaction with this past season because of the vast improvement. “From where we were three years ago,” McDonald said, “to where we are now, it’s unbelievable. To go from a losing record to being nationally ranked is an accomplishment for anyone.”

Graduating this year is Alex McDonald and Jon Bonner. Though they have been assets to the team, the team’s depth looks promising for the 2011 season.

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Final weekend closes 2010

By Max Martinez Sports Editor With one last weekend series of games on the first days of May, softball’s 2010 season has all but finished.

After breaking the single-season win record in 2009, Eckerd softball headed into the 2010 campaign with high hopes. Unfortunately, after a 3-3 start, times got rough. A six-loss weekend in late February negated any momentum the photos by Doug Thayer team had.

Above: Sophomore Alex Sasso. Top right: Sophomore So, with three games left on the schedule, the Emma Docking

L.A./S.f. RIVALRY continued from Page 24 Roy Campanella, Don Drysdale, Carl Hubbell and Marichal.

And today? The Giants and Dodgers are both coming off very solid 2009 seasons. The Dodgers won the National League Western division with a 95-67 record.

The Giants missed the playoffs, but still won 88 games and had their first winning season since Barry Bonds retired. Both teams are expected to compete for the National League Western title again this year, along with the Colorado Rockies.

Freshman Mitchell Dobro, who is from Denver and is a Rockies fan, says “It’s a classic rivalry that always heats up the division.”

The very first series of the year between these two teams did not disappoint. There was plenty

of offense and pitching, some scandal, and some heartbreak.

In the first game, the Dodgers took a 7-0 lead after two innings off of three homeruns, two of which were hit by Andre Ethier.

In the bottom of the second, the scandal started.

Giants pitcher Todd Wellemeyer threw a pitch up and in to Dodger centerfielder Matt Kemp, who hit the deck in order to avoid being hit by the pitch.

Three innings later, Dodgers pitcher Vincente Padilla, who has a reputation of being a headhunter, beaned Giants centerfielder Aaron Rowand.

Rowand, who suffered three fractures around his left eye and a minor concussion, was put on the 15-day disabled list. The Dodgers wound up winning the game 10-8, as they survived a five-run ninth inning rally by the Giants.

The Giants handled the second game very easily,

team has managed a 15-32-1 record. The Tritons ended up with a 11-13 record at Turley Athletic Complex, far better than their road record.

Sophomore Emma Docking led the team with a .313 batting average, while freshman Kristen Schurr slugged a team-high six homeruns and 29 RBIs. Both Docking and Schurr are in place to be everyday players in 2011.

The team will lose senior Mackenzie Dawson, who recently broke the career wins record at Eckerd. Alex Sasso will be the team’s most experienced pitcher when next season begins.

Sasso is 4-11 with a 3.63 ERA so far this year.

winning 9-0 behind an amazing effort from their ace, Tim Lincecum.

Lincecum, who has won the National League Cy Young award in each of the last two seasons, threw six shutout innings and picked up three hits and three RBI’s in the game. He picked up the win to become 3-0 after three starts.

Game three of the series was a pitchers duel.

Giants lefty Barry Zito and Dodgers lefty Clayton Kershaw matched zeros until the top of the seventh, when Giants second baseman Juan Uribe broke the tie with his first homerun of the year.

However, the Dodgers took the lead in the bottom of the eighth, on Manny Ramirez’s pinch-hit two-run homerun, as the Dodgers won game three 2-1 and took the first of six series between the two teams.

The Giants and Dodgers will not play each other again until June 28.

Friday, April 30, 2010

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The Official Student Newspaper of Eckerd College

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photo by Doug Thayer Infielder Kristen Schurr has had a solid freshman season, hitting .277 with a team-leading 6 homeruns and 27 RBI.

Page 23

Women’s Rugby continues growing, schedules more games

Page 25

Eckerd alums go pro overseas

Pages 26-27

Spring 2010 season comes to a close