The Official Student Newspaper of Eckerd College
Vol. XXVI
October 15, 2010
St. Petersburg, Florida
Issue 3
cover art by Ashli Fiorini
Environmental update
Are genetically modified salmon in our future?
News & Features — Page 5
“The Social Network”
Lady Gaga
Pop star takes on “Don’t ask, don’t tell”
Viewpoints — Page 9
Five out of five stars
Arts & Entertainment — Page 13
news & features
Executive Board
Fire results in evacuation
Editor-in-Chief Petra Stevenson Director of Advertising Abby Gestl currentads@eckerd.edu Web Editors Max Martinez Shawn Craine Faculty Adviser Tracy Crow Director of Finances Beth Robinson News Editor Laurel Ormiston currentnews@eckerd.edu Asst. News Editor Ashley Daniels
By Christian Wimer Staff Writer A fire in a palm tree caused the evacuation of Omega at 8:15 p.m. Oct. 5. No damage to Omega resulted from the blaze, with slight damage to the palm tree. The source of the fire outside a second floor balcony is unknown. Campus safety attempted to stop the fire, but gusts of wind caused embers to flare up and prevented the fire extinguishers from reaching it. The St. Petersburg fire department then arrived in three trucks and quickly hosed down the palms. Much of Omega was evacuated, and many more students flocked to the scene drawn by the commotion of the fire trucks. The students were safely returned to their dormitories within two hours of the fire being spotted.
photo courtesy of Cait Duffy The SPFD fireman check for damage.
Entertainment Editors Johnny Jones Jeralyn Darling currententertainment@eckerd.edu Viewpoints Editor Jaclyn New currentviews@eckerd.edu Asst. viewpoints Editor Liz Tomaselli Sports Editor Will Creager currentsports@eckerd.edu Asst. Sports Editor Lincoln Andres-Beck
Staff Writers Kristen Torres Shelby Howell Sarah Malhotra Sarah K. Yost April Green Morgan Swim Christian Wimer
Photographers & Illustrators Doug Thayer Michael Specht Tonya Gabriel Brianna Dickinson Ethan Cooper Ashli Fiorini Kelly Grasty Morgan Swim
Contributing Writers Sean Lawlor
• October 15, 2010 • • Vol. XXVI Iss. 3 • 2
Friday, October 15, 2010
photo by Cait Duffy Evacuated Omega residents are joined by curious onlookers from other dorms.
photo by Cait Duffy Two SPFD fireman extinguish the palm tree fire.
EC to host Haitian presidential debate By Ashley Daniels Asst. News Editor Eckerd College will host a debate for the Haitian presidential candidates 2-5 p.m., Saturday, in Fox Hall. The debate, one month before the Nov. 28 election, will introduce 11 of the 19 candidates, who plan to reveal their visions for a new Haiti to the Haitian population here in Florida. Prior to the forum, visit Haiti Votes (https://haitivotes.com) to view bios of each candidate. The forum is free and open to the public. You can follow the forum through a live stream by WMNF 88.5 FM. The stream will be recorded and available on the WMNF website (wmnf.org). More than 160 stations nationally photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons and Canada, France, Haiti and the Dominican Republic will The Haitian National Flag. have access to the live stream.
news & features photo by Michael Specht
Panoramic display of the Elliott Gallery exhibition.
Faculty and staff featured at Elliott Gallery opening By Sarah K. Yost Staff Writer Move over Dali Museum. Eckerd College opened the Eckerd College Residential Visual Arts Faculty and Staff Exhibition in the Elliott Gallery Oct. 3. Those who know or have met the staff members and faculty whose works are displayed are familiar with their artistic talents. For the rest of us, we can view staff and faculty with newfound appreciation. The display in Elliott Gallery ranges from pieces showing the passion of artists who love the creative process to expressing oppression and the
abuse of power. “Portrait of a Young Girl,” by Associate Professor of Visual Arts Kirk Ke Wang, is the first target you see as you enter the gallery simply because of the incredible size. The two paintings side by side are unique because they were chosen for the gallery to be a teaching tool for Wang’s Painting 1 class that meets every Tuesday night from 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.. The idea was to introduce the future artists to the process of transforming “drawing to painting.” Wang also has two other paintings in the exhibit that are meaningful to him in that he feels as if he lives in two worlds, the
Campus Safety reminder Recent incidents resulting in student injury have made it necessary to issue a reminder about Eckerd College’s policy on a safe coexistence between bikers, skateboarders and pedestrains. A particular area of concern is Hough Quad. The followig guidelines are from the Eckerd College Official Policy on Bicycles, Scooters, Skateboards, and Long Boards: “Eckerd College recognizes that students, faculty, and staff use various means of transportation on campus. Indeed, the College’s Yellow Bicycle Program encourages the use of bicycles as an environmentally sound alternative for campus transportation. The safety and well-being of community members must also be considered, and as a result, we are taking this opportunity to remind you of our policies regarding bicycles, scooters, pocket bikes, skateboards, and long boards. All individuals using bicycles, scooters, skateboards, or long boards, are expected to yield
the right of way at all times to pedestrians and should not exceed a reasonable speed. Bicycles and scooters may be ridden on campus roadways and on grassy areas. Bicycles and scooters may not be ridden on sidewalks adjacent to buildings. The use of skateboards, long boards, motor scooters, or bicycles within and around the buildings on the Academic Quad—Sheen, Seibert, Forrer, and Miller--is strictly prohibited. Students should exercise caution when skateboarding or long boarding along the sidewalks of other buildings, particularly where exterior doors open onto the sidewalk. The use of skateboards or long boards inside campus buildings, including the residence halls, is strictly prohibited. Eckerd College Safety and Security officers are authorized to take temporary possession of bicycles, scooters, skateboards and long boards from users who use these items in a reckless manner, act without caution or do not comply with these policies.
Eastern and the Western. In both these paintings the artist renders meaning from the American icon “Betty Boop.” He relates to her in the fact that physically the toy he presents was made in china, but is then sent to America. In his artist statement he says, “In some way, I think of myself as a toy, manufactured in China, shipped out and played with or being played with somewhere else.” The playfulness of Eckerd alum and staff member Emily Ayers’ pieces claim to be “making something out of nothing.” Her unique use of rope, wax, hair dye and piping cords leave room for “imperfection.”
Ayers explains in her artist statement that “it allows me freedom and I relish in the experimentation of it all.” Her young take on art is refreshing and unyielding in today’s society. The exhibit introduced a wide array of expression that is sure to inspire students. As Rebecca Skelton states in her artist statement, “Paint knows only the laws of paint and the image knows only itself as it struggles to emerge. Each is like a willful child growing into an independent image.”
World War I finally ends By April Green Staff Writer The last battles of World War I ended almost a century ago, but the financial books did not shut on the Great War until early this month. On Oct. 3 Germany finally paid the last of its debt from World War I according to a recent article by “Time.” The simple explanation for this seemingly late repayment is that war is expensive; factor in the small detail that this war occurred on a global scale, and suddenly, 92 years is not such a long time. However, many factors played into this drawn-out repayment; the world kept spinning while Germany was trying to pay off World War I. Conflict, refusals and recalculations complicated matters. Since the Great War caused more death and destruction than any previous conflict, creators of the Treaty of Versailles were unsure how to calculate its cost.
Although money can never replace all that is destoryed during war, reparations are charged to countries that cause war in photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons attempts to help Euro Notes. rebuild stricken areas. After two years of However, in 1929 the Dawes contemplation, the International Plan was replaced with a fiftyReparations Committee decided nine year payment plan which that Germany owed $402 billion required $5 billion less from by today’s standards. Historians Germany than the original $33 say Germany could have paid billion. this hefty amount, but the world Adolf Hitler was the next had a different plan. road block of the reparation The major problem with payments. He simply refused to the reparation settlement was pay any reparations. This policy not that Germany could not did not change until 1953, a pay; it was the series of events time in history when there was Germany took part in following an East Germany and a West World War I. To pay the first few Germany. West Germany agreed installments, Germany printed money with nothing to back it to start paying off the debts, up which caused hyperinflation. but refused to pay everything In 1924, the Dawes Plan was until the country was reunified. implemented allowing Germany Fifteen years ago, the final step to buy bonds from U.S. Banks began, and a unified Germany and pay them as they were due. decided to resume payments. Friday, October 15, 2010
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news & features
Human elephant conflict a growing problem By Sarah Malhotra Staff Writer We’ve seen roadkill before. But imagine living in a country where roadkill isn’t just a possum, but an elephant. Train tracks on an Indian railroad trapped two baby elephants this year in late September. The herd moved in to rescue them, resulting in seven fatalities when the freight train struck them. The tracks were closed down for hours afterward as other members of the herd stood nearby guarding the dead. According to the “Times of India,” “speeding trains regularly hit elephants in the area as the track crosses the elephants’ known route.” Sadly, this is just one tragic piece of the larger, overwhelming puzzle that is the human elephant conflict. Otto Fad, an elephant manager at Busch Gardens, came to Eckerd to talk about this growing dilemma. As defined by the African Elephant Specialist group, the Human Elephant Conflict is as “any human-elephant interaction which results in negative effects on human social, economic, or cultural life, on elephant conservation, or on the environment.” While African elephants are considered “threatened” and Asian elephants have reached the status of “endangered,” the threat to human life in third world countries is undeniable. There are times children can’t go to school in these countries because elephants walk through the
schools. They also walk all over people’s properties when there are no sturdy fences to deter them, destroying crops. Some ideas to reduce this problem include limited hunting licenses, tracking technology, birth control and using watchtowers to notify railroads if elephant herds are approaching. However there are no easy solutions to the human elephant conflict. It is a dire problem and more research is necessary both in the field and in controlled environments. All elephants on the planet are managed by humans to some degree, whether it be due to roads and electric fences or zoos and poachers. The question is, why should humans care about their relationship with elephants today? “It’s a very important conflict to keep in mind, just because of the numbers of people and elephants that are being injured and killed on a daily basis,” says Junior Patrick Reed, who worked as a student elephant observer on animal behavior for Professor Lauren Highfill. Her personality study analyzed the behavior of Busch Garden elephants in Tampa. Reed thinks the issue is “also important because it’s not something that has an easy fix where you can put elephants in their natural environment and let them live.” She adds, “The ever growing human nature we are expanding into areas that make it hard to just let elephants live on their own—like most people just want to do—so it’s important for us to look at how we can live with them, as opposed to separate.”
Man’s best friend? The fates of humans and elephants have been intertwined for centuries. Do you know your human/elephant history? • For more than 4,000 years we’ve trained elephants in everything from elephant polo to human executions (training an elephant to slowly kill a human by using its feet). •Elephants may have made the spread of human civilization possible by being a large food resource, along with their trailblazing ability to transform landscapes. •Today, elephants are a main feature in zoos, circuses and the unique sport of elephant polo.
Co-exist: Local initiatives
photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons Indian elephant decorated for festival. 4
Friday, October 15, 2010
When it comes to untrained elephants, we have problems coexisting. But strides are being made in co-existing with tamed ones locally in Tampa. Busch Gardens uses positive reinforcement when training elephants. Anything from tactile rubdowns, toys and games to eye contact and body posture works wonders on animals. Otto Fad advocates the Least Reinforcing Scenario during training, which means that neutral body posture and eye contact are used to periodically reinforce that it’s ok to fail as long as you try. This attitude helps motivate the animals to have good behavior without using negative reinforcement.
Earth Update
news & features
Introducing Earth Update, a new feature on global environmental news. To submit ideas for topics you’d like to learn more about, e-mail currentnews@eckerd.edu.
Genetically modified salmon may get FDA approval By Morgan Swim Staff Writer
photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
Will you prefer your salmon wild, pond raised or…genetically altered? The FDA is considering a genetically altered salmon to be sold as food for human consumption. AquaBounty submitted its product, AquaAdvantage Salmon, to the Veterinary Medicine Advisory Committee at meetings held Sept. 19 - 20. The following day, VMAC held a public hearing to focus on the labeling that will accompany the product if the FDA gives approval. A 60- day window is now open for public comments on the application. If approved, AquaAdvantage
Salmon would be the first genetically modified food approved by the FDA. The AquaAdvantage Salmon is derived from the Atlantic Salmon and is purported by AquaBounty and VMAC to likely cause similar allergic reactions in people who are already allergic to natural Atlantic Salmon. According to the FDA’s website, this is “because it is a finfish (one of the eight most allergenic foods in the U.S.), not because it has been genetically engineered.” The FDA’s website went on to state that their responsible is to “regulate the safety and effectiveness of the rDNA construct which is the piece of DNA added to an animal to change its characteristics or traits.” The process
of genetic engineering in animals for human consumption is monitored by the FDA because the rDNA “meets the definition of a “drug” under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.” One of many environmental concerns of genetically altered animals is the possibility of a modified specimen making its way to the ocean. If this were to happen with the salmon, for example, the genetically altered fish could potentially harm the genetic traits of the wild population. A legitimate concern, but VMAC released a statement that “AquAdvantage Salmon will be raised in inland tanks… and not be raised in ocean net pens.”
Invisible Children Face to Face Tour sheds light on educational needs By April Green Staff Writer Eckerd’s initiative for the Plight & Promise of Africa continued to call the student body to action by hosting the Invisible Children Face to Face Tour Sept. 28. The event was introduced by Seniors Lauren DeLalla and Erica Magnussun. DeLalla and Magnussun traveled to Uganda this summer on a trip cut short by bombings in Kampala, Uganda. Although their trip only lasted five days, the experience made a profound impact on both girls. Referring to the war-stricken Uganda, Magnussun said, “The people of Uganda are skilled, educated and self-sufficient. As a country, they have gone through tremendous adversity,
but they continue to be filled with hope.” The presentation by Invisible Children highlighted the Schools for Schools Program and the Legacy Scholarship Foundation. Both projects are rebuilding the educational opportunities in Northern Uganda destroyed during the war. The current facts about education in Northern Uganda are dismal: many students live in extremely close quarters to attend school or, cannot attend at all because of financial problems. While many Ugandan teens agree that education is the tool they need to impact their future, only 8 percent of girls attend a university. However, the war is not about statistics; it’s about putting faces with names. Monica was a recipient of a Legacy Scholarship at 15 and is tangible proof that teens of Northern Uganda appreciate the efforts of Invisible
Children. She is the only owner of a high school degree out of a family of ten children. Monica is now studying to be a preschool teacher, but said she “would not have made it without” her mentor Irene- a Ugandan college graduate who also spoke that night. At 33, this was Irene’s first visit to the U.S. Said Irene, “I count myself very lucky.” The take-home message of the night was delivered by Annie Long, an Invisible Children team leader for the Deep South. Said Long, “The worst thing you could do is nothing.” For more information, check out invisiblechildren.com. Friday, October 15, 2010
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news & features
“Reflect, Serve, Learn” Introducing Eckerd’s new QEP of Service-Learning By Laurel Ormiston News Editor
E
ckerd College’s “Reflective Service-Learning” Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP) launches this fall. This plan is an important component of the College’s SACS Reaffirmation of Accreditation. The Reflective Service-Leaning QEP will last five years. This fall’s goal is to launch an awareness campaign among faculty, staff and students to generate ideas for the new service-learning courses premiering in the fall of 2011. With the motto “Reflect, Serve, Learn,” the premise behind the plan is to “enhance the role of service-learning by implementing it earlier,” said Olivier Debure, director of the QEP on ServiceLearning. Currently, service-learning at Eckerd is mandatory only in senior year, via the required 40 hours of volunteer service in the capstone Quest for Meaning class. Under the Reflective Service-Learning plan, service hours would be an expected component of classes available from freshman year upward. Why choose service-learning over the other project proposals for Eckerd’s immediate future?
photo by Brian MacHarg Andrea Solazzo on a South Africa service-learning trip.
“International Service Leadership Program,” which Debure initiated for Eckerd. His involvement in servicelearning makes him well aware of the impact servicelearning can have on the student psyche. Under the service-learning QEP, changes in personal and cognitive growth will be measured. And measuring learning outcomes of embedding service-learning in the classroom is a primary goal of the QEP to help Eckerd retain its position as an accredited top liberal arts college. In addition, it may bolster student involvement off campus in the community or abroad. “I remember every year my students saying at the end of the course, ‘why didn’t we do this before?” said Debure of students in his Quest for Meaning classes.
“Because it is one of our strengths- we have a strong service entity at Eckerd College,” said Debure. Debure has 12 years of experience with international student programs. This winter, he will co-lead a trip to Ghana with Sophomore Daryl Binitie as part of the
photo by Laurel Ormiston Olivier Debure, Director of the service-learning QEP
Katie Herklotz on a service-learning trip to Argentina 6
Friday, October 15, 2010
photo by Emily Krumm
photo by Tess Busch Eckerd students in Immokalee for a servicelearning trip.
news & features
Dumbledore’s Army meets at Muggle School By Morgan Swim Staff Writer The first meeting of Dumbledore’s Army, Eckerd’s Harry Potter appreciation club, was held 10 p.m. Oct. 5. Just like the first meeting of Dumbledore’s Army in the Harry Potter series, the three leaders, Marybeth Dietrick, Zach Simandl and Isabella DiGregorio, were skeptical about how many people would show up. But the crowd that poured in hints that the D.A. will have no attendance problems. The atmosphere was anxious and exciting as happy students stood packed shoulder to shoulder in the student lounge. The first order of business was to sort Eckerd students into Hogwarts houses: Gryffindor, Slytherin, Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff. A short twelve question quiz substituted the magical sorting hat’s duty. So many students showed up that the club
actually ran out of sorting quizzes. After the somewhat chaotic sorting, club leaders announced intended future club events including a trip to the midnight release of the Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows film in November, a “Make your own butterbeer and various other Potter goodies night,” screenings of previous Harry Potter films in Miller Auditorium, trivia nights and an Eckerd version of the House Cup competition. Finally, a tentative trip to Universal Studio’s Magical World of Harry Potter Theme park is being planned. Any Eckerd students are welcome to attend the meetings on alternate Tuesdays. As one of the leaders, Simandl explained his hope that “this club will create a fun and exciting environment for students to both get involved on campus and to make friends with other students they otherwise would not have met in any other setting.”
Illustration by Morgan Swim
Quidditch Club lets EC join the phenomenon By Carver Lee Staff Writer Eckerd will soon experience a phenomenon already in place at universities as prestigious as Harvard, Middlebury and Yale: the illustrious sport of Quidditch. Yes, it’s the sport from the beloved Harry Potter series, and No, we don’t actually fly: but the Quidditch trend has caught on around the country and Eckerd is joining in. Started by Junior Katy Estes-Smargiassi and Sophomore Carver Lee, the EC Quidditch Club had a great turnout at the club fair, and hopes that enthusiasm will continue throughout the year and allow for an intramural set-up, with at least two separate teams that can practice and scrimmage together. The University photo by Laurel Ormiston of Central Florida and the University of Juniors Tess Busch and Emily Cohen display Spirit Week and Quidditch Florida both have teams that the club hopes to compete against in the future. Club pride.
Though the game is not actually played by flying on brooms, all players must run with a broom held between their legs. Slightly deflated volleyballs allow players to easily grasp the balls in one hand, and a skilled cross-country runner with a sock-ball hanging out of his shorts serves as the snitch. For those not in the know, capturing the golden snitch is the endgame of this sportmuch like securing the flag is in “capture the flag.” Though it sounds a little crazy, schools all over the country have photo by Laurel Ormiston created teams. The fourth annual Junior Emily Cohen soars above Kappa Field. Quidditch World Cup will be held in New York, N.Y. Nov. 13 - 14 and Harry Potter sport, contact Carver Lee at already has 60 teams registered to participate. Someday, Eckerd’s could be one celee@eckerd.edu. For more information, visit the International Quidditch Association of them. If you want to try your hand at the famous at www.internationalquidditch.org. Friday, October 15, 2010
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news & features
Results of fall club budget allocation$$$ A3 Active Minds Adventure Club African Interest Group Afro-American Society ACI Alpha Epsilon Delta Amnesty International Assoc. of Envi. Profs. Best Buddies Bipedal Society Brothers of the Leaf Campus Sustainability Congress CCJ College Republicans Colleges Against Cancer Creative Writing Club Crisis Kitchen Culinary Arts Club Dumbledore’s Army Earth Society EC Baseball Club EC Cheerleading EC Circle K EC Colorguard EC Dance Team EC FC Soccer Club EC Field Hockey Club EC Golf Club EC Homeless Outreach(ECHO) EC Hillel EC Longboarding Club EC Modern Dance Club EC Movie Critics EC Pick-up Club EC Pride EC Quidditch EC Road Runners EC Roller Hockey EC Rowing Club EC Skeet Club EC Triathalon Club EC TV EC Volleyball EC Women’s Soccer Club ECOS Exec. Vice President ECOS Student Senate ECOS VP of Academic Affairs 8
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250 0 0 400 15000 400 250 300 450 1300 600 100 250 1500 300 600 350 350 150 200 850 500 3500 1100 350 3000 1700 550 500 2350 900 250 0 0 100 5,200 150 400 500 0 400 500 0 250 600 23,500 13,000 38,000
E.C.W.W.A.D. Ekurd Voice Equestrian Club Exec. Council (President) Exec. Council (Athletics) Exec. Council (Communications) Exec. Council (Intern) Exec. Council (Parliamentarian) Exec. Council (Pet Council) Exec. Council (Public Relations) Exec. Council (VP of Finance) Garden Club Habitat for Humanity Herpetological Club Improv Club Inter. Christian Fellow. Intervarsity Men’s Group Int’l Student Association Japanese Culture Club Jui Jitsu Club Latin Dance Club Mac & Cheese Club Martial Arts Club Men’s Basketball Club Men’s Rugby Model U.N. Club Multicultural Arts Club ODK Operation Smile Outdoor Adventure Club Palmetto Productions Parkour Club Planeswalkers Pre-Health Club Review Rock Climbing Club (RCC) SAAC Saferide Save the Bay S.A.V.E.G.A.M.E. SCSB SIFE SSDP Surf Club Swim Club Swing Dance Club Tennis Club The Current
150 200 800 57,000 1000 750 38,500 500 250 1,500 500 1,300 450 900 1,000 500 300 4,500 400 600 500 150 2,200 500 8,500 100 1,000 550 0 400 106,000 250 350 250 7,600 300 750 15,000 300 800 450 4,500 200 3,500 1,100 1,000 500 12,650
Theatre Troupe Triton Wake/Kite Triton Terriblez Ultimate Frisbee Club WECX Women’s Lacrosse Women’s Resource Center Women’s Rugby Young Democrats Club 2 Complex
18,500 4,500 300 1,800 8,000 350 7,500 3,000 300 250
Spirit Week makes a comeback By Kristen Torres Staff Writer Some schools celebrate homecoming week. Here, at Eckerd, we celebrate EC Spirit Week, at least this year we do. ECOS and the senate have brought back an Eckerd tradition as old as “Homily Coming,” but for whatever reason, faded away. The capstone event of EC Spirit Week is the Triton Tip-Off at 9 p.m., Oct. 16, in the McArthur Gymnasium. This school spirit event, as with all other Homily Coming events of the week, is a “Punch” card opportunity. “I understand that EC Spirit Week used to be a big tradition here at Eckerd,” said Junior Nick Ochtman. “It’s going to be nice to see the revival {Homily Week}.” Don’t miss the last two EC Spirit Week Events: Friday, Oct. 15 EC Pride Day (wear your EC gear to show how much you love Eckerd!) Saturday, Oct. 16 Triton Tip-Off, 9 p.m. at McArthur Gymnasium. Wear your complex t-shirt and the complex with the most participation and pride will win a prize. Stay after for a party at the pool. 10 p.m. Grab your tent and sleeping bags for a night under the stars on Kappa Field for a campus wide camp-out to benefit Haiti.
Web print sytem means easy printing You can now print from your own computer to the print release stations in the library. No thumbdrives, no e-mailing files. You can print from your laptop while in the library or from anywhere on campus, then stop by a release station to print the job within 24 hours. To use this feature login to your Papercut account using the same ID and password that you use for email at http://papercut.eckerd.edu9191 To use: Select Web Print from the menu, Select the Submit Job link, Choose the desired Print Release Station, Select the number of copies, Then select the file from your computer and upload to complete the process. Again, you have 24 hours to stop by a release station to print before the job is deleted from the queue. Police Blotter Katherine Landry Ziskind, 19, was arrested Oct. 7 and charged with one felony possession of a controlled
substance and one felony possession of marijuana, according to the Pinellas County Sheriff’s report. Ziskind was released Oct. 8 on a surety bond.
viewpoints EDITORIAL
Gaga for gays Lady Gaga rallies against “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy By Alice Nordwall Staff Writer
her merely as an icon for pop culture, and although they don’t disregard her completely, whether or not they hear what she is saying is questionable. When the “Portland Press Herald” initially posted Lady Gaga made an appearance Sept. 20 in Portland, Maine, to speak out in favor of repealing the “don’t ask, information on their website about Lady Gaga’s appearance, the message boards were flooded with negative comments don’t tell” policy still concerning her imposed on the United sexuality and States military. radical appearance, Lady Gaga explained both in dress and the metaphor of her conduct. How can outlandish meat dress Gaga hope to reach she wore at the MTV a vast audience Video Music Awards, with her message claiming, “Equality is the when her presence prime rib of America, but alone makes for an because I am gay, I don’t argument? get to enjoy the greatest Despite the cut of meat my country fact that she was has to offer.” dressed down for the Clearly, Lady Gaga’s Portland event, she passion for the issue is still has a reputation sincere. But does her that distracts meat dress really draw from her political attention to the issues? argument and goals. Are her actions taken As unfortunate as seriously by anyone, by it is, people are political figures? Or does uncomfortable she only resonate with listening to someone her younger fan base? photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons that they can’t fit Gaga’s speech about into a box, and Gaga “don’t ask, don’t tell” is Lady Gaga speaking at National Equality March. refuses to be boxed. not her first appearance Despite what I in which she openly criticized politics. At a Phoenix concert in late July, Gaga see as her ineffectiveness to create change among older spoke against the SB 1070 immigration law enacted just generations, Gaga has amazing power and influence over a days earlier. “We have to be active. We have to protest. . . . young generation of new voters and new politicians. Gaga I will yell and I will scream louder,” she said. Although this introduces social issues to a population relatively unaware created a stir for a while, including the creation of free “NO or apathetic and gives them the tools to become actively SB 1070” temporary tattoo offers online, it seems that for involved. Today, we are seeing more and more young the most part, her political appeals have gone relatively people who are becoming actively involved in campaigns for social change, and with the encouragement of pop unrecognized. Although I believe wholeheartedly in what Gaga is figures, those numbers are likely to grow. I like to think that Lady Gaga is already aware that her standing up for and drawing attention to, it seems to me place isn’t in influencing politicians or talking to middlethat many adults, including politicians, see her as simply an outrageous celebrity with bold ideas and expectations aged working class citizens. It seems that her aim is to for America. Gaga is notorious for going completely empower the younger generation toward exercising their radical in her dress, her language, even her openness rights and their voices for speaking against what they about her sexuality. Most adults and political figures see believe is wrong or unjust.
“Amusing “This one is where you’re, like, WTF, right?” —A chemistry professor on solving a difficult stoichiometry problem.
“There are enough glass bottles and aluminum cans to support a third world country.” —A professor describing Nu after a long weekend.
“I can’t smile. It’s not that you all don’t amuse me anymore, I just have a root canal.” —A chemistry professor on her lack of emotion in class.
“What are the characteristics of Benjamin Franklin besides being a drunken man-whore?” —A sociology professor on Ben Franklin.
“Lindsay Lohan is great; she’s such a f-ing wreck.” —A sociology professor on societal norms.
Musings” Friday, October 15, 2010
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viewpoints EDITORIAL
Top 10 creepy things about
By Liz Tomaselli & Jaclyn New Viewpoints Editors 1. Your ex can check your wall-to-wall to see every conversation you’ve had with your hot new lab partner. 2. People can see everyone you’ve ever been friends with. No, seriously…even your imaginary friends. 3. You can keep clicking on pictures until you no longer recognize a single face or name. 4. All your friends know you’re procrastinating at 3 a.m. when they see the green dot next to your name on Facebook chat. 5. Your perfect night is ruined when your date sees you commented on his/her wall 30 seconds after you said goodnight.
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6. You have no idea how many times that freshman you bumped into at the salad bar has stalked your page. 7. You don’t have your real name on Facebook, so you know when someone went above and beyond the call of creeping to find you and “friend” you. 8. You get into a fight with your best friend because your news feed told you she was in a relationship before she did. 9. Just because you un-tag an embarrassing and/or incriminating photo of yourself doesn’t mean it disappears. 10. You don’t know three-fourths of your Facebook friends, but you spend three-fourths of your day looking through their profiles anyway…you’re a creep.
viewpoints
EDITORIAL
United Kingdom pavilion at the World Expo in Shanghai.
photo by Sean Lawlor
Larger nations disappoint at 2010 World Expo By Sean Lawlor Contributing Writer
W
hen I first heard that I would be in Shanghai during the 2010 World Expo, I was ecstatic. What were the chances that I would be able to see a global event such as the Expo in one of the world’s most exciting and modern cities? For those of you unfamiliar with the World Expo, it is a large exhibition of each nation’s contribution to industry and culture. These international forums have occurred regularly since the first Expo held in London in 1851. This year’s theme “Better City, Better Life,” showcased a combination of human innovation in urban planning alongside low carbon strategies to create a healthier lifestyle for the average dweller in the 21st century city. According to the World Bank, 55 percent of the world’s population now lives in urban areas, up from 29 percent in 1950. This means that urban planning has become an issue not to be ignored. This is a message China in particular must face. A large influx of migrant workers are flooding into Chinese cities and Shanghai alone is home to more than 18 million. As an international relations nerd who has a special interest in China, this was the chance of a lifetime. However, I left the Expo disappointed and slightly disheartened. The lines were ten times worse than any theme park I have experienced in Florida. It took an hour of being kicked, shoved and even spit on just to get into the Expo. On top of that, the Expo’s narrative of a smart, low carbon future in the world’s urban centers, which I had so admired, was for the most part ignored by the pavilions I visited. Instead, the world’s nations seemed to be flexing their competitive muscles at each other, flaunting large fancy buildings and elaborate affects in their presentation. China’s pavilion was the greatest disappointment to me. The red mega-structure that dominated the Expo’s skyline was intellectually hollow and without tangible evidence of China’s determination to reduce energy consumption. On entry, visitors were ushered to a theater where they were forced to watch a movie detailing the evolution of Chinese cities from 1980 to the present, thereby skipping China’s ugly past in the Maoist period. Then, doors opened to a room with a large multimedia replica of “Alongside the River During the Qing Ming Festival” surrounded by electrically lit trees, fancy blue light designs and a museum with some of China’s archeological treasures.
Following the corridor, visitors took a short ride through a sort of electronic wonderland called “The Dialogue.” “The Dialogue” did not tell me anything more than China is superior to the West when it comes to building a city. The last section was an interactive playground that gave viewers little tips for reducing the carbon footprint in their daily lives. Typical of China, the pavilion only focused on qualities meant to “wow” spectators without really answering to the Expo’s theme, “Better City, Better Life.” The USA Pavilion had a similar character to that of the China Pavilion: great presentation but little to deliver. The message of the USA Pavilion was quintessentially American with a focus on investing in individual innovation and collaboration between nations and businesses. Kobe Bryant, a favorite celebrity among the basketball-crazed Chinese, was there with a pleasant “Ni Hao” welcome. He was joined by several other Americans, from the average construction worker to the ambassador of China. The second section was accompanied by inspirational, filmed diatribes, including Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and President Barrack Obama who espoused the hopes and aspirations of American children about future life on earth. The pavilion continued toward yet another movie--as if you haven’t watched enough already. This one, “The Garden,” illustrated a young girl’s successful vision to create a park at the site of a dilapidated lot with the help of her local community. The message and presentation were overall inspirational, impressive and even a bit humorous. Yet, instead of having a final section dedicated to the green movement to show the revitalization of cities in the U.S., the closing presented a plaque of gratitude to every corporate big head responsible for the show’s funding, from GE to Visa, Exxon Mobile and Disney. In my opinion, this wasn’t a representation of the ingenuity of the American individual but a representation of corporate America’s dominance over everything that defines our modern consumerist nation. Again, the theme “Better City, Better Life” seemed ignored. Despite the many disappointments, there were a few impressive pavilions that stayed true to the message. The Netherlands’ Pavilion, “Happy Street,” was a funky and modern take on a traditional Dutch city street suspended off the ground in the shape of a figure 8, a number of good fortune in China. Along the street were examples of Dutch humor and randomness, including a swinging room full of clocks and a flamboyant mobile pipe organ that are common in Dutch cities. Also included were pieces of Dutch innovation regarding environmental technologies
such as an Ozone Monitoring System that would measure the amount of nitrogen oxide in the atmosphere around Shanghai as well as solar and wind powered race cars that can go as fast as 145 km an hour. The Dutch further impressed me by displaying a Dutch designed water treatment system that was used in the aftermath of the 2004 tsunami and the 2010 Haiti earthquake. When considering the overall design of the housing interiors, the Dutch team decided to use recycled wood and paper materials to build furniture and accessories. What impressed me about the pavilion was that the Dutch were able to employ their cultural characteristics to both humor and delight while at the same time adhering to the Expo’s overlying green theme. My personal favorite pavilion at the Expo was the United Kingdom’s. The British went about constructing their pavilion in a way that was incredibly creative and thought provoking. Realizing that the UK’s cities contain a considerable amount of area reserved for public parks, British designers decided to focus the pavilion on the concept of green space in cities and how plants can be used for common purposes. For instance, the ice plant can be used to insulate your home, lavender can be used to cure a headache, the money plant can be used to clean indoor air and the fibers of the silver fern can be used to create personal identification systems. Most intriguing to me was a fungus that could be used to power a PC by collecting heavy metals within water and soil. When entering the pavilion, visitors encountered maps of Edinburg, Cardiff and London with green park spaces highlighted. London is nearly 40 percent green space. The corridor then led to a giant transparent cube made up of thousands of individual rods. This cube was a reflection of the original Expo hall in London, the Crystal Palace. Inside the cube, visitors could view individual seeds in the ends of each rod from a variety of 900 different plants. All in all, there were 60,000 rods that contained as many as 260,000 seeds. The best part was that after the Expo, each rod was donated to a school in China as a gift to China from the UK. The Expo did have some positives, but it just took some effort to find the impressive ones that stayed on point. When considering international efforts to combat global warming and urban crowding, smaller nations appeared to have the most creative, insightful solutions. Friday, October 15, 2010
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viewpoints
PerspECtives Q: How do you censor yourself on Facebook?
“I censor my facebook in a couple of different ways. First, I set up my privacy settings so that only certain people can see everything. I also only put information that I want everyone to know on my Facebook, as opposed to the people that put every detail of their life on it.”
“I love to stay in touch with friends, and that is the main reason why I have a Facebook. I have it so that I can talk to my international friends and people who live hundreds of miles away. I have everything set on private for only my “friends” to see and I only accept people that I know or have seen around. Personal information wise, I don’t put up my cell phone, address or e-mail. I’m also very careful with pictures. I don’t put any up that could be embarrassing if my family saw them or that could get me into trouble with sports or job opportunities in the future. ” —Penelope Alexiadis, freshman
—Patrick Reed, junior
“On Facebook, I make sure to have everything set on private for only my “friends” to see. I only accept people that I know or have seen before and only some family members. I believe Facebook can be a starting point for friendship, but you can’t just be friends online; you need physical interaction.I refuse to put up any pictures that I would be embarrassed if my parents or grandparents saw, and I’m cautious about what information I put up, like my phone number or address.” —Claire Engelhard, freshman 12
Friday, October 15, 2010
“I don’t put up questionable photos and I don’t use profanity. If my friends put up a photo I’m not comfortable with everyone seeing, I ask them to take it down. Only my friends can view my photos and write on my wall.” —Jacque Steffen, sophomore By Jaclyn New and Kelly Grasty Viewpoints Editor and Photographer
arts & entertainment Review
Of Montreal’s new album By Sarah K. Yost Staff Writer While listening to Of Montreal’s newest album “False Priest,” several words come to mind: psychedelic, freaky and glitzy – like sticking your head inside a kaleidoscope. Past albums, “Hissing Fauna, Are You the Destroyer?” and “Satanic Panic in the Attic,” feel like a journey into a Lewis Carroll novel. Their newest masterpiece is more like a mythological progression fused with a reality TV show in musical form. Take a look at the lyrics from the song “Our Riotous Defects”: “When you dragged me into the bathroom at Tanika’s house and screamed at me for like twenty minutes cause I had contradicted you in front of your friends, I was like “oh” and then later that night at my apartment as punishment you killed my betta fish just threw it out the window.” This rambling line seems sinister, but strangely the tone is not accusing. Lead singer Kevin Barnes is simply stating the mystery girl’s psychological problems and how they are oddly attractive. The additions of Solange Knowles (sister of Beyoncé Knowles) in the song “Sex Karma” and Janelle Monáe in “Enemy Gene” provide a unique soul-pop combination. Knowles’ presence in the album is a fiery enhancement, yet the extension of her inner diva is surprisingly tender. Monáe, however, is the real jewel. She croons like a poetic melodious siren over the catchy up-tempo rhythm. Of Montreal takes a step out of their typically quirky spectrum to cultivate an incredibly interesting sound. Of Montreal doesn’t just play music; they present it with eloquence. Background funk pop and soothing vocals make for another fantastic album.
promotional photo
Review
Brilliant, exceptional By David Font Staff Writer Once in a while a film will come along and change the way we perceive ourselves and the world around us. “The Social Network” is such a film. After grossing nearly $27 million during its opening weekend in the box office, I can already see “The Social Network” headed to the Oscars. I was expecting it to be good, but I left the theater floating on cloud nine. Throughout the movie’s two-hour duration, I laughed, clapped and cheered long before the end credits rolled. The other two hundred or so members of the audience reacted the same way. Directed by David Fincher, “The Social Network” is a masterful stroke in his already admirable repertoire of fine filmmaking. Fincher was behind other cult classics like “Fight Club,” “Zodiac,” and “Se7en” (a personal favorite). Fincher’s previous film, “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,” was nominated for 13 Academy awards and went home with five. “The Social Network” contains several familiar Hollywood faces. Actors Jesse Eisenberg and Andrew Garfield give top-notch performances in their leading roles as Mark Zuckerberg and his co-founder Eduardo Saverin respectively. Justin Timberlake portrays the devil’s advocate role of Sean Parker very well. The story begins in the fall of 2003. Mark Zuckerberg (Eisenberg), a Harvard undergrad and computer programming genius, returns from a rough breakup with his girlfriend and begins heatedly blogging about her for the entire college to read. He then proceeds to create a degrading website designed
to rate women on their attractiveness. Eventually, he is called in for questioning by the administration, which only boosts his on-campus notoriety. Zuckerberg is eventually approached by the Winklevoss Twins (Armie Hammer & Josh Pence). To create the twin look, Hammer’s face and voice were digitally superimposed onto Pence’s body. The twins come up with an idea to create a new medium for social interaction between Harvard students. Zuckerberg agrees to help them, and after months of work, they go online in 2004 with “The Facebook.” In quick succession, Zuckerberg and Saverin get caught up in the whirlwind of business affairs. Once Sean Parker (Timberlake) comes onto the scene, everything changes. An idea that began in Zuckerberg’s dorm room soon became a global social network and a revolution in online communication. Six years and 500 million users later, Mark Zuckerberg became the youngest billionaire in history. The tagline of the film is “you don’t get to 500 million friends without making a few enemies.” Turning “friend” into a verb doesn’t make getting them easier. “The Social Network” certainly runs amok with greed, hate and backstabbing. The real question here is whether audiences will find the ability to sympathize with the main character after all is said and done. The film is heavy in technical, business and computing jargon, and the convoluted positioning of scenes might seem confusing to some. Yet I found it to be a fast paced and engaging story that unfolded into a vital, thought-provoking parable. “The Social Network” is a film that will define our generation. Fincher and screenwriter Aaron Sorkin promotional photo masterfully bring viewers along on an infectiously giddy and sharp-tongued journey of self-discovery and invention. But they also managed to infuse Zuckerberg’s story with a greater significance. Mark Zuckerberg may not be a larger than life character like Johnny Cash or Eminem, but his story is still important. Thanks to this amazingly crafted film, his onscreen portrayal will live forever in the ink of the Internet and the celluloid of cinema. Recommendations: “Citizen Kane,” “All the Presidents Men,” and “The Insider.”
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arts & entertainment
Horoscopes
Libra Sept 23 – Oct 22 Tarot reading: The Emperor If you think you’re doing poorly, it’s not true. Stop stressing. Believe in yourself.
By Jeralyn Darling
Virgo Aug 23 – Sept 22 Tarot reading: The Wheel of Fortune You have a very important question stewing. Ask now! Your answer is waiting.
Scorpio
Leo Jul 23 – Aug 22 Tarot reading: The Star Your confidence is overwhelming. Don’t get cocky. Keep your pride to yourself and smile all you want.
Oct 23 – Nov 21 Tarot reading: Strength You have conquered many obstacles. You are strong. Do not forget your softer side.
Cancer
Sagittarius
Jun 21 – Jul 22 Tarot reading: Death You are going through a rough spot. Take care. Go to a friend for support.
Nov 22 – Dec 21 Tarot reading: The Lovers You are comfortable where you are. Keep it up! Don’t change a thing.
Capricorn
Gemini
Dec 22 – Jan 19 Tarot reading: The Devil Lately you have been lacking selfconfidence. Speak up! You’ve got a lot of important things to say.
photo by Sarah Irwin Madame Tabule puts on her thinking cap.
Aquarius Jan 20 – Feb 18 Tarot reading: The Sun You are always willing to give someone advice. Be careful. Don’t get caught up in someone else’s drama.
Aries
Pisces Feb 19 – Mar 20 Tarot reading: Justice You have not been treated fairly. Do not retaliate; let Karma take its course.
Mar 21 – Apr 19 Tarot reading: The Tower Things are looking up, finally. Don’t boast. Maintain your confidence.
May 21 – Jun 20 Tarot reading: The World You are looking for an adventure. Don’t wait! Take a walk or plan a trip — the choice is yours.
Taurus Apr 20 – May 20 Tarot reading: The Fool You may have wronged someone in the past. You didn’t mean to. Try to make it right.
Review
“Let Me In” remake one bloody mess By Emma Lord Staff Writer
promotional photo 14
Friday, October 15, 2010
At first glance, “Let Me In” is a unique take on vampire flicks. But in reality, it is a remake of the Swedish film “Let the Right One In,” adapted by director Tomas Alfredson from John Lindqvist’s novel. During the 2008-2009 school year, Eckerd’s International Cinema Series screened the original version. The original has subtlety and superb cinematography. The remake does not. “Let Me In” is directed by Matt Reeves, and tells the story of a
lonely 12-year-old boy named Owen (Kodi Smit-McPhee) who lives in a small town in the mountains of New Mexico. Owen is fascinated by a strange girl named Abby (Chloe Moretz) who moves into the apartment next door. Abby, who, despite the snow, never wears shoes, encourages Owen to stand up to the bullies at school, and the two become friends. Eventually, Owen comes to realize that she is a vampire who has caused several recent murders in town. It is up to Owen to decide if he should continue his secret relationship with Abby. To be fair, “Let Me In” has an amazing cast that does justice
to each character. However, when compared to the original, it falls flat in every other aspect. There was a lot lost in translation from the Swedish version to the American remake. Both films take place in the 1980s, a time when the two countries were extremely culturally different. Distracting reminders of this rift cheapen the story. The film also relies heavily on special effects when it comes to the violent scenes. The original is equally disturbing but was accomplished with a more subtle approach. In the remake, when Abby attacks her victims, she takes on a demonic appearance. As a result, the film loses the
realism accomplished by the actors. Odd background music attempts to play up the “romance” between Owen and Abby. I feel like the director is hitting me over the head with blatantly obvious signals. Alfredsons’ film has an authentic feel due to its simplicity that makes the ending more natural and satisfying. Reeves’ film is overwrought with gimmicks and feels forced. “Let Me In” is a good vampire movie on its own. But if you’ve seen the original, only watch the American version if you like making fun of bad remakes.
arts & entertainment Review
“Life As We Know It” predictable but enjoyable By Sarah Malhotra Staff Writer What do a charming playboy and a control freak bakery owner have in common? Nothing, until the two suddenly inherit a child in the Warner Bros. new film, “Life As We Know It.” The film is part comedy, part chick flick with moments of real emotional depth as the two main characters learn that life will never quite be the same again. Holly (Katherine Heigl) and Eric (Josh Duhamel) are as opposite as night and day, sharing nothing but snarky comments and a bitter dislike for one another. The one thing the two do have in common is their dedication to their careers. Yet this all comes to a crashing halt when their two closest friends tragically die in a car crash – and the will names them both guardians of 1-year-old baby Sophie. promotional photo Aiming to respect their dead friends’
wishes, Holly and Eric put aside their differences and give parenting a try. The two move in together, despite their mutual aversion to one another, to do what is best for Sophie. During the unexpected journey of parenting, Holly and Eric deal with a wacky child protective services worker, even crazier neighbors, and the tough decision of what comes first: career or family? One might write the film off entirely as a chick flick with baby drama, but the story contains serious undertones about sacrifice and death. Infused with hilarious scenes and dialogue about anything and everything that new parents have to contend with, this film is completely unforgettable. “Life As We Know It” consists of the perfect balance of serious and light themes. The main characters experience real emotions, which carry more weight than those of the lighthearted supporting cast. The film also contains a taste of romantic
drama, as things heat up between Holly and Eric. Holly’s handsome new pediatrician boyfriend provides a rival for Eric. And Eric has to make a tough decision that could affect the rest of his, and his new “family’s,” life. Despite all of this, the direction of the film is predictable, but done in such a way as not to be boring. Although at times the plot is extremely transparent and predictable, something slightly unexpected will regain the viewer’s interest, whether it’s an 11-yearold “Baby Whisperer” working her magic on Sophie or Holly and Eric voluntarily watching “The Wiggles.” Overall, the film is predictable, yet enjoyable, heartfelt, humorous and definitely worth seeing. Prepare yourself for love, loss and laughter in a memorable film about the innocence of romance, the hardship of losing loved ones and the tricky trials of parenthood.
Review
“Wall Street” sequel doesn’t foot the bill By David Font Staff Writer These days, most sequels take place where the original left off, but not “Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps.” This sequel takes place nearly ten years after the first that’s practically a whole generation later. Gordon Gekko, played by Michael Douglas, is released from prison broke and without a friend in the world. This time around, the story doesn’t revolve around Gekko, but a character named Jake Moore played by Shia LaBeouf. Moore is a Wall Street trader who finds himself searching for better prospects and is conveniently engaged to Gekko’s daughter. He thinks he’s on top of the world until his boss/mentor commits suicide. Moore decides to turn to Gekko behind his fiancé’s back in hopes of two outcomes: first, that he can find out who was responsible for the death of his mentor, and second,
that he can alert the just going to blow right over your head. financial community to the upcoming financial Despite what the movie meltdown. tries to do, Douglas “Wall Street: Money remains in top form. It’s Never Sleeps” is a film clear why this character with high ambitions, and won him an Oscar in 1987. that’s rarely a bad thing. He is perfect for this role. But it seems that after Other than Douglas, the nearly twenty-five years only other actor in the film since the first, the only who really shines is Josh ingredient that still tastes Brolin as Bretton James, good is Michael Douglas the cutthroat financial as Gordon Gekko. wizz who hires LaBeouf. “Money Never Sleeps” The rest of the actors in tries to be timely and the film feel shortchanged promotional photo and at times almost like thought provoking, except none of it really caricatures. That being works in a coherent story arc. The characters said, whenever Douglas and Brolin aren’t never exhibit any change over the course onscreen, the energy of the film takes a of the film, and unless you understand serious dive. While I thought LaBeouf does something about the inner workings of a good job, and it’s nice to see him take on Wall Street itself, parts of the movie are a serious role, I don’t think he’s proven
himself yet to be a proper leading man. The plot of “Money Never Sleeps” is semi-coherent at best and the ending is way too conventional for my tastes. I understood perfectly what was going on, but I never cared because the film never took any risks. Director Oliver Stone knows when preaching is bad for movies, but for some reason he went right on down the rabbit hole anyway. Unfortunately, he hit a dead end halfway down. “Money Never Sleeps” may have seemed better on paper. On screen, money may never sleep, but I almost did. “Money Never Sleeps” is a disappointing sequel that held more promise than it actually delivered. Recommendations: “Wall Street (1987),” and “Boiler Room.”
Look for our Web Exclusive Movie Reviews at theonlinecurrent.com - Easy A — David Font - Legend of the Guardians: the Owls of Ga’Hoole — Shelby Howell - The Town — David Font Friday, October 15, 2010
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arts & entertainment
Review
Sex on the beach “Civilization V” conquers Dear Ally, I have a boyfriend back home but I’m crushing hard on someone here at Eckerd. I really like my boyfriend and I don’t want to ruin what I have with him but I want the chance to see other people while I can. How do I bring up the idea of an open relationship or taking a break without hurting him? Sincerely, Wannabe Free Dear Wannabe Free, Long distance relationships are tough, especially when you’re just getting to college. If you feel comfortable speaking openly with your significant other, then hopefully he or she will understand, or possibly even have the same feelings you do. The most important thing to remember regarding this topic is that communication is crucial. If you really don’t want to hurt your boyfriend, plan out what you’re going to say to him. Before you even consider asking him for an open relationship or a break, there are a few things you should ask yourself. Do you want something new and exciting or do you just need to be single for a while? You don’t always have to be in a relationship. Sometimes it is refreshing to mingle with no expectations. If he says he’s not up for a break or an open relationship, what will you do? Accept this and stay with him? Or decide you really want to explore and leave him? Be prepared to actually follow through. Relationships all have lines that can’t be crossed without permanent repercussions. Will suggesting a temporary break become a permanent one? Quite possibly. But if you’ve both agreed to an open relationship, the next step is to decide just how open each of you is willing to be. Certainly it is okay to hang out with someone and have a few laughs. Is kissing allowed? How far, sexually, is too far for the other to handle? Remember, you are trying not to hurt your boyfriend. Be completely honest when you are laying down the rules of this open relationship. Know what you are looking for outside of this relationship. Make sure he knows the boundaries that you think are acceptable. Repeat yourself if you think he may have missed something. You don’t want to end up in a fight when he finds out you’ve slept with someone else, if he didn’t know that was part of the bargain. Another thing to consider is whether or not you want to know what he is doing. Will you agree to keep silent about all the intimate details? After setting boundaries, set a time limit. Maybe he will be more up for it if he knows it will only be for two weeks or a month. Feel out how long you think it should be. Don’t make it a week since that only allows enough time to find a drunken hookup. But don’t make it a year, either, because you may as well just break up for good if that’s how long you want to explore other relationship possibilities. Once you’re on the break, consider how you’re feeling when you’re with someone else. Are you thinking about your old boyfriend? Or are you glad you’re free of him? Be honest with yourself. If all you can think about is your old boyfriend, I think you have your answer. A few summary words before I set you free: Plan what you’re going to say before you say it. Set boundaries and a time limit. Be honest with yourself and with your significant other. Keep his or her feelings in mind. Have fun and be safe. Good luck! Regards, Ally Jinn 16
Friday, October 15, 2010
By Samantha Hagar Staff Writer Civilization V is the latest and greatest installment in Sid Meier’s turn-based strategy series. Published by 2K Games (the genius developers behind the Bioshock series, Borderlands, Mafia II, etc.), Civ V adds a number of new features, including citystates, policies and a refreshing new game engine. Keeping true to the series, Civ V is a PC game in which the gamer controls a historical leader of his or her choice. The player either assimilates, destroys or amends his or her way to world dominance. City-states are tiny, independent civilizations with distinct personalities and bonuses (maritime, cultured, and militaristic) controlled by artificial intelligence who’s motives are to survive as a small nation rather than conquer. If you’re a ruthless and power-hungry leader (as I choose to be), conquered city-states can become invaluable annexed cities. City-states can also, however, become substantially powerful allies and produce troops for your nation. Policies are essentially level-ups for your civilization that are purchased with earned culture. These provide bonuses to enhance your units, culture or production of goods. The game engine not only improves upon the graphics from Civilization
IV but also changes the map grid to allow hexagonal instead of square tiles. This means that there are more strategic options for the gamer allowing your units can be more spread out rather than piled onto a single square. Of course, DirectX 10 and 11 did tend to be a little buggy. This game is a non-linear sandbox, which means there is no structured story and is reliant on the player’s choices. As such, the length, difficulty and even map sizes are customizable. Games can last from 1 to 10 hours and can accommodate all types of gamers from casual to competitive. While the single player was beyond enjoyable (and dangerously addictive), I was disappointed with the multiplayer. While the online and LAN play was sufficient, the lack of the hot seat feature at launch was a huge letdown. Hot seat, which allows two or more people to take turns playing on the same computer, was one of the best features in the Civilization series. Although there are hopeful reports of a patch release to update and tweak the multiplayer functions, we can only hope and play by ourselves for the time being. Overall, Sid Meier’s Civilization V is certainly worth the $50 and even the hours upon hours of RL you’ll throw away trying to bring Alexander the Great to his knees.
Review
Linger Lodge: an RV park diner By Samantha Hagar Staff Writer
hushpuppies. Growing up in the South, I am well accustomed to most of the meals on the menu, but my guests, who happened to be from out of state, Pulling into the graveled, dusty lot on which Linger were starting to question my sanity. They gazed Lodge Restaurant sits, I could hear the faint echo up at the eerie lifeless eyes staring down at their of the first few notes from “Dueling Banjos.” Since alligator chowder and watched as some boisterous 1968, Linger Lodge has sat near the entrance to the bikers burst through the door and headed to the bar. However, one bite RV campground of the of that chowder and my same name. I strolled friends were asking when past an aviary, home to we could come back. a variety of parakeets, I found dinner prices to chickens and peacocks be reasonable with dishes (not to worry, none of ranging from $6.99 to them are on the menu). $14.99. To top off the The original owner, perfectly blackened gator Frank Gamsky, was an photo by Samantha Hagar and homemade Old Bay amateur taxidermist, The welcome sign written in dead snakes. potato chips, we indulged so the whole restaurant in the restaurant’s signature River Bottom Pie – an is adorned with Florida wildlife that has seen better Oreo crust pie stuffed with coffee ice cream and days. From bobcats to squirrels to rattlesnakes to fudge. the elusive Florida Jackalope, you certainly won’t If you’re wondering whether to make the 40feel lonely with a hundred pairs of eyes watching minute drive from Eckerd, just ask Al Roker of you dine. NBC’s “Today Show.” He named Linger Lodge The blazing summer heat kept me indoors, but I “One of the Top Five Weirdest Restaurants in the toured the outside deck, which overlooks the scenic Braden River. Kayakers and boaters often dock at Country.” Forbes.com also considers it one of the Linger Lodge to enjoy a relaxing meal. If you’re “Most Unusual Restaurants in the World.” This restaurant is one of Tampa Bay’s bestlucky, you may even spot some wild boar. The menu contained several dishes not typically kept secrets, so be sure not to miss it. Directions seen at your average chain restaurant – like fried and a menu can be found on their website: www. alligator and frog legs, BBQ potato chips and lingerlodgeresort.com.
arts & entertainment
Events
Oct. 15 — 28
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
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12 p.m. Yoga at the Dalí Salvador Dalí Museum
7:30 p.m. Thrill the World Thriller Dance Practice The Pier
7 p.m. Bone Thugs-N-Harmony The State Theater
6 p.m. Hey Monday The State Theater
7 p.m. Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde Studio@620
EC Pride Day — wear Eckerd gear to show school spirit 7 p.m. Taqwacore: The Birth of Punk Islam Miller Aud. (CPS) 9:30 p.m. Kickin’ It Old School w/ DJ Wood Triton‘s Pub
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9 a.m. — 2 p.m. Saturday Morning Market 290 First St SE St. Petersburg 9 p.m. Triton Tip-Off McArthur Gym 10 p.m. Homily Week Camp-out Kappa Field
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6:30 p.m. Tosti’s Charity Tasting Tosti’s Spirits & Fine Wine
9 a.m. — 2 p.m. Saturday Morning Market 290 First St SE St. Petersburg
7:30 p.m. Heissler Organ Concert SPC Music Center
8 p.m. Young Jeezy Jannus Landing
8 p.m. An Adult Evening of Shel Silverstein Bininger Theater (CPS)
8 p.m. An Adult Evening of Shel Silverstein Bininger Theater (CPS)
4 p.m. Festival of Hymns First Presbyterian Church (CPS)
24 1 p.m. Music Fest on the Water The Pier 2 p.m. An Adult Evening of Shel Silverstein Bininger Theater (CPS)
8 p.m. An Adult Evening of Shel Silverstein Bininger Theater (CPS)
7:30 p.m. From Cockle Collectors to Jewelry Makers Miller Aud. (CPS)
25 7 p.m. Sublime with Rome Jannus Landing
26 6:30 p.m. Naturalist Night Out Boyd Hill Nature Preserve 7 p.m. Evolution of Neural Signaling Molecules Sheen Aud.
27 7 p.m. MGMT Ruth Eckerd Hall
28 7 p.m. Coming to America: African Refugees Uprooted Fox Hall (CPS)
To advertise your event with The Current, contact Current Entertaiment at currententertainment @eckerd.edu Friday, October 15, 2010
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arts & entertainment
PET BLESSING photos by Jeralyn Darling
Students brought their pets to the Hough Quad to be blessed by Campus Ministries Oct. 6. St. Francis medallions were given to each pet, and their owners enjoyed a vegan buffet and great music.
Saint Francis watches over mice.
Senior Joanisa Tenreiro fashionably sports her snake Isis.
Sophomore Andrea Grzeslo holds a mother mouse and her babies. Freshmen Lacie Marrs-Waterman and Kate Astor with their snake Deuce. Junior Sarah Harlan enjoys some puppy love from Watson.
Freshman Sally Burnette hangs out with her birds Blanche and Stella. 18
Friday, October 15, 2010
Associate Chaplain Libby Shannon cuddles Beecha the hamster.
sports
photos courtesy of Eckerd College Athletics Above: Former second baseman Matt Abraham was taken by the Toronto Blue Jays in the 49th round of the 2010 MLB amateur draft. Right: Outfielder Chris Clinton, taken by the Baltimore Orioles in the 23rd round.
Eckerd Baseball Players taken in the MLB Amatuer draft since 1980 (round taken) 1980: Gary Nutter, Detroit Tigers, P (22)
Two Tritons taken in MLB draft
1981: Pat Castiglia, Boston Red Sox, 1B (13)
By Will Creager Sports Editor
1983: Mike Lopez, Baltimore Orioles, OF (8)
The 2010 baseball season was a rough one for the Tritons, as they went just 3-21 in conference play and finished in last place in the nine-team Sunshine State Conference. However, the season still finished brightly for the team, because for the third time ever, and the first time since 1990, multiple Eckerd players were selected in the Major League Baseball Amateur Draft. The two players who were drafted this past summer are Chris Clinton and Matt Abraham. Clinton, an outfielder, was selected by the Baltimore Orioles organization in the 23rd round, while Abraham, an infielder, was taken in the 49th round by the Toronto Blue Jays organization. Clinton and Abraham both started all 48 games for the Tritons this past season. In 188 at-bats, Clinton hit .314 with seven homeruns, 36 RBI’s, 34 runs scored and 17 steals in 23 attempts. The majority of his playing time was spent in centerfield. Meanwhile, Abraham hit .305 with a team-leading 13 doubles, 4 homeruns, 30 RBI’s, 29 runs scored and 7 steals in 9 attempts while mostly playing second base. Clinton first realized that getting drafted was a realistic possibility when he returned from an injury this past fall,
and there were six Major League scouts there to watch him play. It was Abraham’s breakout sophomore year that made him realize he might be drafted one day. Both players struggled a bit in making their professional baseball debuts this past summer. Clinton hit .192 with one homerun and ten RBI’s in 27 games with the Bluefield Orioles in the Rookie Appalachian League. In 33 games with the Blue Jays affilliate in the Rookie Gulf Coast League, Abraham hit .193 with no homeruns and four RBI’s. The biggest changes that Clinton has had to deal with in making the jump from college baseball to professional baseball is “having baseball games every single day with only 1 day off a month, and seeing more consistent good pitching.” The hardest adjustments for Abraham were not only the increase in the competition, but also communicating with new teammates, “especially the guys from places like the Dominican, Venezuela and Puerto Rico.” Both Clinton and Abraham were honored just to get drafted. As Clinton put it, “It is amazing to be one of the 1,500 players out of 80,000 to be selected in the draft.” However, they both know that they have their work cut out for them to one day reach their dream of being called up to The Show.
1982: Gary Melillo, Baltimore Orioles, C (13)
1984: David Crossley, St. Louis Cardinals, P (7) 1985: Scott Shaw, New York Yankees, SS/3B (11) 1986: Mark Morawski, Baltimore Orioles, 2B (22) 1989: Ismael Cruz, Philedelphia Phillies, SS (21) 1990: William Morris, Boston Red Sox, 3B (25) 1990: Ronald Watson, Los Angeles Angels, P (37) 1991: Jim Mecir, Seattle Mariners, P (3) 1995: Tom Russin, Baltimore Orioles, 1B (29) 2000: Tom Muldoon, Detroit Tigers, P (23) 2010: Chris Clinton, Baltimore Orioles, OF (23) 2010: Matt Abraham, Toronto Blue Jays, 2B (49) Friday, October 15, 2010
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Friday, October 15, 2010
Women’s rugby dominates in debut By Lincoln Andres-Beck Sports Writer The date was Oct. 2, 2010. The place was Kappa Field. Around 2 in the afternoon, before a crowd of nearly 100, the EC Sirens Women’s Rugby team took the field for the first time in an official rugby match. The crowd support was huge at the game and forward Lauren Van Woudenberg thought it played a big role in the outcome of the game. “It gets you amped up” she explained. And amped they were, jumping ahead early and holding on for a 29-17 victory over a more established University of Miami squad. Van Woudenberg also said in an interview that playing well in their first official match was good, but made much sweeter by the “taste of victory.” Having a big win like that is a big confidence booster for the team. According to Van Woudenberg, the team isn’t dwelling on their victory too long, as their focus will shift to the Florida Cup Tournament, which will take place on Oct. 17. They plan to take the season match by match and do not plan on getting cocky after their
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initial win, but feel they have the ability to make it. Mitchell Crowley, the initial founder of the Sirens 3 years ago, said she “was floored” by the big win and thought the team went “above and beyond” her expectations with the impressive win over Miami. There will not be any more home games for the Sirens this semester, but look for matches at Kappa field come spring. For anyone who is interested in joining the Women’s Rugby team, practices are held Monday through Thursday, 5-6:30 p.m. on Kappa Field.
photos by Doug Thayer Far left: Katie Neff, 4, goes for the ball during a throw-in. Middle left: Neff fighting a University of Miami player for the ball. Bottom left: Cory Hawkins picks up a loose ball. Below: Neff receives a throw-in. photo by Ethan Cooper Right: Hooker Ashley Modesto runs through a tunnel of Eckerd fans to celebrate the win.
Friday, October 15, 2010
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EA Sports nets another great game By Lincoln Andres-Beck Sports Writer EA Sports has done it again. The powerhouse video game developer has managed to make their best soccer game better with FIFA Soccer 11. While very similar to FIFA ‘10 in game play, there were a few minor tweaks. The newest edition of the classic console game has made many improvements upon previous versions: modifications to the game controls, improved A.I. (artificial intelligence) play and adjustments to some of their newer game options like Career Mode. The playing controls have been improved to allow increased control over the players and the ball. Movement of the right analog stick gives even greater ball control. I did, however, encounter one major problem: while within several yards of an opposing player, mine would slow down significantly. Some delay caused by a defender is acceptable, but the game portrays this lag in an unrealistic manner.
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FIFA’s new A.I. defense is much better than previous versions. Team defense is stronger, and beating a defender one-on-one remains difficult. But the referees’ tendency to call touch fouls really slows down the pace of the game. Career Mode gives you the option to tinker with a fully customizable player in the newly improved Creation Center. They removed the close action camera view so you can’t get the same in-game effect as you would from playing the same mode in FIFA 10. Gamers have always had hundreds of teams and leagues to choose from, but this year’s version exceeded my expectations. The stadium architecture and atmosphere are very authentic as well. Though I was unable to test it out, there is also an online multiplayer mode. This allows 22 online players to each control their own player on the field. The concept sounds very intriguing but I don’t currently have an Xbox Live account. All in all, this year’s edition to the FIFA series was another revolutionary game. But there is still room for improvement in making the game more realistic.
courtesy of EA Sports
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Men’s rugby gains experience in loss By Lincoln Andres-Beck Sports Writer Eckerd College Men’s rugby began their season on the road in Orlando at UCF in a disappointing fashion, falling to the Knights 32-0. The young and inexperienced Eckerd team was plagued by penalties that cost the team throughout the match, but gained valuable game experience moving forward. According to Captain Leslie Claridge, the game served as a wakeup call to the team, as well as giving the many newer players valuable experience. You “can’t teach rugby without the game,” Claridge said, because of the speed and physicality of the sport, and the contact that occurs in games. Claridge also said he looks at this year as a rebuilding year, with several key players abroad this semester and many freshman just picking up the game. The rugby team doesn’t have a specific coach this year, so both Claridge and his C ocaptain, Julian Buck, are coaching. Claridge is optimistic about the future potential of the team and thinks they will be successful in the future if they can keep their players.
Early goals send Lynn past men’s soccer Courtesy of Eckerd Athletics Lynn University scored three goals in the opening 23 minutes before holding on to a 4-2 win over the Eckerd College men’s soccer team on Saturday evening at the Turley Athletic Complex. Stefan Wolf scored two goals, while Kyle Conrad had a goal and an assist to lead the Fighting Knights (7-3, 2-1 Sunshine State Conference). Scott McCubbin provided the other Lynn score. George Marchant and Anthony Arico each scored for Eckerd (5-5, 2-3). The Tritons out-shot Lynn 19-9, including a 15-1 mark in the final half. But Eckerd could not shake a sluggish start, which saw Lynn put eight shots on goal in the first half. The two teams combined for five goals in the first 27 minutes. The Knights opened the scoring in the 13th minute on a goal from Conrad. Lynn scored less than two minutes later thanks to McCubbin via a Robert Carrick assist. After Wolf made it 3-0 in the 23rd minute, the Tritons got on the board when Marchant notched his fourth goal of 2010. Wolf, though, got the momentum right back with an unassisted score in the 27th minute. Arico provided the only score in the second half with another unassisted goal in the 58th minute. Lynn goalkeeper Alessandro Salvatore made three saves to preserve the victory.
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Men’s Soccer
Women’s Soccer
Volleyball
Sunday, October 17 v. Montreat College 1 p.m.
Sunday, October 17 v. Montreat College 11 a.m.
Saturday, October 16 @ Valdosta State 7 p.m.
Wednesday, October 20 @ Saint Leo 7 p.m.
Wednesday, October 20 @ Saint Leo 5 p.m.
Tuesday, October 19 @ Tampa 7 p.m.
Monday, October 25 v. Ave Maria 7 p.m.
Friday, October 22 v. Clearwater Christian 7 p.m.
Saturday, October 22 v. Nova Southeastern 7 p.m.
Friday, October 29 v. Barry 7 p.m.
Sunday, October 24 @ Thomas 3:30 p.m.
Saturday, October 23 v. Barry 4 p.m.
SSC Championship Tuesday November 2 TBA TBA
Friday, October 28 v. Barry 7 p.m.
Friday, October 27 v. Saint Leo 7 p.m.
Friday, October 15, 2010
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The Official Student Newspaper of Eckerd College
photo by Doug Thayer Senior Liz Vander Clute tackles a University of Miami player during women’s rugby’s home debut.
Former Tritons selected in MLB draft page 19
EA Sports scores with FIFA 2011 release page 22
Men’s rugby shut out by UCF page 23