vol105issue05 by The Recorder

Wednesday, October 1, 2008

http://clubs.ccsu.edu/recorder/

Sports: CCSU, NHL hockey analysis See Sports pull-out Pages 8-14

Volume 105 No. 5

Forget Paris: Entertainment Editor Nick Viccione’s Q & A with a local band Page 20

Puerto Vallarta: How does the little Mexican restaruant on the Berlin Turnpike fare? Page 19

Remembering Prof. Brian O’Connell Amanda Ciccatelli News Editor

Faculty, students and friends of the late professor Brian M. O’Connell gathered on Wednesday to remember his influential presence at CCSU and share memories of the highly regarded professor. O’Connell worked in computer science and philosophy at CCSU as he taught courses in subjects such as computer ethics, jurisprudence, professional responsibility and programming and robotics. Before he started his career in education, O’Connell was a lawyer as well as a systems programmer and network designer. Upon the introduction of the memorial, Dr. David Blitz of the philosophy department emphasized the positive memories of people who knew O’Connell. “What’s the most important are the living memories we have,” said Blitz, who also spoke of O’Connell’s many accomplishments. Blitz also expressed the hope that O’Connell’s Web site will be well preserved since the work of O’Connell was very important and should be made available to students and colleagues. “He was the only person I have known that completely reinvented himself,” said Blitz. Dr. Richard Judd, former president of CCSU, said that O’Connell had the thoughts and interests of what a university should strive to be. “He had a contagion of intimacy,” said Judd, who described O’Connell as a person who loved his career and his life and had compassion about every single thing he did.

Dr. Tim Craine participated in the memorial held for the late Prof. Brian M. O’Connell.

Edward Gaug / The Recorder

portunities to teach with O’Connell. Craine said he was impressed with O’Connell’s ability to expand the knowledge of his students. “He had a broad range of interests and expertise,” said Craine. He also explained that while O’Connell was battling cancer, he kept up his spirits until he died. “We have lost a great teacher and a dear friend,” said Craine. “O’Connell’s students were highly engaged in becoming original think-

ers,” he continued. Craine also pointed out O’Connell’s immense contribution to the community with his research and wide range of abilities. “He lifted my spirits so often,” said Philosophy Professor Dr. Eleanor Godway. According to Godway, she and O’Connell used to converse about their favorite philosophy books, and now, she thinks of O’Connell whenever she reads those books.

“The one thing that endeared me about [O’Connell],” continued Judd, “was his love of students.” Judd characterized O’Connell as “effervescent” and, looking up to the ceiling, thanked O’Connell for sharing his positivity and accomplishments with everyone. “Thank you for letting us be part of your continuity,” he said. Dr. Tim Craine, mathematical sciences department chair, also spoke to audience members about his op-

“We loved him there,” she said. “There’s a big hole in the philosophy department.” Professor Robert White of CS shared his experiences with O’Connell, whom he met when O’Connell was 14 years old. White explained that while he was working at Wesleyan University O’Connell would visit the planetarium and ask White questions about outer space. O’Connell even suggested that he and White build a spaceship together. Although that curious 14-year-old grew up and that spaceship was never built, White did eventually build one himself and has since called it the memorial to O’Connell. Wendy Peak, a friend of O’Connell’s, said that the students at Central were one of O’Connell’s greatest passions. “He worked tirelessly to launch their own great careers,” she said. She also talked about a recent fundraiser that was created in honor of O’Connell, which will include a lecture series of his favorite topics and fields of study and a scholarship available to CCSU students. Anna Gawkowska, a 2007 CCSU graduate, described her former professor O’Connell as “a truly kindred spirit.” Gawkowksa explained that if she needed to send her professor an email at 3 a.m., she and her fellow students could expect a reply from him at 3:15 a.m. that was thoughtful and involved. “He was an educator to the root of his being,” she said. According to Gawkowska, O’Connell empowered students in his classroom. O’Connell not only taught students that academic growth was important, he believed a student’s personal growth was just as important. “He was proud of watching us grow,” she said.

Obama’s Plans for Community Service Central Author Discusses Resonate with Students Global HIV/AIDS Amanda Ciccatelli News Editor

The lack of Americans’ community involvement has influenced Senators Barack Obama and Joe Biden to create a plan for United States public service in hopes to influence Americans to work together for the benefit of one another and the improvement of the U.S. Members of the CCSU College Democrats support Obama’s plan for integrating community service with a college curriculum and feel that it would be a great way to get extra experience outside school. “It’s so easy to get involved in your own life and not see the suffering people,” said College Democrat Mallory Howard. “It is also a good incentive to stay in school and graduate.” According to Obama and Biden’s plan, Americans should work together to improve the country. They want to expand community service across the country and plan to develop a Classroom Corps to improve schools, especially underserved schools. A large part of Obama and Biden’s plan will be to integrate service with learning and to expand service-learning in schools. The goal will be that middle and high school students must complete 50 hours of

community service per year by following a set of national guidelines to ultimately offer better programs for schools. Green Job Corps, an energy saving program will be implemented in which disadvantaged youth will be offered jobs to help get experience in growing career fields. Obama and Biden want to expand the program that gives disadvantaged youth a chance to finish their high school education, learn valuable skills and help build houses in their communities that are affordable called the Youth Build Program enabling kids to grow and learn construction job skills while finishing high school. The plan will also offer community service to college students for benefits. According to Obama’s website, “Obama and Biden will establish a new American Opportunity Tax Credit that is worth $4,000 a year in exchange for 100 hours of public service a year.” They want to make a minimum of 25 percent of college work-study funds for support public service opportunities instead of jobs around campus like the dining hall. Tens of thousands of AmeriCorps applicants are turned away due to insufficient federal funds for service leaving 500,000 people who have served, according to Obama’s Web site.

Service has been in Obama’s life since he moved to the South Side of Chicago and directed the Developing Communities Project. He improved living conditions in poor neighborhoods characterized with crime and high unemployment and even passed up law firm jobs after graduating law school to head Project Vote, helping register 150,000 new African American voters in Chicago, which came to be the most ever registered in a single local effort. As stated by Obama in his 2007 Mt. Vernon speech, “Your own story and the American story are not separate – they are shared. And they will both be enriched if we stand up together, and answer a new call to service to meet the challenges of our new century.” Clean energy is another concern of the American people, so according to the Web site, Obama and Biden want to create “a Clean Energy Corps to conduct weatherization and renewable energy projects.” The plan will even engage retired Americans, 55 years and older in service by using skills and knowledge for the betterment of the country. A new and improved Peace Corps is on their minds as well. Obama and Biden plan to double the See Obama’s Plans Page 2

Amanda Ciccatelli News Editor

Cynthia Pope of the Geography Department shared her newly released book to an unusually full audience who came to hear about her intriguing title, “HIV/AIDS: Global Frontiers in Prevention/ Intervention”. Her book contains 46 chapters written by policymakers, scholars and HIV/AIDS activists from around the world. It contains facts, statistics

and research along with stories of people who have experience HIV and AIDS first hand. Pope and the two other editors of the book, Renee T. White and Robert Malow, wanted this book to be more interesting to students in the classroom than most. White’s research has looked closely at African American adolescents in the New Haven area, while Malow has worked on the neurophysiology of HIV and the biological impact of using drugs. See Central Author Page 3

U. Wisconsin Dean Makes Walgreens Dismantle Beer Pong Display Julie Strupp

Badger Herald University of Wisconsin

U-WIRE - A controversial beer pong display at a local Walgreens came down over the weekend after leaders said it promoted binge drinking. The display in the Walgreens in the new University Square complex featured ping-pong balls and red plastic cups. Although there were no connections to alcohol in the display itself, some University of Wisconsin students said it was obviously promoting the popular drinking game beer pong. Other students said they

felt it was silly to make Walgreens take the display down. “[Beer pong] is a student pastime,” said UW sophomore Alex Pruzinsky. “Like any other business, they should be able to cater to their customers.” Pruzinsky said other businesses, specifically liquor stores, have similar displays and are not forced to take them down. UW Dean of Students Lori Berquam first heard about the display from a concerned parent who has a freshman daughter at the University of Wisconsin. See Beer Pong Page 3

News

THE RECORDER Wednesday, October 1, 2008

The Recorder

Student Center 1615 Stanley Street new Britain, CT 06050 T 860.832.3744 F 860.832.3747 ccsurecorder@gmail.com http://clubs.ccsu.edu/ recorder/

Editor-in-Chief Melissa Traynor managing Editor Peter Collin Art director Geoffrey Lewis Associate layout Editor Edward Gaug Copy Editor Aril Grain Entertainment Editor Nick Viccione lifestyles Editor Jane Natoli news Amanda Ciccatelli Sports Editor Kyle Dorau opinion Editor Marissa Blaszko Editor-at-large Karyn Danforth Web Editor John Vignali illustrator Stefano Delli Carpini

Staff

Brad Cooper Ryan Yeomans Sarah Bogues Mallory Costa Caroline Dearborn Lindsay LeFort Tiffany Failla Steve Packnick Jeanne Bujalski Misbah Akbar P.J. Decoteau Sean Fenwick Michael Walsh Robert Burke Shauna Simeone Gabby Pierce

About

The Recorder is a studentproduced publication of Central Connecticut State University and does not necessarily represent, in whole or in part, the views of CCSU’s administrators, faculty or students. The Recorder articles, photographs and graphics are property of The Recorder and may not be reproduced or published without the written permission from the Editor-in-Chief.

The purpose of The Recorder is to approach and define issues of importance to the students of Central Connecticut State University.

UConn Starts New Program to Help Troubled Public Schools mEAGHAn Roy-o’REilly The daily Campus university of Connecticut

U-WIRE – A new University of Connecticut initiative has been launched to help restructure struggling Connecticut schools, the Neag School of Education announced. The program, named the Connecticut Alliance for CommPACT Schools, will help troubled public schools research, redesign and rebuild their programs. Eight low-scoring schools were chosen to be part of the coalition in its flagship year: Barnum and Longfellow Schools in Bridgeport, West Side Middle School and Washington Elementary School in Waterbury, Hill Central and Davis St. Corner School in New Haven, M.D. Fox in Hartford and Shoreline Academy in New London. The CommPACT program gives each school the opportunity to make its own choices in policies, budget allocation and curriculum. What makes the initiative unique is that some of the power that would normally rest with the state government

and school districts is now in the hands of schools themselves. “Hill Central has been labeled as a failing school for the last eight years,” said Glen Worthy, principal of Hill Central School in New Haven. “One hundred percent of our students are on free or reduced lunch. The school is located in a high poverty and crime area. We believe that teachers, not outside consultants, are the experts when it comes to our children, and we know the needs of the students of Hill Central. If given the chance, teachers can make a difference in student achievement.” According to the press release on Neag’s CommPACT Web site, “Never before in Connecticut or U.S. history has a coalition formed involving teacher’s unions, school administrator organizations, school districts and a research university to collaborate on a mission to improve public schools and close the achievement gap.” The Neag School of Education is responsible for the research and planning of the entire campaign. They will provide the resources to help the schools allocate their funds – including start-up grants from both

Health Department Holds Health Care Discussion JEAnnE BuJAlSki Staff Writer

The Connecticut Department of Public Health held a group discussion on home health care at the student center and the advantages and disadvantages. The talk was held at the Philbrick Camp room in the Student Center before a group of 25 people. Lea Hendricks, a visiting nurse from southeastern Connecticut, spoke about the situation of the elderly who are receiving home health care. Hendricks listed the services that health care organizations provide including seasonal flu vaccinations, infection education and emergency planning for loved ones. According to Hendricks, the difference between regular health care and home health care is that

there is a more unstructured environment. Patients can receive care in the comfort of their own home instead of remaining at a hospital all day. Being an employee of a home health care organization, Hendricks continued, can provide numerous benefits including working from home and flexible hours. Many employees of home health care can have second jobs because of the flexibility of the organization. Hendricks also discussed why it is so important to plan ahead for a loved one, as it takes a lot of stress off the families and provides for a smooth transition from hospital to a patient’s home. Home health care services can also provide hospice services. More information can be found on the Connecticut Public Health website, at www.ct.gov.com/dph.

the NEA Foundation and the Connecticut General Assembly – as well as monitor their progress and growth. “Poverty is at the top of the list [of the problems facing urban schools today], which affects all aspects of a child’s life – from early access to quality preschool education to health care,” said Richard Schwab, Dean of the Neag School of Education. “We cannot break the cycle of poverty unless we improve our educational system for these children and adolescents.” “We are committed to long term reorganization and improvement, not a quick fix, which has been so popular in the past,” Schwab con-

tinued. “Our job is to provide these schools with the most current research in closing the achievement gap as well as providing on-site support and mentoring to implement the needed changes.” The CommPACT program comes at a critical time for public schools. The testing gap between low-income and high-income students in Connecticut is thelargest in the country. “We are attempting to sell the most important or valuable commodity in the world,” said James Adams, the principal of Longfellow School in Bridgeport. “That commodity is education and its relevance to survival in the 21st century.”

Continued from page 1

gether with Keene’s democratic clubs and organizations. The College Democrats also want to work with fellow CCSU clubs such as PSA, VAO, College Republicans, BSU, and NAASP in campaigning until Nov. 4.

Obama’s Plans Peace Corps to 16,000 by 2011. The work will be done with leaders of other countries for an international network of overseas volunteers. Sabrina Summit of the College Democrats agreed with Obama’s service plan and explained that she would not only take part in the community service for the scholarship money, but also for the experience itself. “I think it is a fantastic idea. It’s also something that can help students find out what they want to do as a career,” Summit said. According to the Vice President of College Democrats Sarah Horrax, there are already some classes at CCSU that offer extra credit opportunities for participating in community service within the Habitat for Humanity chapter at Central. “I also think it would be great to get started earlier than high school or college. I student teach with seventh and eighth graders who are already doing community service called Citizens for Action,” she said. Horrax said if a child is introduced to community service at a young age, then it will make benefit them in the future. In order for Obama’s plan to be successful in college, Horrax, Summit and Howard jointly agreed that it must be fun for students to do. Having fun while helping people who are in need, Howard said, “makes you feel like a better person.” As they follow Obama until the election, the College Democrats have plans of doing some campaigning themselves. Horrax explained that the club wants to get more involved with the CCSU’s City of New Britain as well as travel to Keene, New Hampshire where they plan to get to-

CCSU Police Department’s Adult Arrest/Citation Log Patrick G. Baker, 19, of Longmedow, Mass. was charged with possession of alcohol by a minor on a public street on Friday, Sept. 26. Baker has an Oct. 10 court date. Thomas M. Delaney, 20, of Woodbury was charged with two counts of criminal mischief in the fourth degree on Friday, Sept. 26. Delaney is scheduled to appear in court on Oct. 10. Brandon Dipinto, 19, of Wethersfield was charged with possession of alcohol by a minor on a public street on Friday, Sept. 26. Dipinto has an October 10 court date. Alexandra A. George, 25, of West Hartford was charged with operating under suspension and operating a motor vehicle while using hand-held mobile telephone on Thursday, Sept. 15. George has an Oct. 3 court date. Christopher Griffiths, 20, of Enfield was charged with larceny in the fourth degree and breach of peace on Friday, Sept. 26. Griffiths has an Oct. 8 court date. Devon M. Harrison, 20, of Enfield was charged with interfering with an officer and breach of peace on Friday, September 26. Harrison is scheduled to appear Oct. 8. Brian J. Teetman, 21, of Ansonia was charged with Permitting Minor to Possess Alcohol on Thursday, September 25, by Ofc. Carlos Gil. Teetman has an October 10 court date.

THE RECORDER / Wednesday, October 1, 2008 / NEWS

Central Author Continued from page 1

The editors’ goal was to target students, advocacy groups and the general public. “It is very different than what I teach in the classroom,” Pope said. “We tried to cover most of the world, which was extremely daunting.” After a long road of research, hard work, writing and revising, Pope is proud of her accomplishment. “This is a project that I started many years ago,” she said. Her research began in Venezuela in 1989 where AIDS was simply diagnosed as the Flu. In 1997, Pope’s work took her to Cuba where AIDS was at the lowest rate in the entire world.

Beer Pong

Continued from page 1

“The display is marketed in a predominantly first-year student area, very few of whom are 21,” Berquam said. “And the display was obviously indicating something to do with alcohol.” Berquam attempted to contact the store’s manager last Thursday but was only able to speak with the assistant manager. The manager has since taken responsibility for the display. Walgreens officials were not available to comment, but employees confirmed the display was taken down. Pruzinsky said asking Walgreens take the display down is not going to stop people from playing the game. “Students are going to play beer pong regardless,” Pruzinsky said. Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk is another opponent to the display. “Our impression is that although Walgreens is a good company, the display seems to send the wrong message,” said Josh Westcott, spokesman for Falk. This message, Berquam said, is one that promotes heavy drinking, which can put students’ safety at risk. “This is something that we as a campus continue to struggle with,” Berquam said. “I’m concerned about the safety of all our students, and things like this heighten my concern.” While the display itself may not be a huge issue, both Berquam and Falk agreed that it is indicative of a greater problem: alcohol abuse. “[The beer pong display] is a good marketing ploy, but I don’t know if it’s necessarily a good thing for a business to promote,” said UW junior Garrett Notstad.

“Cuba has been leading my research,” she said, “and made me want to know what makes certain groups socially immune to HIV.” Originally discovered in San Francisco and Africa, Pope called HIV “the modern plague.” She explained that after HIV was first present in the Belgian Congo, the disease eventually spread from animals to humans. According to Pope, in 2007, 33 million people were living with HIV, while 15.5 million were women. Since 1981, 25 million people have died from AIDS, said Pope. At the end of 2007, women accounted for 50 percent of all adults living with HIV worldwide and 59 percent in sub-Saharan Africa “In developing countries about10 million people are in need of AIDS drugs and only 30 percent are receiving drugs,” she said. UW sophomore Brett Johnson agreed that while the display was a good marketing ploy, the Midwest’s drinking culture “could be a serious issue — though it depends on the individual.” Falk is currently immersed in an initiative to address alcohol abuse in Dane County aimed at promoting a cultural shift in attitudes toward drinking.

A large portion of her book discusses HIV and its impact on women as Pope posed the question, “Why are women having higher HIV rates around the world?” In her research, Pope found that educated women are at a much lower risk for AIDS no matter where they live in the world. However, she emphasized that gender empowerment is a huge issue in all countries. One type of HIV prevention, condom promotion, can be complicated. In many places they are not easy to access, men may refuse them, the culture may not approve or women may simply want to get pregnant. According to Pope, HIV prevention techniques have been highly successful in parts of the world including Thailand and Uganda. In Thailand the HIV rate was very high, particularly among prostitutes. By the 1990s, the Thailand government instated HIV prevention programs through international funding. Pope explained the women who ran the brothels made it mandatory for all clients to wear condoms. “You need a government that wants it,” said Pope for this type of prevention to work. In an excerpt from one of the book chapters, Dr. Jonathan Mayer of the University of Washington tells a story of a woman named Nima who was battling AIDS without enough funding to help her heal.

“Though adequate health care facilities exist to treat her problem within three kilometers, she cannot afford the $10 a day for hospital care that she needs, or the $25 a month that she needs for medication, and nobody will pay for her. So she, like thousands of other people in Nima, will die unpleasant deaths,” it reads. “Uganda had one of the highest rates of HIV in sub-Saharan Africa,” said Pope, until they came up with a different approach for HIV prevention called the ABC approach funded, in part, by the U.S. ‘ABC’ stands for “Abstinence, Be Faithful, Use a Condom.” Uganda primarily promoted B and C, which enabled the rate to decrease substantially, according to Pope. More recently, the rates are rising again because many groups and government organizations are only concentrating on abstinence instead of A, B and C. Looking towards the future, Pope predicts that China, India, and Central Asia will have high HIV rates. In some countries behavioral and cultural change is ultimately very difficult to achieve because of entrenched gender norms, she explained. According to Pope, one country that does not attach stigma to a person with HIV or AIDS is Cuba. They have universal health care and they have approached HIV as a disease just like any other. “Our [U.S.] approach,” Pope said, “is an individual approach to behavior change.”

Call for Entries

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“People always associate alcohol abuse with the campus and downtown area,” Wescott said. “But the truth is, it’s a countywide issue.” According to Wescott, there were more than 3,000 arrests and citations for drunken driving in Dane County last year. “These are not statistics we should be proud of,” Wescott said. Falk’s $250,000 initiative released last Wednesday includes additional patrols for drunken drivers on Friday and Saturday nights, an early intervention program to prevent middle school students from abusing alcohol in future years and an emphasis on changing the cultural acceptance of alcohol overconsumption.

Call for Entries

Helix Magazine DEADLINE

October 20, 2008

Helix Magazine CCSU 1516 Stanley Street P.O. Box 4574 New Britain, CT 06050

Art, essay, poetry, ﬁction, non-ﬁction and plays. helixmagazine@gmail.com

DEADLINE

October 20, 2008

Helix Magazine CCSU 1516 Stanley Street P.O. Box 4574 New Britain, CT 06050

Art, essay, poetry, ﬁction, non-ﬁction and plays. helixmagazine@gmail.com

4 THE RECORDER Wednesday, October 1, 2008

Editorial

Editorial/Opinion carry on with dreamy speech and Obama’s hopes, nor are they appropriate for more of McCain’s promises to vets, and vets only. When asked about the fundamental differences between them, and the point was brought up many times, the Senators did differ in their opinions of the Middle East, but these were expected. Underlining the predictability, Sen. Obama declared that he had insisted on more troops deployed to Afghanistan instead of Iraq. “I’ve been saying this for a year,” he announced. On the other side of the aisle, McCain volunteered his anecdote here and there, outlining the foreign countries he’s visited. He said that troops were praised as liberators and he guaranteed American victory.

When given the opportunity to outshine and outwit the other, no candidate really took a hold of his lectern and outshined our outwitted during Friday night’s Presidential debate. These Senators remained stiff on their plans, whether specific or general, mostly the latter, and moved carefully throughout the debate with visible hesitation and contemplation of what to say. And this is the one hour and a half where their words and personalities really matter. Given the situation on Wall Street and the occasional reference to “Main Street”, Senators Barack Obama and John McCain were asked to weigh in on the new bailout plan to solve the crisis. Repeatedly, they strayed from the question, toting

each’s strategy to address the problems before America fell into this ditch of a financial crisis or how the other would cut earmarking. McCain could have waved his fists when he talked about the government’s out-of-control spending, but there was nothing new here. There was no spark when Obama reiterated the fact that he’d like to lower taxes for small businesses and eliminate tax cuts for those “big companies who send American jobs overseas.” We’ve heard this before. At least three times moderator Jim Lehrer asked the candidates what they would have to eliminate from their plans in order to accommodate for the financial crisis once on office. Obama used it as an opportunity to talk about what he knows he’d

Letter to the Editor

A Shabby Office is No Art Studio

I applaud CCSU for its decision to withdraw support for a League of Women Voter’s-sponsored debate after the LWV decided not to invite Green Party candidate Harold Burbank II and Independent Party candidate Thomas Winn. Many LVW chapters are inclusive and fair in who they invite to local debates, but in this case the requirements set up for an invitation are needless and exclusive. The voters of Connecticut’s 5th District deserve to hear all four candidates speak on the issues. Although the debate may not happen, there will still be a good amount of campaigning and partybuilding on campus this fall by the very parties who benefit from exclusive debates. CCSU has both a university-sponsored College Democrat and College Republican organization. I ask your readers to help level the playing field by organizing a campus Green Party chapter. Students who are interested in organizing a group that truly stands for peace, social justice and grassroots democracy can e-mail campus@gp.org for assistance. Thank you, Brian Bittner Office Assistant Green Party of the United States Washington, DC

Letter from the Editor We currently do not have access to our Web site on the CCSU club server and haven’t since it crashed over a week ago, but we are working on bringing our site back up. Please disregard all information posted on the club Web site; its only content is the home page and broken links from our May 7 issue. Even if it means looking into other ways to post stories and multimedia to the Web outside of CCSU’s resources, we are considering all options. Although the individual links to stories aren’t available, the entire PDF from each issue will continue to be posted to a blog to allow online readers a chance to view the issue. The paper’s PDFs reside at therecorder.tumblr.com along with other updates from the week on our twitter account, twitter.com/therecorder. We are also looking into obtaining another blog in our search for the best way to bring readers additional content. Expect an update soon on our situation as we experiment with our options. Thank you for your patience, Melissa Traynor Editor-in-Chief

Gabby Pierce Staff Writer

This semester, the CCSU art department has been given studio space at the ITBD building in downtown New Britain. About a dozen students, along with professor Mike Alewtiz, fought for that space in the spring of 2008 and their efforts were rewarded. But in spite of their hard work, and this is no fault of those who put it in the time and effort to win students this space, there are some critical issues regarding the functionality of these rooms as studios. First, the studios are simply offices that have been emptied out. This might not sound bad, but considering the specific quality of space that is needed to make a sufficient fine arts studio, it is actually a tough situation to work with. The rooms have no props, no storage space and no ventilation. Props are fundamental for setting up still-lifes. Furthermore, those painting in oils have no place to store their paintings between sessions. This is critical, as oil paint does not dry for weeks and any transportation runs the risk of the painting being smudged and ruined. Lastly, the materials, which are used for painting in oil, give off extremely toxic fumes. One capful of mineral spirits can fill the room with its stench for hours. Without proper ventilation or at the very least a fan, the students are forced to breathe in these fumes straight from the stagnant air. Another issue is the awful lighting. As one would expect with emptied office rooms, the only lights available are fluorescent. This type of lighting offers inadequate shadows and washes out any colors. Now, one might suggest turning off the lights and using lamps. However, there are

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have to keep instead and we should “make sure we’re not shortchanging long-term priorities.” McCain followed suit and said he’d have to keep care for veterans and mumbled something about how the U.S. healthcare system should not fall under the government’s supervision. They repeatedly refused to discuss anything real and were often reminded by Lehrer that the main focus was to talk and debate. The questions are asked for a reason – these are the concerns on every one’s mind. We need to know how our next president will approach an unsolved crisis, as stated by Lehrer, and we need to know what their plans are when the $700 billion weight is dropped in their lap. We need specifics. The debates are not the time to

two things that would interfere with this as a solution. One issue is that there are no lamps, the other being that the rooms are lined with windows that look out into the hallways that are also lit with fluorescent lights. The strongest complaint among the figure drawing classes was the low ceilings in their room. Without a higher ceiling the model is unable to raise his/her arms above his/her head. Without that ability there is a significant amount of information related to the human form that is lost. All of these problems could be easily fixed if it weren’t for the biggest issue of all: a complete lack of communication between the art department and those who gave students the classrooms. The largest problem any students have thus far faced in the new building involved me personally. As a class, we began talking to the building’s receptionist about keeping the building open on weekends, should we need the time to work on our paintings. We were then informed that the ITBD building was open from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on a particular Saturday, and that we should have no issues with access on that day.

Another student and I showed up at the building just before noon, and were working on our paintings on the second floor. About an hour later I attempted to go out to my car to get some supplies and I found that all the exits were immovable and the other student and I were actually locked inside the building. It took an hour on the phone with the police to get someone to let us out of the building, after which we were told that we had to leave and that the building was only open until noon. No one had informed us that we were supposed to sign in on a sheet near the front entrance in order to alert the guard of our presence. The following Saturday was a similar situation. We requested the building stay open until 3 p.m., but the guard was, again, unaware of this and instead left at 2 p.m. This time we were aware of our need to sign in and therefore did not end up locked inside the building. The message sent here is essentially that art students are on a much lower level of priority than the students taking other courses. Although the studio space was initially promised to advance painting students, it has been instead used as space to try to compensate for the fact that our

The closest they came to a real scenario where one story met its contradiction was the duel of the bracelets. Two candidates, two parties, two mothers, two dead veteran sons and one difference: McCain clearly wants the fight to go on, pressing on so that each death is not in vain, while the mother Obama met handed him a bracelet with her own dead son’s name, and wished that no other family experience the same. These debates are also not the time to tow the conservative or liberal lines. Americans need a decisive, strong and bold leader, and after this debate these candidates look as though they are shying away from those qualities. As for the next debate, this is a challenge for them prove otherwise.

Maloney Hall is both falling apart and is too small. It is clear that those responsible for giving the art department this space are unappreciative or unaware of the needs that are inherent to a functioning art studio. If there was a little more care and a little more communication, then these issues could be avoided. For now, we’ll take what we can get, but we’ll more than likely need to push a little further.

Say What?

Q: What do students think about the newly

allocated art studio space?

“I didn’t feel like paying the city of New Britain four dollars to park here, so I take the shuttle. Today was the first time I missed it.” -Scott Carr, sophomore, art

“Why don’t we just have [class] in the other building? There’s clearly two rooms available.” -Lauren Hoganson, junior, art education

“It could be cleaned up... I can’t really see the difference I guess.” -Julie Manning, junior, art education

“I feel like this place is stifling. I don’t feel like we have our own space.” -Kate Bugnacki, super senior, art

“I think it’s good that we have extra space, but it’s not 100 percent appropriate for art. We should still just be happy – we could just have what we had.” -Sherry Boyd, grad student, art education

“It’s a pain getting here. I prefer going to the other art building on campus – there’s hardly sinks here.”

-Mathew Corsetti, junior, art

“I think the initial idea of studio space for graduate and undergraduate students was a good idea, though the shuttle and transportation for the students has a lot of inconvenience involved.” -Matt Robinson, junior, art

THE RECORDER / Wednesday, October 1, 2008 / OPINION

Obama: Healthcare for Everyone…Except Unwanted Babies Shauna Simeone Staff Writer

Most people are familiar with the debate over abortion, but many are unaware of an uncommon outcome that may occur: abortions can be born alive. In one type of abortion, called “live birth abortion,” doctors irritate a woman’s cervix and cause it to open early, delivering the baby prematurely. The babies are not killed in the uterus, but die either during the birth process or soon afterwards. In these cases, doctors and nurses do not provide any medical treatment to these babies in order to carry out the original intent of the abortion, and many of the infants suffocate soon after. In 2002 congress passed the Born-Alive Infants Protection Act. This legislation states that all infants born alive were given full legal rights and should, therefore, be medically treated. The bill was passed 380 to 15 votes in the

House of Representatives and passed unanimously in the Senate after a provision was added so that it would not infringe on the rights granted from Roe v. Wade. This piece of legislation was even supported by pro-choice Democrats such as Senators Hillary Clinton, Joe Biden and Ted Kennedy. While in the process of passing this legislation, a nurse name Jill Stanek testified before Congress about the horrors she had witnessed when this procedure was performed. Stanek explained that after a birth the parents had the option to hold the baby in a towel until they died. If the parents did not want to, a nurse could take over this responsibility. In the case that the nurses were too busy, the babies were wrapped in towels and left in the Soiled Utility Room until they died. At the hearing, Stanek spoke of an instance where a nurse accidentally threw an aborted baby into a trashcan. After she realized what she had done, the nurse searched through the trash and mistakenly dropped the baby out onto the floor.

Another nurse from the same hospital testified in front of Congress to relate her experiences. Twice, she walked into the Soiled Utility Room to find live aborted babies lying naked on the counter. At the time, Sen. Barack Obama was serving in the Illinois state Senate where a similar bill was proposed entitled the Induced Infant Liability Act. Obama voted “no” to granting protection to these infants. Two years later a piece of legislation that was identical to the federal version of the bill was brought to the Illinois Senate. Obama voted “no” once again stating that, “it would essentially bar abortions because the equal protection clause does not allow somebody to kill a child, and if this is a child, then this would be an antiabortion statute.” So according to Obama’s standards, when does a human gain its rights? Although answering this question may be “above his pay grade,” his voting record leads one to believe that even after a baby is out of the mother’s womb, Obama

believes that they should be denied the right to life. It seems hypocritical that the same man that preaches about the necessity to provide healthcare to all Americans is the same man who voted to deny care to babies fighting of their lives. How can Obama differentiate the humanity of these neglected infants or any other sick baby? Apparently, the only difference is that these “born-alive” babies were born by mistake. They weren’t supposed to live, but the fact is that they did. It seems Obama believes that this is sufficient grounds to deny any treatment to these infants. There still remains a lot of debate on when life begins but most rational people believe that human rights should be granted at least by the time birth occurs. If Obama can’t protect the rights of helpless infants, he is not someone equipped with the character to run the country.

Knock Down Barriers

U.S. Depends On, Should Reward Foreign Workers Marissa Blaszko Opinion Editor

Stefano Delli Carpino / The Recorder

Protesting 101: Take Note, Pro-Lifers Marissa Blaszko Opinion Editor

Around Connecticut, Catholics have begun a “40 Days For Life campaign” as part of a national right-wing effort to overturn Roe v. Wade. Of course, Catholics have been trying to end legalized abortion for about as long as the assorted left has been trying to end US imperialism. The pro-life Hartford protests, however, featured little more than a dozen religious zealots silently holding signs that proclaim “Pray to End Abortion.” Instead of actually attempting to rally support for their cause, talk directly to voters or make their voice known to elected officials, the Catholics have decided to pray. The right, it would seem, hasn’t quite figured out how to effectively get a point across. While Sen. John McCain is taking some time off of his campaign to work on the economy, he could be much more effectively using every camera pointed towards him as a propaganda tool to further his conservative economic poli-

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cies. Wouldn’t that help the cause he’s working for? Likewise, The Hartford Courant photographer that covered “40 Days For Life” captured little more than a middle aged women standing on a street corner, rosary beads in hand, having a chat with God. Surely, they could have made better use of the attention. Both sides will agree: a lone protest will do nothing to end a struggle. Instead of public prayer, the Catholics should be concentrating on public rallies to garner both media attention and civil participation. Afterwards, use the boost to shed light both on the cause and an actual protest, where a couple hundred close friends stand outside a governor’s office with a bullhorn and list of demands. The purpose of protests, it should be noted, is to rally support and show voters the power they can find in the streets. When the Iraqi Veterans Against the War lead an impromptu protest to the Republican National Convention, they should have set an example for all other political activists around the world. The Republican leadership had two choices at the event: either fire on veterans or listen to their demands. Checkmate. Why the pro-lifers haven’t gotten more creative is a real question. Although the answer might have something to do with the fact that the Catholic Church hasn’t actually done anything worth noting since the end of the Crusades, their struggle needs a new angle. How one could put a fresh spin on a severalthousand-year-old viewpoint might be a tough problem to tackle, but it’s an option worth examining at the very least. The protests around Connecticut are scheduled to continue both into and after election season, and will probably continue to be ignored by all except for a few local and school newspapers. But unless protestors are banking on the Catholic God coming down and permanently disenfranchising all of blue New England’s voters with some plague or another, 40 Days For Life might want to try a new tactic.

When Hurricane Ike hit, it should have taken the red states by surprise in more than one way. Of course, the thousands of residents that either purposely ignored the evacuation or underestimated the power of the storm probably didn’t expect the amount of damage that Ike did. But the real shock here should be, at least to the rest of the nation, how this historically conservative part of the country is rebuilding after the storm. One of the strongest planks in Sen. John McCain’s campaign is his never-wavering stance on unauthorized immigration, particularly from Mexico and Latin America. According to his Web site, McCain wants to build “physical and virtual barriers.” However, after Ike tore through a large portion of Texas, the Associated Press reported that Latino immigrants – both documented and undocumented – were being hired by the same voters who support McCain to do an equally large proportion of the rebuilding. When a homeowner is faced with fixing their own damaged roof or crumbling garage or what AP reported as “as many as 100 day laborers” in front of a nearby Home Depot, the choice seems obvious. Many of the homeowners, one may assume, are middle class and need to work for a living. With a partially destroyed house, they did what needed to be done. There are enough cases made in the AP article to understand not only the need for cheap labor, but to understand how unauthorized Latino workers are willing to work for lower wages than American-born workers – something that many Americans believe is a problem. The fact that low-wage Latino workers are undercutting American workers who expect a higher standard of living is not actually the root problem; the fact that the higher-paying industrial jobs are being outsourced is also not the problem. Both of these cases are actually symptoms of the job sector’s real problem. McCain is right about one thing: our border system is broken. The solution, however, isn’t to build larger walls and fill up the moats with robotic alligators.

If the United States was to completely open up immigration from Mexico, the Mexican workers would no longer be willing to work for lower wages. In Mexico, workers could threaten to strike or just leave for our country because of their new opportunity, forcing employers in the southern country to raise wages. In the United States, the foreign workers could unionize along side of American workers without fear of prosecution. Then, the unions could fight to guarantee workers’ safety, health benefits and living wages – solving another large problem facing our nation’s work force. Thus, both nations’ workers would be at an equal advantage – something that could end up favoring the more skilled and presumably American workers. In addition, companies would no longer be able to outsource semi-skilled factory jobs to our neighboring country. After wages have evened out, there would be no reason to do so. The problems opening up our countries boarders would solve would eventually help out every part of our economy, minus the top two percent who, quite frankly, don’t need it. Of course, Sen. Barack Obama doesn’t exactly meet McCain head-on. “We have economic and humanitarian responsibilities as well,” McCain is quoted on his Web site, “and they require no less dedication from us in meeting them.” Again, McCain can’t help but let the truth out once in a while. There is, in fact, a humanitarian crisis at hand. All over the country, as in post-Ike Texas, Hispanic and Chicano workers are being exploited. They lack legal representation and protection, and often fail to seek medical attention. All of this comes from supposedly taking “American jobs” and not learning the language? Blaming a minority for the financial ills that are a product of our own economic model is a fascist policy that is harming workers all over the world. The economic ills we face are not the fault of foreign workers, but of our anarchistic economic model that favors underpaying workers and outsourcing jobs. A presidential candidate has yet to come forward in favor of real solutions. Unfortunately, it will take an actual maverick to give America’s immigration policies the change people can actually believe in. No matter which candidate is elected this November, these problems will likely not go away.

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THE RECORDER / Wednesday, October 1, 2008 / SPORTS

SPORTS MLB Playoff Preview Page 11 NHL 08/09 Preview Page 12/13 NFL Week 4 Predictions

Page 8

Photo: Conrad Akier

THE RECORDER / Wednesday, October 1, 2008 / SPORTS

Pick Your Poison

NFL Predictions for Week 4 Each week the following four editors will put their pick prowess on display against fellow CCSU students. Think you can do better? Send us YOUR picks before the start of the games each week and we’ll print the results. A leader board will be published and the leader at the end of the semester goes off to Christmas break with all the bragging rights and a prize to be announced. Send comments or questions regarding this weekly feature to ccsurecorder@gmail.com

Peter Collin

Kyle Dorau Sports Editor

Associate Layout Editor

Entertainment Editor

Kansas City at Carolina

Carolina

Chicago at Detroit

Chicago

Green Bay

Managing Editor

Atlanta at Green Bay

Edward Gaug

Nick Viccione

San Diego at Miami

San Diego

Seattle at N.Y. Giants

N.Y. Giants

Seattle

N.Y. Giants

Washington at Philadelphia

Philadelphia

Tennessee at Baltimore

Baltimore

Tennessee

Indianapolis at Houston

Indianapolis

Tampa Bay at Denver

Tampa Bay

Denver

Buffalo at Arizona New England at San Francisco Cincinnati at Dallas

Buffalo

New England

Dallas

Pittsburgh at Jacksonville

Pittsburgh

Jacksonville

Minnesota at New Orleans

Minnesota

New Orleans

Minnesota

Tampa Bay def. Denver

Dallas def. Cincinnati

No one likes to give the Tampa Bay any credit, but the Bucs are a scrappy bunch and the Broncos didn’t exactly prove themselves to be world beaters in their loss to the lowly Chiefs.

Will someone ask Chad Ocho Cinco how to say “Cincinnati is a grease fire of a team” in Spanish? Dallas rolls over the Bengals by at least two touchdowns.

Pick of the Week

This Week’s NFL Prediction Leader Board Rank

Name

Total Points

Current Week

Kevin Petruzielo

Ed Gaug

Kyle Dorau

Gary Berman

Carey Brimmer

Anthony Gonsalves

Nick Viccione

Jason Beaumier

Marc Chouinard

Edward Homick

Ryan Kennedy

Peter Collin

Alex Waters

Melissa Traynor

We are seeking Staff Photographers.

All people interested must be able to provide their own equipment. Staff Photographer’s position would include

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A basic knowledge of

Photoshop CS3 and/ or Aperture is neccessary.

After a disappointing loss to the Skins, T.O. and the Cowboys are going to come back to demolish a hapless Bengals team that couldn’t beat UConn’s football team right now.

Carolina def. Kansas City Do you really think the Chiefs are for real after beating the Broncos last week? Me neither. Carolina wins big over K.C.

THE RECORDER / Wednesday, October 1, 2008 / SPORTS

UVA Cavaliers Defeat Central in 4-0 Shut-out Karyn Danforth Editor-at-Large

In their first meeting with University of Virginia since 1997, the UVA Cavaliers shut out Central 4-0 at their home Klockner Stadium this past Tuesday. Klockner Stadium is a landmark for soccer in the United States. Home to one of the top ranked Atlantic Coast Conference teams, the University of Virginia Cavaliers; the squad boasts an amazing record of nine ACC titles and five NCAA Tournament championships. Last Monday, Sept. 22, the Central Connecticut Blue Devils embarked on a ninehour bus ride to arrive in time for a match-up against the Cavaliers on Tuesday night. With a North England Conference title and advancement in the NCAA Tournament to the Sweet Sixteen under their belts, the Blue Devils were meeting up with a team they had not seen since 11 years. “Virginia is a top notch team,” remarked Coach Shaun Green. Sitting on the bus, Green explained how he had studied the last couple of Virginia games. “They’re one of the quickest teams I’ve seen in my college career,” he said. Making a short stop in Rahway, New Jersey, the Blue Devils did a meet and greet with a crowd of middle school-aged soccer players practicing during the afternoon. Rahway is where Edwin Recinos lives, a former teammate of Greens. Recinos is involved with Central’s squad in practically every aspect of his life, including his wife and kids, who travel and support the team whenever they can. Recino jumped aboard the bus and the long journey ensued. Arriving in Charlottesville, Va. early in the morning, the team was exhausted and only looking forward to a six to seven hour slumber – the following day, getting ready for the match required plenty of breakfast, lunch, hydration, and naps. Tuesday afternoon, the team was ferried to Klockner for a warm-up. Everyone including

Photo: Conrad Akier

Midfielder Raphael Guimaraes sidesteps Cavalier defense.

the coaches expressed their envy of the University’s field. The turf was hug-worthy as many teammates sprawled out on the field and others walked around, admiring and catching every angle of the monumental field that has hosted 27 NCAA Tournament matches and has held up to 8,000 fans. Seven o’clock loomed around the corner, and the stadium began to fill with Virginia’s faithful followers adorned in orange shirts. UVA apparently does an impressive job of attracting people to come out for games and holds

an array of fan related activities all throughout the games from one dollar hot dog and soda deals to rocketing memorabilia into the crowd with t-shirt guns. As loud music pumped out of the sound system, the introductions began, and with the calling of each name, a video screen built into the intricate scoreboard flashed pictures and video of their beloved Cavaliers. Having watched Virginia’s warm ups, there was a feeling in the air that this team was going to be something else; something that had the poten-

Photo: Conrad Akier

Devils Slay Saints, Look Forward to NEC Play Peter Collin Managing Editor

On Saturday the men’s Blue Devil Soccer team took on the Siena Saints at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield for a home-away game. Rain washed out their game on Friday, but the rain hardly put on damper on the Blue Devils fifth victory of the season. Central’s record now stands at 5-2-1. It wasn’t until October in the 2007 season that the Blue Devils managed to earn this victory. At that point Central was in a desperate battle

for a spot in the Northeast Conference Tournament. It seems unlikely that they will have to claw their way into the post season this year. Through their first eight games Central has been impressive. After a defeat at the hands of the University of Virginia on Tuesday night, the Blue Devils bounced back against the Saints. Senior Yan Klukowski tallied his team leading fifth goal to get the Blue Devils on the board. Senior David Tyrie was the star of the game after he tied the game in the 82nd minute and won the game in overtime.

Coach Shaun Green was happy with his team’s effort after they went down early. “We didn’t see that initiative that first 20 minutes,” said Green. “We went into the locker room and regrouped. We came out pretty optimistic.” It’s a big positive for the Blue Devils to have a winning record going into conference play. Green feels like this has been the best start ever for men’s soccer and with the way the team has played he is probably right. But not all is well for Central. Green acknowledges that there are still aspects of the team that needs work - most importantly the defense that was so important to the success that the Blue Devils had last year in the NEC and NCAA Tournaments. Those squads were able to shut down some of the top scoring offenses in the country like Harvard and Tulsa. “We need to really focus on our defensive staff for us to win anything. We need to get

tial to blindside and leave other teams speechless. Six minutes after the start of the match, Cavalier freshman Tony Tchani sank in a shot past Blue Devils goalkeeper Paul Armstrong from 15 yards away, but then something happened ten minutes later that overcast the entire game. In what seemed to be a complete accidental collision with Central junior defender David Tyrie, Virginia’s forward Chris Agorsor, recently voted one of the best freshmen in the country, landed and tore his ACL and had possibly torn his PCL, which is an uncommon injury. The time “28:17” was frozen on the scoreboard for ten minutes as medics rushed out, the ambulance came and Agorsor was taken away on a stretcher. Agorsor will be out for Virginia’s entire season. Once the game presumed, Tchani avenged his fallen teammate by scoring the penalty kick. With twelve minutes left in the first half, Cavaliers’ junior Ross LaBauex scored while Armstrong was out of the box. The 45 minutes ended with Virginia making 14 shots to Central’s 1. Only one other goal occurred in the first 15 seconds of the second half; it was made by Virginia freshman Brian Ownby from 12 yards away. For the remainder of the game, Central’s squad held Virginia back as the rest of their shots on goal failed. Each shot on goal by Virginia was an acceptable one, though Armstrong and the Central squad’s defense worked hard and did not falter. After 11 years, Virginia had still managed to pull a deja vu shut out, and while Central came out a little frustrated, it was the experience that counted. Central got to mix up their line up, putting in many newcomers who needed the game play. “These types of games are challenging but important,” said Coach Green. “It raises our visibility on a national level and prepares us for the big games. There’s no shame in getting beat and knocked down. It’s getting back up and responding.” some shut outs here. We haven’t been doing that the past couple of games,” said Green “Every game that we’ve played there has been a new problem and a new solution.” Green plans on plugging a variety of players into the defensive scheme to figure out the best combination for the back line. He is looking forward to Wednesday’s game against Bryant as an opportunity to continue working on their defensive schemes and lineups. With one more victory the Blue Devils could enter NEC play with six victories, a total that would put them on par with St. Francis (NY) for most victories in the conference. “Everything is about momentum. It’s building up the steam and getting things rolling,” said Green. “We would much rather go in with the confidence of knowing that [we’ve] beaten teams.”

THE RECORDER / Wednesday, October 1, 2008 / SPORTS

The Feet of Central Football Peter Collin Magaing Editor

They are often the least appreciated player on a football team. But for about six seconds of the game they can either become the hero or the villain for your favorite team. They are the lonely brotherhood of the kicker. Every football team has them and throughout the history of the game they have felt the joys of being the last second hero and the agony of being the goat of Super Bowls. For CCSU kickers there isn’t anything as big as a Super Bowl title on the line but they have an important role on the team nonetheless. The Blue Devils carry three kickers on their team with varying degrees of experience and with differing roles. The place kicker, sophomore Joe Izzo, wasn’t always in pads. Like most kickers he began his path to the gridiron by playing on the pitch. Izzo was a soccer player most of his life until he reached high school. Once in high school he began to tire of the soccer grind and he took a year off. Shortly after his hiatus from soccer he began to develop interest in kicking for football. It was a fairly easy transition for Izzo and the idea of kicking was something that intrigued him. He has thought in the past that he might have played football if he was bigger. But at 5’10” and only 175 he stays on the sideline for most of the plays. “I kind of got tired of it and I wanted to try something new and there was no kicker on the football team,” said Izzo. “It has worked out pretty good I’d say.” For freshman Chris Scifo the motivation was far from his actual desire. Scifo began his athletic career as a soccer player as well. It was something he enjoyed until a back injury ended his soccer career. “I hurt my back and the doctor told me to become a kicker,” said Scifo. “So, I tried kicking and it’s worked out pretty well.” Now Scifo handles all of the team’s kickoffs, along with punts and the longer field goals over 40 yards. Also in the fold for punts is freshman Steve Smith who began his kicking career when his high school team needed a kicker and he volunteered for the job. Though the kickers don’t play a huge role in the Blue Devil offense, they are hardly inconsequential to the Blue Devil strategy. The Central kickers are a big part of the field position game that the Blue Devils struggle with every game. Scifo’s punts and kickoffs push opponents deep into their own terri-

Joe Izzo demonstrates his kick.

tory, while Izzo finishes stalled drives and touchdowns. Though they may not have the most physically strenuous role in the game, Izzo, Scifo and Smith all feel that they have the most mentally demanding job on the team. Often they are called onto the field at a moment’s notice. They only have one play at a time to succeed or

Edward Gaug / The Recorder

fail with long intervals of inactivity to ponder every success or failure. Head Coach Jeff McInerney does not often call on Izzo or Scifo to put points on the board. To date McInerney has only called for a field goal once on the season, a 22-yard attempt against the Bryant Bulldogs that was blocked in the first quarter. Blue Devil kicking has nailed down 13 consecutive extra point attempts for the season. For the most part their teammates understand the strain on the kickers. “I just try to think, ‘It’s just like practice.’ When I kick I don’t hear anything I just try to block it out,” said Izzo. “Just act normal and try not to think about it. Just focus on your job.” “It’s not too bad here. They haggle you and stuff, ‘I wish I was a kicker,’ and all that,” said Izzo. For kickers, practice is often a tale of monotony. They repeatedly practice their holds and catches. Other than that they mostly just move the chains during practice. During games the story doesn’t change much except that they have to pay a little more attention to the game so they don’t get caught offguard by a punt or field goal. The life of a kicker is all about staying mentally prepared for the task at hand and Izzo, Scifo and Smith take pride in their job. They know that at anytime they could be called upon to do the most overlooked job in football and possibly save the game.

Scifo can see that they are under-appreciated by some. “Some kids don’t understand how it is to be a kicker – the pressure on a kicker,” he

said, “until you’re really at the moment and you need those three points to win the game.”

THE RECORDER / Wednesday, October 1, 2008 / SPORTS

MLB Playoff Preview

National League

Los Angeles Dodgers at Chicago Cubs Los Angeles Dodgers 84-78, NL West Champions

This is not the match up the Dodgers wanted. It would have been preferable for them to face the Mets and their joke of a bullpen but that bullpen made sure the Mets fans wouldn’t have to suffer into October. The Cubs dominated the Dodgers early in the season, sweeping them in May and splitting four games in June. But that was before Joe Torre had Manny Ramirez in his back pocket. Almost every Dodger has become an all-star since his arrival. Torre’s big problem will be who is closing the games in October: Takashi Saito or Jonathon Broxton.

Chicago Cubs 97-64 NL Central Champions

It has been 100 years. Everyone knows all the stories. This would seem like the year the Cubs finally have the stars aligned to at least make a trip back to the World Series if not win the whole thing. But with Carlos Zambrano being a question mark and the fragility of midseason pick-up Rich Harden, the Cubs could be looking at another disappointing October. They do however, have the bats necessary to at least carry them past the Dodgers and Ted Lilly has been nasty in September, holding opponents to a paltry .190 batting average.

Prediction: Both teams have shaky rotations, but if Zambrano manages to tough it out and Harden doesn’t shatter into a million pieces, then the Cubs will outlast the Dodgers. Cubs win 3-2.

Milwaukee Brewers at Philadelphia Phillies Milwaukee Brewers 90-72 NL Wild Card winners

The Brewers have waited a long time for this. It has been 26 years since the Brew Crew felt the cool air of October. That’s the longest drought for any of the teams in the playoffs this year. Unfortunately for them it took every game of the regular season for that dream to become a reality. The road to the playoffs cost them starter Ben Sheets and forced them to waste their ace, CC Sabathia, on the last day of the season. The joy of just getting this far could put a drain on Milwaukee going into the post season and a big letdown could be on the horizon.

Philadelphia Phillies 92-70 NL East Champions

It must be weird for Philadelphia fans to feel happy about something. This is two years running that the Phillies have made it to the post season and this time they might actually show up. After getting bounced in just three games last year by Rocktober, the Phillies will be looking to redeem themselves. Cole Hamels wont flop this time around and that Phillies lineup is going to demolish every Brewer’s pitcher except CC when he finally gets his turn.

Prediction: If Milwaukee had a week to rest then I might be inclined to give them more of a chance, but they just spent too much trying to get in. Without Sheets they just don’t have enough arms unless Yovani Gallardo can make a miracle come back. Phillies win 3-1.

American League Minnesota Twins or Chicago White Sox at Tampa Bay Rays Tampa Bay Rays: 97-65 AL East Champions

The American League East Champion Who?! That’s right, they’re snowboarding in hell, because the Tampa Bay Rays are in the postseason as a division winner. Nobody could have predicted a playoff berth for them this season, let alone a division title in a tough one that features the perennial powerhouse Yankees and Red Sox. Rays manager Joe Maddon helped his team overcome the second smallest payroll in the league en route to 97 wins in the regular season. One can argue that after finishing last for so long and picking first in the draft the past two years, it was only a matter of time before they had the talent to reach the postseason. Lately it has been smart personnel moves and strong drafts that have gotten them to this point. For Tampa, their biggest strength is their pitching. They have a playoff-built rotation of Shields, Kazmir, Sonnanstine, and Garza. Their hitting leaves something to be desired, but as seen by both Yankee and Red Sox fans alike, they have a knack for the big hit at an opportune time this season. They’ll need some from the likes of Carlos Pena and Evan Longoria if they want a shot at a miraculous run to the World Series. But they’ve done it all season long, so why not Tampa?

Chicago White Sox: 88-74 AL Central Champions

The White Sox took a vacation for the last week of the season and fell out of first after being swept by the Minnesota Twins. They have a lot of good pieces on their team but they have lacked consistency. The White Sox can mash with the Rays any day of the week the bigger question for Chicago is their rotation. The Sox have had to waste two of their best starters in Gavin Floyd and John Danks just to get in and Javier Vasquez has been anything but reliable this season. Tampa Bay outplayed the Sox during the regular season, especially down in Tampa. It will be important for the Sox to get out of the gate fast or they could be heading back U.S. Cellular in a two game hole.

Minnesota Twins: 88-74 AL Central Champions

The Minnesota Twins watched the White Sox play their way out of the postseason, resulting in Minnesota making it to the playoffs despite their off-season fire sale of Johan Santana and Torii Hunter. For the Twins to do any significant damage in the postseason, they have to get offensive production from sources other than Joe Mauer and Justin Morneau. They’ll have a number of pitching options, including a rotation anchored by Nick Blackburn and Scott Baker, two guys you may never have heard of before, but could quickly become acquainted with if they continue to pitch well into the postseason. Francisco Liriano is certainly a difference maker, but he got shelled in his last start of the season. When it comes to pitching in relation to the Twins, the biggest insurance policy they have is lights-out closer Joe Nathan. He stabilizes the back end of the bullpen, and with all of the one-run games that occur in the postseason, he will be a key cog for the Minnesota staff. This should be a very entertaining series. Hopefully people don’t dismiss it as two smallmarket teams; because this battle will be some of the best baseball we see all postseason long. Ultimately, it comes down to who gets the big hit. Prediction: Tampa’s rotation is young and scary good, and Minnesota is just too twodimensional when it comes to hitting. The White Sox lack the pitching depth to keep up with the Rays all-around staff. Rays win either series 3-1.

Boston Red Sox at the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim Boston Red Sox: 95-67 AL Wild Card Winners

The Boston Red Sox attempt to defend their World Championship as they got into the postseason via the wild card. This team has it all: solid starting pitching, a great offense and a home advantage unlike any other in baseball. With that said, let’s focus on the one weakness of the team. The bullpen has been suspect all season long. Sure, Papelbon is currently the best in the business, but getting the lead to him is the problem. If you ask any Red Sox fan how much they trust Okajima, Timlin and Delcarmen, the answer will understandably not be filled with overwhelming confidence. Timlin and Masterson each have a penchant for giving up the long ball, which is killer in the postseason. The Sox can hide that weak spot with their potent offense, though. It’s easy to point to the absence of Manny Ramirez and claim that they will miss him, but they were able to clinch a postseason spot without him, and one cannot underestimate the effect his departure has on the clubhouse. Will they miss his bat? Absolutely. Will they miss him falling onto the baseball in left field and not legging out grounders deep in the shortstop hole? Absolutely not.

Josh Beckett has had his start pushed back to game three, but that shouldn’t be a problem for one of the most dominating postseason pitchers in recent memory. Matsuzaka and Lester will also contribute as starters, and are capable of anything.

Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim: 100-62 AL West Champions

Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim oppose the defending champs. They led the major leagues in wins with 100, and haven’t played a meaningful game in a long time. They’re rested, relaxed, and ready for business. This is a team with a lights out bullpen, led by single-season saves record holder Francisco Rodriguez. Scot Shields and Jose Arredondo provide a suitable bridge to get to him as well. Combine that with the formidable, but not dominating starting pitching, and it makes for a tough team to knock out. On the offensive side of things, this team can rake. Led by Vladimir Guerrero, Torii Hunter, and Mark Teixeira, this team can put up some scary numbers. Historically, the Red Sox have had their way with the Angels in the postseason, especially in recent memory. But this year it will be different.

Prediction: The Angels are the best team in baseball, without question. It will be a close series between the two best teams in the American League, but in the end, LA’s home advantage will help them edge out the Red Sox and close out the quest for a repeat championship. Angels in five.

THE RECORDER / Wednesday, October 1, 2008 / SPORTS

NHL Preview 2008-2009 EASTERN CONFERENCE: ATLANTIC DIVISION

Michael Walsh Staff Writer

In 2008, Sidney Crosby and the Pittsburgh Penguins made their long awaited appearance in the Stanley Cup Finals. What they ran into was a different story. The Pavel Datsyuk and Henrik Zetterberg led Detroit Red Wings were waiting for Sid the Kid. Detroit, a powerhouse of the last ten plus years, had no trouble beating the Penguins in six games to win Lord Stanley’s cup. There are plenty of questions to be answered in the 2008-2009 season. Will Detroit be able to live up to expectations or will another team finally dethrone them? Will the New York Rangers’ big spending finally pay off? How will Montreal perform in their franchise’s 100th year? Here is my insight into all 30 NHL squads and my predictions for the Stanley Cup playoffs.

Eastern Conference Playoff Predictions 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

Montreal Canadiens Pittsburgh Penguins Washington Capitals New York Rangers Philadelphia Flyers New Jersey Devils Boston Bruins Tampa Bay Lightning

First Round

Montreal over Tampa Bay Pittsburgh over Boston New Jersey over Washington New York over Philadelphia

Second Round

Montreal over New Jersey New York over Pittsburgh

Conference Finals Montreal over New York

1. Pittsburgh Penguins (46-28-8 – 100 pts) Pittsburgh will once again lead the Atlantic Division even after losing key players such as Marian Hossa thanks to the locking up of core players Evgeni Malkin, Marc Andre Fleury and Brooks Orpik to multi-year extensions. Sidney Crosby’s production and a rebound season by the young Jordan Staal will be the keys to their success. Adding Miroslav Satan and Ruslan Fedotenko make them even deeper and a force in the Eastern Conference.

2. New York Rangers (43-30-9 – 95 pts) After Jaromir Jagr and the Rangers parted ways, G.M. Glen Sather dove deep into the free agent market signing big name players Markus Naslund and Wade Redden. The acquisition of forward Nikolai Zherdev was one of the steals of the off-season. It’s up to veterans such as Chris Drury and Scott Gomez to lead the team. Henrik Lundqvist is a difference maker in net and can account for a handful of wins himself. If the Rangers play sound defense like last year and light the lamp a few more times, they’ll be a nightmare for their opposition. 3. Philadelphia Flyers (41-30-11 – 93 pts) The Flyers rebound year last season began a new era for Flyers hockey. The new face of Philadelphia hockey is Mike Richards. The team will depend on Richards and fellow young forwards Jeff Carter and Scottie Upshall to help Daniel Briere on offense. A healthy Simon Gagne will mean a lot to the Flyers. As long as Martin Biron continues his solid play in goal the Flyers should have no trouble making the playoffs.

4. New Jersey Devils (40-30-12 – 92 pts) Like always, the boring Devils will be in the playoff hunt. They brought back former Devils Bobby Holik and Brian Rolston and added these forwards to a group that struggled last year. Zach Parise will have to lead Patrick Elias, and the rest of the Devils offensively. Defense is never a problem for the Devils with lockdown forwards like John Madden and solid defensemen like Paul Martin. With Martin Brodeur in net the Devils have a chance to win every night. The team will be in the playoff hunt come April. 5. New York Islanders (32-40-10 – 74 pts) The only absolute given in the Atlantic Division is that the Islanders will finish last. The team is led by veterans Bill Guerin and Doug Weight but will need youngster Kyle Okposo to step up and score if they want any shot at making the playoffs this season. The team does feature a solid but not extraordinary blue line. A healthy Rick DiPietro will also be key to the Islanders’ success this season. The team simply doesn’t have enough weapons to compete in one of the league’s toughest divisions.

EASTERN CONFERENCE: NORTHEAST DIVISION 1. Montreal Canadiens (49-24-9 – 107 pts) Montreal finished first in the Eastern Conference last season and will repeat that effort this season. A rejuvenated Alexei Kovalev and breakout players such as Tomas Plekanec and brothers Andrei and Sergei Kostitsyn will only continue to become more of a force. The acquisitions of Robert Lang and Alex Tanguay strengthen their group of forwards. The biggest question for Montreal will be whether 21-yearold goalie Carey Price can handle the pressure of playing in one of the most intense hockey atmospheres. He played fine in 41 games last season but faded in the playoffs. No pressure Carey, but it’s up to you. 2. Boston Bruins (41-32-9 – 91 pts) The Bruins are my dark horse to cause trouble in the Eastern Conference. They seem to always be able to get the job done in a number of ways. Whether it is role players like Chuck Kobasew or leaders like Marc Savard stepping it up, they find a way to win. Patrice Bergeron was lost after 10 games due to injury last season and expects to be at the top of his game this year. If

he can produce like he has shown he can the Bruins will be a dangerous team. Tim Thomas should be stable enough at goalie to help the Bruins make the playoffs. 3. Ottawa Senators (39-32-11 – 89 pts) Ottawa will have no problem putting the puck in the net this season. Led by dynamic offensive players Jason Spezza, Dany Heatley, and Daniel Alfredsson, the Senators will always be a threat to out score the opposition. The real question lies in their defense and goaltenders. Ottawa lost offensive defenseman Andrej Meszaros, leader Wade Redden and the physical Mike Commodore. This shakes up their blue line. Prospect Brian Lee will have to step up and fill the offensive void left by Meszaros and Redden. In goal Martin Gerber enters the season with no distraction after Ray Emery was let go. Gerber and backup Alex Auld make for a respectable duo but not one that can take this team where it wants to be.

4. Buffalo Sabres (38-33-11 – 87 pts) Two seasons ago the Sabres were one of the teams to beat in the NHL. Unfortunately, they lost top scorers Chris Drury and Daniel Briere. This left the Sabres with a group of young, inexperienced forwards with loads of potential. A key for this young team is whether Derek Roy and Jason Pominville can perform to the 80-point level they did last season. Scoring is expected but solid play on defense and at goal are a must if the Sabres expect to compete in their division. 5. Toronto Maple Leafs (35-37-10 – 80 pts) Sorry Leafs fans, your team is finishing last again. With the loss of superstar Mats Sundin the Leafs will be hurting. Their offense is made up of a plethora of average forwards, none of which will be able to step up and lead the team. They overpaid for defensemen Jeff Finger this offseason and for some strange reason they decided to take Ryan Hollweg off of the Rangers’ hands. It’s bound to be a tough season in Toronto.

EASTERN CONFERENCE: SOUTHEAST DIVISION

3. Carolina Hurricanes (40-33-9 – 89 pts) The 2006 Stanley Cup champions have had trouble recapturing their past successes lately. With a collection of talented forwards, solid defense and a sturdy goaltender in Cam Ward the Hurricanes are poised to compete for the playoffs but I do think they’ll eventually fall short of that goal.

1. Washington Capitals (44-30-8 – 96 pts) Washington fans will have a lot to look forward to this season. Alexander Ovechkin, arguably the best and most exciting player in the NHL, will once again lead the team to the playoffs. With full seasons from Sergei Federov and Michael Nylander the Capitals can expect good things. Jose Theodore is a solid net minder who is looking to return to his 2004 form that won him the MVP trophy. The nation’s capital is about to start heating up.

2. Tampa Bay Lightning (41-33-8 – 90 pts) The most improved team this season will be Tampa Bay. The Lightning were active this offseason bringing in ESPN analyst Barry Melrose at head coach, drafting phenom Steven Stamkos first overall, and adding a number of solid players such as Ryan Malone and Andrej Meszaros. It also doesn’t hurt to have Vincent Lecavalier, one of the leagues best centers, leading your team. All this should formulate into a playoff trip.

4. Florida Panthers (38-33-11 – 87 pts) Another team I expect to surprise will be the Panthers. Although they lost top scorer Olli Jokinen in the offseason they have enough offense to go along with a great blueline. Jay Bouwmeester, who led the NHL in average ice time last season, returns and bolsters a group that added offensive minded defenseman Bryan McCabe. The offense is led by a promising group of forwards including Nathan Horton and David Booth. Strong defensive play and goaltending will help the rebuilding Panthers in their quest to make the postseason. 5. Atlanta Thrashers (34-37-11 – 79 pts) The Ilya Kovalchuk-led Thrashers are looking down once again. Unable to return to the playoffs last year the team struggled and finished in the bottom three in the conference. Unfortunately, they seem headed in the same direction this year. Ever since Marc Savard left for Boston the team hasn’t been able to find a good center for Kovalchuk to play with. This team will struggle offensively and the defense and goaltending isn’t good enough to save them.

THE RECORDER / Wednesday, October 1, 2008 / SPORTS

WESTERN CONFERENCE: CENTRAL DIVISION

1. Detroit Red Wings (54-20-8 – 116 pts) After beating Pittsburgh in the Stanley Cup finals the Red Wings decided to put the hurt on the Penguins just one more time by signing free Marian Hossa. Hossa joins a dominating offense led by Pavel Datsyuk and Henrik Zetterberg. Role players Tomas Holmstrom, Johan Franzen and Kris Draper give the team character. Nicklas Lidstrom and Brian Rafalski return on the blue line along with last year’s breakout d-man Niklas Kronwall. Chris Osgood assumes full position at goalie and should be able to handle a full load. Look for the Red Wings to go deep into the playoffs yet again. 2. Chicago Blackhawks (41-31-10 – 92 pts) All the patience of diehard Blackhawk fans will finally pay off this season. The big offseason signing of offensive defenseman Brian Campbell will add a lot of production to the team. Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane will both step up and be the young leaders Chicago needs. Signing goalie Cristobal Huet will turn out as being one of the best moves of the offseason as he leads the young Blackhawks to the playoffs.

but it simply won’t be enough offensively and defensively in the very deep conference they play in.

4. Columbus Blue Jackets (37-35-10 – 84 pts) Things have been tough in Columbus since their inception. They’ve failed to make the playoffs since being founded in 2000. Things will continue to struggle in the 08-09 season but the team will make improvements. They traded offense for defense when they sent Nikolai Zherdev to the Rangers for Fedor Tyutin and Christian Backman. This move will help them on the blue line but hurt them up front. Forward Rick Nash won’t be enough to catapult them into the playoffs.

5. St. Louis Blues (35-37-10 – 80 pts) Last season Brad Boyes had a breakout 43 goal season for the Blues. With that and names like Paul Kariya and Keith Tkachuk you’d think the Blues would be more success-

WESTERN CONFERENCE: NORTHWEST DIVISION

3. Nashville Predators (39-34-9 – 87 pts) The Nashville Predators lost their biggest offensive threat when Alexander Radulov left to go overseas. Making almost no impact moves in the free agent market, Nashville is left with what they had last year. The team will find a way to get things done with what they have

stellar goaltending and lead the Flames into the playoffs.

2. Minnesota Wild (42-31-9 – 93 pts) A full year of Marian Gaborik will mean good things for the Wild. Gaborik’s contract is up at the end of the year and the trade winds will swirl all season. Mikko Koivu will have a breakout season and Niklas Backstrom will play strong in goal again. Even though the team lost some of its toughness by losing Aaron Voros and Todd Fedoruk they will play sound hockey like always and reach the playoffs once again.

Western Conference Playoff Predictions 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

Detroit Red Wings San Jose Sharks Calgary Flames Dallas Stars Anaheim Ducks Minnesota Wild Edmonton Oilers Chicago Blackhawks

First Round

Detroit over Chicago San Jose over Edmonton Minnesota over Calgary Dallas over Anaheim

ful. They would be if we were 10 years in the past. The Blues simply don’t have enough weapons to win. With promising defensemen Erik Johnson out indefinitely with a torn ACL things are looking even bluer in St. Louis this season.

1. Calgary Flames (45-28-9 – 99 pts) When I look at what the Flames will be sending out onto the ice this season the words complete package flash in front of me. The team added Michael Cammalleri and Todd Bertuzzi to an already potent offense. Dion Phaneuf has emerged as the star they need him to be. Miikka Kiprusoff will continue to play

3. Edmonton Oilers (42-32-8 – 92 pts) The Oilers fell short of the postseason last year and will look to improve on their efforts this year. Their group of young talent including Andrew Cogliano and Sam Gagner should rise to the occasion. Combine that with returning veterans like Shawn Horcoff and the Oilers are back into the playoff mix.

4. Vancouver Canucks (41-32-9 – 91 pts) I envision the Canucks having a bit of a rebound year but still falling short in the very deep Northwest Division. They lost Markus Naslund but they gained Pavol Demitra. Brother combo Daniel and Henrik Sedin will perform well again and Roberto Luongo will be the superb goaltender he always has been. They just don’t have all the necessary pieces to reach the playoffs.

5. Colorado Avalanche (39-32-11 – 89 pts) It’s tough to put the Avalanche anywhere but at the top but this appears to be the season in which they’ll falter a bit. They’ll have a fine season but in a conference as deep as this one they’ll miss the playoffs. Joe Sakic returns as the veteran leader along with Ryan Smyth and Milan Hejduk. The Avs will be able to put the puck in the net a lot. The big question is whether or not Peter Budaj and Andrew Raycroft can play strong in goal. If either of them gets hot the team can certainly rise above my prediction for them.

WESTERN CONFERENCE: PACIFIC DIVISION

Second Round

Detroit over Minnesota Dallas over San Jose

Conference Finals Dallas over Detroit

Stanley Cup Finals

Montreal over Dallas in six games

1. San Jose Sharks (48-24-10 – 106 pts) Joe Thornton and the rest of the Sharks will stay at the top of the Pacific with another tremendous season. If there is one team in the west that can challenge Detroit it’ll be San Jose. They made up for losing defenseman Brian Campbell by adding Dan Boyle and Rob Blake to their defensive corps. Evgeni Nabokov will supply great goaltending as expected. With guys like Patrick Marleau and Jonathan Cheechoo on offense the Sharks are deep enough to push the Red Wings to the limit. 2. Dallas Stars (46-28-8 – 100 pts) I really happen to like the Stars’ chances this season. The team returns the core of Mike Modano and Brenden Morrow on offense and Matry Turco in goal. Mike Ribeiro should improve on his breakout season. Having a full season of Brad Richards only deepens the team. Adding pesky Sean Avery in the off-season was a great move for Dallas. Combine Avery’s antics with Steve Ott’s tough play and you’ve got yourself a troublesome squad. Fabian Brunnstrom is a player to keep an eye on in his first NHL season. Marty Turco gives the team nightly security in net. Watch for Dallas to surprise many and upset a lot of teams along the way.

3. Anaheim Ducks (45-29-8 – 98 pts) Anaheim’s focus on building its team around homegrown talent has worked beautifully for them. Ryan Getzlaf and Corey Perry once again will lead the Ducks to the playoffs. To put themselves over the hump though they will need secondary scoring from the likes of Brendan Morrison and Bobby Ryan. If Teemu Selanne decides to return to the Ducks one more time they’ll even further strengthen their chances to go deep. J.S. Giguere will provide great goaltending and the Ducks’ collection of defensive forwards and defensemen will make it easy for him. 4. Phoenix Coyotes (39-34-9 – 87 pts) Things are about to get a little better for folks in the desert. The Coyotes added Olli Jokinen, a great talent hidden on the bad Florida Panthers, to a young and talented squad. With veteran Shane Doan and youngsters like Kyle Turris and Peter Mueller, Phoenix should have a solid year that will act as a stepping stone for future playoff runs. They won’t make it this year, but fans in Phoenix should have something to look forward to. 5. Los Angeles Kings (36-37-9 – 81 pts) The Kings finished tied for last in the NHL in points last season with 71. The team is full of talent with Anze Kopitar and Alexander Frolov leading the team. Adding Jarret Stoll will strengthen the Kings at center. Patrick O’Sullivan will continue to improve on his breakout season. At this point, the Kings are still a little too young and lacking to make the playoffs. Former Hartford Wolf Pack stud Jason LaBarbera is looking to improve on his poor season between the pipes last year as he’ll likely split time with Erik Ersberg. The Kings have potential but have a little ways to go.

THE RECORDER / Wednesday, October 1, 2008 / SPORTS

CCSU Ice Hockey Club Confident for New Season Kyle Dorau Sports Editor

In talking with the Central Connecticut State University Ice Hockey team, there’s a sense that they’re not sure know how to feel about last year. Or at the very least, there are mixed and conflicting feelings. On one hand, the team is very proud of all they accomplished, overcoming off-ice distractions to go 6-0 in the month of February and punch a ticket to the National Tournament. Conversely, the team also laid an egg in the Super East Finals at Siena, and proceeded to go 0-3 at Nationals. “Every once in a while I pop over to the Super East Web site and I see that Siena championship celebration picture,” said Head Coach Jim Mallia. “That’s our drive. That’s my drive – that’s the team’s drive.” The coaching staff views the Nationals trip not as a disappointment, but as great experience heading into this season. It was the icing on the cake of a very successful season. The buzz heading into tryouts was the large number of talented freshmen and sophomores who would be trying out. A total of 19 new players have been thrown into the

mix and they look to compete for roster spots and make a difference in the lineup. “Last year we weren’t as deep with our forward lines,” said senior forward Mike DiClemente. “We probably had two solid forward lines. This year, we’re going to have four easily.” Depth was a question mark for the Blue Devils last year, which was clearly addressed by the coaching staff in the off-season. With increased talent throughout the lineup, now comes the question of who earns the playing time. From the first practice, it was very clear that anyone could seize a roster spot at any position. “Any job is up for grabs, absolutely,” said Mallia. This thought process gives new players confidence that they have a chance to earn their keep on the merits of their hard work and talent, while veterans are determined to defend their turf, or in this case, their spot in the lineup. One area in which the Blue Devils have depth is in net. Last season, junior Carmine Vetrano and senior Craig Height split goaltending duties with Vetrano leading the way in appearances, wins, goals against average and save percentage. However at the end of the season, Vetrano began to struggle and Height played

particularly well, starting the last two games at Nationals despite losing efforts. It’s a wonderful problem for Coach Mallia, to have two extremely competent goalies. He has issued the same challenge to them that he has for all the other skaters: the starting goalie job is up for grabs, go and earn it. “My thought is you need two goalies to go all the way through,” said Mallia. “Goaltending’s not the easiest thing to do. They’re the last line of defense, and I’m looking for one, if not two, to step up this year.” Both goalies are looking forward to the test. “Obviously my main goal is to play as much as I can,” said Height. “It was good to get out there and get my confidence back and play a little more at Nationals.” Vetrano acknowledges he hit a skid at the end of last season, but explained that every athlete goes through slumps now and then, and says he just went into one at an unfortunate time in which the games were of high importance. “I’m just looking to give my team a chance to win every game,” said Vetrano. “If we do make a run, hopefully I’ll be that guy to bear down, stop the puck, and just win.”

Offensively for the Blue Devils, the focus is once again the top line of junior forward Joe Dabkowski, and senior forwards Mike and Rob DiClemente. Dabkowski, the 200708 SECHL player of the year, is determined to have a repeat performance of last season’s success. “We’ve worked with each other over the summer, and we’re all on the same page that we want to go back to Nationals,” said Dabkowski. “We will accept nothing less.” The top line, which accounted for nearly half of CCSU’s goal output, looks to make the leap to the next level in terms of their game together this season. “I expect more from all three of them,” said Mallia. “I’m pretty anxious to see what they can do, because last year was just great sitting behind the bench and watching them do what they can do.” The schedule for this season has several games of note. The season starts Saturday, Oct. 4 as the Blue Devils open at home against Western Connecticut State University. Game time is 7:30 p.m. On Oct. 24, the Blue Devils head back to Siena for the first time since they lost in the Super East Finals. Last season’s 8-1 loss will surely be on their minds as they make

the trip up to the Albany County Hockey Facility. Nov. 21 and 22, the Blue Devils will host the CT Governor’s Cup as they open up against Southern Connecticut State University. Central returns home after winter break on Jan. 16 against new Super East foe William Patterson University, who replaces Pennsylvania State University in the league. Finally, the team closes out its schedule with the Alumni game on Feb. 20 followed by the regular season finale against Sacred Heart. With the season opener just days away, the Blue Devils have one goal, according to Coach Mallia. “Return,” he said, stating an objective that doubles as a mantra for the team. “Return to 20 wins, return to the Super East Finals and return to Nationals.” The quest to make all of that happen begins on Saturday as they take on the Colonials of WCSU at Newington Arena, located at 300 Alumni Road in Newington, just minutes from CCSU.

Blue Devils Move to 3-1 With 28-10 Road Victory at Delaware State on Saturday CCSUBlueDevils.com

Junior running back James Mallory rushed for 123 yards on a career-high 36 carries as the Central Connecticut football team ended a nine-game home winning streak for Delaware State on Saturday night with a 28-10 victory on the road. The Blue Devils, now 3-1 on the season, rushed for 262 yards and held the ball for over 40 minutes in the victory. After playing a scoreless first quarter, sophomore running back Eric Richardson scored his first career touchdown for the Blue Devils with 10:28 left in the second quarter to give CCSU the 7-0 lead. The play came after the Blue Devils blocked their third punt of the season to give the team great field position. Alondre Rush blocked the punt and it was recovered at the one

yard line by senior captain Michael Bailey. Two plays later Richardson scored to put Central Connecticut up 7-0.  Delaware State answered with a touchdown on its next drive to tie the game at 7-7 with 7:55 to play. The Hornets needed only six plays to drive the length of the field to tie the game on a six-yard touchdown run by quarterback Vashon Winton. The drive took only two minutes and 25 seconds off the clock. Central Connecticut answered

Blue Devils Delaware

28 10

quickly with a four-play, 76-yard drive to take a 14-7 lead with 6:05 left to play in the second quarter. Senior Josh Vargas rushed from 15 yards out to give CCSU the seven-point advantage. Junior quarterback Hunter Wanket entered the game for the first

American Teams are No Friendly English Sports Clubs Colette Callacher Staff Writer

As an international student from England studying at Central Connecticut State University, my eyes have been opened to the sporting academia of the American schools. Certainly true for CCSU, there are two very different types of sports teams. Firstly, the club teams: volleyball, football, softball to name but a few, who compete only against the other teams within campus. The majority of the club team members have excelled within their sports, winning former championships with their non-university teams. Despite this, the club members are classed as second rate to the Varsity teams. The varsity teams are the ‘”rème de la crème”, the best of the best or the elite! Many of the varsity sport team members have full scholarships to the university, providing free board and food for the time spent at CCSU. However, as part of the varsity teams, rigorous training is essential. Early mornings, daily fitness training and with some teams, training is required two or three times a day with more training or competitions at the weekend.

Many of the teams at University of Central Lancashire in Northwest England, use Wednesday evenings as social nights, which traditionally involves lots of alcohol, various drinking games and plenty of friendly banter. Training varies between as little as one training session a week and three or four training sessions. The American athletes certainly excel at CCSU, taking the titles of various sporting leagues each season, but endure the rigorous training sessions in order to win so many championships, which potentially affects social lives. After all, during the last hockey season the UCLan Seconds Ladies team won the hockey championships and I can say from experience they train once a week and thoroughly enjoy their social/drinking life. Although not speaking from the perspective of all English students, most of us believe we know so much about the American culture and ways of life from television programs and films. Despite only focusing on a very small part of the sporting side of life, it has certainly opened the eyes of many friends and students in UCLan, proving that our “education” of American life from “Saved by the Bell” or the movie “American Pie” is drastically inaccurate.

time and ran 31 yards to move the Blue Devils across midfield. After a long Wanket pass to Vargas and a run by Mallory, Vargas took the ball up the left side for his third score of the season and the seven point lead. The Blue Devils upped their lead to 21-7 with 43 seconds left in the half on a seven-play, 68-yard drive capped by Wanket’s 28-yard touchdown to Nick Colagiovanni. Wanket completed a pair of long passes on the drive but a pair of Delaware State penalties helped CCSU stay alive for their third score of the game. Delaware State responded with a field goal before the break to cut the Blue Devil lead to 21-10 at halftime. In the second half it was all Central Connecticut as they held the Hornets scoreless and allowed the DSU offense on the field for only a little over seven minutes. CCSU controlled the football and the clock as they held the ball for over 40 minutes in the game including 22 minutes in the second half.  CCSU scored the lone touchdown of the second half on a twoyard run by Mallory, his first

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Stock, Photo: Conrad Akier

touchdown of the game. The score ended a 13-play, 86-yard drive that took 6:21 off the clock and gave the Blue Devils the 18-point edge. The Blue Devils won the turnover battle forcing two interceptions and a fumble while committing only one turnover, on a fourth down interception on a fake field goal attempt in the third quarter. Mallory rushed for a game-high 123 yards, his fourth 100+ yard performance of the season. With his yardage he became the 17th player in school history to surpass 1,000 yards in his career. Wanket finished the game with a career-high 99 yards on the ground on just seven carries. He was 6-for-7 through the air for 72 yards and a touchdown in the game. Vargas and Richardson each scored a touchdown in the win for the Blue Devils. Ralph McKenley and Ernie Greywacz each had an interception to lead the Blue Devil defense. Jeff Marino led the way with six tackles in the game for the visitors. The CCSU defense held DSU to only 87 yards on the ground in the game. CCSU Football returns to action next week at home vs. Wagner College beginning at 4 p.m. on Arute Field. The game is the first Northeast Conference game of the season for the Blue Devils.

THE RECORDER Wednesday, October 1, 2008

Entertainment

You have a friend, lets call him “Todd”. “Todd” used to be completely badass. He drank whiskey and chainsmoked cigarettes and got into bar fights. He was the epitome of awesome. One day “Todd” told you that he was sick of not being liked by everyone, so he progressively decreased this badass behavior until eventually he began drinking wine coolers and wearing Banana Republic. This is my (admittedly juvenile) analogy for new release by the Kings of Leon. In interviews leading up to the release of their new album,

“Only by the Night”, the band members revealed that, despite their success overseas and status as critic darlings/indie superstars, their real goal was to break it big in America. The group has dropped their dirty, whiskey-soaked down-south badassness for arenafriendly rock and mostly overused melodies. It was apparent with their last release, “Because of the Times”, that they were going for a bigger and deeper sound, but the production and ambition never swallowed the drunken shout-along vibe that made their first two albums so good; it merely provided a different, if not altogether satisfying, sound. Don’t get me wrong. OBTN has its bright moments of intriguing turns and cocky swagger, but they’re less numerous, making the release perhaps one-third of a worthy successor. The main problem is that the album sags drastically in the middle. With soft, boring songs like “Use Somebody”, “Manhattan” and “Revelry” all lined up in a row, it’s hard not to lose momentum and forget that the Kings of Leon can actually rock.

Consequently, the promise presented by the first three songs, which are able to use the new sound without losing their edge, makes the album even more disappointing. These first three tracks (especially the stellar opener “Closer”), though not achieving the same fire as can be found in the band’s first two releases, ignite another, more sober fire. They come off sounding like a raw mash-up of The Secret Machines and Stillwater (I know, one is an unknown indie band and the other is a fictional band in the movie “Almost Famous”, deal with it). Ultimately the album will prove to be the Kings’ of Leon most successful release, but will also be their most polarizing. Some people will hate it because, when compared to their other work, it seems to play it too safe and some will love it for that exact reason. I, for one, am strangely ambivalent, making the album a huge disappointment. Besides, there’s only so much wine-cooler and Banana Republic I can take. P.J. Decoteau / Staff

The Plain White T’s released their new album “Big Bad World” on Sept. 23. You are probably familiar with their radio hit, “Hey There, Delilah”, which describes a long distance relationship and how the love between the couple gets them through it. “Big Bad World” is an album filled with songs that use the same predictable formula to grab the attention, and even more importantly, the sentimental side of listeners. From the first track to the last, Plain White T’s remind you that if you have love in your life, nothing else matters. This style of music is normally saved for little girls, or those who just like soft songs, but this is truly an album filled with tracks that will warm your heart and make you long for some one to share time with. Plain White T’s has never been a band that stood out in the crowd, and this album will not change that, but what it will do is give couples who are in love more songs to hold one another to and help remind them that love is love. As with the “Hey There, Delilah” formula, almost every song on “Big Bad World” tells the tale of two lovers who go through hell to be with one another and in the end they discover there was no real harm. Plain White T’s haven’t done anything revolutionary in the way of love songs. If you’re not a fan of this music this album may change that. Plain White T’s got lucky with their hit song and now they are using that style to get as many hit songs as they can, even if it all sounds the same, but it appeals to the sentiments. Don’t get me wrong. “Big Bad World” is a great album, and it shows how beautiful being in love can be. Sean Fenwick / Staff Writer

which I usually notice first and am a huge stickler for, is crisp, consistent and fluent. This set the album off on the right foot. From there it was all up to Gojira’s musical prowess, and if I had even the slightest doubt, it would have been immediately dispersed. Gojira is known for their outstanding drum and guitar work that is equally as orthodox as it is different. “The Way of All Flesh” displays these traits and then some. There is not one track that lost my attention, which I found amazing, considering the running time of the album tops an hour. For the casual metal fan, Gojira may be a name that you have not heard about. I urge you to at least go to their MySpace page and listen to a couple tracks off of this record. I would suggest just buying this album straight-up, because it really is that good. There are a handful of metal albums that I would consider as this year’s best. And “The Way of All Flesh” comes pretty damn close. Nick Viccione / Entertainment Editor

Pussycat Dolls “Doll Domination” A&M Records September 23, 2008

Kings of Leon “Only by the Night” RCA Records September 23, 2008

Plain White T’s “Big Bad World” Fearless Records September 23, 2008

There has to be something about the fall that forces record labels and bands to actually produce and release material that is worthy enough to care about. September saw its fair share of decent releases while October seems to be shaping up as another solid month. Leading the way are Gojira, yes they are from France, but don’t dare call them pansies. “The Way of All Flesh” is Gojira’s fourth full-length studio album and needless to say, it is a worthy follow up to their 2005 goliath, “From Mars to Sirius”. In my humble opinion it is always rough when a band releases an album so good that audiences anticipate their next release that much more. This creates many let-downs due to high expectations. In the case of “The Way of all Flesh”, I have absolutely nothing to gripe about. I could not point out a single aspect about this album that I do not like. The production,

Gojira “The Way of All Flesh” Prosthetic Records October 14, 2008

Cold War Kids “Loyalty to Loyalty” Downtown/Vertigo Co-Op Records September 23, 2008

“We don’t gamble, we don’t do the stock exchange,” moans Cold War Kids frontman Nathan Willett, as smooth blues-like tones bellow behind him, setting the album up for one stunning ride. What does it take for a band to be indie? Do you need to play in beat-down clubs all across the country? Or do you need to sound unpolished and void of any type of production value? What is so independent about it? I don’t know and I don’t want to know. Cold War Kids calls themselves indie. I would rather call them godsend. I thought music with this type of flavor and individuality had been destroyed by the pop music scene and people like Hannah Montana and the Jonas Brothers. “Loyalty to Loyalty” blends ‘70s boogie nights with the rock that defined the and on the way taps into the Chicago blues that seeded all the great musicians. To grasp the importance of this album one must listen to it straight through again and again and again. If you were to pick this album apart, it consists of brilliance, raw talent, soul and enough heart to change the world. With lyrics like “the devil’s in the details” and “your friends are all laughing because no one uses pay phones,” it is clear to see that they have transcended to a plane of thought where only artists understand one another. This album is perfect. Song after song, message after message, Cold War Kids have delivered a masterpiece. This is the type of album that will be discovered by a boy who is looking for direction in his life and will find it in the lyrics of Nathan Willett and the jumping and jiving of the bass lines and the fluttering of the piano as well as the rata tat tat of the drums. If you love music you owe it to yourself and your musical pallet. This must be heard. Sean Fenwick / Staff Writer

With their latest release “Doll Domination” the Pussycat Dolls have truly become music pioneers. The “band” has clearly done something completely extraordinary: they may have managed to end both music and the women’s struggle. For all of the lucky readers unfamiliar with the Dolls, their entire gimmick is the fact that unlike the girl bands before them, the Pussycat Dolls are actual strippers. Not strippers as in “they look like strippers,” but strippers as in “the word is actually listed on their individual résumés.” The only positive outcome of the band’s release is that the mainstream music industry cannot possibly stoop any lower. Being strippers is the most interesting thing about the band, however. The synthesizers on “Doll Domination” sound reminiscent to 90s pop and often act as a musical crutch, getting overlaid on top of some of the lesser talented girls’ voices. Track 10, “Halo”, sounds like a bad remix of “Green Sleeves” while “Bottle Pop” features a bored-sounding Snoop Dogg who is not even speaking in rhythm with the music. The main argument made for most popular music is that “it’s catchy,” as demonstrated by the album’s first hit “When I Grow Up.” That track however, is the only one that claim applies to on the entire album. After being initially attracted to the CD by the dance-party song, listeners discover that the rest of the songs on the album are simply slow, melodramatic brokenhearted ballads. The beats are generic and borderline disco in some places. The lyrics sound like everything else MTV has played since the mid-80s. Every song is about sex, controlling men, fame or what the band claims is “love.” Unfortunately, the Pussycat Dolls probably aren’t the ones to blame here. Instead, anyone who believes themselves to be a supporter of decent music should probably take it upon themselves to hospitalize the Dolls’ producer, as well as whoever wrote their songs. “If I was a man/ Just for a day/ I’d take my time on you/ That’s what a man would do…/ And once I had my way/ I’d get up, get up/ and walk away.” Betty Friedan is rolling in her grave. Marissa Blaszko / Opinion Editor

Intronaut “Prehistoricisms” Century Media Records September 16, 2008

Ever imagine what it would be like to be in a band where you knew you had unimaginable amounts of talent, great chemistry with your band mates and constantly wrote handfuls of cohesive songs put together seamlessly into albums that were so close to perfect it would be a sin to turn them off after starting them? Well, just listen to Intronaut. Yes, I understand that the opening question that you just read is nothing but me jocking the hell out of Intronaut. But with the release of “Prehistoricisms” there is absolutely no reason for me to retract that statement. Like I stated in

myspace.com/kingsofleon

the Gojira review, the fall season of 2008 has been outstanding for music, and it just so happens that three of the best releases of the year are all coming out within a few weeks time. “Prehistoricisms” is only Intronaut’s second full-length studio album, but is far more mature than any sophomore full -length. From the atmospheric opener “Primordial Soup” to the phenomenal “Any Port,” where drummer Danny Walker gets to strut his stuff, this album gives any listener who is even remotely into alternative music something to cheer about. I would be doing a severe injustice if I were to review this album and not mention the bass work of Joe Lester. A true sign of a complete band is the fusion from instrument to instrument to create listenable songs without giving off the distinct impression of cocky wankery. Lester explores every fret of his bass guitar to perfection. If you are a bassist and have been looking for an album to study, look no further than “Prehistoricisms”. I am warning you, you may end up quitting after you realize you will never be as good as Lester. I cannot say enough about how well Intronaut has been able to do for themselves over the past couple of years. They have proven to the metal community that they are here to stay, take it or leave it. I’ll take it. Nick Viccione / Entertainment Editor

Passion Pit “Chunk of Change” Frenchkiss Records September 16, 2008

Michael Angelakos, the leader behind the project known as Passion Pit, took a rather peculiar path after his girlfriend probably pushed him out the door to show everyone else what a delicious six course/track meal this was. Angelakos gathered a bunch of handsome looking scruffy men in glasses to accompany him for live stage performances, and the stage was set for Passion Pit to blow up and surpass expectations. Squeezed tightly into the sardine packed Toads Place one night last May, I gazed up to the front to watch a band that I didn’t quite catch the name of, for my friend and I were eagerly awaiting Girl Talk to take the stage. Passion Pit began their elaborate array of electronic pop that could give one a mouthful of cavities. Dancing as hard as we possibly could, we realized at the end of the night that this band had reigned over the main act. Not many words can be used to describe the tracks; this is an album that you just have to listen to immediately, especially the songs “Sleepyhead” and “I’ve Got Your Number”. You’ll be hearing their name pop up a lot more often, so you might as well get on the ball and like it before others do; there’s obvious gloating potential here.

Karyn Danforth / Editor-at-Large

THE RECORDER / Wednesday, October 1, 2008 / ENTERTAINMENT

Biggs Eclipsed by ‘Best Friend’; Cook Plays… Himself

Flashy ‘Eagle Eye’ Lacks Originality Melissa Traynor Editor-in-Chief

For what “Eagle Eye” lacks in originality, the explosive action and plot twists attempt to make up for it – though the twists were choppy and action unbelievable. The story line revolves round two strangers – Jerry Shaw (Shia LaBeouf), or the antiauthority youth whose military-involved twin just died, and Rachel Holloman (Michelle Monaghan), the single mother who just sent away her son on a musical school trip to Washington D.C. Their lives become dependent on each other after they receive increasingly threatening phone calls ordering them to do certain things that will eventually satisfy the caller. The caller, as the viewer finds out eventually, is an omnipresent artificial intelligence with a personality. Conveniently after twin Ethan Shaw dies, the AI frames, tricks, pushes and commands them to do things that they would not have otherwise done, such as escaping from high-security detainment by leaping onto train tracks and carrying out an extraordinary car chase, in which a Porshe Cayenne outruns/smarts an uncountable amount of police cruisers. What the movie does have, however, is the pure quality of entertainment. Car chases, especially an explosive one between a car and a small, unmanned aircraft through a tunnel, become the most interesting parts of this movie, giving viewers the action relief they need from a slow-moving plot. It’s too difficult to reason out the rest of the movie without giving away the final moments, but there is an AI-driven conspiracy. It involves a mechanical mind, so advanced that it can track anyone and anything via satellite with security cameras, cell phones, even an implant-

allmoviephoto.com

ed homing device, but, like a computer, is too literal. And it will prove fatal for some. For example, it interprets the constitution literally and is one of those “for the greater good” minds in which many will be sacrificed for the overall cause to spare the nation. Aside from the AI, the character developments are pretty much wasted. Any credibility building up in the beginning of Eagle is eventually knocked down. Shaw is pressured into committing all of these crimes, yet everything he stands for, or rather doesn’t stand for, gets washed away in direct contrast to who he was in the beginning of the movie. He prides himself on being a little bit of a rebel, or the complete opposite of his motivated, 183 I.Q.-touting twin Ethan. Just as easily as Shaw turns away support from his parents, the prospect of a good job beyond his position as counter clerk at “Copy Cabana”, he jumps on board with this mysterious voice and usually doesn’t ask why. It should also be mentioned that Billy Bob Thornton and Rosario Dawson, or Agent Thomas Morgan and U.S. Air Force rep Zoe Perez, steal the show at times. Morgan’s sole job is to track down Shaw and Holloman, but actually spends most of the movie quarreling with Perez in the endless “territory” battle between government agencies. Like Shaw’s character, Morgan backs down and gives in when his chips are down, and completely destroys whatever character credibility he had. Providing an anti-government-supervision spin, Eagle Eye ultimately does manage to criticize an all-powerful government. It echoes many of the concerns that Big Brother has his hands in everything and may be able to use it against ordinary citizens, not terrorists. The unfortunate part is, Eagle isn’t a documentary and doesn’t focus enough on its characters or theme to master one.

allmoviephoto.com

Joe Zajac Staff Writer

Before this review commences, I would like to admit something publicly – seeing this film has marked a major turning point in my film-reviewing career. The thought of leaving the theater has never once crossed my mind, until now. “My Best Friend’s Girl” is so repulsive on every conceivable level, and displays such a modicum of forced and hackneyed kiddie humor that it caused me to physically wretch on more than one occasion. Having to suffer through the twin terrors of Dane Cook and Jason Biggs is much like having one’s head dunked into a vat of bile and phlegm over and over again for the entire 101 minutes. This movie is not an assault on the senses per se, because anyone whose IQ eclipses 80 will invariably be forced to turn off one or more senses in order to make it through the movie. The film centers on our poor protagonist schlep, Dustin (Jason Biggs) who recruits his buddy Tank (Dane Cook) to take his ex-girlfriend (Kate Hudson) on a date. Problem is, the proposed date is actually a set up between the two guys to help win Dustin’s ex-girlfriend back, and in true cinematic fashion, plans go awry and Tank falls for Dustin’s ex-girlfriend. Who will he choose? Will true love prevail? Occasionally, movies with even the most pedestrian of plots win audiences over with a superb cast, but MBFG is not one of those movies. Dane Cook plays… Dane Cook (probably stricken with the Adam Sandler bug), playing the role of your smarmy, asshole friend who suffers from bouts of unwarranted self importance.

In other words, he plays his onstage persona. I can’t fault him for that, because some people have naturally limited acting range and rather than honing their skill at one profession, fail at many. No luck, Chuck. And then there’s Biggs, the perpetually unfunny man-child who stars as the Hardy to Cook’s Laurel. Though ostensibly the lead, he manages to blend into the background whenever a more interesting figure occupies the same scene – be it co-star Cook or a particularly colorful chair. Believability has never been Biggs’ strong suit, either. Unfortunately, unless his romantic opposite is a baked good, then he will never be taken seriously as a “romantic” character, and MBFG is no exception. There is no chemistry between any of these actors whatsoever, and Biggs seemed outclassed by Hudson at every opportunity. Suspension of disbelief is one thing, but this is ludicrous. One might as well replace Biggs with Tiny Tim. His quirky and neurotic shtick, reminiscent of Woody Allen after a stroke, is running razor thin by this movie. The plot is pedestrian and predictable, a fact made all the more noticeable in the absence of any laughs. If the quarter-filled theater was any indication, then this film has not done its best in attracting the predicted movie crowd, who perhaps clamor for something more highbrow than this cinematic afterbirth. Both snores and groans were competing for laughs within the theater, and if that’s the case, then you know Biggs is the lead role. Pass on this one, unless for some unfathomable reason you enjoy the comedic stylings of Dane Cook, or get free passes.

Not Perfect, St. Anna Still Appeals with Sentimentality Michael Walsh Staff Writer

This past summer Spike Lee promoted his new World War II epic “Miracle at St. Anna” by criticizing director Clint Eastwood’s Iwo Jima film “Flags of our Fathers” for not having a single black actor on screen. Lee, known for his films dealing with controversial issues in society, was quoted saying, “That was his version. The negro soldier did not exist. I have a different version.” “St. Anna” follows four soldiers of the allblack 92nd Infantry Division. After saving a young Italian boy they come to a small Tuscany village where they wait for orders from headquarters. The film’s story is inspired by the 1944 Sant’Anna di Stazzema massacre. The film opens with a bang of intrigue and a sharp indication of Spike Lee’s message. It

begins in 1980s New York. Hector Negron is seen watching the Duke, John Wayne, in an old black and white war movie. The only problem for Negron is there’s really nothing black about it. The next day, while working at the post office, Negron kills a man in cold blood. Soon after, police stumble upon the missing sculpted head from the Ponte Santa Trinita in Florence, which acts as the framing device for the rest of the story. Ultimately, this film is hurt by the overinvolving script. James McBride’s script of his own novel contains too much focus on too many characters. Not only does this film put the spotlight on the four soldiers and the young boy but also on the Italian partisan group, family relations in the Tuscan village, and so on and so forth. Running at 160 minutes, a film with as many characters and subplots as this one can’t help but meander through.

Despite these imperfections, “St. Anna” is still a very powerful, emotional and jointed film. Even when I was taken away from the main story, I never felt too disconnected. I’d rather have too much to care for than too little. Lee’s ability as a true and brilliant artist is shown throughout. There are a plethora of stunning scenes that come to life thanks to smart dialogue, great cinematography and vibrant atmospheres. A few of the combat scenes are very jolting and powerful. While they may not rival the likes of “Saving Private Ryan” they do impress enough. “St. Anna” has a clear message about the prejudice against blacks in the war. Lee’s attempt to convey this message, while noble, was a disappointment. At times the message becomes stereotypical, overbearing and too obvious. Alternatively, there are scenes that

effectively and powerfully represent the message. Lee’s handling of the issue is average. “Miracle at St. Anna” is a solid film that features a lot, but can’t really master much of what it has. The essence of war, much like the other themes of romance, loyalty, brotherhood and betrayal is there but not perfected. The film is too epic for its own good as the encompassing script is simply in too many places at the same time. The ending is poorly handled and it feels like Lee never reaches his ultimate point. The acting is average as no one stands out in the crowd and no one falls far below par. Despite this, Lee’s ambitious effort is to be recognized. His artistry saves this film from becoming the muddled mess many directors would allow it to be. A great story is being told and there are enough intriguing and captivating moments in this film that make it very enjoyable to watch.

THE RECORDER / Wednesday, October 1, 2008 / ENTERTAINMENT

CALENDAR WEEK OF OCTOBER 1

MUSIC 10.1 Kataklysm @ The Palladium Worcester, Mass. 7 p.m. / $20 10.2 Pinback @ Toads Place New Haven, Conn. 8 p.m. / $17

breakthrough arrived one night when she replaced Morrissey’s opening act less than an hour before showtime.

10.5 Maylene and the Sons of Disaster @ The Palladium Worcester, Mass. 6 p.m. / $15

FILM 10.1 Religulous @ Bow Tie Cinemas Hartford, Conn.

10.2 Frozen River @ Madison Art Cinemas Madison, Conn. 7:30 p.m. Ray Eddy, an upstate New York trailer mom, is lured into the world of illegal immigrant smuggling when she meets a Mohawk girl who lives on a reservation that straddles the US-Canadian border. Broke after her husband takes off with the down payment for their new doublewide, Ray reluctantly teams up with Lila, a smuggler, and the two begin making runs across the frozen St. Lawrence River carrying illegal Chinese and Pakistani immigrants in the trunk of Ray’s Dodge Spirit.

10.3 – 10.5 In Search of a Midnight Kiss @ Real Art Ways Hartford, Conn. $6.25

Through 11.30 Grand Scale: Monumental Prints in the Age of Dürer and Titian @ Yale University 1:30 p.m., 4:15 p.m., 7:00 p.m. Comedian Bill Maher examines the presence of religion in many of the big news stories of recent years, from Muslim riots over cartoons to the Ten Commandments in front of courthouses, a born-again Christian in the White House and Scientology in the birthing room.

10.1 Hamlet 2

From emerging, award-winning filmmaker Alex Holdridge and the producer of “Before Sunrise” and “Dazed and Confused”, “In Search of A Midnight Kiss” is a funny and bittersweet look at love, sex and modern romance. With an unsold script, no concrete plans, and a love life reduced to getting caught in compromising positions (alone!), a twenty-nine-year aspiring writer, Wilson (Scoot McNairy) just had the worst year of his life. That is until his best friend, Jacob, browbeats him into posting a personal ad for New Year’s Eve on Craig’s List.

ART Opens 10.4 Archaeology of Wonder @ Real Art Ways Hartford, Conn. With Tegan & Sara you can never really be sure what is going to come out of their mouths. Their first word as babies was a four-letter one, according to family legend, and since then the only thing that’s changed is that now people pay to hear what they have to say. If you want to hear their legendary onstage stories along with some new four-letter words, buy a ticket to their next live show.

10.5 Melissa Ferrick @ The Space Hamden, Conn. 7 p.m. / $10 Singer/songwriter Melissa Ferrick emerged in 1994 as part of a group of new female alternative singer/songwriters, much in the vein of Liz Phair. Ferrick began singing in coffeehouses after dropping out of college, eventually winding up in Boston. Her major

10.5 American Masterpieces Tour @ New Britain Museum New Britain, Conn. 1-2 p.m. This one-hour tour, a survey of three centuries of NBMAA’s masterpieces, provides a lively overview of the permanent collection from the Colonial period through today. Selections from special exhibitions may be included on the tour. This tour is also available to visitors on Sundays from 1-2 p.m. and is free with Museum admission.

Hailing from San Diego, Pinback is a band comprised of two principal players: Armistead Burwell Smith IV (Zach) and Rob Crow. Pinback started as a part-time endeavor back in 1998, when Zach’s band Three Mile Pilot went on an extended hiatus and Rob found time away from his other musical interests (mainly Thingy and Heavy Vegetable). Between two musicians, Pinback lays out beautiful melodies that are deceptively complex, layering sounds and instruments upon one another and trading contrasting vocal parts with ease.

10.4 Tegan & Sara @ The Palladium Worcester, Mass. 6 p.m. / $30

with its meticulous discipline, and wonder with its radical subjectivity – to examine contemporary works of art. This exhibition was conceived and is being curated by Kristina Newman-Scott, Real Art Ways’ Director of Visual Arts. Central to the concept of the exhibition is the symbolic significance of archaeology: Freud used archaeological excavation as a metaphor for the process of remembering experiences in therapy. Indeed, such language has worked its way into our daily parlance; we often speak of “unearthing” facts and memories. Archaeology of Wonder posits questions about the way we use artifacts and art to approach those relationships to the past that are difficult to pin down, yet evoke inescapable reactions in the mind of the viewer, thus linking them to the world of wonder.

@ Cinestudio Hartford, Conn. 7:30 p.m. After an opening recapping the highlights of Dana Marschz’s unsuccessful acting career (undignified television commercials and a bit acting part), the film joins him “where dreams go to die”: Tucson, Arizona. He is an even more unsuccessful suburban high school drama teacher, with only two (enthusiastic) students and a history of producing school plays that are merely stage adaptations of Hollywood films (his latest being Erin Brockovich).

New Haven, Conn. 10 a.m. This exhibition showcases mural-size prints from the late fifteenth century to 1630 when ambitions – to rival painted images, to assert and justify political rule or simply to adorn walls – prompted printed imagery to expand.

Did we miss something?

4-7 p.m Archaeology of Wonder brings together two disparate approaches to the past – archaeology

E-mail us with your weekly campus event listings at ccsurecorder@gmail.com.

18 THE RECORDER Wednesday, October 1, 2008

Lifestyles

Looks (and Smells) Can be Deceiving

Edward Gaug / The Recorder

Caroline Dearborn Staff Writer

My recent visit to Newington’s Puerto Vallarta, located on the Burlington Turnpike turned out to be satisfactory. At first glance, the warm, sun-dried mustard seed color of the restaurant’s building seems to draw a customer in. The Mexican music coming from inside the restaurant softly drifted into the parking lot and beckoned customers to come inside and join in the fun. Outside, I observed one of the best landscaped restaurants that I have ever seen. Flowering plants were positioned around the walkway and the parking lot was decently lit. Walking toward the restaurant I could see a patio area with available outdoor seating. With an inviting air, Puerto Vallarta compelled my companion and I to enter the restaurant anticipating some good Mexican food in an authentic atmosphere. The staff that greeted us were pleasant and outgoing and seated us immediately. Our waiter brought over tortilla chips, salsa and glasses of water. However, without being provided plates, the chips became a little messy as they began to crumble and the salsa began to drip all over the table. I was extremely excited as I ordered a decently priced combo of a chicken enchilada and a beef taco. My guest ordered a simple cheese-

burger and French fries, as she is not a fan of Mexican food. Unfortunately, this is when our night took a bad turn. Upon visiting the women’s restroom to wash my hands before my meal, I was absolutely appalled. The restroom was a filthy mess and smelled awful. After quickly investigating the disaster without getting too close, I came to the conclusion that a clogged toilet, with what appeared to be a bucket of some sort stuck inside of it, was the root of the stench. Looking around, I realized the appearance was overall very rundown. I suddenly found myself dreading the meal to come. I believe in the caveat that, “if the bathrooms are clean, chances are the kitchen is kept clean” and a dull stomach ache began to settle in as I walked back to the table. Contemplating the situation at hand, I began to observe my surroundings. The booth in which we were seated was decorated with elongated, brick-like stripes that made the place feel more authentic as the colors were characteristically deep orange-reds. Throughout the restaurant there were several scattered plants. The green plants against the mustard-seed walls gave the restaurant a middle-of-the-desert feel. The walls were also adorned with three-dimensional pictures mostly in gold. This complemented the hanging lamps over each table, which had ceramiclooking shades with circular holes in them,

making the lamps resemble blue mushrooms. This was kind of funky but it blended with the whole atmosphere. As my friend and I were waiting for our food, we could not help but to notice how alive the bar scene was for a Wednesday night at 9:30 p.m. Set aside in a separate room, we could see the bar area through beautiful cut outs in each wall that allowed the customers to peek into different areas of the restaurant. Surprisingly, the bar was well lit with a large chandelier, as opposed to the dim dining area. This felt ironically inviting, since bar areas are usually more dimly lit than the restaurant, not the other way around. I took notice of a man, who appeared to have been working in the kitchen all evening, as he sat down in a booth diagonal from ours. He placed a huge plate, piled high with food, in front of himself as I thought to myself, “It is always a good sign when the staff eats the food. It must mean that it is decent.” I then shared this thought with my friend since I had told her about my unpleasant discovery of the restroom and she, too was concerned about how the food would turn out. After waiting for an average amount of time, our meals arrived. My friend told me that her cheeseburger was enjoyable and she actually ate the whole thing – which can be viewed as a testament to the quality of a meal. I sampled some of her fries, which proved pretty good. This is a worthy point for the restaurant be-

cause you do not necessarily have to order Mexican, even though you are eating at a Mexican restaurant. I procrastinated trying my order of Mexican food although I was delighted to see that I had received quite a large portion for the combo that I had ordered. The side of rice, average in taste, was a very generous portion. A side of beans smothered in cheese, to my delight, tasted good. As soon as I tried a bit of my chicken enchilada I was completely blown away. The chicken was marvelous; in fact, out-of-this world might even be a better way to describe it. The chicken was perfectly moist and clearly these chefs had their enchilada skills down to a science. The next part of my dish, the beef taco, was just a normal taco, nothing to really marvel over, but at least not a disgusting disappointment. From my trip to Puerto Vallarta I have concluded several things. First and foremost, one will definitely get their money’s worth eating there. All of the food was generously underpriced for the portion received. Second, the chicken enchilada is something that I highly recommend. Also, it is good to know that this restaurant has alternative dishes. This might be a good first date restaurant, since it has good prices and other alternatives to Mexican dishes, such as grilled ham and cheese. Just beware of the bathroom.

‘Out of the Darkness’ Walk Aims to Prevent Suicide Caroline Dearborn Staff Writer

The threat of information overload is pervasive in society today. There is so much daily exposure to how people should look and act that the pressure can easily become too hard for one to bear. Pressures to conform and be perfect are often times too demanding on a person. As a result, one can slip into a darkness from which some never return. Hoping to help shed some light on this often-silent problem, CCSU grad student Christopher Michalski has been working to set up a team for the annual “Out of the Darkness Walk”, an event in which he has participated in since his brother, Joseph Raymond Michalski, took his own life in 2004. “As the leading cause of death amongst people fourteen to twenty-five [that is suicide], I felt the need to bring CCSU out of darkness,” said Michalski. “I spoke extensively with Tim Corbitt at Counseling and Wellness to set up a vigil for survivors of suicide.” Organizing this vigil led Michalski to put together a team for the walk. The CCSU stu-

dent group, Natural Helpers, assisted him in this process. “They were so receptive of this initiative that I was astounded, since I didn’t know what to expect,” Michalski explained. According to Michalski, it was the passing of his brother that inspired him to join this cause. “The first year it was held was very tough for me. Coincidentally, my brother used to ride the bike trails there on a regular basis with his childhood friend, Nicholas Roman,” he said of the walk that originally took place at the West Hartford Reservoir. Suicide affects the families left behind even after time has passed. Michalski has noted this with care, inviting loved ones of those passed to join in on the cause. “Those of us who have seen the aftermath will still need guidance throughout our lives. Time does not heal all wounds – the pain just gets softer,” said Michalski. Michalski hopes that by setting up a team for the “Out of the Darkness Walk” people who have been affected by suicide will find support within the CCSU community.

Michalski explained an experience at one of the walks as allowing the sorrow, guilt and pain, all tied to his brother’s passing, to wash away. “I knew if I could find such happiness on a dreary day, I could find happiness once again,” he said. Proceeds from the “Out of the Darkness Walk” will be donated to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. The money earned will go toward AFSP’s research and education programs aimed at preventing future suicide attempts. According to its Web site, AFSP is a notfor-profit organization exclusively dedicated to both understanding and preventing suicide.

To achieve this goal, AFSP focuses on researching, educating and reaching out to people affected by suicide and those suffering from mood disorders. If you would like to sponsor Team CCSU, or if you would like to participate on the team, contact Christopher Michalski at st_michalskic@ccsu.edu. The walk will take place October 4, at Wickham Park in Manchester. It will begin at 10 a.m. and end around 12:30 p.m. Check-in time begins 9 a.m.

THE RECORDER / Wednesday, October 1, 2008 / LIFESTYLES

Career Services Questions Answered Take Advantage of On-Campus Resources to Find a Job Jane Natoli

Lifestyles Editor

The competition for jobs is always fierce among college graduates and with a troubled economy it won’t get any easier to find a job right after college. That means that while you are still in school, you should do everything you can to help yourself stand out from other potential job candidates by gaining as much knowledge and experience as possible while you are still in college – and by making sure you are entering the career you want in the first place. Luckily, we have a resource on campus to help students and alumni decide what they want to do with their futures and give them the tools they need to shine in their chosen careers. What is Career Services? Pat Deloy, Director of Career Services here at CCSU, wants everyone to know that Career Services does a lot more than post job listings. She says that Career Services offers assistance in career development for students and alumni, and should be a part of the educational process. Students looking for information on a career they are interested in or those who have no idea what they want to do should visit Career Services in Willard 100 as soon as possible to start figuring out what is the best career for them. Deloy says that most college students change their intended major during their years at Central, or enter college without a clear idea of what they want to do. Some students know that they want to study a particular subject they like, but may not know what kind of career applications there are for their major. These are all common situations students find themselves in and Career Services can help you figure out the answers to all of your questions. When should I start visiting Career Services? Deloy encourages students to visit Career Services as freshmen. The sooner you choose what career is a good match for you, the sooner you can start to take the right classes, gain applicable experience and work on the skills you need to succeed at the job you want after college. The first step is to stop by Career Services and their Web site, www.ccsu.edu/career, to orient yourself by scrolling through the selfpaced tutorial on the various services offered and setting up your username and password to get into Central Connections. The application allows students to upload resumes and to browse and apply for jobs and internships. After you’ve visited Career Services and started to research career options, you can take part in everything else offered: internships, part time jobs, co-op jobs, career fairs, resume and interview help, skills evaluations and when you are ready for full-time work, on-campus recruiting and full-time job opportunities. According to Deloy, one of the biggest benefits of using Career Services is that students are able to use the tools and advice they have to make decisions about future careers, college majors and what to do with a particular major.

Fall Favorites in Central Connecticut: Roadside Orchard Markets

Deloy also says that identifying what skills you have and will need for your career and learning how to communicate those skills to a potential employer for a full-time job or internship is important for students to work on while still in college. Once you’ve decided on a career, Career Services will help you secure an internship, part-time job or volunteer spot that will help you gain the necessary experience that will set you apart from your competition after graduation. All this will prepare you to launch into your senior year. You will have perfected your Roger’s apple selection stood out from the rest. resume and mastered interview skills with help and support all along the way. Caroline Dearborn Staff Writer What if I’m a senior and I’ve never used Jane Natoli Career Services? Lifestyles Editor

If you are a senior this year and you haven’t looked into Career Services, it’s not too late. You can still get help with your resume, interview skills, and you can take part in on-campus recruiting and career fairs and you can talk to a career counselor if you are still uncertain about what you want to do after graduation. Going to the Career Center may be a bit out of your way and may take some special scheduling in your already busy life as a student, but there are only benefits to gain. Sometimes the value of career counseling can only be seen a few years later when you are into your career and you realize that you are successful because of their help in directing yourself onto a solid career path while you were still in college. How do I know I’m ready to start looking for a career? Definitely consider stopping by Career Services when you start your major’s coursework. It is important to understand what a career is all about before you get yourself into it because you may find out that you don’t like the professional side of your major. The Career Center can help point you in the direction of professional experience alongside your coursework and can help you find what professional organizations are available for you to join. It is way better to have a job that will help you realize your dreams in the future than a mindless one that merely pays your bills now. Based on her experience working with students, Deloy says that somewhere between sophomore and junior years in college, a lot of students have an “ah-ha” moment and realize that they need to start planning for their future. It’s at this point in their studies that many students begin to check out the Career Center. But that doesn’t mean you can’t take advantage of their many services at any time during college – the earlier you go, the less classes you’ll waste on a major that leads you toward a profession you really don’t like. Plus, once you know about the vast resources on the Web site, including career information look up sites and a downloadable step-by-step resume guide, you’ll find reasons to visit all on your own. Don’t waste your time in college studying something that won’t lead you to your dream job. Take advantage of all of the services the Career Center offers so that you are ready to take flight into a successful, rewarding career when you graduate from college.

Looking for fresh, local apples this fall season? In central Connecticut, you can have your pick of the many markets, orchards and farms that line the roads and attract tourists throughout this colorful season. But even though each of these destinations is bursting with a variety of fruits, vegetables and other treats like apple cider and chocolate-covered goodies, be aware that you’re also supporting local farms. We recently set out to sample some of the orchards’ markets in our area. Luckily we started our trip off right. One spot that never fails to impress is Lyman Orchards in Middlefield. The large homestead offers more fall pastimes than most farms around, including fruit picking, mazes, a market, a bakery and even a golf club. Before heading to the fields, you can find your way through the four-acre ladybug corn maze for $9 – $8 if you print out a coupon from their Website, www.lymanorchards.com, before you go. Even on a rainy day, Lyman’s market, The Apple Barrel, is buzzing with customers looking for pre-picked apples, other fruits and vegetables and a huge selection of prepared foods. The bakery offers famous high-top apple pies, fresh breads, donuts (seek out the cinnamon) and desserts. The selection is quite impressive; with muffins, cupcakes, éclairs, brownies, Boston cream donuts, crème puffs and more, you are bound to find something desirable. After walking around the market, the aromas encourage you to sit down with a lunch in the overly crowded and scattered seating area and enjoy The Apple Barrel a while longer. The orchard offers “Breakfast on the Deck” weekend mornings and serves everything “from soup to nuts.” Whether you are in the mood for a sandwich, or merely a biscuit, participating in the food culture of this active market allows you to truly be involved in The Apple Barrel experience. You could even just grab a cup of coffee or apple cider. While Lyman Orchards is always a wonderful experience, because rain or shine there are always goodies and produce in-stock and inside, other smaller orchards and farms did not turn out to be so delightful. Bishop Farms & Winery on South Meriden Road in Cheshire was practically barren even though the store has been open since the beginning of September. Our hopes were raised when signs indicated that the barn offered antiques, but inside appeared to be mostly fake flower arrangements and centerpieces (made in China) set on older, run-down furniture. Furthermore, the main store was a hodge-podge of junk; glassware, dried soup mixtures, convenience store packaged candy as well as dolls and fairy statues.

Edward Gaug / The Recorder

What we thought would save our trip to Bishop’s – the bakery and ice cream shop – just furthered our disappointment. The bakery held merely a counter of packaged cakes; all of the cases that we presumed would have housed many pastry delights were completely empty and looked as though they had not been touched in a long time. The scene did not mesh with the mouthwatering scent of sweet dough in the “bakery” since there appeared to be no visible signs of treats. To make matters worse, the small ice cream selection sat with no pride of presentation in a dingy display cooler. When we saw what looked to be freezer-burning buckets that were haphazardly thrown in a case, we found ourselves in a hurry to leave the place. The next farm shop we stopped in at least didn’t fool us into excitement before the disappointment set in. Norton Brothers Orchard on Academy Road in Cheshire consisted of a small store with a lot of the same touristy-gift store trinkets and although a wider selection of fruit was present here, such as plums, pears and apples, it did not appear to be freshly picked or welcoming. The highlight of Norton Brothers was the chocolate selection that, although completely overpriced, was supplied by CC’s Candy located in Wolcott, Conn. A wide range of choices from chocolate lollipops to chocolate-covered rice crispy bars and Oreos did the trick. The CC’s Candy selection gave us some encouragement to continue on with our market trail and sparked the idea to head toward Wolcott to Roger’s Orchard on the MeridenWaterbury Turnpike on the Southington/ Wolcott border. Roger’s turned out to rank somewhere in between the Cheshire disappointments and the wonderful Lyman Orchards. Rather small and a bit run down, the open building of the market housed fresh produce, a small onsite bakery with delicious sugar and apple cider donuts, many different pies and friendly clerks. What seemed to stick out at Roger’s was the overwhelming apple selections. Barrels and barrels of different varieties covered the floor. There was even an apple directory on the wall that explained which selections were good for eating, cooking or baking. This caught our attention, and would have been helpful at Lyman Orchards when we struggled with picking an apple variety to bake a pie. Despite our less than successful trip into the countryside, there remain too many orchards and markets to name and discover. In the coming weeks, the trees will be changing colors and the weather will turn cool and crisp, ripe conditions for such autumn activities such as apple picking. It is a lovely way to spend a fall day driving in the country looking for a great farmer’s market. Just remember, not all orchards are grown equally.

THE RECORDER / Wednesday, October 1, 2008 / ENTERTAINMENT

TALKING WITH

FORGET PARIS

Nick Viccione

Entertainment Editor

I caught up with Adam Ferrari, guitarist and lead singer of local pop band Forget Paris. We chatted about what it takes to be catchy, how much work goes into their music and, most importantly, what three movies he thinks are better than “The Big Lebowski”. Nick Viccione: Just to let our readers know – who may not be familiar with Forget Paris – what are you guys all about; a brief history, why you all got together and what you see yourselves accomplishing? Adam Ferrari: Forget Paris started back in the fall of 2005. Tyler [Cohen – vocals, guitar, piano] and I had been playing in a couple local bands at the time. We started hanging out and writing songs at his apartment in Brookfield and everything just kind of clicked. We recruited some more people, started rehearsing and just sort of went with it. I know it sounds cliché, but we got together for a love of playing music that we all enjoyed and we have been working really hard at what we do for the past three years. We practice all the time in order to bring the best possible show to the people that come out and support. As a whole, our band strives to do this for a career. I would love nothing more than to have a job where I can tour all the time playing show after show with my best friends. NV: So you three guys were not all friends previously? AF: Tyler and Rob, our old drummer, had been playing in another local band for a while. Erick, our old bassist, and I had been playing together in this other band called Two Weeks From Tuesday since sophomore year of high school. The four of us knew of each other but never really hung out until the band came about. NV: Having been a musician for a while, do you find it easier working with some of your best friends, or dudes you just met randomly and started jamming with?

AF: When we started, it was such a compromise. Tyler and I had both been lead singers and songwriters of our previous bands. As soon as we started writing together, though, it just clicked. I think the first night we ever collaborated we ended up writing like two or three songs that made the EP we recorded. Now, almost three years in, the two of us know how each other operates and it’s just a big idea fest. He is one of my best friends and I feel that has to do with why the music we make is so heart felt. I think it’s a toss up. If you truly love music, I think it might be easy to work with anyone who shares that same passion. NV: Sometimes it’s hard to find the right people - the kind of people that really do want to have fun, but can get down to work when it matters. AF: We work so hard at playing. As soon as we hit the practice space, it’s instant work mode. We’ll sit there for long periods of time just looping parts. We figure, if we play it for a while, we’ll get comfortable with it and create the best possible lick for that area of the song. NV: Speaking of writing, now that I have been reviewing music for a while, and have grown into my own type of critic - I must say, I was skeptical when I first visited your MySpace page and listened to the music. And I found myself being really hooked by the sheer catchiness of it all. How hard is it, and how many ideas/vocal lines do you guys end up trashing because they don’t live up to your “catchy” standards? AF: It’s funny that you say that. Whenever we are working on a melody for a song, we usually create a million of them. We get like giddy schoolgirls when it comes to vocal lines because we are so excited to write them. We’ll sit there for a while just playing chords singing lines back and forth, harmonizing... That’s usually how the melodies come out. We sing to each other until we find the one we like the best.

NV: So you guys have an EP out right now and that is as far as your “discography” goes? AF: Correct. We recorded Spanish Beaches back in 2006 and released it in January of 2007. Thus far, that is the only title this band has put out so the songs are just piling up. We really want to get into the studio to record a full-length, but that will be down the line. NV: Too expensive? AF: Yes and no. We want to create the highest quality music that we can. In order to do that, we decided to just take some time and write as much as possible. The more songs we have, the easier it is to pull out the better ones and record them. NV: You guys have a show coming up on October 4th in Woodbridge at the Amity Teen Center. I remember talking to you before the interview started, about being twenty-one and feeling old and whatnot. Do you guys think you play music that is generally catered towards “teen” fans? AF: To an extent, but all in all, it is music that we enjoy playing as well as listening to. As far as the stereotype goes, it’s okay. NV: Speaking of “listening” before, what has been on your personal playlist lately? AF: I’ve actually been listening a lot to this band called Deas Vail. They are this ambient rock band out of Arkansas that has such great music. I’ve been digging this band called Farewell Flight, too. And of course, I am always listening to Hot Rod Circuit.

NV: Here is a question I ask everyone I interview. How do you take reviews of your music from people that for whatever reason just are not into it? I am talking about knowledgeable reviewers, who are fans of the genre of music you guys play because obviously there is a lot of hard work and effort put into every song. AF: To be completely truthful, we don’t let it get to us. We figure that every one is entitled to their own opinion. For us to get upset over a person’s musical standpoint is absurd. That is the beauty of music – it is all opinion-based. There is no right or wrong when it comes to songs. A band that someone absolutely despises could be another person’s U2. NV: Does anyone give a shit about U2 anymore? AF: Honestly, I’m not sure. But damn, they have done a lot in their career. People should care! NV: Okay, here are some quickies. These are questions you don’t have to ponder too much. Just fun. Who is your favorite author? AF: J.D. Salinger or Donald Passman. NV: Tell us something quick that is embarrassing about yourself. AF: I am a huge NSYNC fan. How they can dance and sing without lip-syncing or losing their breath amazes me to this day. Call me what you will, they have nice voices. NV: Name three movies better than “The Big Lebowski.”

NV: I think it is important to be cultured and knowledgeable in more than just a couple of genres of music. And as far as writing goes, I am sure you’d agree. It helps; as you mature, your tastes tend to broaden.

AF: “American Psycho”, “The Boondock Saints” and “Beer League”.

AF: Yeah man, definitely. The four of us listen to so many things ranging from The Temptations and the Beatles to like Killswitch Engage and Vanna. We are the biggest music fans and I think that really comes out in our own tunes.

AF: Check us out! If you enjoy, tell all of your friends, family, babysitters and social workers!

NV: If there is anything else you’d like to say, now is your open forum to do so.