December 5, 2012 by Youngtown Edition

TheYoungtownEdition AWARD-WINNING STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF COUNTY COLLEGE OF MORRIS

VOL. 90, NO. 5

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2012

RANDOLPH, N.J.

Gold Medalist, 2009 Columbia Scholastic Press Association • First Place General Excellence, 2010 NJPA

“When you believe in someone, it’s not for a minute, or just for now, it’s forever” -Clark Kent

Shocking statistic takes over CCM LEDA COSTA Contributor

The number 91.5 has been plastered all over campus and County College of Morris students are left wondering what is going on. Select posters reveal that 91.5 is more than a number, it is a percent, and a shocking statistic. Select posters explain under the statistic that 91.5 percent of students answered “true” when asked if they can have just as much fun or more fun when not drinking alcohol or using drugs. Taylor Murphy, CCM student, said that even though her first thought was that this number was a radio station, “it was a great attention grabber and raised a lot of inquiry and questions.” Murphy said that it would have been ideal to have more explanation behind the statistic to help more people become aware sooner. This statistic came from a survey conducted by New Social Media in 2011 in which CCM was a participating school. NSE is a nonprofit organization in Morris County, N.J., that aims to educate college students on the benefits of staying above the influence when spending time with friends. NSE also goes a step further and provides events that are substance-free to prove their stance on how fun is not determined by how much alcohol is

KHUSHBU KAPADIA

NSE surveys college students on alcohol use consumed or how many drugs are taken. According to Jeremy Barkin, member of NSE, the number 91.5 was put all over campus with no explanation for a reason. He said that the sole number is supposed to be repeated all around to raise question and leave students wondering its meaning.

Barkin also said he hopes that this statistic will be on the back of students’ minds the next time they go out. NSE’s last campaign ran very similar to this one and was called the “87 Campaign.” When the survey was given out to 1200 students, 87 percent responded “yes” to the question of whether

they can have just as much fun or more fun when not drinking alcohol/using drugs. A 4.5 percent increase was seen between the current campaign and the 87 Campaign, a number NSE hopes will only rise in the future. Campus life is very supportive of this campaign and shared

that this shockingly high statistic came as a comfort. “I was pleasantly surprised and very happy about this statistic,” said Emily Guido at the Office of Campus Life. “The problem is always there, but this shows me a lot of maturity in our students.”

Gay-Straight Alliance, Fashion Club team up for Drag Fashion Show Features editor

Index

Participants hastily prepared hours before the show by getting into costumes and applying massive amounts of makeup. County College of Morris alumnus Nicholas Gittens, 20, seemed as ready as ever for the few acts he would perform. “I am ecstatic because my skirt is too short,” he said. June Wyeroski, a 19-year-old drama major, said she felt “a tad uncomfortable” because of the Saran Wrap that was wrapped around her chest. She laughed and said she felt “sort of like a man.” Jeremy Barkin, a 20-year-old business major, was getting his makeup done by his girlfriend and jokingly said he felt “pretty.” As they prepared, along with many other participants, the crowd piled into the Davidson Room of the Student Community Center at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 20 to see CCM’s second drag fashion show, “Drag Through the Decades.” The room

Editorial 2 Features 3, 5 Entertainment 4

News 7 Sports 8

was complete with a runway and chairs closely surrounding it. The president of the Gay-Straight Alliance and vice president of the Fashion Club introduced and ran the show. The show kicked off with prehistoric times as participants walked the runway with animal-print clothing. Next, they entered the 1920s. Kacie Elms, vice president of the Gay-Straight Alliance, was dressed in formal, white and black attire, and a white fedora. Barkin lip-synced to a jazz song from the 1930s in a black dress, sunglasses and a blond, curly wig. Participants followed suit as they strutted on and off the runway, displaying fashions from each decade. Gittens lip-synced to a song from the 1990s. He “rocked some dreads” with a black wig, danced in his patterned skirt and interacted with the audience. CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

Today’s Headlines

MELISSA DELLACATO

A model walks the runway at the Drag Fashion Show.

Update on NHL lockout The 2012-2013 season NHL lockout continues. page 8

Got Superman?

Why the world needs a Superman. page 2

Page 2 The Youngtown Edition

EDITORIAL

December 5, 2012

Why the world needs Superman BY DANIEL CHARDON

What was your favorite part about working on the Youngtown Edition? Colin Gallagher Sports editor “This was a new experience for me and it was rewarding to see our hard work evolve into a finished product.”

Anthony Tobar Communications manager “I enjoyed contributing articles and being the middle man that brought the paper from the press to the stands.”

Jacob Winterfield Business manager “Getting to work with a bunch of talented individuals before thye become famous.”

Ricki Sanchez Managing manager “I love all the people I worked with. They made this an amazing experience. Seeing all of our hard work create such an awesome newspaper is an unexplainable feeling. Shout out to Kristy, Taco and Danny.” Kristy Flannery Managing editor “It was a great experience working with Ricki and Danny. I loved having a final opinion on the appearence of the paper.”

Daniel Chardon Editor-in-chief “I loved everything about it. This has been a great semester for me and great way to leave CCM. Working with great people, especially Kristy and Ricki, helped make everything go smooth. Just a great experience overall.”

The Youngtown Edition The Student Newspaper of the County College of Morris County College of Morris • Mail Station SCC 226 214 Center Grove Rd., Randolph, NJ 07869-2086 Phone #: (973) 328-5224 Fax #: (973) 361-4031 E-mail: youngtownedition@gmail.com Editor in Chief................................................................. Daniel Chardon Managing Editor.....................................Kristy Flannery, Ricki Sanchez Business Manager........................................................ Jacob Winterfield News Editor....................................................................Kushbu Kapadia Features Editor.............................................................Melissa Dellacato Entertainment Editor.................................Carol Bermudez Enamorado Sports Editor...................................................................Colin Gallagher Photography Editor.........................................................................Open Layout Editor....................................................................... Jordan Barth Copy Editor................................................................... Nic SanGiacomo Online Manager.............................................................Thomas Skidmore Communications Manager.............................................. Anthony Tobar Technical Adviser...............................................................Wilma Martin

Staff: Michael Angle, Kelby Clark, Julio Rivera, Melissa Chwazik, Keri Jameson Adviser: John Soltes The Youngtown Edition is printed every other Wednesday during the fall and spring semester. Unless specified, the opinions of the editorial page are those of the editorial board. Signed letters to the editor of 250 words of fewer are welcome and should be dropped off on a disk in the Youngtown mailbox in SCC 226 or e-mailed to theyoungtownedition@yahoo.com. All students are welcome to contribute articles to The Youngtown Edition either in person or via e-mail. However, students cannot receive a byline if they belong to the organization on which they are reporting. Writers must include a telephone number where they can be reached. The deadline for submission is the Wednesday prior to the date of publication.

In the 2006 movie, public school system. The he makes and the reasons “Superman Returns”, film has absolutely noththat he makes them. A reporter Lois Lane wins ing to do with Superman. hero brings out the best in the Pulitzer Prize for her However, the title implies people,” Kent said in the article, “Why the World that people are waiting for Doesn’t Need Superman.” someone, anyone, to rectify episode “Booster.” By the She went on to explain that the problems in the Ameri- time he was ready to put on Superman had become a can education system. What the costume, he understood societal crutch for humanis interesting is the use of his purpose. ity and kept humans from Superman in the title; he Super powers aren’t reaching our full potential represents someone who needed to make this world as a civilization. Of course, can fix all problems. a better place. Police, fire it is only towards the end Superman has always of the movie that she fighters and doctors changes her mind are regular people and begins work on a “….It’s not the powers. Not the who save lives every new article, “Why the cape. It’s about standing up for day. Being a hero World Needs is about doing what Superman.” justice; for truth. As long as [evil] is right in times of The beginning of the 21st century people like you are out there, turmoil, not what is has been very dark. popular. I’ll be there. Always.” Terrorist attacks occur Superman returns almost on a regular Superman to the silver screen basis, from the 9/11 in next year’s “Man attacks to political riots in Egypt. Natural of Steel”. The first teaser stood for “truth, justice and trailer features a voiceover disasters have decimated cities across the globe rang- the American way.” In the by Russell Crowe’s “Jor21st century though, that is ing from the United States not enough. And Superman El” that defines who Superto Japan. has taken notice of that too. man is. “You will give the There is one man who Superman does not can make the world a better people an ideal to strive tojust represent the “Ameriplace though. That man is wards…. in time, they will can way” anymore; he is Superman. join you in the sun, in time a beacon of hope for all That might sound fayou will help them accomof mankind. Superman natical because Superman plish wonders,” he said. doesn’t discriminate based is a comic book character. on race, creed, color, or Superman isn’t the This isn’t suggesting that sex. He helps whoever someone go put on blue savior of planet earth. He needs help. He has come to is simply a light to show us tights, a red cape, and try define the best of humanity to save the world. Over how to do it ourselves. while transcending it at the the years Superman has “….It’s not the powsame time. become more than a pop ers. Not the cape. It’s about The television show culture icon, he’s a symbol “Smallville” was about for hope, inspiration, and standing up for justice; for Clark Kent’s journey from peace. truth. As long as [evil] peoIn 2010 a documentary Kansas farm boy to earth’s ple like you are out there, greatest hero. “The suit titled “Waiting for SuperI’ll be there. Always,” doesn’t make the hero. A man” was released. The Superman said in “Action hero’s made in the modocumentary is about the failure of the American ment by the choices that Comics” number 180.

IEEE club hosts expert on alternative energy KELBY CLARK contributor

When students are not preoccupied with their coursework, they, along with the faculty and staff at County College of Morris, have the opportunity to be inspired, informed, and entertained by numerous guest speakers that frequently appear on campus. On Thursday, Nov. 15, CCM’s’ Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers club, hosted guest speaker, Alfredo Matos—former Vice President of Renewable & Energy Solutions at PSEG —in the Davidson room of the SCC. With over 30 years of experience in domestic and international energy infrastructure, renewables, energy efficiency businesses operator and developer, Matos has distinct expertise on this topic. Yet, even despite his background in the alternative energy industry, Matos specifically focused on the benefits of solar power throughout the presentation. According to Matos, the state government provides incentives

for a select few innovations, such as harvesting solar energy. This enables companies and citizens to slowly reduce our dependence on fossil fuels for energy sources. For example, our state legislature has instituted policies requiring a fixed amount of solar energy to be developed in New Jersey within a specific period of time. “On the federal level, a 30 percent investment tax credit for solar energy has been put into place meaning: for every dollar you spend building a solar system, 30 percent of every dollar is reimbursed to you on your tax return”, Matos said Throughout his presentation, Matos outlined the incredible efficiency of what solar energy, detailing that the energy is not hazardous, solar panels are not easily damaged or strongly affected by inclement weather, and that the panels last on average at least twenty years. Matos said that although it is expensive to make electricity out of solar power, the costs are decreasing. The potential for this power is great, specifically in New Jer-

sey, considering that “New Jersey is only second to the state of California for total solar capacity in the United States,” Matos said. As most have probably noticed, CCM has been involved in the solar energy initiative with the placement of solar panels in many parking lots on campus. “County College of Morris participates in a solar power purchase agreement . . . which basically means that the college allows third party developers to own operate and maintain solar power on campus grounds, and in return the college receives stable electricity at a lower cost,” Matos said. Matos closed the presentation by taking questions and showing listeners a website called “PV Watts,” which allows anyone to estimate the energy usage, the cost savings of solar energy, and the energy production of one’s surrounding area. Matos is currently exploring and working to improve the solar power technologies of SMART and Micro grids.

FEATURES

December 5, 2012

The Youngtown Edition Page 3

Cyber Monday sales increase

MELISSA DELLACATO Features editor

Shopping online has become popular over the years and Cyber Monday is the result. Compared to 2011, online sales significantly increased throughout Thanksgiving weekend, according to a study by the IBM Digital Analytic Benchmark, an organization that measures online marketing results. Cyber Monday sales were “very strong,” said Brad Wilson, publisher of cybermonday2012. com. “It easily cleared prior records and was the biggest eCommerce day on record, likely with $1.5 billion in retail sales.” These sales were indeed record-breaking. Cyber Monday sales grew 30.3 percent since 2011, according to the study. “Cyber Monday is better because there’s no hassle,” said Stephan Joldzic, a 19-year-old computer science major at the

County College of Morris. He said that his family just “doesn’t do Black Friday.” “I must say you get more accomplished on Cyber Monday,” said Amanda Tierney, an 18-yearold biology major. “You can actually get what you’re looking for.” She said her mother bought Christmas presents from J.C. Penney Co. and landed good deals. J.C. Penney Co. and many other department stores were offering “compelling” deals on Cyber Monday, according to the study. For example, sales in department stores grew 43.1 percent. According to Wilson, Cyber Monday started six years ago and was really only hype back then, as there weren’t even that many great deals. But, as consumers grew more interested, so did retailers. Eventually, many retailers were competing to win customers. “The competition drove bet-

ter deals, creating even more interest from consumers,” Wilson said. “It is a virtuous cycle likely to continue.” Online shopping is becoming increasingly popular, not just on Cyber Monday, but throughout Thanksgiving weekend. Online sales grew 17.4 percent on Thanksgiving and 20.7 percent on Black Friday from 2011, according to the study. In fact, 40.7 percent of adults 18 and over said the money they spent on Black Friday was spent online, according to a survey by BigInsight.com, a service that provides consumer data to marketers. Of course, this doesn’t mean that everyone spends Black Friday sitting at their computer and shopping online. Approximately 89 million people shopped in stores and online on Black Friday, according to the National Retail

LISA PALACIO

A CCM student surfs the web looking for deals on Cyber Monday. Federation, a worldwide retail trade association. “I prefer Black Friday because it’s just amusing to watch everyone go crazy,” Tierney said.

“Black Friday will always be a force in the holiday retail season,” Wilson said, “but Cyber Monday will grow on it every year from here on out.”

The ‘Dark Side’ joins Disney MELISSA CHWAZIK Contributor

Mickey Mouse and Darth Vader shook hands Oct. 30 as George Lucas sold Lucasfilm to the Walt Disney Co. in a $4 billion deal. The 68-year-old owns an attraction at Disney Hollywood Studios called “Star Tours;” however, Lucas said he feels that it is time to “pass the torch” to a new generation. “It’s now time for me to pass ‘Star Wars’ on to a new generation of filmmakers,” said Lucas in an NBC News article. Though there are some con-

cerns with “Star Wars” fanatics, Lucas and Disney plan to release Episode 7 in 2015. Disney fans, however, are embracing the new addition and are anxious to see what will come with the recent purchase. Jack Peters, 27, said he feels that there could be some good in the new addition to the Disney franchise, but also some downfalls. Seeing as “Star Wars” isn’t an entirely new concept to Disney parks, most Disney die-hards have already accepted “Star Wars” as part of the ‘Disney family.’ “It’ll be cool to see if they

have new ‘face characters’ walking around the parks,” Peters said. “I’d actually think it’d be cool to see Darth Vader walking around The Magic Kingdom.” However, the 27-year-old also feels that maybe too many changes could hurt the timeless Disney feel. Though the parks are the heart and soul of the infamous Walter E. Disney, they are also a window to his imagination. “To take the ‘Walt Disney’ out of Disney could potentially do damage,” Peters said. “For example I love the old idea of the future in ‘Tomorrowland,’ but if they were to modernize that area

of the Magic Kingdom by adding ‘Star Wars’ I think they would start to lose business. People generally go to Disney for ‘Disney.’” “Star Wars” fans could easily agree with this statement. Though there aren’t any official plans, die-hards on both sides already see a negative. “’Star Wars’ and Disney are two completely different concepts that don’t mix,” said 19-year-old Brian Steel. “One is geared more toward the family-friendly audience, while the other is more violent and adult themed.” There is some fact to this; Disney has been known for the

countless deaths within its films. For example, there is the infamous “Bambi” scene where Bambi’s mother is shot or the scene in “The Lion King” where King Mufasa is murdered by his very own brother, Scar. On top of this, there are already so many games and toys for “Star Wars” that are geared toward a younger audience. However, now that Disney owns Lucasfilm, could this possibly change future “Star Wars” films? “I feel that they’re going to get a lot of flak for Episode 7, and potentially lose both Star Wars and Disney fans,” said Steel.

Letter to the editor

Hello all, The end of November has proven to be profoundly eventful for the Student Government Association. In these past two weeks SGA has discussed a number of new student issues and on November 20th the SGA hosted the last Inter Club-Council meeting of the semester, which had a substantially high attendance of 50 student leaders. For all those that do not know, ICC meetings are aimed at uniting all the clubs here at County College of Morris. There are meetings held every month, throughout the school year and at each meeting a new topic is discussed. For example, this past meeting covered “How to Market Your Club”, which was aimed at helping the clubs at County College of Morris more effectively advertise their events so that all students and members of the CCM community can enjoy and explore all the exciting opportunities being offered on and off campus. The majority of the meeting was an informative presentation on the topic by two members of SGA and the Young Entrepreneurs of America, Nicholas Cruz and Seth Plotnick. There will be many more intriguing and important topics to be discussed at future ICC meetings in the Spring semester. So feel free to stop by next time and represent your club. You are all welcome. With reference to student issues, our main focus surrounds planning two big events for Spring semester: International

week and “Walk-in taco”. In addition, (SGA) members are also fervently following the progress of the Solar Panel Project, for anyone curious about that. Lastly, we are trying our best to get more and more donations for the clothing bins we have placed in parking lots 1, 2, 3, and 6. The bins will remain there for school year and we would appreciate any used or new clothing that can be donated. Yet, despite all the issues that are currently being deliberated, the SGA aims to address all issues students may have in order to make County College of Morris a better place for all of us to be able to have fun and succeed. We would love to hear from you! As of Monday, Dec. 3rd the SGA will have our student issues box placed in areas all around campus so we can all be better informed of student concerns at CCM. If you have any comments or criticisms you would like to share, feel free to drop an anonymous note in a box, and we will bring it up at one of our future meetings We will have one more biweekly update before break, but with finals and the holidays all fast approaching, in case we do not say it later, I along with the other members of the SGA wish you all good luck in your endeavors the end of this semester.

ENTERTAINMENT

Page 4 The Youngtown Edition

FASHION: Student clubs come together for fashion show CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

In another 1990s act, Barkin took the stage again with his girlfriend and lipsynced to the song “Light My Candle” from the movie “Rent.” He had on a black wig and a black skirt, while his girlfriend wore a short, blond wig and baggy jeans. To represent the present day, Wyeroski walked the runway in black pants, sunglasses and a red tie. “It was the easiest decade to relate to,” she said. Songs that represented the present day included “1985” by Bowling for Soup and “Poor Unfortunate Souls” from the

movie “The Little Mermaid.” Gittens ended the show in the “futuristic” era, lip-syncing to the song “E.T.” by Katy Perry. Overall, the show kept the audience laughing and smiling the whole time. “This was the second time I’ve seen it,” said Iesha, an audience member. “I really liked it.” “I was happy with the turnout, but I would’ve liked more people to come,” Elms said. For anyone who didn’t make it to the show, “you missed an amazing time.”

Students dress in drag attire for CCM drag show.

MELISSA DELLACATO

December 5, 2012

FEATURES

The Youngtown Edition Page 5

No more wallets, pay from smartphone at Starbucks CAROL BERMUDEZ ENAMORADO Entertainment editor

The Starbucks application can be found on the top 50 free app list and it allows you to pay for your order by scanning your phone at the register. The application can be found in the iTunes app store from your iPhone or on Google Pay from your Android (2.2 or above). This app allows you to pay from your smartphone, manage your Starbucks card and balance, reload your card and track your stars in “My Rewards” program. Once you scan the barcode you instantly gain a star for the purchase and become eligible for a free drink or food on your birthday. Reaching five stars get you brewed, iced coffee and tea refills for free during your visit at a participating store. Finally, if you collect 30 stars within 12 months you’re gold. Gold means you keep the previous benefits plus a free drink or food for every 12 stars you get. You will also receive a personalized gold card with your name on it along with special offers in the mail. With this application you can explore coffee, beverages, food, and nutritional information. A free pick of the week song is also offered as well as a store locator with directions to the nearest Starbucks. “I have had my application since October 2011,” said Kenny Baldwin, liberal arts major at County College of Morris.

“I’m always on my phone so it’s very convenient for me.” As a daily customer Baldwin said the app is certainly worth the download. He has even received his gold card in the mail and enjoys the discounts plus the free perks it offers. According to Mobile Commerce Daily, Howard Schultz president and CEO of Starbucks said, more than 2 million mobile payment transactions occur every week. Launched in January 2011, this app has allowed for Starbucks to become a leading mobile payment provider. “It’s the number one app used to pay on iTunes” said Melissa, a Starbucks manager at the Denville location on Route 10, who did not want to disclose her last name. “This app allows customers to come in, order, and simply pay on their phone.” She said more than 50 percent of people pay with this app or a Starbucks gift card. The rewards pop up on your phone alerting you but they do expire after 90 days. Schultz wants to thread the equity of the brand and the Starbucks experience to multiple platforms--digital, social, mobile--that encompass all aspects of customers’ lives according to, www.fastcompany.com. Schultz recognizes the change in consumer behavior as a result of the emergence of mobile relations and mobile payments as well as social and digital media.

New Starbucks app allows customers to scan and go.

Ready for finals? KERI JAMESON Contributor

With only about a week of classes left at County College of Morris, students are grimacing at the looming shadows of finals. Not everyone is a good test-taker, but after the Thanksgiving break, many people will start focusing on studying for finals, be it weeks or only days in advance. Jessica Sanders, 19, a communications major from Parsippany, does not plan to start studying until the week of her finals. “I’m a bad studier, but usually I try to look my notes over several days leading up to an exam,” she said. “I just can’t remember things well, and study guides don’t usually help much.” Likewise, Alexis Rabel, 18, a psychology major from Morristown, does not mix well with exams. “I’m a really bad test-tak-

er,” she said. “I usually cram the night before and the morning of, and sometimes that actually seems to work for me, but for the most part I freak out during an exam.” While some struggle with nipping it in the bud, some students are ready to face their finals with heads held high. Ryan Cox, a 20-year-old early childhood education major from Butler, is one such student. “I’m not really worried about any of my finals,” he said. “The in-class ones are usually easy for me, and for essays or project-type finals, we usually get at least a week to complete them. I don’t study too much, and I usually end up doing fine. I’ve already started reviewing my notes.” Kristen Evans, 18, an early childhood education major from Denville, said she feels she is well-prepared for her exams. “I’m actually really good at studying,” she

said. “I remember a method my high school english teacher told us about, which basically involves writing down key words that make you remember the big ideas, and it’s always worked for me. I slip up sometimes, but for the most part I’m okay with exams, so finals don’t scare me too much.” There is no designated way to study for an exam, however, most students seem to believe that studying and reviewing notes is certainly better than relying on initial memory. “I don’t think there’s any golden method that works for everyone,” Sanders said. “It’s just whatever works for you.” Cox had similar thoughts. “Everyone has their own style,” he said. “I think that as long as you’re not lazy and you actually put some effort into it, studying can be simple.”

RICKI SANCHEZ

SGA and you! Student Government Association meets weekly to discuss issues that represent the CCM student. The meetings consist of thoughts that are presented before every member. The goal is simple, to make school life better. Committees form to discuss issues that affect students and faculty. From safety to diversity, many aspects of the college are represented in order to achieve a better college experience. Sounds boring? Not at all. Work comes before play, and once the other issues are addressed, action takes place. This is where SGA reaches out to students by hosting events, bake sales, or new activities. SGA is currently working with a few key points. The biweekly poll set up by the vice president aims to reach out to students through blackboard and get answers to questions. The first poll asks students how they feel about a blackboard application for their smart devices. Something in the works are Student Issues Boxes. These are placed around the school in order to encourage everyone to bring up issues that affect us all. From these boxes, issues will be collected and discussed at a senate meeting where solutions will form to address each matter. Another exciting thing is International Week. A week devoted to culture, nationalities, and pride. A few of the clubs will be assigned a day where they display events representing that culture. Though the semester is coming to a close, SGA is still working very hard to make the CCM experience better. Submitted: Carlos Herrera

Page 6 The Youngtown Edition

December 5, 2012

NEWS

The Youngtown Edition Page 7

Will Puerto Rico make 51 states?

KERI JAMESON Contributor

On Tuesday, Nov. 6, a non-binding referendum regarding the current status of Puerto Rico resulted with the majority of the people seeking to alter their present condition and become the 51st state. For some students at the County College of Morris, news of this event has stayed quiet on campus, while others have known about the possible change for years. Danielle Florio, 18, a communications major from Parsippany, was already aware of the possible changes to the states due to several Puerto Rican friends. “I heard about it years ago,” she said. “I don’t see

how it’s going to be a problem. It could increase resources.” However, Florio said she has doubts about whether the plan will actually go through. “I don’t think some Puerto Ricans will be too happy,” she said. “They pride themselves for being an independent nation.” The two-part referendum resulted in 46 percent of Puerto Rico’s people striving to keep the current status, and 54 percent seeking to change the island’s relationship with the United States. Sixty-one percent also voted in favor of statehood. Congress may debate the referendum; however, the results may have been clear enough for President Barack Obama.

Some students, however, were left in the dark about the issue. Christopher Magi, 19, an electronics and engineering major from Roxbury, had not heard of the possible new state. “I’m usually into politics, but I never heard about it,” he said. Magi also had mixed viewpoints about how the potential acceptance of Puerto Rico into the States might influence Americans. “Our generation might be more accepting, but I feel older generations may be more racist about it,” he said. It is possible that the news and destruction of Hurricane Sandy on Oct. 29 overshadowed much information about the referendum for students. The term “51st State” could be regard-

ed in either a positive or negative manner; it could refer to a strong, supportive allegiance between two nations, or to an area that is being too heavily influenced by American control. Opinions about both Puerto Ricans’ and Americans’ reactions to the change could be supportive or defiant. Kayla McDonald, 18, a social sciences and humanities major from Flanders, has doubts about the matter. “I’m not sure what this could mean,” she said. “Unless Puerto Rico wants to join us...I thought America was done fighting for territory. It could be advantageous, but I don’t think they can fit another star on the flag.”

Famous Twinkies depart convenience stores LISA PALACIO Staff writer

On Nov. 16, Hostess Brands, Inc. the makers of Twinkies, Ding Dongs, Wonder Bread and other foods, announced that it would be closing its business, leading nostalgic customers in New Jersey to stock up on the brand’s treats. “I remember my mom would always pack Twinkies in my lunchbox,” said Frank Maurinelli, a 49–year-old Madison resi-

dent. “It’s sad to see a memorable snack disappear.” Maurinelli walked around the Stop and Shop supermarket in Madison and looked to see if any Hostess Brand treats were still in stock but said he was shocked to see how short the stock was. “It’s interesting how a snack can impact its customers and the economy,” Maurinelli said. “Not only will people not have access to [the snacks], but I bet many people will lose their jobs.”

Hostess Brands, which had been battling a continuous nationwide worker strike and was in declining financial conditions, decided to liquidate the entire company, sell all assets, and file for bankruptcy. According to a Hostess Brands press release from Nov. 14, more than 18,000 jobs will be lost with the company’s closure. “I can’t say I’m not going to miss a family favorite snack,” said Ann Zimmer, a 44-year-old

mother of two from Chatham. “It’s just sad to see that the company couldn’t work out its issues.” Zimmer said she is lucky to have learned a homemade recipe of the famous ‘Twinkies’ from her mother. “I’m glad I know how to make a similar version of the Twinkie at home,” Zimmer said. “I’m lucky to still be able to share a part of my childhood with my children and with myself.”

“Not only will people not have access to [the snacks], but I bet many people will lose their jobs.” Frank Maurinelli

Page 8 The Youngtown Edition

SPORTS

December 5, 2012

Update on the NHL lockout of the 2012-2013 season KRISTY FLANNERY Managing editor

By the beginning of December hockey fans around North America should be hearing their team’s goal song and the puck hitting the ice. Instead, day after day fans continually hear no progress from the CBA talks today. Approaching the halfway point of the NHL lockout it seems to be a battle between NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman and executve director of the NHL player association Don Fehr. Because the NHL is shutting out its players, Bettman estimates a loss of $18-20 million dollars a day, according to a tweet from Tom Gulitti of The Record. However, both sides are at a standstill 80 days into the lockout. Proposals were made from each side, but the owners and players are not willing to give up the amount needed to reach a deal. The League proposed a 50/50 split for 82 games back in October. Their proposal included length of contracts, free agency, and salary arbitration. Free agency would be at 28-years-old and eight years of playing. The NHPLA declined the proposal since existing contracts would be deferred over the length of the new CBA. Additionally, players only want a five-year deal saying five years from now there will be too many new players and it won’t pertain to some existing players. After the initial NHL proposal the players’ association countered and submitted four proposals. According to Mathieu

Dandenault, a retired hockey player, all included 50-50 clauses on revenue sharing. Bill Daly, deputy commissioner and chief legal officer of the National Hockey League, said the cancellation of the NHL preseason cost the league $100 million dollars. Shutting out the 2012-2013 season is not just affecting the salary of its players. Due to the lockout all NHL employees are working a four-day week and losing 20 percent of their weekly pay. On Oct. 4, Daly commented on the commitment the NHL had to play an 82 game season: “We remain committed to doing everything in our power to forge an agreement that is fair to the players, fair to the teams, and good for our fans,” said Daly. “This is not about winning a negotiation.” Following Daly’s comment Fehr counteracted by saying, “If the owners truly cared about the game and the fans, they would lift the lockout and allow the season to begin on time while negotiations continued.” The players came together on Oct. 6 with a message expressing they are united, and the team owners are not. Reiterating Bettman is the antagonist and not to criticize the owners. The players want a fair deal. By Oct. 10 the NHL lost $240 million dollars due to the lockout of the season. Some of the league’s biggest names went to Europe and Russia to play. Claude Giroux and Danny Briere from the Philadelphia Flyers signed in Germany while the

Avalanche’s rookie of the year, Gabriel Landeskog, signed a deal in Sweden. Local NHL players from the New York Rangers and New Jersey Devils have signed in various locations. Devil’s players AntonVolchenkov and Ilya Kovalchuk have signed in Russia. New Ranger Rick Nash has signed in the Swiss National League. For a brief two weeks Devil’s rightwinger David Clarkson played in Austria. After Hurricane Sandy left destruction up and down the east coast locked out players wanted to help. Philadelphia Flyer’s Scott Hartnell helped organize Operation Hat Trick, a charity hockey game to raise money for the American Red Cross, the Empire State Sandy Relief Fund, and others. David Clarkson, Marc Staal, Brian Boyle, Andy Greene, and Wayne Simmonds are some of the local players who participated. Other NHL all-stars included Steven Stamkos, Bobby Ryan, and Corey Perry. Held at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City 11,000 hockey fans filled the arena to watch some of the NHL’s best play. Scott Hartnell and Brad Richards of the Rangers captained the two teams. It was a classic Marty Brodeur and Lundqvist goaltending duel. Henrik Lundqvist led his team to victory showing he hasn’t missed a beat since last year’s playoff run. Team Richards beat Team Hart\nell by a score of 106. Operation Hat Trick raised over $500,000 dollars. Krys Barch, a newly signed Devil took to Twitter for a de-

Prudential Center, Newark, N.J. tailed rant about the NHL lockout and the need to reach an agreement. “The lockout is a procedure to take from the players to pay for the NHL mistakes. Let’s not allow the NHL to make any more mistakes. Let the league and the players come together to fix the mistakes that have been made and make sure none are made in the future,” said Barch. “Let’s make a deal where the owners, players, and fans can benefit from. We can be sitting around in beautiful Canadian falls around a fire playing and watching the game we love. Here’s to the truth and our next conversation.” Other players took to the social media website to share their frustrations and anger with Betmann and the NHL. Minnesota Wild forward Jason Zucker tweets “This whole lockout thing is really making me mad! How does Bettman now

KRISTY FLANNERY

have three lockouts under his name?” Most NHL players feel they need to apologize to their loyal fans. Brian McGrattan of the Nashville Predators and Chris Butler, a defenseman from the Calgary Flames, use Twitter to get their messages out. “The most important part of our game is our fans who come to watch the players play, not a bunch of suits that sit around and decide our fate,” tweeted McGrattan. San Jose Sharks forward Logan Couture added, “sorry to the fans and everyone who is hurt by this. It is not our choice.” The fate of this year’s hockey season is still up in the air. As the days pass the chances of a season are slowly diminishing. The fans only hope is when an agreement is reached it will stay in affect for future years. Players and fans can only hope this is the last lockout under Bettman.

The Tommy Awards, rewarding the NFL’s finest THOMAS SKIDMORE Online manager

As the National Football League season passes the midway mark, NFL experts and fans alike vote and discuss what players, teams and coaches deserve to be rewarded for their accomplishments. At the end of the season, they will be given true NFL awards, but at this time, they will be awarded by me. The first Tommie Award is the Offensive Most Valuable Player Award. A CBS poll has the winner being Matt Ryan (44 percent), quarterback of the Atlanta Falcons, with Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (28 percent) in a close second. However, I believe this award should go to rookie sensation Andrew Luck, quarterback of the Indianapolis Colts. “Luck is unbelievable,” said Adrian Vasquez, a college student from Dover. “Of course there’s room for improvement, but the Colts couldn’t be doing it without him.” Luck’s Colts were a miserable 2-14 last year, and they selected Luck with the first pick in the 2012 NFL Draft. Luck has been incredible in his rookie season, and has thrown for 3,205 yards with a completion percentage of 56.8 and a quarterback rating of 76.7. His statistics also show that

he improves throughout the game continue to fake him out, Asomu- centage of 63.6. Wilson also has and is clutch in red zone situa- gha is one of the league’s big- no interceptions in the first quartions. Luck transformed the Colts gest disappointments of the year. ter and just one in the fourth quarfrom the worst team in the league The next Tommie Award ter. He also has four touchdowns to a sure playoff team in his rook- goes to Russell Wilson of the Se- in the fourth quarter when withie year, proving how valuable he attle Seahawks and that award is in one score. He is clutch, he is is to the team. for Most Surprising Player. Wil- young, and he is sure to improve. The next award is the Defen- son has 17 touchdowns compared The final Tommie Award sive MVP Award, which goes to to just eight interceptions and an goes to Sean Payton, former head J.J. Watt of the Houston Texans. above-average 93.9 quarterback coach of the New Orleans Saints. In just his second season, Watt rating, while only being drafted The Best Coach Award goes to has an astounding the coach who has the 14.5 sacks, 54 tacklargest impact on his les, two fumble reteam. It would be easy “Luck is unbelievable... Of course coveries, 13 passes to give the award to defended, and 11 there’s room for improvement, but the Atlanta Falcons head stuffs. The Texans coach Mike Smith, San defense remains Colts couldn’t be doing it without him.” Francisco 49ers head No. 1 in the league, coach Jim Harbaugh, Adrian Vasquez which is mostly due Houston Texans head to Watt’s breakout coach Gary Kubiak, or season. Indianapolis Colts head The Tommie coach Chuck Pagano. Award for Most Disappointing in third round this past year. Of course, they are all well-dePlayer goes to Nnamdi Asomu“The kid has talent,” said serving for various reasons. Howgha, cornerback for the Philadel- Lauren Meehan, a college student ever, Payton deserves this award phia Eagles. With just one inter- from Knowlton. “I don’t know the most. After the bounty scanception and only 32 tackles, he is where he came from or how dal, he was suspended for the enon pace for one of the worst years he does it, but he’s got talent.” tire NFL season and a later appeal in his career. It is not just about Though he has only thrown was denied by NFL Commishis pitiful statistics, however. Ac- for 2,051 yards, his incredible sioner, Roger Goodell. His concording to NFL experts, he has season as a rookie is a surprise tract extension was also voided become more of a liability at his to many. The University of Wis- by the league soon thereafter. His position than a shutdown corner. consin alum has six games with- head coaching record in the reguHis name used to be mentioned out an interception and just two lar season is 62-34 and 5-3 in the with the league’s top corners, games without a touchdown. He postseason, including winning but as the Eagles continue to get has thrown for at least two touch- Super Bowl XLIV in 2009. In his stopped on, quarterbacks continue downs in all but five of the eleven years with the Saints, the team to throw past him, and receivers games and has a completion per- has finished first in their division

three out of six times, including two between 2009 and 2011. “It’s terrible what has happened to the Saints,” said Erica Bee, a college student from Montclair. “I thought they were good and I find out that they have a belowaverage record. Coaching has to have something to do with it.” Currently, the Saints have an unusual record of 5-6, after starting 0-4. Two of their wins are against quality teams, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Atlanta Falcons, but their players are not playing to their potential. With a new head coach filling in for the former coach of the year, the Saints prove the effect a coach can have on a franchise. It may seem unreasonable to give an award to a player who never plays or in this case a coach who never coaches, but the proof is all there. With little to no chance of making the playoffs just a couple years after a Super Bowl run and offensive explosions by quarterback Drew Brees, it is impossible to disagree with the fact that Sean Payton held this Saints squad together. With him gone, they have nothing but Brees, who also is not putting up his best numbers. This should explain why the Tommie Award for the best coach in the league goes to Sean Payton. All statistics are credited to the official website of the NFL and are current as of Nov. 27.