Breaking news, blogs and more at TCNJSignal.net. Vol. XLIV, No. 9
March 30, 2016
Serving The College of New Jersey community since 1885
Journalism leaves English Department
Students travel around the Stud
By Emily Solinski Correspondent Change is hitting the Journalism and Professional Writing Program (JPW) at the College for the upcoming Fall 2016 semester. Looking at better access to labs, digital resources and new high-definition cameras in the television studio, journalism students are intended to reap major benefits in the future as the program is now recognized as an independent major, according to a TCNJ Today article from Tuesday, March 15. “The big change is our status,” Associate Professor of English and Coordinator of the JPW program Donna Shaw said in an email interview. “Now we’ll be a freestanding major, which gives us a lot of opportunities.” Previously, JPW had been an interdisciplinary major within the English Department. Now recognized as “freestanding,” the major can move from the School of Humanities and Social Sciences to the School of Arts and Communication. Even with this shift between schools, the JPW program will work in conjunction with the School of Arts and Communication and English Department so students can remain eligible for the English honor society, Sigma Tau Delta, and be able to also join the communications honor society of Lambda Pi Eta, according to an email sent to JPW students on Saturday, March 12 from Shaw. see JOURNALISM page 3
Heiner Fallas / Photo Assistant
Epcot gives students the opportunity to learn about different cultures. By Kelly Corbett Staff Writer
In between bites of falafel, perogies and churros, students took a trip around the world — or rather, just around the Brower Student Center — as Student Government’s Center for Equity and Diversity hosted TCNJ Epcot on Thursday, March 24. Aimed at helping the campus expand its cultural knowledge, promote diversity and launch students into a deeper conversation about cultural differences, the event featured 20 different cultures. A rainbow of streamers and national flags draped from the Atrium’s ceiling as students swarmed to see the main spectacle of the night — the performers. Whether they were recording a Snapchat video or cheering on their friends, all eyes were focused
on the rhythmic jives of the nine groups that performed. Sigma Lambda Beta got down on the dance floor to “Down in the DM,” Union Latino’s dance group, Ritmo Latino, treated the audience to some suave partner footwork and the TCNJ Association of Students for Africa Dance Team incorporated some booty shaking and backflip action into its routine. Other festivities of the night included a mechanical bull challenging students to hold on, sumo wrestling matches, henna tattoos and a photo booth where students could pick from a variety of landmark backgrounds, such as the Eiffel Tower or the Great Pyramid of Giza. The student center was lined with tables informing students of the various cultures represented that night. Sigma Lambda Gamma supported breast cancer awareness
by having students put their beer pong skills to the test, during which students aimed for bras instead of red solo cups, to learn a fact about breast cancer. At Sigma Lambda Beta’s table, students could design their own masks, adding colors and symbols representative of their culture. The Global Minds, which promotes diversity and helps international students integrate into the College campus, had a table that invited students to mark where they are from on a world map and any locations that they have visited. Senior communication studies major and Ritmo Latino performer Orlando Salas said that events like TCNJ Epcot are important because of the lack of diversity on campus. “As a minority, I do feel very isolated from the student body here on campus, but with events like Epcot, we were able to educate the student body about the different cultures that are underrepresented on campus,” Salas said. He also said he believes cultural events are significant in the betterment of the campus community. Created last year, this event was made with the expectation that it would become a TCNJ Legacy Event, Student Government’s Vice President for Equity and Diversity Priscilla Nuñez said. She said the committee wanted “a fun event to educate the TCNJ community at large about different cultures.” This year’s event took about four months to prepare, as the committee had to work around all the student center renovation obstacles. “The logistics always become problematic with contracts and how many things are time sensitive, but the Student Finance Board student activities and student center staff really worked together with me to make TCNJ Epcot a success,” she said.
Feminist alumnae give advice for life post-college
Heiner Fallas / Photo Assistant
Panelists share their experiences as feminists. By Tom Ballard Opinions Editor The future may seem uncertain for women’s and gender studies (WGS) students at the College, but an alumnae panel called “Designing Feminist Futures: College and
INDEX:
Beyond” on Wednesday, March 23, in the Library Auditorium aimed to change that by discussing feminism outside of the College. The panelists included ’03 graduate and Pace University Assistant Professor of WGS Emily Bent, ’01 graduate and Regional
Nation & World / Page 5
Follow us at... The Signal @tcnjsignal
Editorial / Page 6
Manager of Law School Engagement with Bloomberg Law Noelle Petruzelli-Marino and ’01 graduate Jackie DeVore, who worked as an assistant district attorney in Bronx, N.Y., where she prosecuted sex crimes and crimes against children. The panelists opened the event by discussing how they began to identify themselves as feminists. Most of the panelists said that it was not until college that they were able to identify themselves as feminists. “I grew up in a very conservative area and I was always angry and didn’t quite know why,” Bent said. “I didn’t have the right language to call myself a feminist because that really wasn’t a term that people used, so I think when I started to identify as a feminist Opinions / Page 7
was in college.” Bent said that her years as a teenager gave her the experience to question the difference between herself and male students. “There were lots of kinds of moments that added to my teenage angst about why am I really bothered by sexist practices in my high school or isn’t it really strange that girl dress codes are really different from a boy’s... Teachers were always calling home to talk to my parents about the weird questions that I would ask in class,” Bent said. “But I think that it was always something that I would have identified with, but not something that I would have attached that word to.” DeVore said that the materials that she had learned from the WGS program at the College have
Features / Page 12
guided her in life since graduating. “(My vision of being a feminist) was always sort of there but never really explicit (until college),” DeVore said. “That sort of revelation (my) sophomore year has legitimately carried me through the past nearly 20 years of my professional development — like that was the foundational aspect of my understanding of feminism, how I adopted feminism and how I started to bring it out in my own life and use it in various and practical ways.” According to the panel, society promotes an ideal image on how each genders are meant to act and should be portrayed. “Seeing from the time you are pregnant, the gendered stuff see WGS page 3
Arts & Entertainment / Page 15
Sports / Page 24
Art lecture Dyslexic artist turns science into art
Reading Series Students showcase creative writing
Baseball Lions win eight games in a row
See Features page 12
See A&E page 15
See Sports page 24
page 2 The Signal March 30, 2016
SG lawyers up, gives students legal council option By Alyssa Sanford Web Editor Two clubs, which recently received formal recognition, proposed upcoming plans during the Wednesday, March 23, general body meeting of Student Government (SG). First, the TCNJ Tap Ensemble, which earned unanimous approval from the Governmental Affairs (GA) committee on Sunday, Feb. 28, fielded questions from the general body about the club. Club representatives said that they are “dedicated to teaching both novice and expert tap dancers and preserving this classical art form.” Beginner tap dancers do not need tap shoes to dance and can learn modified versions of advanced choreography if they wish to participate in performances, representatives said. TCNJ Tap Ensemble executive board members said there are 13 charter members, with 10 freshmen and three sophomores, which assures them that the club’s longevity will not be a problem in the near future. According to the club’s official proposal, TCNJ Tap Ensemble needs formal recognition from SG in order to book practice space and to hold performances in Kendall Hall’s Black Box Theater. It would also need Student Finance Board (SFB) funding for costumes and stage design. Because the executive board members are all experienced tap dancers, they are comfortable teaching novice tappers and assured the general body that teaching experience is not necessary to help fellow students learn tap, members said. They also said that TCNJ Synergy’s advisor, faculty member Kevin Potucek, will also serve as TCNJ Tap Ensemble’s adviser. TCNJ Tap Ensemble, unlike TCNJ Synergy, is “a completely tap-based group,” executive board members explained in response to a question about the differences between the two dance groups. TCNJ Synergy blends different styles of dance in its routines and holds auditions for experienced dancers, whereas TCNJ Tap Ensemble invites dancers of all levels to join and only teaches tap routines, members said. Next, the TCNJ Physician’s Assistant
Club presented to the general body. It gained approval from GA on Sunday, March 6. According to the official proposal, TCNJ Physician’s Assistant Club “helps students gain knowledge on necessary requirements and prerequisites to apply to physician’s assistant (PA) school.” The proposal also outlined events that the club is planning to hold, such as an alumni panel, as well as a program with local hospitals that would help prospective students meet graduate school requirements. Formal recognition from SG will allow the club to book event space and use an official College email account. A representative for the club also expressed interest in getting SFB funding for trips to PA school open houses. The general body approved both clubs without prior debate before transitioning into announcements from cabinet members. Vice President of Administration and Finance Tyler Holzer then unveiled his detailed plans for proposed changes to the Loop Bus service. According to the plans, there would be two buses that run within 30 minutes of each other, beginning at 5 p.m. and 5:30 p.m., respectively. There would be different options for loops on specific days of the week. For instance, one option would be an evening on which both buses run between the College, Hamilton Train Station, AMC movie theatre and Quaker Bridge Mall all night long. On another day, the buses might run from the College to the Hamilton Train Station and then return to the College to loop between the College, Princeton, Market Fair, Nassau Park Pavilion and the Mercer Mall, Holzer said. Most of the options outlined had Princeton or AMC movie theatre as the last pickup location because people tend to stay in Princeton or at the movies until 10 p.m. or 11 p.m. Holzer also took suggestions for a possible mobile app on Android and iOS devices. As the plans stand now, Holzer believes that the app will feature a map of the Loop Bus route and a screen on which students can input their start and end locations and the day of the week so that their desired route pops up on the map. A second tab would display the Loop Bus schedule in full and a third tab would
TCNJ Tap Ensemble answers questions from SG. provide information on each location. Executive Vice President Javier Nicasio then announced an upcoming organizational retreat on Wednesday, April 13, following adviser Elizabeth Bapasola’s verbal confirmation on Wednesday, March 9, that the College is seeking alternatives to its Passport to Programming, the annual day-long session in September where all club and organization representatives gather to learn the logistics of planning events on campus. “We’re hoping this can replace Passport in the future,” Nicasio said. Liaisons from student organizations on campus will convene in Roscoe West Hall so that “student organization leaders can network with one another, build connections and build co-sponsorship,” Nicasio said. Liaisons will attend a meeting run by SG President Casey Dowling and then regroup into sessions with cabinet members, head senators and representatives from organizations within each school at the College, Nicasio explained. Vice President of Governmental Affairs Ceili Boles announced that starting on Friday, April 1, GA will start a voter registration initiative in Travers Hall, in which the floor that can prove it has the highest number of registered voters will win a pizza party. Boles added that because GA can only obtain 200 voter registration forms at a time, it would be too difficult to run the initiative in both of the freshman towers. Next, student Trustee Kevin Kim announced that SG has secured a lawyer to represent all students and student organizations for a maximum of $2,000. The lawyer was
Kim Iannarone / Photo Editor
hired for 20 hours, meaning that she will be paid $100 per hour, Kim said. Hiring a lawyer has been talked over by SG for some time, ensuring that student voices are heard. “She can’t represent you in a court case (or offer legal advice in academic integrity cases, or) for anything through the school,” Kim explained, but the lawyer could represent students having disputes with landlords or student organizations that wish to move their bank accounts off campus. Kim said that there will be a Google Form to fill out in order to get legal representation. The junior class council thanked all volunteers and attendees of “TCNJ’s Got Talent,” which took place in Kendall Hall on Wednesday, March 9. “It was one of the best talent shows that we’ve ever had,” Vice President for Operations Levi Klinger-Christensen said. “The talent there was phenomenal.” Klinger-Christiansen also mentioned that the junior class is hoping to host a bus trip to Colonial Bowling or a similar venue before the end of the semester. Sophomore class president Kelsey Capestro announced that SFB fully funded Spring Back, which will be held on Saturday, April 16, on the lawn in front of Travers and Wolfe halls. Capestro said there will be a gladiator joust, obstacle course, photo booth, foosball table and inflatable basketball hoops among other things at the event. Lastly, the freshman class council’s New York City Bus Trip was fully funded by SFB for Saturday, April 9, according to President Carly Mauro.
Student blames vomiting on car sickness, not alcohol By Ellie Schuckman News Editor
• At approximately 4:40 p.m. on Tuesday, March 1, officers met a student at Campus Police Headquarters who stated that his wallet was stolen from the Campus Town Fitness Center. The male said that at approximately 4:05 p.m., he placed his wallet into a cubby and then went to the bathroom. He returned at 4:30 p.m. to find the wallet missing, police said. He went to the front desk and asked if it had been turned in, but it had not. The wallet is valued at $400, according to police. • Campus Police were dispatched to the lower level of Wolfe Hall on Wednesday, March 9, on a report of an intoxicated female. At approximately 12:25 a.m., officers met with a Community Adviser (CA) in the lower level of Wolfe Hall. The CA stated that while walking into the back entrance of the building at 12:21 a.m., she observed a student vomiting near the entrance, according to police reports. The CA approached the student to assist her and then called Campus Police because she was concerned about the student’s well-being, police said. Upon arrival, officers asked the student if she was OK and if she could recount the events of the evening. She said she was OK and vomited as a result of car sickness returning from a party, according to police. As she spoke, the officers smelled a strong odor of alcohol emanating from her breath. Police then asked if she had consumed alcohol, to which she said she had two beers and four to five shots of vodka. A summons was issued for underage drinking, according to police.
• At 1:54 a.m. on Thursday, March 10, officers met with a student who stated that her zip-up sweatshirt, which held her student ID and a key, was stolen. She explained that she placed the sweatshirt on the west end of the fence surrounding the track at 1 a.m. She then went for a run around campus on Metzger Drive, police said. At 1:30 a.m., she returned to the track and found the sweatshirt missing. She had her student ID deactivated at Police Headquarters. Officers searched the area with negative results. The missing items are valued at $22, according to police.
• On Friday, March 11, a student called Campus Police to report harassment. He stated that a female from California chatted with him over a video connection and she then threatened to post the video onto YouTube unless he sent her $2,000, according to police. Officers identified this as a common internet scam. The student reported the video as inappropriate to YouTube, police said. Officers searched YouTube, but could not find the video. A search from his Facebook account indicated that she blocked his account once she was aware that he reported the incident to police. The student was advised that if anything else occurs or changes, he should notify Campus Police. • Campus Police were dispatched to the rear of Townhouses South at 9:43 p.m. on Friday, March 11, regarding a person suspected of smoking marijuana. Upon arrival, a security officer pointed out a male that was standing behind the Townhouses South complex. The
officer asked the male, “Where did you put the joint,” according to police. The male then pulled out what appeared to be a burnt marijuana cigarette out of his right pocket, police said. The cigarette was confiscated and he was asked for identification, according to reports. The male was arrested and transported to Campus Police Headquarters for processing. He was issued a summons to appear before the court and was released at 11:10 p.m., according to police.
• On Monday, March 21, at 11:25 a.m., a fire alarm was activated from the Chemistry Department. The officer responding to the scene was alerted by a student that there was a fire in the third floor women’s bathroom, police said. The officer proceeded to the third floor bathroom and confirmed that there was an activated trash fire, according to reports. The officer utilized a fire extinguisher from a nearby room, putting out the fire. The officer then informed dispatch of the smoke still present in the bathroom, according to police. At 11:55 a.m., the New Jersey Fire Marshal was notified of the incident. The bathroom was secured until the fire inspector investigated the room, police said. The building was reoccupied and the activated alarm was reset, according to police. At 1:30 p.m., Building Services was contacted and informed to clean the bathroom. The fire is currently under investigation, according to police. Anyone with information can contact Campus Police at 609-771-2345.
March 30, 2016 The Signal page 3
Journalism / Freestanding major to move schools this fall
SFB approves funds for Spring Back
continued from page 1 The JPW program is not facing changes in curriculum, but in the additional enhancements available resulting from this shift between schools. “The School of Arts and Communication has a strong emphasis on helping students develop into strong, analytical thinkers with a strong background in communication skills for future careers in digital and traditional media,” sophomore communication studies major and Head Senator for the School of Arts and Communication Lindsay Thomas said. “Journalism is rapidly evolving and it is time to embrace a digital first mantra, where one can see a shift from paper to electronic forms of media.” With JPW faculty offices moving to the Art and Interactive Multimedia Building, access to these crucially-needed digital resources will become more readily available to journalism students in the coming years. “It’s an exciting time to be involved in the journalism and writing fields because even as the digital media revolution has upended the business models for news, it also has given us new tools and opportunities to reach the audience,” Shaw said. While the JPW program has been available at the College for more than 30 years, this new position as a freestanding major will create more visibility for the program both on and off campus, according to Shaw. “We definitely see this as a growth opportunity,” Shaw said.
Kim Iannarone / Photo Editor
TCNJ Taiko brings up Mystique of the East to the SFB. By Roderick Macioch News Assistant
During its weekly meeting on Wednesday, March 23, the Student Finance Board (SFB) granted funding for a variety of upcoming events, both on and off campus. The first student organization to present a proposal was the College Union Board (CUB), which presented its plan for The Rollin’ Latenighter. According to the request form CUB presented, this event will bring a “’70s atmosphere to campus” and give students a chance to “enjoy a rink, arcade games, tie-dye shirts, a light-up disco floor with a DJ (disc jockey) and more.” The board voted to fully fund the event in the amount of $16,536, to cover all expenses. The event is scheduled for 8 p.m. on Thursday, April 14, in the Decker Social Space. Representatives of TCNJ Taiko entered to propose their plan for Mystique of the East, after their request was tabled in a previous meeting. Mystique of the East, co-sponsored by several of the College’s Asian cultural clubs, is “an annual show that features cultural performances with origins from various Asian countries, including China, India, the Philippines, Korea and Japan. Specifically, TCNJ Taiko will be performing two
pieces in the art of Japanese kumi-daiko, or ensemble drumming,” according to TCNJ Taiko’s request form. The board unanimously voted to fully fund the event in the amount of $406, most of which covers the price of costumes. The event will take place on Saturday, April 23, in Kendall Hall. Doors will open at 7 p.m. and the show starts at 8 p.m. The Black Student Union (BSU) then proposed its “Rise of an Empire Fashion Show,” co-sponsored by the Student Film Union and the Unified Greek Council. The event seeks to “showcase black culture through fashion. (The) theme of Black Excellence will emphasize black consciousness and highlight the dynamic identities that black culture embodies,” according to the request form. When the time came to vote, the requested $6,202.80 was granted, which will cover the cost of the appearance fees of the fashion designers, as well as lighting and decorations. The event is scheduled for Friday, April 15, at 6 p.m. in the Decker Social Space. PRISM then requested funding for an appearance by Tyler Ford, who, according
to the request form, is “regarded as one of the most interesting and vocal queer social media stars of the past year.” The event itself, co-sponsored by Vox: Voices for Planned Parenthood, is intended to “provide an open forum for a discussion on gender and non-binary identities,” according to the request form. Funding in the amount of $2,768.50 was granted, on the condition that PRISM meet with its liaison and attempt to negotiate a lower appearance fee from Ford. The event will take place on Thursday, April 7, in the Library Auditorium at a currently unannounced time. The freshman class council requested funding for its New York City Bus trip. The event is designed to “allow freshmen, who typically do not have transportation, to go off campus for a day. It would allow 110 people to go to New York City,” according to the request form. The board agreed and voted to fully grant the request in the amount of $2,596.12, to cover the cost of two charter buses for the day. The all-day trip event is scheduled to take place on Saturday, April 9. Buses are scheduled to leave the College at 10 a.m. The final order of business was the sophomore class council’s Spring Back. According to the request form, “in the weeks leading up to finals, freshmen and many others get stressed out. Spring Back provides a day of destressing... (with) a small festival (that will have) inflatable courses, rides and other activities.” The board’s motion to fully fund the event was passed, and the requested $5,944.40, which will cover attractions including a mechanical bull, obstacle course and gladiator joust, was granted. The event will be held on Saturday, April 16, at noon on the T/W lawn. *Even though SFB agrees to finance certain events, there is no guarantee these events will take place. The approval only makes the funds available.
WGS / Panel informs students The Signal wins NJPA awards continued from page 1 about the clothes, and how you decorate the room and the toys — it’s disgusting and very hard to combat as a parent,” Bent, a mother of a boy and girl, said. “I think that is (what is motivating me for action) constantly, not just for my daughter, but for my son.” Bent went on to say that society often demands that males have to be “rough and tumble,” while females are seen as having to be “sweet and pretty.” The panel also said that they find that gender inequality still exists in the workplace, especially in the corporate world. “One of the things that is very prevalent is the persistence of obviousness of the male perspective and how the female and feminist perspectives in the workplace — particularly in the corporate world — they’re not fully entrenched in,” Petruzelli-Marino said. “My perspective is not granted the same obviousness as my male counterparts are. I can very clearly tell you that my male counterparts with the same title and less experience makes substantially more than I do and the only reason I know that is because my female boss was transparent with her staff, which again, is not something that is standard in the corporate world.” The panel advised students to be optimistic and continue to fight for gender equality, but also noted that they may not always be faced with support, even from groups that they should receive support from. “I was hired at (Pace) the same time as
someone else who was a man in my department and he was (making more money) than I was by about $5,000,” Bent said. “(Higher educational institutions) are supposed to be places that are safe and supportive, (but) I am often times fighting… So by having to explain to male faculty members why you don’t get to be held at a different standard when I am also junior faculty and (can) easily (be) fired and shoved out the door is really hard (to explain) because I think that I am a very outspoken person.” When asked what was the best way for WGS students to overcome the challenges of seeking employment, the panel told those in attendance to try to set themselves apart from the other applicants for the position. “Just highlight… the ways you have been involved that makes you look different from somebody else,” DeVore said. “(Show) how those experiences that you had are connecting you to the job that you want.” The panel was co-moderated by Tabiya Ahmed, a senior sociology major, and Ryan Eldridge, a junior political science and WGS double major. “(The panel) was part of women’s history month, so (we just wanted to see) what undergrads (at the College learned) from their women’s and gender studies education and how they applied it in the real world,” Ahmed said. “I think that the people who came… are (greatly) benefiting from the panel and the information that was discussed.”
Breaking news, blogs and more at TCNJSignal.net.
Vol. XLIV, No. 2
February 3, 2016
Serving The College of New Jersey community since 1885
Waka Flocka ignites crowd at Welcome Back Concert
Kimberly Ilkowski / Arts & Entertainment Editor
Waka Flocka takes the stage in Kendall Hall, jamming out to old classics such as ‘No Hands.’
Kid, showcased his new knack for incorporating electronic elements in his music. Since that collaboration, Waka Flocka has dropped two more mixtapes — “Salute Me Or Shoot Me 5” in April and “Flockaveli 1.5” in November. “I feel like mixtapes are albums,” Waka Flocka told The Signal. “At the end of the day, an album... just gets more technical because you gotta go by corporate standards. You gotta prepare for this day, two months down the line, and maybe the music don’t sound the same in two months. So that’s why, in my opinion, people prefer mixtapes — because it’s right then and there. It’s the feeling.” Waka Flocka also said he enjoys that mixtapes allow him to collaborate more often with other artists, such as his 2012 collaboration with Machine Gun Kelly. The brainchild of that pairing was the fierce track “Wild Boy.” During that particular song, Waka Flocka jumped off stage to sing, weaving his way up and down the aisles of Kendall Hall for a more intimate performance. tcnjsignal.net He followed that stunt up with 2010’s “Hard in da Paint” from his first studio album, “Flockaveli.” The track arguably put him on the map and earned him air time on big-name radio stations across the country. Fans anticipated “Flockaveli 2” to drop in 2013, but when it didn’t, they took to Twitter to demand its release.
NJPA awards The Signal with third place in general excellence.
By Sydney Shaw Managing Editor
To cap off the first week of the semester, the College was treated to an explosive performance by the “Turn Up God” at the College Union Board’s Welcome Back Concert on Saturday, Jan. 30. Rapper Waka Flocka Flame took the stage in Kendall Hall, commanding the audience with
his lyrical finesse, effortless dance moves and charismatic smile. It was appropriate that Waka Flocka opened the night with “Wild Out,” a Borgore track from 2013 that highlights the rapper’s beginnings with electronic dance music. “When I learned electronic music, I wasn’t in America. I was in Europe for… four months listening to, like, deep house,
dirty house, Dutch style… that’s how I learned it,” Waka Flocka told The Signal in a pre-show interview. “When I got to America… America was liking the shit Europe was liking five years ago.” Waka Flocka returned to the U.S. with a new style of music that he learned to blend with the rap technique for which he had become notorious. His first mixtape of 2015, “The Turn Up Godz Tour” with DJ Whoo
The New Jersey Press Association (NJPA) awarded The Signal with four awards for this year’s collegiate newspaper contest. On Monday, March 21, the NJPA announced the winners of its annual contest thatseerecognizes FLAME page 14 two-year and four-year college newspapers in 14 categories. The Signal was awarded third place in the general excellence category for its Wednesday, Feb. 3, and 2, issues. Collegiate Recovery Snowstorm effects onWednesday, campusDec.explored 2016 semester just last week According to the NJPA’s contest guidelines, to rank the newspapers forSpring general excellence, came Winter Storm Jonas, thus raising Community marks the question — how does our campus the judges took “an overlook at the coverage, writing quality, copy editing,handle style use and layout these monster snowstorms? According to Dave Muha, spokesfirst full semester in the newspaper… and took local appeal, effectiveness and readability intomanaccount.” for the College, the school deBy Chelsea LoCascio cided to delay the start of classes as Three editors were also granted individual awards. Managing Editor Sydney News Editor conditionsShaw proved toowon difficult first for students to return to campus as originally inThethe artsRecovery & entertainment Extension Collegiate Community started at category for her show reviews of River Cityscheduled on Sunday, and Jan. 24. The the College last semester with the intention of help“We are concerned about everyone’s Decemberists, Artsand&sub-Entertainment Editor Kimberly Ilkowski and Opinions Editor Tom safety when there’s severe weather,” ing students who struggle with with addiction stance abuse as well as staying on the path to recovMuha said. “But we’re also concerned ery. In an environment filling weekends about delivering a quality Ballard both where winning thirdwithplace. Ballard placed third in opinion writing for his pieces oneducation Newfor alcohol and drugs might be common for some, the our students.” Before receiving an emailcatfrom need for the program grows and as students’ ideas of fun Jersey casinos standardized test scores, while Ilkowski won third in the photography often turn into destructive dependencies. Muha on Saturday, Jan. 23, that alertCommunity Recovery Supervisor Christopher ed students that classes would not start egory for four of her concert photos. Freeman said that in the 2014 National College Health until Tuesday, Jan. 26, many were outraged that students were still expected Assessment survey conducted by the American ColThe contest could include entries from March 1, 2015, through February 29, 2016, and had lege Health Association, 54 percent of college stuto return to campus on Sunday afterdents in the nation had negative consequences associnoon. A post, which has since been submissions from numerous colleges and universities throughout New Jersey, ated with substance abuse. deleted,including was made on thePrincCollege’s College grounds crews work to clear parking lots following snowstorms. Facebook page stating that move-in “We don’t know how severe the negative conseeton, Rutgers Rider universities. quences were,” Freeman and said, but these incidents By Ellie Schuckman cold, bitter weather. Some race to buy would remain as scheduled — stuKim Iannarone / Photo Editor
could be as minor as embarrassing themselves at a party to as major as being arrested. In a Signal article from Wednesday, Sept. 9, see RECOVERY page 2
INDEX:
Nation & World / Page 5
News Editor
While some grin ear-to-ear at the first talk of snowfall for the season, others cringe in anticipation of the
Editorial / Page 7
Opinions / Page 9
carrots to craft snowmen, yet others hustle to buy cases of water while digging out snow shovels stored in the back of garages. For those of us at the College, with the start of the
Arts & Entertainment / Page 14
dents could return starting at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 24, and classes would begin on Monday, Jan. 25.
Features / Page 19
see SNOW page 3 Sports / Page 28
page 4 The Signal March 30, 2016
FALL 2016 REGISTRATION APPOINTMENT PERIOD Initial Registration Period for Undergraduate and Graduate Students
Tuesday, April 5 Through Friday, April 15
Your enrollment appointment reflecting the first time you will be eligible to register for the Fall 2016 semester can be accessed via your PAWS account. To view your scheduled enrollment appointment, visit the Enrollment Appointment section in the PAWS Student Center. Once eligible, students remain eligible throughout the registration period. Undergraduate students who do not register by 11:59pm on Sunday, April 17, will be subject to a late registration fine. Graduate Students have until Friday, July 15: Late Registration Fine Undergraduate: $150 Graduate: $125
The Fall 2016 Schedule of Classes is available on PAWS and can be viewed by using the Search for Classes button. Both Winter 2017 and Summer 2016 registration are also open along with Fall 2016 registration. Check PAWS frequently for any updated winter/summer course offerings and consult with your advisor for appropriate course selections.
Visit the PAWS HELP website for complete information on how to log-in to PAWS, search for classes, browse the Course Catalog, view your Holds, add courses to your Shopping Cart, and register for classes: http://pawshelp.pages.tcnj.edu/
Use the Validate feature directly from your PAWS Shopping Cart to check for potential pre-requisite issues before registration! For more information on the Validate feature, visit: http://pawshelp.pages.tcnj.edu/files/2011/07/validate.pdf
Check PAWS early and frequently for Holds that will prevent you from registering. All Hold Flag information can be viewed under the Holds section in the PAWS Student Center.
Access your Academic Requirements Report on PAWS to view your degree requirements via the Advising Tools link.
Make an appointment to see your advisor to discuss your Academic Requirements Report. Your advisor’s name and email address can be located in your PAWS Student Center.
Double-check call numbers and course sections prior to your registration appointment for schedule changes and periodic updates.
Graduate Students: If you are a non-matriculant who is applying for Fall matriculation, you should not register during this timeframe. If accepted for matriculation, you will be invited to register during the Graduate Orientation summer orientation sessions.
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March 30, 2016 The Signal page 5
Nation & W rld
ISIS claims responsiblity for bombings in Belgium By Catherine Herbert Staff Writer
Last Tuesday, March 15, there were attacks at a metro station and an international airport in Brussels, Belgium, that killed 35 people and left more than 300 wounded, as of Monday, March 28, CNN reported. The attacks started at 8 a.m. at the Brussels Airport. An image released by Belgian authorities shows three men in the international airport who are suspected to be the perpetrators of the attacks. CNN reported that two of the three men were suicide bombers, with the third man being the facilitator of the attacks. Investigators are still searching for this third man and have utilized the public for help. Officials say there was a third bomb left at the airport, but it did not go off, according to CNN.
Approximately one hour later, another explosion occurred at the Maelbeek metro station, which is in the center of Brussels and a hub for symbolic targets for ISIS, since the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and European Union institutions are in the surrounding area, CNN reported. ISIS has claimed that the group is behind the attacks and warned that there would be more, according to BBC News. Investigators have remarked that the timing of the attacks has a strategic meaning: The attacks on Tuesday occurred just days after the arrest of Salah Abdeslam, the surviving main suspect of the Paris attacks in November, the New York Times reported. A taxi driver, who drove the three men to the airport, recognized the men from a photo and informed authorities where he
had picked them up, according to CNN. From that location of the Schaebeek district of Brussels, authorities were able to perform raids, in which they found chemical products that could be used to make a bomb, accompanied by an ISIS flag. The city of Brussels, with a population of approximately 1 million people, was shut down for a few days as a precaution after the attacks. All flights to and from the city’s international airport were cancelled from Tuesday, March 15, to Wednesday March 16, according to the New York Times. Other forms of transportation were also suspended, such as the Eurostar trains, which run from Brussels to London; the Thalys trains, which run from Brussels to various other European cities and, briefly, every subway line in the city, according to the New
AP Photo
People of Brussels mourn the victims of the terror attacks. York Times. Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel called for a three-day mourning period in the wake of the attacks and regarded Tuesday’s events as “a day of tragedy, a black day.” Other world leaders have
shared their grief and solidarity with the victims of the attacks, including President Barack Obama, who made a statement that the acts of violence were “outrageous attacks against innocent people” according to BBC News.
Obama travels to Cuba for historic visit By Jahnvi Upreti Staff Writer Monday, March 21, marked the first day of President Barack Obama’s historic trip to Cuba. The president and First Lady Michelle Obama toured the capital city of Havana and spoke with members of Cuban society. Following the two-day trip, the president and first lady traveled to Argentina with their daughters, Sasha and Malia. On his first day, Obama visited Havana Cathedral, one of the oldest cathedrals in the world. Following the visit, he honored the statue of Cuban independence champion Jose Martí at Plaza de la Revolución, National Public Radio (NPR) reported. Located 90 miles south of Florida, the last standing president to visit Cuba was Calvin Coolidge in 1928, more than 85 years ago, ABC News Go reported. President Coolidge traveled to Cuba on a U.S. battleship, so “this will be a very different
kind of visit,” Deputy National Security Adviser Ben Rhodes said. Jimmy Carter also traveled to Cuba, though not during his presidency, in 2002 and 2011, at the invitation of the Cuban government. High level members of the U.S. government have also traveled to Cuba, including Secretary of State John Kerry and Transportation Chief Anthony Foxx. One of the most anticipated moments of the trip was the meeting between Obama and Cuban President Raul Castro. Since Obama announced he was visiting the country, there have been diplomatic discussions between the two presidents taking place. This visit follows Obama’s and Castro’s first meeting at a summit conference in Panama last spring. CNN reported that at a news conference, the Cuban ministry implored the U.S. to return its naval base at Guantanamo to Cuba and lift the embargo, which restricts most trade and inhibits travel to the island for tourism. The United States
has not made any promises, though, but promises that it will continue negotiations. Many view this visit as a breakthrough and are lauding President Obama for taking the initiative. Others are not as pleased. According to CNN, former Republican presidential nominee Sen. Marco Rubio stated: “The Cuban government is an anti-American communist dictatorship. They’re a repressive regime.” He went on to state that he would not visit Cuba until it was a “free country.” CNN states that fellow nominee Ted Cruz, along with a number of lawmakers, expressed the same displeasure, saying they believe the president should have waited for Cuba to improve its human rights protocols prior to visiting. So far, though, the U.S. extending its hand to Cuba has proven to be beneficial in mending the broken relationship between the two countries. The United States embassy in Cuba reopened and the Cuban embassy now sports an American
flag. Cuba is also seeing a heightened increase in the number of U.S. tourists, with numbers skyrocketing to 161,500 in 2015, NPR reported. Tourists no longer have to travel to Cuba via third party countries. Last week, U.S. air carriers took part in a bidding war with the hopes of achieving control of trade routes in Cuba, following an accordance signed by both countries, CNN reported. Though the visit is boding well, President Obama still states he’s maintaining caution. While the relationship between Cuba and the United States is certainly improving following the decades of turmoil after the Cold War, improvements will take time to occur. President Obama appears to remain optimistic, mentioning that the U.S. and Cuba have always, and continue to today, have a unique relationship: “The United States and Cuba are like two brothers who’ve been estranged for many years, even as we share the same blood,” NPR reported.
Sanders defeats Clinton and claims three states By Jennifer Goetz Nation & World Editor
AP Photo
Sanders rallies support for Wisconsin primary.
Sen. Bernie Sanders won all three presidentials contests on Saturday, March 26, taking the delegates from Washington, Alaska and Hawaii, and is trying to catch up to Hillary Clinton’s lead. In Washington and Alaska in particular, Sanders performed very well, winning by a significant percentage. Sanders won Washington, the biggest prize of the night, with 101 delegates at stake, the New York Times reported. He won by 72 percent there (a larger margin than his campaign predicted), by 70 percent in Hawaii and by 82 percent in Alaska, according to National Public Radio (NPR). The three states were all expected to be won by Sanders. According to the New York Times, all three states have a small percentage of black and Latino voters who have supported Clinton over Sanders. Sanders has been favored by young and liberal voters, but will need to make headway in states that are more ethnically diverse in the next couple of Democratic presidential contests, according to NPR. The New York Times reported that, as a result of these victories, Sanders is likely to gain greater online donations that will help fuel his campaign going forward. These donations will be able to help fund advertisements in states such as New York or
Pennsylvania, which are holding primaries next month. These states have a significant number of delegates at stake, so the extra money will only help him appeal to them. There are 2,382 delegates needed to secure the Democratic nomination and although Clinton has maintained a comfortable lead, these wins are keeping Sanders in the race to the presidency. NPR reported that Clinton leads Sanders 1,243 to 975 in the pledged delegate count and 1,712 to 1,004 overall, when superdelegates are included. Sanders has to win all the states he’s projected to and more to get the nomination. Sanders will need 58 percent of all the remaining delegates to secure a pledged majority and this is what is campaign is focused on (since super delegates can change their allegiances). His campaign will try to maintain the momentum from these victories to the presidential contests coming up in the next few weeks, according to NPR. Republicans didn’t hold any caucuses or primaries on Saturday, March 26. Both parties will be holding contests in Wisconsin on Tuesday, April 5. “We knew things were going to improve as we headed west,” Sanders told his supporters in Wisconsin at a rally on Saturday night, according to CNN. “We are making significant inroads in Secretary Clinton’s lead and…with your support coming here in Wisconsin, we have a path toward victory.”
page 6 The Signal March 30, 2016
Editorial
Dealing with stress while living away at the College
It’s the second half of the spring semester and classwork is starting to pick up in preperation before finals season. Project dates are looming closer, tests are on the horizon and papers are coming up. Many students are also involved with extracurricular activities, jobs, volunteering and more to keep them on their toes. Just keeping up with classes can be stressful, but having other responsibilities adds to that stress, which gets in the way of students’ opportunities to do what they enjoy stress-free. College students all suffer from stress, but there are ways to cope with it and manage it. A common trend for college students that almost anyone in or out of college is guilty of is not getting enough sleep. It happens. Everyone at some point will need to stay up late either writing a paper, studying or just because they want to. Getting enough sleep does not mean a student needs to get to bed early every night, but that students should be aware of how much sleep they’re getting. According to WebMD, an adult needs to have around 7 to 8 hours of sleep a night, but since that’s not always realistic, sleep in when you get the chance. If you just stayed up one night, take it easy the next night. Sleep in or get to bed early. Make sure that you make up the lack of sleep. Being awake, alert and prepared for the day, especially when you have a test, is more important than cramming the night before. This might also be tough for students, but cutting down on a caffeine intake will help lower stress levels. This is not to say that you can’t have your morning coffee, but watch when you take it. At a certain point in the day, caffeine is not your friend: it keeps you up and alert at times you really should be winding down. Time management skills are vital for almost anything you do, but stellar time-management can make all the difference in a hectic schedule. Set reminders in your phone, keep up with your planner or write the assignment down in a notebook to help keep track. Plan for assignments in advance and work toward starting them. You don’t always have the time to jump on assignments as soon as you can, but it’s helpful (especially when writing an essay) to have a plan. Taking care of yourself is imperative. There is nothing more stressful than knowing there’s a ton of work piling up and you don’t feel well enough to focus on it. Exercising and eating healthy will only make your body feel better. Maintaining relationships is extremely important, however, it is not always easy and can be another source of stress. Talk to your friends, parents, teachers, advisors, Counseling and Psychological Services peer educators or anyone else that could help if you feel the stress of everything weighing on you. Sometimes, talking to someone is all you need to do. Your physical and mental health takes precedent over everything. Yes, school is stressful and yes, there is a lot to do. But it is also springtime. The sun will (hopefully) be shining and the campus will look beautiful (if you ignore the construction, of course). The seniors have less than two months to go before saying goodbye to the College. The best way to combat stress is to prep for it — not only so you don’t have stressful nights, but also to understand that you’ve done all you can and you’ll do your best. Accepting that you have stress is the first step, but understanding that you need a break at some point is important too. Students’ mental and physical health are more important than perfect scores. If you take a break and relax, go for a jog, hang out with your friends, etc. Enjoy the time you have here because it will all be worth it in the end. — Jennifer Goetz Nation & World Editor
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Although college can be stressful, it is important for students to take steps to care for their mental and physical health.
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“What appeared to be a learning obstacle at a young age has turned into an incredible opportunity in terms of providing a new lens for seeing.” — Rebecca Kamen, artist in residence at the National Institute of Health
“It’s easy to think of aspects of Russia that are more intense... (but) Russian culture’s also one of the most important cultures in the world.”
— Emily Wang, adjunct Russian instructor
“It’s the coming of spring for the Persian people and the themes that go along with that — renewal, beauty, wisdom.”
— Sammi Falvey, senior history major and EME vice president
March 30, 2016 The Signal page 7
Opinions
Local primaries open chance for change
Norcross (center) faces competition from a 24 year old in the Democratic primaries. By Tom Ballard Opinions Editor It’s spring here at the College. The flowers are out, the trees are beginning to grow foliage and finals are slowly creeping upon us. But outside the College, this season of rebirth also brings with it another type of season: primary season. With the fierce national battle between Donald Trump and the establishment of the Republican Party, and Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders, it is easy to overlook the other races that Republican and Democratic party members will be deciding in the upcoming primaries on Tuesday, June 7. Despite the lack of attention these local races are receiving, it is essential that voters are informed about them. In addition to the presidential race, primary voters would be voting for their party’s candidates in the states’ 12 congressional districts and various other county and municipal races. The people elected to these positions have, arguably, more power and influence over our daily lives as average citizens than the president who oversees a wide range of issues both domestic and international. Former Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives Tip O’Neill is famed for saying that “all politics is local.” While O’Neill was discussing the importance for politicians to go out and meet with local residences in order to gain support, I think that this quote also aligns with the idea that it is easier for people to connect with more local politicians, since they are forced to address issues that have clear and immediate effects on the American people. According to an Associated Press report in an article from NorthJersey.com from June 3, 2015, only approximately 5.1 percent of eligible New Jersey voters voted in their party primaries during last year’s primaries, the lowest turnout in at least 90 years. But in those primaries, the highest nominations up-for-grabs was for members of the state’s General Assembly, the lower house of the state legislature, and many candidates ran unopposed for their positions, making it seem almost unnecessary for party members to take time out of their daily lives to drag their feet to their polling station to vote. Last year’s general elections in November ended up having the lowest voter turnout for a general election in New Jersey history, with only 20.8 percent of voters taking part in their democratic right to pick their leaders, according to a nj.com article from Nov. 8, 2015. But why did people decide not to vote? It seemed that the positions on the ballot might have something to do with it. In 2012, the last year there was a presidential election, voter turnout in the primaries hovered at around 9 percent across the state, according to the New Jersey Department of State, compared to the 5.1 percent figure from last year mentioned before. It seems that only a small
AP Photo
amount of people actually care about the primaries at all and even less people care about it in years where only local politicians appear on the ballot. But even a 9 percent voter turnout rate for primaries in presidential election years seem too low. Given the time of the New Jersey primaries — in June — the prospective presidential nominees of political parties are already known before anybody in the state could have access to a ballot. But people shouldn’t avoid the ballot box when only one seat seems to be locked up. More local positions have more influence on people’s daily lives, anyway. Mayors and city/township committee bodies have power over citizens to determine local tax rates and local services. County freeholders and other officials (such as sheriff, surrogate and clerk) have the power to lead the local county toward prosperity or despair. The 12 state congressmen are supposed to represent the interest of their constituents in the U.S. House of Representatives and can fight to bring great changes to local communities and the country as a whole. The primary season thus far seems to be very intense, especially in some of the states’ congressional districts. According to a Bergen Dispatch article from Thursday, March 24, Republican Congressman Scott Garrett (5th District) has been taking a beating for his voting record. The congressman of 13 years, who is often touted as one of the most conservative in the state’s delegation, has voted against federally-funded programs for police, firefighters and public safety. Garrett is also currently facing heat for alleged comments he made last year saying that he wouldn’t contribute to the Republican Congressional Committee, the fundraising organization that raises funds to help elect Republicans to the U.S. House, if they contributed to openly-gay candidates, according to a nj.com article from July 16, 2015. Despite this, Garrett will face little opposition in the Republican primary and instead, has
already been tossed into a head-to-head matchup with the perspective Democratic nominee and former Bill Clinton speechwriter Josh Gottheimer. Even though the primary in the 5th District seems to have been placed on a hiatus, other candidates face fierce competition in their primaries, in which voter turnout can have a tremendous effect on who appears on the ballot in November. Congressman Leonard Lance (R-7th District) is currently facing competition from three other Republicans in the June primaries, according to politickernj.com. The once-moderate Republican, who was often seen as an environmentalist, has since scurried to the right on political issues. In addition, freshman Congressman Donald Norcross (D-1st District), brother of state Democratic party powerhouse George Norcross, is facing a fierce competition from 24-year-old, Sanderssupporting Alex Law in June, according to an nj.com article from Tuesday, March 22.
“While voters typically only think of primaries when they fall in presidential years, it is fundamentally important for voters, especially young voters who will be voting in the upcoming decades, to remember that primaries are held every year.”
While voters typically only think of primaries when they fall in presidential years, it is fundamentally important for voters, especially the young voters who will be voting in the upcoming decades, to remember that primaries are held every year. With the exception of candidates for boards of education across the state, the politicians that appear on the ballot in November only do so because they had been vetted and supported by members of the political party in June. While some may look at primaries as being typically unimportant and insignificant, they allow the people who belong to political parties to have their voices heard and choose candidates they believe can best represent their party and benefit their local communities. Primaries allow the people to have a voice in the two-party system of American politics. If Americans refuse to vote in the primaries (especially if they belong to one of the two major political parties), then they are forfeiting the right for their voices to be heard.
AP Photo
People spend too much time focusing on the presidential primaries instead of local races.
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page 8 The Signal March 30, 2016
Announcing the NEW African American Studies Major!
Enroll Now for Fall 2016
TCNJ’s Bachelor of Arts degree in African American Studies is intended for undergraduate students who wish to pursue a wide range of careers including education, journalism, social work, civil service, medicine, business, state government, urban planning and policy, etc. The skills taught in this major are also well suited for students interested in graduate programs in many disciplines. The AAS major is not only an ideal complement to professional majors and programs at TCNJ, but also to Premed programs in New Jersey and beyond. This major provides students with the cultural competency needed to flourish in an increasingly diverse workforce and is designed to accommodate minors, second majors, and international travel.
Major Core: • AAS 179 / HIS 179: African American History to 1865 • AAS 180 / HIS 180: African American History 1865 Present • AAS 378 / HIS 378: AfricanAmerican Literature 19201980 • CoRequisite in Methods/Statistics • AAS 495: Senior Capstone: Independent Research Any Questions? Email Dr. Piper Kendrix Williams at williamp@tcnj.edu
This major requires 5 electives. These courses complement several academic plans, and students may crosscount up to 3 courses.
Do you like cookies, giveaways & learning about courses to take during the winter and summer? Then come to the . . .
SUMMER & WINTER PROGRAMS FAIR! WHEN?
April 8th, 2016
Learn about our course offerings and different formats including:
11:00 am – 1:30 pm
WHERE? Outside Eickhoff Hall in Alumni Grove
On-campus Blended Online Travel
Rain Location: Inside Eickhoff hallway Office of Summer and Winter Programs Green Hall 203 intersession.tcnj.edu summer@tcnj.edu
March 30, 2016 The Signal page 9
Garland deserves his day in Congress
AP Photo
Congress should consider looking at Merrick Garland, President Obama’s nominee for the Supreme Court. By Jake Mulick
It’s really a shame that Merrick Garland, President Barack Obama’s nominee to fill the vacancy on the Supreme Court, will probably not become a United States Supreme Court Justice. He is the best choice, as far as both political sides are concerned. As a middle-of-the-road liberal who is Harvard Law-educated and has served on the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, there is no way around it: Garland, with his impressive résumé, is the ideal
candidate for both parties to serve on the Supreme Court. Unfortunately, he is just being used as a political pawn by the Obama administration to prove that the Republicans across the aisle are unreasonable members of Congress, unwilling to contribute to bipartisanship. Garland is a respected and experienced candidate who, for the most part, would appease both sides of the aisle. This being said, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, a Republican from Kentucky, has vowed to not permit an
Obama nominee to be approved by the Senate, according to his statement on Politico.com from Saturday, Feb. 13, which was released just hours after the death of Justice Antonin Scalia. The Republicans’s decision to block any Obama nominee comes from multiple different beliefs. The first and foremost is that Scalia was a very conservative member of the court and, by appointing a liberal judge, it will tip the court into leaning left on most future decisions. Another school of thought is that Obama has already appointed two judges, Sonia
Sotomayor and Elena Kagan, and should not be permitted to appoint a third. The third and final school of thought is something called the Thurmond Rule. That rule is that no lame duck president, a president in his or her final year as president, should be allowed to nominate a Supreme Court Justice. The Thurmond Rule has only been implemented once, in order to block President Lyndon Johnson’s appointment of Abe Fortas as chief justice, according to the New York Times, but the Republicans claim that this is an important precedent that has been set forth. The Republicans’s control of the Senate and refusal to do anything in order to appoint Garland as Supreme Court Judge is abhorrent. The constitution clearly states that the president has the power to appoint a nomination for the Supreme Court. It doesn’t say anything about term endings or anything akin to that, but it does clearly state what powers the president has. Obama has given the Republicans a gift with nominating Garland, but unfortunately, they will still refuse to consider him because of party allegiances. This event represents a massive problem with bipartisanship in the United States. The refusal to entertain the nomination of a Supreme Court justice based on the talking points of a political party over working with the commanderin-chief is bad politics, as well as a disappointing reflection on McConnell and the rest of the Republican leadership. Scalia’s dedication to strict constructionist ideals should be reason enough for the senate to entertain a nomination. I hope that the president is able to finagle some sort of deal in order to put Garland in a Supreme Court robe, but I am pessimistic about his chances.
Environmental crisis in Haiti should be noticed Population suffers as corporations prosper By Louinel Jean and Sandrale Schettini After years of political unrest and leadership failures, the marginalization of rural life in Haiti is directly influenced by continued environmental neglect. Mainstream outlets and social media discussions focus their attentions mainly on current political events that often devolve into heated debates driven by distortion. Meanwhile, civil discourse about environmental decay that could turn into actionable behavior for collective societal dignity is ignored. Instead, the Haitian population, directed toward endless political intrigue, grows increasingly ignorant about the real issues that impact its livelihood: the effects of deforestation, the neglect of soil care and water infrastructure and the dire consequence of global warming. Haitians burn wood charcoal for 60 percent of their domestic energy production, according to the Energy Sector Management Assistance Program. Less than 2 percent of Haiti is forested, which has led to topsoil erosion. The country’s decreased agricultural yields has resulted in deadly landslides and mounting poverty. Left to take their course, these manmade disasters undermine the integrity of human life. We need a more thoughtful approach to the complex societal problems that engulf Haiti. So far, a streamlining of social and environmental education is unlikely to supplant citizens’ mainstream focus on political debates. Is it any wonder that growing poverty, linked to food insecurity and desertification, is taking a heavy toll on the day-to-day lives in the hills, mountains and cities of Haiti? While it is one thing to catalyze a specialized body of citizens to help sustain a Haitian democracy, it is yet another to help disseminate information to the wider public about how to reach the ideals of a democratic society. Democracy aspires to opportunity, to granting equitable
access to resources and championing the importance of human rights. Yet we have not been able to integrate the disparate dialogues into a cohesive narrative. Denying Haitians their right to education about the sustained development that is directly linked to the resources that meet their fundamental needs is tantamount to denying them life. People’s awareness on issues of environmental degradation, having reached the point of crises, is neglected. And yet the irony lies in the fact that it is hunger, as a whopping 67 percent of the population goes without food some days due to severe unemployment according to the World Food Program, as opposed to constant political maneuverings, which adversely affects Haiti’s citizens. So far, deforestation, which is at the core of intergenerational misery, has not been addressed at any comparative rate to institutional politics both by national and international entities who seek to help stabilize Haiti. Haiti’s instability is a byproduct of its poverty. We cannot solve the problem by ignoring its roots. It is time to give more credence to the politics of environmental health than to the rise and fall of new leaders and whims of politicians. We call for an effort to plug citizens in the conversation of environmental literacy while showing how it correlates to economic development, social wellbeing and welfare. The international community must seek to empower those grassroots initiatives that prioritize and address those goals practically. Consider all the outpouring of support to Haiti in the aftermath of the 2010 earthquake. Why then did the issues detrimental to human life remain in place while, in fact, it did seem as if that event was an opportunity for a transformational tipping point? The answer lies in the many foreign and internal interests united in support of Haiti’s defective political culture instead of
its strategic development. There’s money to be made in continued dysfunction. Many foreign donors are either unaware of or turn a blind eye to the pervasive corruption characterized by both governmental and international institutions. Together, they form a symbiotic system that pays lip service to Haiti’s fundamental social problems, calling for quick-fix relief aid when disaster strikes. With this kind of band-aid approach, can you wonder at the cumulative negative effect produced when one dire consequence is ignored only to set off a chain of subsequent catastrophes? It is important to engage the global citizenry, to help spread this positive civic virus, pushing it to the level of an epidemic. Louinel Jean and Sandrale Schettini are members of the group Each One Plant One, an organization that promotes reforestation in Haiti and advocates against environmental pillage. Jean is the leader of the organization.
AP Photo
Deforestation is just one of Haiti’s problems.
page 10 The Signal March 30, 2016
March 30, 2016 The Signal page 11
Students share opinions around campus
Is Garland a good nominee? Are local elections important? “Yeah, I wish that they have more stuff on campus (about local elections)... nobody on campus talks about them.”
“I really don’t mind if the next president decides (the next justice)... I really don’t know too much about (Garland).”
Tom Ballard / Opinions Editor
Tom Ballard / Opinions Editor
Vincent Allen, freshman criminology major.
Becca Haverlin, sophomore special education and psychology double major.
“Definitely... I feel like people always complain about situations going on in their towns, but they don’t take the time to... do something about it.”
“I think that since (Obama is) the comander-in-chief, he should be able to appoint anyone (he wants).”
Tom Ballard / Opinions Editor
Dominic Clark, freshman management major.
Tom Ballard / Opinions Editor
Kimberly Ho, senior nursing major.
The Signal asks... Are students preparing for the upcoming summer?
Vincent: “Definitely... I just feel that everybody is getting in the mindset... I brought back all of my summer clothes over the break.” Becca: “No, because the weather hasn’t been nice (but once it is)... They’ll be in the summer mood.” Dominic: “I think spring break was like a taste of summer (for students).” Kimberly: “Personally, as a senior, I’m happy to be graduating and it’s just hitting me (now, but for other students)... it’s only halfway through the semester and there’s still a lot of things going on.”
Rob Birnbohm / Cartoonist
As the weather begins to change, some students at the College are letting the nice temperature hit them hard.
page 12 The Signal March 30, 2016
Features
Dyslexic artist shares her work and wisdom
Kamen skillfully weaves scientific discoveries into her art
Left: Twitter.com, Right: Kim Iannarone / Photo Editor
Left: ‘Butterflies of the Soul’ transforms neurons into butterflies. Right: Kamen explains that her dyslexia allows her to see patterns in science. By Elise Schoening Features Editor The arts and sciences are often considered mutually exclusive disciplines, but Rebecca Kamen, an artist in residence at the National Institute of Health, has found a way to appease her affinity for both. On Wednesday, March 23, Kamen gave a lecture to students of the College in Mayo Concert Hall. The celebrated artist and scientist spoke about the intersection of the two fields and how her struggles with dyslexia have helped further her career by allowing her to see the world through a different perspective.
“What appeared to be a learning obstacle at a young age has turned into an incredible opportunity in terms of providing a new lens for seeing,” Kamen said. “It has empowered me to see new relationships in the world around me, which has informed and inspired my work as an artist.” Kamen’s artwork has been displayed at art centers and universities across the nation. The majority of her art is rooted in the sciences, whether that is the mechanics of neurons or hidden patterns in the Periodic Table of Elements. Kamen says her interest in the sciences dates back to her younger days. “As a child, I dreamt of being
a scientist, but dyslexia, before that word came into existence, prevented me from pursuing a traditional scientific career path,” Kamen said. While Kamen may not be a scientist in the traditional sense of the word, it is clear that her artwork represents a deep understanding and respect for the discipline. In fact, Kamen described science as a form of magic and said she uses art to depict the beauty of its many discoveries. Her ability to bridge the gap between the two fields and skillfully blend the two together sets her apart from her colleagues and the conventional scientist. Kamen credits her profound
fascination with the sciences stems from the many museum visits she took as a child. During one visit, she toured an exhibit where the human heart was transformed into a larger-than-life art piece that patrons were able to explore. Kamen said that seeing the heart as a form of architecture planted the seeds for her later career path traversing art and science. In 2012, she spent several months interviewing neuroscientists and then transformed their scientific work into artwork for display. It is through such projects that Kamen has been able to bring scientific discoveries and wonders to those outside the community. Kamen’s lecture focused little
on her dyslexia, but she did describe the learning disability as a catalyst for seeing hidden patterns and the interconnections between diverse fields of study. She noted that scientific genius Albert Einstein is commonly believed to have been dyslexic. What the pair has in common is the ability to transcend the learning disability and find meaning in the seemingly mundane. “Pattern is so significant to creating bridges between art and science,” Kamen said. “The ability to see patterns is not something that everyone can do, but it is something that many dyslexic people have this gift and ability to see.”
Panel discusses social work and career fulfillment
By JoAnna DiCicco Correspondent
Philosophy Professor Morton Winston hosted a panel discussion with Trentonbased social entrepreneurs and nonprofit leaders on Thursday, March 24. The panel, titled “Working for Social Good,” featured four entrepreneurs and a discussion centered on whether or not it is possible to make a living by giving back to the local community. Two of the panelists currently serve as executive directors for nonprofit organizations. Perry Shaw III works for A Better Way, a Trenton-based nonprofit that provides services to recently released inmates, as well as at-risk youth and family. Panelist Bentrice Jusu established Both Hands: The Artlet in 2011 and nows serves as the executive director of the nonprofit organization, which uses art to transform the lives of teens in Trenton, N.J. Also on the panel was the Global Vice President of Communications for TerraCycle, Albe Zakes, and the founder and CEO of Solar States, Micah Gold-Markel. Senior history and philosophy double major Steven Rodriguez, one of many students who attended the event, noted that college students are often forced into a career that is highly profitable, but not necessarily fulfilling because of their student loan debts. As such, he inquired about when these leaders decided that they wanted to
Flickr.com
All four panelists work to better the Trenton-Philadelphia communities.
pursue something that makes less money. “If you want to make God laugh, make a plan,” Shaw said in response to Rodriguez’s question. Shaw, who was formerly a prison guard, then explained that he much prefers a fulfilling career over a profitable one. “My worst day (at A Better Way) is better than my best at law enforcement. I love it and I would never change it for the world.” Gold-Markel offered a different perspective and explained that “profitability is sustainability.” He said his business views solar energy as a vehicle for change. Junior sociology major Annie Elfers
asked the panel where they see their organizations in the future. Jusu responded that she wants her organization, a place where teenagers in Trenton can go to express themselves through the arts, to be able to exist without her. The main goal is that Both Hands “seeps into the community and does what it is supposed to do.” Shaw expressed his desire for his father, one of his hardest working partners in their organization, to be able to receive a paycheck that is at least $1, since “he and I have been investing everything we have in A Better Way.” Shaw went on to explain
that he has rejected deals offering money and business in other larger cities because “Trenton comes first.” A Better Way is an organization that focuses on helping people who were in prison to re-enter into society, reducing gangs and building up the Trenton community. Winston inquired how these leaders assess their social impact on their communities. Gold-Markel said that as a benefit corporation, Solar States is frequently audited to ensure that the company is upholding high standards of recycling and other green practices, as well as fulfilling its diversity inclusion goals. On the other hand, Jusu said she has personally seen the effects of her non-profit’s work on members in the local community. “I know we are doing some amazing things,” Jusu said. Jusu then shared a story of a young girl who was unable to speak in front of a dozen of her peers, but after working closely with Jusu and the others at the Both Hands organization, she is now comfortable enough to speak in front of tens of thousands of people. With the lack of profits and constant pressure to dedicate their time to better the community, there is no doubt that these leaders have experienced burn-out from the stress and pressure. “Try to quit, go ahead. If it is really there, imprinted on your heart, you’ll go right back,” Jusu said.
March 30, 2016 The Signal page 13
: April ‘02
Campus Style
Students bathe outdoors
White & Blue in Trenton, N.J., while at home (in Union, N.J.), I shop at Unique Thrift Store. I like finding wind breakers or bright colored articles there. JK: What is one trend you don’t understand? SP: I really can’t stand sagging pants or pants that hang below people’s butts. JK: What “makes” the outfit for a guy? SP: A nice pair of slacks.
Elise Schoening / Features Editor
Budget cuts leave students with no choice but to bathe in Lake Sylva.
Every week, Features Editor Elise Schoening hits the archives and finds old Signals that relate to current College topics and top stories. The April Fools edition of The Signal is notorious for its outlandish stories. Forget pushing the envelope, there are simply no boundaries when it comes to what can and can’t be printed this time of year, and the 2002 edition of the paper did not disappoint. The front page featured an absurd story about students being forced to bathe in Lake Sylva, as Centennial Hall was to be torn down due to budget cuts. The story, of course, ended with multiple student deaths. In an effort to save money, after state-wide budget cuts, the College has decided to let Centenni-hell Hall crumble to the ground. “We have decided to stop putting money into repairs,” said MerryEclaire-Penny, dean of student life. “We don’t have money to hire outside contractors. What do you want me to do, tile the bathrooms myself?!” Penny continued, “We have two large bodies of water right on campus. Why should we pay to give Centennihell indoor plumbing? That doesn’t make sense economically”
Penny laughed manically. “Mwahahahaha!” She then disappeared in a cloud of black smoke outside the Stupid Center. To make up for the fact that residents in all other dorms on campus don’t have to bathe outdoors, the administration distributed one free bar of Ivory soap to each of the five Centenni-hell floors. “The Ivory soap works well,” said Centenni-hell resident Harry Grecci. “It floats!” Dwight D. Eidontshower agreed. “It’s nice. I don’t have to bend over to pick it up,” he said. One problem faced by residents has been unexplained cases of worms in those who bathe in the lake. “We gave them a band-aid,” Anne Denialero of health services said. “Those babies should clear up in a few days.” So far 18 students have died. “Students have died on campus?!” Jesse Rosesinbloom said, when asked about the bodies floating in Lake Sylva. “No further comment!” he yelled as he ran to find Our Barbie Guttenberg. The End.
Photo Courtesy of Jordan Koziol
Paytas’s style is inspired by the ’80s.
By Jordan Koziol Columnist
Name: Shea Paytas Year: Senior Major: Management JK: How would you describe your style? SP: A mix of outrageous and classic clothing. For example, I’ll pair bright and patterned pants with classic button downs. JK: What are you wearing? SP: A denim worker shirt from Gap, J. Crew khakis rolled up at the bottom, a Columbia ski jacket from the thrift shop and leather desert boots. JK: Who is your fashion icon? SP: The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. He always looked awesome. JK: What’s your favorite style decade? SP: The ’80s. It was all about bright, crazy styles. I like the generation’s workout and MC Hammer pants. JK: What’s your favorite places to shop? SP: The thrift store. At school, I go to Red
JK: You’ve dabbled in the fashion industry. Tell us a little about your experience. SP: Sophomore year, my friend Tom Athan and I started a company called Dudz. We were inspired by a pair of pants from the ’90s at a thrift shop, so we decided to make our own. When we began, we got materials from discount stores, and then when business picked up, we moved to wholesalers. We did 80 custom orders in 2013. JK: Describe the pants in three words. SP: Comfortable, bright and outrageous. JK: What was your favorite pants design? SP: They were black with a gold abstract bamboo pattern. JK: Did you have any surprising customers? SP: My uncle. He’s a “manly-man” and bought the brightest, most outrageous pair. JK: What’s the latest on the company? SP: We retrofitted the model and renamed the company — now it’s called Mojos. The new brand takes inspiration from ’80s workout pants and blends it with a modern athletic fit. The business is on pause for now. JK: Will you pick it up post-graduation? SP: Well, Tom is going to abroad to teach and I will be traveling, but it’s definitely an option down the road. It’s something I’d like to pursue in the future.
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page 14 The Signal March 30, 2016
THE MAYO BUSINESS PLAN COMPETITION THANKS…
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March 30, 2016 The Signal page 15
Arts & Entertainment
Poetry night showcases student talent
Miller shares her work with the packed crowd.
By Alyssa Gautieri Staff Writer
The College’s creative writing organization, INK, hosted its spring Student Reading Series on Tuesday, March 22, in the Library Auditorium. The series featured four talented poets: Hope Sirimis, Emily Miller, Daniel Marino and Kira DeSomma. Sirimis, a freshman English major, has been recognized regionally and nationally for her poetry. She described her fast writing process as “frantic” and admitted it usually only takes her 10 minutes to write a poem. While she explained she can not always sit down and dissect exactly what she wants to say, a lot of her writing happens through editing. Sirimis’s love for poetry began in second grade, however, she didn’t muster the courage to begin sharing her work until her junior year of high school, when a friend asked to read an intimate poem she had written about her sister. “(My friend) read it and she just
Kim Iannarone / Photo Editor
bursted out crying,” Sirimis said. This was Sirimis’s first time seeing how her poetry could impact others. “I felt like I had helped to give her a voice with her sister that she never thought existed,” Sirimis said. For Sirimis, human connection is incredibly important. “These days, it is really hard to get that intimate setting and I felt like through that poem, (my friend and I) were able to connect,” Sirimis said. Once Sirimis discovered how helpful and inspiring her poetry could be to other people, she started writing with a main purpose of sharing. “Poetry is very important to me and the main reason why I started writing poetry was to give others a voice who are usually unheard,” Sirimis said. The next reader, senior English major Marino, had other ideas on why poets write. “I think sometimes, people make art because they love it or sometimes because it makes them money,” Marino said. However, Marino explained the reason
he believes most people write poetry. “Ultimately, I think we are just trying to get something on paper that we can’t quite get out otherwise,” he said. For DeSomma, a senior English major, putting her emotions down on paper and establishing a voice through her poetry is also very important. “While the poems (I wrote for tonight’s Student Reading Series) were fiction, they are sort of like a reflection of my life,” DeSomma said. DeSomma’s close friend, senior interactive multimedia major Amanda Yuocolo, attended the event to support her work. “Kira’s personality is reflected so well in her writing that I feel like I can hear her voice when I read it,” Yuocolo said. DeSomma has a different way of presenting her poetry than the evening’s other readers. She is currently working with her aunt, who will create illustrations, to transform her work into a storybook. “I wanted to do something where the
art style is kind of childish and you could almost see it as a child’s book,” DeSomma said. “But it is not a child’s book.” According to DeSomma, it was interesting to see the illustrations her aunt created when she was given complete creative freedom. “I had trouble visualizing what it would look like, but I couldn’t be happier with the way it turned out,” she said. DeSomma’s one-of-a-kind poetry presentation during the Student Reading Series is just one example of the creativity, passion and diversity that the poets reflected through their work. According to INK President and senior English major Rachel Friedman, in order to be a participant in the reading series, there is an competitive application process. Students must send their applications to INK’s executive board, where their literary works are voted upon. Friedman emphasized that being able to speak at INK’s Student Reading Series is both a privilege and an honor.
Kim Iannarone / Photo Editor
Sirimis has garnered national attention for her poems.
Persian New Year concert celebrates spring By Sierra Stivala Staff Writer
Trees are revived, flowers are reborn, Earth is rejuvenated and life is renewed. Students, faculty and community members gathered to celebrate the onset of spring through the Eurasian Middle Eastern Society’s (EME) Persian New Year’s celebration
on Thursday, March 24, in the Decker Social Space. The celebration is called Nowruz, which translates to “new daylight.” According to Persian culture, each spring brings about a new opportunity to start fresh. “It’s the coming of spring for the Persian people and the themes that go along with that — renewal, beauty, wisdom,” senior history
Kim Iannarone / Photo Editor
Vahab performs traditional music for the event.
major and EME Vice President Sammi Falvey said. This year was the College’s seventh annual Persian New Year’s celebration. Interestingly, the number seven is spiritual, representing the number of dishes included in the Haft-Seen. Haft-Seen is a tabletop spread of dishes that all begin with the letter “seen,” or “s.” Each dish symbolizes a hope or wish for the New Year. The dishes include sir (garlic for good health), serkeh (vinegar for patience and age), sumac (spiced berries for the spice of life), senjed (fruit of lotus tree for love and affection), sabzeh (sprouted wheat grass for rebirth and renewal), samanu (wheat pudding for fertility) and seeb (apples for health and beauty). The celebration began with a musical performance from celebrated composer and vocalist Amir Vahab and his ensemble. The ensemble consisted of drummers and vocalists from all over the globe performing a combination of traditional Turkish, Persian and Armenian music. The outcome was
a beautifully-genuine tribute to the diversity of the culture. The carefully-intertwined melodies and languages yielded a range of rhythms. As people danced along in the back of the room, there was a noticeable transition from mellow to fast-paced songs. Vahab introduced the meaning and history of each song before it began. The music encompassed a range of topics, from love to culture. The song “Winter is Over” perfectly captures the essence of the celebration. Junior public health major Jennifer Teets attended the celebration for the first time this year. “I’ve never heard Middle Eastern music before,” Teets said. “Each song sounded romantic but happy. I loved watching everyone embrace that sentiment.” After Vahab’s seventh annual performance, the celebration continued with a feast. North Brunswick’s King Pita catered the event with traditional Middle Eastern cuisine. The feast included hummus, baba ghanoush, stuffed grape leaves, spinach pies, chicken and rice.
The club reveres the event as the culmination of a year’s hard work. “This is the flagship event for all people of the Iranian community,” senior international studies major and EME Public Relations Director Martín Crosby-Arreaza said. One of EME’s favorite aspects of the event is the community engagement it attracts. “A lot of people here are of Persian decent… it’s both a collegiate and community celebration,” Falvey said. Many non-Persian students, curious to see what the celebration is all about, also attended the event. Sophomore fine arts major Melina Magriples heard about the event through an Arabic art class. Magriples enjoyed seeing aspects of the culture she hadn’t previously been exposed to. “(In the art class), we don’t really get to see the music aspect of it,” Magriples said. It was EME’s hope that those who attended left the celebration feeling full, happy and renewed, ready to embark upon the journey of a new year.
page 16 The Signal March 30, 2016
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March 30, 2016 The Signal page 17
Politics and betrayal in new ‘Cards’ By Connor Smith Social Media Editor
Kevin Spacey returns as the devious President Frank Underwood in the fourth season of the award-winning Netflix drama, “House of Cards.” The 13-episode season premiered on Friday, March 4, bringing audiences on a wild ride of drama, betrayal and surprises that you’d expect from an episode of “Game of Thrones.” After a falling out with his wife Claire, portrayed by Robin Wright, Underwood is forced to regroup with the pressures of an increasinglybloody Democratic primary complicating an already unstable presidency. As Underwood’s vile past comes back to haunt him, he must cope with the reality that certain things are out of his control. Skyrocketing gas prices and a diplomatic conflict with Russia might be the least of Underwood’s concerns this season. Elizabeth Marvel is back as the morally-grounded Democratic candidate Heather Dunbar. While both she and Underwood must explore every possibility for voter support, Republican frontrunner Will Conway looms in the distance, gearing up for the election with a combination of charm and Machiavellian tactics that are reminiscent of a young Underwood. This season’s greatest strength lies with its characters and how they adapt to some of the series’ most audacious writing. The Underwoods must hurdle a laundry list of obstacles that would bring any reasonable person to their knees. Many of the major conflicts come close to breaking suspension of disbelief. However, the emotional drive that flows throughout each episode makes the show as addicting as it is improbable. Although Underwood’s presidency is at the center of every storyline, it’s his wife’s evolution from a supportive spouse to a more independent leader that causes the most ripples in the White House. Despite being the cause of the show’s countless conflicts, Claire does a fine job of keeping herself in the audience’s good graces. Redemption is also a common theme, as characters — both good and bad — are given second chances to right their wrongs. Ironically, it’s the characters with a moral high-ground who the viewer will find themselves rooting against. By demonizing innocent reporters and clean politicians, the show’s best interests
This week, Nelson Kelly, WTSR assistant music director, highlights some of the best new albums that the College’s own radio station, 91.3 FM WTSR, puts into its weekly rotation.
Spacey is back as the captivating Underwood.
AP Photo
often tussle with one’s good conscience. It’s a feeling that is quite in-tune with the popular dynamics of “Breaking Bad,” although you could argue one is more nuanced than the other. Derek Cecil’s performance as the cunning Director of Communications Seth Grayson helps foil the stone-cold demeanor of fan-favorite Doug Stamper, portrayed by Michael Kelly, while newcomer LeAnn Harvey (Neve Campbell) adds a new dynamic to Stamper’s reign over Underwood’s inner-circle. The writing for season four is clever, as always. Each episode features a rotating list of lead writers, but the continuity does not suffer one bit. Almost every character undergoes massive evolutions from the beginning of the season, for better or for worse. Despite over nine hours of content, season four of “House of Cards” will leave you anxiously waiting for any tidbit of news for the upcoming season five. If you’re tired of following the ongoing antics of the 2016 presidential race, then the new season of “House of Cards” is a great reminder that perhaps this race could be a lot worse — or better, depending on your perspective.
‘Vinyl’ spins a classic rock drama
‘Vinyl’ gives an inside look at the music industry of the 1970s. By Thomas Infante Staff Writer
The new HBO series “Vinyl” is an entertaining character-drama set in the 1970s during the height and popularity of classic rock culture. With Martin Scorsese and Mick Jagger as creators and executive producers, the show gained attention from music fans who hoped to get an insider perspective about one of the best eras in music history. While the references to popular music and musicians are plentiful, most of them don’t add much to the overall story of the show, which focuses heavily on the hectic lives of the protagonists. Our flawed hero is Richie Finestra (Bobby Cannavale), a record executive with a weakness for cocaine and self-indulgence. At the show’s beginning, we see Richie as the fulfilled family man and proceed to watch him destroy his happy life with drugs and selfishness. When Richie and his wife Devon (Olivia Wilde) married, they made a pact to quit using drugs, knowing how dangerously prevalent substances are in the record business. After Richie’s relapse, Devon begins to seek fulfillment outside of her family, turning to her old friends that are a part of Andy Warhol’s Factory scene, a popular hangout spot for artists and stars. The acting is consistently passionate and
AP Photo
believable, especially from Cannavale. Spending most his time in a drug-induced stupor, it’s an absolute joy to watch Richie scream and fight his way through any situation that faces him. Although he is intimidating to most of the other characters, there are times when Richie shows a more sensitive side as well, and the credibility of his emotional range can be attributed mainly to Cannavale’s acting prowess. Wilde’s character is often portrayed as a free-spirited and caring individual who has a difficult time dealing with Richie’s drug binges. She is a very strong woman, especially considering the time in which the show is set. The supporting cast spends most of the show picking up the pieces after Richie’s many questionable decisions. Richie’s business partner, Zak (Ray Romano), is usually the first to question his leadership, but rarely can influence his decisions. Kip Stevens (James Jagger) sings in a punk band called “The Nasty Bits,” which is signed to Richie’s record label. Kip’s sarcastic humor and indifferent attitude towards life clashes with Richie’s passion for the music business and Kip is forced to adapt to Richie’s orders. Richie does have great taste in music, which is one of the show’s strong points. Classic rock music fills the majority of the show’s soundtrack and almost all of it is exceptional. Some of the featured music
includes work by David Bowie, The Who, The Velvet Underground, The Rolling Stones and many more. Usually about once per episode, there is a performance from a doppelganger of a famous rock star. Actors portraying The New York Dolls perform “Personality Crisis” in the first episode and the performance is more than just a cover of the song — it is explosive and we can see the audience wildly cheering and dancing at the show. “Vinyl” does an excellent job at creating these performances that make you feel as if you truly are watching a documentary about the band or artist performing. Many classic rock icons make fictionalized appearances in the show. Robert Plant, Lou Reed and Alice Cooper all show up, portrayed by various actors. The appearances of these musicians showcase the fantastic costume design. All of these rock icons are immediately recognizable to the viewer, which makes the show a much more immersive period piece. Although the show can seem ridiculous at times, it is fairly historically accurate in its depictions of landmark classic rock events. In the first episode, Richie goes to see The New York Dolls perform and the venue collapses on top of the audience. As unbelievable as this seems, this event actually occurred in real life at the Mercer Arts Center in 1973, although there was no performance happening during the collapse. Another example is a flashback to Richie’s past when he first meets his wife at a Velvet Underground show in New York’s East Village club, a show that occurred at the same approximate time and place in real life. All of these details help “Vinyl” rise above the status of a typical drama series. The characters are fun and interesting and Cannavale’s acting is particularly exhilarating to watch. Although many of the rock references amount to little overall plot significance, the variety of famous characters help the show stay interesting and watchable, just in case you want to watch something other than Richie snorting as much cocaine as he can within a 60-minute time slot.
Band Name: Hollywood Blanks Album Name: “Projections” Hailing From: Baltimore, Md. Genre: Bluesy Alternative Rock Label: Self-Released The first full-length effort from Hollywood Blanks is a great insight into its unorthodox, rather theatrical approach to songwriting. Each song feels like a rock opera in itself, which makes sense because most of the songs on this album clock in at the five-minute mark. With vocal delivery reminiscent of Elton John, long theatrical compositions like Meatloaf and rockin’ bluesy guitars that call back to Emerson, Lake and Palmer and The Who, “Projections” is a wild ride. Still, you can hear contemporary influences like Black Keys, Arctic Monkeys and even Queens of the Stone Age in the energy of the bluesy riffs and licks that tie the album together. Check it out if you’re tired of the same old alternative rock! Must Hear: “Savior in Denial,” “Let You Down,” “Best Thing Since the Truth” and “With Love For Arlo”
Band Name: Writer Album Name: “Principle Web” Hailing From: Brooklyn, N.Y. Genre: Noisey Garage Rock Label: Small Plates “Principle Web” is the first full-length we’ve seen from Writer since 2012’s “Brotherface” and it is clear that the band has grown since then (musically, assuming they’re done with puberty and all that). Brothers James and Andy Ralph have toured with experimental noise rock bands relentlessly since the release of “Brotherface” and it certainly shows on “Principle Web.” The Ralph brothers manage to find the perfect balance between noise and floaty, ethereal melody in these songs, which showcase these two brothers’ unbreakable bond of friendship and musical tightness. Check out these guys if you’re into huge walls of sound that don’t compromise vocal prowess, because they nail it. Must Hear: “Mosquito Bitten,” “Art Fair,” “CNWN,” “Is You” and “Neighborly”
page 18 The Signal March 30, 2016
Sports
Lacrosse
Lions fall to State University of New York, 16-9 By George Tatoris Sports Assistant
The Lions plowed through unranked Ursinus College, 111, on Tuesday, March 22. The team pushed back against No. 12 ranked Messiah College on Thursday, March 24, defeating them, 13-6, but suffered their first loss this season against topranked State University of New York (SUNY) at Cortland, 16-9, on Saturday, March 26. The Lions are 7-1 after the Cortland game and they moved up the coaches’ poll from fourth to third. “At the start of the game we were excited, but definitely nervous since the majority of us have never played Cortland before,” junior attacker Mia Blackman said. The Red Dragons were relentless. By the end of the game, they had made 35 shots against the Lions. Freshman goaltender Miranda Chrone explained one the Red Dragon’s maneuvers which had the Lions on edge. “Even though I knew they were cutting through the middle, they were smart and acted as if they were going to crease roll,” Chrone said. “So I had to respect the girl with the ball, which left me less time to turn my head and
get into position for the girl in the middle.” Senior attacker Cortney Natalicchio opened the scoring in the game, but her goal was swiftly answered by the Red Dragons opponents — the two players scored three goals in 49 seconds. Over the next 14 minutes, the Red Dragons added three more goals while their goaltender thwarted each of the Lions’s shots. With less than 10 minutes remaining, sophomore defender Elizabeth Morrison put another tally on the board for the Lions, but by then the Red Dragons were ahead, 6-2. For the remainder of the game, the Lions were playing catch up. “The hardest part was playing our game instead of reacting to the game they were giving us, especially since we know we are better than how we played,” junior attacker Mia Blackman said. Whenever the Lions pushed, the Red Dragons pushed back. After Morrison’s goal, Natalicchio scored another, making it a three-point contest, but Cortland made two more goals, ending the period, 8-3. The tug-of-war continued into the second half. Cortland made three goals and the Lions answered with three of their own, making it a five-point match, but this is as close as the Lions would
Photo courtesy of the Sports Information Desk
Sophomore attacker Amanda Muller looks for a chance.
get to Cortland in the second half. In the final 10 minutes of play, the Red Dragons made five more goals while the Lions only made three, making the final a loss, 16-9. The fight against the Red Dragons brought out the best in the team. Senior midfielder Megan Devlin had five caused turnovers. Combined, Cortland only had two additional turnovers. Chrone made nine saves, a season- and career-best for the rookie. “This game showed me how on the ball you have to be at all times in order to come out on top against good competition,” Chrone said. Chrone nearly shut out Ursinus College earlier in the week on Tuesday, March 22, but a goal in
the last 40 seconds put the Bears on the board, ending the game, 11-1. “I do have to give them credit, though, because they never stopped,” Chrone said. “They were looking for a goal the whole game and ended up getting it in the last minute of the game. I tried my best, but couldn’t get to it.” Though Ursinus was unranked, the Lions had trouble scoring on them at first. After eight minutes, there was only one goal on the board, which was from Mia Blackman, unusual in a usually high-scoring sport. It wasn’t until a timeout and some advice from Head Coach Sharon Pfluger were they able to get the ball rolling. “At the timeout, coach told
March Madness
us to stop rushing through things and just read the situations so we could capitalize on the openings,” Blackman said. Blackman scored the first goal after the timeout. From then on it was smooth-sailing for the Lions. With just one day of practice, the Lions played the Messiah College Falcons on Thursday, March 24, taking home a 13-6 win. The Lions and the Falcons went at it with zeal from the start — in the first 10 minutes, there were seven goals between the two teams. The Falcons had the first goal, but sophomore attacker Amanda Muller tied it up quickly. At the break, the Lions were ahead, 7-4, but that changed in the second half. Thanks to a strong performance from Morrison, the Falcons were kept from scoring again until the last five minutes of the game. Morrison took control whenever the ball was in the backfield. She ended the game with five ground balls, five draw controls and an impressive eight caused turnovers. While the Lions ended the week with a loss, they remain positive. “Even though it didn’t end how we would have liked, we now know what we have to work on and it’s going to make us grow stronger as a team,” Chrone said.
Baseball
LTV vs. Signal — week two Lions / Strong season
Rizzi razzle dazzles crowd
AP Photo
No. 10 Syracuse University continues to shock NCAA fans. ESPN BRACKET STANDINGS (As of Monday, March 28) 1: EJ Paras (LTV) Points: 700 Projected Points Remaining: 640 Percent Correct: 69.2% 2: Sean Reis (The Signal) Points: 690 Projected Points Remaining: 480 Percent Correct: 66.2% 3: Otto Gomez (LTV) Points: 580 Projected Points Remaining: 160 Percent Correct: 33.2% 4: Michael Battista (The Signal) Points: 480 Projected Points Remaining: 0 Percent Correct: 12.8%
Photo courtesy of the Sports Information Desk
Junior Ben Varone gets on base.
continued from page 24
Joe Cirillo would get the win for the Lions, going seven innings with only three earned runs. The right-hander earned himself eight strikeouts (SO) during his time on the mound, bringing his total SOs to 19 on the season. The pitching staff was one of the highlights of the game, with the relief pitchers taking the ball and shutting down Alvernia for the rest of the game. Senior pitcher Eric Teasdale took the mound after Cirillo, going one and one-third innings with two SOs. Sophomore pitcher Matt Curry only needed to face two batters, striking
out both, to finish up the game. On the offensive side, Roberts had an impressive game, going 2-for-3 with a home run in the first to get the Lions started on the board. During the following inning, Roberts stepped up to the plate again, this time roping a single to right field in the second, scoring Rizzi and Varone. The Lions offense was on display again during their game against Ursinis College on Thursday, March 26. With 15 hits total in the game, the Lions earned the “W” with a final score of 7-4. Once again, the College got on the board early, scoring two runs in the second inning. Sophomore infielder Zachary Shindler started the scoring off with a double to right-center. Varone sent Shindler to home with a single to the right. Rizzi, who has been an offensive asset for the Lions, stepped in the box and hit a rocket in the middle, scoring Gearhart. Sophomore pitcher Brandon Zachary earned his second win of the season, going six innings and only giving up two runs. The young right-hander struck out six batters during the game. The Lions look to continue their eight-game winning streak during the week of Sunday, March, 27, with a games against Widener University on Tuesday, March, 29, Haverford University on Wednesday, March 31, and Kean University on Saturday, April 2.
March 30, 2016 The Signal page 19 Cheap Seats
MLB / The 2016 season will be a home run continued from page 24
percentage/slugging) to complement his 20 home runs and 39 steals — he is a dark horse candidate for 2016’s National League (NL) MVP award. With one less steal and standing seven inches shorter than the 6’1’’ Pollock, Jose Altuve had a “down year” in 2015, sporting a slash line of .313/.353/.459. Nonetheless, the short-statured second baseman was the leader of a youthful Houston Astros squad that made a shocking playoff appearance after countless years of last-place finishes. Accompanying Altuve is American League Rookie of the Year Carlos Correa, as well as the budding George Springer. Houston’s impressive 2015 showing should give this homer-hitting lineup plenty of confidence coming into this season and with playoff experience under their belts, an NL pennant is not out of the question. While Arizona and Houston show much promise, there is no team more hyped for 2016 than the Chicago Cubs. Although the team failed to live up to “Back to the Future Part II’s” 2015 World Series prophecy, the Cubbies still showed some movie magic by reaching the NL Championship Series with an assortment of players that most fans had never heard of before. Under the guidance of eccentric skipper Joe Maddon, young Cubs Anthony Rizzo, Jake Arrieta and Kris Bryant have become household names. With the acquisition of Jason Heyward over the offseason, Chicago effectively stripped its division rival St. Louis Cardinals of a high-quality player and cemented itself as the favorite to win it all. Flying under the radar are Heyward’s former employers. The Cards have had an entire offseason to recover from a myriad of injuries that still did not stop them from owning the MLB’s best regular season record in 2015. Cardinal outfielders Randal Grichuk and Stephen Piscotty are the best young, unknown sluggers and will soon be making their way into water cooler talk. Also going unnoticed are the New York Yankees, whose recent stint of stinginess has kept them out of the spotlight. Yet, they now boast the league’s best bullpen after acquiring fireball pitcher Aroldis Chapman. The
AP Photo
The Cleveland Indians are a team that MLB fans will be paying attention to this season. Yanks also improved their offense by replacing mediocre infielder Stephen Drew with the sterling Starlin Castro. But the league’s best-kept secret is the Cleveland Indians’s front-end starting rotation — Corey Kluber, Carlos Carrasco and Danny Salazar. Each pitcher posted an earned run average under 3.70 in 2015. The Indians also boast another terrific trio, consisting of hitters Michael Brantley, Francisco Lindor and Jason Kipnis, who each compiled a batting average over .300 last season. However, this outside thinking may be all for naught, as 2016 is an even year, so the ’10, ’12 and ’14 World Serieswinning San Francisco Giants will probably take home the championship yet again. Personally, I am more excited for this MLB season
than any that have preceded it. We are witnessing an age of extreme talent and athleticism in baseball, headlined by Mike Trout, Bryce Harper and Giancarlo Stanton. While the sport does not stimulate the viewer’s eye as effectively as it did in the juiced-up early 2000s, fans can take solace in the fact that baseball is now a relatively clean sport and it is being played at a level of natural human capacity that is unparalleled to MLB’s past. Now is the perfect time to become a fan, as today’s top dogs will likely still be the best players in the sport for the next five (or maybe even 10) years. Oozing in player ability and invigorated by near league-wide parity, expectations and predictions are boundless for the 2016 season. Baseball is back, people — join in on the craze.
Track
Track / Lions race to the top
Quality • Value • Location
Discounts on Tuition & Housing May 16 - June 27 (6 weeks) May 16 - July 27 (10 weeks) June 29 - August 10 (6 weeks) Internships & Independent Studies (12 weeks) Photo courtesy of the Sports Information Desk
The team is looking forward to the rest of the outdoor season.
continued from page 24
really good about my performance in the 400-meter race. To get a personal best in my first meet is awesome and I’m excited for the rest of the season.” Senior Laron Day added another top finish for the Lions, securing the win in the 400-meter hurdles with a time of 57.73. Noah also contributed to a first-place victory in the 4x400-meter relay alongside his freshman twin brother, Nathan Osterhus, and classmates Kamal Williams and Day. The Lions clocked in with a time of 3:22. “I feel good about the 4x400-meter relay performance,” Noah said. “We always go for the win and we got that and I’m excited
for more relays. It’s awesome being on the same relay team as my brother. You don’t see a lot of track twins on the same relay, especially in college.” After the performances this past Saturday, the men’s and women’s track and field teams are off to a promising outdoor season. “Our team focus was less focused on times or place for this meet and more on getting a feel for how outdoor meets will run and getting back into the swing of competition,” Randolph said. “But we had some great performances and I am looking forward to seeing what we all can do at our next meet and throughout the season.”
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page 20 The Signal March 30, 2016
March 30, 2016 The Signal page 21 Softball
Softball has trouble remaining consistent Team displays weak offense, goes 1-2 in the week
Photo courtesy of Sports Information Desk
Hourihan pitches a solid game against Muhlenberg College.
By Miguel Gonzalez Sports Assistant
During the week of March 21, the Lions scrambled to find consistency as they won three games while conceding three losses during their home opener matches at Dr. June Walker Field. In the same week, freshman infielder/ outfielder Jess Santelli earned her second New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) rookie player of the week honor for her overall stellar seasonal performance, which includes a .387 batting average with 24 hits. Along with
Santelli’s accomplishments, the team itself has had its fair share of success during the beginning of the season. On the road in Allentown, Pa., the Lions tamed the Muhlenberg College Mules with a two-game doubleheader sweep with scores of 5-1 and 5-3. Tied, 1-1, in the top of the seventh inning, senior infielder Steph Vuono hit a sacrifice bunt to allow senior infielder Deanna Utter to score. The Lions later extended their lead to 5-1 with runs by sophomore infielder Cathy Drury, Vuono and Santelli. In the midst,
sophomore pitcher Sam Platt held the Mules to only one run and five hits. The Lions soon followed later in the day with a 5-3 victory. Locked in a 3-3 tie in the top of the sixth inning, freshman infielder/outfielder Daniella Marino was able to reach home plate when senior outfielder Kristen Fitzsimmons hit a fly out to right field. The Lions added an additional run in the subsequent inning when freshman outfielder Gaby Bennett scored from a single. Senior pitcher Katie Hourihan finished the match by
forcing two groundouts. Despite the roaring enthusiasm of the home crowd, the Lions were scorched by the Red Dragons from the State University of New York (SUNY) at Cortland in 3-1 and 7-3 losses. In the first match, the Lions only managed to score one run at the bottom of the first inning when Vuono scored from a single. Meanwhile, the Red Dragons’s junior pitcher Alexandrea Flint and freshman pitcher Sam Van Dorm limited the Lions to four hits. Afterward, the Lions surrendered another loss to the Red Dragons. With the Lions holding on to a 3-2 lead until the top of the sixth inning, the Red Dragons reclaimed the lead when sophomore catcher Jamie Corradina and sophomore outfielder Allissa De Padua scored off a double. The Red Dragons followed up with three additional runs in the seventh inning. In the midst of the Red Dragons’s hitting rampage, the Lions were not able to respond with another run. “We need consistency, from the freshman to the upperclassmen. They can’t give up mental and physical errors in tough situations,” head coach Sally Miller said. On Saturday, March 26, the Lions split their doubleheader series with the Ithaca College Bombers with a 6-4 loss and a 2-1 win.
With the Lions grasping onto a narrow 1-0 lead, the Bombers burst four hits and six runs to create a 6-1 lead. In the bottom of the seventh inning, the Lions rallied when Vuono slammed a double and allowed senior catcher Jamie Purcell, sophomore infielder Jess Stevenson and sophomore outfielder Madison Levine to score. Despite the runs, the Lions were not able to tie the game up. With a three-game losing streak behind them, the Lions captured a close 2-1 victory against the Bombers. Hourihan dominated with eight strikeouts and only surrendered three hits. In the meantime, the Lions were able to pull away with two separate runs in the second and fourth innings. The Bombers attempted a comeback in the seventh inning when freshman infielder Hannah Anderson blasted a solo home run. Senior pitcher Ashtin Helmer responded with two strikeouts to secure the victory. “Katie pitched great,” Miller said. “The defense were on their toes. Ashtin came in clutch and shut the bombers down in 17 pitches.” The Lions continue their home stand with a doubleheader against the Cabrini College Cavaliers on Wednesday, March 26. Next Saturday, April 2, the Lions will face their first NJAC opponent in a doubleheader against the William Paterson University Pioneers.
Cheap Seats
WWE fans await the night filled with surprises By Azhane Fleming Correspondent As the wrestle maniacs are gearing up for Wrestlemania 32 on Sunday, April 3, in Dallas, it’s hard not to try to predict exactly what the night will bring. Last year, World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) gave fans a long-awaited debut match from Sting and Seth Rollins’s first World Heavyweight Championship win. Wrestlemania 31 also received highly positive reviews from critics and was reported as the highest-grossing WWE event ever held. How will Wrestlemania 32 live up to the hype this year? Will it deliver to fans a memorable show on the grandest stage of them all? Major superstars like John Cena, Randy Orton and Rollins will all be missing the show due to injuries, along with smaller talents who have been sidelined over the past few months. As the top stars on WWE’s main roster, it’s hard to think of a Wrestlemania without the three superstars, especially since Cena has been a part of every show since his debut at Wrestlemania XX and remains the face of the WWE, even in his absence. Rollins was literally on a roll in the company, proving himself to be a top dog and one of this era’s most amazing heels — or bad guy, in wrestling terminology — on
the main roster before his injury was announced. While Orton had been involved in many feuds before his injury, fans were hoping to see a match between Orton and Brock Lesnar. Instead, Lesnar will be facing Dean Ambrose in a No Holds Barred match. A surprise comeback at Wrestlemania from any of the three superstars will be loved and appreciated by the fans, especially since there has been heavy debate about whether or not the already-announced matches will deliver both entertainment and engrossing storylines. Wrestlemania will feature main event matches — Triple H vs. Roman Reigns for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship and Shane McMahon vs. The Undertaker, with McMahon gaining control of WWE’s headline show, Monday Night RAW, if he pulls off a win. Charlotte (whose real name is Ashley Fliehr) will also be defending her WWE Divas Championship title against Becky Lynch and crowd favorite Sasha Banks. Charlotte is owning her new image as an entertaining heel with her microphone skills and her athleticism. This, combined with the crowd’s love for Banks, has made Lynch the underdog and she will have a lot to prove if she wants to stand out in the ring with these two ladies. This will also be the first in-ring match at Wrestlemania for the three NXT,
AP Photo
Wrestlemania is going to be filled with matches that fans will enjoy. WWE’s developmental branch, alumnae. The Divas Division has definitely proven that women can entertain just as well as the men can, with the whole idea of the Divas revolution and the talent on the Divas roster. Another Divas match would have been great to watch at Wrestlemania this year, considering the roll the division has been on lately. There are also a list of other matches, including Kalisto vs. Ryback for the United States Title. The teams of The New Day vs. League of Nations for the WWE Tag Team Championship, Jimmy and Jey
Uso vs. The Dudley Boyz and the third annual Andre the Giant Battle Royals that fans are hoping will deliver. A ladder match for the intercontinental championship was also recently announced, giving fans the chance to see Dolph Ziggler, Stardust, Zack Ryder, Sin Cara, Kevin Owens, Sami Zayn and The Miz battle it out on the Wrestlemania stage. Even with mixed reviews, WWE still promises fans an entertaining night. If past Wrestlemanias can prove one thing, it’s that there are always surprises.
page 22 The Signal March 30, 2016
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4 6
LIONS
March 30, 2016 The Signal page 23
AROUND THE
DORM 5 3
Kevin Luo “The Ref”
Otto Gomez
Matthew Ajaj
Staff Writer
Staff Writer
Miguel Gonzalez Sports Assitant
In this week’s edition of Around the Dorm, the “Ref,” Kevin Luo, asks our panel of experts three questions: Who was the Most Valuable Player (MVP) during the NCAA Tournament’s first weekend? Who is the best pro prospect for the NBA Draft and who should the Broncos look to take up the quarterback (QB) position?
1. Who was the MVP of the first weekend of the NCAA Tournament? Matthew: The opening weekend certainly gave credence to the March Madness name and one of the most unlikely sources of said madness came from Stephen F. Austin State University’s (SFA) Thomas Walkup. The No. 14 Lumberjacks were matched up against the formidable No. 3 West Virginia Mountaineers and it was up to SFA’s senior leader, Walkup, to take the reins. He did just that, sinking 19 -of -20 free throws and going for a total of 33 points to register the mega-upset win against one of the best defenses in the nation. Two days later, SFA was felled by a heartbreaking last-second tip-in at the hands of Notre Dame, but not before Walkup totaled 54 points on 13of-28 shooting over the course of the weekend. The auburn-bearded wonder has immediately gone from an unknown to an underdog icon over the course of three days — that is the true beauty of March Madness. Otto: It has to be University of Oregon shooting guard Buddy Hield. The leading
AP Photo
candidate in the John Wooden Award race, presented annually to the outstanding collegiate basketball Player of the Year, continued his excellent play into the Elite Eight as he
finished with 37 points. Oklahoma is a team that heavily relies on its starters, especially Hield. No other team depends on its star more, making him not only the best player
in the tournament, but also the most valuable. Miguel: For a player who allegedly looks like Republican candidate Ted Cruz and behaves like former Blue Devil Christian Laettner, sophomore guard Grayson Allen is one-of-a-kind. He propelled the team’s victory against UNC Wilmington with an astounding 15-for-17 free throw performance and 23 points. He’s in the crowd, the sidelines and even in the broadcasting booth with sportscaster Dick Vitale. Grayson then proceeded to outwit the Yale Bulldogs in the Round of 32. Allen blazed on the wood floor in the first half, as he scored 22 points with 8-for-11 shooting along with four threepointers. Also, Allen provided sturdy defense… especially after tripping sophomore point guard Makai Mason. Allen had the gritty defense to withhold opponents to less than 70 points. Aside from his stellar performance, he does falter by conceding turnovers. Even though Duke eventually lost to Oregon on Thursday, March 24, Allen definitely made his presence in the spotlight.
Otto gets 3 points for Buddy’s amazing play. Miguel gets 2 points for the Grayson Allen-Ted Cruz joke and Matthew gets 1 point because SFA didn’t make it through the weekend.
AP Photo
2. Who is the third best prospect for the upcoming NBA Draft? (Assuming Simmons and Ingram are 1-2) Matthew: Why not Oklahoma Sooners senior Hield? Sportingnews.com’s college player of the year is pumping out over 25 points per
game and continues to lead the way for one of the nation’s best teams. Hield has made refinements to his game with each passing season, but his senior year leap was his most profound, improving his free throw percentage by 6 percent and his three-point percentage by
a whopping 10 percent. Any team would be ecstatic to draft a complete guard with leaderlike qualities and the desire to get better. Otto: The general consensus on the third overall prospect right now seems to be Dragan Bender, a 7’1” stud athlete from Croatia. Not only does he have the best name in the draft, but he has the best physical attributes, as he weighs in at 220 pounds with a 7’2” wingspan. If you think that he’s a carbon copy of former Serbian basketball player Darko Miličić, I understand. But I think Bender is more athletic and a lot more fluid in his motion, as well as just overall stronger and a better athlete. Regardless, no one in the draft has his size mixed with such an incredible offensive and defensive upside. He may be former Latvian basketball player Kristaps Porzingis or he may be Miličić. We don’t really know because we see almost nothing of Bender, which is exactly the reason he’s so high on so many boards. Miguel: Mr. Luo, you definitely are good
with picking future draft busts if you believe Ben Simmons is a top NBA prospect. They usually perform well in the NCAA Tournament and achieve higher than 2.0 GPAs to qualify for the John Wooden Award. Senior guard Hield is the best NBA prospect — not the third. He is a leader on and off the court. Instead of being a typical one-and-done player, Hield has stayed loyal to the Sooners and developed his scoring consistency. He is more seasoned than rare-cooked beef served with red cherry wine on a romantic night in Paris. Hield averaged 25.1 points this season and ignited the tourney. He can drop over 30 point performances against caliber teams such as Virginia Commonwealth University and Oregon. Also, he spreads the love we all need to grind through the day on Twitter. He is fresh to death and more than prepared to handle the rigor of NBA competition. Maybe he will suppress Blake Griffin’s legacy as the all-time Oklahoma great.
Otto gets 3 points for talking about Bender. Matthew gets 2 points for talking about the successes of Buddy and Miguel gets 1 point for trying to question my basketball knowledge. 3. What should the Denver Broncos do with the QB position, and who will be their Week 1 starter? Matthew: The near-downfall of the Broncos last season was the team’s QB play. For a defense as dominant as Denver’s, all the QB has to do is be a game manager and not turn the ball over. There is one man on the market that would guarantee success — Ryan Fitzpatrick. With the New York Jets doing their very best to low-ball their successful 2015 starting quarterback, it would not be shocking to see Fitzpatrick grow sick of Gang Green’s petty games and sign on with Denver. After winning Super Bowl 50, Broncos owner John Elway is fully aware of the small window he has left to grab another ring. Fitzpatrick would make Denver the Super Bowl favorite and that type of offer is something that no one could refuse. Otto: Without a doubt, the Broncos are in one of the most difficult positions in NFL history. While some think that they will do fine without a decent QB due to their elite defense, those people are wrong. A team needs a strong QB for the entire regular season, but the playoffs are different. Losing quarterback Brock
Osweiler was a big blow to the organization and it’s one that is going to be hard to come back from. While I wish they could get a big name like QB Colin Kaepernick, I don’t they will be able to. They signed Mark Sanchez and I predict him to be the Week 1 starter. He’ll be average, hopefully even above average, but remember, I think someone as explosive as Kaepernick with a great defense motivating him would do wonders in Denver. Miguel: The Broncos will train Sanchez to adapt to head coach Gary Kubiak’s stretch run play system. The team does not have many options. Peyton Manning, Osweiler and Tim Tebow are out. Many NFL teams are pursuing their lifelong high school crush, Kaepernick. The question is not whether or not Sanchez will be sacked constantly, but rather whether or not Sanchez will work with the Broncos’s offense of wide receivers Demaryuis Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders. The Broncos cannot win the game if Sanchez cannot throw it down the end zone. If Sanchez fails, then the Broncos should invest in developing a QB and tanking should be the last option. Broncos fans will need to be patient during this transition.
Matthew gets 3 points for suggesting Fitzpatrick. Otto gets 2 points for Kaepernick and Miguel gets 1 point for even bringing up the idea of the Broncos tanking.
Otto wins Around the Dorm 8-6-4.
AP Photo
Signal
Sports
The winning Lions extend to eight straight By Jessica Ganga Sports Editor
The crowd held on to their seats. The baseball team felt the pressure and intensity of the game. With 10 innings played, the Lions needed to break out in the 11th to win. Wham. Senior catcher Matt Facas blew the game wide open for the College on Saturday, March 26, against Franklin & Marshall College (F&M) in the second game of the doubleheader that day. With the dramatic win against F&M, the team improved its overall record to 13-1 on the season. The Lions continued their hot streak by picking up three wins last week and they don’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon. During the first game of the F&M doubleheader, the Lions jumped out early to take the lead in the first inning. Senior outfielder John Rizzi got the Lions on the board with a leadoff double. Senior outfielder Pat Roberts smacked the ball into right field, sending Rizzi home. Rizzi stepped up again in the second inning of the game by slapping a single to right field, scoring juniors infielder Alex Christian and catcher CJ Gearhart and bringing the score up, 3-0. Senior pitcher Steven Volpe tossed his second complete game
Roberts has strong offensive performances during the week’s games for the Lions.
of the season, going all seven inning and allowing only one run to score in the seventh. In the electrifying afternoon game against F&M, the Lions started out slow. The College trailed F&M, 5-1, after the second inning, but in the third, sophomore Patrick Anderson cut the deficit to 5-3 when he scored sophomore outfielder Mike Follet on a double.
The Lions tied the game up in a thrilling sixth inning, scoring three runs and evening the score at 8. All the runs scored by the College were unearned. After sending junior infielder Ben Varone home, Roberts advanced to second on a wild pitch. On the same pitch, Rizzi, who was on third, darted toward home and scored the tying run. Both teams had a back and
forth for the rest of the game, with the Lions losing their lead in the bottom of the eighth and again in the bottom of the tenth. The 11th inning was the last, with the College breaking out and scoring a total of six runs, taking advantage of mistakes made by the F&M defense, to take the commanding lead. Anderson singled and advanced to second on an error in right field.
Track races its way to top victories
Photo courtesy of the Sports Information Desk
Meagan McGourty posts an impressive time in the 100-meter hurdles. By Nicole DeStefano Staff Writer
The College’s track and field teams traveled to Pomona, N.J., for the Stockton Invitational on Saturday, March 26. The team’s first meet of the outdoor season was filled with first-place victories, top performances and personal bests. The women had a strong showing
Lions’s Lineup March 30, 2016
I n s i d e
with five first-place finishes and several top performances. Senior Kristen Randolph sprinted to a first-place finish in the 400-meter hurdles. She clocked in with a time of 1:07.72. “I was very happy with my performance this weekend,” Randolph said. “Having not been able to run in the outdoor season last year due to injury, I was anxious to get back out there and race
the hurdles. I had no expectations heading into the race — I was just hoping to get a solid start to the season.” Senior Joy Spriggs put forth a firstplace victory in the 400-meter race, finishing with a time of 59.65. On the field, senior Courtney Paciulli landed a first-place finish in the long jump with a leap measured at 4.96 meters, while freshman Erin McHugh threw a distance of 37.14 meters, placing first in the javelin in her collegiate debut. “I think the women’s team has set themselves up for a great outdoor season,” Randolph said. “The conditions were less than ideal this weekend with a lot of wind and chilly temperatures, but everyone had a great attitude and went after their events and the competition.” On the men’s side, freshman Noah Osterhus dominated the 400-meter race. He finished in first place with an impressive time of 49.72. “My goal coming into the meet was to win the 400 — I just had to go out and compete and do it,” Noah said. “I feel see TRACK page 19
Photo courtesy of the Sports Information Desk
Freshman infielder Tom McCarthy came home from third to score. McCarthy’s run would be the eventual game winner. Facas secured the win for the team with a two-run single. Earlier in the week on Wednesday, March 23, the Lions triumphed over Alvernia University at home, 5-3. Sophomore pitcher see LIONS page 18
MLB’s must-watch in the new season By Matthew Ajaj Staff Writer As the days begin lasting longer and the weather is getting warmer, baseball season is inching ever so closer. The world’s greatest game is about to get even greater — this season, the MLB is infused with more dominant young talent than ever before and parity is prevalent, as at least 20 teams have a realistic shot at the title. The Arizona Diamondbacks are one of those teams. After failing to make the playoffs last year, the D-Backs rattled the free agency market by adding 2015 Cy Young-snub Zack Greinke to the squad, as well as trading for AllStar pitcher Shelby Miller and shortstop Jean Segura. At the heart of Arizona’s batting order is superstar first baseman Paul Goldschmidt, but the hottest name in the Grand Canyon State is A.J. Pollock. A five-tool player, Pollock is coming off an outstanding season, slashing .315/.367/.498 (batting average/on base see MLB page 19
46 53 Around the Dorm page 23
Lacrosse page 18
Softball page 21
Cheap Seats Page 21
The Singal
Breaking hearts, necks and more at wewanttheRatback.org Vol. 3.14, No. 159
LOL, it’s a goose April 1, 1885
Kicking names and taking ass since 1885
S-Day is upon us, run fo yo lives Traditions is rat-infested By Master Splinter Corratspondent
Photo courtesy of Jared Sokoloff
The squirrel population on campus has recently rebelled against the absurd amount of construction projects.
By Sandy Cheeks Resident Texan Land Creature
In an unprecedented turn of events, campus construction has come to a complete halt, effective immediately. According to College spokesperson Scrat IceAge, the squirrel population on campus has overrun current projects in development, making further construction impossible. Squirrel Rebellion 2K16 had only just begun on Thursday, March 24, yet
the animals have already completely taken over both the Brower Student Center and STEM Building projects. “This is madness,” senior rodentologist major Maximus Kwirl said. “I never imagined S-Day would happen so soon.” While the animals have also attacked the pipe replacement project, students have reported squirrel domination sightings in residence halls, the library, Kendall Hall and the Education Building. According to Rooty Nuts, director
of Mammal Life on campus, not only is this invasion the first of its kind, but this is also the first time that construction has not taken place since the College’s establishment. “It’s a big issue, them squirrels,” Nuts said. “But the bigger problem is the quietness on campus from the lack of drilling.” Nuts explained that the squirrels should return to their natural bark habitat soon, but until they do, construction will remain at a standstill.
The new on-campus restaurant in the Brower Student Center, Traditions, received a record number of customers on Thursday, March 24, yet the clientele was quite different from what the restaurant normally sees. Traditions is home to a new type of patron — rats. These hungry customers came in swarms during Meal Equivalency to gnaw on some of the delectable food remnants left on the floor by messy eaters. According to a rat named Remy, the students and rodents of the College have him to thank for the quality menu. Chef Karl Ratz heard about Remy’s success as a chef in France and brought Remy to the College to do what he does best: hide under Ratz’s hat and help him come up with the creations featured in Traditions’s menu. “I’m really the brains of the operation,” Remy said. Since the restaurant has been such a success, Remy invited his east-coast friends to try some of his food. A friend of Remy and resident of the College, Reggie, likes Traditions, but thinks there is something missing “We were displaced from the Rathskeller when it closed a few months back and eager for a new place to grab some grub and listen to music,” Reggie said, while munching on a chip from his favorite meal, Irish Nachos. “This place really has it all, except live performances.” Reggie hopes that one day he will get to perform in the restaurant with his band, the Rat Pack.
Killed cow causes Kanye secured for Spring Lecture campus chaos Rapper set to declare prezidential run By Cr@zy Benjamin$ Yo Mom
By Ben Solo Darth Vader Fanboy
By the dim lights of tiki torches and the blasting of Rihanna’s “Bitch Better Have My Money,” the Super Fun Brigade (SFB) slaughtered the once thought-to-be mythical cash cow that had supplied them with this year’s $1.8 million Student Activities Fee in a solemn ceremony held on Quimby’s Prairie on Friday, March 25. The cow, which was reportedly named Barbara after President Gitenstein, was discovered by a Singal reporter earlier this school year while SFB members were seen milking it for funds behind the Green Farmhouse. “The Kanye spring lecture really took a lot out of Barb,” Executive Director of SFB Buck Johnson said. “We knew that we really couldn’t get much out of her after that and after CUB (College Uber Board) presented for those stupid bus trips.” With one strong clean strike of an axe, Johnson killed the domestic farm animal. After the deed had been settled, more than 200 organizations that students never hear about during the school year scrambled to salvage whatever they could from the slayed beast. “We’ll get a new one next year, it’s no big deal,” Johnson said. “Although we may want to choose a more clever hiding space than a farmhouse.”
Following multiple delays, the Student Finance Board (SFB) allocated funds to the College Union Board (CUB) to secure Kanye West for the College’s Spring Lecture on Wednesday, April 20, in Kendall Hall. West’s stop at the College would be part of an upcoming tour during which he will travel to college campuses across the country. However, the tour’s performances will not showcase the artist’s music. Instead, each college privileged to witness West’s “Return to University Tour” will have its own one-hour lecture — not including time for expected off-topic rants. As an insightful prelude to “The Life of Pablo Tour,” West hopes to further impact the lives of the next generation. “I represent the dreamers,” West tweeted. “The dreams will actualize. The dreams will manifest.” The show will feature speeches from the rapper, as well as an interlude during which students will have the pleasure
AP Photo
CUB also claims Taylor Swift will join West on stage for the lecture.
of watching West live tweet. Following the lecture, there will also be an intimate Q&A session during which West will look into Kim Kardashian’s solid gold makeup mirror to ask himself questions to answer.
The Spring Lecture is sure to be an egotistical and narcissistic night not to miss. Maybe West will even bring Waka Flocka Flame back to the College for “420” — no one actually knows or has any idea of what to expect.
INDEX: Nation & World / Page 5 Editorial / Look for yourself Opinions / IDK Features / You so lazy right now? Arts & Entertainment / Just open the paper Sports / Who cares The Singal @tcnjsingal
Free tuition The Git approves lots of funding for y’all
Campus Town PRC asks for a redo, project to be torn down and started over
Sex scandal Muha and snowman have heated love affair
See inside, I guess
See inside somewhere
See your dreams
page up your ass The Singal April 1, 1892
Creatures
Sanders rally causes political unrest on campus
Left: tcnj.edu, Right: AP Photo
Left: Disappointed with the candidates, Gitenstein decides to join the presidential race. Right: Sanders holds a rally on campus that ends with a riot. By Political Paul Your Neighborhood Reporter
Presidential candidate Bernie Sanders spoke at the College on Saturday, March 26, since he has garnered a large following of college-aged voters recently. The political event was therefore held outside on the football field and attracted over half of the student body. A number of students showed up to the event wearing “Birdie Sanders” T-shirts, a reference to Sanders’s Oregon rally last week where a small bird flew onto Bernie’s podium. The incident caused the Oregon crowd to erupt in cheers and sparked a viral meme of the candidate instantaneously. Judging by the number of students donning Bernie apparel at
the event, the Democratic candidate seems to be a hit with students here at the College, as well. “It’s so cool that Bernie’s here,” one stoner said. “He wants to make college free for everyone in America, so how can you not vote for that? He also has a pretty dope slogan.” Still, not everyone at the College was feeling the Bern that day. A surprisingly large group of Trump supporters attended the event simply to protest. Unlike Bernie’s supporters, who dressed in light-hearted apparel, the Trump voters showed their support for the racist Republican candidate by dressing in Ku Klux Klan attire — white hat and all. Naturally, things got heated quite quickly. Students at both ends of the political spectrum
started derogatory chants regarding the opposing candidate. The event ended in a not-sopeaceful riot, much like many of Trump’s recent rallies, and Campus Police were called to break up the debacle. “I had class, so I showed up an hour late and it was over,” junior political science major Bill Smith said. “I’m really bummed I didn’t get to show off my new KKK outfit.” Trump supporters on a low budget decided to stick to the basics and simply donned “Make America great again” hats and Tshirts to the event. “I think Trump has a lot of really good ideas, you know?” Smith said. “He wants to build a wall between the U.S. and Mexico. It’ll keep out the illegals and
we’ll finally get to show China we’re better than them by having the biggest wall in the world.” The political unrest brought about at the rally that day clearly divided the College, forcing President R. Barbara Gitenstein to address the student body via email the following day. “I’m really disappointed in you all,” Gitenstein wrote. “Let’s be honest, all the presidential candidates running suck and we should just start over. I’ve been president of the College for 17 years now, so I think I’m ready to run a country. Vote Gitenstein 2016.” Gitenstein then launched her own official campaign through the College’s website and asked all students to donate some of their tuition money to help fund
the campaign. But it seems students weren’t “Down with Git” either. A new hashtag took over social media that night: #Eve2016. That’s right — the beloved Eickhoff Dining Hall worker who can always be seen with a smile on her face appears to have a stronger following than the Git herself. Eve Cruz then took to Facebook to thank the students for their continued support, “Ha... I can’t believe y’all want me to be president. I love my kids and I’ll do whatever they think is best.” Cruz has apparently rallied most of the College community in her favor, Republicans and Democrats alike, but Gitenstein is not backing down. The two are set to debate in Kendall Hall on Thursday, April 1.
Singal delivery boy kidnapped by Manhunt Club
By the Manhunt Masons Give us your money or else
TCNJ Manhunt, notorious for various NERF games and Humans vs. Zombies, has reached a new level of shenanigans with their latest endeavor: kidnapping The Singal’s delivery boy. Michael Battista, sports editor of The Singal, was kidnapped on Monday, March 28, by members of TCNJ Manhunt. He was entering the Brower Student Center to deliver papers when he was jumped by the group, dressed in all black with headbands. Witnesses say the mob attacked Battista with NERF swords and blasters and effectively tied him up with orange bands. Junior English major and spokesperson for the club, Kristina Malmstrom, has stated that they have hidden Battista in a secret location where he will never be discovered. “We have scoured every inch of this campus throughout our weekly manhunt games. There are places that only we know about,” Malmstrom said. According to Malmstrom, TCNJ Manhunt will only release Battista if their demands are met. The club is allegedly acting out in response to the current chaotic state of the campus. Mitch Vaughn, senior biology major and president of TCNJ Manhunt, stated, “We are demanding construction fences be taken down, so we may freely
Photo Courtesy of Mitchell Vaughn
TCNJ Manhunt is known on campus for its weekly shenanigans.
roam across campus, that storage space be provided to clubs, and while we are at it, we are demanding additional reading days for finals.” When questioned about Manhunt’s choice of target, Mitch responded, “Michael Battista is well-known and loved by the campus community for delivering The Singal each week, and targeting someone who controls TCNJ’s media will help get our message out.” This Manhunt heist has been in the works for years, according to former
Manhunt President and TCNJ alumna Jonathan Vanderhoof. “We had discussed pulling this off for years at our E-Board meetings, but I never thought the plan would actually come to fruition,” Vanderhoof said. Students of the College were not surprised by the kidnapping. “You can tell they’re all really serious about what they do,” junior biology major Erin McCluskey said. “It kind of doesn’t surprise me that something like this happened. Apparently, this isn’t the first time
they’ve crossed paths with Campus Police. I doubt it’ll be their last.” Campus Police confirmed that they have dealt with TCNJ Manhunt previously for other heinous incidents. Four years ago, the club was caught in the process of kidnapping a mannequin. A stop sign was knocked over in the police’s quick response, and the students were all dealt with fiercely by the police chief. The perpetrators were eventually all let go with a warning, as Campus Police did not have enough handcuffs to arrest them all. It is unclear how Campus Police will react to this latest Manhunt scandal. Many in the College community hope that Campus Police have enough handcuffs this time to arrest all members involved in the kidnapping. TCNJ Manhunt is an active club that runs games such as Humans vs. Zombies and Color Vampire on campus, in addition to their weekly manhunt games on Friday nights. According to Malmstrom, the club hopes that its actions will be seen favorably by peers in the College community. The Manhunt Club members then hope to continue their normal activities on campus after the incident is resolved. Every day, students at the College are anxiously awaiting a response from President R. Barbara Gitenstein or Campus Police regarding the organization’s ransom demands.
April 1, 2069 The Singal page poop
Farts & Entertainment
Pope Francis unveils ‘Twenty One Pulpits’
Left: Twenty One Pilots joins forces with the Catholic Church. Right: The leaked single marks the Pope’s second musical release. By Ben Solo Darth Vader Fanboy “My name’s Blurryface and I care what you think,” the frontman (out of two measly members) from the pretentious, sellout alternative band Twenty One Pilots Tyler Joseph sings in the band’s hit “Stressed Out.” And Joseph really cared what you — his 12-year-old fans — thought because, in an effort to be one step closer to the God he thinks he is, Joseph and lesser band member Josh Dunn have teamed up with Pope Francis to form an unprecedented ska band rumored to be known as “Twenty One Pulpits.” According to the rumors from Catholic
Ska Monthly, the band was originally supposed to go by “Twenty One Puppets,” but the Roman Catholic Church went over the Pope’s head and said that would be “too much subliminal messaging.” The band supposedly formed after Twenty One Pilots started performing a cover of “Salve Regina” from the Pope’s debut album “Wake Up!,” and the Pope’s manager, Saint Jimmy, reached out to Joseph via God burning a bush in his front yard. However, I think Joseph jumped to conclusions because God doesn’t actually give two fucks about Twenty One Pilots. Nonetheless, the connection was somehow made because the band’s first single was leaked to SoundCloud on Friday, April 1, and I must say, the
art that these three talents have created was almost as believable as God’s actual existence. The untitled single sounded like an edgier Sublime because Twenty One Pulpits are too cool for Sunday school. The Pope’s background vocals were also an amazing addition. Although, you could barely understand what in God’s name the Pope was trying to sing. The mumbled lyrics were like an Argentinian Fetty Wap, which I imagine mainstream music will sensationalize for as long as Catholicism might continue to be practiced. According to the leaked track’s SoundCloud description, the single will be included on the band’s yet-to-be-completed
AP Photos
album, “The Revival of Ska and (More Importantly) the Revival of Religion” centered around the Pope’s desparate message for Catholics to “please start going to church again.” Ironically, though, the album is rumored to feature shitty EDM-sinners DVBBS, Steve Aoki and The Chainsmokers, but I think the Pope’s message will be heard loud and clear over the generic synths. I only hope that the rumors are true and I have faith that the leaked psalm I have heard was real — but then again, I said the same thing when I was a young child first learning about the Nine Commandments, the Virgin Maria and her daughter, Jesus Christ.
‘Family Guy’ makes its live-action debut Quahog set to receive a real-life makeover By Joey Xicchino He Doesn’t Even Go Here
The comedic hijinks that take place in the fictitious town of Quahog, R.I., just got real. Seth MacFarlane, creator of the animated sitcom “Family Guy,” announced over the weekend that Peter and the rest of the Griffins will be getting the live-action treatment later this season. “Everyone likes change, right?
I think now’s a good time to try this out,” MacFarlane said. “They did it with ‘The Wizard of Oz’ and ‘Grease,’ and we’re kind of like that. We’ve had musical numbers in the show before, I just think the only difference is that we’ll be adding comedy, as well.” MacFarlane said that the usual 20- to 23-minute run-time will be bumped up to around 45 minutes in order to set it apart from the animated episodes. Developer David Zuckerman
Moore is slated to play the lovable Peter Griffin.
AP Photo
said that getting a cast together and scheduling rehearsals has been a bit of a challenge thus far, which is why there hasn’t been a new episode of “Family Guy” since “The Heartbreak Dog” aired on Sunday, March 13. “It’s been a hassle up to this point. Some of the actors that we have on the list have other projects going on and want to put more attention towards those things,” Zuckerman said. “This is something that we’ve been tossing around for a while and have had a short list of people in mind, so we’re looking forward to it.” That “short list” of actors features the likes of Kevin James, Peter Dinklage, Craig Robinson and Christina Hendricks. James will be playing handicapped policeman Joe Swanson, Dinklage will star as Stewie Griffin, Robinson will play Cleveland Brown and Hendricks is taking the role of Lois Griffin. Other names include people like director and writer Michael Moore as Peter Griffin and politician Anthony Weiner as Glenn Quagmire. Rounding out the cast is Elden Henson of “The Hunger
AP Photo
The live-action show will feature musical numbers.
Games” fame as Chris Griffin. MacFarlane has said that the role of Meg Griffin has yet to be filled, but the leading candidate is Artie Lange, formerly of “Mad TV,” or “any ugly, frumpy girl from down the street.” “I heard that Seth wanted me to be a part of this project and play Meg. I don’t know whether to take that as a compliment or not, though. My girlish figure does her some justice,” Lange said. “I think it’ll be fun, though. I haven’t done something like
this in a long time.” The plot of the episode isn’t known quite yet, but Zuckerman has acknowledged some problems that may arise during the writing process. “Ask the fans and they’ll tell you that a lot of the humor in the show stems from flashbacks or physical harm done to the characters,” Zuckerman said. “Obviously, we’re limited in what we can physically do to the cast, but we’re going to make it work.”
Singal Sprots
Unholy trio impacting NRG Esports By Ann Pragg eSports Writer
Shaquille O’Neal, Alex Rodriguez and Jimmy Rollins were the latest big names in a growing list of investors in NRG Esports (NRG), a competitive gaming team led by Sacramento Kings co-owners Andy Miller and Mark Mastrov. You read that right: a former NBA superstar, the man that leads the MLB — in both active career home runs and lying to Katie Couric — and a man whose name once meant something to Philadelphia Phillies fans now own a stake in a glorified video game team run by the men behind the totally successful and profitable Sacramento Kings. What could go wrong? This isn’t even satire. NRG announced O’Neal’s involvement on Twitter, while The Daily Dot released a full report on Thursday, March 17. NRG, whose major asset is its fifth place League of Legends team, was looking to get more experienced professionals on staff. “We think they will help legitimize the space,” Miller told The Daily Dot. “There were a lot
of growing pains with the initial launch. Having to mutter under my breath that I owned an eSports team at my aunt’s birthday was my tipping point. Now, whenever cousin Chris calls my team lame, I have Shaq and A-Rod to back me up!” Many reports were skeptical as to how involved these new investors would be in the day-to-day operations. However, The Singal received word that each athlete is putting forth major efforts to contribute. “I was quite impressed with how helpful A-Rod has been throughout this whole process,” Miller said in an exclusive interview with The Singal. “I knew he’d have some wisdom to share, as he was once a young athlete trying to set himself apart from the pack. Still, the way in which he cared for our players was quite surprising.” Upon first setting foot in the NRG gaming house, it was clear that the team’s newest partners had caused major shifts within the team. A pile of prescription vials was the first cause for concern, but Rodriguez quickly assured me that the entire team was recently diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactive
Disorder (ADHD). “It was a real shame about the boys,” Rodriguez said. “The first thing I noticed was that they were suffering from ADHD. I brought in Dr. John Acula and he confirmed the need for some medical intervention.” In light of the recent Adderall scandals in the “Counter Strike: Global Offensive” competitive scene, the team’s new physician assured both reporters and tournament staffers that entire team’s sudden diagnosis is pure coincidence. “ADHD is difficult to diagnose,” Acula said in a statement to the press. “All five players were forced to live with this condition for their entire life thus far. They have lived their lives at a disadvantage. I’m proud to help even the playing field.” The long term effects of Adderall will take time to track, but a team staffer told me that NRG’s Korean-born top laner Jung “Impact” Eon-yeong was on his 73rd straight hour of playing League’s ranked mode. That dwarfs his previous record of 47 hours during the 2013 season. At my request, an interpreter
AP Photo
Shaq, A-Rod and Rollins look to wreck some noobs.
was able to ask him a question on how the drug has affected his play. “Shaq is almost as powerful as my iBuyPower computer,” Eonyeong reportedly said. “Jimmy (Rollins) couldn’t make it to the house this weekend, but we were able to communicate clearly through our HyperX stereo headsets. Great guy and a great product!” Although my response may have been lost in translation, it’s become clear that the new changes should help the team’s hopes at a run in the upcoming North American (NA)
League Championship Series (LCS) Spring Split Playoffs. “We have six championships between Rollins, A-Rod and I,” O’Neal said. “We’re just what they need to win the videogame league.” NRG will be put to the test against No. 4 Team Liquid in the NA LCS quarterfinals on Saturday, April 2. Before letting me close the door to my car, a frantic Miller once again reiterated, “Shaq is cool. ARod is cool. They think eSports is super cool. I win, Chris... Check. Fucking. MATE.”
Stan the money man Super Manning Bros. Last brother standing
By Arsène Wenger Leather Jacket Dude
Congratulations to Stan Kroenke, one of five executives nominated by the Sports Business Journal for the Sports Executive of the Year Award. Kroenke is currently being nominated for this award due to his involvement in bringing the National Football League (NFL) back to Los Angeles. He won’t be bringing the NFL back through an expansion team, but through relocating one of the teams he currently owns: the St. Louis Rams. This news has caught Kroenke a lot of flack from Rams fans in St. Louis. Dan Reeves, a season ticket holder for the Rams since the team first arrived from L.A. in 1995, was vocal about his displeasure of the team leaving. “We have been loyal fans of this team for 20 seasons now and this is how they treat us,” Reeves said. “And then to even nominate that scumbag Kroenke for an award for taking our team? That’s disgusting in so many ways!” Boo-hoo to the fans. Sports are all about money these days and since the Rams, Kroenke and the NFL can make more of it in Los Angeles, what do you expect? Kroenke won’t just shell out money because your city can’t afford to pay for renovations of the dilapidated Edward Jones Dome. What? Kroenke is worth an estimated $7 billion while his wife, the heiress to Wal-Mart, is worth $4 billion? He can afford to do the renovations himself for the good of the fans? That’s hilarious! Why would he do that?
Dank Lineup April 1, 2016
I n s i d e
By Vince Russo The Swerve Master
AP Photo
Kroenke doesn’t care about fans.
This is nothing personal to Rams fans — this is just business, after all. As long as a team is making billions, then why should fans cry when he takes a team they have probably supported their whole life and moves it over 1,800 miles away? This is what sports are about now, making those profits, getting as much green as you can from those suckers — oops, I mean fans. This is what has worked for Kroenke’s other sports teams that he owns, like Arsenal F.C., a soccer team in England. Sure, they may not have won the league since 2004 and the team is known for its low spending and high ticket prices (highest in Europe), but they are the only team to have recorded a profit for five years in a row and that is what really matters, right? So just be quiet, Rams fans. The league and owner don’t care about you, so why should you care? Just sit back, relax and have a nice beer while the L.A. Rams win the Finance Bowl next year.
In a shocking turn of events, former Broncos Quarterback Peyton Manning has revealed his retirement from the NFL was not due to injuries suffered on the field, but rather from ones brought on by his own flesh and blood. The two-time Super Bowl champion revealed in an interview with Al Jazeera, that younger brother Eli Manning was tired of what was described as Peyton’s constant stealing of the spotlight. “He felt my time had passed,” Peyton said. “My time was up and his time is now.” The incident took place just after the Broncos’s Week 10 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. Peyton, who was feared injured, told his family that he would be fine to start the next game, finish the season and win the Super Bowl. Already angered by his Giants’s loss to the cheating New England Patriots that week, Eli made the trip to Denver and, while his brother was entering his home, attacked him with a steel chair from behind. “You think you can still stand on this field, hang with me and be my equal?” Eli reportedly said. “Come on, Peyton! Sunday night was a cold, hard slap in the face of reality for you. Reality is that your career in
here, your time, it’s through. And deep inside, you know it. All you have left now… is your pride.” The bad blood between these two can be traced back to 2006, when Peyton won his first Super Bowl with the Indianapolis Colts. Eli, jealous of his brother’s success, went out with his team and won his own ring in 2007 against the Patriots in more impressive fashion, in the hopes to seem like the bigger star between the two. Not being content with seeing his brother gather more records, Eli struck again, winning his second Super Bowl in 2011 against the Patriots once again, claiming he was “the best in the world.” With Peyton on track to tie him in total rings, Eli did the only thing he could do to keep his pedestal safe — he took out his competition. But the plan backfired. Peyton came back even stronger than before and went on to win the Super Bowl against the Carolina Panthers. Now, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell wants this settled on the field. Peyton vs. Eli, Brother vs. Brother, in a Steel Cage, Papa John’s match. Who will come out on top? The guy with a legacy to uphold? Or the brother who was always overshadowed? Watch it live on NFL Pay-Per-View, Sunday, April 3.
46 53 Sydney’s Corner page 14
Lions win March Madness page 75
NHL promises financial failure page 99
Newton arrested for dabbing page 420