THE MONTGAZETTE March 2020

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Therol Dix Get to know The Rotaract Club Join “Little Women” A your college’s Vice President, and you too can give back to book and film reivew of an Page 7 the community, Page 6 American classic, Page 13 a student publication FREE

Issue 81 Serving Montgomery County Community College and the Surrounding Community March 2020

This issue went to press as the College closed in compliance with Gov. Wolf’s order to close county schools to stem the spread of the coronavirus. Check MC3.edu for updates.

“from the Editor” Read on Page 2.

Photo courtesy of publicdomainpictures.net Page 2 THE MONTGAZETTE March 2020

The Staff

Josh Young Editor-in-Chief

Michael Brown Chris Carr Margaret Cox Taylor Deimeyer Khushi Desai Gabe Evans Elijah Fennell, Patrick Farrell Avian Garcia Welcome back — to “both” of the Colleges’s campuses! Alim Howell Brian Lopez Russell Magee Josh Young Britney Morales The Montgazette Editor-in-Chief Shafi Nomari Joseph Oprysko Bryan Palicki Hello everyone, and welcome back to also taken part in this initiative by making the of students at the Pottstown Campus have Yana Petrova Michael Brown another semester at Montgomery County theme of this year’s issues about belonging and possibly felt discouraged about participating Loue Repsik Community — and an extra special welcome publishing stories that engender that feeling. in school activities and organizations. Ethan Saffier to those who are in their first semester here at Achieving a feeling of belonging is With that in mind, I want to announce that Quinn Szente March Contributors the College. no easy task, however, since Montgomery it is The Montgazette’s intention, beginning Yaniv Aronson I would like to take a moment to talk County Community College is a commuter with this article, to make a deliberate effort Robin Bonner Advisors about the need for Montgomery County college (no students live on campus) and has to feature Pottstown Campus activities and Community College and its organizations to two separate campuses that are more than events more prominently in the College’s Joshua Woodroffe Design & Layout promote collaboration and unity between its 25 miles apart. Nevertheless, the College newspaper. Furthermore, I would like to campuses in Blue Bell and in Pottstown. has done an exemplary job in encouraging encourage any student who may read this at The College and its various clubs and students to reach out and get involved. the Pottstown Campus and be interested in organizations have made a concerted effort While all of this has helped to promote writing for the Montgazette to reach out to over the course of this school year to foster a a sense of cohesiveness among students, the me at [email protected]. sense of belonging and inclusiveness among disconnect between the Blue Bell Campus It does not matter if you have written 50 the student body, in the hope of giving and the Pottstown Campus still remains. articles for student publications in the past, or students the resources and help that they need One indication of this disconnect is in The zero — I encourage you to be in contact. If to succeed. The Weeks of Welcome events, Montgazette itself. During my time here as there is an event happening at the Pottstown which are usually well-attended, and the both contributor and editor-in-chief, we have Campus or any other issue you think students urging of students to join clubs are just two published a few stories about events happening might be interested in reading about, please of the initiatives implemented with student or related to the Pottstown Campus but most of reach out to me. We will work with you to belonging in mind. our articles have been centered on happenings help you produce a successful article. The Student Government Association on the Blue Bell Campus. In addition, we have My hope is that by featuring the events is also starting a Peer Mentorship Program, been unable to sustain the involvement of happening in Pottstown more prominently, where new students can connect with more Pottstown students in the club. The Montgazette will help to foster that senior students about getting the help, advice, I also suspect that other club presidents sense of belonging and community that has and any other information that they may need have also experienced difficulty recruiting been somewhat missing between the two to succeed (you can read more about this in Pottstown Campus students to their respective campuses. Lastly, I wish everyone a good this issue, on p. 4). The Montgazette itself has organizations. As a result, I believe that a lot semester and good luck in all of your classes.

Advertise! About The Montgazette To advertise in The Montgazette, please email The Montgazette is published twice a semester from [email protected]. October to May by the students and advisory staff of\ Montgomery County Community College. All clubs chartered through the Student Life office may Printed by Journal Register in Exton, PA. advertise in The Montgazette free of charge. The Montgazette is printed on recycled paper. March 2020 THE MONTGAZETTE Page 3 Montgomery County Community College community event: Painting for Peace

Joseph Oprysko, Gabe Evans and Bryan Palicki MSP 111 The Montgazette Contributors

“I saw him!” said as an anti-protest against the aid counseling. The program are mounted in the hallway. painting in the past, but not Ms. Stephanie Cuadrado, “Hate Pastor,” who comes to also provides monthly skill- At the Mustang-painting for a long time.” an advisor at the Student protest on campus and spout building workshops, “Dine event, almost all the seats “People with different Success Center, “He would hate speech, the Painting and Dialogue” sessions, and available were filled with struggles seem to come stand on the steps screaming for Peace event has become tutorial services. students and staff. Director together to help each other,” at people, criticizing their a fun and relaxing event, Previous Painting for of ACT 101 Mo Ganey says Laura. “The world is not religion, sex, looks, anything where any student or staff Peace events on campus discussed what Painting for as cold as some people make that might upset someone member can participate. have included a focus on Peace meant to her: “It’s a it out to be,” she adds. and start a fight so he can sue ACT 101 is a program breast cancer awareness very nice way to associate Laura spoke about the college.” at Montgomery County last October. The Painting with people, as well as being how she liked to notice The ACT 101 program Community College that for Peace event held generally low-key.” the little kindnesses that at MCCC holds a Painting aids students with various Wednesday, January 28, Hospitality student Laura people do, saying, “Most for Peace event at least once types of support to help them 2020, facilitated painting Butterworth preferred to mix people see these small deeds a semester. The activity succeed in college. Support the Mustang, the College’s her own colors, rather than as inconsequential, but if originated with student provided includes one-on- campus mascot. Artwork using the premixed colors on everyone just did something Pierce Edwards, who came one academic and personal from several previous events her Mustang. She mentioned small, [these things] would up with the name and idea. coaching, academic advocacy, can be seen at the Student that painting was relaxing for all come together to be While it originally started laptop lending, and financial Success Center, where they her, adding, “I had done some something remarkable.”

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For advertising info: Staff and students, painting Mustangs. email [email protected] Photo bby Joseph Oprysko, Gabe Evans, Bryan Palicki Page 4 THE MONTGAZETTE March 2020 Student Government Association to begin Peer Mentor Program

Alim Howell The Montgazette Contributor

Some citizens are just not ones, find the services and help Mentor Program will give them improving both academics and interested in politics, but, to that they may need to succeed. family vibes,” Senator Brigette attitudes, which will allow for the

AMPUS them, knowing information Senator Shaday White Barrow stated. creation of campus role models. about political issues and explained the purpose of the Through the SGA, the Peer A mentor will be assigned to each problems people are facing in program: “If you are feeling Mentorship Program will be student after he or she submits the world is very important. alone, the SGA will advise you. a great addition to the college an application and an interview Here at Montgomery County It will help students through a because it will be a productive takes place to find the best fit Community College there is a new support system. By creating resource for new students. between mentor and student.

ON C group of students and faculty this program, students can have a Program attendees will be able There are no restrictions on who assist the student body in conversation, voicing their wants to share real-life experiences, becoming a mentee. making the college a better place. and needs.” broaden their mindset for These students are members “Some students are lonely, academics, strengthen skill sets, Continued on Page 17. of the Student Government and connecting with the Peer and increase school performance, Association. President Israel Harding explains what he believes is the primary function of student government, saying, “You can’t have unity without Community!” Vice President Jacqueline Edelman echoes President Harding’s thoughts, saying, “The Student Government Association is focused on how to connect peers.” Recently, the SGA undertook plans to help foster the sense of community and unity that President Harding and Vice President Edelman believe should be the foremost concern of student government. These two leaders, along with other members of the SGA, hope to accomplish this unity through the creation of a Peer Mentorship (left to right) Senator Shaun Woodling, Senator Brigette Barrow, President Israel Harding, Program. This new program Vice President Jacqueline Edelman, and Treasurer Barry Hunsberger of the Student offered by Montgomery County Government Association. Community College is designed to help students, especially new Photo by Barry Hunsberger March 2020 THE MONTGAZETTE Page 5 Get involved at Montgomery County Community College: Hunting for clubs

Taylor Deimeyer, Michael Brown and Yana Petrova MSP 111 The Montgazette Contributors

Along the hallways in students are interested in the Student Life Center, Parkhouse Hall there hang art, history, video games, or says, “Clubs offer friendship, bulletin boards covered anything in between, there scholarship and leadership with flyers. Unsure where are a variety of clubs waiting opportunities for everyone.” to look, Dani Bookheimer, for them. She recommends that students a Psychology major, stares College clubs are also check out clubs through the intensely at the wall of papers. linked to many campus Student Portal. From there She is interested in doing an programs and majors. For they can click the Campus activity to get involved in the example, if a student is an Life tab and scroll down to campus community, but how incoming freshman entering “Find Organizations.” Here, to choose? the SRT music program, students can see all of the There are more than there is Montco Radio or the various clubs the school offers 50 clubs available to join Electronic Musicians Club. and their meeting details. Communicating Arts Production Group (CAPG) Meeting. at Montgomery County Diana McGuire, Photo by Taylor Deimeyer Community College. Whether Administrative Support in Continued on Page 16.

You’re invited to our * OPEN HOUSE APRIL 25 Annunciation Center Registration opens at 9:00 a.m. Spend the day exploring our beautiful campus and learning what makes CSE so great! * Students who attend the Open House will receive a $1,000 grant towards their CSE tuition if they enroll this fall.

REGISTER NOW www.cse.edu/visit Page 6 THE MONTGAZETTE March 2020 The Rotaract Club: Getting to know her: A way to give back to the community Vice President Therol Dix

Loue Repsik The Montgazette Contributor

The Montgomery County in which individuals can realized there was this vast “This is a real passion of over the world.” Community College Rotaract provide a lasting impact on network of Rotary Clubs all mine and something I want to The next few months Club at Central Campus is their community and the over the world as well as a continue. The club’s leaders will be active for the an organization that strives world, and nurture skills, tremendous group of new and I want to build up the club Rotaract Club: The group to inspire young people to such as leadership, through friends to do this great work with a strong officer team is going to volunteer at the take control of the future by community service. with,” Dr. Aronson said. and give students a chance to Conshohocken 5K on April improving their community Started in 1905, the Because of his previous show leadership, plan events, 25, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., through service projects. goal of the organization was experience, Dr. Aronson is and organize.” which benefits the ALS The club is an offshoot to connect professionals in positive that he can help Dr. Aronson added that Association. Those who are of Rotary International, a different fields so they could build the Rotaract club’s the Rotaract Club is also an interested can find the club’s 1.2-million-strong service share their ideas and foster infrastructure and agenda excellent organization to have contact information below. organization with a mission friendships. There are no to help them accomplish on a résumé because there are to promote peace, prevent longer caps on the type of big goals. members to network with all Continued on Page 9. disease, and provide clean professional fields that can be water, sanitation, and hygiene. involved, opening the doors Members also advocate for to new members all over the increasing literacy rates, world. Rotary consists of participate in building three levels of involvement, positive communities, and including local Rotary clubs, provide help for mothers and college Rotaract clubs and children through donations high-school Interact Clubs. that increase access to Dr. Yaniv Aronson, the skilled health professionals, advisor for the Montgomery distribution of clean birth County Community College kits, training to prevent HIV Rotaract Club, explained transmission, and promotion his initial involvement with of immunizations. According the Rotary Evening Club in to Rotary International’s Conshohocken. website, there are more than “I was the founding 35,000 clubs in action around Chairman of the the world. Conshohocken Rotary Rotary clubs are Club’s first evening club. passionate about finding We hoped that by starting an solutions to problems evening meeting, at a popular through three levels of restaurant in town, we could participation: local, national attract young people to the Members of the Rotaract Club at the Club Fair in February. Left to right: Leilani and international. Rotary club, and it worked! When Kay Katz, Victoria Bastecki-Perez, Tori Brubaker, Yaniv Aronson, Lisa Berman.

International states that their I first started, I had no clue Photo by Yaniv Aronson main goal is to share ways what Rotary was but then I March 2020 THE MONTGAZETTE Page 7 The Rotaract Club: Getting to know her: A way to give back to the community Vice President Therol Dix Margaret Cox The Montgazette Contributor

In September of 2019, Campus. I look forward to making She considered a career in academia Dix eventually transitioned to a Montgomery County Community a difference in a community that is but chose law as a “wage-sustaining” position as a full-time Montgomery College named Therol Dix as the in some ways similar to Camden, profession that would allow her to County Community College faculty new Vice President of the Pottstown where I grew up—a community that give back to her family and others. member, a department coordinator, Campus. Having served in other has pride and great traditions and is After earning her law degree, she and then Dean of Arts and Humanities. faculty and administrative positions at seeking positive change.” served as Assistant District Attorney “I really did long for academia,” the College (see below) Vice President Dix has made several for Montgomery County. She valued she admitted. “I had the most eclectic Dix is embracing her new role with a academic and career changes being a prosecutor but missed being background. I could teach all kinds sense of purpose and excitement. during her life. She holds a B.A. in part of the academic world, which led of things based on that combination. “I am very happy having made Communication Studies from the Dix to teach law classes. Coming back in, I really enjoyed this move,” she explained during a University of California, an M.A. in Beginning as an adjunct teaching and especially being an recent interview. “I love to work with Communication from the University faculty member at Montgomery administrator.” people to help them reach their goals. of Pennsylvania, and a J.D. from County Community College and at I am particularly glad to be at the West Georgetown University Law Center. Northampton Community College, Continued on Page 11.

Get Ahead With Summer Classes! REGISTER NOW Summer registration opens on March 4. FOR SUMMER. mc3.edu/summer Page 8 THE MONTGAZETTE March 2020 Sound Recording Technology at the College

Elijah Fennell, Patrick Farrell and Quinn Szente MSP 111 The Montgazette Contributors

There have been some exciting SRT faculty members include Michael campus music industry professionals Mitlas said, “There is no other new developments at the Montgomery Kelly, Howard Gordon, Jen Mitlas, who share their experiences and tips local program like this; we are County Community College Blue and Michael Lightkep. with students. Master classes have always looking to expand into the Bell campus in the past three years: David Ivory, coordinator of the included Wonder Years guitarist cutting edge.” Said Ivory, “In the For one, the College has invested SRT program, brings to Montgomery Casey Cavaliere, Grammy nominee future this will be the best two- heavily in a new Sound Recording County Community College a long Stefon Harris and entertainment year program in the country for Technology (SRT) program. resume of producing music and attorney Bernie Resnick. recording technology.” Matt Porter, Senior Producer and working in the industry. He said, “We Technical Services Manager at Central have seen tremendous growth in the Campus, with 22 years on campus, last few years. We had 40 students in reflected enthusiastically about the the beginning and now have over 150 new develo Ωpments in the program, students.” SRT has also seen a major saying, “We started with tape, and it increase in women’s enrollment. The is awesome to see the program come program started with just two female into its own with the addition of a students, yet women now make up a $2 million studio.” SRT also saw the quarter of its enrollment. construction of four other top-of-the- Jen Mitlas, an SRT professor, is line studios that are accessible for extremely excited about the growth students to produce, mix and record of the program over the past 3 years. as professionals. “We now have waitlisted up to 20 Porter attributed the recent students,” said Mitlas. “The numbers popularity of the program to the strong have more than doubled.” staff of professors and the brand new Mitlas said that the program’s state-of-the-art mix room, saying, growth comes from its faculty, as “each “We have amazing, fantastic faculty instructor brings something unique to The Mix Room at Central Campus. and top-of-the-line facilities, and we the table.” This has allowed faculty Photo by Quinn Szente offer students hands-on experience.” to host “master classes” that bring to March 2020 THE MONTGAZETTE Page 9

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The Rotaract Club Continued from Page 6. There is also a walk on May 2, Sustainability Club. opportunity to be a part of something “Whether it is a smile from from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., at the Blue Bell Life Science major Tori on campus. So many students just someone, a cleaner environment, or campus, for an organization called Brubaker is the current president of come to college, go to class, and raising awareness, the Rotaract Club National Alliance on Mental Illness the Rotaract Club. She shared that then leave. Most people want to be is important to me because it is a club (NAMI). NAMI is Montgomery the club is interested in gaining new a part of something, and this is a that betters the community. To some County’s mental health awareness members who would like to join club where we welcome anyone and people, it may be small things that program, which provides training them in their mission to make an everyone,” said Brubaker. we do, but it does go a long way. One about self-care and how to identify impact on the lives of others. Brubaker explained that there person can make a difference, and if someone is depressed or suicidal. “We strive to help our community are also opportunities available to several people together can make an It also provides resources on a in any number of ways, including become an officer in the club, since even bigger impact,” said Gonzalez. range of mental health topics. “We holding fundraisers, volunteering for students rotate out of campus every The Rotaract Club holds their are walking with hundreds of other charity events, providing care cards two years or so, meaning there is meetings on the first and third people who are coming together for children, or helping on campus,” always a chance for someone to take Monday of the month during common to show solidarity and to start a she said. on a leadership role. hour, 12:20-1:15 p.m., in Parkhouse conversation about mental health,” “I’ve spoken with many students Nursing major Delmi Gonzalez Rm.104. Anyone interested in joining Dr. Aronson said. who struggle to create friendships. is the vice president of the Rotaract can attend a meeting and contact the Looking toward the future, The Going to events with other people Club. She said her favorite aspect club at [email protected]. Rotaract Club has expressed interest opens that door to meet new people. of the club was knowing that the The club can be found on Facebook in teaming up with the food pantry They can meet others during events events and volunteer activities in @Montgomery County Community on campus and also participating that could easily open up the network which they participate are for a College Rotaract Club and Instagram in an on-campus cleanup with the of people they know. There’s also an positive outcome. @MC3 Rotaract. Page 10 THE MONTGAZETTE March 2020 Kobe Bryant: The tragic loss of a legend

Ethan Saffier, Chris Carr, Shafi Nomari, Britney Morales, Brian Lopez, and Avian Garcia MSP 111 The Montgazette Contributors

In many ways 2019 was a year of great such an illustrious career, the death of Bryant coach at Montgomery County Community loss and many hardships. Students had hoped has also affected many staff and students at the College, was also affected by Kobe’s passing. for 2020 to be different, but that seems to be Montgomery County Community College. “My 13-year-old son is a huge basketball fan a dream lost. Anthony Straface, a first-year business and player. He was hit hard; he idolizes Kobe ORIAL On the morning of Sunday, January 26, management student and dedicated basketball a lot.” What really made her sad was that her basketball legend Kobe Bryant died at the fan reflected on Kobe’s passing by saying, son’s father is his coach and takes him to all relatively young age of 41 in a helicopter “I was in shock when I heard the news. I his games, a similar situation to Kobe and his accident, along with eight other victims, remember his rivalries with the Spurs and daughter Gianna. including his 13-year-old daughter Gianna. Celtics and when he defeated the Orlando Bryant’s impact has gone further than While the tragedy of the iconic Bryant’s Magic in the NBA Finals.” the game of basketball, however. His death EDIT untimely passing has affected people around Kobe had meant a lot to Anthony and affected not only fans from the game of the world, Bryant’s roots to Philadelphia many other students, like Khalid Atif, an SRT basketball, but it has also affected those he are planted at Lower Merion High School, major, and a former student of Lower Merion attracted through his personality and how he Kobe’s alma mater. It was there that Bryant High School. carried himself. started to attract national attention on his Reflecting on Bryant’s death Atif said, After his retirement, Bryant dedicated way to becoming the first high-school “I can’t believe it. It was painful and really himself to his family and The Kobe and basketball player to bypass college and be hit home.” Vanessa Bryant Family Foundation. This drafted directly into the National Basketball The news of Kobe’s passing has left many foundation, founded by Kobe and his Association (NBA). in utter disbelief, but, thankfully, he gave the wife, was created to provide scholarships Upon being selected 13th overall by world a trove of unforgettable memories. for Mamba FC, a youth soccer team that the Charlotte Hornets, who shortly traded Heather Plank, a Montgomery County teaches young athletes how to be leaders Bryant to the Los Angeles Lakers, he quickly Community College librarian, reflected, and independent thinkers through sports. became the face of the franchise. Starting in “Although I am not a basketball fan, I knew Although the loss of Bryant is a tragedy 2000, Bryant and teammate Shaquille O’Neal about Kobe and who he was from what I have to many, the memories he left with the led the Lakers to four straight NBA Finals seen of him in pop culture. I was in shock people at Montgomery County Community appearances and three consecutive titles in when I found out about his passing.” College will be everlasting and will continue 2000, 2001, and 2002. Following O’Neal’s Stefanie Cuadrado, a student success his legacy. departure at the end of the 2003 season, Bryant went to the Finals three more times in 2008, 2009, and 2010, with championships in 2009 and 2010. Bryant retired in 2016 and scored 60 points in his final game against the Utah Jazz. At the conclusion of his 20-year career, Kobe Bryant was a five-time NBA champion, an 18-time All-Star, 15-time All-NBA Team member, a 12-time All-Defensive Team member, the 2008 NBA MVP, and a two- time NBA Finals MVP. Bryant also scored 81 points on Jan. 22, 2006, against the Toronto Well-wishers leave flowers outside Bryant Gymnasium Raptors, the second-highest point total by a the day of Bryant’s death. player in an NBA game. With such close ties to the area and with Photo by Ethan Saffier March 2020 THE MONTGAZETTE Page 11

Therol Dix workforce, utilizing 21st-century resources, who attend the Pottstown Campus exclusively. Continued from Page 8. where employees feel that they are growing. I Many see the program as an opportunity for see them committed and dedicated, using their students at both campuses to come together. If She looks forward to using her administrative skills and talents, and feeling respected.” In the anyone is interested in joining the eSports team, skills in her new role, noting “I have always liked community Dix foresees, students will have a sense contact Ryan Plummer at [email protected]. administrative work. I’m organized and I don’t of belonging, and the knowledge that important (For more on the College’s new eSports program, mind meetings.” resources, support and guidance are available. She see the December 2019 issue of The Montgazette.) Giving earnest credit to her family and her faith also notes that moving forward, “working with Moving forward, Dix would like to see “more in God, Dix also expressed gratitude for those at internal stakeholders and community partners, we green space, more common space for faculty and the College who have helped her achieve her goals. are looking at basic needs for students, as well as students to just enjoy being here, connectedness “The leadership at all levels has been phenomenal,” the extent and complexity of those needs.” to the campus, gathering spaces - things that make she declared. “I appreciate my colleagues and Dix believes that the Pottstown Campus has a people feel proud about the campus and want to be mentors who were with me at every step of the way, “solid and strong academic profile” and plans on here.” all those people who have been alongside me.” promoting and maintaining “a reasonable balance Vice President Dix is more than an Reflecting on her “still evolving” vision for of liberal arts and STEM offerings.” She adds, “We administrator; she is a fascinating person to get the Pottstown Campus, Dix described her views may consider tweaking our STEM offerings to meet to know. First, she has been a resident, with her about the campus’s importance to the College and the needs of the 21st-century workforce.” family, of Montgomery County for more than the community. “We’re dreaming big,” she stated. Some recent developments on the Pottstown 25 years, so she truly knows and cares about the “My dream for the Pottstown Campus is that we are Campus excite Dix. Influenced by her vision, College’s student population. What’s more, during an integral part of every aspect of the Montgomery the campus is implementing a fitness center pilot this interview, she shared a few “fun facts” about County Community College experience. I’d love to program, located in the South Hall. The center herself: First, the last book she read was “How have us viewed as a premiere institution of higher is equipped with a treadmill, elliptical, rowing to Pray for Your Adult Children.” Second, if she education and training. I would love to see more machine, stationary bicycle, free weights, and could have dinner with any three persons, alive engagement and partnerships with the community.” assorted yoga equipment. Like the Blue Bell or historical, she would choose her grandparents In addition to being an integral part of the Campus, the Pottstown Campus now houses an (collectively), Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and community, Dix hopes the Pottstown Campus will eSports pavilion. either Agatha Christie or Jane Austen. Finally, her be a vital part of the lives of its faculty, staff and The eSports program is the College’s latest last statement during a recent interview was, “I am students. She envisions “a cohesive and vibrant varsity sport and the first one to be open to students very happy.” Page 12 THE MONTGAZETTE March 2020 Oscars roundup Josh Young Khushi Desai The Montgazette Editor-in-Chief The Montgazette Contributor

On February 9, the 92nd use of convicted pedophile Gary delivered at every turn. The number Zellweger has been somewhat Academy Awards aired from the Glitter’s “Rock and Roll Part II” of dark laughs that Joon-Ho is able overshadowed by others in more Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, (Glitter did not make money on it, to elicit, while at the same time financially successful films, California, where winners were as he has signed away the rights to holding onto the teeth-grinding but anyone who saw the movie

AINMENT crowned in all their respective all of his songs), when Joker gives suspense of the narrative is truly agreed on one thing: Hers was the categories. This year’s list of in to his psychotic side, the score astounding, and there is simply no best performance by an actress nominees was one of the strongest of “Joker” was simply superb. It other person who should win this in 2019. I do not think anyone in recent memory, with several was for all these reasons that I award. In “Parasite,” Joon-Ho has else could have realistically been films being viable contenders for was extremely happy to see the created yet another genre-bending considered here. the Best Picture award. However, Academy not succumb to all of masterpiece. Once again, I really did Khushi’s Pick: Saoirse Ronan the ceremony was also not without the media-induced hysteria that not think there was any competition in “Little Women” deserved this its slam-dunk nominees. In this surrounded the film’s release and in this category. Joon-Ho is such a Oscar. Ronan’s performance as article, Khushi and I offer our reward a deserving composer for master of his craft that any year he Jo was fierce, independent and analysis regarding the winners of her work. releases a film, I believe that there passionate. In my opinion, she ENTERT the major awards, as well as our is an argument to be made that he Khushi’s Pick: “Little Women” really portrayed her character personal picks for those awards. deserves the win. I was glad to see and “Marriage Story” were my well and could have pulled out Joon-Ho win this and, also, to see top two choices for the best Film the win, had Zellweger not been Best Film Score “Parasite’s” win for Best Picture. I Score category. The film score in so heavily favored. really hope that this will encourage Josh’s Pick: I think “Joker” had “Little Women” was phenomenal; more people to seek out foreign the best film score, with “1917” it was extraordinarily romantic Oscar’s Pick: Renee Zellweger cinema, as it is truly a monumental coming in second. The 37-year- and very soothing. The music for “Judy” win for Joon-Ho personally, and old Icelandic composer Hildur at Beth’s death and her funeral also for directors from foreign Guðnadóttir (please do not ask me scene was really emotional. I Actor in a Leading Role to pronounce her name) continued countries, as a whole, who may am a huge crier when it comes Josh’s Pick: Speaking of people her rise after having previously begin to consider campaigning for to romantic films, and this score penciled in as the winner in a worked on “Sicario: Day of the the Oscars. had me crying like a baby. category for months, Joaquin Soldado” and the HBO miniseries Khushi’s Pick: Declined to answer Phoenix has been taking victory “Chernobyl.” Guðnadóttir’s score Oscar’s Pick: “Joker” laps for his performance as the in “Joker” relied heavily on minor Oscar’s Pick: Bong Joon-Ho Best Director titular character since the release chords and discordant sounds that of “Joker” in October. Phoenix really reflected the protagonist’s Josh’s Pick: Bong Joon-Ho has Actress in a Leading Role has swept virtually every major descent into madness as well as his remained largely unknown among Josh’s Pick: Renee Zellweger award for “Joker,” winning at own feelings of self-loathing and general audiences in the United had been penciled in as the winner the Screen Actors Guild Awards, hatred toward the world. In my States. Make no mistake, however; of this award since the release of Golden Globes and BAFTAs, opinion, a great score is one that he has proved himself to be one of the film “Judy,” and deservedly before his win at the Oscars. And you can vividly remember from a the best film directors in the world so. Zellweger perfectly captures he absolutely deserved every particular scene and also associate over the past two decades, and this the mystique and aura that one of the accolades that came the emotion that it evokes in that trend continues with “Parasite.” surrounded Judy Garland, and it his way for his portrayal of the moment, and there are plenty Joon-Ho succeeded in creating a is very clear that this is a deeply iconic joker. in “Joker.” From the almost film that combines several genres, personal performance for the euphoric swell following Joker’s spanning comedy to suspense actress herself. If you want to see Continued on Page 18. first murder and the subsequent thriller, while also incorporating a master class in acting, watch celebration of his actions, to the a multitude of tonal shifts, and it Renee Zellweger in “Judy.” March 2020 THE MONTGAZETTE Page 13 Book and film review: “Little Women”

Russell Magee The Montgazette Contributor

With the new film adaptation sister has her own storyline that seven years earlier. Within each in the film as colors, dialogue, and by award-winning director Greta differs uniquely from the others. alternating transition, a portrait of music. Greta Gerwig’s reimagining Gerwig, the classic novel “Little Meg is destined for married life. the characters’ lives, with all their of Alcott’s classic tale, complete with Women,” by Louisa May Alcott, Jo is the aspiring writer. Beth is triumphs and losses, highs and impeccable acting and an evocatively has made a resurgence in the hearts the talented musician of the group. lows, and trials and tribulations, crafted score, is remarkable. Saoirse of readers everywhere. I decided to And Amy, the beautiful runt, seeks a is widened. Nostalgia, ambition, Ronan’s performance as Jo, the find out for myself what the hype future of elegance and art. Together marriage, wealth, war, illness, and character presumably based on was about, and so I grabbed a copy with their next-door neighbor Teddy death are but a few of the themes Alcott herself, was astounding, as and dove in. Laurence, their plotlines weave and explored in the story. However, love was Timothée Chalamet’s as Teddy Published in 1868, “Little tangle over the course of 700 pages is what binds these themes together Laurence. At the Academy Awards, Women” is the tale of the four to form an uncontested classic that to form an eerily prescient picture the film was nominated for six March sisters: Meg, Jo, Beth, and retains its importance in the canon of family. different awards. Amy. It is set during the height of of literature today. In a little over two hours, the I highly recommend “Little the Civil War, and it is all the March The film adaptation is nothing film manages to accomplish the Women” both to read and to see, sisters can do not to worry about short of an achievement. The impossible: capturing what makes the as the novel stands an uncontested their father, who is away at war. But film fluctuates from a current book a masterpiece. The atmosphere, literary classic, and the 2019 film may beyond their familial concerns, each timeline to flashbacks of up to emotions, and tone of the novel appear just be as well. Smart Move! Transfer to ESU and earn up to $2,000 a year.

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Where WARRIORS Belong™ Campus Days: Open House: Saturday, April 4 Saturday, April 18 Page 14 THE MONTGAZETTE March 2020 46th Annual Triangle Club of Montgomery County basketball tournament

Khushi Desai The Montgazette Contributor

The 46th Annual Triangle sophomore guard, won the MVP slashed his way to 15 points.” to only two field goals and two Club of Montgomery County award,” Toth says. Toth recounts highlights of Game free throws, all by Shane Holland, basketball tournament began According to Toth, the 3, saying, “Jordan Longino came in the fourth period. Meanwhile, on Friday, December 6, and ran four games played in the 46th to play for the Patriots. He put his Rustin was making 11 of 12 free Saturday, December 7. Four area Tournament finished up as teammates on his back and scored throws to go along with 3 field high-school boys’ basketball follows: In Game 1, the scores a tournament record 37 points.” goals in the final period. IV Pettit SPORTS teams faced off in the annual were 58 for LaSalle College High About the gripping, championship played a very consistent game tip-off tournament, which was School and 39 for Germantown Game 4, Toth says, “This game hitting 4 treys and ended up with held in Montgomery County Academy. Game 2 resulted in was up for grabs with only 8 16 points.” Community College’s state-of- 69 for Wissahickon High School minutes left to play. West Chester the-art gymnasium, in Blue Bell. and 67 for West Chester Bayard Rustin then went on an 11-2 run Continued on Page 17. This year the tournament Rustin. In Game 3, the scores and pulled away. LaSalle was held opened its first night with were 59 for Wissahickon High Germantown Academy playing School and 66 for Germantown La Salle College High School. Academy. Last was Game 4, the Following the first matchup, championship round, where West West Chester Rustin High School Chester Bayard Rustin topped competed against Wissahickon LaSalle High School, 53 to 39. High School. On night two, Regarding the players’ the runners-up battled it out in performance on the court, about a consolation game, with the Game 1, Toth says, “LaSalle has winners of the previous evening one of the top high-school players competing in the championship in southeastern PA, Junior (6’4”) game. guard Jordan Longino. Jordan A recent write-up recounting has already scored over 1,000 the scores of the tournament points in his first two seasons on was posted on the Triangle Club the hardwood.” He continues, website, triangleclubmc.com. “Finally, senior guard Shane Mike Toth, one of the board Holland (5’11”) and Mike Dipietro members of the club, wrote about (6’5”) found the range and put this year’s tournament. LaSalle up 30-22 halftime.” “The 46th Annual Triangle In Game 2, according to Toth, Club Basketball Tournament is “Junior Griffin Barauk was tossing in the books. And for the fourth in 5 treys on the way to 22 points. consecutive year, there is a new Sophomore guard IV Pettit added champion. West Chester, Bayard 15, and senior forward Dan Werthy Rustin, a runner-up in the 2018 had 11. Harrison Williams had a The 2019 Triangle Club of Montgomery County Basketball tournament, prevailed with a game-high 24 points, including Tournament Most Valuable Player, IV Petit, with board 53-39 win over LaSalle College 9 of 10 from the free throw line. members Bill Willson and Councilman Derrick Perry. High School in the championship Matt Compas, a very fluid (6’1”) Photo by The Triangle Club of Montgomery County game. Rustin’s IV Petit, a junior, had many key buckets and March 2020 THE MONTGAZETTE Page 15 Page 16 THE MONTGAZETTE March 2020

Hunting for clubs just waiting for my welcome letter.” student is still hopelessly searching for the right Continued from Page 5. Anthony Hayes, an Electrical Engineering fit, the final option is to start up their very own student, is not involved in any campus organizations. club. If they can find at least three other interested In addition, there is also contact information for “I would enjoy a Volleyball or Basketball Club. I students and an advisor, they can officially have a each club. “I recommend joining a club that relates know of the competitive athletic teams, but I would club that fits them perfectly. The most important to your major for better understanding of material, rather play leisurely,” said Hayes. He also added step is to meet with the Student Life Office to networking and a more fulfilling semester,” another idea, for a chess club. None of his three make sure no similar organizations already exist continues McGuire. suggestions is currently offered as a club by the and to get their guidance on setting up the club Carolina Braga, a student in Business College. officially. Administration explained that she applied to On Wednesday, February 12, the College Clubs are a great way for students to spend become a member of Phi Theta Kappa (PTK). PTK hosted a Club Fair to spotlight all the organizations their free time. With enough passion and similar is a nationally recognized Honors Society that hosts on campus. Officers of each club were available personalities, students might find their newest fundraisers and projects to better the community.” in Parkhouse Hall for questions and general hobby and also make some great new friends. One The leadership and scholarship opportunities are information. of you might even be on the other side of the tables the reasons why I joined,” says Braga. “Now I’m If, after attending all the various events, a at the next Club Fair!

Student Goverment Association Director of Student Life Tyler Steffy Continued from Page 4. said, “We are here to listen to you and to help The Triangle Club basketball tournament make information accessible. We want to help Continued from Page 14. Director of Student Life Tyler Steffy explained, create a more engaging population. When “Our program is currently set up to match students are involved, there is a better chance The 2020 Triangle to high school seniors mentors with mentees so that they can of success.” Club Tip-Off Tournament who are nominated communicate about resources to help students The Student Government Association will be held at by their high school‘s achieve success. The main goals are to help officers are President Israel Harding, Vice Montgomery Community administrators. students learn about the resources available at President Jacqueline Edelman, Treasurer College early in December The club was the College that may assist them in achieving Barry Hunsberger, Secretary Katrina 2020. The competing high established in 1963 to the goals they set for themselves.” Boughter, Advisor/Director of Student Life school teams have not promote service, sports, Steffy continued, saying, “Also, we hope Tyler Steffy and 6 senators. A branch of been announced yet. and scholarship among that the program will help students deepen Student Government at both the West and The Triangle Club public, parochial, and their sense of belonging at the college and Central Campus allows for student interaction is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit private high-school truly feel a part of the Montco community. with and promotes community involvement volunteer organization students in Montgomery This may include getting involved in clubs; at the College. Officers or members can be that works in coordination County. developing relationships with students, reached at Central Campus Student Life with Montgomery County If you have any faculty and staff; and becoming more engaged Office, College Hall Room 103. Student high schools to recognize questions regarding the with the different activities sponsored by the Government meetings are held every Monday. students who excel in tournament or the efforts College.” Email getinvolved.mc3.edu or call 215-641- scholarship, sports, and of the Triangle Club of Student Government Association President 6581 with questions, concerns, ideas. service. Each spring, at Montgomery County, visit Israel Harding said, “SGA is here to help bridge For more information, SGA meetings are the Dannehower Awards triangleclubmc.org or the gap between students: to give motivation held Mondays from 12:20 p.m. to 1:20 p.m. in Banquet, the club presents email info@triangleclub. and purpose, to act as a liaison for change; to College Hall Rm 147. college scholarships com. help students stand together, bond together.” TRANSFERRED HERE. PROVEN EVERYWHERE. USciences is a proven investment in your future: • #1 in PA, NJ, and DE and Top 10 in the nation for salary after graduation (U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard, October 2019) • Top 10 in the nation for ROI 40 years after enrollment (A First Try at ROI: Ranking 4,500 Colleges, Georgetown University, 2019) • Lower, FIXED tuition—know the full cost from day one until graduation! Speak with your advisor or contact us at [email protected] or 888-996-8747.

GET AN INSTANT DECISION at Transfer Decision Day: May 19 USciences.edu/TransferDecisionDay Page 18 THE MONTGAZETTE March 2020

Oscars Continued from Page 12. There was not one scene in this film in which Phoenix does not play a major role, and he did not buckle once throughout the entirety of its run time. For me, the first scene of “Joker” contained one of the most memorable acting moments this year, as tears streamed down his face just trying to conjure up a smile. One of the most talented actors of an entire generation richly deserved this addition to his trophy cabinet. Khushi’s Pick: Adam Driver’s performance in “Marriage Story” was breathtaking. Many people say that some of the scenes in which he performed were overacted, but I feel that he portrayed the character really well. Driver is known to have a serious face in public, but in this film, you can see his true range, including a tender side. Oscar’s Pick: Joaquin Phoenix for “Joker.” Best Picture Josh’s Pick: The Academy usually comes under fire for unpopular choices when it comes to selecting the winner for Best Picture, but they made the right choice by selecting “Parasite” as the Best Picture of 2019. This is the type of film that I believe everyone should try and see at least once in their lifetime. It will be studied in film schools for years. It has amazing set design, an excellent script, superb acting, impeccable directing, and perfect film editing — all coming together to create one of the best films of this century. I would write more, but I am afraid that I would spoil too much for potential viewers. For that reason, I am going to leave off here and simply say that if you ever get an opportunity to see this film, seize on it. Do not be intimidated by the presence of subtitles. I promise you will not regret it. Khushi’s Pick: Declined to answer Oscar’s Pick: “Parasite” March 2020 THE MONTGAZETTE Page 19 Page 20 THE MONTGAZETTE March 2020

University Center

The University Center at Montgomery County Community College offers bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral degrees and certiﬁ cates through select partner institutions, taught by their professors on our Central, West and Virtual campuses.

Visit mc3.edu/uc to learn more.