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February 15,2007 THE OBSERVER fordhamobserver.com Volume XXVI, Issue 9 Concerns to Profs: Take a Load Off! raised over an to lighten course load for all full-time profs by 2011

student :; ByCHRlS BARLOW ASSESTANtNEWS EDITOR

leadership FCLC^Fbrdham University wants By LAURA SHIN your professors to be working hard- STAFF WRITER er—by working less. In a move that is already being lauded by both fac- ulty and administration, members of . FCLC—The faces of students the arts and sciences faculties at both leaders at FCLC may be all too Fordham campuses could soon see a familiar. In fact, according to data reduction in their course loads as part provided by the Office of Student of the University's 10-year strategic Leadership and Community De- plan. And while the change is being velopment, at least 10 students met with general enthusiasm, a spe- currently hold multiple club lead- cific strategy for compensating for the ership positions on campus. Some lost course-per-professor has yet to be bold as.many as four and this does determined, according to the Dean's not include committees and other Office. programs they may also repre- The course load reductions, which sent. A concern for overextended were officially announced in a Feb. 2 students is raised, and with many e-mail from Robert F. Himmelberg, of these student leaders also hold- dean of the faculty of arts and scienc- ing a seat on the Student Activi- es, will begin this fall and be phased ties Budget Committee (SABC), in through the end ofthe 2010-11 aca- the process of allocating funds demic year. Full-time faculty currently is also in question, according to carry a 3-3 course load—meaning Danny Witt, president of United they teach three courses per semester, Student Government (USG). unless they receive special dispensa- "There needs to be more stu- tion for a temporary reduction—but Professor Fincke, of the Philosophy Department, addresses a classroom of students. dents willing to step up and get the new plan will permanently reduce involved in their campus," said this to a 3-2 course load—three cours- SOTS] tojuggl e too many different idea willhefc further build FCLC's reputa- suit institution like FCLC, professors Alex Morr, FCLC '07. "What es one semester a year, two courses the systems, bodies of knowledge, and tion." concerns me is whether there will. other. administrative duties." However, improving Foidham's way [they] stay intellectually alive is be enough students in clubs to "Schools of Foranam's reputation Grimes also admitted that "many reputation—one of the broader goals' through research... That takes a lot of be able to keep creating asocial and with Fordham's quality of faculty comparable schools to Fordham have of Uriiversity President the Rev. Jo- time and energy." atmosphere on campus." Morr very rarely today have a 3-3 teaching 2-2, although 3-2 is a reasonable com- sephMMcShane'sstrategicplan—is Many faculty members believe is currently the vice president load," explained the Rev. Robert R. promise." only a small part of the reasoning be- the opportunity to do more research of USG, a chair on the Campus Grimes, SJ., dean of Fordham Col- Dr. Robert Moniot, associate dean hind the course load shift, according to may be the most important part of the Activities Board (CAB), the trea- lege at Lincoln Center (FCLC). "This at FCLC, said that with the change Grimes. course load shift surer of SPARC (Serial Program- was a necessary development" "Fordham should be able to attract "One of the things a lot of people 'The main benefit to professors is ming to Advance a Responsible FCLC's professors couldn't agree higher-quality faculty." He added: "In don't understand about professors that they will have more time to do Community), the president of more. die past we have often seen them at- in higher education is that there are research," Moniot said. 'It is very dif- PARty (Peers Advocating Re- "When I went to school, professors tracted away to other universities by a three parts to the job," Grimes said. ficult to teach three classes with the sponsibility), a member of the taught two courses per semester and 3-2 or lower course load" "There's teaching, there'sresearch and amount of preparation needed to do Senior Week Committee, and still do at someofthe best institutions," And while the change will go publication, and there's service [to the them well and also carry on an active because of his SPARC position, said Tom De Luca, associate chair of into effect simultaneously at FCLC institution]." research program." Morr also holds a seat on SABC. theapolitical science department at Lin- and Fordham College at Rose Hill According to Grimes, the initial Wakeman explained that "profes- According to the Office of coln Center and the director ofinterna- (FCRH), Rosemary Wakeman, as- focus of Fordham's 3-2 shift is on sors have a primary obligation to Undergraduate Admissions, the tionalintercultural studies. "The ideal sociate professor of history and urban making professors more available to do creative research in their field of student body at FCLC is cur- teaching load is 2-2, not 3-2—but 3-2 studies, is one of many Lincoln Cen- students outside of class and giving study," adding, "A 3-2 teaching load rently about 1,700, Information is a great advance." ter faculty members excited about the faculty more freedom to pursue re- will make this much easier." provided by the Office of Stu- He added that "teaching three long-term benefits for their campus search and publication. De Luca said that the shift will "[en- dent Leadership and Community courses per semester [forces profes- in particular "The 3-2 teaching load He explained that, especially at a Je- see COURSE LOAD pg. 04 Development shows there are currently more than 30 clubs at FCLC, opening up more than 130 leadership positions. Approxi- Faculty Senate pushes to extend benefits to domestic partners mately 89 names were reported to fill these positions, with 10 of McShane unwilling to stray from Church Policy them filling more than one. Some names were not reported and some positions are open, accord- By CHRISTINA SHANAHAN extended to legally domiciled tract and retain quality faculty very expensive." Jackaway said, ing to Morr. NEWS EDITOR adults, a category that includes and it is the just thing to do." "and for young faculty com- With the same few students domestic partners as well adult Gwenyth Jackaway, associ- ing out of graduate school, if involved in multiple capacities, FORDHAM—Should a gay dependent children and elder- ate professor of communication they're in a partnership, there a major concern is the fairness faculty member working at Ford- ly parents, the answer is yes. and media studies, said that she are many things that could' of budget distribution among stu- ham University receive benefits . "This is something the Uni- finds the University's current "sway their decision [of what dent groups. Budget requests for for his or her domestic partner? versity should do, regardless stance on extending benefits to school to teach at.]" She not- clubs are made to SABC, which According to Fordham's Admin- of the cost," said Bruce Berg, . legally domiciled adults to be ed that if a young, gay faculty votes on the allocation of funds. istration and the Catholic Arch- chair of the political science consistent with its position on member has to choose between According to the SABC guide- diocese, the answer is no. But, department at Rose Hill and other issues. "I think it's wrong, universities based on their lines in the student handbook, according to Fordham's Fac- of the Faculty Salary and Ben- but not surprising," she said. benefits packages, Fordham voting members of the Commit- ulty Senate, which unanimously efits Committee. "It would en- "When it comes to recruiting may be behind other schools, tee LEADERSHIP pg. 04 recommended thai benefits be hance Fordham's ability to at- new faculty, New York City is see BENEFITS pg. 03

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF SERVICE TO FORDHAM UNIVERSITY AT LINCOLN CENTER 02 NEWS 1 February 15,2007 I THE OBSERVER fordhamobserver.com NEWS IN BRIEF College enrollment stats show more female students than male By DIANA SCHIOPPI METRO: STAFF WRITER FORDHAM—Nationwide, nu- •New York State Sen. Carl Kru- merous data findings show that there ger wants you to turn off the iPod are more women than men enrolled and hang up the cell phone next in college today. According to the time you march cross Columbus National Association for College Avenue. Citing three deaths in Admission Counseling (NACAC), Brooklyn since September where many state education boards and re- victims unwittingly walked into searchers are worried that men are traffic" while distracted by a por- falling behind as women are soaring table electronic device, Kruger is in the world of education. Fprdham seeking to ban pedestrians in the enrollment services said that a simi- entire state from using such gad- lar trend can be seen at Fordham gets when crossing the street. University with last year's entering Reuters reports that while Kruger class being composed of 45 percent does not want to intrude on New male and 55 percent female. Yorkers' rights to multitask with Based on the article entitled "New their mp3 players, cell phones, and Gender Gap" from the NACAC, video games while they walk, he women's enrollment began to over- considers preoccupied pedestrians take men's in the early 1980s. Pa- a "nationwide problem." tricia Peek, director of enrollment services at Lincoln Center, said, "This has, in fact, been a national trend as reflected in the most recent NATIONAL: report from NACAC entitled the ..••••.' : Jenny PaikfflieObsemr 2006 State of College Admission." From left, Briana Soto (FCLC 2010), Jason Montoya (2010), Shiyanne Moore (2010), Cinderella Pierre (2009), and Erica Cajamarca •NASA is reviewing its medical Peek said that in the report, the as- (2010) hang out in the Student Lounge. and psychological testing for pro- sociation noted mat "mirroring the spective astronauts after 43-year- difference in enrollment between cially noticeable in the liberal arts time exercising, watching televi- cetta, FCLC, '07, said, "It is nice old Lisa Nowak was arrested on men and women, women submit- colleges as opposed to the business sion, playing video games or party- to see so many women pursuing an Feb. 5 for allegedly plotting to kid- ted (on average) about 58 percent of school which traditionally has typi- ing. education mat will hopefully lead nap and murder a romantic rival. college applications in 2004, com- cally enrolled more male students," The number of men attending to some really great leaders in the Nowak,'.who flew her first mis- pared to 42 percent for men." Peek said. college is still increasing, just not future." Buscetta added, "Al- sion into* space aboard the shuttle The NACAC stated that there are As the-percentages have varied as fast as the number of women, though I enjoy seeing more wom- Discovery last July, allegedly two ways to look at the gender gap. over the years, Fordham has seen a according to the NACAC article. en in the classroom, I do think it told Orlando police that she was According to the NACAC's recent steady increase in the numberofmen "Men still outeam women after col- would add to the educational ex- involved in a more than profes- report, one is in terms of college en- enrolling over the past three years. lege, taking the top jobs in most perience if there were more men sional, but less than romantic, re- . rollment and the other is in terms of The class of 2008 is composed of professions," the article stated. in the classroom." lationship with fellow astronaut students' educational achievement 41 percent male, the class of 2009 '1 think there are more women According to the NACAC, col- William Oefelein. She is accused The report also stated that many ed- is 43 percent male, and the class of than men in the classrooms," said leges are responding to the new of stalking U.S. Air Force Capt. ucational experts differ On the extent 2010 is 45 percent male, according Tom Chambers, FCLC '07. "It is gender gap. by trying to entice Colleen Shipman, who is believed and importance of the problem. to enrollment services. "Given the a unique experience to engage in- more young men to enroll by add- to be Oefelein's girlfriend, for two Peek stated that there are several national data, these percentages are telligent women in the classroom ing engineering programs, foot- months before her arrest. factors involved in explaining, why reasonable," Peek stated. setting. Women bring a perspec- ball teams or creating new Web this gender gap is occurring. "One NACAC data shows that in col- tive to classroom discussions that sites thatlists the careers colleges trend we have noticed is that some lege, more young women out- very often reflect not only an intel- believed would appeal to young male students have been opting to perform young men within many ligent understanding of die subject men. INTERNATIONAL: pursue technology based careers areas. According to the NACAC, matter, but their insight contributes However, Fordham has not that do not necessarily require a col- college women earn better grades, equally to the fact that women are been tweaking their applicant •After six helicoptet crashes in lege degree," she said. hold more leadership posts, spend just as smart - if not more so - than standards. According to Peek, a three week period leading up to Accordingto Fordham enrollment more time studying and earn more men," Chambers said. "Fordham does not have any gen- Feb. 8, military leaders in Iraq said services, a difference in the gender honors and awards. The NACAC Some students are conflicted der specific recruitment activities. they believe mat the increasingly balance of the applicant pool began stated that, while women excel in about the strong presence of wom- Our interests lie in recruiting a tal- frequent downing of U.S. copters in the early 1990s. "This was espe- academics, young men spend more en in the classroom. Danielle Bus- ented, qualified applicant pool." • suggests a shift in strategy for in- surgent fighters in the war-torn na- tion. According to American officials, Fordham and UMass introduce Brazilian exchange program for the rising helicdpter losses indicate that insurgents are beginning to business students focus more heavily on taking out aircraft than before. However, of- By MEAGHAN DILLON in Curitiba, she added. The proj- out of the business school of the be discouraged by the classes in ficials also stress that luck could be ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR ect is being funded by a $209,000 host university, noted Sternberg. Brazil being taught in Portuguese playing just as important a role as grant from the U.S. Department of At Fordham, it is sponsored by though, Sternberg said. But knowl- the insurgents' specific tactics in FORDHAM—As Fordham stu- Education's Fund for the Improve- the College of Business Admin- edge of the language is not required the success of recent attacks. dents begin to weigh their options ment of Postsecondary Education istration (CBA), she said. Stern- to apply for the program, according for studying abroad during the (FIPSE), according to Sternberg. berg is working closely with to Sternberg. "We're building an in- •Iran's leadership is responding 2007-08 school year, a new pro- She said that the program is for any Dean Catherine Einersen who tensive Portuguese language train- to increasingly aggressive rhetoric gram will be available for those Fordham student at either campus also directs the Global Learning ing component into the program," from the Bush Administration with interested in business, according who is interested in studying busi- Opportunities and Business Edu- she noted, adding that students will pointed words of its own. The na- to Dr. Janet Steinberg, assistant ness and qualifies for study abroad. cation (G.L.O.B.E.) program, begin a six to eight week intenstive tion's leader, Ayatollah AH Khame- professor of communications and Sternberg, a Rose Hill professor she said. Although the program Portuguese program in January be- nei, said on Feb. 8 that, if attacked media studies, who is heading the who grew up in Rio de Janeiro, Bra- is intended for business students, fore the Brazilian school year actu- by the U.S., his country would program at Fordham. Fordham zil and is fluent in Portuguese, said it is open to a wide range of stu- ally begins in March. strike American interests around will partner with the University of Laura Carey, FCLC '07, who is the globe. Massachusetts at Amherst and two "THE PROGRAM WILL SEND FOUR STUDENTS FROM FORDHAM AND majoring in economics and busi- While the White House has con- Brazilian universities for a bilateral ness administration said she "would tinued to deny that it has any plan exchange program for business stu- FOUR STUDENTS FROM UMASS TO TWO UNIVERSITIES IN BRAZIL, have loved to be in a program like to attack Iran, the military has re- dents. The program will send four that," although she is graduating. cently increased its presence in the students from Fordham and four AND FORDHAM AND (/MASS WILL EACH RECEIVE FOUR STUDENTS "We don't have that many pro- region—even outside • of the addi- students from UMass to two uni- grams for business students and I tional troops deployed to Iraq- versities in Brazil, while Fordham FROM THESE UNIVERSITIES IN EXCHANGE, STERNBERG SAID." think that adding another program sending another aircraft carrier into and UMass will each receive four would be a great idea," she said. the Persian Gulf. students from these universities in she was approached by Dr. Nina dents with an interest in learning The application process for Iranian and U.S. presidents, exchange, Sternberg said. Tassi, former associate vice presi- about Brazilian business, accord- the program is still being devel- Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and The program will go into effect dent of Academic Affairs, about ing to Sternberg. oped, according to Sternberg, but George W. Bush, have been clash- for Fordham students in the spring starting the exchange program. "Dr. In the program, the classes are it will be similar to the current ing diplomatically for months over of 2008 and for Brazilian students Tassi sought me out when she was taught in the language of the native study abroad application and Iran's continued efforts to enrich who are coming to study at Ford- approached in April 2006 by Dr. country, according to Sternberg. requirements. Since Sternberg uranium. Ahmadinejad insists his ham in fall 2007, Sternberg said: "It Paulo Cesar Motta from the Busi- "The host language, Portuguese, is the first person at Fordham to country is only seeking to develop is a two-sided exchange," she said, ness School at PUC-Rio," recalled is not one I am studying and I imag- be working on this project, the nuclear power as an energy source, "with two universities in the States Sternberg. Tassi knew Sternberg ine is generally inaccessible to most Study Abroad office is not fully but Bush has repeatedly suggested and two in Brazil." Each university through previous efforts of trying to business students," said Tom Stroll, informed of the details of the that Ahmadinejad is actually at- is sending four students abroad, to develop a Brazilian exchange pro- FCLC '09, who said he would not program, but will soon be able tempting to arm his nation with the Pontificia Universidadc Cat6li- gram, making Sternberg a logical join the program for that particular to answer questions that any stu- nuclear weaponry. ca do Rio de Janeiro (PUC-Rio), liaison for the program, she said. reason. dents have about applying, as the Jesuit university of Rio, and the All of the schools involved Students who are interested in ap- well as Sternberg herself, she Universidade Federal do Parana in the exchange program are run plying for the program should not said. • fordhanfiQbseryer.com TMEOBSERPK I February 15,2007 I NEWS 03 CALENDAR Big issues for a big election OF EVENTS ' By CASEY FELDMAN STAFF WRITER THU. FEB. 15 The Democrats on Iraq Birthright Two of the major Democratic 12:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. FCLC—With presidential hope- presidential hopefuls, former South fuls announcing (heir candidacy and Carolina Sen. John Edwards and cur- LL912 a myriaA of controversial issues rid- rent New York Sea Hillary Clinton, Sponsored by the Jewish Stu- ing upon the outcome of the 2008 both originally voted to authorize the dent Organization election, voters have much to think war in 2002 but now claim they real- about when choosing a candidate. ize their mistake, according to an As- THU. FEB. 15-FRI. For many Fordham College at Lin- sociated Press article. The article also FEB. 16 coln Center (FCLC) students, the reports that Clinton has promised Senior Portraits 2008 presidential election will be to end the war if elected president 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. the first in which they can vote, and in 2008 and Edwards has called for Student Lounge many of the pivotal issues will have a an immediate stop to the president's Sponsored by OSL&CD direct and profound effect upon their plan for escalation. lives. Illinois Sea Barack Obama, the THU. FEB. 22 only one of the major Democratic Chuck Kennedy/MCT Nicolas KhayatMACA With the newfound right to vote RAMbuction Junction... also comes the responsibility of mak- candidates opposed to the war since Sen. Hillary Clinton, D-NY Former Mayor of New York City Rudy ing an informed decision about which the early stages, said in a Web video What's Your Club's Function issues matter most The Observer and e-mail statement released on Jan. "Gay marriage should just happen ic that should be left up to the states All Day spoke to a number of FCLC students 16 that "we're still mired in a tragic already," concurred Dane Cotsonas, to decide. Plaza Level, South Lounge, in an attempt to discern which issues and costly war that should never FCLC '10. And Cassie Foote, also According to an article on gay. Student Lounge and Cafeteria may dictate the way they vote in have been waged" FCLC '10, agreed: "It's nobody com, a GLBT advocacy Web site, Atrium 2008, andtwo issues rose to the fore- else's business if gay people want to Clinton supports civil unions but Sponsored by United Student front of the debate. Below we look The Republicans on Iraq get married" not gay marriage. In addition to this, Government at what students and the major party For the most part, the Republican the article states, she supported the candidates are saying about the war presidential candidates are support- The Republicans on Gay Mar- Defense of Marriage Act during her Asia Night in Iraq and gay marriage. ive of the war in Iraq. Massachusetts riage husband's administration, which pre- 6 p.m. - 10 p.mi i . vents federal recognition of homo- Gov. Mitt Romney has expressed his Giuliani, who has stated that he Student Lounge and Cafeteria support for the president's plan to in- believes "marriage is between a man sexual matrimony. The article says THE WAR IN IRAQ Atrium FCLC on Iraq crease troop levels in Iraq, and Arizo- and a woman," does, however, sup- that she is, however, strongly op- Sponsored by APAC "I think we should set a timetable na Sea John McCain is a strong sup- port civil unions, according to an arti- posed to a constitutional amendment to get out of Iraq," said Brooke porter of Bush's views on the war. cle on FoxNews.com Romney is an banning gay marriage. Burdge, FCLC '10, and the majority In a Feb. 5 interview on Fox News opponent of gay marriage, according FRI. FEB. 23 of students interviewed agreed with program "Hannity and Colmes," to his campaign's Web site-where he FINALTHOUGHTS Winter Ball - "7 O'clock at Burdge mat the Iraq war is a detri- prospective candidate and former also expressed concern about "the 'I'm not really going to affiliate 30 Rock" ment to our country's economic and New York City Mayor Rudy Giu- collapse of the family." myself with either parly, although I The Rainbow Room at 30 diplomatic progress. liani voiced bis general agreement And while McCain personally op- consider myself a conservative," said Rockefeller Plaza "Iraq is a mess," said Francis Pas- with Bush's tactics in fighting the poses gay marriage, he feels that the Pastorelle, looking ahead to the elec- 7 p.m. -11 p.m. tortile, FCLC '10. Tmlookingfora war, but conceded that "we should issue should be left up to the states to tioa "There are a number of issues Sponsored by United Student president who will get us out of it and find a better solution to [it]." decide, reportedNewsweek. that are important to me." Government & Campus not get us into another mess." Burdge, turned off by the current Activities Board Political Science Prof. SusanBecks GAYMARRIAGE The Democrats on Gay Marriage Republican administration, said, "I believes Iraq is an important issue for FCLC on GayMarriage Obama has taken a position similar feel I will be more likely to vote as Portions of this calendar are provided students to focus on: "Iraq is draining The war may be the political sub- to Giuliani's, stating on his senatorial a Democrat" by the Office of Student Leadership everything about us—our country in ject receiving the most news cover- Web site that he personally believes Either way, it appears as though and Community Development terms of security, how we are viewed age, but the first issue the majority of marriage is between a man and a FCLC students recognize the im- in the world, and our economy." She Fordham students raised when asked woman, but that he also supports civ- portance of the upcoming elec- continued: "This is an issue that is what was important to diem was gay il unions and thinks the issue should tion and the profound impact its not going to go away for a very long marriage. . be left up to the states. outcome may have on the lives of CRIME BUTTER time." "I'm moderate... I definitely think Edwards' stance is close to young people. Because, in the end, Becks said she feels that the war gay people should be allowed to get Obama's, although it is generally "we're stuck with it," said Janine MON.JAN.29 has turned the country "upside married," said Marie Larson, FCLC believed that Edwards has a stronger Repka, FCLC '10. "The decisions The security supervisor at FCLC down" and will hence be a cardinal '10, who hails from the traditionally peronal opposition to gay marriage. people are making now are going to received a phone call at 7 p.m. from a issue as the election grows nearer. conservative state of Texas. He still, however, believes it is a top- affect us—it's our future." • female reporting cameras and record- ing devices in the ceiling of the 3rd floor women's bathroom in the Low- enstein building, reported Ed McEn- Benefits tee, operations manager for security services. The supervisor investigated ber of the Faculty Senate, said, the situation, which revealed nothing CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE "There was a general agreement "There was a general agreement among all near the ceiling, said McEntee, who among all concerned that 'le- reported that there were no devices Extending faculty benefits to gally domiciled adults' is more concerned that 'legally domiciled adults' is found. legally domiciled adults, includ- inclusive and, for a variety of rea- ing domestic partners, would be sons, therefore more desirable." more inclusive and, for a variety of reasons, MON.JAN.29 a step in the direction of keep- However, according Jo the min- An employee reported a stolen ing up with peer and aspirant utes from the December Faculty therefore more desirable." wallet on the. 11th floor of Lowen- schools like Georgetown, Uni-° Senate meeting, the Rev. Joseph stein at S p.m., said Ed McEntee, versity of San Francisco (USF), M. McShane, S.J., president of ing discriminated against because senate said that cost has not operations manager for security Columbia and New York Uni- Fordham University, will resist the of sexual orientation, and a wide- even entered into the discus- services. The employee had left her versity (NYU), faculty mem- recommendation of the Senate until ranging discussion gets all the sion at the level of senators yet. wallet on a copy machine, and when bers said. Georgetown and USF, New York State law requires Ford- aspects of this out in the open." "McShane isn't making the she' returned, she reported a stolen both Jesuit universities, extend- ham to offer benefits to domestic At the Jan. 26 meeting of the case that he's not presenting this credit card, McEntee said. Two un- ed faculty benefits to domestic partners. When asked if Fordham Faculty Senate, according to to the board of trustees because authorized purchases had been made partners following the imple- could implement the change with- Keller, the Senate resolved to cir- it's going to be to expensive, on the credit card, and the employee mentation of state legislation out being required by law, "Father culate a petition among the faculty he made the case that he's not reported the incident to the NYPD, that required the schools to do so. McShane answered that he was which will be sent to Governor El- going to present it to the board he said. Faculty sources said that the issue waiting for [New York] State, be- liot Spitzer and the New York State of trustees because he's doesn't was initially raised at Fordham two cause the Church and Archdiocese assembly, urging the state senate want to go against the Archdio- TUEJAN.30 years ago when faculty members are not willing to extend such ben- to enact legislation that mandates cese on this issue," Keller said. Someone removed six bottles of interested in seeking benefits for efits, and he is unwilling to break the extension of employee ben- Jonathan Cottle, FCLC '08, wine from the 12th floor lounge in their domestic partners approached with the Archdiocese on this," efits to legally domiciled adults, president of the Rainbow Al- the Lowenstein building between the Faculty Senate. The Faculty according to the Senate minutes. including domestic partners. liance, said that by not allow- 8 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., reported,Ed Senate and Faculty Salary and Catherine Spencer, assistant Michael Martin, Cameron ing benefits for domestic part- McEntee, operations manager for se- Benefits Committee brought the re- vice president for University mar- professor in the Law School ners, Fordham is perpetuating curity services. quest to McShane, who advised the keting and communications, said and faculty senator, offered some students' view of the representatives to change the rheto- on behalf of McShane, "At the perspective on the petition. Administration as close-mind- ric from "domestic partners" to the present time, the University is in "I assume the best way to get ed. "[The University] is not THU. FEB. 1 less controversial term "legally do- compliance with Federal, New the petition acknowledged projecting the atmosphere that A female was stopped at the- Low- miciled adults," sources said. Fac- York State, and local laws, nnd and acted upon is for it to this is an open place," he said. enstein security desk at 6:30 p.m. for ulty sources said they understood provides health coverage and come from people with per- Cottle also addressed the issue not having an ID, and became agi- this advice to mean that McSlumc medical benefits to the spouses of sonal connections to legisla- of making the University more tated at the security officer, said Ed was sympathetic to the request, Fordham University employees." tive leaders and the gover- prestigious by offering benefits: McEntee, operations manager far se- curity services^ The security super- Regnrding the rubric of "legally The Rev. Michael Tuctli, S.J., nor or their staffers," he said. "If the school can't attract a di- visor intervened, the student was domiciled adult," live Keller, as- professor of communication and Regarding the financial im- verse group of faculty; we're sociate chair of the linglish de- media studies, said, "We need to pact of domestic partner ben- not going to get as good of nn partment at Rose Hill and mem- make sure that people are not be- efitH, members of the fuculty education that we could."B • -soo CRIME BLOTTER po-.05 04 NEWS 1 February 15,2007 I THE OBSERVER fordhamobserver rom Commuters undaunted by Columbus Circle subway construction

By DANN^ ECHEVARRf A STAFF WRITER aims to address. The 59th Street/Columbus Circle complex is comprised of two in- MANHATTAN—Makeshift blue terconnected subway stations: the wooden walls, orange spray paint Eighth Avenue IND Line station, and yards of yellow" caution tape which services the A, B, C, and D placed throughout the 59th Street/ trains, and the Seventh Avenue IRT Columbus Circle subway complex Line station that services the 1 train. offer riders an inkling of the changes Roughly 150,000 people use the coming to the complex over the next complex daily, according to a press two years. release by Parsons Brinckerhoff Among the 44 subway stops that and Richard Dattner and Partners the Metropolitan Transportation Architects (PB/Dattner), the firms Authority-^(MTA) is rehabilitating contracted by the MTA to design the as a component of its $21,285 bil- rehabilitation. lion 2005-09 Capital Program, the The press release by PB/Dattner 59th StreefGohimbus Circle com- cites reorganization of turnstiles, plex will undergo extensive renova- new lighting, new signage and wider tions and additions well' into 2009, stairs as some of the planned objec- the MTA's filial proposed budget for tives of construction. Likewise, a 2007 confirmed. report released by the MTA in 2005 Signs inside the complex extend concerning capital improvement an apology by the MTA that the projects stated that the construction construction might "inconvenience" will restore transfer service to Co- subway riders^—a portion of whom lumbus Circle's long-unused center use the A, Bj C, D and 1 trains to island platform in the Eighth Avenue commute to Fordham College at Line station. The 59th Street-Columbus Circle subway station which is still under construction. Lincoln Center (FCLC). However, According to the MTA's 2007 final students and' faculty say that the proposed budget, the full rehabilita- aggregate expenses, the proposed complex has not been overly incon- unrelated to the complex's rehabilita- ongoing worichas not yet inconve- tion of the 59th Street/Columbus budget stated. The MTA's renova- venient, but he did call the temporary tion, Hill said the construction had in nienced (faeir daily commutes. • Circle subway complex is separated tions will include repairing structural plywood structures on the stations' no way affected her trips to FCLC. "Overall, I don't have a problem into four separate projects, costing a deficiencies in both stations, building platforms a "hindrance" because Similarly, Mark Mattson, an assis- with it," Isabel Castro, FCLC '07, total of almost $100 million: mak- more stairs on the stations' platforms, they restrict passenger movement tant professor and associate chair of said. She added that the only difficul- ing the complex accessible to riders removing "visual clutter" in the sta- Clark also said traces of what he the psychology department at FCLC ties she had recently encountered at with disabilities, consolidating and tions, and even installing new art- perceived to be asbestos and lead who commutes from the South Shore the Columbus Circle stop had been renovating employee facilities, re- work, the 2005 capital improvement dust throughout the complex were of Long Island, said that while the re- train delays, and Castro said they habilitating the Eighth Avenue Line report showed. "a little "disconcerting," particularly habilitation has forced him to use a were most likely a result of traffic station and rehabilitating the Seventh The beautification of the Colum- .when traveling with bis five-month- difference staircase, traveling to 59th and congestion—not the complex's Avenue Line station. bus Circle complex may come as a old daughter. Street/Columbus Circle has actually overhauls "Around six or so, mat's The two most expensive projects relief to some subway riders. "Aes- Brianria HilL an FCLC '07 com- gotten better in recent years. when rush hour is, so they delay us focus on bringing both the Eighth Av- thetically, it is a mess," said Andrew muter student, said she had not come '3've been making this trip for on other stops before they reach 59th enue Line and Seventh Avenue Line Clark, assistant professor of French, across any obstacles at the Columbus 18 years," Mattson said, "and Street" stationsinto a "state of good repair," who takes the A and C trains to Co- Circle complex mat really "altered my experience is that "the sta- Delays are one of the many issues and together they account for more lumbus Circle. her day too much." Other than occa- tion and service in general have that the complex's rehabilitation than 85 percent of the rehabilitation's Clark said the rehabilitation of the sional delays, which she believes are improved over that time." • Course load Leadership CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE lost manpower at FCLC will be cov- ered in die fall has yet to be presented CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE mittees such as Senior Week and a Fordham Ambassador, and also able] professors to focus better on This has led some students, as well as Spring Fling are submitted to serves on the Presidential Advi- their teaching, writing and counsel- even some faculty, to express anxiety tee do not vote on budgets for SABC by the Office of Student sory Committee on Security, the ing." He continued, explaining how at the prospect of more adjunct pro- the programs they are involved Leadership and Community De- Senior Advisory Committee, and this would benefit FCLC students in fessors filling curriculum gaps in the with. The Committee consists of velopment. "I'd prefer those funds the Senior Week Committee. both the short and long-term: "It is fall, but Grimes says mat he is hop- 11 voting members and two non- were accessed through Student Wenzel said that she does not good for students because they get ing to avoid a noticeable increase in voting. Current voting members Government," Witt said. "They believe it is an issue of a lack of r«xe focused and better-prepared pro- adjuncts at FCLC. represent somewhere between are student funds and should be student involvement. "We have fessors." And having Fordham profes- "We expect tiiat we will be hiring five and ten SABC-funded clubs controlled by a group that is ac- the same students who want to sors become better known in the fields additional faculty... [but] we want to collectively, according to infor- countable to students; that office do so much," she said. As far as through research and publication will have less adjunct dependency," he mation provided by the Office of is not. But then again, student the impact on the lives of these 'f enhance] the reputation of me degree said, adding that the school will also Student leadership and Commu- government is not currently struc- students goes, "We are always students receive." be looking at how effectively it is nity Development. According to tured to handle those events, be- encouraging of them to make Faculty at FCLC could see a reduc- scheduling classes. "As diis unfolds the SABC guidelines in the stu- cause there is not enough student sure studies are first," Wenzel tion in their course loads as soon as this I dunk we'll get a much better idea dent handbook, voting members involvement to do so." said. fall, according to die planned phase- of where we need die additional fac- of the Committee do not vote on With the same few students Shehadeh said she does not in outlined in Himmelberg's mono, ulty." budgets for the programs they controlling most student activi- know how the issue will be ad- though the shift won't be permanent Looking at the overall transition, are involved with. ties, additipnal concerns include dressed but that the way in which for every professor affected initially. Moniot said he was optimistic. 'Ter- Witt, FCLC '07, said, how- the lack of diversity in the pro- student leaders are recruited and The 3-2 course load will be permanent haps initially diere may be more ad- ever, "I would argue that the fact grams and the burnout of students the way in which they are shown for aUuntenured faculty—except those juncts, but in die long run more full- that everyone is familiar with one who are overextended, Witt said. appreciation needs to be drasti- who are applying for tenure during time faculty will be hired to maintain another on SABC has led to less Along with being USG president, cally changed. She said that two the current semester—starting with a low adjunct to full-time ratio," he scrutiny on budgets submitted Witt is also a Resident Assistant events are being planned through the 2007-08 academic year. However, said. by members of the Committee." in McMahon Hall and vice presi- the Student Affairs committee most tenured faculty who receive die He added that die four-year phase- He added, "It's more a matter of dent and co-captain of the Soc- under USG that targets over- course reduction this fall will tempo- in should "buy time to hire new fac- trust and routine than some kind cer Club. "I would never say that whelmed student leaders. "USG rarily revert to 3-3 in die 2008-09 year. ulty as die total number of reductions ofconspiracy." these positions have negatively is trying to alleviate the pres- According to both die strategic plan increases." But Keith Eldredge, dean of affected me," he said. "However, sures and the stress that come and Himmelberg's memo, all Hill-time De Luca also feels confident FCLC students, said that he believes the strain on my studies and, at with being an overwhelmed stu- arts and sciences faculty will be perma- will be able to manage the change in budgets submitted by members times, my sanity cannot be de- dent leader, but the change itself nentiy transitional to 3-2 in 2011. die fall. If die number of adjuncts of the Committee receive more nied." Witt said that several stu- cannot come from USG; it needs With some professors moving to 3- does increase, he said, "I doubt that scrutiny because those students dents in recent years have been to come from the top," she said. 2 in a matter of mondis, an immediate it would do so dramatically." He also are expected to know more about forced to drop their activities as a The Office of Student Lead- concern facing die administration is added "die real issue is smart and the budgets. result of being overworked. ership and Community Devel- replacing die lost manpower. "We're appropriate use of adjuncts," saying Dorothy Wenzel, director of When it comes to the question opment has sponsored a pro- going to have to be very careful be- tiiat hiring adjunct professors to fill die Office of Student Leadership of why more students are not in- gram known as FUEL (Fordham cause this is very expensive," Grimes specific academic niches is usually and Community Development, volved, Tamara Shehadch, FCLC University Emerging Leaders) explained. "Over four years we're cut- beneficial to botfi die University and said that an advantage that a '07, said that the fact that FCLC over the years that focuses on ting, by one-sixth, die amount of fac- students. Committee member who is ac- is a small campus with a large cultivating student leaders on ulty resources." And while, come die fall semester, tive in a club may have is that commuter population makes it campus but Witt says that to Moniot sees similar cliallcngcs in some students may be watching for a they know what the Committee difficult to attain the necessary his knowledge, this program the transition: "The main drawback is sudden clumgb in dicir FCLC experi- is looking for when considering number of active students. She- has not garnered much inter- financial... More faculty will bo needed ence, Grimes is planning oh a quieter a budget. She added, however, hadch is currently the secretary est from the student body. to maintain die same set of course of- Inmsjtion. "I would hope in one sense that other club leaders are invited of USG, treasurer of the Middle "I don't want to let stu- • j- firings and ocrvc die SJUIIC number of diat students don't sec much effect to the Committee meeting when Eastern Students Association dents off the hook," Witt said, .''.students." .V;. / ••.•."• ,' ' Except duit they find that the faculty submitting a budget proposal to (MESA), treasurer of PARty, a "I honestly feel that students However,despite (he urgency of the arc more available to them." • better present their case. Commuting Students Association could do a lot more to make our situation, a specific plan for how die Budget proposals for com- (CSA) general assembly member, campus better," • fordhamobserver.com THE OBSERVER I February 15,2007 i NEWS 05

FCLC holds Ignatian Awareness CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 looked up in the directory and the Week; Drance discusses 'The Great problem was resolved, he reported. Sat Feb. 3 Divorce' as part of week's events A resident oh the fourth floor of McMahon Hall reported eggs being By MASSEEL TORRES is important to him, because lectual value." Drance also thrown at their door and a swastika CONTRIBUTING WRITER the novel changed his life spoke about his work and its drawn on the door in grey duct tape during the summer between relation to God and Ignatian between the hours of 2 a.m. and 9 FCLC - With'an audience his junior and senior years heritage. "God has ,been a am., said Ed McEntee, operations of about 25 people, George of college. "It was very cap- very important component in manager for security services. No one Drance S. J., artist in residence tivating to me. It was very the process of developing the residing in the affected dorm room at Fordham, discussed bis lat- moving, and I said someday play with the actors," Drance was Jewish, reported McEntee. est directing project, a play this would make a great piece said. He noted that the actors called "The Great Divorce," of theatre," he said. have gone through transfor- Wed. Jan. 31-Hue. Feb. in relation to Ignatian spiritu- According to Drance, the mations and have been able 6 ality on Jan. 30. The spiritual main idea of the play is peo- to overcome difficult situa- A female student reported being exercises of Saint Ignatius are ple's incapability of letting go tions in which they or their harassed by another male student be- meant for people to examine of the things that are not real- family members have blamed tween the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., every method of conscious; ly important in life. Drance God for what has happened to who was staring at her in the elevator, meditation, contemplation of gave the example of the char- them. "Through the medium said Ed McEntee, operations manag- vocal and mental prayer and acter of the bishop, who is of the text, [the actor playing er for security services. The incident other spiritual activity, Drance is being reported to Residential Life, he said. said. "For just as taking a "People's response to the play is very particular... walk, journeying on foot and running are bodily exercises; very often people say, 'you know I was really kind we call [the] spiritual exer- INTERESTED cises everyway of preparing of amazed and disturbed in a realty thrilling kind of and dispensing the soul, to rid itself of all inordinate at- way by this story.'" tractions," he said. IN "The Great Divorce," an ad- attached to his own thoughts the character of Reginald] has aptation of C.S. Lewis' novel, and instead of admitting he been able to experience per- directed by Drance opened is wrong, the bishop prefers haps how he had blamed God Thu., Jan. 18 at the Magis to go back to a grey town and... let go of some of that," Theater Company. After un- where he is well thought of. Drance said. POLITICS? dergoing a lengthy process "He prefers to be an authority "The purpose of Ignatian with the adaptation of Lew- in hell, than just a comrade in Awareness Week is to help is' novel into a play, Drance heaven," Drance said. students with Ignatian spiri- said, "People's response to Maddie Felix, FCLC "08 tuality," said Joan Cavanagh, the play is very particular... said, "I really got a lot of what associate director of Campus very often people say, 'You he talked about, picking mate- Ministry. "Ignatius spiritual- WRITE FOR know, I was really kind of rial, picking pieces that speak ity is at the heart of what we amazed and disturbed in a re- to you, just like this [story] do here at Fordham, and each ally thrilling kind of way by spoke to him." Felix added event has been an attempt this story.'" "everything he said, whether to help students understand Drance said that the rep- you are spiritual or not, is in- a little bit better what Igna- NEWS! resentation of Lewis' novel teresting to hear...for the intel- tius spirituality is." •

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STAFF EDITORIAL More student involvement needed

In -this issue of the Observer, it was reported t five minutes to list all the gripes we have with Discover an activity that interests you. If one doesn't that out of 130 student clubs and organizations this school. But there is no use in complaining exist, create it yourself. at Fordham College at Lincoln Center, there are if we aren't willing to do something about it, get In addition to Ibis report signaling a lack of student only 90 student leaders. Our undergraduate school involved, and be the change we wish to see at participation, it also serves to show that the same few consists of just 1,700 students. That means less than Fordham. students are acting in multiple leadership capacities. 20 percent of students occupy leadership roles, For many of us, this may seem arduous, if This is not only burdensome for those individuals while the same small minority group occupies not impossible. Between jobs, internships, and who also must find a way to balance school and multiple positions. commuting, it can often feel as though the only work commitments, but it is also potentially unfair This is problematic for many reasons. For thing we have time to do on campus is go to class. to student clubs that don't have members who one thing, it signifies a major lack of student But college life, whether you are a resident or a wear several leadership hats. If you are a leader of involvement on campus. Without student commuter, should be about more than just books, just one club, as opposed to two, or in some cases participation, the voice of the student body goes exams, and papers. There should be a community three or four or five, you might find it harder to get unheard. Thus, we, the students, have very little at our school in which we can feel important. funding approved for your budget simply because say in what goes on at the school in which we are Student affairs and activities should be more you don't have the safety of having a vote in the not only investing years of our life and thousands cognizant of that. They should be thinking of new Student Activities Budget Committee. of our dollars, but also the school whose name will ways to reach out to all students and making club If you think there is something wrong with this be forever linked with our academic reputations. hours more flexible so they can be more conducive system, do something about it Let your voice Mahatma Gandhi once said, "Be the change you to each individual. be heard. If you don't, then you run the risk of wish to see in the world." It is also up to us, as students, to make our time having someone else's voice misrepresent you. It probably wouldn't take most of us more than here as rich as possible. Find ways to get involved. Be the change you wish to see at Fordham. •

Reasons why I will end up alone (9) Because I remind you of that person you secretly hate. By RayDademo someone tells me that I look the Duncan Hines container. the rat from "Charlotte's Opinions Editor "just like" their cousin so-and- , Whether you view And then it hit me. Web." You're disagreeable so, my blood freezes. And I them as well-meaning or Marisa had given an and sly and you live in your don't even know the guy! Still, downright malicious,, people explanation, but usually no own filth. What could be a When I weighed more than I know this much is true: cousin use comparisons as a code one is called to task for these more perfect comparison? I do now, strangers used to so-and-so, must be one ugly, to express what they really comparisons. We can never get a big kick out of telling ugly peg-legged individual. think of you. If someone say, for sure, what these 3) If I were a shoe, what me that I reminded them of Once, my father's secretary compares you to Clay Aiken, wackos mean by "You look kind of shoe would I be? Nathan Lane. I have searched told me I was "just like" her they might think you have a just like Forest Whitaker," My top fag-hag: You would the depths of my conscience neighbor. "He's fair," she said. seedy psychosexual disorder because we never bother to be a strappy sandal. Something and can find no reason to call "Like you. And he's very, very or, perhaps, the physique ask them. We're too afraid. slight and shiny—with a high, this a compliment. Who would funny. Oh! And he does theatre." of a Perdue Cornish game It's awkward, after alt, to ask thin kitten heel and a little even think that an appropriate hen. This code is truth, even a stranger, "What do you mean puff of marabou on the toe. thing to say? No one—and Let's dissect this. There though it's pushed through the by that? I'm not even black." Something slutty-looking that I mean no one—wants to are three adjectives doing prism of flattery. The person I wanted to go back in breaks after five minutes of have sex with Nathan Lane. the heavy lifting in this quotation: "fair," "funny" and making the comparison would time. I wanted to. ask all walking in it. You put on a big I am inevitably hurt and "theatrical." I'm convinced that probably claim to enjoy Clay those people who compared show, but you fracture easily. offended whenever someone we all know what she meant Aiken, that the comparison is me to Nathan Lane what had begins a sentence with "Oh! by "does theatre." For her to complimentary. Ultimately, possessed them to say such a 4) If I were a cartoon You look just like..." In include that nugget of info, her it's the recipient who can thing. What, exactly, did they character, who would I be? all my years of living, that neighbor must be rip-roaringly, take it or leave it. But what mean by it? Was it my double My dear friend: Every time sentence has never ended kimono-wearingly, sequins- makes people say such things? chin and blaringly nasal I watch "Cinderella," I'm well. I have been compared to squirting'Out-his-ears gay. Last week, online, my voice? Or was it my inner reminded of you. You know the some pretty atrocious people. There's no other reason for it. top fag-hag, Marisa tried to Tony-Award-worthy sparkle? scene where Lady Tremaine, To name a few: puffy "Funny" could mean any help me answer this question. To find out what people Cinderella's stepmother, is in Matthew Broderick, unfunny number of things. Paired) meant by their comparisons, I bed, in the dark, stroking her John Ritter, ultra-annoying with theatrical, however, MREESA: Want me to think compiled this little quiz. Feel cat? And all you can see are Paul Lynde, both David Gest I'm led to believe it means of comparisons for you? free to use these five questions her evil eyes glowing in the and Liza Minnelli, Hannibal either "obnoxiously shrill" RayDademo: If you like. around your dorm room, darkness? That always makes Lecter and one of those geriatric (if he's under 40) or "bitterly MREESA: Kay, don't get dinner table %r prison library me think of you—that... Muppets who sit in the balcony sardonic" (Tf he's over 40.) offended. as a means of finding out what and Ursula, the Sea Witch. and badmouth everything. And And "fair" is a non-word, RayDademo: Okay, everyone really thinks of you. these are just the celebrities. which I choose to interpret as MREESA: Jared from the 5) If I'd been born a The only thing worse "big and fat"—just because I Subway commercials. 1) If I were a food, what member of the opposite sex, than being compared to an have issues with projection, RayDademo: Oh. My. God. kind of food would I be? what would my name be? ugly famous person is being There! Now we have a clearer Stop. My ex-boyfriend: I think My suitemate: Your name compared to an ugly civilian. picture of the man I'm "just you would be London Broil. would be Barb and you For years, my best friend, like." I can picture him now, Defending her claim, London Broil or some other big would have giant breasts. You Allie, told me that I bore an sashaying down the driveway Marisa forged onward, piece of meat. Why? Because would shop at Ann Taylor uncanny resemblance to a in a housecoat and scuffles, explaining the all-too-painful it's filling, it's not to be taken and organize bake sales and boy she knew. When I finally bending over provocatively to reasons for linking me to lightly...no one really snacks always be sweeping into met this creature, my shock fetch his paper. During the day, Jared, the Subway freak. on it. It's a full meal, really.,, rooms • with macaroons and and outrage were completely he teaches 'music "af the local and afterwards, you need a nap. Tang. Your husband's name bottomless. He looked like middle school and gabs with the MREESA: He's sensitive would be Don. Back in high something that should be female teachers when they're on like ii fill girl about his weight 2) If I could be school, he was captain of the stored for stem-cell research, break in the lounge. When he's ' like you. I'm just saying you anyone from a childhood footbull team and he only I can never wrap my alone though, lie has nothing to both like to be really thin...and story, who would I be? married' you because you mind around these kinds of do but absently flick his man- at one time both of you wore My.best friend: Oh, God. tricked him into it. By poking comparisons because I only sec boobs and cut frosting out of plaid mid were husky. Arc you kidding? Tcmpleton, holes in your diaphragm. • the damage they do. Whenever forihamobsefverxom IHEOBSEKVEg February 15,2007 OPINIONS 07 THE OBSERVER Facility Corner By JASON MORRIS on several levels. The many victims in camps, should there not be a country Hebrew and Arabic. Israel has hun- wVSST. PROFESSOR OF BIOLOGY DEP'T. OF NATWUL SCIENCES this crisis include the Palestinians of that will always offer Jews a safe ha- dreds of thousands of Arab citizens, the West Bank and Gaza, who suffer ven? Muslim, Christian, and Druse. There . The Observer recently published an economically arid personally under The early modem Zionists who are Arab political parties that have article, 'Teace Be Wife You, Israel," the current system, and the Israeli settled in Israel at the end of the 19th ministers serving in the Israeli parlia- (Feb 1) that is unfair and inaccurate. people, who are under constant threat and fiie first half of the 20th centuries ment There are Arab political parties 113 West 60th Street The article was printed under abizarre of murder and war. from their neigh- (imder Ottoman and British rule)were represented by members of the Israeli pseudonym, "Chimera," in deference bors and from Palestinian rockets and well aware of the problems of replant- parliament Many of these politicians New York, New York 10023 to the author's fears of being reported suicide bombers. None of this has any ing a Jewish state in a land where rela- moraUy and materially support Israel's (212)636-6015 "to an Israeli authority" because "they bearing on Israel's right to exist tively few JewshadlivedsincetheRo- enemies and advocate the overthrow Fax:(212)636-7047 are capable of doing anything that For more than three thousand years, man era (though communities of Jews of fiie country. Nevertheless, they de- promotes their cause." Surely it is not Jews have had a unique culture with a always existed in the land when they bate; they vote; they legislate. Is there Editor In Chief beyond the editorial judgment of the distinct religion, literature, music, and could). We should not forget that there another country that would tolerate Nancy Young Observer to suspect that an author's customs. Since the Roman conquest had never been an Arab state in the this situation? paranoia might reflect a warped and exile two thousand years ago, land either. Israel did not supplant any Israel is a nation of laws;—a na- Mtnaging Editor world-view. Jews have dreamed and prayed of a Arab state, nor was there a distinctive tion that respects human rights and ' Adam Kaufman return toiheir own country. Some of Palestinian national identity calling The article begins with a description has demonstrated time and again its file inspiration for this Zionism was out for a homeland. One foreign im- of Palestinian suffering in the West willingness to trade land for peace. News Editor religious- - as it says in Psalm 137, Bank, and although mat is a story If Israel were not, it would have fol- Christina Shanahan 'If I forget you, Jerusalem, may my that has been told many times, it is present-day Israel and Palestine from lowed the Saudi example in the first right hand wither." Some was more an important story, and one the world Rome to the Crusader states to the Ot- Gulf War when the Saudis expelled Opinions Editors national and political Should there should not forget The major factual tomans, to, finally, Great Britain After 600,000 Yemenis because Yemen RayDademo not be a single country in the world problems in the articleoccur later. Chi- World War IL the United Nations at- supported Saddam Hussein's invasion where Jewish culture is the normative tempted to partition the land between of Kuwait But Israel has a terrible Features Editor mera admits the difficulty of attaining culture? Where Hebrew is spoken in Arab and Jewish populations. Pales- problem—it is fighting against anony- Alina Soler objectivity in judging the Israeli-Arab fiie streets? Where Jewish history is tinian identity (as a distinct identity mous terrorists who will not recognize taught in school? Further, given the within the Arab world) dates back to or compromise with the state of Israel, Arts & Culture Editors no attempt at objectivity at alL world's indifference to and partici- 1948 when all fiie neighboring Arab who fire rockets at civilian centers, Chadner Navarro Either "the Palestinians," Chimera pation in millennia of pogroms and states immediately declared war on who use their own families as hu- writes, "are file victims, or you believe persecutions, given the failure even the new state of Israel. To this day, man shields as they store armaments literary Editor that the state of Israel has a right to of fiie United States to accept Jewish almost none of these states have offi- in their houses, who bomb buses and Marissa Jumark exist as a Jewish national homeland, refugees during the Holocaust or to cially made peace with Israel or even cafe's and discos. How is Israel to which in itself, requires a Jewish ma- divert any ofWorid War IPs war effort admitted its right to exist Neverthe- defend itself? What would the critics Sports Editor jority at the expense of the indigenous toward liberating the concentration less, Israel has two official languages, of Israel have fiie country do? • KranHefa Palestinianpopulatioa"This is wrong

Copy Editor Julian Oquendo American Ballet Theatre MtWriothe Layout Editor Joe Davidson 2007 Spring Season • May 14 through July 7 • Metropolitan Opera House Editor:

Photo Editor. February 5,2007 . ' :

Dear Editor, Online Editor *• Dan Koday The author of the pseudonymous "Peace Be With You Israel" ac- Assistant Editors . knowledges that she was "wholly Lauren Dollard (Features) supportive" of the Palestinian cause Nicole Boumas-Nay (Arts & Culture) before moving to Bethlehem, where Luke Teegarden (Arts & Culture) 4 her sympathies have been deepened Craig Calefate (Photography) by witnessing the tragic effects of Charlotte Canner (Photography) the Palestinian insurgency and the Brooke Burge (Layout) Israeli counterinsurgency. If it is Callie Fisher (Layout) historical enlightenment and fuller understanding that she wanted, she Layout Staff might have been better off staying Kelsey Butler, Susanna Lee, Lauren home and reading a few books. One Avellino, Shaina Dupuy, Russell Castro would never know from her article that this is a struggle between two Faculty Adviser peoples for the same land in which Dr. Elizabeth Stone all of the blame is hardly to be found on one side. Faculty Graphics Adviser Contrary to her claims, Israel is Joshua Penrod INTRODUCING A SPECIAL OFFER FOR The power, drama and not breaking down from within and atn|eticisrn of •4 Q /Jflj VCAD All flOl American assuredly is a democracy. The wall Faculty Polling Unit Adviser I O"" fcif 1 Cr\it ULI/O > Ballet Theatre are brought was constructed to contain suicide Dr. Patrick Moynihan bombers who proliferated after Yas- center stage by the world's greatest dancers, many of whom are ser Arafat launched the second inti- Business Manager 18 to 29 years old. Celebrate the brilliance and creativity of fada in 2000, leaving on the table a Anthony Hazell your age group by making your own 18/29 Club subscription. peace plan negotiated under Presi- dent Clinton which would have Public Notice: Select 3 or more petfprmanpes to ABjps 2007 given most of the West Bank back to the Palestinians. This is only the or reproduced without the most recent example of the unwill- expressed written consent of The Observer editorial board. ingness of the Palestinian leadership to make the sort of compromise that le Student Voice of Fordham University at would save their people from mis- cry. Suicide bombings are recog- Lincoln Center, published on alternate Thursdays For IrifdMation'on how to join tHe 18/29 Club, visit during tho academic year nized as crimes against humanity Printed by Expedi Printing, Brooklyn, N.Y. Foi w w w. a bt. W i/1829ci u b or can fl2.362.6000 in international humanitarian law, contact Information visit fotdhamobservercom What does it say about the perpe- trators that blowing up a Passover seder and teenagers in a pizza parlor Letters to the Editor, Opinions articles, and Editorial policies became their preferred tactic? •; Letters to the Editor stoutd be typed oilicinl titles, and year of gnuluation (if Iriiin llie same individual on one topic, of Die views held by the editorial board of mid sent to The Observer, Fnrdliam Uni- applicable) for verification. If submitters The Observer reserves the right ID edit all 'flic Observer or Fordliam University. Sincerely yours, versity, 113 West 60th Street, Room 40H, liiil to include this information, the edito- letters and submissions for content, clarily The Editorial is the opinion held by rial board will do so at its own discretion. and length. NwYork, NY I(X>23, ore-mailed to a majority of'llie Observer's edito- Edward Bristow obs:[email protected]. Length should 'Hie Observer lias the right to. withhold Opinions articles and commentar- rial board Tlic editorial is in no way a Professor of History' ,,; .< ' not exceed 200 words, All letters must be any submissions from publication and ies represent the view of their authors. reflection of the views held by signed itnd include contact information, will not consider more than two letters These articles are in no way a reflection Fordham University, 08 OPINIONS 1 February 15,2007 I THE OBSERVER forcibamobserver.com Have I met you before... or ami mistaking you for another avatar? I felt a pang of alarm (and, to be hon- est, slight amusement) as I was watching a recent epi- sode of "The Tyra Banks Show" about a man ob- sessed with ANGELICA the com- puter game BfflJNETTI "World of Warcraft." WoW is an online role- playing game in which players travel a virtual landscape, fight- ing monsters and earning rewards. Banks' guest revealed that her fiance had become so consumed with this virtual experience that he would play about 40 hours a week, sometimes ignoring his crying child for the sake of the computer game. . Hey, I understand where this guy's coming from. Battling drag- Russ Martonis/The Observer ons and night elves is not an easy Battling dragons and night elves, the gamer enters the "World of WarcrafL" But can he ever get out? job. Trying to surpass dark portals is so time consuming that there erators and truck drivers, and those tween using simulators to conserve ing a face-to-face conversation). abilities, not to mention the funni- simply isn't enough time to feed simulators of mechanical vehicles resources (both human and eco-^ There's something eerie about est "Yo Mama" jokes. I might even our babies. Tyra apparently thought being used as a cost conserving nomic) and becoming immersed" being able to meet our lawyers and give myself a pair of wings. You that the solution to this problem means for testing durability. While in a virtual world. Simulators for business associates in the virtual and I won't ever have to settle for was to shred the poor man's game these are certainly positive uses of things such as motor vehicles will world. After all, what is a business our God-made selves; we can have discs. I felt pacified... until I began virtual reality, there is something be turned off after the experi- meeting without a proper hand- perfection. I guess the fact that this to think about what would happen unsettling about the other aspect of ment the same way that I turn off shake? News articles about the perfection isn't real should make if the spread of virtual reality be- virtual reality: the settling of 'vir- my game system after a round of adoption of virtual reality for busi- no difference. comes so overwhelming that we tual worlds.' "Crazy Taxi," but I feel as if a vir- ness practices have stated that virtu- I think that a total absorption in a would all become so immersed Many ordinary people and busi- tual community is never turned al employee meetings and business game world is frightening. To me, in the virtual world that we suffer nesses are turning to virtual reality off. Purchasing property in these conferences could benefit from the it signifies the possibility of hu- 1 complete alienation from the real programs, such as "Second Life," virtual worlds,, making connec- ability of avatars to express emo- manity eventually slipping away. world, I mean, what if Tyra doesn't to help them network and adver- tions to other users and attending tions. That's about as comforting Virtual reality is, after all, the easy make it to our game discs in time, tise. Wikipedia describes "Second virtual events (such as 'live' music as telling me that my angry smiley way out for those of us who can- and human connections virtually Life" as a virtual world which, us- concerts in "Second Life") implies face on AIM could convey my fury not be satisfied with the real world. cease to exist? ers or "residents" visit "almost as if a great investment of time. So in just the right way. Don't get me wrong. I, too, enjoy Lately, I've been hearing about it were a real place." Users explore when will we have time to make Yet another comforting aspect of battling evil dragons and some- the advent of advanced virtual re- the world, buy goods ('property') actual connections with the people Virtual reality is that I won't ever times pretending to be someone ality into areas such as entertain- from one another, meet other us- around us? After experiencing how have to develop myself as an indi- I'm not But, I also like human ment, business and medicine. I ers and 'socialize.' Socialize? Isn't easy it is to make a connection with vidual because my avatar can be the eye contact and being able to hold admit there are some virtual reality it funny that socialization used to other users via typing away in vir- perfect being. If I was an avatar, I'd hands with my date. I mean, let's programs out there being used for mean having interactions with oth- tual reality, we might not even feel make myself look like a model. I'd face it, avatars might be nice to look instructive purposes, such as those er human beings? like putting effort into the outdated be an awesome guitar player, and I at, but it can't compare to embrac- used to train aviation aircraft op- There is a great difference be- ways of communication (i.e. hav- would have exceptional bargaining ing our human companions. • Religious Shackles Most of my They don't hate Catholics, but when her parents' suspicion with laughter, riage, ifhe were to choose to seek her breaking to see that two people who girlfriends' push comes to shove it is mandatory which makes me a certified smooth parents' approval. This isn't a Shake- genuinely want to be with each oth- parents have for her to marry within her religion. operator (with awful pronunciation). spearean play where the critical er, unlike other pieces of human de- no canons While osier friends call to tell me Salma is beyond ecstatic. It's been barrier for the star-crossed lovers is bris mat have no limitations on who restricting how their boyfriends are diabolical, two years and she still checks herself hate for the other's family. Religion, they should love, stand worlds apart. them in the insignificant pieces of human de- in the mirror compulsively and her customs and cultural background are She feels that she can't be with him dating world. bris, Salma calls me for the usual, legs bounce anxiously all the way to the crucial things at stake here. To because of her religion. I feel that Thriving on "let's devise a plan for me to sneak bis house. I think of how much I hate me, another problem is her complic- she can't be with him because she this free- out.. I need to see my baby tonight" having to lie to her parents, especially ity to the very institution she claims has chosen to conform, hence relin- dom, my And so I get myself ready for my after they give me such a warm wel- to despise and her refusal to choose quishing her rights as an individual. friends tend real life episode of "Prison Break." come every time I visit their home. between appeasing her parents and Salma doesn't have to renounce the to change "He rented a movie and he's But seeing that chipper, wide-eyed the man she has fallen in love with. essence of who she is to be with their men making me dinner," she'll tell look on her face and thinking about This is a situation I have no correct him. I believe she has to look for *. more than me in what's almost a whisper. all the other friends whose despicable answer for. When my naive friends happiness on her own terms, not her GAYLEEM they change "So at what time did you say you boyfriends are pissing them off while mention their problems (i.e. their parents'. By rebelling (i.e. sneaking their socks. think you can scoop me up?" Salma's is cooking her dinner, I put boyfriend did not pick them up the out), she's culpable because she's AGUILAR I've met so Her words' grow faint toward my ethics aside, report to Langley phone or did not show up on time) not owning up to her own freedom. many of their the end, a clear sign one of her and rush off to save a fellow agent my automatic answering system will Is love really worth bringing "boy toys" sibling guardians or parental war- imprisoned by religious shackles. say something like, "once a player shame to her parents by neglecting that I no longer bother getting to dens must have been passing by. Salma is in love. Seeing that they always a player" or "oh, you can do years of tradition? If Salma feels like know them. During our girl-talk, "I'll pick you up at 7 sharp!" I say. make it work despite their religions so much better!" but what should the she has really found a love that's true I've simply learned to nod as my "So what movie is it that we're sup- and despite having to keep their re- programmed response for Salma be? and not just capriciousness, then her mind wanders off trying to match the posedly watching... just in case they lationship a secret from her parents "Disown your parents and convert... parents should find it in their hearts face with the name I can't remember. ask me?" I often find myself also in this "Romeo and Juliet" sort of you know you love Christmas!" Then to forgive her and support a decision All of these ladies enjoy their sov- whispering at the other end of the line. way makes me feel that love, rather again I can say, "You're reinforcing that will make her happy. At this ereignty; all except my best friend It's crucial to know all tlio details than math, is the universal language. the very basis of this oppressive Pa- point, she's just a complacent and Salma, whose boyfriend is the only so that nothing can infiltrate the care- Unfortunately, this love has major triarchal/prison system by choosing complicit prisoner. She has grown one I actually do know despite the fully planned evening. Sometimes I boundaries for them. Most guys, not to choose." She doesn't realize all too accustomed to the shackles blasphemous mention of his name. feel like I'm doing espionage work can get away with flowers and their that she has already made a choice by and yet continues to blame her par- Salma's boyfriend is Catholic, for Uic Lying to Parents Intelligence charm to impress a girl's parents. staying with them because she loves ents and religion. Choice entails the which means he'll never be able to Agency. Nevertheless, everything Salma's boyfriend, on the other them or for her own material benefits. burden of responsibility and walking poke his crucifix-wearing neck any- usually goes well; I've even picked hand, would have to say goodbye to It's extremely difficult to tell peo- out to be free is so powerful precisely where near her Muslim household. up a few words in Arabic to distract Jesus and ask for her hand in mar- ple to leave something they've been because the responsibility is so great. a part of their entire lives. It's heart- fordhamobserver.com February 15,2007 I OPINIONS 09 Protest for Peace byDANIELAVLACIH STAFF WRITER immediate impact on the war, but it etrate Iranian borders. This action, if ment's decision in invading other na- out of Iraq now, it is neces- could create greater awareness and in- carried out, will only further entangle tions such as Iran. At this point, we are sary to keep in mind the overall goal fluence future decisions. Peace activ- our precarious situation in the Middle more so interfering in the Middle East of peace advocates. Thomas Callahan, On Jan. 27,1 joined approximately, ists have continuously protested wars East, creating an even greater need than anything else. The U.S. cannot adjunct professor of communications half a million people at the nation's while striving to promote non-violent for troops. Our initial involvement undertake the responsibility of instill- at Fordbam College of Liberal Studies capital for a rally and march in protest strategies as a form of resolutioa Es- in Afghanistan, the search for Osama ing 'democratic' principles and west- believes that "by learning about peace, <5f the war in Iraq. The rally was or- sentially, the nation's course of action Bin Laden, the toppling of Saddam em policies in the non-westem world. we can hopefully educate people to ganized by a group called United for is in the hands of government officials, Hussein's dictatorship and search for However, it is now necessary to over- stop future wars before all of mankind Peace and Justice. UFPJ is an alliance and yet rallies and demonstrations like weapons of mass destruction seemed come this obstacle in Iraq because the is destroyed in the ultimate war- a nu- of organizations protesting any action these are necessary. For instance, this somewhat justified to many; flie course U.S. has largelyjcontributed to the pre- clearwar. The peace movement shows they claim has to do with "our govern- rally may galvanize the existing oppo- has been elongated, and our nation's existing chaos. And, although this war that there is still hope for America and ment's policy of permanent warfare sition and possibly influence the U.S. 's current route is now a derivative of began as a "war against terrorism," the world It is all about, as the old and empire-building." They are usual- next steps in the Middle East Activists the original. This particular peace rally at the same time, it could very well song said, "giving peace a chance.'" ly involved in the organization of large are forever making efforts to initiate a exposed the vision of those who wish stimulate terrorist action Still, many From the explosion of peace rallies scale rallies, which was the outcome of peace movement, and the rallies of the to pull out of the war. People yelled do side with the president's actions, but in the 60's, these advocates continue this rally in Washington, D.C. Among '60s may have been the beginning of a to "bring the troops home now" and I think that, for now, this country has to put great effort into demonstrating those in attendance were politicians long road towards this goal. That goal cut off funding for the war in Iraq. It done enough playing in this political their principles. Callahan also stated such as Rep. Jerrold Nadler of NY, is the ultimate motivation which keeps may be too late to terminate our Iraqi game field we call the world. that "if America is going to remain a celebrity figures including Sean Penn mem protesting. involvement, but the unity of so many Hhoughnoteveryonemay agree with democracy, the people have to have and Susan Sarandon as well as citizens There has recently been chatter re- protesters may prove to hold some the views presented at this rally, such some say in what is being done in from around the globe. Families with garding the United States' plan to pen- power if it could sway the govern- as bringing the troops home or getting their name. Resistance has always ul- children, groups of students and veter- ans joined together in efforts to make a statement on behalf of all those op- posed to the continuation of the war in Iraq. Though I am no political activist, I felt the need to experience this dem- onstration and perhaps understand the views of nearly half the nation who now oppose the war in Iraq. A friend of mine from London, an aspiring journalist and photographer, was glad to join me for a weekend trip to D.C, to get lost amidst a couple of thousand peace activists and some politics. Walking around the Capitol, sur- rounded on all sides by activists, I questioned whether all die protesting would have any impact on this war, I wondered what the outcome of this rally would be, if any. It didn't take long for me to answer my own ques- tioa I gazed at the crowd, and as far as the eye could see were bodies, for such a long distance, so far that they appeared just as colorful specks. I then came to the startling realization that these hundreds of thousands of people all protesting for the same cause would probably have no impact on this war atalL I am aware that activists regularly hold peace rallies throughout the world, but if a resolution in their favor is usually unlikely, then why do they continue to protest? As I scanned the crowd, flooded with signs, banners and posters, one of them in particular stood out This sign read "Stop the war in Iraq" but the 'q' in Iraq was crossed out and replaced with the let- ter 'n,' changing the word to Iran. I then realized that the ongoing wave Daniela Watch /The Observer of peace rallies may not have an Protestors march against the War in Iraq-but what keeps them marching? Decades: Notes on a Quarter-Life Crisis During very much, but the teacher only I worry that I might be falling ward me down the pipe—big deci- ing us to abandon certain areas my 'first replied confidently, "You'll go to behind, that I've done too little sions, not just what colleges to ap- of interest in favor of a single class at the law school." with my 20 years to ever catch ply to or what classes to take—and pursuit—a pursuit that very often beginning I had a birthday recently. I am up. When I hear people talk about I feel massively unprepared. I'm determines how we spend the de- of the se- now 20 years old. Every birthday books I haven't read or countries not sure if I have the knowledge cades ahead of us. For many of us, mester, the comes with a new feeling, one I've never traveled to, I can't help or the perspective yet to commit this may feel frustrating, as we are professor that takes some getting used to, wondering if I should have started myself to anything, and in this, I only now truly starting to figure asked me like those first few weeks after the certain things earlier. In the end, don't think I'm alone. out how the world works and what what my New Year of learning to write '07 though, it really isn't important to The question really is: how our place in it might be. In the end, major was. instead of'06. It's not always that compare myself to other people, much should we, as college stu- however, this fork in the road is "Political easy to swallow, knowing that the but I still find it hard to escape this dents, expect of ourselves, given probably a good thing. Maybe I'm Science, clock has ticked on your life, and "if I knew then" mentality. I catch the time we've been alive? I may better off making these choices I think," I when the clock turns to a year that myself feeling slightly frustrated be 'decades' old, but at least half now, so that when I have my mid- answered, ends in a zero, the hands seem to at my "pre-decades" mentality. of that time can be written off as life crisis I won't look back and hesitantly. tick a little louder. It is a strange Who knows what you might now childhood and growing up—a time wonder why I dawdled my twen- ANDREW I hadn't yet thought, this idea of suddenly be- be able to accomplish, I think bit- before I was especially cognizant, ties away in indecision. declared. ing decades old, where before I terly at my past, if only you had of how I spend my days. Still, a Last week I went and turned HUDSON "Oh, so was only one decade, plus some. had the motivation to study more lot can be accomplished in a few in my declaration of major form. you are go- It's a thought that leaves me, or socialize more or devote your- years. Should we expect ourselves Waiting on line at the Enrollment ing to law at best, reflective and, at worst, self to {earning a particular skill? to know everything, to have an ac- Office window, I had a brief flash school then?" my professor con- slightly nervous. I'm trying not I want to sign up for every class, curate and comprehensive world of manic ambition. For a second, tinued. I was surprised. I quickly to think about it as a 'quarter-life go to every concert, book tickets view or to truly understand what I could see myself going to law ran through my mind all the vari- crisis,' but I can't help but feel to Europe and China and South makes our civilization tick? school, just like my professor had ous options I'd been considering the clunky heft of my age and the America, replace sleep for espres- In college, perhaps more so than said. Not that I've decided yet, of for after college—engineering steadily increasing pressure of my so and forgo moderation entirely. any other period of our lives, we course, but for some reason the de- school, journalism, fiction writ- onrushing future in a different way So maybe this is a 'quarter-life are forced to come to terms with cision seems a bit less scary. One ing—and law school wasn't one than 1 have in the past. crisis' or something. The truth is, the idea that we can't do every- way or another, I'II find a good way of them. I mumbled something There is a complexity to feeling I see decisions about what to do thing. We are expected to choose to spend the decades ahead. • about not having thought about it decades old that I didn't expect. with my life coming quickly to- a path of study, often times forc- 1Q| February 15,2007 ARTS & CULTURE THE OBSERVER Mainstage preview: "Man Equals Man"

By ANDREW GNERRE The play, translated by Gerhard stage of the character's development about the matters being presented. McKenna, who is now teaching STAFF WRITER Nellhaus, tells the story of Galy Gay, a Brecht is perhaps most famous not In Fordham's presentation of "Man theater here at Fordham, is the first citizen of India during British occupa- for his plays themselves, but' rather Equals Man," the company fully in- Fordham graduate to return to direct Beginning Thu., Feb. 22, the tion. The plot follows Gay, played by his theories pertaining to theater in tends to uphold this vision of theater. a Mainstage performance. "When I Fordham Theater Program will pres- Amir Wachterman, as he gets caught general. His most prominent idea in According to McKenna, the produc- went here, I didn't know I had found ent seven performances of "Man up with the British army and their ter- this realm is the German "Verfrem- tion will include techniques such as a place who [would] employ me," Equals Man," a play written by the riryingly effective training techniques. dungseffekt," or the distancing ef- the announcement of scenes, unnatu- McKenna said. The director also said extraordinarily influential German The character's transformation offers fect This technique involvesxonstant ral lighting, and having the actors re- that it has been great being back in playwright Bertolt Brecht These per- ideas regarding military power and reminders to the audience that they main on the stage. The intention is to such a friendly atmosphere ripe with formances, directed by guest director forceful indoctrination as well as the are watching a play. The intention is have some fun with the production. talent "I have been wildly impressed and Fordham alum Colin McKenna, malleable nature of the human spirit to prevent viewers from becoming As lighting director Chad McArver by the students," the director says, will be the first Mainstage shows of McKenna says that he trusts in Wa- absorbed in the narrative and in turn put it, "It is a playful presentation of "This is the best undergraduate [act- the new year. chterman to effectively portray each lose the ability to think rationally a tragic idea." ing] program in New York City." • Sundance Film Festival wrap-up New NVC arts budget in the current war in Iraq by simply pro- plastic surgeon who repairs the ears of By JESSICA GUERR A dispute STAFF WRITER viding the facts without any political kidnapping victims who were mutilat- agenda, and includes interviews with ed. The equal prize winner in the dra- The first influential film festival of Bush officials whose consult was ig- matic category was 'Tadre Nuestro" the year, known as the Sundance Film nored. by Christopher Zalla, which is about Festival, debuted a large crop of films Some films were already getting an illegal immigrant from Mexico which hope to make an impact on the attention before their first screen- who goes to New York to find his rich world of cinema The annual film fes- ing. "Waitress" was the last film cre- father, whom he has never met tival took place between Jaa 18 and ated by actress and director Adrienne The Directing Award Dramatic Jaa 28 in Park City, Utah, and fea- Shelly before she was murdered in her was given to Jeffrey Blitz for his film tured over 125 films. The wide variety New York City apartment in Novem- "Rocket Science." It is a high-school of films included mostly independent ber. The film is a comedy starring Ken comedy about a stuttering student, features, which are films without any Russell as a pregnant waitress who played by Reese Daniel Thompson major studio support, and foreign wants out of her relationship with her whose performance was earning buzz films. The Sundance Film Festival is a horrible husband, played by Jeremy of its own, who learns about love showcase for small films that seldom Sisto, and who has an aflair with her while on the debate team. The Jury for have big ndme celebrities or large bud- obstetrician. The film received praise the Independent Film Dramatic Com- getstoget tiie attention they deserve. It for Shelly's direction and Russell's petition presented a Special Jury Prize has also become a place where major performance. for Acting to Jess Weixler, for her bidding wars occur between the stu- Despite all the talk surrounding the ' work as a high-school virgin with the dios, so they can add more risky and controversial film ''Hounddog," be- unique condition of'Vagina dentata" original works to their line-up. At least cause of its depiction of star Dakota in the thriller'Teeth."- 18 films have been bought for a total Fanningycharacter being raped, the Professor Miller said she was most of $50 million. .film still has not been purchased by impressed with the way the short For Professor Melissa Miller, a a 'studio for distributioa Professor films are featured at Sundance. She longtime foltowerof the Sundance Miller s^w the film "Hounddog," and said that often in other film festivals Film Festival, who has attended the thought that the film was "ambitious they would place short films before festival several times and was there and moving, but wasn't executed feature films, but at Sundance they briefly this year, said it was good to well. The rape scene was not an issue, would set aside blocks consisting of hear about independent films be- and it was done as tastefully as a rape approximately five films to be shown Photographer's Name/Die Observer ing picked by distributors, especially scene could be handled." She contin- dining their own screenings. 'It gives ' Venues like Carnegie Hall will be effected by the changes to New York City's art budget when films are bought at a price sig- ued, "I give the writerpoints fortrying short films more notoriety," she says, ByLUKETEEGARDEN nificantly higher than die film's bud- to tell a different coming of age story. and it takes away the perception that ASSISTANT ARTS EDITOR cultural progression, or does it reward get The great thing about Sundance, It seemed genuine and sincere." short films are "indulgent, bad student its revenue draw? One skeptical NYC Professor Miller claimed, is that "peo- Mixed reviews have also been films," because one could never know The rules of the money-grabbing theater blog, The Playgoer, expressed ple make movies on their own terms, received for "Black Snake Moan," if the next big thing in filmmaking is game played by arts and cultural deep concern and skepticism in regard so it is nice to hear about these films Justin Tirnberlake's next major acting among that crowd of short films. In a groups in NYC are about to change. to the so-called solution: "Bloomberg being sold to be distributed." gig which made its debut at Sundance. way to embrace new technology, for New York City's broad contingency may sell himself as the 'nice Repub- This year's slogan for the Sundance Craig Brewer, the director of "Hustle the first time ever, Sundance is put- of arts/culture institutions are facing lican.' But here we see the ruthless Film Festival was 'Tbcus on Film," and Flow," directed the film which ting almost all of the short film entries a new system by which municipal and insulting logic of "No Child Left in order to bring the festival back to has studio support from Paramount as streaming video on their Web site, funding may be had. Mayor Bloom- Behind" applied to the arts. Meet your its roots, and have all the attention Vantage and a release date of Feb. 23. http://festival.sundance.org/2007/, berg and City Council Speaker Chris- target numbers (whether your test back on the films, and less on parties, The film stars Samuel L. Jackson as or they could be downloaded off of tine C. Quinn recently approved a scores or your ticket sales) or lose your celebrities and swag, which wasn't a blues musician who uses unconven- iTunes. proposal for the overhaul of a long- funding. Social Darwinism enshrined what actor Robert Redford, founder tional methods to reform a nympho- According to Professor Miller, the standing and cumbersome grant sys- as social policy." The claim is that a of the Sundance Film Festival, had in maniac he finds on the side of the road, film industry has changed consider- tem, which will come into effect this panel of overseers is prone to act on mind when the festival first started 23 played by Christina Ricci, and Tim- ably in the past few years in regards July. Groups seeking money will be biases and priorities that don't reflect years ago. If you are unfamiliar with berlake plays her soldier boyfriend to independents films, "indepen- evaluated by CultureStat, a perfor- a holistic view of the arts. If lobbying Sundance, you may be more familiar Another high-profile film, "Chapter dent films' parameters changed fi- mance assessment system based on was a time-consuming problem for with some of the films which have 27," starring Jared Leto and Lindsay nancially and are being made with a similar program used to monitor small groups before, the pressures of been featured in the festival such as: Lohan, didn't get great reviews either. $5 million budgets and stars." She police and crime. The question is, will a rating system with subjective crite- "Reservoir Dogs," "Clerks," "The However Leto's much publicized 65 claimed that it is now a totally differ- this new system prove more effec- ria doesn't seem to be a great remedy. Blair Witch Project," "Napoleon Dy- pound weight gain didn't seem to be ent world than the time when "Sex, tive than the old or will it simply re- Ideally, CultureStat is intended to namite," and 2007 Academy Award in vain. His portrayal of Mark David Lies, and Videotape," the film that place old roadblocks with new ones? eliminate the political money-grab- nominee "Little Miss Sunshine." Chapman during the days before he made a breakthrough in director Ste- Well over^OO organizations in New bing via connections and favorites Many of this year's stand-out films murdered singer John Lennon has re- ven Soderbergh's career and debuted York have for years vied for a piece that has occurred for years between have a political theme to them. The ceived some praise. at Sundance in 1989, came out in the of the money pie carved annually by competing groups, as reported by the Audience Award winner in the dra- "Son of Rambow" was this year's beginning of the heyday of indepen- City Council, according to a figure Times. But it seems inevitable that matic category was "Grace Is Gone." financial earnings winner. It was the dent films. In today's climate, a cheap from The Sun. The current system in- with an ambiguous City Council-run It is a drama written and directed by film which earned the highest bid at film, such as "Videotape," with a very volves heavy lobbying for arts groups, rating system, the city's "smaller fish" James C. Strouse, who also won the just under $8 million. It is receiving small budget and no stars, may not be creating a bottleneck of potential fund will be going from one frying pan to Waldo Salt Screenwriting Award at similar buzz as last year's biggest earn- picked up by a distributor because they recipients. The priorities of smaller the other. A high-caliber event such the festival, starring John Cusack as a ings winner "Little Miss Sunshine." would be afraid that the film wouldn't organizations, particularly indepen- as the Armory Show: International patriotic American father who cannot The movie is a British comedy about make any money, Studios pick up dent theater companies, arc often lost Fair of New Art (which Bloomberg bring himself to tell his two daughters two boys who are obsessed with the films hoping to make money, but it in the shuffle. Bloomberg and Quinn happened to list as a priority in his that their mother, Grace, died while Sylvester Stallone flick, "First Blood," is not as easy today for a truly small promote the new plan as a remedy for State of the City address in Janu- serving in Iraq. "Chicago 10" opened and arc trying to make a home-made independent film to be picked up as it the chaotic shuffle that has become ary) will draw tens of thousands. Sundance and it is a documentary version of it. Garth Jennings wrote and was before, because the film industry a dysfunctional system for money Many say that it's this kind of high- •which compares the protestors of to- directed the film, and it was bought by is mostly run by major studios and allotment. "It was a way to create volume appeal that will receive the day willi a group of protestors from Paramount Vantage. there arc less smaller distributors. a more level playing field," Quinn stamp of approval from City Council the 1968 Democratic National Con- The Grand Jury Prize for a docu- However, Professor Miller said, "Sun- said to the New York Times. Peer-re- - leaving less publicized or main- ventioa The director of "Chicago 10," mentary film went to Jason Kohn's dance is still going along in dying to view panels will be implemented to stream fixtures in a competitive jam. -Brett Morgan, used a unique filming "Manda Bala (Send A Bullet)." The get films noticed, and though it is not eliminate lobbying, using CultureS- The second half or 2007 will technique combining archive foot- film is set in Brazil and follows sev- as significant today, it is still helpful tat as a rubric for funding candidates. test CulturcStat's effectiveness • and age and animation. The documentary eral individuals, including a politician in getting films out there mid promot- But opposing voices question the groups seeking funds will either prove "No End in Sight" won a Special Jury who uses a frog farm to steal billions ing them to be seen. The public is still effectiveness of CultureStat in evalu- their worth or fold under the pressure. Prize from the Documentary Jury and of dollars, a wealthy businessman very interested in Sundance, so it is ating an institution's so-called "merit," It remains to be seen whether or not was directed by Charles Ferguson. who spends a large sum of his money still important because it keeps lesser The question is, docs a group's Cultur- the future of New York as an art city This film depicts the problems with making his cars bulletproof, and a known films in the public eye." • eStat rating reflect its artistic value and is in Mayor Bloomberg's agenda. • THE OBSERVER February 15,2007 I 11 Bes._ How tto win a Actress Oscar Dames, divas andDench demol- ish Oscar's golden rules—and not a prosthetic nose in sight

Chariize Theron Reese Witherspoon

All Caricatures Courtesy «f Chris Ware/ KRT Helen Mirren Julia Roberts Hilary Swank

ByRAYDADEMO OPINIONS EDITOR Younger beats older. A hooker always trumps a queen. r Queens, suburban spitfires, acid-tongued diarists and Before 61 year-old Mirren became poised to take home fashion plates—and not a prosthetic nose among them. this year's award, it seemed that the Best Actress race If there's one thing that makes Academy voters buckle This year's race for Best Performance by an Actress in a fancied spring chickens more than silver foxes. Looking at at the knees, it's a downtrodden widow/prostitute/maid at Leading Role boasts an unusually strong collection of per- a 10-year period, from 1997 to the present, the average age the very end of her rope. The past 10 years have taught us formers defying the tried and true formula for Academy of winning actresses hovers somewhere around 30. None that, while Oscar loves his women on the soft side of 40, Awards victory. None wore prosthesis or gained a drastic of this decade's winners has been older than 35 years old he likes them even more when they're on the breadline. amount of weight, all played assertive, strong-willed char- Nicole Kidman, who beat out four other actresses (all under As far as Oscar-winning roles go, we've rewarded single acters, and, in perhaps the biggest show of disregard for 40) to win for 2002's "The Hours." (It's interesting to note mothers (Julia Roberts in "Erin Brockovich"), single for Oscar .convention, three of them are over 50. that her costar, the always-deserving Meryl Streep, was 53 mothers who work for tips in coffee shops (Helen Hunt Thanks to Helen Mirren ("The Queen"), Judi Dench on the morning she found out she wasn't nominated.) in "As Good As It Gets") and black single mothers who ("Notes on a Scandal"), Meryl Streep ("The Devil Wears This phenomenon is, of course, not limited to the last work for tips in the racist South (Halle Berry in "Mon- Prada"), Kate Winslet ("Little Children") and Penelope decade. In the 79 years of award history, 75 percent of all ster's Ball"). Couple this with Oscar's unending love affair Cruz ("Volver")—the strongest set of five nominees in a Best Actress winners were under 40 at the time of their win, with prostitutes (six nominees since 1990, three wins) and decade—we're on the brink of crowning a new kind of making age a major stumbling block on the road to Oscar. we arrive at yet another golden rule: straddling the poverty Best Actress: one who will finally squelch all those com- Just ask Diane Keaton ("Something's Gotta Give"), Judi line wins Oscars. monly held "rules" for pleasing the Academy. Dench ("Mrs. Henderson Presents") and Annette Bening Characters in positions of great political power—like ("Being Julia"), all of whom portrayed older women in the Cate Blanchett in "Elizabeth" and Joan Allen in "The prime of life—and were overlooked, in favor of younger, perkier actresses. see ACTRESS pg. 12

OSCAR is RACE THEMED STILL AN MENU ISSUE? - Oscars, page 13 OSCARS, page 14

SPECIAL PULL-OUT SECTION!!! HANG IT UP ON YOUR WALL, USE IT DURING THE OSCAR TELECAST, BURN IT FOR HEAT; WHATEVER! fordhamobserver.com THE OBSERVER I February 15,2007 I OSCARS 12 An open letter to every actress getting ready for the Oscars

By CHADNER NAVARRO ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR

DearActress, a lemon chiffon vintage Jean Desses column gown. Since then, Zellweger has been among the world's best- Year after year we've seen an increase in the popularity dressed actresses and the muse of designer Carolina Herre- of the red carpet at awards ceremonies. For an especially ra. Amidst a sea of blacks and neutrals, Zellweger stunned buzz-worthy event like the Oscars, numerous television Hollywood with her stunning use of a risky color in a vin- networks devote several hours counting down to the main tage desiga event to feature whatever action is happening on mat car- Sharon Stone is a beautiful woman who demands at- pet It's not uncommon to see red carpet coverage match- tention wherever she goes, for her behavior, her films and ing, if not exceeding, the broadcast length of the award her attire. At the 1996 Academy Awards, Stone was once show itself. Tabloid magazines have also paid significantly again the center of attention when she announced the tur- more attention to the glamour of the carpet than to whoever tleneck she had paired with her black Valentino skirt was wins the awards, with usually just a few paragraphs report- from lowbrow couturier the Gap. This is a fashion faux-pas ing on the night's festivities and big winners. Red carpet when you consider all the Versaces, Armanis and Guccis coverage, however, spans pages. When that's the case and that Gap sweater was chosen over, but on Stone, it looked the attention paid to the red carpet is gargantuan, the impor- fantastic; you couldn't even tell it was from the Gap. I'm tance of what you, a high profile actress, really the carpet's not suggesting you go to Forever 21 and pick out a party most sought-after, are wearing grows exponentially. dress. I'm merely hinting at the possibility of looking past With mat type of pressure, an actress attending the Oscars the names and really looking at the clothes. should dress flawlessly, with the knowledge mat before you Women who attend the Oscars run the gamut when it even get to the venue, you would already have been pho- comes to age. Tweener Abigail Breslin will be in atten- tographed to death, every angle scrutinized. It's a test very dance and so will practically ancient Judi Dench, who's few of your brethren pass; most languish in the middle; and 72. Dressing your age is very important, but not to be mis- several baffle with monstrous red carpet fashion atrocities. taken for dressing like an idiot Over-the-hill actress, Diane Cher's Bob Mackies? Spellbinding attention-getters and Lane works very hard for her perfectly sculpted body. And permanent members of worst dressed lists the world over. at the 2004 Oscars, we all caught a glimpse of it in the most But for all you actresses out there prepping to attend the perfect way imaginable. The ''Unfaithful" actress wowed Oscars in a couple of weeks, Cher is not the only point of everyone with a white Louis Azzaro gown with bejeweled reference available. When you go through your lists of de- keyhole detailing exposing part of Lane's torso. She was signers, all of whom are begging you to choose their wares sexy, not sleazy, and still looked every bit like a lady. for the show, think long and hard of how you want to Be When all else fails, it never hurts to dress in a classic. remembered before you make mat choice. Aren't we still It might not have been a sensation, but Audrey Hepburn's talking about Bjork's swan gown? white Givenchy gown at the 1954 Oscars, when she won Cher and Bjork are both fashion risk-takers, just the the best actress trophy for her work in "Roman Holiday," wrong kind. When they take risks, you wonder if their is a gorgeous reminder of how something simple can go a marbles are all intact But if you just can't keep yourself longway. from a surge of adrenaline, look to a Renee Zellweger.or a And that's it Remember the name of the person who Sharon Stone for red carpet inspiration. Renee Zellweger made everything you're wearing, to walk straight - head for the 2001 OscarS'had a difficult time deciding on her high, chest out - and your panties. award show attire. And why not? Going into that year's show, Zellweger had been harshly criticized for her poor Love, fashion choices. All that was about to change when she walked down the red carpet in Chadner

Photos (from left to right): Renee Zellweger, Bette Davis, Grace Kelly, Audrey Hepburn, Diane Lane

All photos courtesy of KRT

Best Actress Oscar Fordham students weigh in If a perennial nominee, like Judi CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11 Oscar hates Dench (nominated six times in on the nominees Contender"—are especially nine years) or Renee Zellweger defenseless against this rule, losing a wrinkly old (nominated three times in three By IRENE MOLDAVER out to handmaidens and waitresses years) has been snubbed too STAFF WRITER" when they're nominated at all. bridesmaid. many times, they will try their best to throw her a Best Sup- If, let's say, these last three rules porting Actress Oscar. Keep in "Ugly it up, have only brought you to the mind, though, that this happens Best Film BestActressina precipice of Oscar glory, to the rarely. (Best Supporting Actress 46% "Little Miss Sunshine" Lead Role gals.'! starting post but never the win- is a lesser honor, usually re- 20% "Ihe Departed" 66% Meryl Streep ner's circle... then you're probably served for craggly-faced char- 14% "The Queen" 20% Helen Mirren When in doubt over which doomed. Six of the past nine Best acter actresses and whoever 14% "Babel" 8% Kate Winslet actress did the best jobs, remem- Actress winners were first-time sings loudest in a musical.) 6% "Letters fiomlwoJima" 6% Judi Dench ber that Academy voters tend to nominees—with the exception This year's crop of nominees 0% Penelope Cruz confuse acting with dressing up. of Kidman, Roberts and Swank. (first-timer Penelope Cruz, Best Director Most recent Best Actresses—an (They don't do much to disprove notwithstanding) stands out as 54% Martin Scorcese Best Actor in a attractive bunch, to be sure—gar- my theory. Kidman won for her truly notable: they've racked 20% Stephen Rears Supporting Role nered awards for covering up second nomination; Roberts up an impressive 28 nomina- 14% Alejandro Gonzalez 46% Eddie Murphy their glamorous real-life personas,. for her third; Swank ruins the tions between them. If Mirren, Inarritu 20% Marie Wahlberg Nicole Kidman squashed some statistic by winning both her first Dench, Winslet or Streep walk 12% Clint Eastwood 20% AlanArian putty on her nose to play 'The and second.) Because newcom- away with Oscar, we may be 0% PaulGreengrass 14% DjimonHounsou Hours'" Virginia Woolf, Charlize ers take precedence, it seems like witnessing a paradigm shift; 0% Jackie Earl Haley Theron gained 30 pounds to play there are no happy endings for a blow for veteran nominees Best Actor in a Ailecn Wuornos in "Monster^1 the Susan Luccis of Oscar, As everywhere. Lead Role BestActressina and Hilary Swank went tranny for the same names (Dench, Winslct, Otherwise, Laura Linney, Joan 60% Leonardo Dicoprio Supporting Role Brandon Teena in "Boys Don't Moore) pop up year after year Allen, Julianne Moore, Emily 20% Will Smith 54% Jennifer Hudson Cry." Did Julianne Moore, looking (and the over-40 rule inescapably Watson, Samantha Morton and 14% Forest Whitaker 26% Abigail Breslin so resplendent as the Jane Wyman takes effect) it becomes less and Annette Bening will probably 6% Ryan Gosling 20% CateBlaochett stand-in in 2002's "Far From less likely that they will ever be never, ever win the damn thing. 0% PeterOToole 0% AdrianaBarraza Heaven," really think she stood a called on Oscar night. Unless one of them plays a home- 0% RinkoKikuchi chance? She didn't have a hunch- Academy voters do, however, less-steel-mill-worker-with-no back or anything. have a strange sense of justice. teeth..,whileshc'sstillundcr40, • 13 OSCARS February 15,2007 I THE OBSERVER fordhamobserver.com $10 STUDENT RUSH TICKETS AT LINCOLN CENTER!

OSCAR PARTY MENU v ) i. , I. K0 > Planning an Oscar party on the fly? Well, have you considered any of these options? ipti In keeping with this year's list of nominated films and actors, the follow- •w ing is an assortment of movie-oriented treats guaranteed to tantalize the taste buds of even your most disdrninating critic CMS pres||| (Root Beer) Floats on a Scandal Black Forest Whitaker Cake y Finger Sandwiches on Pita OToole composersjir|l|||r)|« Little Miss Sim Chips and Dip /;f The Devil's Food Cupcakes Wear Piada Va ug ha n||j.l||im|5 ••' ;| Babel-ganoush Walton, Wpfpep:,' Brad Fitted Olives Delius, and Bridge. Pig^in a Blanches Pineapple (Cruz) Mimosas Sun, Feb 11 at 5 PM The Chamber Music Society of And something no one win eat Tue, Feb 13 at 7:30 PM Lincoln Center offers a great New York Effie1 Fri, Feb 23 at 8 PM experience at a great price. Sun, Feb 25 at 5 PM $10 student rush tickets are available one hour prior to conceits AUCE TULLY HALL at the box office. Two tickets for $10 to tooted at Broadmqr at 65th Start. Cwapkte program details Md dkecttoM each per valid student ID.

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ODS (©nrO^S) For Listing of Attendees, Visit www.fordham.edu/career Professional Attire Required! Bring Copies of Your Resume! Deloitte Sign up at Career Services and Receive Ram Van passes Your Future Career Is In Your Hands! fordhamobserver.com THE OBSERVER I February 15.2007 OSCARS 14 Are the Oscars out Race and the Oscars ByMICHALNERlA STAFF WRITER cans were nominated, with just one top and "Beveriy Hills Cop," decisions of touch? acting winner—Poitiet that cast a critical eye on the Academy PoMer was the firstAfrica n American Awards. ByJACKYIEVOLI The days when African Americans to win the Best Actor Award for his role For most of the Oscar's first 73 years, CONTRIBUTING WRITER to be shown. Instead they lease the felt underrepresented in the Oscars in "Lilies of the Field." It would take audiences watched African American movies that become the box office seem to have come to an end. another 38 years before Denzel Wash- actors and actresses perform the roles "Venus," "Half Nelson," 'Tan's hits of the year. Hence, the films that This year, a significant group of ington would become the next African that had to be played by people of color, Labyrinth,'.' "Little Children," "Notes get nominated for Academy Awards talented African American actors and American to win Best Actor for his having no other options. For example, on a Scandal." These titles may cause and the films counted among the top actresses are nominated for Oscar performance in 'Training Day." McDaniel in the role of "Mammy," and some readers to scratch their heads grossing are not usually in sync. Will Smith, Forest Whitaker, Djimon The first female African American Poitier in the roles of strong-willed in puzzlement For the unfamiliar, Back in 1972, however, the box Hounsou, Eddie Murphy, and Jen- winner was Hattie McDanieL who African American men who fight these are movies that have been nomi- office hits and the Academy Award nifer' Hudson. Together, this group took home the Best Supporting Actress against racism and injustice. Today, nated for quite a few 2006 Academy nominated films were in perfect align- of five accounts for one-fourth of this Award for her role in "Gone With the African Americans have a wider Awards. It is interesting to note, how- ment, with the biggest moneymakers year's acting nominees—setting a new Wind" in 1939. She was criticized for range of acting roles to choose from. ever, that many people have not even sweeping the Oscars. For this align- record. Over the decades, the place of her role as "Mammy" the maid, a char- Some examples of African Ameri- heard of these movies, let alone gone ment to occur buyers had to choose African Americans in the Academy acter stereotypical of the time's racist cans taking on white roles are Jamie to see them to lease such adult-oriented films as Award Ceremony has gone through notions held against African Ameri- Foxx's performance in "Collateral," 'Tetters From Iwo Jima," a movie "The Godfather," "Cabaret," and some drastic changes, and with the in- cans, hi response to the criticism, Mc- originally thought for Adam Sandier, nominated for four awards including "Deliverance," and the public had to creasing number of African American Daniel made her famous remark, 'I'd and Queen Latifah's role in "Chi- Best Picture, was shown almost no- choose to go see the films. The buyers nominees, it finally seems that color is rather play a maid than be one." cago," originally meant for Kathy where. The film's opening weekend and the public did, so the figures at the no longer a deciding factor in who will Eddie Murphy, who is nominated Bates. The best example is Denzel found it in limited release, playing at box office aligned with the Academy take the statuette home. for Best Supporting Actor Award for Washington's winning performance only five theaters. Its so-called wide Award nominations. In recent years, more and more Afri- his role in "Dreamgirls," has been an in 'Training Day," which was first release, however, brought the film to The same cannot be said for 2006, canAmerican s are being nominated for outspoken advocate for African Amer- offered to Gary Sinise and Bruce only seven hundred and twenty the- but it is not the Academy Awards' be- Oscars and recognized for their talents. icans in Hollywood for decades. Mur- Willis. These are all results of color- aters. This number pales in compari- ing out ofsync that causes this discrep- This shift reached a climax during the phy knew he would get the last word blind casting. son to movies like "Saw 3,"playing at ancy. Great films are still being made, 74th Academy Awards in 2002, when when he bestowed the Best Picture On the issue, Denzel Washington 3,167 theaters, and "Scary Movie 4," but the audience for them has disap- Halle Berry received the first Best Award in 1988, adding a battle cry for said, "It's really about getting roles. playing at 3,602. It's no wonder that peared. Where has this audience gone? Actress Award for African American black power. "I just want you to know I don't think there is anything the much of the country is unfamiliar with After looking at the top 25 films of the women, and Denzel Washington the that I'm gonna give this award," he Academy can do and, as I said ear- the nominees. People in Arapaho, year, I'm tempted to note that thirteen second African American to win Best said, "but black people will not ride the lier, I think it would be dangerous Oklahoma simply do not have access are family-friendly flicks ("Happy Actor since Sidney PoMer in 1963. caboose of society!" for them to say, 'We'll start pick- to these movies. This has led many to Feet," "Over the Hedge")—a far cry The Academy Awards carries a long Ironically, in "Dreamgirls" Mur- ing people because they're African accuse the Academy Awards of being from the. days of "A Clockwork Or- and dark history of discrimination phy plays James "Thunder" Early, an Americans or this and that I think it out of touch with the American people ange" and "One Flew Over the Cuck- against African Americans actors and African American singer who fails starts, you know, with the opportuni- and of blocking out the popular in fa- oo's Nest" It seems as though chil- actresses. According to an article by to capture the support of white audi- tiestoact'" vor of the obscure. dren have replaced adults as the major AldoreCollier for- Ebony Magazine, ences throiigtout the country, during the The movie industry is becoming So, are the Academy Awards out of movie-going demographic, turning for the Oscar's first 73jyears, 144 white 1960s. This is his first Oscar nomination, more inclusive, enabling African touch? "date night" into "family night" Dis- actors and actresses received top acting after being sriuboedfOT his unforgettable Americans to have an active part in I'll admit that after reading the listof tributors are not willing to risk losing awards, while only 13 African-Ameri- performances in "The Nutty Professor" the Academy Awards Cererribny. • nominees I was ready to join the mob money bringing "Half Nelson" to an of accusers, to lash out at the Oscar audience of empty chairs and sticky panel in this article. I began looking at theaterfloors. statistics of the highest grossing mov- Whatever the reason for our dimin- ies and comparing mat list with the list ishing interest in artsy, adult-fare, one of Oscar nominations. What I found thing is certain. On Friday night when changed my opinion substantially. we moan that there are no good mov- First, it is important to understand ies to see, we must remember that how movies are released The distri- there are good movies, but they aren't bution company shows the movie to being shown in theaters because we prospective buyers who represent the choose not to see them. We cannot theaters. The buyers then negotiate complain about the quality of films in with the distribution company which theaters if we are actively choosing to movies they would like to lease. The see "Saw 3" or "Scary Movie 4." films are then sent to the theater and After writing this article, I believe shown for the specified number of that the Academy Awards are not out weeks. Basically, if there is no de- of touch. The awards still have their mand for the filicn,the n the film will finger on the pulse of the highest qual- not be sent there. This is the reason for ity films of the year. Unfortunately, the more obscure films being shown the highest quality is no longer what is in NY and LA, where there is an ac- popular with the American public. tive interest in art films and the arts in The Academy Awards has the general. same standards for its nominations The buyers in Arapaho, OK, then, as it always has. It is America that opt for films like "Letters From Iwo has changed its standards when Ail Caricatures by Chrb Wan/KRT Jima" and "Notes on a Scandal" not choosing what movie to see. • Jennifer Hudson Jamie Foxx Halle Berry The Best Picture Race

By NICOLE BOURNAS-NEY ken independent film, and comedy, of Many biopics get the Academy's at- of how Oscar hands out its honors, ASSISTANT ARTS EDITOR tiie groilp. "The Departed" is a bloody tention because of the legendary "Dreamgirls" definitely deserved the popcorn thriller, which has never figures (for example, in "Ray" or nod. In 1996, it was "The English Pa- been Oscar's cup of tea. This leaves "Walk the Line") they illuminate. In But back to the eclectic group of tient" In 1997, it was'Titanic." In us with a race that has no front-runner "Dreamgirls," however, the Dreams pictures actually nominated for the 2004, it was "Return of the King." and five underdogs. are sort of like the Supremes...but trophy. If you were to read any guide And in 2007, it is ...nothing? That's And what about Deena, Lorrell and aren't As a result maybe the Acad- designed to help you handicap the Os- right, there's no clear-cut favorite for Effie, the "Dreamgirls" who found emy felt it only sort of deserved a car pool, you would be presented with this year's Best Picture Award. After their film caught in a very odd posi- nom. Oscar also has had a longstand- simple rules that will usually sound a truly maddening year of surprises, tion? It would have been the favor- ing relationship with gigantic movie like this: 1. Pick the film that got the snubs and sunshine (Little Miss), Os- ite...had it been nominated. Histori- musicals, but though the movie most nominations that year. Ok, but car fans are completely confused. cally, when a "big" film throws down very clearly is a musical, the ambi- what to do if that film ("Dreamgirls") This year's race includes five even- the gauntlet, Oscar responds. Five ance is Broadway masquerading was left out of the Best Picture race? ly matched and unlikely Best Pic- years ago, when Roxie and Velma as Motown, with "Dreams" perfor- 2. Pick the longest film. Wait, but ture nominees. "The Queen" is very slinked their way through the Cook mances replacing classic production what if that film ("Letters from Iwo British and somewhat stuffy; to put County jail, the Academy bowed to numbers. Finally, "Dreamgirls," Jima") has the unfortunate Oscar- it simply, it is just too BBC-esque to the power of spangles and production already on the radar when "Crash" killing quality of subtitles? 3. Pick take home Oscar. "Letters From Iwo numbers, handing their top prize over was recovering from the shock of the film about someone who accom- Jima," is filmed in Japanese so it joins to "Chicago." But when the Dreams its Best Picture victory, clearly went plishes his dreams, Hmm, how abut "II Posu'no" and a few others in the arrived shimmying through smoky beyond the "critical mass" for hype a film ("Little Miss Sunshine") about hopeless-nominecs-because-they're- visual effects and donning dozens of - it stood no chance of living up to not having to be successful? All this not-in-English club. "Babel" has been sequin-infused costumes, Oscar ap- all the buzz. The film's identity crisis brings us to one almost ridiculous out for longer than most of the nomi- plauded politely but moved on with- and overexposure seems to have hurt conclusion about this year's enigmnlic Creoono Blnuya/KRT nees, and its day seems to have come out so much as a nod. its Oscar chances, even though the Best Picture contenders: history tells Abigail Breslin Is nominated for best sup- and gone. Tie eccentrically charming Why no nomination for the mo- film seems to have been tailor-made us that none of them can actually win posting actress for her rolo in "Little Miss "Little Miss Sunshine" was originally mentum-driven "Drcamgirls," 2007's for everyone's favorite little golden the dam tiling, though the impending Sunshine," which is also nominated for picked up al Sundance and is the to- phantom sixth Best Picture nominee? man. For my money, in the tradition Oscarniglit will tell us otherwise. • Best Picture. 15 ARTS & CULTURE I February 15,2007 THE OBSERVER fordhamobserver.com STAGE REVIEW Tennessee Williams''"In the Bar of a Tokyo Hotel" ByKENLOMBARDI ed at a Tokyo lounge as a Japanese Toshiji Takeshima also deserves more than efficient in her skills of STAFF WRITER barman attempts to concentrate on recognition for his portrayal of bringing an overlooked but enter- his drink orders. It is clear that the Japanese bartender. As the taining production to the stage. What brazen efforts emerged this hotel employee has no inter- comedic straight man, Takeshima This play was written during the from Tennessee Williams during est in Miriam or her presumptuous remains amusing and sensible in late 1960s when Williams was in the final phase of his career. A sexual advances, yet he remains his role, as he unsuccessfully at- his late '50s. Undoubtedly, his de- Southern playwright who penned polite. Although he continually tempts to avoid Miriam's advanc- scent towards the final years of his such American classics as the fejects her, Miriam does not take es. As Miriam's artist husband life contributed to the overall mel- lyrical "A Streetcar Named De- notice or particularly care while Mark, actor Niall O'Hegarty ancholic mood found throughout sire" and "The Glass Menagerie," uttering flirtatious passes at him. persuasively illustrates the stages his later works. Williams' own Williams also wrote a number of Their conversation generates of mental illness in an eerily com- life most certainly contributed unorthodox stage plays which fea- laughter as they hopelessly talk pelling performance. O' Hegarty to the content of this play, as his tured minimalist dialogue. Such to one another; he speaks broken shakes uncontrollably while con- sister suffered from a mental dis- is the case with "In the Bar of a English while she delights in her veying a sense of paranoia and de- order much in the same manner Tokyo Hotel," featuring a script pretentious diction. "Rapacious, • mentia which has driven his wife, as Mark. And whereas his notable by Williams, which makes its way you know the word?" Miriam Miriam, away from him and into classics contained flowing and to the New York stage this Febru- asks. "I think you have taught me the arms of countless other men. dramatically poetic prose, "In the ary courtesy of The White Horse that word," the barman quips. Featured in the moderately sized Bar of A Tokyo Hotel" features Theater Company. A rarely seen As Miriam, actress Laura Siner Abingdon Theater Arts Complex, short, disconnected.and abrasive and oft neglected work, this play deserves praise for her perfor- the set actually benefits from its dialogue between its charac- is a rare gem which deserves a mance as a bored and garish low key scale, as performer and ters. This shift in speaking style viewing for its insights into the housewife. At first glance, she viewer are positioned in close marked a novel approach for Wil- psyche of one of America's most exudes the grace and sophistica- proximity to one another. As we liams, and he must be commend- prominent dramatists. tion of Katherine Hepburn, all are separated by only a few feet ed for his daringness to break As The New York Times sug- the while maintaining a level of from the actors in this black-box away from his previously cel- gests, "The play, set entirely in a elitist arrogance. Working with style theater, a sense of identifica- ebrated methods which brought bar, depicts the demise of a fic- dialogue that is often detached, tion with the characters is gener- him acclaim with such plays as tional American painter and his Siner captures the spirit of Mir- ated. The set, designed by Patrick "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof." wife." Yet "In the Bar of a Tokyo iam through her highbrow and Larseri, is superb in its minimal The White Horse Theater Com- Hotel" is clearly concerned with yet somehow constrained man- yet effectual use of props which pany also deserves praise for its so much more than its apparent nerisms. When Miriam literally very much produce the ambiance bravery in producing an aston- subject matter, as each central grabs the barman by his crouch in of a tourist styled bar. Costumes ishingly enlightening play which character suffers from an inability her last efforts of seduction, we designed by David B. Thompson so many have yet to see. "That's or unwillingness to comprehend can physically sense her despera- provide a sense of each character's my favorite play, and no one's one another. Williams is most tion. Other stage actors might identity, as Miriam is dressed in ever really understood it," Wil- deft in his illustrations of humani- carry this scene a bit too far over an elegant dress suit while Mark liams once said of this work. This ty and our difficulty in listening to the top, yet Siner is superb and illustrates his eccentricity through off-Broadway production should Photographer's Name/Hie Observer the thoughts and concerns of those convincing in the role of a pa- his splattered unkempt clothing finally draw some much deserved A photo from the Abingdon Arts Complex and paint stains. Successfully de- around us. Consider the opening thetic and materialistic American attention to this story of failure production of "In a Bar of Tokoyo Hotel" scene which reveals an American woman isolated within a foreign veloping all aspects of the produc- in connecting with others. • bourgeois wife, Miriam, idly seat- land. tion, director Cindy A. Marion is Poets Out Loud offers a taste think summer - think fordham of unconventional verse

By LUKE TEEGARDEN ASSISTANT ARTS EDITOR tion overheard in public, taken from her book, "Witness." She cited the thoughts and sentiments of a popula- Poetry season is back at FCLC. On tion in the wake of a national crisis Mon, Feb. 5th, the Fordham English as a focal point of her work in "Wit- Department kicked off its spring se- ness." Additionally, she presented her ries of readings with a book launch collaboration with painter Hermine for "Innovative Women Poets: An Ford, whose artwork appears on the Anthology of Contemporary Poetry cover of "Innovative Women Poets." and Interviews." Six poets presented The project is entitled "ii ee" and fea- selected poems from the recently re- tures 10 collaborations between the leased book, published by the Uni- two. Their selected work played with versity of Iowa Press, which provides verbal sounds and fragmented words a smattering of today's avante garde and sentences in a style reminiscent advancements in poetry. Editors Elis- of e.e. cummings, or possibly Wil- abeth Frost and Cynthia Hogue host- liam S. Burroughs. ed the event. Ostriker's reading of her poem "The "Innovative Women Poets" explores Volcano Sequence" was stylistically new techniques in the relationship similar to Fraser's, but possessed a between different aspects of poetry, religious angst and cynical overtones such as visual, analytical, verbal, that Fraser and the other poets lacked. and musical invocations. The eve- Another poem dealt with the massa- ning began with a reading from Mei cre of Jews by the Nazis at Kiev and Mei Berssenbrugge, a New York poet was interspersed by monologues by whose previous work reflects deep the 20th century composer Dmitri Live on campus for less than $27 a night studies of art, critical theory, and sci- Shostakovich. "Art destroys silence," ence. Her two selections, "Chinese she read near the end of this poem, Choose from 200 courses available this summer Space" and "I Love Morning," played which seemed to be a fitting and uni- at Fordham University, including: with themes of the passage of time, fying statement for the poets of the memory and experience; the former evening. 1 wrought around the memory of the The other "featured poets of the The Catholic Metropolis • American Pluralism house where she was born in Beijing. evening, Jeanne Heuving, Claudia (CALU 3450) (AALP2OO5) "Place can only be perceived through Keclan, and Leslie Scalapino, show- passing through it," Berssenbrugge cased choice selections of similarly 1 Movies and the American • The Holocaust noted about the poem before reading. exploratory free-form verse. Each Experience (CMLP 3108) (HSEU 3925) Her nostalgic poems were grounded poet's experimentation with meticu- in the reality of this statement and lously arranged words (or, in many served as an ample first course for the cases, the lack of words) provided rest of (he night. a fresh reconfiguration q,f contem- SUMMER SESSION Other notable readings of the six porary poetic conventions. ,• that were given included a multime- ilFQRDHAM MAY 29-JUNE 28 dia display by Kathleen Frascr, whose More Information an Poet.f'Oar JULY 2 - AUGUST 7 post-9/11 motifs dealt with more uni- Loud can be found via the FCLC versal ideas of modern confusion and English Department Web site (www. anxiety, as well us Alicia Oslriker's foniham.edu/acadcmics/programs_ historically inspired musings. Fra- atj'ordhamjenglish). www.fordham.edu/summer | OR CALL 1 (888) 4H-GRAD scr read first a selection which was The next Poets Out Loud will be written using nuggets of conversa- held Feb. 26th, at 7p.m. 16 I February 15,2007 FEATURES 1HE OBSERVER Dad's Kitclien: ^ all the college guys gone? Linguini with Women dominate LC's campus, hut the men don't seem to mind clams

By LAUREN DOLLARD ASST. FEATURES EDITOR

Until I entered college, my brother and I would spend every other weekend with our father. He would take us fishing, play catch, teach us how to change our own tires, how to check our oil; all of those typical Dad things. On Sundays though, he'd turn into Mr. Mom and spend the bet- ter part of a lazy afternoon in the kitchen, while my brother and I did our homework in the din- ing room or in our bedrooms. He would somehow whip up the greatest meals for us, comparable only to Mom's. Even th'ough our step-mom was always there, he insisted on doing his thing. His best dishes were ones with seafood (and anything BBQ, but what dad isn't good at that?) He had one, seafood pasta, a me- nagerie of various shell-fish over pasta that I would love to ruin by sneaking in behind him to steal J_r..iy PflkTtie Observer the crab and lobster meat off the One is the loneliest number for Vincent Azzinaro, FCLC '08, in this classroom. counter. He knew, of course, but always pretended not to, unless I By SHAWN TRIGGS man, FCLC '08. "Though I'm sure ing for males, said Beckman. in classes in which women are not had taken all of it. STAFF WRITER the girls get annoyed with a smaller Though not especially interested the majority, men are more likely My favorite dish was his lin- pool of guys to date in college." in sports, Nelson said mat the fact to dominate the discussion whereas guini and clams because it was It's no surprise that Lincoln Cen- JenniferCastillo,FCLC '08 echoed that FCLC lacks sports programs in classes in which women are the totally basic, but totally delicious. ter's campus has an uneven ratio of Beckman's idea, saying that having a is one drawback of a girl-favored majority, it is usually the opposite." I even preferred his over my men to women, in favor of the ladies. greater male population would make campus. Nelson plays intramu- Anthony Sylvester, FCLC '08, mom's! The smells of garlic, ol- But a recent study conducted by the it easier to find a date at FCLC. On a ral softball but said that going to also does not see a problem with be- ive oil and clam wafting through US Department of Education found positive note, Castillo said the mea- Rose Hill to participate in a sport ing in the minority at Fordham. He the house always drove me to the that this gender disparity is equally ger male population allows her to is not convenient for FCLC men. sajd that in terms of education, no kitchen. This was a dish I needed an issue at colleges throughout the concentrate more on her studies. • Nelson did say that FCLC is guy- male should really be affected. "It to know how do on my own. We country, not just at Fordham. Ac- Beckman credits this lack of tes- friendly, but to a certain type of certainly doesn't refrain many of would stand over the stove, just counting for 58 percent of college tosterone in college to an inherent guy. "I doubt the big jock type guy the males, such as myself, from ex- watching the sauce simmer in the undergraduates, females are the element of laziness among some would be as happy or welcome pressing ourselves freely in and out pan.. dominant gender, the study reported. males. He said.that this may be at FCLC," he said. "I don't think of the classroom," Sylvester said. He taught me how long was Mark Nelson, FCLC '09, said due to hormones, body chemis- they're into Decafes and Res- Nelson said that because there long enough, and that "to taste" that being outnumbered at Ford- try, or just a lack of motivation. Life 'arts 'n' crafts' nights. But I is such a unique male population always meant until I thought the ham is a good thing. "It's pretty "It makes sense to me that men think guys in the less traditional at Fordham, it can be difficult to taste was perfect. After the pasta easy to meet nice girls," he said. would come from a stereotype or sense, like musicians and ac- find people on campus who want had boiled long enough, I got to While FCLC may not be a culture that allows them to look tors, are very Fordham friendly." to do certain activities. "People test it to make sure it was fin- place where the typical sports-lov- at more jobs that do not require When it comes to the classroom, aren't that down to go to a live [mu- ished. ing jock is often seen, it is still a a college education," Beckman Andrew Clark, assistant professor sic] show if [America's Next] Top These are the memories that place where guys are happy to be. said. Work involving more physi- of French said, "I think many of the Model is on," he said. "I'm not too bring me back to being a kid, "I am perfectly comfortable with cal activity or military service women benefit greatly from being worried though, unless they make us when Dad could always make the imbalance," said Neal Beck- might seem to be more appeal- in the majority.' I've noticed that pee siting down." • me feel better by letting me in the kitchen with him. These are the smells I grew up with, and the foods that always make me think of home. So when I'm homesick, How I "support" the troops it's these kinds of recipes I whip good. I enjoyed strangers fewning all bly out of place, and needed to find up on my own. By MARISSA JURMARK over me. All of these men were into a new soldier to quench my thirst LITERARY EDITOR me, but I just wasn't feeling them. So Although the Army, Navy, Ma- Linguini with clams like any other red blooded American rine Corps and Air Force are rival There's nothing more exciting than female, I milked them for free drinks. branches, they share a passion un- 1 15 oz. can baby clams + the mutual understanding, between After a while, I began to think matched by any regular Joe and I juice you and a guy, that your relation- that something was wrong with enjoyed showing my "support" for 12 oz. bottle clam juice* ship beats to the sound of an oven me. Here I was, nearly 19, and all of them. I recklessly showed 1/4 c. olive oil timer, hi the past few years, I've had never felt anything hotter them momentary love, but never About 4 garlic cloves, perfected the art of nabbing hot sol- than tepid excitement for anyone. allowed any of them into my heart. chopped diers for about 15 minutes of bliss That is, until I met my first soldier. nality and try living through senses Experience has taught me any type 1/2 c. dry white wine before the romance is cut short by Up until that point, I was pretty for a change. I began to live each day of a relationship with a soldier could 1 lb. linguini a deployment. I've known so many much a prude. I think breaking with apurpose; I lived in love for him. never last any longer than 15 minutes Basil, to taste great men in uniform; men that have into Fort Knox might have been Shortly after, he was deployed over- because he was either moments away Parsley, to taste made me smile like no other; men easier than breaking into my pants. seas. A year later, he returned with a from a deployment or hopeful that he that have showed me a small piece But this sojdier was so cute and so serious girlfriend. Needless to say, my could use me as a Sperm receptacle *can be subsituted with extra of a world I didn't know existed. And smooth, I couldn't say no. I guess heart was in great need of a band-aid. while he wasn't home with the wife wine then it's done—off they go to take he had a sort of foreign, playful el- Although that chapter of my life (the latter being the most common their "grand tour" in the Middle East. ement to his personality that was didn't end the way I anticipated, I case). I didn't care as long as an end to Fill a saucepan halfway with hi high school, I started dating new and dangerously inviting. decided to familiarize myself with the romance was a reliable certainty. I olive oil. Add chopped garlic; let this wonderful "Graver's Corner," One night over coffee, he said, all the branches of the Armed Forces think that's why I like them so much. brown slightly, or until it starts kind of family guy. We were per- "Just live your life. You never know to see if I could re-capture the ex- Over the years, I've learned that to smell. Add clams, clam juice, fect together! Just like Meatloaf, when it's going to end." Our cof- citement I felt when I was with him. most soldiers have severe commit- and white wine, Let simmer on I gave him my word in "Paradise fee talk made quite an impression Long story short, I had a lot of fun but ment issues, and so do I. Soldiers low 15-20 minutes. At the same by the Dashboard Light[s]." But on me. What can I say, I guess he never seriously committed to anyone. were safe therefore, desirable. I re- time, put water on the stove for shortly after I started college, I be- had the golden ticket and I was I tried to date regular guys, but cently realized I lived with the notion the pasta. Once it starts to boil, gan to pray for the end of time, so ready for him to insert it in my slot. I just didn't feel the same level of that if I enter into a relationship know- add box; let cook 9-12 minutes, that 1 could end my time with him. After that night, I felt like a light excitement I did with men in uni- ing it's going to fail, the fall wouldn't or until finished. Drain the pasta; I spent my freshman year innocent- switch turned on. Metaphorically form. Several disastrous civilian hurt as badly when I'm dropped. place it in a serving bowl. Slowly ly meeting new men in shady bars that speaking, it was finally time for me dates later, I couldn't take it any* My first soldier taught me to pour the sauce over it, and mix. should have their licenses revoked to be reborn. For the first time, it felt more. Typical guys made rrie feel live in love, not fear—and like any for selling booze to minors. Life was right to recklessly let go of my ratio- like a fish on dry land. 1 was horri- other 21 year-old, I'm trying. • Serves 4-5 fordhamobserver.com THE OBSERVER February 15,2007 | FEATURES 17 24 Hours in Brooklyn Heights and.DUMBO

ByJOSHUACRUZ CONTlUBirnNG WRITER

Brooklyn is New York's most populous borough, with about 2.5 million people, according to the US Census Bureau. Unfortu- nately, Brooklyn often doesn't get its due credit despite its vibrant neighborhoods and distinctive style. Two of Brooklyn's most interesting neighborhoods are Brooklyn Heights and DUMBO. Brooklyn Heights is the first stop into Brooklyn on the 2 train and is a beautiful and historic area which is often referred to as the "Greenwich Village of Brook- lyn." "The Heights" has also had its fair share of famous residents, including Marilyn Monroe, Arthur Miller, W.H. Auden and Truman Capote, who wrote the novella-turned-Hollywood-classic "Breakfast at Tiffany's." DUMBO (which is an acronym for "Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass") is where mil- Charlotte Canner/lte Observer lion dollar lofts and artist studios Branch out into Brooklyn for delicious restaurants and breathtaking sights. intersect to create a neighborhood that is totally hip and happening. choice of low fat, soy, cow, plain Restaurant and Grimaldi's Piz- outh, Main and Front Street and talents to creating the best choco- Now what's there to do in these or vanilla yogurt. zeria. check put some of the stores like lates this side of the Atlantic. areas? After an energizing breakfast, BO Concept, West Elm, Power- Inside it "feels like stepping into head south on Henry Street to AFTERNOON house Arena, Bubby's Restaurant a small European specialty store," MORNING Montague Street. Here is where You have now entered and Bar and Jacque Torres Choco- boasts its We site, MrChocolate. There is a lot of fun to be had you will find stores, banks and DUMBO., After you have spent late. BO Concept (79 Front St.) and com. This place is very cozy in Brooklyn Heights, especially real-estate offices. Here you can time exploring the area, the best West Elm'(75 Front St.) sell sleek, and inside the air is thick with if you like to eat. For breakfast, also check out the local shops or place for lunch is the famous modem and urban furniture. These the smell of chocolate, which is chepk out Siggy's Good Food (76 major retailers like Ann Taylor Grimaldi's Pizzeria (19 Old Ful- are great places to go window made right on site. The classic . Henry St.) near the old St. George LOFT and Banana Republic. ton St.) Grimaldi's is said to have shopping, unless you have a few hot chocolate and the 72 percemt Hotel. Siggy's is a great place to Once you've had your fill of the best pizza in all of New York thousand dollars to spend on one dark chocolate bar are delicious, but eat if you enjoy organic, natural Montague Street, go east towards City. I know what you're thinking, chair (then, by all means, enjoy!) there are hundreds of other goodies and healthy foods. It's easy to tell •the river to the famous Brooklyn "Every pizzeria in the city claims Powerhouse Arena (37 Main to choose from. You can even make it's a cool place to eat by their Heights Esplanade also known as the same thing" but Grimaldi's has St.) is the headquarters for book your own box of chocolate! i front sign that says "Aliens eat "The Promenade," a raised park the awards to back up the claim. publisher Powerhouse Books. On By this time you'll probably be free." Inside you're greeted by a above the expressway. The views Grimaldi's was chosen as one of , the ground floor, there is a gallery exhausted and ready to go home. warm atmosphere that includes here are breathtaking. From the the best pizzerias in the U.S. by and bookstore, but the space is Leave Brooklyn in style by walking hardwood floors, a country promenade you have an unob- the Food Network, rated "Extraor- also used for art, music, fashion over the Brooklyn Bridge. If you kitchen decor and a front counter structed view of the Downtown dinary" by Zagat in 2006, and has and film exhibitions and perfor- are with friends, the Bridge is a full of fresh veggies and fruits. Manhattan skyline, the Brooklyn received AOL city guide awards in mances. Be sure to check them great place to chill and enjoy the Siggy's offers a great selection Bridge, Ellis Island, Liberty 2005,2006 and 2007. Grimaldi's out online at powerhousearena. skyline views or if you're with of smoothies and an organic Island, Governors Island and on is a great place to go with friends com to learn about upcoming someone special, this is one of breakfast menu that is delicious. clear days, even the Empire State since they do not sell individual special events. the most romantic spots in all of The Farmer Omelet, which has Building in all its phallic glory. slices, only whole pies. Sometimes New York City. goat cheese, tomatoes, scallions The Promenade is a great place to the line to get in extends all the NIGHT But these are just a few of lit- and basil is very tasty and one of take a leisurely walk as you head way up Old Fulton Street but, once Finally, there is Jacque Torres erally hundreds of places to the freshest omelets around. Not over to the Empire-Fulton Ferry you're in, it is pure pizza heaven. Chocolate (66 Water St.). Jacque go and see. Next time you're a fan of eggs? Try their granola Park, home of the Brooklyn Ice Once you have had your fill of Torres is a famous French gour- bored, give Brooklyn Heights and yogurt, which comes in your Cream Factory, Pete's Downtown pizza, head over to Water, Plym- met chef who decided to put bis and DUMBO a- holler. • The Top 5: Tips to survive a trip to Rose Hill

By ANNE MARIE DEVITO Hill: total mind and body prepa- 2. CAMOUFLAGE scheduled departure to guarantee exist. But it is actually located STAFF WRITER ration. You would not enter the YOURSELF. a seat Be prepared to rumble just outside the large, spiked boundaries of an obscure African If you own any type of Ford- for a rare seat in the front The gates of FU. When exiting There are multiple reasons why tribe with the naive hopes of ham-gear, wear it. Pile it on. Or activities that (ahem) go down the gates, conceal all valuable you did it. Perhaps it was the making friends! Nor should you take out an additional student in the back of the Ram Van may items such as iPods, cell phones desire to explore the unknown, enter McGinley without mild loan to purchase Fordham logo- lead to unsanitary seat conditions. or clean sneakers lest you fall the sudden urge to throw away trepidation about the fact that you ed items at our very affordable Once inside, beware of any brown victim to one of the Bronx locals $5, or the appealing prospect of will be an outsider. Imagine your bookstore. Everything you wear bags or other plastic containers who prey on Fordhamites. open fields of grass. Regardless expedition to the Hill as a trek into must have the alma mater in bold, filled with unknown substances. of the lapse in good judgment, the wildlife safari of some exotic capital letters. This will send The contents of those containers 5. TRAVEL IN PACKS. there's no turning back now. The location. Here's top five survival signs of unity to the inhabit- are most likely remnants of a 4 It is a good idea to blackmail a gods of OASIS have spoken. tips you'll need to be completely ants of the Hill that you come hi a.m. shift and may be hazardous friend in order to convince them You've enrolled in a class at Rose prepared and protected for the peace. Also, try not to shower at to your health. Do not talk to to take class with you. Traveling Hill. You're going to...'the other journey. Godspeed, friend. least two days before your class. anyone unless you're prepared alone immediately makes you an campus.' Nothing will alert that you're to carry on a conversation for at easy target. The Hill follows the First, breathe. You're not the first 1. BE A MINIMALIST from LC like the scent of fresh, least thirty minutes. It is nearly rules of Darwin and you will be Lincoln Center virgin to venture This is important for anyone organic papaya shampoo. If you impossible to end a Ram Van a weak one. If you are venturing into uncharted territory. There who insists on wearing Fendi forget and accidentally suds up, talk. alone, try to find migrations of have been many before you and shades and sipping their Starbucks dab your pulse points with some sweatpants-wearing Rose Hill- many will follow, so don't let your Caramel Macchiato in a 10 a.m. - potent alcohol and wear clothes 4. KNOW YOUR ians and linger behind them as if imagination run rampant with philosophy class. The nearest from the bottom of your laundry SURROUNDINGS. you're part of the group. There all the tales you've heard. Is it coffee shop in the Bronx is White hamper. This will fool the Rose Once you arrive at Rose Hill, is strength in numbers. If, for true—is there really a field where Castle and unless you're a fan of Hillians into believing that you do not wander aimlessly as if some reason, you find yourself a bundle of sheepskin is thrown stamp-sized burgers made of an too are heading to class after a you're a tourist. You should separated from the herd, do not by spandex-clad men? Is there unknown meat substance in the night of binge drinking. have studied campus maps and panic! Simply seek refuge at one really an all-you-can-cat buffet of morning, have a hearty breakfast perhaps even photocopied a tiny of the local watering holes (the cafeteria gourmet food? Arc there at home. Take only what you will 3. RAM VAN ETIQUETTE. version in your wallet for quick Deli, Rodriguez Coffeehouse or really students who buy and actu- need to survive to the Hill. We're Unless you want to sit beside a and ensy reference. Chances are the Millennium Grille). Make al- ally wear Fordham hoodies? Oh, talking one slim notebook, one homeless woman named Cookie your class will be in a building liances with these simple phrases: the madness! , sharpened pencil (which can also on the D-trnin, you will be riding known as FM1I (the meaning of "Wnnna grab a slice at Pugsy's lat- Once you've allowed the initial double as a weapon if necessary one of the burgundy death traps the acronym is unknown even by er?" or'Thckcggcr on Bathgatc was panic to die down with a mild circumstances arise), one bottle of known as the Ram Van. Naturally, Fordham faculty). No one has so dead last night, man," or in cases sedative, keep in mind that there vitamin-infused water and maybe this is not free and you must sign heard of this building and many of emergency, "Go Rams." After is only one way to survive Rose a small bag of dried fruit. Maybe. up three hours earlier than your will convince you that it docs not all, we're on the samo team. • • 18 FEATURES I February 15,2007 THE OBSERVER fordhamobserver.com Wrapping it up, New Bookmark this: best of the Web York style Sites that will have you clicking awaydn delight By JULIAN OQUENDO In fact, the price of an average By PJ WILLIAMS anything about legality, these munity surrounding garage band COPY EDITOR condom three-pack ranges between STAFF WRITER movies are both free and legal. is equally impressive. This site $7-8, the cheapest being $4.99 for The catch.is that they're the may not be the next Myspace , Ever'found yourself in New York Trojan Magnums. . Though there are so many movies that nobody wanted the or Facebook, but it provides a City in need of a condom and a map "NYC remains the epicenter of Web sites out there on the in- rights to and now belong to the community of reviewers who at the same time? What about a sou- the HIV/AIDS in the U.S. More formation superhighway, most public. Sure, there are a lot of you'll probably find to be more venir of the city that could also pro- than 100,000 New Yorkers are liv- people limit themselves to movies that are just plain awful reliable than a bunch of corpo- tect you from sexually transmitted ing with HTV, but thousands don't sites like Facebook and You- but sometimes, that's half the rate executives trying to push diseases? Well, you can have both, know they're infected," according Tube. Those sites may be cool fun of watching them. Some of a new artist onto the public. as Mayor Bloomberg's adminis- to the official New York City Web in their own way, but there the movies available include Finally, your best source for tration will soon unveil New York site, www.nyc.gov. are several hidden gems out "Santa Claus Conquers the everything on the Internet is City's official condom. In the hopes Condoms may reduce the risk of. there in cyberspace that are Martians," the original Dracu- Digg.com. Digg is a bit dif- of reducing the spread of sexually sexually transmitted diseases, but definitely worthy of a visit. la "Nosferatu," and of course, ferent from all the other news transmitted diseases, New York's they are not 100 percent safe, ac- The first site at the top of my the worst of the worst, "Plan Web sites that you've seen on health department is releasing a cording to the U.S. Food and Drug bookmarks bar is benheck. 9 from Outer Space." You will the Web. Instead of editors de- condom that, with its snazzy de- Administration Web site. The best com. This site has a little bit of need to install the program Bit- ciding what's newsworthy, the sign, will appeal to the public. defense is abstinence, but it'has everything, but is primarily a Torrent, but the Web site pro- Web site's visitors do. Anyone There is speculation as to the con- been proven. that sexually active showroom for some of the cool- vides links to where you can get can submit a story, and if people dom wrapper design. One idea is a individuals who use latex condoms est video game console modi- that. Just be warned, some of like it enough, they can vote map of the subway stations; another have reduced chances of acquiring fications. These range from a these downloads can take up to by "Digging" it. If enough could include images of local NYC an.STD. single-handed Xbox 360 con- 50 hours, which is kind of silly people "Digg" it then the story attractions. College level students are highly troller for the handicapped, to since the movies themselves is moved up to the homepage, New York's health department at risk. A number of college news- the site's latest project, a porta- are usually under two hours. where it will be available to a gives away about 1.5 million con- papers across the country have ble Nintendo Wii. Dubbed the Though it may take a while to wider audience. New stories doms a year for free, according to reported increases or high rates in Wii Laptop, this tiny machine download, once complete, the . are added dozens of times per the department. The NYC condom the number of sexually transmitted packs all the motion sensing files are all set to be played on day. Conventional news sto- will also be freely available to or- infections and diseases among stu- fun of the Nintendo Wii into an iPod, PSP or even a PDA. ries, tech tips and tricks and ganizations or businesses that order dents. A report by the American So- portable form. Benheck.com For those who are into music, anything other cool things that them from the New .York Depart- cial Health Association, posted on also has its own podcast which there's GarageBand.com. This can be found on the Web are ment of Health and Mental Hy- their Web site, reported that "more focuses on gaming and other place is great for listening to covered by the Web site. Dig- giene. than half of all people will have an aspects of the tech industry. independent artists or if you're gnation is Digg's official pod- According to a report by the As- STD/STI at some point in their life- The hosts of the Benheck pod- a musician, uploading your cast which airs weekly and dis- sociated Press, New York will be time." cast aren't afraid of being bi- own music. All kinds of genres cusses the top stories on Digg. working with the makers of Life- "I'm not even surprised," said ased by giving their opinions, are covered here, ranging from The site's influence has become style condoms. Fiorina Coen Hunter, FCLC '09. a refreshing change of pace country to rap, rock and every so widespread that some news sub-genre in. between. One of sites have included Digg but- Maria Gorodetsky, FCLC '09, "Everybody [sleeps with] every- from most tech journalists. the coolest features is that Ga- tons, so that submitting stories found the idea of the NYC condom body else. It would be something So you like movies, but like rageBand.com also lists when to the site couldn't be easier. somewhat amusing and said,"People you get so easily." most college students, your musicians will be playing local- Even the. Observer's Web site ' could use the maps, definitely. Life- Will a New York City condom money supply is limited. No ly, so if you listen to something has a Digg button for any sto- style [brand condoms] are terrible. have people showing their love need to worry though, thanks online and like it, you can go to ries that may appeal to a wider They break ridiculously often. But for New York while making love? to PublicDomainTorrents. see them in person. The com- audience. Like this one... • condoms are seriously expensive." Who knows, only time will tell. • com. Now before you say FOR A XCEPTIONAL

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Wf' " ' QUINNIHAC! llNlVKRSltT., IjNTAL I PlSPUTK Rt'SOLUTlON'I I %f\ .' SCHOOL OF LAW. .-.'ft^1 '', ' Ilamden, Connecticut ' v'i'.-'.' .;,'•• •. fordhamobserver.com THE OBSERVER I February 15,2007 | FEATURES 19 Music to Our Ears Ruckus provides free music downloads for college students

By GABRIELLE LINZER One downside to Ruckus is CONTRIBUTING WRITER that it isn't compatible with the G5 Mac or any earlier Mac mod- . Does a little twinge of guilt els. The Web site states, "We pass over you every time you cannot create a Mac version of log on to Limewire to download our client until Windows Me- a new Ludacris song? Does a dia subscription DRM becomes paranoid sensation take control available on Mac." Despite this of you, causing you to nervous- unfortunate detail, "Ruckus can ly wonder if you could be one already be run on all newer-gen- of the few arrested for down- eration Mac's that have the Intel loading illegal content? Ruckus chip," Lawson said. The banners may be the cure to your guilt- that are- plastered respectively driven paranoia. This free new throughout Ruckus are another- downloading program caters downside to the site. However, to any college student with a to most, these pesky distractions ".edu" e-mail address and (sur- are a small price to pay to avoid prise!) it's legal and actually has the 99 cents-a-song iTunes fee. the music you're looking for. Ruckus has just recently broken "College students are the most into the mainstream from a smaller engaged consumers of digital group of colleges who had private media and music. We wanted contractual agreements with the to provide a legal, and now downloading service. As of Jan. 22, free, way for college students 2007, Ruckus made the decision to to get it," said Chris Lawson, release their service to all colleg- Director of Corporate Devel- es. Due to this very recent public opment for Ruckus Network. emergence, many Fordham stu- Ruckus offers over two mil- dents are still unaware of its pres- lion virus-free tracks including ence. "I've never heard of Ruckus," . every genre of music, from in- said Nikki Lively, FCLC '09. "I die rock to rap. Entire albums have Limewire. It's kind of slow are also available for download and unreliable. If you're look- in an easily accessible format. ing for music that is not so well The site also features down- known, you usually can't find it." loadable music videos, movies The majority of FCLC stu- and TV shows. The site, simi- dents are readily willing to ad- lar to the iTunes music store, mit their ongoing usage of ille- provides a detailed search en- gal music downloading services gine with full access to every "I use Bearshare," said Loren artist's discography. iTunes is Avellino, FCLC '07. "I do not a bit more organized, as Ruck- feel the slightest bit guilty pirat- us has chosen to lump music ing and stealing music because videos, TV shows, and movies I am a poor college student." into their video portion of the Though many FCLC students site, while iTunes has a sepa-' avidly use a variety of illegal rate link for each. The musical downloading programs, they selection in the iTunes store is are aware of the potential dam- also more diverse than that of age they may cause through vi- Ruckus, despite the latter's im- ruses. "A long time ago I used pressive collection of media. Kazaa and it messed with my Ruckus serves as both an inter- computer. It gave me weird vi- active tool and a media source. ruses. When I got a new com- Ruckus mimics Facebook by al- puter, I started using iTunes," lowing each member to create a said Sophie Mears, FCLC '10. personal profile and write on the ; The majority of FCLC students Fear not, petty thief. Thanks to Ruckus downloding service, now you can fill your iPod with free and more importantly, legal downloads. "walls" of their friends. A search seem unsatisfied with their on- engine allows users to locate going use of Limewire and other "With great access of infor- morally just service to col- stead of holding your breath members of Ruckus from their illegal downloading programs. mation there comes great re- lege, students who can't afford and closing your blinds the school. In addition, members Ruckus may be a safe, useful sponsibility," said FCLC com- the prices of iTunes, but also next time you open Limewire are also allowed to share their alternative to these undepend- munications professor Monique can't live without a constant on your computer, you might. track playlists with one another. able, virus-ridden creations. Fortune. Ruckus provides a supply of new music. So in- want to give Ruckus a try. Running in the city that never sleeps

By KEVIN MCGARRY apartment to the Port Authority. Street in silence, listening to our iPods. was recognized STAFF WRITER During our half-conscious sprint, This is the stop in the Bronx that we drinking a beer from a brown paper We got home and tumbled into we passed the two 24-hour grocery usually exit from, where we are often bag. I asked him for the time. He shot bed, spandex and all. We turned off My twin brother, Casey and I, are stores'and diner near our apartment the only ones to exit since it is the final me a skeptical look, slowly switched all alarms, made sure the blinds were junior transfers to Fordham from San- We casually jogged by numerous stop on (he Uptown A train. Because his cigarette into his other hand and closed, and again, with no words, we ta Barbara, California and are the only people walking around and many yel- we thought we were running late, we reached lethargically for his pocket He went to sleep knowing neither of us two members of the Fordham crew low taxis. When we got down to the jogged up to the street and glanced pulled out his cell phone, looked at it would make the trip again at 5 am team from Lincoln Center. Crew re- uptown A train platform, I got the fun- at the comer grocery store near the for what seemed like forever and final- When I woke up later that morning, the quires immense amounts of time and ny feeling that something just wasn't subway exit, where we have stopped ly said, "It's 2:30, man." Now I knew entire experience seemed like a distant discipline, which includes waking up right about this particular morning. numerous times for water or a mom- exactly what I liad done, but I kept my dream. at an ungodly hour six days per week. There was a drunken couple yell- ing snack. It was closed. We didn't composure and replied, "Thanks a lot, This very humbling experience has Because we live in the city, we must ing belligerently at one another, with verbally acknowledge this fact and bro." taught me that this city really doesn't get up an hour earlier than the rest of no regard for the people around them. just gave each other a look as if to say, As I started to run back towards sleep. While many of us are asleep, the team and take the subway up to the All of a sudden, the woman began to "That's weird." We jogged over the where my brother bad been waiting, I dreaming of warm, tropical places, Bronx to meet them at the Harlem Riv- vomit all over the ground in front of 207th Street Bridge in the dark like we prepared the right words to say to him. the city is still bustling as if the sun er. We usually get up around 5 a.m., her and immediately after, eniptcd nonnally do and along the way, passed I knew that I would have to tell him holds no relevance to lime. As New get to the subway by 5:30 a.m., and in deep, disturbing laughter. Now, an old man who was bundled in warm what time it actually was and tliat we Yorkers, we are all in and out of var- finally arrive at the boatliouse around because my brother and I are twins, clothing. He gave us a strange look. I would either have to run back to the ied degrees of consciousness at dif- 6:15 a.m. This commute is not easy, we have this odd ability to understand wondered what his problem was. subway, go home and miss practice, ferent limes throughout the day and but we have grown quite accustomed each other's expressions as if we were When we got there, we didn't see the or find a Dunkin Doughnuts and wail night. In the background, there is a to it, and we have "gotten it down." speaking lo one another. After this team vans parked like we nonnally three hours lor our teammates to ar- constant hum of noise honking, si- One Thursday morning, I awoke woman upchucked no more than 10 do. My brother looked at me with his rive. I knew he would be mad. When rens, chatter and music. Maybe that and glanced at the clock next (o my feet away from us, my brother and f pondering look, "Maybe they're run- he heard (lie options, he looked at is why, whether awake or asleep, our tied. With one hazy j;lana\ I sprang exchanged knowing glances that said, ning late, too." We wailed in the cold me in disbelief, and just started run- thoughts seem to fuse into one anoth- out of bed to wake Casey up. We "New York City is gnarly! Why arc and darkness lor a while, contemplat- ning in (be very direction we had just er under a constant film of the city's rushed around our apaitmcnl and Ik-re duink people, yelling and puk- ing the limitless possibilities of why come from. I followed as we ran back stream of life. And maybe that's why Ihmlically dressed in our spniulex ing in (he subway at live in the morn- our loam hadn't arrived yet, belbre over the 2()7lh Slice! I Si idge logelher. running in the middle of the night Under Armor lor (lie chilly morning ing? That is straight li>ul!"Anilso we we finally decided to check the time. r'inally seated on (lie train, seeing Icels so much like running just before breeze on the river. We found our Me- sat quietly in our spandex, hoping to Neither of us had our cell phones or people coming home from graveyard the sunrise, but only if you lliink you trocards, grabbed some water bodies, gd lo the hoalhotiscon time. watches with us, so I mil to ihc near- shill.s, we discussed the various signs are running jusl before sunri.se. • and began our usual jog from our We rode the (rain all the way lo 2()7lh est comer store where a young guy that "in retrospect," we should have >. A ... y . v

THE OBSERVER LITERARY February 15,2007 everything changes.

By CRISTINA DIMEGLIO STAFF WRITER

:./;.*,,/ ," ','-. Vv • Everything changes Everything changes , • •"' * :..-, •":~* and maybe I've been misunderstood the people who once brought the sunlight „? \ ; .-V -7 ;f "V.; aP884s0^°f triangles into dark tunnels : ... •'. ••'-'.-" . each interconnecting to me resurrecting your being into life once more.

,, •'-. ; it' -=s a known fact you cannot change Mind's now in playful solitude whoyouare swimming through the currents of life .; , but everything manipulates my god, how it all changes... . • .,' \ , and surrenders in every breath you take Ready to take on the world feeling the pain and the joy ready to leave behind ,•""'.' - of a past long forgotten what got you there.

: remembered in the twilight of those moments when you're almost,, Bright lights and loud music , ~ 5, . , asleep unfamiliar voices "-I,. ' " \l,l . iworidering, how time has consumed all the smiles unmarked territory . -••.:-' \ andthetears filling a void that has never been completed . -,;,„.'; ..' :v :y\y \• ;' . . all of the memories Some things you cannot change ,. . -; ----' : :JJv# ?&& i.', .-:VV"J . • i~ '*• and candid photographs. and mostly it never makes sense , . .. 1 •' > ^.cf"''"''". :''';A V,;,.,' . , I remember the simplicity how could one person save you? , . .. - : ;::,; • :. v '•>••' . pf feehiig someone's hand touch yours bittersweet acquaintances , . • ' . ', .. ,v enguKed in silent conversation and superficiality , , , '<',/::• ••• „• ; and walking away with soulful tranquility how it becomes a niet that surrounds.the good.in you. ',. !'*-'',"-"" '•", .- when sweet kisses brought innocent pleasure Sometimes you drown within yourself >.. \. • 1 • and bonversations that remained timeless in your youth loathing in these currents • Everything changes waiting for a savior • . . . > ,.'">' , . , you're never the same something to save you from yourself. . . ' . the friendships you left behind Wanting to let go. Y'.the loves you've never uttered a word of again but still not ready.to let lopse.yout grip , " , stepping stones that brought you to this place clinging to the comfort and safety you've always known , ;, •«. , , " you'd never thought you would be not ready to shatter .. \' , , , When days become a hazy mist and bringin' into this new world ? -, •% '••...' .: ,M ,, •. , and you feel you've become someone old baggage V .-:, 1 '•-;'-,''•• •-• you'd never thought you'd be old hurts ' . • '-Vi'<7. v,', _,..•'-. I miss those days old happiness

- , those days that is never more real than it seemed back theni • ' , watching the sunset but everything changes '• f',,'"'•-'*'v:h".'vi: • drown under the days i never thought I would lose if you're ready for it or not •' . ' . ,\-v^ -;. ••!'.' • missing the purity of what once was if you're willing to accept it or not ^ • *.*-"^' •,".'" and see'ng how tainted innocence has become. if you're running away from it or walking toward it , ' 4f • '. .« ' The space between it all it all changes • .„,••'*';, . , the silence of recognition in the blink of an eye.... searching deeper into the heart of all you knew and all you have come to know.

• , 1. ....

. LITERARY I February 15,2007 I THE OBSERVER fordhamobserver.com WATER By ELIZABETH FOREST CONTRIBUTING WRITER I held his voice together in my hands. But like water, I could not catch it. My fingers, whittled to bone for winter wilder, standing dumb, went to sleep and then he broke!

So these are tears. All this long, I thoughtthat you were one from water. And where I found my eyes drought, I went to the river and when the river would not see me, would not give its body to the faucet, I ran into the sea and the sea left only stains, but far from me, and not my own.

In my dreams, I woke, lying in a pool of warm water, drifting. I found my face kissed with falling marigolds and balanced one for a moment on my eyelash, everything at rest. And I was in tears that could not break the surface to let the joy out, mystified, only the delicate chime of the ripples awake, sing- ing. The wind took its fingers, caught them on my naked limbs, left them for a moment in thought, swept them up again, just along the tips of my breasts, my chin, my eyelids, my forehead. But the rain came down just then, violent and cold, and I swam.into the water, down far down, to the warmth and somehow the Cold could follow, and I felt every drop deny law, fall forward, like bullets until the water fell away that it was again only just kissing the underneath. The water then, turned cold and the bullets scalding hot, and from the mud people rose and carried giant banana leaves above their heads. The leaves protected them until they shriveled up into dark fuchsia petals, curling and dry in the wetness, falling down into the earth, draining away. I ran to the soil, dug after them. Then I fell in, and woke up. I smelt the rain, but not jungle rain, city rain. Turning around I saw a jungle through the tall windows and I thought the glass would protect me but I became a jungle anyway. 10-point Berthold Akzidenz Grotesk (TI) Condensed outline .goes right herey, with some more information added herey axyxyxyxyxyxy

*Satis/actiori

•(••

By MARISSA JURMARK LITERARY EDITOR

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JL. oouur sweet contours entice me ' • , tainted, your body loses its elegance * :f'.' • enrapturing me with tender scents Thethrill'dissipates, " v. . ,v..'; -'. ,.-s • ,

I take you in; taking me... •„' Young Apple, ' Jus ti ce By MELANIE BERNSTEIN taking me away into a forbidden world only large I used you. . , .'•'••- ,, CONTRIBUTING WRITER enough; for us too? - ' -_ •',

, every drop - ( I caress your purple silhouette paying careful .- I used your wetness for my own pleasure. attention- We talked for hours; And I let our love affair evaporate into the air Everything I told him was a lie. it- -" Ji*. ' giving you the utmost prestige, Genius penetrated from toddler's applesauce. Cautious consideration; I animated your existence and let you die with I am told I contaminated his heaven \ ; - 4: consideration of your Golden Dynamism. ' the change of the seasons In which he worked so hard to brainwash: ,•, . Encouragement that feeds on self pity. • I smooth my awkward limbs all over your tight Dear, Dear, Perfume Bottle... . Taking over so fast that it seeps out like water, only allowing bulging body droplets You served your purpose; • ';>,„*' / To stick to his hands, A body fit... The weak, nostalgic, individuals. , • Now: . -^cX.CA'" Your followers are now pampered by a shadow. fit for expelling dreamy torture into the garbage _' V \? ,J^% cqA y^* Now you're on Ripple Street Torture fit for those who breathe you in... Where you invest to torture me You Go, All the while making bad poems out of my criticism. Fill me Imagination uses what it needs and discards the rest, With If anyone should know this it's you. • .' fill my entire being with your sweet aroma; Many I was pleasant with etiquette Your unforgettable intoxication Until you crept your way through scum. More I now lay awake addicted to plans, of betrayal, 1 leave my aged fingerprints on your raised gold- Perspiring revenge. en trim to follow. 22 SPORTS I February 15,2007 I THE OBSERVER fordhamobserver.com

FACE PAINT FILES Amateur Earnings ~ Hockey: Cooler than you think ByMARKTURIANO around the sport. One reason STAFF WRITER parents do not involve their children in hockey is because Maybe it is because I am. of all of the costs associated from Massachusetts, but I love with being parents of hockey hockey almost as much as players. Hockey requires far life itself. The fast pace, the more equipment than most constant action and the need for other sports, the cost of which players to possess both power can certainly add up. Add in and finesse has had me ad- the cost of time on the ice and dicted to the sport since I was transportation to rinks, and it a child. However, according . is safe to say that hockey does to a recent Gallup Poll, only, a require a level of financial minute portion of the Ameri- stability which not everyone can population shares my love possesses. Even if the money, for the coolest game on earth. does exist for a child to play While 43 percent of Ameri- hockey, the child's parents cans claimed football as their must be willing to wake up at • favorite sport to watch, only 5 a.m. on weekend mornings 2 percent declared the same to drive their kid to practice. affection for hockey. When With this level of dedica- I observed the results of this tion required, the number of poll, I could not believe my children who are introduced to eyes. Even more astonishing the sport becomes limited. It was the fact that 'sports' such is hard to compete with sports as auto racing, golf and even like basketball, where all that is figure skating were deemed required to attend the afternoon more popular than hockey. practices is a pair of sneakers. How some of these activjties, When children are not intro- several of which I do not even duced to the game/ the odds view as real sports, could be are against them becoming fans seen as more popular than my later in life. beloved hockey simply boggled The current state of the Na- my mind. After some thought, tional Hockey League is also I came to several conclusions severely hurting the sport's as to why hockey has fallen popularity. The fact that an upon such tough times. entire season was recently lost The first reason for hockey's to a lockout turned away all unpopularity is that it is a very but true fans; and this decline regional sport. While it makes in fandom has major television perfect sense to play a sport stations preferring not to broad- which requires a sheet of ice in cast hockey games. The aver- New England, it is rather illogi- age fan now has to go out of Fonhim Univentty Athletic Department cal to play that same sport in his way to watch most games, Are college athletes being short changed? most states south of the Mason- thus eliminating the majority of DixonLine. casual fans. With the cheap- I grew up right next to a col- est New: York Rangers ticket priced at $30 plus convenience ByROBWHTTBECK that athletes have received from players, it would most likely be lege with a Division I hockey STAFF WRITER their own parents. Many of these a set standard—the same amount program, and attending this charges, attending a profession- athletes simply cannot afford to for any player at any university in school's hockey games helped al game is even less reasonable For decades, collegiate athlet- sustain themselves because their the nation. This would inevitably build my love of the sport. for the casual fan. ics has balanced forming a con- often demanding practice sched- result in a Heisman Trophy can- While professional hockey The sport of hockey is taking nection with professional sports ules do not give them the time didate earning the same amount teams are located all around some action to increase its pop- and maintaining its amateur to find part-time jobs. In cases as any player on any team, which the country, colleges with ularity, such as instituting rule nature. However, college-level where athletes do manage to find is not only somewhat unfair, but high quality hockey programs changes, which increase the sports, especially football and part-time employment, such jobs could possibly lead to team dis- are almost all centered in a speed of the professional game basketball, have become many have to be sanctioned according sension. Furthermore, a medio- handful of regions. With high and the number of goals scored. universities' prime source of in- to the NCAA's complicated rules. cre team in a weak conference prices and the inaccessibility of However, there is still not much come. Each year, universities These conditions have led many would be forced to pay its players professional teams acting as a that can be done to resolve make millions in revenue from critics to demand that the NCAA the same amount as a team con- deterrent for attending profes- hockey's lack of accessibility. their respective sports programs, pay college athletes some sort of tending for a national champion- sional games, the college game Every other major sport seems selling thousands of tickets per wage as payment for the revenue ship. This could debilitate the provides a product of almost readily available on many levels game. Some of the more promi- they generate during the year. programs of smaller universities equal quality for only a frac- in cities across the country, but nent athletic programs, such as Although this proposed wage by forcing them to face another tion of the price. Since many hockey is barely on the map in those of the University of Michi- seems like a fair and justifiable costly expense. Many critics parts of America do not have a places like New York. Yet with gan and the University of Notre proposition, there are some is- would also argue that players are college team in their vicinity, its speed, hard hitting and team Dame, make millions more in sues that would inevitably arise if already compensated in the form the number of fans exposed to play, it is one of the most excit- television contracts. If a team collegiate athletes began receiv- of the scholarships they often re- the game is below that of most ing sports to watch. Hopefully, is lucky enough to make a bowl ing payment. One of the defin- ceive to play sports. other sports. people will begin to experience appearance or reach the postsea- ing aspects of college sports is The debate over whether colle- A large part of becoming hockey again, and the game can son tournament, the respective the passion and excitement pos- giate athletes should be paid will a hockey fan is growing up return to what it once was. • schools earn bonuses. The top sessed by amateur athletes. This likely continue over the next few tier coaches in college sports, passion is derived mainly from years. An NCAA investigation such as Notre Dame's Charlie the enthusiasm of athletes who has already begun into the fea- Weis and University of Southern still play sports for the love of the sibility and implications of this California's Pete Caroll, earn an sport rather than the love of fame. proposed player salary. There are , annual salary that is equal to that Many of these athletes put in that some problems with it, but they of many professional coaches. extra effort because they hope to can be overcome if the NCAA It seems ironic that universities one day turn professional. Others is prudent with its creation and across the country can dole out realize that it is the last time they implementation of this new rule. millions of dollars to coaches will be able to play in organized The NCAA must remember that and athletic directors and rake in sports. These athletes play with the rule should be instituted for even more in revenue each year, unrivaled effort because they only two reasons: to provide play- but not a single player in any col- have not yet fallen victim to the ers with enough money to sustain legiate sport is paid. complacency that has claimed themselves through college and In fact, the NCAA has severe the careers of many professional to ease the extreme restrictions it restrictions that investigate and athletes. imposes. As long as the NCAA often penalize athletes if there The implementation of wages does not allow collegiate athlet- is even an implication that they could detract from this energy ics to reach the ridiculous heights were paid or put in contact with that makes college football, for of its professional counterparts, a sports agent. These regulations one, what it is. There'would also there is no reason why these ath- have become so overbearing be the problem of equality among letes should not be given at least Joof that the NCAA has actually con- athletes. If the NCAA were to a portion of the money they help Another reason liockoy is a lilllo inoro intorostino than oilier snorts. ducted investigations into gifts implement a form of salary for its generate. • fordhambbserver.com THE OBSERVER, February 15,2007 SPORTS 23 NBA gets ready for All-Star weekend and second half of season By ADAM KAUFMAN. MANAGING EDITOR while also putting up about nine rebounds, three assists and two blocks. Back in November, I wrote Forward: Dirk Nowitzki, • that this would be the Season Dallas Mavericks—Nowit- that NBA Commissioner David zki continues to prove that his Stern had been waiting for. goofy demeanor and lanky body Now, as we approach All-Star are merely a front. The man weekend, that statement seems is straight up dangerous. The true, but not for the reasons scariest part: he's shooting bet- that we all expected. Although ter than ever, making the Mavs LeBron James, Dwayne Wade a particularly terrifying playoff and Carmelo Anthony are all team. having good seasons, they are Center: Tim Duncan, San also all playing for teams with Antonio Spurs—Duncan is not records hovering around .500. the kind of player that it's cool In addition, Stern's synthetic to like. He's a soft-spoken, ball failed miserably, and big- substance-over-style, clean-cut name rookies like Adam Mor- guy. On the surface, he almost rison and Rudy Gay haven't seems nice enough to render made the huge impact that himself harmless. But then, each many expected. and every year, Duncan comes But luckily for Stern, some out and leads San Antonio to a chips have fallen in his favor. lengthy playoff run and reminds Gilbert Arenas has made good everyone about a valuable les- on his promise of "The Take- son: don't ever take the Spurs ' over", becoming a bonafide off your radar. star and a one-man media circus (in the good way). Allen Some other observations at the Iverson's trade to Denver, as midway mark: achingly long of a process as it was, served as one of the big- 1) Although the Iverson-Nug- gest sports moves in the past 10 gets marriage seemed to be years. And, most importantly, a a very happy one at first, Jhe crop of young players—Caron honeymoon may be coming to Butler, Deron Williams, Kevin a close. The Nuggets are los- Martin and Dwight Howard, to ing too many games for A.I. to name a few—have been hav- remain content. ing easily career-best seasons, » 2) With Amare Stoudamire " therein reminding everyone just (Suns) and Dwight Howard how deep the league is at the (Magic) already playing domi- moment. With that, let's take nantly, and Greg Oden (Ohio * a look at my personal All-Star State) standing on the lottery choices: horizon, it appears that the NBA may be heading toward a Big Eastern Conference: Man Revolution. And consider- ing how athletic and exciting Guard: Gilbert Arenas, Wash- those players are, that may not Jeffrey Bsan/IHami tteaM/UCT ington Wizards—This season, The Miami Heaf s Dwayne Wade slam dunks over the Milwaukee Bucks' Dan Gadzuric and Jiri Welsch. be a bad thing at all. Arenas has not only proved 3) Speaking of Amare and that his being left off of Team the Suns, I'm sticking with USA was some kind of half- manager's dream come true. boards and does the dirty work my early-season prediction of baked conspiracy to rob the His per-game stats: 29 points, that so many scorers are afraid Phoenix making a champion- world of seeing one of the most eight assists, five rebounds, to do; and he keeps a low ship run. After its 17-game win exciting athletes in any sport, two steals and over a block, profile in the shadow of the streak, can anyone really doubt but he has done it all with a with great percentages to boot. phenomenon known as Gil. this team? Sure there are some big, goofy grin on his face. It It remains to be seen, though, if Forward: LeBron James, great playoff teams in the West, should be obvious to everyone Wade will be able to carry the Cleveland Cavaliers—Yes, including the Mavericks, Spurs by now that Gil is deserving Heat to a playoff spot, let alone LeBron's numbers are slightly and Lakers, but the Suns have of any accolade he receives another championship run. down from last year, and no, been playing on a different level and highly capable of making Forward: Caron Butler, the Cavs don't quite look like a this season, and I see no reason everyone pay for the accolades Washington Wizards—It's hard championship-bound team. But why that would stop before they he doesn't receive. not to love Butler. He's got those things do not change the get a trophy. Guard: Dwayne Wade, Miami the kind of tragic/triumphant fact that LeBron can take over 4) I'm also sticking with Heat—D. Wade's numbers biography that's impossible to a game when it counts, which my earlier prediction that the this year are like a fantasy root against; he gets under the might be enough to keep the Toronto Raptors will make Cavs around until June. it to the second round of the Center: Jermaine O'Neal, playoffs. Here are three good Indiana Pacers—Here I must reasons why: first, Chris Bosh is admit my journalistic bias. just as likely to hit a mid-range Do you have PANIC ATTACKS? As a diehard Knicks fan, it is jumpshot as he is to dunk on damn near impossible for me to someone's face without feeling If so, you may be eligible to participate choose any Pacer for any kind an ounce of remorse; second, in one of TWO RESEARCH STUDIES of accolade. O'Neal, however, T.J. Ford and Jose Calderon are at New York Presbyterian Hospital- is proving himself as the most becoming quite a terrific point Weill Cornell Medical College: well-rounded big man in the guard duo; whether they play East, though that might change interchangeably or simultane- as Dwight Howard continues to Hairy E. Walker/HCT ously, they can both move the 1. You may be eligible to receive one improve his game. Washington Wizard Caron Butler leaps over ball around very well, and third, of three NO COST forms of Jumaine Jones of the Phoenix Suns. two of the team's rookies, Jorge psychotherapy (talk therapy) with an Western Conference: Garbajosa and Andrea Bargnani, experienced clinician (Ages 18-70) are both looking very promis- No medication used Guard: Steve Nash, Phoenix He seems to be playing with ing. Suns—What is there to say a sense of maturity that is not 5) Lastly, I must mention the OR about Nash that hasn't been said only improving his own game, thing that has me the most opti- already? There's not a team in but is inspiring career years in mistic about the current state of the league that wouldn't rob, guys like Smush Parker and the NBA—awesome haircuts. 2. You may be eligible to earn $200 cheat or steal to get a guy like Luke Walton. Here's hoping that From Kevin Martin's (Kings) for participation in an MRI study and this. He's quick, he's a great his scorer's duel with Arenas fade to Anderson Varejao's (Cav- receive NO COST CBT or medication passer and more than ever will continue for years to come. aliers) impossibly tight curls, after receiving an MRI (Ages 18-50) before, he's a true leader on the Forward: Elton Brand, Los Ron Artest's (Kings) mohawk court. If he carries his new, fiery Angeles Clippers —A month to Scot Pollard's (Cavaliers) For more information on either attitude into the postseason, the ago, Elton Brand was hav- Johnny Damon-csquc shoulder- research study, please call Dr. Suns may be unbeatable. ing a very good season. But in lenglh-hair-plus-bcard combi- nation, NBA players seem to be Barbara Milrod at 212-746-5868. Guard: Kobe Bryant, Los January, the Duke alum could Angeles Lakers— As with Nash, be described as nothing short having fun with their locks. And Kobe has taken on an impres- of dominant. Brand upped his you know the old saying: as the sive leadership role this season. points average to 23.3 per game locks go, so the NBA goes. • 24JP0RTS | February 15,2007 I THE OBSERVER SPORTS fordhamobserver.com Rams fall flat against Dayton and Rhode Island

ByROBBEATSON Despite that, the Rams from STAFF WRITER Rhode Island proved to be too much for the Rams from the The Fordham University men's Bronx; with 27 seconds remaining basketball team won five straight to play* Will Daniels drove through Atlantic 10 games to close out'the the Fordham defense for the bas- month of January, and they did it ket and the foul. He converted the by playing smart, scrappy basket- three-point play to put the Rhody ball and utilizing their depth. But Rams up 45-44. Stout, who had as of late, the Rose Hill squad has . already been the last-minute hero faltered, playing uncharacteristi- in games against Richmond Uni- cally lackluster games against two versity and St. Joseph's University key A-10 opponents. A 57-45 road this season, put up one final shot, loss against the University of Day- which fell short, and Rhode Island ton on Feb. 7 featured a sub-par held onto the rebound to secure shooting performance and only the win. one Ram in double digits. The All season, Fordham has been defeat came close on the heels of spreading the ball around on of- a 45-44 loss to the University of fense, especially with Dunston Rhode Island on Feb. 3, in which consistently in foul trouble. But the one-man offensive force of on Saturday, it was Dunston pro- Bryant Dunston, FCRH '08, could viding all of the offense, scoring a not prevent a last minute loss in season-high 29 points to go along the battle for first place. with 13 rebounds and four blocks. The three-point shot has been a Dunston's most impressive statis- key weapon for the Rams all sea- tic, however, was the number one, son, but against Dayton, the shots as in the number of fouls he com- would not fall, as Fordham shot mitted through the first 39 minutes one for 15 from long distance. of the game. Unfortunately for Brenton Butler, FCRH '10, hit the Fordham, it was his second foul, only three-pointer at the close of on Daniels' three-point play, that the first half, cutting what could hurt the most. have been a much larger deficit to Fordham's three other top-scor- eight points. ers, Stout, Sebastian Greene, Marcus Stout, FCRH '08, who FCRH '08, and Butler, shot a scored a team-high 10 points, cut combined four for 24 from the the deficit to six points with a la- field and two for 12 from behind yup in the opening seconds of the the arc. second half, but that was as close "Brentori [Butler] was tentative, as Fordham would get for the Greene was tentative, I thought rest of the night. A Charles Little Stout really didn't look for a shot, dunk with seven minutes to play and I think that ended up costing stretched the Flyers' lead to 13, us at the end," said Fordham head and Dayton would not look back, coach, Dereck Whittenburg. "I holding on for a 12 point victory. think it goes to show that we need Fordham, who shot just 35 percent to improve as a basketball team. from the field, did not hold a lead We still haven.'t put it together. We beyond the 10 minute mark of the have bur defense together, we fi- first half. nally out-rebounded someone, but Unlike their performance in our offense wasn't there. We're Dayton, the Rams did a lot of trying to be complete." things right against the Univer- Fordham and Rhode Island sity of Rhode Island. They out- entered the game with identi- rebounded their opponent for the cal 6-2 Atlantic 10 records, good first time in eight games; they held for first place along with George a Rhode Island team that had been Washington University. The loss shooting 45 percent on the season ended the Rams' five-game win- to just 28 percent from the field; ning streak and was just the Rose underachieving Dunston turned in Hill squad's second loss at home. a career game; and Fordham al- Fordham's record now stands at Ftntum Unlmtfy Athletic Depstment lowed just 45 points. 13.-9 overall, 6-4 in A-10 play. • Chris Bethel grabs a rebound against Rhode Island.

TAKE THE POINTS Men's hoops lacking killer instinct

This is the And what did we get? A classic Bryan Dunston in the second half, minutes of playing time. His impact type of game choke job. Fordham's offensive sets remained is statistically proven and directly the program Former New York Jets head MEN'S BASKETBALL stagnant on the perimeter, resulting correlates to the team's wins and has clamored coach, Herm Edwards, once UPCOMING GAMES in poor percentage attempts (two losses. When the 6-5 forward plays for. sarcastically stressed, "You play to of 18 from beyond the arc). over 11 minutes in a game, the Cue the win the game." On Feb. 3, Ford- As the Rams have done so many Rams are 6-1. When he plays under lights... ham basketball proved they don't Feb. 18-HOME-12 p.m. times prior (Sacred Heart, Quin- 11 minutes, they possess a .500 re- Televised play to win; they play not to lose. Duquesne University nipiac, Fairfield, Richmond), they cord (7-7). If I were Bethel, I would Saturday And it starts with the coach. again failed to stick the dagger into seriously contemplate my future afternoon Just a week prior, Coach Whit- Fetx 24 -AWAY-2 p.m. their opponents. Yet this time, it with a program that doesn't seem to game. Not an tenburg recalled in the "Provi- University of Rhode Island ultimately cost them the victory. use me properly. empty seat to dence Journal" his lack of personal Toward the end of the first half, In Bethel's absence from the be found. A recognition among the Fordham . Feb. 28-AWAY-7 p.m. Chris Bethel emphatically blocked floor, captain Dominic Osei main- student sec- community: "I walked around St. Bonaventure University Rhode Island forward Terence tained his inadequate play, shooting tion reaching campus for three years, and no one Grier. Despite being called for the zero for four from the field and PETER decibels of noise knew who I was." A loss like this Mar. 3 - HOME - 1 p.m. foul, it brought Ihc entire crowd to' missing several defensive assign- never before will make you wish no one knew Temple University its feet. Much like how an impres- ments Ilia! ultimately led lo Rhode MARTIN heard at the Rose who you were again, Coach. sive dunk can be worth more than Island points and Ihe evenluiil lead Hill gymnasium. The Rams should have blown just two points as a result of its change. Riding a robust the doors open in the first half emotional value, Bethel's block While the elite of Ihe college 9-1 record at home. An opportu- against the University of Rhode meant more, than just a potential basketball world is setting sail for nity to extend the winning streak Island when they amassed a 19-12 change of possession; it was a March Madness, Fordhaui basket- to six, and most importantly, over- lead and had the crowd behind statement to the enlire Rhode Island ball is still trying lo find its iden- take first place in the Atlantic 10 Ihcm. Yet every time Fordham just 15 minutes in. (cam that if you conic into the paint tity game-in and game-out. While for the first time since the school's failed lo convert and push the lead For the majority of Ihc first half, strong, you're going to be denied. it's becoming alarmingly lale inception. further, Rhode Island would turn a superior Fordham squad out- Inexplicably, Whittenburg then in the season for an ascendance Decent ingredients for the big- over possession, practically asking scored Rhode Island in the paint, elected to sit Ihe player exciting (he into the postseason, a strong