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The week of October 13, 2008 www.bucks-news.com Volume: 44 Issue:3

RACE TO THE WHITE HOUSE ELECTION SPECIAL Who will pick up the pieces? INSIDE

Debatable Issues ELECTION SPECIAL PAGE 4 President George W. Bush is packing ing the past two terms. The war trillion. The Electoral in Iraq has since been defined as But not all of Bush's policies his bags, but what is he leaving part of the "Bush doctrine," regarding terrorism have been College which reserves the right to start unsuccessful. ELECTION SPECIAL PAGE 5 behind for the next president? a war if it is in the national inter- Since Sept.11, the U.S. has not est. suffered another terrorist attack Congress BY DAVID NONINI The current difficulties facing on its soil, which some attribute The Centurion America has launched invasions U.S. forces in Iraq stem from how to the creation of the Department ELECTION SPECIAL PAGE 6 into Afghanistan and Iraq result- the war was initially implement- of Homeland Security. George W. Bush could be the ing in a multi-trillion-dollar debt, ed. Tom Mazurek, a Bucks histo- Relations with other countries The VP’s most controversial, polarizing a crumbling economy and ry professor, said that until Iraq, have been strained over the last ELECTION SPECIAL PAGE 7 president ever to occupy the extreme partisanship by both all U.S. military actions in the eight years. After the Sept. 11 Oval Office, an assessment that is sides. With only four months left past three decades have followed attacks in New York, Voting shared in the Bucks Social in his term of office, and the the "Powell doctrine." This strat- Washington and Pennsylvania, Sciences Department. ELECTION SPECIAL PAGE 8 main focus on who his successor egy, created by Colin Powell in there was an outpouring of grief The most recent Gallup poll will be, the question now the 1980s in response to the han- and sympathy from countries A Modern placed the president's approval becomes: What will be the last- dling of the Vietnam War, speci- around the world. One of these rating at an all-time low of 27 ing impact of the Bush presiden- fied for a clearly defined war countries was Iran, which pub- Hypocrisy: Vote percent. He shares this honor cy? strategy and exit plan. licly mourned the 9/11 attacks, OP/ED PAGE 14 with only two other presidents: The Bush administration's for- The cost of the war has forced according to Bucks Professor Richard Nixon and Harry S. eign policy and handling of ter- the U.S. to borrow money from SPORTS Truman. rorism has been a main focus, if other countries. So far, the war During his presidency, not the focus, of the public dur- has cost the United States $1.3 Continued on page 5 Bucks Baseball and Equestrian SPORTS PAGE 16 Bucks government already in office WEATHER BY ERIC NOCITO Philadelphia. Contact Greater reached. That’s what I hoped to having fundraisers or looking for Columbus Day: Mostly Features Editor Philadelphia raised money for do. Be someone who could work new members, but the message sunny, with a high near 75. their hotline for those afflicted with my fellow students to make isn’t getting out. Then, clubs are Since the 2008-09 Student with depression. this school better. That’s what mystified no one sees their play Tuesday: Mostly sunny, with Government Association took Another major event that will we’re doing by hosting these or watches their game or attends a high near 78. office about a month ago, they take place at Bucks is charitable fundraisers and by their event.” Irwin added, “Of went straight to business and “International Celebration Day.” forming the Clubs and course, I can recommend them to Wednesday: Mostly sunny, started planning for Bucks. Sponsored by the Children’s Organizations Council,” said get in touch with the Centurion.” with a high near 79. Much of the student body is Cultural Center, “International Skudris. The SGA is encouraging the uninformed about what the Celebration Day” will showcase SGA Vice president Ravi Patel student body to voice their opin- Thursday: A chance of show- plans of the SGA are, and even, different heritages and enable said of the council, “This would ions so they better serve Bucks. ers. Mostly cloudy, with a in some cases, unaware that the students to become more aware allow students to become much In the case of the semi-ban on high near 71. Chance of pre- SGA exists. of their own cultural back- more aware of the things avail- smoking that took effect on Oct. cipitation is 30percent. “A lot of students don’t know grounds. able to them at Bucks.” 1, the SGA curbed the ban from about their student govern- “International Celebration The council would be made up being campus-wide. Friday: Mostly sunny, with a ment,” said Student Life Director Day” will take place on Sunday, of one representative from each Patel said that since the cam- high near 63. Matt Cipriano. “The SGA is try- Oct. 19, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. by club or organization at Bucks. pus is comprised of a plethora of ing to market to students, in the library area, cafeteria and The members would then meet smokers, a full ban at Bucks Friday Night: Mostly cloudy, order to get their attention and auditorium. and discuss plans of events for would have been unfair to many with a low around 42. become more visible.” Further information about one organization or joint events students. “Students have the SGA consists of an executive “International Celebration Day” sponsored by more than one right to smoke and no one Saturday: Partly sunny, with board of five members with John can be found at childrenscultur- club. should stop them.” a high near 57. Skudris leading as president. alcenter.org/id/. “This will allow the clubs and Student government is the This year, SGA is aiming to In the upcoming weeks, the organizations to come together means for the student body to Saturday Night: Partly address any concerns that stu- SGA hopes to find a solution to and provide more services for communicate on an official level cloudy, with a low around 40. dents have about Bucks, and the lack of communication the students of Bucks,” said to authority. hoping to offer events and pro- between Bucks’ clubs and organ- Cipriano. They represent every student Sunday: Mostly sunny, with grams that will appeal to a wide izations. Centurion Editor-in-Chief in the decisions they make for a high near 60. range of the student body. “I ran for president because I Laura Irwin said she looked for- Bucks. That is why the new SGA thought this school had immense ward to being a part of the coun- will be dedicated to the needs of WEATHER COURTESY OF THE One such event was a 5k run, NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE. held on Oct. 5 by Contact Greater potential that had yet to be cil. “Clubs and organizations are the students of Bucks. 2 News Monday, October 13, 2008 Student parking complaints continue BY JEN GOLDING When it comes to parking, to direct traffic. Centurion Staff “There seems to be a lack of In addition, vehicles responsibility and accounta- without parking per- Every year, students com- bility,” said Edward Steele, a mits are not ticketed plain about what they say is a 22-year-old political science for the first month of lack of parking at the major and member of student school. According to Newtown campus. government. the motor vehicle and Students complain that the On the Newtown campus, parking regulations on Office of Safety and Security there are five student parking the Bucks website, the issues far more parking per- lots. On a typical school day, violation for parking mits than the number of lot B tends to fill up the without a valid permit spaces available, often mak- fastest because of its conven- is $15. ing it difficult to find a spot in ient location across from As of Sept. 24, park- a reasonable amount of time. Gateway. Lot A fills next, ing enforcement has “Sometimes I’m late to class with D and E shortly after. been ticketing cars because I can’t find a parking “With five student lots, there without permits. spot,” said Natalie Graf, a 19- are always spaces,” said When the spring year-old nursing major. Lloyd. “In fact, lot C always semester begins, cars Often, Graf is forced to park has more than enough spaces. will not be ticketed in lot C, the furthest lot from People just don’t want to until Feb. 1. Penn where she has classes. have to walk.” The biggest problem THE CLOSEST SPACES FILL QUICKLY, AND STUDENTS DON’T WANT TO WALK. Chris Lloyd, director of As every Bucks student this year, according to PHOTO BY CHRIS JOHNSON security and safety, has heard comes to learn, parking issues Lloyd, is that two complaints about the lack of in the first few weeks of employee lots are This increased congestion dents were also minor, main- parking in all his years as school are the worst. “Often closed due to steam line con- could be the cause of the few ly involving cars backing out director. However, he main- students are hanging out on struction, and half of an accidents that have already of spaces into other cars. tains that parking should not campus longer than usual so employee lot is being used as occurred on the campus lots Some students choose not be an issue. “There is more they can buy books,” said a storage area for the con- this year. “In the most signifi- to pick sides in this ongoing [parking] than we need, we Lloyd. To help with the struction equipment. cant accident, a car struck battle. Sarah Watters, a 19- just can’t guarantee it’s going heavy congestion during this Because of this, some facul- several vehicles, but no year-old liberal arts major, to be convenient,” he said. time period, the Office of ty now park in the student injuries were reported,” said had only one thing to say: Yet, students disagree. Security and Safety attempts lots. Lloyd. The other few acci- “Teleporting is the way.” New York Times columnist wins Nobel Prize By The Associated Press "the party of stupid." Academy of Sciences praised Krugman introduced his duction cheaper, multiple Not one to tone down his Krugman for formulating a trade theory in 1979 in a 10- countries can build a product STOCKHOLM, Sweden— opinions, Krugman has com- new theory to answer ques- page article in the Journal of such as cars. Paul Krugman, the Princeton pared the current financial tions about free trade and International Economics. A nation like Sweden can University scholar, New crisis to the devastation of the said his theory had inspired It posited that because con- build its own car brands for York Times columnist and 1930s. an enormous field of sumers want a diversity of both export and sale at home, unabashed liberal, won the "We are now witnessing a research. products, and because while also importing cars Nobel prize in economics crisis that is as severe as the "He has thereby integrated economies of scale make pro- from other countries. Monday for his analysis of crisis that hit Asia in the 90's. the previously disparate how economies of scale can This crisis bears some research fields of internation- affect trade patterns and the resemblance to the Great al trade and economic geog- Centurion Publication Schedule location of economic activi- Depression," Krugman said. raphy," it said. The Centurion is published weekly on ty. But he was optimistic that a The award, known as the Perhaps better known as a global effort aimed at stem- Nobel Memorial Prize in Mondays. columnist than an economist ming the financial blood loss Economic Sciences, is the last Deadline for advertising is noon on the to the public at large, had taken root. of the six Nobel prizes Wednesday before publication. Krugman has also come out In a column Monday in the announced this year and is Publication dates for the fall 2008 semester are as forcefully against John New York Times, Krugman not one of the original McCain during the economic wrote that British Prime Nobels. follows: meltdown, saying the Minister Gordon Brown and Showing a sense of humor, (dates may be subject to change) Republican presidential can- Chancellor Alistair Darling Krugman's New York Times didate is "more frightening "defined the character of the blog had an entry early 10/21 11/11 now than he was a few worldwide rescue effort, with Monday that read "A funny weeks ago." other wealthy nations play- thing happened to me this 10/28 11/18 Krugman also has derided ing catch-up." morning...." with a link to the 11/4 12/9 the Republicans as becoming The Royal Swedish Nobel announcement.

Bucks County Community College’s Student Newspaper

To receive the Centurion’s Email Edition: Senior Staff Register at www.Bucks-News.com and a .PDF version of the newspaper Editor-in-Chief News, Mike Vesel will be delivered directly to your email box. Student Life Kevin Yorke Laura Irwin Interactive Media/ Web Chris Johnson Letter Policy Managing Editor Arts Jamie Melgoza Letters should be limited to 300 words. They will be edited for spelling and malicious or libelous Op/Ed Sara Crouse statements, and may be edited for space. Letters must be the original work of the writer and John Skudris Features Eric Nocito must be signed. For identification purposes, letters must include the writer’s full name, address, Advising Photography Kisha Lowenthal and telephone number, although the address and telephone numbers will not be published. Tony Rogers Editorial Staff Send letters to: Centurion Lisa Brass 275 Swamp Rd David Carter Newtown, PA 18940 Official Member Christian Pannapacker [email protected] Elizabeth Messina 2006-2007 www.bucks-news.com/Letters to the Editor Elle Creedon 215.968.8379 Monday, October 13, 2008 News 3 Students still smoke, despite ban

BY LAURA IRWIN Editor-in-Chief mail about the ban and Protest lights up outside Fireside with cigars according to a report last year With the new smoking ban in the Centurion, only 14 out BY CHRISTIAN PANNAPACKER in place, Bucks officials have of about 10,000 Bucks stu- Centurion Staff now decided where students dents had activated their can – and cannot – smoke. Bucks Gmail. Debbie Noble, On Oct. 1, day one of the According to the Bucks chief information technology smoke-free campus policy, administration, smoking is officer at Bucks, didn’t return about 15 students and Brian J. permitted in parking lots A, calls for comment about Weibley II, led by a 27-year- B, C, D, E, F and H, which are whether more students were old custodian at Bucks, beyond Linden Lane and using Bucks Gmail this year. protested the new policy by Employee Road and in pri- What or who is really going smoking cigars and cigarettes vate vehicles. to prevent smokers from outside the Fireside Lounge. Elizabeth Kulick, assistant lighting up? It was around 11:20 that dean of enrollment service, According to Kulick and morning when Weibley, who said students had been noti- Student Life Director Matt clocked out early to hold the fied about the ban’s status Cipriano, Bucks students, event, walked into Fireside through signs, pamphlets, staff and faculty should be Lounge and held up a bag of word of mouth and an e-mail wagging a finger at smokers five cigars. He then asked the BAN-PROTESTORS SMOKE CIGARS OUTSIDE FIRESIDE, AND SAY THEY WERE blast to the Bucks Gmail sys- and reporting them to Safety students there, “Who would AWAY FROM WALKING PATHS. tem. and Security or Student Life if like join me in ‘celebrating’ PHOTO BY CHRISTIAN PANNAPACKER But it remains unclear they continue to smoke or a the smoking ban?” exactly how the ban will be problem develops. Several students indicated Weibley said he deliberate- entrances and pathways did- enforced – or if it will be But Cipriano said that the their interest and followed ly chose a location that was n’t bother him. enforced at all. Some students ban is in a time of adjustment. Weibley lead. They each away from a doorway to Outside of Weibley protest, say they’ll keep smoking Smoking will ultimately be grabbed a folding chair from show his consideration for many students are defying where they want until some- suppressed as time goes on, the lounge and followed non-smokers. He also said he the smoking ban on their one stops them. and an immediate cessation Weibley outside. They set up wasn’t within range of a own. “Essentially speaking, I’m across campus is unrealistic, their chairs just to the side of walking path, but the patch Bucks student Casey going to do what I want to do he said. the walking path. of lawn they smoked at was Nimmo argued, “There’s no until I’m reprimanded. I’m Cipriano has been walking The impromptu protest within 5-feet of a heavily- time to smoke between class- not going to stop smoking on about campus whenever he lasted a half hour or so, start- trafficked path. All of the stu- es if we have to walk all the campus, but I think I’m being has time between obligations ing with five students and dents involved in protest way over to our car and respectful,” said Zach and meetings with fellow growing to 15 as friends agreed with his argument. back.” McConnell, 22, liberal arts Student Life staff Carol joined in. Weibley stated, “I don’t Being a campus custodian, major from Pipersville. Watson and Dave Collelo, Campus security did not think [people] should smoke Weibley had a strong view McConnell was smoking a informing students of the come by during the protest. near the doorways or on the about the removal of ashtrays clove cigarette outside Rollins ban. “It was actually nice As of now, campus security walking paths. I disagree from the campus. He argued when he was asked why he because I got to meet a ton of enforces the smoking ban by with that.” that they failed to hinder stu- was smoking on campus after new students,” said Cipriano. informing a smoker of the Kyle Ciminera, a 19-year- dents from smoking and thus the ban. He responded, Samantha Monter, 18, edu- new policy and asking him or old non-smoker with mild caused more problems than it “There’s no other place to cation major from Bensalem, her to stop. asthma, complained about solved. Weibley said some go.” He mentioned he had no was smoking with Stroud. Justin Mathews, safety and having to deal with walking students resorted to throwing idea where the designated “[Cipriano] was the only per- security officer, admitted through a cloud of second- their butts in the trash, and areas were. son I’ve seen enforcing the having doubts about the pol- hand smoke when leaving he already had to deal with a Other students interviewed ban. He just asked me nicely icy, and said, “I don’t think class. However, he thought trashcan fire that day. by the Centurion said they to put my cigarette out, so I it’s very effective.” that smoking away from had no idea there were new did.” prohibitions. Kulick said she believes “I didn’t know there was a there will be a two-week win- ban,” said Chris Stewart, a dow for students to become 21-year-old education major aware of the new policy and of Langhorne while smoking afterward changes will be on the benches between the made to the policy if needed. Fireside Lounge and the “My expectation is the major- Library. When told there ity will comply [with the were signs across campus ban],” said Kulick. grounds and in doors and Cipriano believes that as windows, Stewart said, time passes there will be “Signs? Where?” fewer incidents of smoking, Mike Christodoulou, 20- but he will address regular hired. The penalties year-old business administra- violators. for breaking the tion major from Richboro He also mentioned he has code of conduct said, “I don’t see any signs.” seen the same people lighting vary. Cipriano said In the days between the up and that they are more it could be a fine, a Sept. 11 approval and Oct. 1 likely to have action taken warning, probation enactment of the designated against them. “[The ban] or something more smoking areas on campus, needs to be constantly rein- “creative.” administration met the forced,” said Cipriano. “All “If someone con- requirements the Bucks faculty and staff should be tinues to challenge Board of trustees outlined. enforcing this.” the ban, I can have (LEFT) EMPLOYEES ARE STILL SMOKING. (CENTER) STUDENTS ON THE BENCHES IN THE QUAD LIGHT UP. (TOP RIGHT) MATT CIPRIANO HANDS OUT FLYERS TO STUDENTS WHO ARE SEEN These requirements were Monter said that she always them write a paper SMOKING. (BOTTOM RIGHT) SAFETY AND SECURITY OFFICERS IGNORE THE SMOKERS THEY that notification was to be in sees faculty smoking on cam- on smoking cessa- SEE ON CAMPUS. place to alert the Bucks com- pus. “Usually, they sit down tion or pick up PHOTOS BY LAURA IRWIN munity of the ban, and the with us to smoke, security butts,” he said. designated smoking areas officers too.” Safety and Security, with depend on how far they venient and they weren’t were to be—designated. Then the question arises: If Newtown Township Police, push.” going to smoke there. Smoker Ryan Stroud, 19- you are smoking on campus, have been on campus to Six students were inter- Stewart said, “Unless they year-old multimedia major are there consequences? address a student outside the viewed specifically about fine me, I don’t care.” from Bensalem, said the ban As of now, Cipriano says Fireside Lounge who contin- whether they knew who was As Bucks continues to light had “sloppy organization” no. ued to smoke and was dis- enforcing the ban and what up, and faculty and safety but he had seen the signs that The ban is written up in the turbing the Bucks communi- the consequences were if and security walk by smok- a ban was in effect. He lit a Student Code of Conduct. If ty. caught smoking. None said ers, who knows when it will cigarette on the benches out- you are a student, or staff or Kulick said, “There will they were aware of the desig- be butts out, but administra- side of the Fireside Lounge. faculty member at Bucks, you always be somebody that nated areas or enforcers. All tion claims to have sufficient- All these smokers said agree to the terms in the code attempts to challenge a new interviewees said that going ly alerted the campus to the nothing about getting an e- when you are matriculated or policy. [Punishment] will to the parking lots was incon- changes. 4 Political News and Views Monday, October 13, 2008 Race to the White House: The issues

ABORTION AND HEALTH CARE

By John Skudris “undecided” on whether or ing voted against partial- The other key issue is health versal health insurance pro- Managing Editor not life begins at conception birth abortion in congress. care. Of course, much has gram. and has always remained been made about the financial McCain’s health care plan is Abortion has long been a pro-choice. He is against any bailout and market crash of much different. He plans to controversial topic in bill that would ban partial- This the past couple of weeks. use competition between America. Ever since Roe v. birth abortion, but he But the economy goes health insurance companies Wade was decided in 1973, believes that women election has been much farther than the to improve the quality and the country has clashed over can make the right stamped as a mandate last two weeks. It amount of coverage. He also whether a woman should choice when it also involves plans to reform the tax code have the right to choose. This comes to the between “change” and health care and to offer more choices beyond election is the most crucial issue. the fact that 47 employer-based insurance one in decades when it comes McCain, on “experience.” But what many million coverage. He will give a to abortion because of the the other Americans still $2,500 tax credit to individu- likelihood of at least one hand, has young voters don’t know is the don’t have it. als to offset the cost of health Supreme Court Justice retir- always been Obama’s coverage and he will encour- ing in the next four years. pro-life. He issues that will be affecting their health care age the use of Health Savings Obama is staunchly pro- has voted yes lives. In the coming weeks, The plan has two Accounts for families. The choice. He was given a on almost every major goals - to difference between the 100 percent rat- anti-abor- Centurion will dissect the key make two plans is that ing by tion bill health Obama wants NARAL brought issues, showing where John insur- to let the fed- Pro-Choice to ance eral govern- America, Congress McCain and Barack compa- ment help signifying and has a 0 nies work with the a com- percent voting Obama stand. for people and burden of pletely record with businesses, not health care pro-choice NARAL. He also just insurance while voting voted no on a bill Some may say that abortion and drug compa- McCain record. In that would have pro- is not a key issue at this point nies, and to reduce wants to March, he vided $100 million to in time. However, with many costs and save a typi- leave it up to voted against a bill reduce teen pregnancy by liberal justices ready to retire, cal American family up to the market. He that would have prohibited education and contraceptives. it is believed that only one $2,500. His plan would believes that allowing insur- minors from crossing state He stated in January 2000 that more conservative judge require insurance companies ance companies to compete lines to get an abortion. This he supports overturning Roe could be enough to repeal to cover pre-existing condi- will mean lower prices and coincides with his stance v. Wade, leaving it up to the Roe v. Wade. Should this his- tions so all Americans, better coverage, while Obama against a bill that would have states to decide the legality of toric court decision be regardless of income, can believes that insurance com- notified parents of minors abortion. Where Obama said repealed, the states would have health coverage at a fair panies have done enough to that get out-of-state abor- he is undecided, McCain is have to vote on whether or cost. It will promote public hurt Americans and that they tions. He has stated that he is staunchly the opposite, hav- not to keep abortion legal. health, but will not be a uni- cannot be relied upon.

EDITORIAL It’s the home stretch and SGA President John Skudris says remember the senate

With such a huge presiden- Democrats is that not one of races are in Alaska, tial election coming up in a those 12 seats is in play; Minnesota, Mississippi and few weeks, it is no surprise meaning that the Democratic North Carolina. In Sarah that most people have forgot- candidates should easily be Palin’s home state, longtime ten that there are elections in able to win. Of the incumbent Republican Sen. the legislative branch as well. Republicans’ 23 seats, 11 seats Ted Stevens is slightly trail- U.S. Senate and House of are likely to be in play. ing Democratic Anchorage Representatives elections Therefore, the Democrats Mayor Mark Begich. This race occur every two years. could boost their senate stock is close because of Stevens’ Senators have six-year terms, all the way past 60 seats. This recent indictment for not dis- while congressmen have 2- is important because if one closing his finances correctly. year terms. This year, we party has 60-plus seats in the In Minnesota, incumbent have 35 senate seats at stake; senate then they can pass any Republican Norm Coleman is 23 of those seats belong to the bill that they want without staving off a late surge by Republicans while just 12 opposition from the other Democratic challenger Al belong to Democrats. party. Franken. Coleman won the Even better news for the Some of the key U.S. Senate seat in 2002 by a small margin when his opponent was killed in a plane crash. Franken is a former comedian and not, it’s an extreme tossup. towards their 60 senate seat Saturday Night Live cast Finally, we come down to goal. member. Recent polling North Carolina. This was a As of right now, it appears shows a very close race. senate race that was not sup- that the Democrats are likely In Mississippi, Republican posed to be close. However, to have 59 seats in the senate Roger Wicker is seeking to Barack Obama’s success in when this election is over. win his first full term after the state along with the grow- Along with the states men- being appointed by Governor ing issues with the economy tioned already, races in Haley Barbour to replace the has helped the Democrats Virginia, Maine, New retiring Trent Lott. Wicker here. Republican Sen. Hampshire, Oregon, New will be facing off against Elizabeth Dole was expected Mexico and Colorado are all Democratic former Gov. to cruise to reelection. extremely close and should Ronnie Musgrove. This is However, Democratic state be kept an eye on. normally considered a very Sen. Kay Hagan has closed Remember, it’s not all about safe Republican state, but the gap considerably, and the presidential race, and the with the challenger already even has a lead in some polls. real change could be made having won a statewide elec- A victory here could easily through the elections of the tion and with Wicker having propel the Democrats legislative branch. Monday, October 13, 2008 Political News and Views 5

ELECTION SPECIAL Playing the numbers for an election

BY JOHN SKUDRIS the popular vote in their and Obama’s Managing Editor state. Each state has a prede- candidacy allows termined number of electors many typically Just weeks remain in the based on population. Each Republican race for the White House. A state’s electoral vote number states, or red Virginia year-and-a-half of campaign- is the same as the number of states, to be in ing comes down to one final U.S. Representatives and U.S. play. States such S. Carolina sprint for Democratic candi- Senators from the state. For as Virginia, date Barack Obama and example, Pennsylvania has 19 North Carolina, Conneticut Republican candidate John Representatives and two Colorado and McCain. Senators. Therefore, there are Indiana are all Misouri For most of the year, the 21 electoral votes in considered swing New Mexico major news networks talked Pennsylvania. That’s why states this year about national polls and who “swing states” are the states despite the fact Nevada was leading among all the with a high population. that they’ve voted registered voters in the coun- Alaska is large, but has few predominantly Alaska try. However, as any stout residents compared to a Republican the political activist knows, we much smaller, geographically past 40 years. Vermont don’t elect presidents via a speaking, state like New This brings us Deleware national popular vote. York. These states, which are to the state of the Instead, it’s the Electoral high in population and there- race. In order to College that decides the vic- fore electoral votes, can win the election, tor. swing the election one way or a candidate must The Electoral College is a another if it’s a close call. receive 270 elec- This graph describes how the winner of the group of electors who cast This election is unique toral votes. As of their votes for the winner of because the state of the nation press time, popular vote can lose the election. Obama has 264 This map depicts the Electoral electoral votes from states This leaves his campaign Obama, on the other hand, that are either safe or lean with 174 electoral votes. has to just win one of them. College votes in the 2004 election. Democratic. These include all After all of the safe and lean The most recent polling in the states John Kerry won in states are counted, that leaves these states shows slight 2004 along with the Bush the swing states—or battle- leads for Obama in every sin- states of New Mexico and ground states. According to gle one. However, most of Iowa. CNN, these states include these leads are too close to be Barring any cataclysmic Ohio, Virginia, North called significant. gaffe by the Obama cam- Carolina, Missouri, Colorado, On Nov. 4, millions of paign, these states are likely Nevada and Florida. These Americans will go to the polls to go for the Democrats. This seven states contain 100 elec- knowing that their vote will means that they would need toral votes that will be the key help to determine what direc- just six electoral votes in to the presidency. tion our country moves in. order to win the election. Unfortunately for McCain, Will McCain be able to pull As for McCain, he’s likely to he currently has his back up out the shocking victory after capture most of the South and against the wall. Due to his having his campaign sputter Upper Midwest. However, inability to make inroads in in recent weeks? Or will capturing any of the Kerry any state that went Obama become the first ever states from 2004 fell by the Democratic in 2004, he is African-American President? wayside when his campaign forced to win every single No matter what happens, announced they were pulling one of these seven states in history will be made in the out of Michigan last week. order to win the election. coming weeks. Bush is leaving office, and his legacy continued from page 1 caused these companies to lose The argument can be made been such a divisive politician. Bunkin said that Cheney billions of dollars. that during seven years of the "He was voted for as a moder- pushed Bush to be tougher, and Mitch Bunkin. These collapses triggered the Bush administration, the gross ate. Instead, he became rigidly to go for his goals regardless of In addition, Iran and Syria largest, single day point drop in national prod- conservative, the partisan differences, where offered to sit down with the Bush the New York Stock Exchange, uct (GNP) and even more so Wolf described him as being sur- administration and talk about exceeding the Crash of 1929, unemployment than his rounded by rigid ideologues that any issues that the U.S. had con- which was a contributing factor indexes were father. There helped shape his policies very cerns with. The Bush administra- to the Great Depression. very positive. It's going to take a was no will- conservatively. tion declined. The argument could be made The point can ingness to "It's going to take a while to In recent weeks, the economy that Bush could have done more also be made while to recover from work with recover from what's happened in has taken the war's place as the to prevent the economic decline that the eco- what's happened in the moderates and the last eight years," said Martin dominant focus of media and throughout his administration. nomic decline last eight years. There's Democrats," Sutton, social and behavioral sci- public attention. Congress Being a conservative, Bush fol- didn't occur said Tony ence professor. "There's no easy passed a $700-billion bailout of lows the tradition of small gov- until 2006, no easy solution for Wolf, profes- solution for anyone." Wall Street in response to the col- ernment, with little government when the anyone. sor of sociolo- However, this negative view of lapse of holding companies regulation of business. Democrats took gy. Bush may not last as the years Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, However, the blame for the fal- control of both This parti- and decades go on. insurance company AIG and tering economy cannot be com- houses of the -Professor sanship is seen "Never judge a sitting presi- financial firm Lehman Brothers. pletely put on Bush. "You can't Congress. Martin Sutton in some of the dent. You should judge them These were in turn the result of pin the economy on one person," Before that, appointments later after the effects become the recent housing boom, where Bunkin said. the inflation that he has apparent," said Dirk Dunlap, his- people would take out sub-prime Albert Rieger Jr., economics and stock made, most tory professor. mortgages on houses that they professor, said that up until indexes were on notably to the Contemporary judgments can couldn't afford. recently, the economy had been the positive side. Supreme Court. be unreliable due to the emotion- Unable to make the payments, growing stronger. He said that The Bush years have seen some Some of the responsibility for al nature of whoever is giving the banks would foreclose and our economy has had recessions of the most intense partisanship Bush's more aggressive and par- the assessment. As time passes, take the house while the loans before, the most recent around in recent memory. tisan approach belongs to Vice the opinions of a president can couldn't be collected. This 2001. However, Bush has not always President Dick Cheney. change. 6 Political News and Views Monday, October 13, 2008 ELECTION SPECIAL: CONGRESS

PATRICK MURPHY TOM MANION BY CHRISTIAN BY JEN GOLDING PANNAPACKER Centurion Staff Centurion Staff

Patrick Murphy, a Tom Manion is the Democrat from Republican candidate for Pennsylvania’s 8th the House of Congressional District, is Representatives, running up for reelection as U.S. against incumbent Patrick congressman against Murphy for Pennsylvania’s Republican Tom Manion. 8th Congressional District Born Oct. 19, 1973 in seat. Northeast Philadelphia, At age 54, Manion is a Murphy started out his col- retired 30-year Marine and lege career at Bucks. He has been a successful busi- then went on to King’s ness executive for 18 years. College in Wilkes-Barre, With two careers under where he joined the Army his belt, Manion says he is ROTC program. After running for Congress to be graduating with the rank of a citizen legislator, not to Second Lieutenant, become a career politician. Murphy attended Widener Rather, Manion was University School of Law. inspired to run for After law school, Murphy Congress by the sacrifice of served as a Special his only son, Travis, who Assistant U.S. Attorney in died fighting in Iraq in New York, a prosecutor in 2007. North Carolina, and an assistant professor of constitutional law at West Point Manion wants to end the war in Iraq because he does not want other parents Military Academy. Murphy is the only Congressman who is a veteran of the to go through what he and his wife have, but he does not want to end the war Iraq War. He volunteered to serve overseas following the terrorist attacks of before the U.S. military is able to stabilize the region. Sept.11, 2001. He was first sent to Bosnia in 2002, and then to Baghdad in 2003 He argues that regardless of whether we should have initiated the war or not, as a paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division. Murphy earned the Bronze ending the war prematurely will threaten the security of Iraq and the U.S. and Star for service and his unit earned the Presidential Unit Citation. the stability of the Middle Eastern region. In the election of 2006, Murphy won his congressional seat in a surprising Manion also supports having the Iraqis pay for their share of the cost of the victory by un-seating Republican incumbent Mike Fitzpatrick with a margin of war. only .6 percent. This election has attracted national attention because of both Manion believes solving the energy crisis should be the country’s highest pri- candidates’ ties to the war in Iraq. Murphy is a veteran of the war and a critic ority. of George Bush’s war strategy, while Tom Manion, whose son was killed in He has his own three-part plan to deal with the crisis, which includes devel- Iraq last April, is a supporter of the war strategy. oping alternative energy sources, providing incentives for energy conservation In an interview on NPR in January 2007, Murphy said the Iraq War is “the and expanding domestic oil drilling and exploration. defining issue of our generation. And I believe, as someone who has served Manion said the government should create incentives to encourage scientists there, as someone who has walked the streets of Baghdad as a captain in the and engineers to develop new alternative-energy technologies. 82nd Airborne Division, that … it's time to turn it over to the Iraqis. It's time to Manion also believes in low taxes and cutting spending to reduce the size of start bringing our men and women home.” government. Last August, Murphy announced his endorsement of Barack Obama for pres- He supports making the 2001 and 2003 tax cuts permanent, as well as a mora- ident. In a quote on Obama’s website, Murphy said, “When I returned from torium on earmarks to eliminate pork-barrel spending. Baghdad, I saw that we needed to go in a new direction—both here at home Other conventional Republican positions Manion supports include protect- and in Iraq. I am inspired by Senator Obama's call to service and believe he is ing the nation’s borders and reforming immigration, as well as giving tax cred- best suited to bring about the changes we need in our country.” its to help individuals afford their own health insurance. On Oct. 3, Murphy voted for the economic rescue package. In a press release Manion claims Murphy has voted in favor of raising taxes and for wasteful from his website, Murphy said, “With Bucks County families unable to pay earmark spending. their bills and businesses unable to make payroll, we could not afford to play Of Murphy’s popularity among college students, Manion said, “If they ‘Russian Roulette’ with the American economy or the future of hard-working like higher taxes…if they like bigger government, if they agree that we families in hopes that everything will be just fine.” should have a single payer health care system…if they don’t want to drill Locally, Murphy secured thousands of dollars for flood relief in Yardley. for increasing our internal energy, they should vote for him. But they Additionally, he passed an amendment that stopped waste company J.P. Rail shouldn’t vote for him because he’s popular. It should be about the issues. from building a waste transfer station in Bensalem. ” According to Murphy’s campaign website, Murphy08.com, Murphy will be To learn more about Manion and his stances on the issues, you can visit facing off against Manion in two upcoming debates, Oct. 15 and Oct. 29. his website at votemanion.com. Biden campaigns at home, attacks McCain

By The Associated Press the waning days of the cam- paign."The administration the wealthiest Americans His voice rising, the paign.If Obama and Biden keeps plowing an Uzi's worth should show their patriotism Delaware senator shouted: "It SCRANTON, Pa. — win Pennsylvania, Sen. of bullets into the McCain- by paying more in taxes. is unpatriotic to take $100 bil- Democratic vice presidential Clinton predicted Sunday, Palin ticket every time they The Obama campaign has lion offshore and not pay candidate Joe Biden on "there's no way they can lose have something else go said it plans to hike taxes on your taxes! That is unpatriot- Sunday accused the McCain the White House." wrong," Clinton told an people earning more than ic! So I don't need a lecture on campaign of trying to distract Biden on Sunday cast evening rally of several hun- $250,000, but would cut taxes patriotism! I've had it to Americans from their eco- McCain as out of touch with dred people gathered at for those making less. here!" The McCain campaign nomic woes by launching the concerns of everyday Roanoke's downtown Market Republicans have criticized pointed out that Biden and "unbecoming personal Americans who are worried Square. "It's good politics for Biden over the remark. both Clinton had raised ques- attacks" at Barack Obama. about their jobs and the us." Clinton praised the Accusing businesses and tions about Obama during Appearing at a boisterous declining values of their Democratic candidate's plan wealthy individuals of using the Democratic primaries. rally near his childhood homes. He said McCain does- for financial recovery and his "offshore tax loopholes" to "As voters in northeast home, Biden said John n't know how to get the proposals for health care hide $100 billion a year in Pennsylvania continue to raise McCain's campaign is desper- nation's economy back on reform, an issue that he said income, Biden told the crowd serious questions about Barack ate to change the subject from track and would simply con- nobody has taken on "since Sunday, "It is unpatriotic Obama's judgment and charac- the financial crisis that has tinue the policies of President Hillary and I got our brains when you earn your money ter, it is befitting that they will wiped out many Americans' Bush. At an Obama rally in beat out trying to fix." in the United States of now hear from the three lead- college and retirement sav- Roanoke, Va., later Sunday, In Pennsylvania, Biden America and you hide it off- ing voices who sounded the ings. He said McCain has Bill Clinton said Bush's defended a comment he shore to avoid taxes, making alarm on the risk of an Obama resorted to making "ugly response to the financial crisis made in an ABC interview sure YOU have to make up presidency," said McCain inferences" about Obama in is helping Obama's cam- last month in which he said the difference." spokesman Paul Lindsay. Monday, October 13, 2008 Political News and Views 7

ELECTION SPECIAL Bucks students weigh in on Biden BY MIKE VESEL ing points, the veteran sena- ing the fifth-youngest senator News Editor tor from Delaware, Joe Biden. in history. How much does the student Biden, with more than 35 With the presidential elec- body at Bucks even know years in the Senate, is also the tion heating about the Pennsylvania longest-serving senator in the up, all the native, if anything at all? history of Delaware, and the big names When a large group of stu- sixth-longest of current sena- are on the dents were asked if they tors. table, but knew anything about Biden, In the course of those 35 how much eyes glazed over and jaws years in office, Biden has run does the stu- turned slack, as a slurry of for president twice, once in dent body at “uh’s” and “um’s” came 1988 and again in 2008, before Bucks know about the senior spilling out in confusion. being picked up as the vice senator from Delaware? For those who do not know presidential nominee for the Barack Obama, John who Biden is, he is a native of Democratic party this year. McCain, Sarah Palin - all of Pennsylvania, born in Despite his respected pedi- these names are well estab- Scranton on Nov. 20, 1942 to gree of time and commitment lished in the American lexi- Joseph Robinette Biden Sr. within the U.S. government, con. and Eugenia Finnegan, and very few people at Bucks, It might be because of a he was the first of four chil- during one of the most heated Even with the more politi- topic of gay marriage. He was message of hope and change dren in the family. elections in recent history, cally active students, there condescending; he just smiled that has spurred on a younger Biden graduated from the seem to have even the seems to be an air of mystery and looked down at [Palin.]” generation of voters. For University of Delaware in vaguest knowledge of Biden. to the senior senator from So what would help Biden McCain it could be the coura- 1965, where he double- “Palin and him came out of Delaware. move out from behind the geous action of staying majored in history and politi- nowhere,” said Kevin “Honestly? The debate was veil of obscurity at Bucks? behind in a Vietnamese POW cal science. Shelmire, a 20-year-old liber- the first time I ever saw him,” “Maybe he does have great camp, or in the case of Palin, a He received his law degree al arts major from said Anna Hollenbach, a 20- ideas, but we don’t get to see hilarious collection of from the Syracuse University Southampton. “I’m not sure year-old pre-nursing major them. We need to see more “Saturday Night Live” skits. College of Law, and at the age what it will be like to have from Sellersville. “He was so about him, see more of his But one name is seemingly of 30, was elected a U.S. either of them as vice presi- inconsistent at the debates. family like we do with Palin,” absent from the general talk- Senator for Delaware, becom- dent.” He completely 180-ed on the said Hollenbach. Voters wonder if Palin is ready for office BY ERIC NOCITO of female students felt she of five male Bucks intervie- pended her campaign in early vice president while still rais- Features Editor wouldn’t fit the role properly. wees said that Palin wouldn’t June, Palin has become the ing her children. Others said Four out of five female be able to lead the U.S. as sec- most dominating woman in a strong woman could defi- With less than a month to go Bucks respondents inter- ond-in-line. the race to the White House. nitely handle both tasks, until the presi- viewed said they were happy “Yes, I believe she is ready Her increased recognition because she has already dential elec- to see a female as vice presi- to assume the role as vice around the country has been proven herself as governor of tion, many dent, but not this candidate. president,” said Kevin Grass, met with many mixed feel- Alaska. students at “I don’t think she is ready a 23-year-old liberal arts ings. Many Bucks students, Bucks are to be vice president,” said major. “I trust Obama and Some feel that Palin might though, either have never unsure of Diana Karasanyi, an 18-year- McCain to make their choices be taking too much on as sec- heard of Palin or don’t care if Gov. Sarah old biology major. “She needs for their running mate. Palin ond to the president, while she is elected or not. Palin’s readiness people to tell her what to say and Biden are good sub others believe she would be “I really don’t care if she to potentially become the next and she is too general when points in the process, but the able to handle many things at becomes vice president,” said vice president. answering questions. And vice presidential position once. Casandra Waite, a 21-year- Palin would be the first most importantly, she doesn’t shouldn’t be a deciding fac- Some criticized the judg- old liberal arts major. “It female vice president in histo- have enough experience.” tor.” ment of Palin, a mother of doesn’t interest me and I ry, but a surprising number Surprisingly, only two out Since Hillary Clinton sus- five, for wanting to become don’t care about that stuff.” A heated debate: Palin and Biden sound off BY KENNETH MCCAFFREY becoming an energy-inde- current foreign policy with focused their attacks more on dent died in office. Biden Centurion Staff pendent nation by domestic Pakistan and Iran was “an the presidential candidates, responded that he would drilling. “Yes, Senator abject failure.” Biden’s domi- McCain and Obama, respec- carry out Obama’s policies to The recent political debate McCain does support nant skill is his knowledge tively, rather than on each the letter, saying that he between Gov. Sarah Palin and [domestic drilling]. The chant and understanding of foreign other. would make sure that health Sen. Joe Biden showed the is ‘drill, baby, drill.’ And policy. He was able to speak Biden said that Obama was insurance would become true colors of this election’s that's what we hear all across more freely than Palin, who well aware of the impending affordable and he would vice presidential candidates. this country in our rallies regularly read off notes to fill economic crisis, and McCain push America toward an The debate began with a because people are so hungry in the blanks. was oblivious to the issues independence from foreign brief introduction from both for those domestic sources of On the wars in Iraq and because he claimed the econ- energy source while creating parties. What ensued was a energy to be tapped into,” Afghanistan, Biden agreed omy had a strong foundation. 5 million jobs in the process. plethora of questions relating said Palin. with Gen. Dave McKiernan’s Biden also criticized Palin claimed that she would mostly to the current state of Global warming was anoth- analysis that the current McCain’s current plans for do her best to follow the American economy. er issue discussed. Biden counter-insurgency plan in Iraq, while emphasizing that McCain’s plans and concen- Palin seemed more confi- argued that it is a man-made Iraq wouldn’t work in Obama would concentrate on trate on getting rid of the cor- dent than previous inter- problem. Palin’s response Afghanistan. “Barack Obama getting our troops out of ruption that is plaguing Wall views indicated, claiming was that she didn’t want to was saying we need more there. Street. outright that it was the fault discuss the causes so much as troops [in Afghanistan]. Palin responded by saying The possibility of either of of the “predator lenders” that the effects. Again, we spend in three that McCain knows what he these vice presidential candi- led to the current economic Foreign policy was another weeks on combat missions in is doing and can win the war. dates taking power within the crisis, and using her down- subject of debate. Both Biden Iraq more than we spent in She also accused Obama of White House is clear. home appeal in asking Biden and Palin called Pakistan and the entire time we have been voting to cut funding to the Therefore, it is imperative if she could refer to him as Iran legitimate threats, and in Afghanistan. That will troops in Iraq. that the American people are “Joe.” recognized Israel as change in a Barack Obama Another big issue was the well-informed on each vice Palin concentrated mostly America’s most reliable ally. administration,” said Biden. question of what each candi- president’s attitudes and on the issue of energy, focus- Biden said that America’s Both Biden and Palin date would do if the presi- viewpoints on the issues. ing on the importance of 8 Political News and Views Monday, October 13, 2008

ELECTION SPECIAL Profs say it’s important to vote

BY ASHLEY PIZZI Centurion Staff Most students interviewed at Bucks aren’t interested in voting

Amid all the campaign ads BY ELLE CREEDON choosing not to vote for their two presidential candidates of either party or candidate, and pundits’ talk it can be dif- Centurion Staff lack of interest or their dislike were named this year. and did not care either way, ficult to focus on what’s real- for the candidates involved. “I like Obama a little better which was particularly sur- ly important about this elec- Recently, students were Chris Sheeder, a 21-year- than McCain, whose vice prising. tion - the issues. approached by volunteers old accounting major, is not president [Palin] is a total Although there were many So what are these issues? from moveon.org asking if excited about the election [idiot],” said Cook. students walking the halls According to Bucks profes- they are registered to vote. because he does not like “Politics are not really my with Obama buttons and sors, issues are anything from Others passed out buttons either of the presidential can- thing. They just don’t inter- McCain stickers covering the economy to Iraq. and stickers to show their didates. est me,” said Adams their binders or bags, many “Anyone approaching support for a specific party. “I do not think either candi- Schwartz, a 21-year-old edu- insist they do not care about retirement… anyone with It seems that many people date will help improve the cation major. the election. money in a 401K needs to be in the area are involved with current economic situation,” However, a small group of The lack of interest may be concerned about the effect and excited about the upcom- said Sheeder, who is not students said they were excit- the reason that they do not that the economy is having on ing election, but the question planning to vote this year. ed about the election. like either candidate, or sim- the working class,” said remains: Are Bucks students Students not participating Many said they are voting ply do not register for fear Professor Robert Welsh, of just as excited? in the voting process were a to make a change. They are they will be called in for jury the math, science and tech- Students hold various opin- frequent find throughout embracing a change that they duty. nology department. ions on the upcoming elec- campus. said is needed for the country Either way the students “Terrorism is a major prob- tion. Sean Cook, 20, an actuarial under the economic turmoil. here at Bucks for the most lem as well,” he added. “We Surprisingly, many stu- science major, also said he The consensus of people part did not show much are reasonably well-protected dents talked about their abili- was not registered to vote, interviewed at Bucks said enthusiasm toward this now, but that doesn’t mean ty to vote, but in fact are nor did he want to after the they were, in fact, not in favor year’s presidential election. that we can let our guard down.” and is considered to be an up- eral judges do you Asking Bucks students Dr. Doug Rosentrater of to-date, unbiased resource. want? The federal about the most important the social and behavior sci- Bunkin offered a simple judge appointments issues resulted in a mixed ence department said, “There formula for addressing elec- are life-long. That response. are obviously three issues tion confusion. is longer than the “The economy is the most that concerned citizens need “First realize that in every president himself important issue facing the to examine in this upcoming election there is going to be even has in office.” incumbent president. It looks election. The first is the econ- one candidate who is in sup- These judges will be pretty bad right now. And omy. The second is the war port of power and money responsible for the war,” said 20-year-old lib- in the Middle East. And the being regulated at a state- interpreting the eral arts major Kevin third is the fact that the level and a second who wants Constitution during Tamasitis. national healthcare system is the federal government’s our lifetime. Dan Riesenberger, 26, approaching bankruptcy.” power to remain at status quo Completing his works in intelligence for the Rosentrater urged, or increase.” “top-five issues” U.S. Army in Arizona. “The “Everybody should look at For anyone who is new to Professor Mitch Bunkin list, Bunkin said the Iraq debacle is significant the background and previous politics, the Democratic party environment and because it’s driving a lot of actions of their chosen candi- is in favor of federal govern- most-important political foreign policy tie. other things. I would also dates before making a deci- ment regulation and spend- issues. “Clean air and water regu- look at how the candidates sion.” ing while the Republican “When people lose lives for lations have dramatically are looking at the economic Dr. Mitch Bunkin teaches party is in favor of awarding controversial reasons, it’s dropped in the past eight crisis we are in and what their political science and history. power to individual states. impossible for me to believe years, and we need more take on foreign policy is, in He recommends that stu- Bunkin asserted that once a that the war isn’t the no. 1 businesslike communications general.” dents with questions about voter decides if they want tax issue in this upcoming elec- with the world,” he said. Steve Crow, 28, said, “I the validity of statistics visit money regulated at the feder- tion,” said Bunkin. The eco- “We can’t survive without would say that the crumbling factcheck.org. The website is al or state level, it is easier to nomic disaster comes in at a close and meaningful rela- financial system is the most published by the School of address the important elec- close second on his list. tionships with other coun- important issue that the Communications at the toral issues. Professor Next, Bunkin posed the tries—whether we admire future president has to deal University of Pennsylvania Bunkin listed his top five question, “What type of fed- them or not.” with.” Independent Barr, the third candidate

BY SARA MCBRIDE tionally. Barr also served as indicates the climate chang- Centurion Staff an official member of the U.S. ing is mankind’s fault alone. delegation at several major Barr said that it has become With the 2008 presidential United Nations conferences. such a push with the other elections rapidly approach- In an interview with Glenn two parties because public ing, John McCain and Barack Beck, Barr got the chance to policy is generally based on Obama are on everyone’s answer the questions that notions that sound good, and lips, but what about a third McCain and Obama were solving global warming option? Bob Barr, the being asked every day. sounds good to the general Libertarian nominee, repre- Beck asked Barr what his population. sented the 7th district of stand is on oil and if he were When asked about the Georgia in the House of president how would it Patriot Act, Barr stated that Representatives from 1995 change. Barr responded, he cannot narrow down one until 2003. “What we need to do is we single problem with it but Barr served as member of need to free up businesses, that he can sum up some of the House Judiciary commit- free up enterprise so they can the faults. tee, committee on Financial get out there and start tap- “We didn't need more we now have in the Patriot And that's the problem that Services, and was vice chair- ping into the huge off-shore laws, more invasive laws. I Act enshrined now in U.S. we see in a number of the man of the Government reserves that we know are have no problem at all with law, the power of the federal provisions in the Patriot Reform committee. He now there.” the government taking legiti- government to initiate an Act.” practices law in a consulting Barr said his stance on glob- mate evidence that somebody investigation and gain pri- Barr is a strong candidate firm. al warming was, “Mankind is committing, or might com- vate records on any person in and a relief from the typical Barr is a speaker for the All has done a lot of good in the mit, or is about to commit a this country without any evi- Republican or Democratic American Speakers Bureau. world as well as bad,” but terrorist act and investigating dence whatsoever that they parties in this election, and a He has spoken and traveled that he hasn’t seen any legiti- them to the full extent possi- have done anything wrong, new voice during this heated across America and interna- mate scientific evidence that ble. But when you have, as that to me is going too far. election season. Monday, October 13, 2008 To Do 9

OCTOBER Bucks events and listings In the county, in the city

Mens Soccer vs. Reading (home) at 3 p.m. 13 Terror Behind the Walls: Haunted House at Eastern State Penitentiary How to Be Successful at BCCC from 5:30 to 6:15 p.m. through November 2 Golf PCAA Tournament Round 1 starts 9 a.m. NLCS Game 4 Phillies @ Dodgers 8:22 p.m.

Golf PCAA Tournament Round 2 starts at 9 a.m. 14 ALCS Game 4 Rays @ Red Sox 8:07 p.m. Navigating Through College 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Flyers @ Pittsburgh 7:30 p.m.

Upper Bucks Day Transfer Fair 10 a.m. to 1p.m. 15 NLCS Game 5 Phillies @ Dodgers 8:22 p.m.

General Job Fair: Newtown from 12: to 2 p.m. 16 ALCS Game 5 Rays @ Red Sox 8:07 p.m. Managing Time Effectively from 12 to 1 p.m. Flyers @ Colorado 9 p.m.

Deadline for teacher initiated withdrawals 17 Alkaline Trio/Thrice/Rise Against/Gaslight Anthem at the Electric Factory Fall 2008 Mid-Semester grades due by noon show opens at 7:30 NLCS Game 6 Dodgers @ Phillies 8:22 p.m. (if necessary) Men’s Soccer vs. Delaware (away) starts at 1p.m. 18 NLCS Game 7 Dodgers @ Phillies 8:22 p.m. (if necessary) Women’s Volleyball PCAA Championship (East) ALCS Game 6 Red Sox @ Rays 4:37 p.m. (if necessary) Flyers @ San Jose 10:30 p.m. Study for Classes and watch Football 19 ALCS Game 7 Red Sox @ Rays 8:07 p.m. (if necessary)

Men’s Soccer vs. Harrisburg (home) starts at 3 p.m. 20 NOFX at the Trocodero starts at 7 p.m.

Newtown Pre-Fair Session from 5 to 6 p.m. 21 NBA Pre-Season Cleveland at Philadelphia 7 p.m.

CROSSWORD CLUES Across groups of atoms 22- Pleasing 1- Scenery chewers 47- Seine contents 25- Island in the East China 5- Dish of raw vegetables 48- Male sheep Sea 10- 9th letter of the Hebrew 49- Mass of varied parts 26- Malfunction alphabet 56- Look at lustfully 27- Able to 14- Dash 58- Pueblo material 28- Run of bird-song 15- Component of organic 59- Wander 29- Stimpy's pal fertilizer 60- Hammer end 30- New York city 16- Elephant ear plant 61- Birthmark 31- One on track? 17- Title bestowed upon 62- Over 32- Mild oath the wife of a raja 63- Editor's mark 33- Packs tight 18- Darken 64- Head lock 37- Imitating 19- Increase in height or 65- Gives a bad review; 38- "Xanadu" band number 39- ___ de mer 20- Suicidal tendency Down 41- Dutch name of The 23- "Respect for Acting" 1- Cattle group Hague author Hagen 2- Winglike parts 42- Cougar 24- Fail to tell the truth 3- "Give that ____ cigar!" 44- Governor 25- Overall configuration 4- Bad mood 45- Volcano in Antarctica 33- Mud hut 5- Abruptly 46- Fondle 34- Lacoste of tennis 6- Places of contest 49- Away from the wind 35- Label 7- Scottish boys 50- River in central Europe 36- Env. notation 8- Busy 51- Relocate UDOKU 37- River that flows 9- Half-moon shape 52- Snare S through Paris 10- Three lines of verse 53- New Rochelle college 39- Flaky mineral 11- Prepare a book or film 54- Cooking appliance 9 6 5 8 40- East Lansing sch. for release 55- Information 41- Small mountain 12- NFL scores 56- Roman goddess of 42- Walked back and forth 13- Weeding implement plenty 6 2 7 43- More complex than 21- Fling 57- Understand

"CROSSWORD PUZZLES PROVIDED BY BESTCROSSWORDS.COM (HTTP://WWW.BESTCROSSWORDS.COM). USED WITH PERMISSION." 4 2 5 3 2 CRYPTOGRAM 2 3 1 5 6 PAPLMNXOBQ O XRAP UPRLBPC RDSWN 7 8 5 UOAP FRB DP ZWTTPC WY OB NXLPP 2 4 ESLCZ: ON QSPZ SB. 3 7 2 -RBSBMTSWZ 5 8 6 3 10 Student Life Monday, October 13, 2008 Transfer Services aids in planning

BY DANIELLE EMERY by. In order to complete the One of the main resources Centurion Staff transfer, students must fill offered to Bucks students out the proper application hoping to transfer is the Students are taking their and register for the courses Pennsylvania Transfer and education to the next level by that they planned out. Articulation Center (PA transferring from Bucks to Thinking about transferring TRAC.) This program was set various universities, and from school to school can up to increase the number of Bucks transfer programs are seem like a headache. credits that students are able making it easier than ever. However, Barbara Ford, to transfer. This program is The Transfer Services director of transfer services, used by 32 different commu- Center, located in downstairs said it is generally a very sim- nity colleges, universities and Rollins, is the place all trans- ple process. even a few private schools. fer students need to visit. What could make it compli- Some of the most popular Students can come here to cated is, for example, if a stu- include Bloomsburg make appointments with dent attends Bucks for a year University, East Stroudsburg their advisors and discuss the and wants to take a college- University, Kutztown best possible plan in order to level math course that will University and Shippensburg facilitate transferring. transfer to Kutztown. To do University. The Transfer Center doesn’t so they must first place into The PA TRAC website, transfer credits; rather it the course. A student is not patrac.org, provides step-by- helps students plan courses able to take the desired step instruction on how to to more efficiently. Because course until the prerequisite transfer for students who are some credits might not trans- is completed. worried about the transfer- fer, the center guides students As far as finding schools ring process. It also shows to take courses that do trans- that will accept Bucks credits, how to avoid taking classes fer, or would assist in com- INSIDE STUDENT SERVICES, STUDENTS CAN SIT DOWN WITH AN ADVISOR TO PLAN A TRANSFGER there are plenty. Some state that will not count toward PHOTO BY KISHA LOWENTHAL pleting a Bucks degree. schools, such as West Chester your degree. You can search The resources at the University and Cabrini, even for equivalencies throughout Transfer Center are simply offer the course equivalencies a wide variety of schools To contact the Transfer visit the Student Services guides for the students to go on their websites. across the country here too. Center call (215) 968-8031 or office. Bucks celebrates the right to read

BY VINNY LOMBARDO of American Publishers, the than 1,000 texts have been Top 10 Banned or Challenged Books in 2007, as reported Centurion Staff American Society of challenged in every state and by the American Library Association Journalists and Authors and in hundreds of communities. “Catcher in the Rye,” “To the National Association of People challenge the content 1. "And Tango Makes Three," by Justin Richardson/Peter Kill a Mockingbird,” “I Know College Stores, “Banned of books for many reasons, Parnell Why the Caged Bird Sings.” Books Week” was launched such as for sexual or violent Reasons: Anti-Ethnic, sexism, homosexuality, anti-family, These are all titles that have in 1982 as a response to a content. religious viewpoint, unsuited to age group sculpted American spike in challenges and bans “It's Perfectly Normal,” by 2. "The Chocolate War," by Robert Cormier Literature, and all are titles of books in schools, libraries Robie Harris is only one of Reasons: Sexually explicit, offensive language, violence banned in many schools and and stores. Across the coun- them. A sex education book 3. "Olive's Ocean," by Kevin Henkes libraries across the country, try during this week, hun- for children ages 10 and up, Reasons: Sexually explicit, offensive language “Banned Books Week,” a dreds of libraries and book- “It’s Perfectly Normal” uses 4. "The Golden Compass," by Philip Pullman national celebration about the stores draw attention to the watercolor and pencil-art Reasons: Religious viewpoint freedom to read, was held problem of censorship by drawings to teach children 5. "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn," by Mark Twain Sept. 29– Oct. 4 at Bucks. mounting displays and host- about their changing bodies Reasons: Racism Sponsored by the American ing events where the texts of as they move through puber- 6. "The Color Purple," by Alice Walker Library Association, the challenged books are read. ty. Reasons: Homosexuality, sexually explicit, offensive lan American Booksellers Since “Banned Books However, the book has guage Foundation for Free Week” was launched, more raised the eyebrows of more 7. "TTYL," by Lauren Myracle Expression, the Association than a few blushing parents, Reasons: Sexually explicit, offensive language, unsuited to including Laurie Taylor. A age group spokesperson for the group 8. "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings," by Maya Angelou Parents Protecting the Minds Reasons: Sexually explicit of Children, Taylor is at the 9. "It's Perfectly Normal," by Robie Harris forefront of a move to banish Reasons: Sex education, sexually explicit “It’s Perfectly Normal,” and 10. "The Perks of Being A Wallflower," by Stephen dozens of other books from Chbosky her local schools. Though she Reasons: Homosexuality, sexually explicit, offensive lan could not be reached for com- guage, unsuited to age group ment, PPMC’s website, TeachClean.com, said, “Our store's distributor. Nasta said of expression." Gallagher said objective is to enforce our that generally, Bucks stu- it is wrong for anyone to ever parental rights to choose for dents just don’t know that suppress another's voice. our children.” some books are banned in "That's what our country was Danny Petitti, 30, a business school districts around the founded on." administration major, agrees U.S. "We're in an academic For Steve Montney of with Taylor, and said, setting, and we do this just to Bensalem, the issue is a slip- "Children shouldn't be read- make people aware that these pery slope. He was accompa- ing [certain] books, because it commonly read books have nied by his 9-year-old son might influence them to do been banned." while buying books at things that are not appropri- The Bookstore isn't the only Border’s Express last week. ate." store in our area recognizing When asked for his thoughts For the second consecutive “Banned Books Week.” At about banning books, year, Textbook Manager Jim Border's Express in Montney said, he hadn’t Nasta of the Newtown cam- Neshaminy Mall, there is a given it much thought, but pus Bookstore prepared the similar display of censored added, “As long as I keep an display for “Banned Books books. eye on [what my son is read- Week.” Store Manager Erin ing] I think people should The books and promotional JIM NASTA POSES IN THE BOOKSTORE BY THE “BANNED BOOKS” DISPLAY Gallagher said, "As book- have the ability to read what posters are sent in by the PHOTO BY VINNY LOMBARDO sellers, we believe in freedom they want to read.” Monday, October 13, 2008 Student Life 11 Breast Cancer awareness Rebate possible

BY ELLE CREEDON Centurion Staff 203 from 11 By The Associated Press a.m-3 p.m. The said previously he favors $25 The Women’s Center con- event is free and WASHINGTON— After billion to help states meet tinues to offer numerous open to all. “I consulting with Barack their own needs, another $25 activities and benefits for the am really excit- Obama, Democratic leaders billion for roads, bridges and Bucks and local communities. ed about this are likely to call Congress other infrastructure, and $65 Every month the Women’s event,” said back to work after the elec- billion for tax rebates paid for Center honors experiences Kaye. tion in hopes of passing legis- by a windfall profits tax on and accomplishments by This event, lation that would include oil. women. along with the extended jobless benefits, Speaking in Ohio on Friday, The center, along with memorial wall money for food stamps and the Illinois Democrat also Programming Coordinator will wrap up possibly a tax rebate, officials said, "we should extend Natalie Kaye, hosts events to Breast Cancer said Saturday. expiring unemployment ben- involve all genders to Awareness The bill's total cost could efits to those Americans acknowledge these accom- month, with reach $150 billion, these offi- who've lost their jobs and plishments. many other NATALIE KAYE HANDS OUT BREAST CANCER RIBBONS PHOTO BY KISHA LOWENTHAL cials said. can't find new ones." Every October is National exciting activi- The officials stressed that The House passed a $61 bil- Breast Cancer Awareness ties to come. In no final decisions have been lion economic stimulus bill month. The center will be March, The modern and ancient, as well made. They spoke on condi- before lawmakers adjourned supporting those who have, Women’s Center will be pre- as student performances. tion of anonymity, saying for the elections, but it was or have had, breast cancer. senting “Eyewitness to Each speaker will be filmed they did not want to pre- largely symbolic since Senate “We are inviting students, History.” as an archive for the college. empt a formal announce- Republicans had already faculty and staff to complete “I am so excited about Kaye came up with this idea ment. House Democrats have thwarted efforts to pass a a memorial card honoring ‘Eyewitness to History,’” said after seeing a documentary announced plans for an eco- companion measure. loved ones lost to cancer,” Kaye. “People who lived entitled “Standing on my nomic forum on Monday "to It called for up to 13 addi- said Kaye. Each certificate through these experiences Sister’s Shoulders.” help Congress develop an tional weeks of jobless bene- will be placed on a memorial share their experiences, and “People are dying,” said economic recovery plan that fits in states with the highest wall on all three campuses. you remember them.” Kaye, “but we don’t want focuses on creating jobs and unemployment, at a cost of $6 On Thursday, Oct. 16, the Guests will be speaking their stories to die with strengthening our economy." billion. Another $14.7 billion Women’s Center, in partner- about different events them.” Kaye thinks it is Democrats said Obama's was ticketed to help states ship with the Practical throughout history such as important not only for the campaign has been involved cover Medicaid costs. Nursing Department, will be the Holocaust, World War II college, but for our growing in discussions on a possible Enrollment in the federal- presenting “Breast Cancer and the anti-war movement. youth that these experiences stimulus package. state health care program for Awareness Day.” This con- In addition, there will be a be shared so that we all know The party's presidential the poor and disabled often sists of several doctors dis- musical program entitled where we came from, as a candidate, running ahead in rises with unemployment. cussing the latest develop- “Women in Music: Someone result of where we are today. the polls, has outlined his As a result, Congress ments in breast cancer Will Remember Us,” held The Women’s Center is fill- own proposals for stimulat- adjourned without providing research, screening and treat- Wednesday, March 4 in the ing the school calendar, con- ing the economy. additional benefits for the ment. The event will take Library Auditorium. This stantly looking to involve the Democrats are increasingly unemployed as increasing place in the Allied Health will include a woman who student body in all types of confident of capturing the numbers of people are losing Building in rooms 202 and plays 25 instruments, both activities. Anyone interested White House and increasing their jobs. in attending an their majorities in the House Congress enacted an earlier event may stop by and Senate on Nov. 4. stimulus legislation with the Women’s House Speaker Nancy unusual speed last winter. Center located Pelosi told reporters in It provided tax rebate within the Student Denver last Wednesday a checks of $600 to individuals Life Information $150 billion stimulus package and $1,200 to couples and Center in Rollins is necessary and she may call included tax breaks to busi- for more informa- the House back into session nesses investing in new tion. after the election. Obama has plants and equipment.

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Phone: 609-896-5036       ( E-mail: [email protected] Web: rider.edu/admissions 1   2           3       %&0450%6&   7 ( ( 12 Interactive Media Monday, October 13, 2008 Build your own lifeform with Spore BY CHRISTOPHER JOHNSON it’s broad in that one can cre- “Spore” is the colorful design And if you get bored, you can while very broad in size and Interactive Media Editor ate anything they want. elements. It’s all so bright even skip a phase. scale, the game’s elements of The player can make a one- and intriguing that anyone As soon as the creation creation aren’t as deep as It doesn’t matter if it’s eyed flying lizard or an eight- would want to see what stage is reached, elements can they could be. “Roller Coaster Tycoon” or limbed dinosaur with three everything looks like. be added. There are only so many “Diner Dash.” At some point, mouths, but in order to get to Because of the fact that The creature discovers a tail options for creatures. everyone has played a strate- that, the player must get there are so many color to help it swim or a horn to But since the game can be gic game on the computer. through the first stages of life. options and skin styles for the help it attack and defend. played online, EA is bound to They can be long, boring and “Spore” starts the player creatures, it’s almost impossi- Like all games when some- release a patch and an expan- almost as tedious as balanc- out as a single-celled organ- ble to make the same creature thing is this intuitive, there sion to help with these prob- ing a checkbook or watching ism that must avoid predato- twice. are bound to be problems lems. grass grow. ry microbes and eat smaller Another part about the with the game. Overall, “Spore” is one of What if, instead of building microbes in order to evolve. game that’s so fantastic is the A main problem is that the the most interesting games of premade buildings and using However, before this phase phases the player goes first parts of the game aren’t 2008. Despite some minor premade characters, you can begin, the player must through. As previously stat- very fun and engaging as problems, the game itself is made your own species? decide whether to be a carni- ed, its starts out as a cell, and they could be. fun and immersive. How about building your vore or an herbivore. then evolves into a creature, a Drifting around as a cell, The player may spend own lifeform and nursing it From this point on, it’s all tribal society, a civilization, eating until it evolves, and hours mixing and matching through the various stages of about building that microbe and then a space civilization. avoiding cells bigger than parts in order to get the crea- evolution? up to a creature and evolving The best part, that’s so dif- you isn’t captivating. ture they want. “Spore” uses an intuitive its society into a space civi- ferent from any other game It should take only 20 min- Its creative gameplay design and an impressive lization. like this, is there is no time utes to complete this stage, makes it a must-have for any- scale with simple controls to There are so many elements limit for how long someone which then thankfully one. It’s simple enough for a make a fun and charming involved in this game that it’s can spend in each phase. changes into the creature novice to pick up, but interac- game. While “Spore” itself hard to keep track of them all. If you like hanging around stage. tive enough to make any isn’t psychologically deep, One of the best things about as a tribal society, you can. Another problem is that strategy fan play for hours. Here’s a list of major DVDs and New arcade gets little use Blu-ray Discs coming out in BY CHRISTOPHER JOHNSON October... Interactive Media Editor Films: The renovations have • “Get Smart” moved office and department • “Hellboy II: The Golden Army” hither and yon, but the new • “Kung Fu Panda” lounge in upstairs Rollins • “WALL-E” doesn’t seem to be the hang- • “Hancock” out it was intended to be. • “Fred Claus” The lounge is filled with • “Meet Dave” chairs and tables and several • “Star Wars: the Clone Wars” arcade machines. These machines range from the “Terminator 3” pinball TV on DVD: machine to the “Big Buck • “John Adams” Hunter” arcade game. • “Heroes: Season 2” Why aren’t students play- • “Dexter: Season 2” ing them? • “30 Rock: Season 2” “They need to replace the • “The Office: Season 4” broken cabinets with Pac- • “The Simpson: the Eleventh Season” Man, Battletoads or • “The Sopranos: The Complete Series” Asteroids,” said Kyle • “Scrubs: The Complete Seventh Season” Ciminera, a 19-year-old liber- al arts major.

Some people think the STUDENTS HANG OUT IN THE ARCADE LOUNGE, BUT RARELY PLAY THE ARCADES games are out-of-date and PHOTO BY KISHA LOWENTHAL ignore them. When people Here’s a list of some cool are playing they seem to be websites to visit... drawn to “Street Fighter vs. dents ignored the games com- Another problem might be X-Men” and “Big Buck pletely and played the more just that the arcade is new • pandora.com Safari.” current games. and students aren’t used to it The best free internet radio out there. Listen to “They should halve a few of Jesse Speidel, a 22-year-old being there yet. Many stu- only what you want to listen to, get suggestions the current prices; more peo- humanities major from dents just seem to walk right for other bands that fit your genre. Awesome. ple will play if the prices Levittown said, “I haven’t past it. Some students going were lower,” said Ciminera. even played the games up past use the doorway down • nintendo8.com The least-expensive game is there and even I know they the hall as a shortcut to get to Need your “Duck Hunt” fix? Play classic “World Class Bowling” and need to have better games.” class or the cafeteria. Nintendo titles without downloading anything. “Die Hard Arcade.” Bright lights and fast play is The previous lounge area “Big Buck Safari” is $1 per the big pull of “X-Men vs. was used by a lot of students • calnewport.com/blog/ game and the player goes on Street Fighter” and “Big Buck for a quiet relaxation area and Stealth studying. Described as getting a 4.0 with several “hunting trips.” It Safari.” The bland and faded they still migrate to that area 1.0 hours of work. costs an additional $1 to con- cabinets of the bowling and thinking the same. tinue play. “Die Hard” games do not Since the arcade machines • thepiratebay.org “Dropping the prices would draw students in. have appeared, students have Don’t know what a bit torrent downloader is? draw more people in, espe- Replacements for the older disappeared looking for a No worries, just visit the site and see what cially since the lower the games would be preferable to new area in which to to study movies, shows and music you can download. price the more inclined [stu- the students. If they were quietly. dents] to play multiple replaced with retro games “A different location would • stumbleupon.com times,” said Steve Young, 19, like “Asteroids” or even have been better, everyone Where do all the random websites go? Well, a computer information sci- “Donkey Kong” several stu- just walks on by in order to here. User reccomendations highlight their best ence major. dent stated they would prob- get to the cafeteria or go out- sites and the website catagorizes their best web- Perhaps with these changes ably go up and spend the side,” said Mardilyn sites under heads from sports to science. the new arcade will get more money. “They’re awful McClellan, 19, a psychology student traffic to go up and games up there and they major from Levittown. That • wiretapped.net play. don’t work half the time,” seems to be a major theme This site is an archive of computer security Even when both the broken stated Brian Weibley, 27, a among those who know that information you can download. machines were working, stu- member of the custodial staff. the arcade is even there. Monday, October 13, 2008 Arts 13 A book worth sinking your teeth in

BY JANINE HIPPLE AND She thinks Edward and his The conflict begins when LISA BRASS family are different, and she another group of nomadic Centurion Staff soon discovers exactly how vampires migrate into town. different they are. Turns out, These vampires are full of The novel “Twilight” by the Cullens are a family of human bloodlust and when Stephenie Meyer, released in vampires. their “tracker” leader takes a 2005, is a no.1 New York Relax, they’re the vampire shine to Bella, a cat-and- Times bestseller. The idea for version of vegans, only sup- mouse chase to kill Bella the book popped into house- pressing their thirst for blood ensues. wife Meyer’s head in a with wild animals. This brief synopsis still may dream, and she outlined the Bella develops a romantic not explain why “Twilight” is million-dollar idea while relationship with Edward, such a cult hit. Edward and waiting for her kids at swim much as readers pray fever- Bella sound like Mary-Sues, practice. ishly that she will. What has perfect characters who don’t But what’s all the fuss been driving hordes of have a fault to their name. about? teenage-to-adult readers is Thankfully, they do have Seventeen-year-old Isabella the passionate romance more depth than what first Swan, who goes by Bella, between Bella and Edward. meets the eye, and this first trades her life in Phoenix, The romantic lure of a seduc- book out of the four in the Ariz., to move in with her tive vampire is a distant sec- series is merely the introduc- father in the small town of ond to the true-love soul- tion. Forks, Washington. mate relationship unfolding There aren’t any sex scenes. On her first day of school, page-by-page. Meyer is a Mormon, and any shy, klutzy Bella is the center But with all relationships, sex in the fourth book is taste- of attention as “the new girl.” challenges ensue, though fully danced around, but the However, the only boy who probably not the ones you romance is deep and keeps catches her attention is would think of first. the reader thirsty for more. In Edward Cullen, her biology Edward has the unique secrets. monds. reading, you will understand partner, who does not give ability to hear others’ And Meyer has obliterated Bella’s father is a police offi- why readers ages 9-to-90, her the time of day. In fact, he thoughts, but mysteriously, the conventional myths of cer and although unsure of suddenly wants to marry seems to dislike her, as he he can’t hear Bella’s thoughts. vampire lure. The first date himself in a fatherly role, he Edward. ignores her and keeps an on- The vampires are prone to between Edward and Bella is is protective. Edward’s fami- If you like the book, be sure edge distance from her. sci-fi abilities like premoni- in a clear meadow where it ly is a coven of vampires that to check out the movie, which She notices him because he tions and physical manipula- becomes apparent why their father-figure, Carlisle, comes out Nov. 21. And a stands out with his pale and tion, but Bella is immune. Edward and his family live in has taken in. Not all of them fifth book is in production, a beautiful features, not to This draws in Edward’s inter- the rainy, overcast Pacific are thrilled that Edward has re-creation of “Twilight” in mention piercing eyes and a est more, as he is prone to Northwest—a vampire’s skin told Bella the truth about Edward’s perspective, called cut body. knowing anyone’s deepest sparkles in sunlight like dia- their situation. “Midnight Sun.” Hef’s bunnies are back for another look

BY BRITTANY KENVIN just like the rest of us. mansion and kissing her circulation. Caught on cam- Centurion Staff And the show has a large bunny days goodbye. era by the paparazzi, female fan-base. The main E! News and Madison’s Madison promises that there E!’s hit show “The Girls draw for most females seems Myspace page, which read a will be a sixth season with the Next Door” kicked off its to be the fact that these gor- mood status of “lonely,” said girls, but that her relationship brand new season on Sunday, geous blonde bombshells are she does have a place of her with Hefner is definitely Oct.5, presenting the first of frighteningly normal and own, “…but is too busy at the over. 20 new episodes. down to Earth. moment to completely move So, what is a die-hard “Girls The reality show follows Even the beloved Hef, age out of the mansion.” Next Door” fan to do in the the lives of 82-year-old difference and polygamy It also stated that, no matter face of such disheartening Playboy founder and mega aside, seems to be as simple what happens, the pair will change? One can only watch mogul, Hugh Hefner, and his as millionaires come these always be “best friends.” and hope for the best as three girlfriends: Holly days. The split seemed to be Madison, Hef, and the rest of Madison, 28, Bridget While fans prepare to fill inevitable after Hefner told the girls move on with their Marquardt, 35, and Kendra their Sunday nights with Hef Madison six months ago that lives. Meanwhile, we view- Wilkinson, 23. Although the and the girls for the coming the two would “never marry ers enjoy the fifth season for show’s basis might seem a bit episodes of the new season, a ville. or have children.” what it is and look to the unorthodox to some, watch it rumor has been confirmed: Madison, Hef’s main girl A TMZ video of the blonde future for a damn good spin- once and you will be hooked Hef and Madison are splits- since 01, is moving out of the bombshell has also been in off series. Are viewers in for another dreamy season?

BY BRITTANY KENVIN “Grey’s Anatomy” fizzles out dering if the show would Everything just seemed to fall (Sandra Oh) seems to have Centurion Staff of its fast-paced and intense ever be resurrected back to right back into the groove found herself a new love storylines? the glory days of the early again. interest, which would be her The fifth season of ABC’s It’s disappointing, yet hon- seasons. The relationship between first romantic pursuit since “Grey’s Anatomy” debuted est, to say that after the sec- So, viewers watched with a Grey and the ever-so-studly being left at the altar by ex- on Thursday, Sept. 25. For ond season, Grey’s has start- hopeful attitude and a nostal- “Dr. McDreamy” was sweetly character Preston the show’s enthusiasts, the ed to wind things down, gic air, as once again the awkward, just as in show’s Burke(Isaiah Washington.) promise of a brand-new sea- especially with last season’s doors of Seattle Grace past. Things between Lexie Needless to say, the pre- son filled with more delicious epic downers like George Hospital opened for all of the Grey (Chyler Leigh) and miere of “Grey’s Anatomy’s” gossip, crazy surgeries and O’Malley (T.R. Knight) hav- drama and wonderfully fasci- roommate George O’Malley fifth season was a much- the unbelievably gorgeous ing to repeat his internship, nating medical procedures seem to be heating up. needed uplifting success. cast is like a dream come true. Miranda Bailey’s (Chandra that have kept us tuning in The newly ignited romance Maybe all of those die-hard Millions of eager viewers Wilson) marital problems, the week after week, but dread- between two of the women of fans will finally get what they across the nation tuned in to never-ending-saga of ing the fact that there just Seattle Grace, Callie Tores have been waiting for - a see how this increasingly Meredith Grey (Ellen may be no more fresh story- (Sara Ramirez) and Erica return of the show they ini- remarkable show would Pompeo) and Derek lines left to pursue. Hahn (Brooke Smith) appears tially fell in love with. That progress, but one question Shepherd (Patrick Dempsey), In a surprising turn of to be progressing quite inter- said, will the rest of the sea- was in the back of every and a countless number of events, the show seemed to estingly as well. son follow suit? It will be viewer’s mind: will this be others. All of these storylines pull through with a spectacu- Also, in a surprise turn of interesting to see how this the year that our beloved seemed to leave viewers won- lar two-hour season opener. events, Christina Yang one plays out. 14 Op/Ed Monday, October 13, 2008 Good and bad A Modern Hypocrisy Op/Ed Editor Sara Crouse gives her approval or criticism A weekly column by Centurion Editor-in-Chief Laura Irwin Good. Bad.

Smoking ban being put into effect Portable classrooms being the safe Say it with your Oct. 1, to have Bucks become a clean- haven for migrating stink bugs who air community. are seeking warmth. vote...or shut up

Representatives on campus to help Those who are disregarding the students to register in time for the Nov. smoking ban and proceed to light up 4 presidential election. anywhere on campus. I’m getting so reading Bucks students’ quotes this issue. I’m Unemployment rates skyrocketing seeing a repeating pattern emerge: apathy. The undeniable return of fall, as the “I don’t care about politics,” or “I don’t get what’s going evenings become more brisk and crisp around the country during the month on,” and my favorite, “I don’t like any candidate so I’m not and the sun is setting a bit earlier. of September. going to vote.” Yeah, that’s really sticking it to the man. Holidays are just around the corner. All the talk about nuclear weapons Let’s start with the first comment, “I don’t care about poli- that countries in the Middle East poss- tics.” I bet you care about whether or not you can have an abor- The Philadelphia Phillies. es, which has been a confusing and tion, or if you can receive financial aid. I’m willing to bet you frightening topic of the first presiden- get super excited over receiving a stimulus package and care if Campus ascetics, as Tyler Park tial debate, and vice presidential the state bans smoking everywhere. debate. Hate deforestation? Don’t like the healthcare system? Tired foliage changes from summer greens to of Wall Street lining their pockets as your grandmother or par- fall oranges, yellows and reds. ents lose thousands of hard-earned retirement dollars? The season bringing on people’s These, dear peers, are examples of political issues. Smart cars. allergies. If you eat organic then care that McCain and Palin want to drill offshore. If you think that the healthcare system is fine the Editor’s Note: Do to the intended nature of the following way it is, vote Republican. “Letter to the Editor,” the Centurion has refrained from altering If you think that taxing the millionaires instead of the mid- Letters any part of the letter, including content, syntax, spelling, punc- dle-class is smart, vote Democrat. If you support pulling out tuation or capitalization, so that the author’s purpose is clear and our troops, Obama is your man. To unobstructed. Want to build a wall between us and Mexico, McCain will ship the bricks. Laura-- The Basically, find one issue you care about, something you Let me begin by saying that after reading your columns, it comes already have an opinion on, and match your view to a candi- Editor as no surprise at all that almost every sentence (if in fact it IS dates view. Then vote for them. a sentence) in the paper is structured incorrectly. Please, do us Wow, that makes sense and seems easy to do. all a favor and take a Comp class or six. Secondly, I wonder if But Laura, how do I know what a candidate believes in? either you or John Skudris has any idea that a story is supposed to be objective as opposed Watch the debates, read a newspaper, visit their website or to SUBjective. I have a sneaking suspicion that this probably comes as news to both of you, look around you. You can’t miss the candidates’ verbal arrows unfortunately. I will not take the time to point out to you the numerous prejudices in the col- sailing through the air, whispering what they believe in, what umn profiling Joe Biden and Sarah Palin, but i will say that it is blatantly obvious solely from they promise to do, what the other guy did. the way the biographical information is presented who John will be voting for come November “I don’t get what’s going on.” (which is in my opinion yet another example of his many shortcomings). If you cannot man- I cannot spit out facts and statistics and bios like some peo- age to control your staff, or just don't have time in between complaining about a concert and ple can, but I do know the current standings in the polls and I rambling on incoherently about the nonexistant connection between brain function and Rascal know what main platforms each candidate is campaigning for. Flatts, at least do your readers the courtesy of doing a little rewriting. Trust me, Rascal Flatts I haven’t had television in almost three years and I know the will wait. basics. Sincerely, Seriously, you can’t escape hearing about the candidates and Nicole Atler about Republicans and Democrats if you wanted to, so not P.S. I'm willing to bet a lot that this letter to the editor will not be printed, at least not in the knowing anything means you live in a cave or you’re okay paper. That's actually a relief to me, as I'm sure nothing would be as I originally intended with coming across like you live in a cave. when you finished "editing" it. You should know, however, that the people I associate with-- You should be embarrassed stuttering “um’s” and “uh’s” otherwise known as EDUCATED people--share my views. You may want to consider that when someone asks you who you’re going to vote for. My jun- before you print the next edition of the dismal "Centurion". ior high school-aged brother knows who he wants to vote for, Dear Laura, so does my former roommate’s 3-year-old. The Monday, Sept. 22 Centurion newspaper article, “Designated smokers,” addresses the And the piece de resistance, “I don’t like either of them, so importance of a collective commitment between all Bucks students and staff about the impli- I’m not going to vote.” cations of “clean-air” and “smoke-free” zones in all three campuses. In addition, I feel that I blame television. Since its inception, campaigning has there are two key factors that need to be addressed by all committee representatives, which are never been the same. All of a sudden, people stopped listening the promotion of a “quit-smoking campaign” with referrals/resources to those who want to and started watching. Watching what a candidate was wear- quit smoking and the creation of a “smoking studies in our community college” by the involve- ing, watching their gestures. Watching and not listening. ment of students and faculty, so they can productively explore solutions to the facts and pos- After all the antennae wiggling, people started to think that sible side effects of smoking in our all campuses. Moreover, these suggestions can have prom- an election was about liking someone. You are not their friend ising opportunities for our community and college, like recruiting volunteers to help in collect- and it’s sad to see candidates play into the game. ing data and surveys. Overall, our concerns should not be limited to how we are going to set They are going to be a decision-maker, a diplomat, a law- perimeters to those who smoke but how we all are going to be an “activist” in this process maker. while it breaths in thin air. They are not going to disturb your dinner party with their Sincerely, opinions and long-winded diatribes. Dan Lopez So, please, stop caring that Obama’s so well-spoken and McCain is old. Ignore that Sarah Palin’s American flag lapel is sparkly (it looks so dumb) but listen instead. Agree or disagree with just one thing and go vote. Whether you like it or not, politics affects you. Whether you want to Got an opinion? believe it or not, voting makes a difference. Letters This is your country and it is your civic duty to vote. You Agree or disagree? want to enjoy your freedoms like you’re god’s gift to America To without paying your dues? Are you the smoker advocating for “smoker’s rights” and The Tell us in a letter to the editor. scoff at the election like you’re too good for it? Are you the Editor E-mail Editor-in-Chief Laura Irwin at person that wishes for something and has never taken one [email protected]. simple action or gesture to prove that you care? Well it is the immature, lazy and ignorant people who sit on their idol hands and complain about the world around them. Go change the world or shut up. Monday, October 13, 2008 Features 15 Food prices are hard to swallow

BY MICHAEL VESEL have nothing to do with the “It has to do with the econ- News Editor renovations, and the food omy, I understand why they prices at Bucks are very much have the prices set at what Food prices have risen at in line with prices at other they are,” said Lipinski. Bucks, hitting students’ wal- area colleges. According to a March 9 arti- lets hard, but is it a case of In checking with other com- cle in the Boston Globe, food greed, or the ripple effect munity colleges, it was found prices in the United States from a growing economic that all have fairly similar have increased at the fastest problem? pricing plans. Montgomery, rate since 1990. “I think it’s a bit ridicu- Mercer and Delaware County This will not be the last of lous,” said Samantha Community Colleges all fell the price hikes. According to Lipinski, a 20-year-old cine- in line with Bucks. the U.S. Department of ma video major from Fairless A typical chicken sandwich Agriculture, the price of food Hills, as she leaned on the on all three of their menus in the U.S. will increase by balcony overlooking the was around $4.25. This is 50 another 4 percent by the end Tyler courtyard. cents more than the cost of a of 2008. But why the high cost? chicken sandwich at Bucks, In an interview with the “I guess they have to make which sells a similar sand- Centurion last semester, up for the construction,” said wich for $3.75. Greg Tozzi, manager of cafe- teria services, talked about Scott Anton, a 22-year-old The entrée meals at these SOME STUDENTS CAN’T AFFORD TO EAT ON CAMPUS. graphic design major from schools show an even larger offering more healthy foods PHOTO BY KISHA LOWENTHAL Bristol, as he waited in line at curve in prices. Mercer sells on the menu but added, “We the Chic-fil-a in Newtown. their entrées, with two sides, would like to move towards “Thankfully I am not affect- for $4.50, Montgomery has going green by offering universities the same, but age Bucks student decide ed, because I do not buy the theirs at $5.50 and Delaware organic options, but the price they have a buffer with meal where to eat? The increasing- food.” has their prices set at a stag- is more and students are plans for their students, we ly long lines at the local Chic- So some students feel the gering $12.50. In contrast to already unhappy with the don’t,” said Lipinski. fil-a speak louder than words. hikes are due to the renova- Bucks entrées, which cost cost of food." How do students deal with “For a dollar or two more I tions and the improvements around $6, we seem to be in So how do students feel the costs? could just get fast food near- going on in the cafeteria. line with a trend in the local about the increases? If the school doesn’t have a by, and it’s a lot better too,” But in fact the price hikes area’s schools. “It affects other schools and meal plan, how does the aver- said Anton. CulinArt is card-friendly Womens Center Presents Breast Cancer Awareness Day BY DAVID NONINI The Centurion easier, and there will be Thursday The Bucks cafeteria is now more consis- accepting debit and credit tency when October 16 cards at the new cash regis- checking out. 11-3 p.m. ters, providing more accom- One of the modation for students. major com- Allied Health Building "It was time to update," said plaints from Rooms 202/203 Erin Maher, director of food students had Newtown Campus services. been that they 275 Swamp Road The decision to upgrade to were being Newtown, PA the new registers was the charged differ- AGENDA: result of continued interest by ently from one • Mary Chalich, discussion on diet and the student population in cashier to the the link to breast cancer at 11:00 a.m. • Breast cancer screening and diagnosis: alternative and more conven- next. This was Catherine Carruthers, MD • Breast cancer risk assessment and prevention: ient payment methods. a driving force Stacy Krisher, MD, FACS The old registers were cash- behind the • How women can heal: Beth Baughman DuPree, MD, FACS only machines, which meant implementa- For more information contact Natalie Kaye at the Women’s Center that students either had to tion of the new at 215-968-8015 or [email protected] have cash with them, or had registers. to withdraw money from the A new dis- IT’S EASIER TO PAY FOR FOOD ON CAMPUS Wachovia ATM machine out- play allows the PHOTO BY KISHA LOWENTHAL Bucks County Community College side the cafeteria. These regis- student to see Newtown • Bristol • Perkasie • www.bucks.edu ters were more traditional the charges make limited reports in con- and conventional, very limit- clearly so that they can make trast to what the new Where to learn. Where to return. ed in scope as to the functions sure that they are being machines can accomplish. that they could perform. A charged correctly. This will Maher said this will allow specific price was assigned to address the concerns about the cafeteria management to a handful of buttons, and students being charged identify patterns in sales, and there was limited room for inconsistently. get an idea of exactly what the keyboard. This func- In addition, the registers items are popular with stu- tioned much more slowly keep a record of all of the dents. The idea is for the cafe- than the new equipment. day's transactions in case teria to be better prepared for The new system is designed there is a problem that needs what students want, so that to allow more flexibility with to be cleared up later. The they can accommodate payment. This is helpful if the receipt database will allow accordingly. ATM is offline, which is the for quick reference so that With the installation of the only means of withdrawing any issues can be resolved registers, students seem to money on campus. quickly, unlike the old regis- find them helpful, and seem The registers, provided by ters. With a ticker-tape to like the ability to use their Ross Data System, include a receipt system, once a trans- cards. "We seem to use debit reorganized menu layout that action was finished on the old cards a lot more. This makes allows for more efficiency in registers, the sale was fin- it easier on the student ringing up items. The menu is ished for good. because we carry less cash," divided into easier categories, The new system has the said Matt Rumpf, 20. such as hot or cold breakfast, capability to print reports, With all this new technolo- lunch and drinks. showing volume of sales and gy in the cafeteria, it will be Featured photo:‘Barack O’Bunny’ Because of the user-friendly the items that sold, and which easier for students to buy nature of the new system, ones sold better than others. food, even if they don’t have By Ashley Pizzi, Centurion staff training new cashiers will be The old registers could only cash. contribute your photos by e-mailing a jpeg to [email protected] CCenturionenturion SSportsports

Monday, October 13, 2008 Trot, post and canter: Equestrian rides on

BY ASHLEY PIZZI is experienced. “I came off that Zone 3- Region 2. Unlike other Centurion Staff last jump at an angle,” Vona sports, Equestrian competition yelled before Jewell ccould even groups schools by region rather With alumnae athletes moving correct her mistake. than size or division. As a result, on, the Bucks Equestrian team is Another rider, Casey Nimmo, Bucks competes with schools hosting a brand new roster of 17, has been riding for seven such as Drexel, Temple, riders this season. years and will be competing in University of Pennsylvania and The first competition was Oct. the Hunter/Jumper class this West Chester University. 4 at Rider University; so finding fall. Of the class, Nimmo said, Schools compete in both Western a season preview involved a trip “It’s basically free showing! and English riding. to the stable. Also, the class is great practice In competition, the athletes It was mid-morning at the for the team.” pick their horse at random before George School’s upper riding Students wishing to compete they compete. This practice ring and about 10 horses were with the Bucks Equestrian team eliminates the bias that some- circling at a trot. do not have to own a horse or times comes from having a “bet- “Use your upper body as the pay for an individual class or ter,” more expensive horse for gas pedal!” “Get into the workout time at private barns. showing. rhythm!” Coach Amber Jewell The riders do pay for their com- John Hale, 18, is a Bucks fresh- was calling out commands to the petition in individual shows, but man who has been riding for 14 students in the Bucks horseman- the $30-$40 show fee is manage- years. Hale was jumping a par- ship class. This class doubles as able to these riders. ticularly stubborn horse at prac- practice for the equestrian team, At the collegiate level, showing tice, but met the challenge with and is open to anyone interested horses is considered a team and excitement and grace. “I’m look- in horsemanship at Bucks. individual sport. Riders score ing forward to showing a lot of Stephanie Vona, 18, is a fresh- points through the place and rib- different horses,” Hale remarked man that will be competing in bon they receive in competition. as he brushed his horse in the BUCKS EQUESTRIAN TEAM PRACTICES AT GEORGE SCHOOL PHOTO BY ASHLEY PIZZI the Hunter/Jumper class. Vona Individual points are added to barn, post-workout. Even as a cleared a series of jumps with form a team’s score and the non-rider, it is hard not to catch ease as she guided her horse for schools are ranked based on his enthusiasm. jumps and pull through figure- Equestrian competition. the day, Lakota, through a pass. these scores. In the end, the grace and eight maneuvers at a gallop is Information and schedules can From a non-rider’s prospective Bucks, along with 13 other area majesty of watching the horses reason enough any Bucks stu- be found on the Bucks website at the feat is impressive, but Vona schools, competes in the IHSA move fluently over cross-beam dent should attend the next bucks.edu/athletics. Baseball swings for another championship

BY RUSSELL HACKIUS helped forge a great chemistry schools, with the first game onship with only 11 players, experience for everyone. Centurion Staff within the team. against Montgomery County after starting the season with 24. “As long as you do the basics This year, Bohling has eight Community College. Bohling For the upcoming season, of the game, you win,” said That time of year is upon us returning players. Some of these will be looking for talented play- Bohling is giving his players a lit- Bohling. Their ability to execute when our national pastime players include star pitcher ers who mesh well with the tle extra incentive. If they repeat fundamental baseball played a comes into the forefront of the Graig Keiffer and star third base- team’s existing chemistry. as champions, he hopes to major role in their championship sports world. As the pros swing man Ryan Hermann. Bohling stated, “I feel confident reward them with a week in win. and slide into the playoffs, Bucks And 16 new players are trying with the chemistry of the play- Disney World. While in Orlando, The returning players know baseball kicks off their fall season out for the team. Bohling feels ers.” the team would play six games this, and plan to instill this phi- with dreams of successfully that this new crop of players That is assuming every player against teams from Florida as losophy into the new players. defending their league title. brings an element the team has stays with the team for the dura- part of their spring training. The Bohling’s returning stars are not Last year, Bucks brought home been short on—speed. With tion of the season. Bohling has team would be staying at the All- content with losing and will give the district championship. more speed in their arsenal, had trouble in the past, losing Star Sports Resort located right their all to win. Coach Mark Bohling was the Bohling believes that as long as players who had poor GPAs or near the parks. They’ve tasted victory and are man behind making it all hap- they play with the same fire they lacked enough credits to stay on Bohling is brain-storming hungry for more. pen. His humorous nature and had last year their success will the team. Each year about six-to- ideas on how he will raise the If the new players catch this easy-going style of coaching paid carry over into this season. eight players are lost for these money. He feels that successful- desire and play with the tenacity off in the end. Allowing the team The season will begin with pre- reasons. ly defending their championship Bohling got out of last year’s to see his goofy side, Bohling season games in October. These Last year the team impressive- and being rewarded with a trip team, Bucks can expect another connected with his players. This games will be against local ly brought home the champi- to Disney would be an amazing amazing season of baseball.

Palin gets mixed reaction BUCKS SCORE BOARD (W) 10-0 By The Associated Press Palin waved to the crowd and The NHL said it did not view WOMAN'S smiled as she dropped the puck the Flyers' invitation to be politi- VOLLEYBALL Sept. 27 PHILADELPHIA—To a mix- to applause and cheers. Palin cally motivated. vs. Harrisburg ture of boos and cheers, stuck around and watched two "Governor Palin is a supporter Sept. 24 (W) 9-3 Republican vice-presidential periods in the Rangers' 4-3 win of the sport, which she has pro- vs. Harrisburg candidate Sarah Palin dropped over the Flyers. claimed publicly," NHL deputy (L) 23-25, (W) 25-16, (W) 28-26, the ceremonial first puck "As a proud hockey mom and commissioner Bill Daly said. "As (L) 19-25, (W) 16-14. MEN'S Saturday night at the an avid NHL fan, I was thrilled a public figure who has a very GOLF Philadelphia Flyers' home open- to be here," Palin said. "I enjoyed public connection with hockey, Sept. 27 er against the New York joining the Philadelphia Flyers to her recent associations with the vs. Philadelphia Sept. 19 Rangers. drop the puck at tonight's game. Flyers and other NHL franchises (W) 25-10, (L) 25-17, (W) 25-15, vs. Luzerne The Alaska governor and self- I wish them the best of luck this is not surprising and, in our (L) 25-20, (W) 16-14 Sand Springs, Drums described "hockey mom" heard a season." view, not inappropriate." 3rd Place team score - 330 few boos when she walked onto Last month, Palin visited a There were no apparent signs MEN'S the ice, but that soon turned to Philadelphia bar with Flyers of protest outside the arena, and Sept. 29 polite applause as she headed to owner Ed Snider, who has donat- one fan held a sign that read SOCCER vs. Harrisburg center ice with Mike Richards of ed money to Republican presi- "Vote Obama" behind New Sept. 23 Dauphin Highlands, Harrisburg the Flyers and Scott Gomez — dential nominee John McCain's York's net. A few other held 5th place team score - 345 from Alaska — of the Rangers. campaign. "Obama-Biden" signs behind her. vs. Delaware