NEWS OPINION FEATURES SPORTS MEGACON 1

March 30, 2011 VOLUME 15 • ISSUE 13 VALENCIAVOICE.COM

West Campus SGA debate Meet the candidates Talk Nerdy to Me Presidential candidate discusses important issues Pg. 4 Shardeh Berry By James Austin Chief-of-staff and VCC student RDV Sportsplex to host West Campus Vice Presidential candidate [email protected] since Fall 2009, said that he wanted sports, and increasing school spirit • Current Parlimentarian of SGA to bring back intramural sports to by holding pep rallies, campus • Platform: The right to vote is one of our West Campus, would work to create competitions and fundraisers to Richer variety of courses for nations founding principles. It gives a mentorship program avalible for support campus clubs. those who can only us, the citizens, the opportunity to Though she is running access one campus make our society better by electing unopposed, the Vice Presidential leaders who we think best represent candidate Berry released her own our thoughts and beliefs. platform that she will be focusing Wendell Smith Jr It’s time again for Valencia’s on in the coming year, including Presidential candidate Student Government elections and encouraging more students to to help the student body make an actively participate in campus • Current Vice President of SGA Playlist Live educated decision the West Campus events. She also wants to focus on • Platform: SGA debates were held on the SSB making more courses available to Increase student participation patio this past Tuesday. all campus’s. Partner with local sportsplex to Pg. 7 host club sports. There were three candidates The power of the people is a scheduled to participate in the guiding light in the politics of this debates. The two Presidential country. Our right to vote was candidates, Patrick O’Conner established in the Constitution so Patrick O’Conner and Wendell Smith Jr, and the all students, and have a more open that citizens would always be in Presidential candidate unopposed Vice Presidential and available system for getting control of their own destiny and so candidate Shardeh Berry. class and professor information. that the will of the people would • Current Chief-of-Staff of SGA. Platform: O’Conner was the first and only Smith wasn’t at the debate but always be heard. • Make class selection easier by candidate to speak, Smith and Berry has published his platform goals. To make sure your voice is heard making syllabuses available during could not make it for unspecified Including wanting to continue the by Valencia make sure you go to registration. reasons and neither were available ‘Free the Children’ fundraiser to your Atlas account Monday April Create a mentorship program that for comment. supply clean drinking water to 4th and Tuesday April 5th to vote for is open to all students. Spring training O’Conner, the current SGA family’s in Haiti, working with the your Student Government.

Pg. 11 NEWS OPINION FEATURES SPORTS MEGACON 2

what the Hillsborough County School District is doing as part of its $100 million Bill & Melinda Gates Now the FCAT matters Foundation grant. No shoe day Locally, it involves hiring six peer evaluators, SGA is hosting an event to celebrate ‘One Day With- New bill makes teachers pay based on test scores who will help evaluate teachers, and that would out Shoes’ on April 5th in HSB 105 and building 3-111. constitute a percentage point toward merit pay. ‘One Day Without Shoes’ is a movement started by By Pallavi Agarwal evaluation methods to the Florida Department of Howerton concurred with Hancock and Tuck that Toms Shoes, a company that donates a pair of shoes Highlands Today, Sebring, Fla. Education. to someone in need for every pair purchessed. teachers were underpaid but was concerned about School board member Ned Hancock said the ‘One Day Without Shoes’ purports to raise aware- paying for a merit pay plan during a money crunch Thursday, Gov. Rick Scott signed into law a merit school district has started working on the framework ness of the vast amount of people in the world who can’t and devising a system that was fair to everyone. pay system to reward teachers who do a good job. of its evaluation tool. afford to wear shoes. Many people celebrate by going Deputy School Superintendent Rodney Hollinger Now, local school board officials want to know The school's Director of Human Resources Vivian the whole day without wearing shoes of their own; from said it was too early for him to make a comment on how lawmakers want the school districts to fund these Waldron explained the evaluation system they were the moment they wake-up until they go to bed like mil- the law's impact on the school district. lions who cannot afford shoes of their own. pay raises, without allocating any money for them. creating was part of the requirements of the federal He said state education legislative experts As well as showing documentary on Toms Shoes, A day after the merit pay bill became law -- one Race To The Top grant and mirrors what the new law will have to first study the law and pass on their SGA will be giving away Toms flags to promote aware- year after former Gov. Charlie Crist vetoed a similar mandates, mainly that half of a teacher's evaluation interpretation to school districts. ness. They will also be collecting donations of old bill last year -- many questions remain. be linked to student growth and achievement. He hopes to have a better idea by early May. shoes to be sent to Souls4souls, a chairty focused on School board member Andy Tuck said he intends Hancock added while he thought the new law "It (the bill) hasn't been explained to us," he said. getting shoes to those in need. to go to Tallahassee next week to ask that same would be beneficial in the long run, there were some "It was just signed yesterday." question, namely how much teachers could make in parts he did not like. ­—MCT Campus merit raises and where the money was to come from. He was concerned school districts would have Starting next school year, the new law also re- a hard time instituting a merit pay system during quires school districts to institute a teacher evalua- challenging economic times. tion system tied heavily to how their students per- "The most immediate impact (of the new law), form on the Florida Comprehensive Assessment it has yet to be seen," he said. Although "I'm all for Good business Test and other exams over a three-year period. good teachers to make more in line with what the School districts have until June 1 to submit their rest of their profession is making." Hancock also wondered how teachers who is a Skill. taught non-FCAT subjects like P.E., music and fine arts would be evaluated. According to the Florida Education Association, school districts had to institute end-of-the-year exams for non-FCAT courses by 2014. Master it. While the evaluation system has to be put into place by next school year, schools have three years to institute the merit pay plan. “I initially chose Columbia College for The new law also grandfathers in existing the flexibility, as I knew I would be deploying with my National Guard unit teachers unless they move to another school a few years ago, and I could complete district or opt to participate in the merit plan. courses online while deployed.” School board member Donna Howerton said she was happy the local teachers union, teachers Josh Boesen ‘09 Toll free: (877) 999-9876 Master of Business Administration Kurt Strazdins and administrators have been working together www.ccis.edu/masterit Teachers pay will now depend on how students preform to design the evaluation system that matches 2600 Technology Dr. • Orlando, FL NEWSNEWS OPINION 3 FEATURES FEATURESSPORTS SPORTSMEGACON ROLLINS WAS NOT Trust tested in new survey ONLY AN Media trustworthiness scores all-time low OPTION,

By Collin Dever Valencia was picked to host the talks because of IT WAS [email protected] the kind of conversation it supports. The survey also ranked Academic/experts as THE BEST The President and CEO of Edleman U.S., Mat- the highest trusted source for information and a CHOICE. thew J. Harrington, spoke to a small audience of regular employee as the least trusted source. honors students on Wednesday about the compa- “Our culture places a very high premium on Not just because ny’s annual Trust Barometer. The report globally expertise,” said Shugart. “Educational institutions Rollins offers an surveys levels of trust of government, business, are still generally regarded as places where self in- and media organizations. terest is not so strongly encouraged.” affordable The highest scoring country overall was Brazil, Overall the summary emphasizes the impor- education, but proving to be the most trusting of the 23 countries tance of trust because of the motility it provides because the that were surveyed, scoring 25 points above the an organization. Public impression will sway but challenge is immediate, Learn about financial aid, scholarships, transferring global average. trustworthy groups will have the flexibility to the inspiration to do “What you saw here was the emerging markets, bounce back. Trust provides a foundation that credits and more at our B.A. information session: well is plentiful, and the the BRICs, their buoyancy in terms of their eco- shelters organizations during rough times. Thursday, April 7, 6:00 p.m. nomic advancements and societal advancements “We’re tracking the changing nature of trust tools to succeed are and therefore trusted within all institutions,” said in our institutional segments,” said Harrington. always available. Galloway Room, Mills Memorial Center Harrington. “What’s most important is what the value of trust JON ARGUELLO ’11 Rollins Campus, Winter Park BRIC, an acronym for Brazil, Russia, India, and is.” China, all seen to be in the same stages of emerg- The report demonstrates the building of trust ing economic development. through transparency, engagement, and profit with ROLLINS EVENING PROGRAMS AT THE HAMILTON HOLT SCHOOL The United States dropped from fourth to 10th a purpose. By this model organizations should in just a three year time span. Harrington points to work to not be seen as hiding anything, active in BACHELOR’S DEGREES: • Humanities lack of job creation, the negative rhetoric in gov- dialogue with citizens, and giving back to human- • Computer Science • International Affairs ernment, and polarization of the media as reasons ity with the extra money they make. • Economics • Music for a drop in American trust. The report was compiled by 30 minute phone • English • Organizational Behavior Media in America was the least trusted source surveys of 5,075 people considered informed pub- • Environmental and Growth • Organizational Communication of information with only 27 percent support. Down lic broken into two age groups 25 to 34 and 35 to Management Studies • Psychology 19 percent since 2008. 64. Edleman describes “informed public” as a col- Earlier in the morning Harrington gave a simi- lege educated person whose income is in the top RSVP: rollins.edu/holt or 407-646-2232 lar presentation to Valencia Faculty and Staff and 25 percent for their age and invest time in news some members of the community. The presenta- media and follows public policy several times a tions are part of a series aimed to build dialogue week. around the issue of trust. For more information and to view the 2011 Dr. Sandy Shugart, President of Valencia Col- Edleman Trust Barometer Executive Summary go A ROLLINS EDUCATION lege, attended the first presentation and said that to http://www.edelman.com/trust/2011/. GREATER CONNECTIONS NEWS OPINION FEATURES SPORTS MEGACON 4 Being a nerd has never been cooler Our Staff Collin Dever Times have changed and so have the rules on what is the social norm [email protected] Editor-in-Chief

They are all around us and with their reference of spe- the minds of those more apt with world of the modern nerd. Tiffany Janiczek while so many of them are clear as cific puns. talking to computers than people. The movie industry of today [email protected] day to spot out in a crowd, many Nerdom is back and in a Whether their expertise is in is certainly no stranger to the odd of them go through their everyday big way. comics, anime, science, role play- interests and hobbies of what has Managing Editor lives under the cloak of anonym- Once a self-serving joke of ing, technology, science fiction, undoubtedly become it’s biggest ity. They can be anyone regardless comfort, the old saying that “the or fantasy literature, nerds have fan base for comic-based movies Editorial Design of race, sex, or social status. They nerds of today are the million- made made their mark on indus- and sci-fi thrillers. They are every- James Austin Jenn Stripling are your family, friends, employ- aires of tomorrow,” hasn’t been tries the world over. where, and their taste in overly ers and even significant others. A priced movie memorabilia is in- [email protected] [email protected] demographic that has, over the satiable. News Editor Creative Director years, gained army-like numbers. It is difficult to imagine a I speak of a greatly misunder- world without nerds and their Victor Ocasio Emmanuel Colon stood group: nerds. contributions to humanity. It [email protected] [email protected] For almost as long as human would be completely unreason- Opinion Editor Web Master history has been in existence, this able to think that some of hu- silent minority has had its influ- manity’s greatest achievements ence in so many areas of science, didn’t owe their success in part to Verónica Figueroa Anna Gerrol literature, music, and art, all the contributions of social misfits [email protected] [email protected] while taking the ribbing of their wanting nothing more to visit the Features Editor Graphic Designer peers in stride. stars like Han Solo, or communi- Too long has the word nerd cate wirelessly like Captain Kirk. Elisanett Martinez Shannon Metherell been almost a scarlet letter of Their imagination is the spark shame, branding individuals for that guides the world into its cre- [email protected] [email protected] their personal underground in- ative and technological futures. So Sports Editor Wire Designer terests in things not meant for the next time you find yourself sitting mainstream and ostracizing them in a crowd, do one thing. Look to Jonathan Terbeche / Valencia Voice Jonathan Terbeche Russell Griner to a social group which has de- Megacon, the largest convention in Florida, brings nerds together. your left. Look to your right. Then [email protected] [email protected] veloped a reputation for socially look inside yourself. Chances are Copy Chief Photo Editor awkward behavior. more accurate than it is now in Even the trendy fashionistas you will find a little bit of nerd in But times have changed and this technologically dominated, of New York and Los Angeles all three. in our generation, the nerds of the socially networked world. have stopped to take notice of This past weekend the Va- Marketing / Advertising Earth have risen up, crawled out Time Magazine’s Man of the the growing population mak- lencia Voice went to Megacon, from the basements of parental year, Mark Zuckerberg, now one ing nerd chic a popular style of possibly the greatest collec- Nikki Namdar Alex Barrett domains, unhinged the lockers of the youngest billionaires in his- clothing for many outsiders too tion of nerds in Florida. Check [email protected] [email protected] of confinement and have flooded tory has become an icon for what hesitant to truly dive into the out our coverage at the end of Marketing Coordinator Ad Sales every facet of social interactions creative possibilities lie within diverse pocket protector-filled the Voice. For information on advertisitng contact [email protected] NEWS OPINION FEATURES SPORTS MEGACON 5 Superstition is the way What things are you superstitious about? By Rofkens Petite-Homme [email protected]

It happens. You break a mirror, or walk under a ladder or avoid stepping on any pavement cracks. Whether it is done on purpose or not, the ideas set forth by superstition have been embedded in society for centuries. That feeling of creepiness you occasionally get in that one dimly lit room at grandmas house has a universal theme. Every culture has different stories that deal with items of the unknown. The Haitian culture has a rule that says you cannot sweep a persons feet or you might face a future divorce or a life with out a spouse. Old America had a preference to the number 13 and one particular house was built to cater to that ‘lucky’ number. Today that house is “I would have to say I’m su- “I honestly have nothing I’m “I’m a server at a restaurant “I am not a superstitious per- currently one of the most scariest haunted houses in North America. perstitious about ghosts.” superstitious about.” and if I spill salt, I’ll pick some up son at all.” Here are my top five greatest superstitions. One is when I have a and throw it over my shoulder.” sense of déjà vu. For some reason after every instance, something really good happens or something really bad happens, like my car — Andre Simpson — Jordan Guzman — William Baudree — Ata Hameed breaking down 54 miles away from my house. Number two are black cats crossing my path. It is really not as bad as you might think. I find no less then five dollars lying around every time it happens. Number three has to be keeping all the lights in my house on when I am inside by myself for more than 48 hours. Don’t ask about this one, but number four is spilling ketchup every time I see a ginger (red) haired male or female. They are scary people. And number five has to be tying my shoelaces over my ankles extra tight before playing basketball. Hey, different people have complex and unique things that help them cope with every day life. Poker star John Racener chewed bub- ble gum on his final leg of the World Series of Poker championships. He ended up winning $8,944,310. No matter if it is for a good cause or you just do not want some- “I’m superstitious about step- “I’m pretty superstitious “Just walking underneath lad- “I throw pennies around my thing bad to happen, superstitions are a part of life and will con- ping over someone. My mom about putting all my materials in ders, I guess.” room for good luck.” tinue to be for a long time. told me it stunts their growth.” order before I study.”

— Taiama Ferrira — Mike Aponte — Holly Peacock — Linda Bridier

Photos by Rofkens Petite-Homme, Reporting by Christine Saraceno NEWS OPINION FEATURES SPORTS MEGACON 6

oppose him.” Obama said, About Time “The demo- Superstition-fact or myth President Obama speaks cratic impulses that are dawn- Studies suggest that people create superstition about Libyan intervention ing across the By Camilo Echeverri Bernal case anything came out of there. the experience, even if the al- region would By James Austin [email protected] There are evolutionary ex- leged evidence may be the re- be eclipsed by [email protected] planations for fear of the dark. sult of wishful thinking. Not the darkest A poll taken in 2007 says that In the same poll, nearly 48 thorough research or controlled form of dicta- “Born, as we are, out of a revolution by those one third of Americans believe percent of people said they be- experiments. torship, as re- who longed to be free, we welcome the fact that his- in ghosts, 34 percent say they lieve in extrasensory perception. Other results indicated that pressive lead- tory is on the move in the Middle East and North believe in unidentified flying 19 percent believe that spells ers concluded that violence is the best strategy to Africa, and that young people are leading the way. objects, according to the poll by or witchcraft exists. The be- cling to power.” Because wherever people long to be free, they will the Associated Press and Ipsos. lief in witchcraft and spells is The president also made it clear that while find a friend in the United States.” Nobel Peace Prize You may say that you know still common in third world our government wants Gaddafi to be gone, it was winner, and current president Barrack Obama, ad- someone who does, but is this countries and amongst the un- not the goal of this engagement, saying, “If we dressed the nation this past Monday from the Na- common? Yes. educated. It is also known that tried to overthrow Gaddafi by force, our coali- tional Defense University to explain and justify Superstition has been a part these segments of the popula- tion would splinter. We would likely have to put America’s intervention into the Libyan conflict. of many cultures throughout tion are more prone to hold the U.S. troops on the ground, or risk killing many 7 days ago the UN approved Resolution 1973, history, and it is no different existence of demons,angels and civilians from the air.” a resolution to end all violence against civilians nowadays, from old wives tales monsters as being factual, albeit He also did his best to differentiate between this in the African country of Libya. The Resolution about spilling salt, to the num- the fact that they may not have conflict and the Iraq war. “Thanks to the extraordi- was supported by the United States, the European ber thirteen and Friday the thir- seen them themselves. Some- nary sacrifices of our troops and the determination Union, the Arab League and NATO. The coalition teenth, breaking mirrors, step- times they find photographs of our diplomats, we are hopeful about Iraq’s fu- of forces, led by the US, immediately went into ping on cracks and the influence that are dubious in nature and ture.” Said Obama, “But regime change there took action, setting up a ‘no fly zone’ over Libya. This of the moon upon behaviour are use them as proof. Examples eight years, thousands of American and Iraqi lives, eliminated General Muammar Gaddafi’s ability commonly held folkloric expla- are bigfoot, Nessie, and skin- and nearly a trillion dollars. That is not something to use air power against the rebel forces currently nations that groups still cling walkers. we can afford to repeat in Libya.” protesting his rule. onto. Even in the face of scien- Psychologists have said All in all this speech gave some of the best in- Jim Atherton / MCT Obama’s swift action to send troops into yet tific literature that dispels the causes for superstition “ in- sight to date into the Obama administrations for- another conflict overseas caused many in the po- alleged mysticism or mystery clude the human propensity to eign policy. He made sure to mention why we in- litical and media community to be uneasy. Not of these claims as nothing more Whether they were under the in- ascribe meaning to coincidence tervened in Libya as opposed to other oppressed only was the military action sudden, it’s constitu- than paranoia and psychologi- fluence of some consciousness- or to assert control over uncon- nations, and made it clear that America would sus- tionality has been called into question by lawmak- cal disturbances at times. altering substance or lacked trollable events.” And when tain it’s leadership position in the world. ers and pundits alike. Some of us hold some su- oxygen to the brain is unknown. life becomes miserable or fac- While the speech was good, and it was de- Obama addressed some of these concerns in perstitious idea to some degree, Individuals prone to these kinds tors and events are unknown livered well, it came incredibly late. This speech his speech by clarifying why he felt that interven- or used to. One being when we of notions tend to seek the sup- and or undesirable, people will should have been delivered the day of, if not the tion in Libya was not only preventing a “humani- were children and afraid of the port and confirmation of those resort to the delusion of turn- day before, the action was ordered. Obama could tarian crisis” but also defending Americas best in- dark at bed time. We’d leave the around them in a process called ing to metaphysics, divination have avoided a week of bad press and media spec- terests in the region. lights on, or would cuddle up confirmation bias. This is when and astrology to find answers ulation if he had explained this reasoning about “America has an important strategic interest in with our stuffed animals. Con- the individual will look for the about the outside world. nine days ago. preventing Gaddafi from overrunning those who stantly looking at the closet--in evidence they think will prove NEWS OPINION FEATURES SPORTS MEGACON 7 Fans give a ‘thumbs up’ to this playlist First ‘Playlist Live’ convention brings the stars of Youtube up close with those who made them famous

By Veronica Figueroa The host, YouTube’s were also given an official Playlist TheTimTracker, so he was able to [email protected] TheWillofDC, and Kevin tote bag which had a trial version come to Playlist. Khandijian, the primary organizer of VideoStudioX4, a “Music “I yelled so hard, I lost my Orlando, Florida became the of this event, opened the show to Industry Survival Manual: voice,” he said. home of the first Playlist Live 1,500 eager fans on Saturday the How Not To Get Screwed,” an The first act of the weekend, convention this past weekend. It 26th at 10 a.m. at the Orlando Orlando coupon book, and the Gaby Montero and Emerson was a celebration which brought World Center Marriott Resort’s official Playlist Live guidebook Spartz from OMGFacts were YouTube celebrities and their fans Crystal Ballroom. which had artist profiles and the introduced and they started off together for a weekend of being Registration began at 8 a.m. schedules for both days. the show by playing a video of surrounded by people who love and after receiving a Playlist Fan Manuel Fernandez won unknown facts about the artists online videos. wristband for the weekend, fans tickets from YouTube celeb participating in Playlist. It ran for about 10 minutes, which was unusually long from their usual 1:45 shorts on YouTube. There was a lot of audience participation throughout the weekend; meet-ups with the artists and Q&A with the crowd. Catrific had fans compete for the best cat meow and the Vlog Candy team had small groups of Sebastian Arbelaez / Valencia Voice fans doing improv on stage. Kassem G answers a uncomfortable fan question about his web series. The stars themselves were seen around the hotel throughout and Alex Carpenter decided to monetizing and new media online. the weekend. hold their own little get-together When asked about where the Jenny Varner came from outside. They were playing their future of brands on the Internet Austin, Texas for Playlist with her guitars and singing for a few was going, YouTube’s manager brother and when arriving at the fans outside but then decided to of strategic partnerships, hotel on Friday evening the fan run back into the hotel causing Margaret Healy, said that was shocked to see some of her a commotion and more curious brands should pick a star that favorite YouTubers hanging out. fans to run after them. They will want to talk about the “It was a stroke of luck. My brother played outside for about half an product. She also talked about and I were at the food court and hour, bringing around 70 fans the YouTube partner program, we ran into KassemG, ShayCarl, with them, including Youtube’s where YouTube takes channels HiimRawn, and WheezyWaiter!” Mike Lombardo, Robyn into the next level by creating Schneider, and Nice Peter. revenue for the vlogger and his Sebastian Arbelaez / Valencia Voice The musical performances YouTube celeb Jimmy Wong sang his song “Ching Chong (It means I love you)” to the crowd, a song inspired were a big part of Playlist however, On the second day of Playlist by an ignorant UCLA student who complained about the “hoardes” of Asians at her school. Jimmy Wong, Jason Munday, there was a discussion panel on continued on page 8 NEWS OPINION FEATURES SPORTS MEGACON 8 Playlist Live Visionary film delivers low blow New movie from Zack Snyder has his look, but is lacking where it counts continued from page 7 or her channel. By Jonathan Terbeche The movie opens up with dialogue-less se- Real-Influence.com’s Marcelo Camberos [email protected] quences establishing back story. It is quite emo- added to Healy’s comment by talking about his tional and jarring and sets the stage fairly well. company which helps vloggers receive editorial When “300” came out in theaters back in 2006, The main character, Baby Doll, played by Em- endorsements from top influences. Real- movie-goers were amazed by the gritty, stylized ily Browning, is sold to an insane asylum by her Influence’s network generates over 300 million visuals crafted by director, Zack Snyder. Based stepfather wanting the content of her mother’s views per month across 15 million viewers. on the graphic novel of the same name, the story will. He pays for a lobotomy to be done to her “We want to enable people to make a living was largely already established, and while good, immediately after her admission. by making videos,” Healy concluded. was not the high point of the movie. The asylum also doubles as a strip club/sex YouTube celebrity, Kassem G, who has a series Again in 2009, fans of Snyder’s dark, unique vi- harem and puts the girls inside to work, dancing titled “California on...”, where he interviews sual style were rewarded with the movie “Watch- and pleasing customers. When its Baby Doll’s Sebastian Arbelaez / Valencia Voice men.” Yet another graphic novel adaptation, the turn to dance, she teleports to a fantasy world. people on the streets about current events was A lucky fan scored an autograph from Dave Days. a crowd favorite at Playlist. His meet and greet, rich story about realistic super heroes made one of Here she meets a wise old hermit who gives her Kassem humorously answered, “I used to live along with Nice Peter, went on for longer than it the first steps in changing a very stagnant genre. weapons and tells her she must find five items if in Kissimmee, Florida when I was six. I went was supposed to, causing his performance on the But the story still took an obvious second seat to she wants to escape. to Highlands Elementary school. I know about main stage to be delayed. Kassem G has over 1 the rest of the movie’s great production. From there, she requests the aid of four other places like St. Cloud and I remember there being million subscribers on his channel. Now it is two years later and Snyder’s third girls and their journey through imagination com- a place called Medieval Times.” When asked about “California on Florida,” major film, “Sucker Punch” makes its debut. This mences. The worlds are certainly imaginative, and District Lines was a major sponsor of Playlist is the first film in which there was no source ma- amazing to look at. In one scene you’ll be flying in a Live and was developed by terial, allowing Snyder to craft his own, unique WWII carrier plane, and in the next you’ll be escap- 25 year old Kevin Khandijian. storyline. Unfortunately, the story is not just the ing the crimson flames of a dragon. The suspension This unique company creates weakest aspect to the film, but it is just plain bad. of disbelief required of viewers is quite large. Ev- a “secure environment that erything that happens is painfully unrealistic. allows artists to sell their Should you be able to accept the fiction for products and consumers to what it is, then enjoyment can be had. The vi- embrace their passions,” as suals are amazing. The sound and music draw said on the mission statement you into each scene. Even the acting, while not of districtlines.com. groundbreaking, is well done, using a lot of fa- All in all, it was a great cial expression and body language. first year for the Playlist Live Unfortunately though, none of these things convention. Fans have already is enough to redeem the lack of motivation for began “tweeting” asking if most of the story, the cheap twists it throws in at there will be another gathering the end, and the sheer ridiculousness of it all. The next year. If that’s the case, entire film is one awkward juxtaposition of seri- surely Orlando won’t mind ous themes, to hilarious, campy action. Throw Sebastian Arbelaez / Valencia Voice hosting the event for Playlist Jeff Price, Sam Levine, Marcelo Camberos, Jason Steele and Marga- Clay Enos / Courtesy Warner Bros / MCT in a cast of very attractive, semi-clothed young ret Healy led the discussion on monetizing and new media. Live’s terrible two’s! Emily Browning is Baby Doll on “Sucker Punch.” women, and there you have “Sucker Punch.” NEWS OPINION FEATURES SPORTS MEGACON 9

don’t speak to me/But I don’t blame ‘em” on Repetitive sound “I Never Learnt to Share” or “There’s a limit to your love” on (wait for it...) “There’s a Limit to Peter, Bjorn, and John ‘give us some’ Your Love”. ‘Limits’ Blake Scandinavian indie pop trio engrain their addictive music into fans heads In horror movies, there is often a lot of fore- Self-titled debut divides fans shadowing of coming ominous events, whether By Christine Saraceno The album opens with the Saturday Night Live sketch, it be a darkening sky, or a sketchy looking man. By Christine Saraceno [email protected] very persistent drum beat of Christopher Walken uttered the Well the opening track, “Unluck”, is this album’s [email protected] “Tomorrow Has to Wait” almost immortal words “I’ve got a fe- sketchy looking man. It just gives you this aw- Not since the “Dancing as if the first track is it’s rallying ver and the only prescription is ful, uneasy feeling that maybe you should turn British dubstep darling James Blake has re- Queen” days of ABBA has it been cry. Many of the tracks flirt with more cowbell.” Well if Blue Oys- around and not go on, but like the plot of any leased his self-titled debut to rave reviews. Spin such a good time to be a Swedish Vampire Weekend type guitar ter Cult’s “Don’t Fear the Reap- good slasher film, you do anyway. It’s all just magazine said “Blake’s rare talent is to make singer or band. er” didn’t cure him then PB&J’s downhill from there. music so naked seem unshakable.” The great “Wounded Rhymes,” the “Second Chance” just might do thing about music is that it’s all based on opin- sophomore release from reclu- the trick. It beautifully incorpo- ion. What one person likes, another may hate, “It’s sleepy, drawn out, and boring. sive Swede Lykke Li, has been rates the cowbell into its 1960’s as in this case. The lyrics are very introspective doing well on music charts melody as it snakes its way to- This music is not “unshakable.” The whole worldwide. Stockholm native, wards its infectious chrous. album, on the contrary, is quite repetitive. and emotional to a point.” Robyn has been steadily gain- Valencia student, Jacqueline Many people when they want to make a point ing momentum in the American Tilson said “I thought ‘Young about their distaste for a musician will say electropop scene since the release Folks’ was a really good song. I “All of their music sounds alike.” Well in this of her critically acclaimed “Body have it on my iPod actually. I’ll If there’s any positive aspect to this CD it case it’s true. It’s sleepy, drawn out, and boring. Talk Pt. 2.” probably give their new album might be the above mentioned “There’s a Limit The lyrics are very introspective and emotional But things are arguably the a listen.” to Your Love” who’s partial piano composition to a point. best for the innovators of this riffs such as the second song “Dig Peter, Bjorn, and John al- serves as a nice break to the odd ambient feeling In every single track he repeats one line over resurgence of Scandinavian in- a Little Deeper” which calls out ways seem to breathe new life of the other songs. and over whether it be “My brother and sister die pop, Peter, Bjorn, and John artists on their “contemporary” into music just when it’s begin- The production value is also quite beautiful (PB&J). The “Young Folks” work and the very short “Break- ning to become stale and with and it’s the minor additions like the faint sound group, who probably still have er Breaker” (just a mere 1:41 this new release they have done of water dropping or a distant chiming that give you whistling to this day, are re- long) which very simply states: it again. It’s addictive and much the songs their depth. It’s usually drowned out leasing their sixth studio album, “Before you break my heart/I’m like “Young Folks,” you’ll be de- by the heavily distorted bass beats which is to “Gimme Some,” to many posi- gonna break your arm.” fenseless against it being stuck in be expected from someone who made his name tive reviews. During a very memorable your head. as a club DJ. After listening to “The Wilhelm Scream”, OTHER VIEWS Valencia student Briana Mandeo said “That was really weird. I would not buy that album if it all “It’s worth sticking “‘Gimme Some’ finds “They aren’t trying to sounds like that.” around and seeing this them grabbing at life throw a muscle shirt over This month many good albums have come band through.” with a rubber-band their [...] lyricism, they’re out and some may say this is one of them. That’s rhythmic energy.” pumping it up.” up to you to decide, but hopefully after reading this review you won’t bother putting yourself — SPIN — NME —Rolling Stone through the agony. NEWS OPINION FEATURES SPORTS MEGACON 10 Nintendo 3DS adds new dimension to entertainment 3-D visuals and wireless connectivity gives this device its own set of handheld legs

By Jonathan Terbeche behind, has introduced their response to the 3-D and a new feature called street pass, where the 3Ds [email protected] craze. The Nintendo 3DS, sequel to the Nintendo constantly looks for, and locates other 3DS devices DS, is the first piece of technology to feature full and communicates with them. Many trends in entertainment have recurring 3-D graphics without the need for glasses. It is able to play all previous DS games, and will behaviors, so that something popular twenty years Skeptics having a difficult time accepting the have an eShop selling Game Boy and Game Boy ago has a high chance of being popular today. One effects of the device have the chance to test it out Advance games. Only the 3DS games can support such trend is the use of 3-D visuals in movies, tele- for themselves at any local GameStop. What makes the 3-D visuals however. vision, and video games. it work is the top screen of the device. Built in are Included in the system are app-like games. One Popular decades ago, the use of stereoscopic two screens with shutters that filter light to each called Faceblasters, one in which you can create 3-D with those iconic red and blue glasses in mov- eye. Of course this means that the 3-D effect is only Miis (Nintendo avatars) by taking pictures, and ies was the definition of a fad. Imperfect technol- effective from the perfect angle. But when it is... one called AR Reader in which you play games us- ogy and gimmicky visuals resulted in an eventual The visuals of the 3DS are without a doubt ing altered reality cards. loss of interest from audiences. amazing. Not only is the 3-D impressive, but the Overall, the many features of the 3DS, accom- 2011 With a strong push by the success of movie graphics are truly the best ever displayed on a por- panied by the impressive visuals, make it one of heavy weight “Avatar,” 3-D began its return. Us- table device, comparable to those of a home con- the most unique pieces of entertainment technol- Released this past Sunday, ing new technology, shutter glasses, and effec- sole. ogy ever made. Already cell phones, tablets, and the 3DS is capable of tive depth in scenes, if 3-D technology ever had a Though it is called the 3DS, 3-D is not the only, other handheld devices are being developed with viewing 3D without any chance at remaining mainstream, this would be it. or even most impressive feature about the device. this technology in mind. But it looks like Nintendo special glasses. The ever-innovative Nintendo, not to be left It includes Wi-Fi, Infrared, wireless connectivity, get’s the 1-Up on this one!

One of the makeovers of the Game Boy As of 2010, the DS is the was the Game top seling hand held Boy Color. system with over 144 million units sold. 1998 2004

1989 2001 2006 As the successor to the The Game Boy The release of the Game Boy DS, the DS Lite features was the first major Advanced allowed Super a more lightwieght and hand held game Nintendo games to be played slimmer design. system. in the palm of your hand. NEWS OPINION FEATURES SPORTS MEGACON 11 Astros have big offseason Houston never takes off, still falling short in division

By Alex Barrett to handle the duties this spring, but is still allowing [email protected] at least one run per inning he has been a part of, only fanning 11 batters while allowing 18 runs in 18 "Spring Training is necessary," said Houston innings pitched. Myers carries a hefty 9.0 ERA into Astros veteran pitcher Brett Myers, after one of his the season, the highest among the Astros starting first starts. "In the off-season, you forget how to think rotation; Wandy Rodriguez isn't far behind though, and eat seeds at the same time, so you have to work with an 8.04 ERA, and isn't faring much better on getting that down first, then worry about getting against hitters so far in the year posting a WHIP of back to game-form. We're all down here to figure exactly 2 in the spring, hardly what you want from some things out, try some new things, and when the your young prospect coming off a career year. real show starts, we will all be ready." Myers has been, as usual, the most reliable option Continued on page 12

Photos by Russell Griner / Valencia Voice NEWS OPINION FEATURES SPORTS MEGACON 12

Continued from last page 11 than Myers and Rodriguez put together, one. Norris Street. has also set down 18 batters this spring, including In the field, the Astros brought in a mix of mid- The Houston Astros have had a rocky start in seven strikeouts in three innings against the Tigers level free agent middle infielders in Clint Barmes the past few MLB seasons, something they hope can last week. Happ and Nelson Figueroa are the only and Bill Hall, who will play shortstop and second be turned around in 2011. The Astros helped their rotation starters with ERA's under six, and even their base, respectively. They will be the stoppers looking pitching staff this offseason after losing long-time numbers aren't that great, both posting WHIP over to replace Geoff Blum, and can be considered a Texas ace Roy Oswalt to the Phillies last season with 1.5 each. vast improvement with the bat over Blum and both the promotion of J.A. Happ to third in the rotation, The Astros hope bullpen stud Ryan Rowland- adequate flashing the leather as well. behind veteran Brett Myers, who was also named Smith can overcome the torrid injury issues he went Over at first base, it appears that upstart Brett opening day starter, and upstart Wandy Rodriguez. through in Seattle and help get the starters to new Wallace, despite looking quite out of shape in Spring Perhaps the most promising aspect of the rotation closer Brandon Lyon, who proved a valued option in Training, will play first, while hard-hitting Carlos Lee this season would be young Bud Norris, who has had Detroit before coming to Houston. Last year's closer, will be playing in left field. Chris Johnson will be the a slight leg strain late in the spring, but as he says, fire-baller Matt Lindstrom was traded to the Rockies starting third basemen, as incumbent corner infielder "is fine." Norris hasn't gotten the run support the in the off-season with SP Felipe Paulino so Colorado Jeff Keppinger won't be ready until late April as he other pitchers have to this point, but has more wins could have a reliable set-up man to closer Houston builds his comeback from off-season foot surgery. The outfield is the lone bright spot for the Astros, With Lee joining under-rated batters and fielders in the speedy Michael Bourn and five-tooler Hunter Pence. Both Bourn and Pence have the chance to be game-changers fro the 'Stros, but even the above .300 averages they are posting in the outfield may not be enough. Look for Bourn to steal somewhere in the neighborhood of 60 bases, and don't forget he has led the league in both infield hits (53) and bunts-for-hits (28) over the past few seasons. Heading into his prime at 28 years old, he should again repeat those numbers and hopefully score somewhere just south of 100 runs. Pence has hit 25 long-flies the past three seasons consistently. He bats at around .300 every year, and is one of the mainstays of consistency in the majors. While not spectacular, he doesn't fall that short of it, and is a great steady hand to have on the team. "I just go out there and play ball," Said Pence. "The numbers will come as they always do, I just try to go The Astros have bulked up their bullpen in the off season out and have a little fun and put the team in place to win some games." division. While many think the Reds can repeat, they The Astros are losing the battle for last place by will again have to fend off perennial powerhouse a single game to the lowly Arizona Diamondbacks, St. Louis, and ever-dangerous Milwaukee to do so. posting a spring record of 11-22 so far, with only one Expect the Astros to maintain the place they held last game left to play until Opening Day on Wednesday. year, probably beating out the Cubs and Pirates again, Houston was in the muddled-middle of the NL Central but falling very short of posing a decent threat to the Photos by Russell Griner / Valencia Voice last season, with Cincinnatti surprisingly winning the The Astros will have to start swinging for the fences as they come out of spring training in second to last place. top three in their division. NEWS OPINION FEATURES SPORTS MEGACON 13

When asked the name of his restaurant, “Harrison’s fine Tigers maul Spare me the news Italian cuisine.” The event consisted of rises Houston Astros lose by Osceola campus bowls out the stress and falls, literally. Dunn took a stellar proportions, 9-1 By Rofkens Petit-Homme provide an outlet for students spill releasing his bowling ball [email protected] to network and to enhance the and watched from the ground By Bryan Levine college experience.” as the ball knocked down all [email protected] With the scent of pinewood, With spring break concluded ten pins. freshly sprayed shoes, and the and classes resuming the focus “Valencia has been here… With a little over a week left until opening thud of a 10 pound ball, an is at the finish line. ten years,” attendant Linda day the Detroit Tigers found themselves in Kis- age old bowling tradition was “This is my vacation right Hershey explained. “The most I simmee, Monday afternoon, on the winning about to commence. now.” Harrison Navoillo have ever seen here at once was end of a 9-1 ball game against the Houston As- The Osceola Campus held dedicated Valencia student, twenty people.” tros. Newcomer Phil Coke took the mound for its first intramural event for “This is my third semester As Valencia continues the Tigers and threw five strong innings allow- the year at the Orange Bowling taking five classes.” Navoillo to grow and looks for more ing just one run on four hits. His only hiccup Lanes, one of three events being is getting an A.A. in general ‘community’ for students, on the afternoon came in the first inning when held this semester, the other Dunn praised the board for its he faced eight batters but managed to surrender two being volleyball and soccer. decision to ‘raise the prestige just one run. Coke improved his Spring record “It’s our ‘bowling of the school.’ “I think it will to 3-2 as he hopes to make an impact in the stel- event,’ we offer it free to add a nice touch, the fact that lar Detroit rotation. all of our Valencia Col- we will be offering four year Not to be out done, fellow Tigers newcom- lege students,” Alan degrees.” er Victor Martinez went 3-for-3 with two dou- Dunn explained. “I am an outgoing bles and an RBI, showing the Tigers they spent Russell Griner / Valencia Voice He is the intra- person, I can talk to Detroit Tiger’s catcher, Victor Martinez, drives in a anybody, unless the their $50 Million wisely. Prospect, Andy Dirks run. mural director for who has had a tremendous spring, went 2-for-5 the Osceola cam- disrespect comes in,” Navoillo expressing with two RBIs as he tries to secure an opening Commissioner Bud Selig will be lenient when it pus, and he him- his content for the day roster spot at the MLB level. comes to first baseman Miguel Cabrera’s future. self has hosted the event. “I was at home The Astros, who have been cellar dwell- Cabrera was arrested mid-February on drunken event for two years. doing homework so I ers since losing to the White Sox in the World driving charges and has yet to be notified on Although it has came here, after I am done Series in 2005, got off to a hot start in the first whether or not he will begin the season play- one of the largest here I go back home to doing inning, but could not capitalize for more than ing for the Tigers or sitting on the bench for an student populations, less homework.” one run. Pitcher, Brett Myers, allowed five runs extended period of time. than ten students showed up. Bowling is held every on 12 hits in five innings of work. He fell to 0-2 Despite the off-season controversy, the Ti- As the games begin the reality Graphic by Falcon 1961 / Flickr semester at the Orange Bowl in the Spring and has a dismal 9.00 ERA. gers feel this is their season as they head into set in, this was truly a difficult Lanes located in Kissimmee, Following a disappointing 2010 season 2011 as the front runners to win the American game to play. Florida about five minutes and a very eventful off-season which included League Central. While the Astros on the other “I’ve broken 200, I think studies and continues in the away from the Osceola campus. big free agency singings, key losses and one hand find themselves heading in the opposite it was 267 or something like summer for his A.S. He is also As the pins fall and the balls DUI, the Detroit Tigers head into the 2011 sea- direction as they will most likely battle the Pitts- that but I am very humble.” going to be a transient student crawl, the difference between a son with great optimism. burgh Pirates for the bottom of the National Dunn then began to provide at UCF to obtain his Bachelor’s strike and spare is nothing left. The Tigers and Manager Jim Lleyland hope League Central. reasoning, “This event is to in Restaurant Management. NEWS OPINION FEATURES SPORTS MEGACON 14 Houston we have a problem, no top seeds in Final Four Busted brackets lead to an exciting tournament By karlvyn louis charles Georgetown, a Big East team had no chance [email protected] against a VCU team, which no one felt deserved to be in the tournament. A VCU team that had a The NCAA final four teams are Uconn, Ken- play-in game just to meet Georgetown two days tucky, VCU, and Butler, and it truly has been later. Against every one’s ‘better judgement,’ I ‘madness’ for the entire tournament. had VCU crushing Georgetown. good teams, like Purdue, Florida State, Kansas, The president’s bracket was busted way before Marquett over Syracuse was too easy of a pick. Pitt and Wisconsin in order to earn a spot in the the sweet 16 and after the first round of games Syracuse had beat Marquette 81-56 in the Big East Final Four. When CBS paid millions for exclusive “I predicted that the Florida Gators would go all the one of the only people in America that had a per- Tournament, just a few days earlier. It made all the rights to the Final Four, they must have had a But- way. Most of the top teams got kicked out early in the fect bracket was ...me. I saw all the games and so sense in the world that a lower ranked Marquette ler vs VCU match up in mind. rounds. Florida got beat out by Butler, so that was a called upsets as I quietly filled my bracket. My tal- would come back to beat Syracuse in the tournament. Uconn plays Kentucky in their Final Four big upset. I thought they were going to win it all. ents in bracket-ology are special but I’m willing to Every year there is one lower ranked team that Match up, but the real icing on the NCAA March share my logic with you. pulls off a few wins and go deep in the tourna- Madness cake is knowing the winner of VCU vs —Sadarrius Gray First came the Moorehead State win over Big ment. Last year that team was Butler, when I was Butler will be in the championship game. East powerhouse Louisville. I saw it coming, filling out my bracket, Butler over Pitt was an ob- As expected, I saw it all happening, duh! West Campus Student Moorehead was 25-9 coming out of the Ohio valley vious pick. Cinderellas always come back to the conference, it only ma sense they would beat a 4th ball and I just knew the shoe still fit Butler. ranked Louisville team to open the tournament. VCU and Butler both went on to beat more NEWS OPINION FEATURES SPORTS MEGACON 15 Football fans left in the dark Pulling Merlin’s beard NFL lockout replaces quality for bottom line Magic resort to growing facial hair versus playing better

By Karlvyn Louis-Charles amateurs on Sundays. It would be like having By Rofkens Petit-homme Brian Wilson, who grew out a ferocious beard, [email protected] steak on Saturday and expecting better on Sun- [email protected] dyed it black, and coined the slogan ‘fear the day morning only to wake up to a bowl of Ramen beard’ for the 2010 World Series Champions. The NFL lockout began earlier this month noodles. Sports beard. Words which can mean the The Magic have all placed this mission in and there will not be any meetings between the Would you rather not have football on Sun- start of a professional sports dynasty or a effect for some kind of bonding experiment. NFL owners and the NFL players association for days or watch a product that is less talented? very stupid idea that everyone gets blamed Why do I feel like I’m watching another epi- months. The Player’s union dissolved themselves Truth is your opinion, my opinion, and the opin- for when it fails miserably. To quote- in the sode of HBOs Hard Knocks? Players like Ja- in order to pursue a case against the owners, un- ion of millions of NFL fans across the country are famous thoroughly modified words of Kanye meer Nelson, J.J. Redick, Hedo ‘Turk’ Turkog- til the NFL draft, it’s all lawyers and legalese. also locked out. West, “If you don’t know by now, I’m talking lu, and superstar center Dwight Howard will The fans? What about us? What can we ex- about O-Town.” grow the facial hair and not cut it until their pect of all this? One thing is for sure, no football, The Orlando Magic basketball team to be season is finished. not until the rich guys decide how to split the specific the players, have apparently placed Now, as a beard holder myself there are a billions. We can expect NFL withdrawal to begin simple a mandate among fans and players. few issues that come with a beard. Issue num- long before training camp and pre-season games This task is extremely superstitious and un- ber one, can the beard sustain a healthy and are or were scheduled to begin. reasonable... growing pre-post-season beards physical lifestyle while under constant pres- We should be hoping our team lands a big for their victorious or disappointing NBA sure? For me no, a constant ‘hand’ seems to name free agent or hoping one of our rivals makes playoffs. rub itself over it consistently. a bad business decision, but instead teams have For the last few years a number of popular Issue number two, what can be done to not met with their players and are not allowed to professional sport teams have been dawning control the amount of hair if it grows too rap- consulate with any free agents. ‘the beard’ for successful playoff purposes. A idly? For me, I have a good pair of clippers The NFL draft is a month away, unfortunate- Prime example would be San Francisco Giant, with the appropriate attachments to obtain ly the draft is the last normal thing we as NFL constant even length. fans can expect for awhile. The rookies coming Issue number three, can the beard justify into the league will not have mini-camps, and the reason of its existence by being the life of off-season workouts with their new teams, ef- the party? Yes, absolutely yes. fecting how fast they pick up the playbook, and Issue number four, can ladies love cool even more important, it effects how soon we get beards? Put it this way, my goddaughters call to see the new prospects on the field. it an African jungle, complete with wildlife. There has been talk about owners going And the final issue, can a band of beards with replacement players, yes I said REPLACE- unite as one to obtain true glory and success? MENTS. The replacements would be a combina- That question will be left up to the players tion of American Football League (AFL) and Ca- and the fans that bleed blue and white. As for nadian Football League (CFL), and even holding John D. Simmons, Charlotte Observer/MCT the staff like head coach Stan Van Gundy he regional tryouts. Is that what we really want? Despite the ongoing NFL lock out, Panthers play- doesn’t care, as long as they play better. I’m not sure about amateur football on Sat- ers have worked out on their own, to stay in shape and prepare for next season. urdays and following it with even less talented NEWS OPINION FEATURES SPORTS MEGACON 16

For too long nerds have been treated as second class citizens simply based on their interests in various odd or scially strange hobbies and sources of entertainment But now is the time for the nerds of the earth to rise up and stand proudly together in support of all their quarks and weird facination Megacon was the place and we have the coverage NEWS OPINION FEATURES SPORTS MEGACON 17 Live long and prosper at MegaCon, true believers The largest anime, sci-fi, video game, and comic book convention returns with two very big differences By Jonathan Terbeche and a dealer room big enough to of the work I’ve done was well re- the City 3.’ We’ve also got a rec- guests, there are also panels to at- [email protected] fit a Boeing-747 inside. Certainly ceived. I love to see how the comic reation of the scene from ‘Back tend and take part in. Ones for cre- the hardest part for those in at- book business that I spent so many to the Future’ with Christopher ating manga or comics profession- Once a year people unite in a tendance was determining exactly years in has become so important Lloyd providing the actual voice ally, ones dedicated to table-top single place to celebrate, indulge, what to spend their precious time to so many people...and the enthu- work for Doc. And for episode 100 and card gaming, and ones show- and praise the stars and fellow doing. siasm of the fans is such a beauti- we’ve got more action than your casing trends in cosplay (dressing fans of their favorite hobbies. With official sponsors, Funi- ful thing, that I just keep wanting TV can handle!” up and taking on the persona of a MegaCon, Florida’s largest comic mation Entertainment, Students of to come back. I don’t have that Other than the numerous continued on page 18 convention, took place this week- the Unusual, and many more, this much time, but whenever I can I end, March 25-27, in the Orange year’s convention was literally love coming here. I love talking County Convention Center, to the larger than ever. Not only does the with people like you, and I love joy of nerds everywhere. Even bulk of the convention, the dealer seeing how interested you are. In those living over seas made the room, take place in the main Hall today’s world, with so many rot- trip to Orlando for a weekend of D of the convention center, but the Michelle Normand as Harley Quinn ten things taking place, it’s nice pure nerd indulgence. large auditorium in Hall F, and and Sofie Biglari as Poison Ivy. to know there’s something that Like every year, the con in- every room in between, was also can bring people together to enjoy to the fact that two very special cluded a plethora of panels and used this year. talking about and dealing with. guests, the likes of which Mega- costume contests, a dance party, This was in large part due Some people take vacations, I go Con had not seen before, were in to comic book conventions.” attendance this year: comic book Many comic book artists were legend, Stan Lee, and original cap- also present doing custom ink- tain of the USS Enterprise, William ings and signings. Other guests Shatner. included actors Kevin Sorbo, John They had panels and signings Schneider, Doug Jones, Vic Mig- that were available to everyone, nogna and many more. One of the but advanced seating and place- other popular names in attendance ment, and photographs were for was Matthew Senreich, producer VIP ticket holders only. Much more for the Adult Swim show, “Robot people were in attendance than Chicken.” During his panel he previous years, and this year’s made an impromptu phone call special guests were undoubtedly to “Robot Chicken” creator, fel- the reason. low producer, and nerd icon, Seth After being asked what com- Green. ing to conventions meant to him, When asked for a preview on Stan Lee said, “It means a lot to the next season Seth said, “Well me. Seeing the enthusiasm from Though the movie just came out this weekend, many girls cosplayed as Photos by Jonathan Terbeche / Valenica Voice we’re doing a trailer for ‘Sex and The Dealer room in Hall D is filled with countless toys for collectors to buy. some of the fans means that some the main characters from “Sucker Punch.” Baby Doll was most popular. NEWS OPINION FEATURES SPORTS MEGACON 18 Oddballs coming together Return of For many, MegaCon means a lot more than dressing up MegaCon By Victor Ocasio For many in attendance the whole of MegaCon Continued from page 17 [email protected] is just about the opportunity to meet up with old friends or make new ones with similar interests in the character from anime, gaming, comics, etc.) This past weekend, the Orange County many genres of entertainment that the convention Panels may be held all weekend, but the offi- Convention Center was host to MegaCon, one of the tailors itself toward. cial MegaCon cosplay contest, presented by An- largest comic, anime, movie, television and gaming Cosplay, or costume play, is a form of performance ime Sushi, is held only once a year, on Saturday. conventions in the the country, and after spending art in which individuals dress to represent a specific Since most of the entrants dress up as characters the weekend running around and talking to so many character or idea from various Japanese cartoons, from anime, many have Japanese names and are individuals in attendance, I learned a great deal on comics and video games; this plays a huge part in not the easiest to pronounce, making the host’s what the event is all about. the overall feel of the weekends events. role vital to the success of the show. Walking along the sidewalks of International “For me, MegaCon is all about the costumes and With last year’s show going awry due to a Drive this weekend, it was completely evident even all the random happy people taking pictures of us,” poor choice of host, this year’s had little room to to someone not in the know that MegaCon was said cosplayer Otto Paras. fail. Thankfully, the host was well-versed, the en- in town. With floods of comic, anime and movie But for many, MegaCon is about something trants were unique, and the skits were entertain- characters surrounding almost every business along much greater and far more personal, and it gives ing. Even the opening of the show, the children’s the small stretch of road, attendee dedication was them the opportunity to really dig inside themselves portion, had great costumes, making this year’s palpable. and show a part of their personality that under the show one of the best. People from all over the country filled the normal standards of everyday life would make them As soon as the cosplay show ends, the line for convention center dressed from head to toe in strange or unaccepted. the other traditional Saturday event, the cyberia costumes and gear both recognizable and strange “I just like coming here and being given the dance party, begins. Essentially a rave, what makes just for the opportunity to see their favorite stars, opportunity to be yourself. You know, be a nerd,” this dance so special is the fact that a large number compete in a wide variety of gaming events and said MegaCon regular Mike Sanchez. of those dancing, are the very same who cosplayed. get their hands on lowed priced merchandise from Although the point of the convention is the Where else are you going to see a giant panda twirl- vendors. same as any other business venture, what it does ing glow sticks and dancing past midnight? as a byproduct for so many fans of the event is that By the time Sunday comes around, most of it brings such a diverse group of people together the excitement of the convention is replaced with Jonathan Terbeche / Valencia Voice from every walk of life and background all to same exhaustion. This makes Sunday the best day to Comic book legend Stan Lee makes an appearance. place to express their love of a multitude of creative relax, walk around the dealer room, and make mediums. some good, discounted purchases from vendors It’s a gathering of like-minded people, all excit- As strange as some of the activities that go on wanting to get rid of their products. ed about celebrating a culture that defines who during MegaCon may seem, and be assured that When asked about why she attends Mega- they really are. At MegaCon you will find awe- many of them are, the overall message of it is far Con, Valencia student, Jack Howlett, dressed up some anime, collectible comics, crazy costumes, more basic than the confusingly large event might as X-Men’s Phoenix said, “I like all the hot co- friendly faces, grand guests, great games, perti- suggest. Acceptance and having a great time. splay guys. I get the chance to make a costume nent panels, sweet snacks, and a community of “It’s about acting silly without getting made fun and people here appreciate the work.” people who just want to have fun, even if they Photo By Jon Terbeche / Valencia Voice of for it,” said attendee John Thompson. What is MegaCon to the unknowing person? smell bad. MegaCon is fun! Pokemon fans embrace their wildside.