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^ —7- »p "TT T" "T^ T~ | ; ^, TT \ Ticket in Survival faster Bunny Town music from Uncovered Caberet the subways Features page 10 12 See Features page 10 The bserver April 17, 1998 THE STUDENT VOICE OF FORDHAM COLLEGE AT LINCOLN CENTER VOLUME XVI, issue 15 Excel Student Dies Over Mirabella, Others Speak Spring Break On What Women Want By Jacqueline Acevedo ing the Student Programming Board. gURL Harriet Lyons, Special Sections In actuality, this crowd—consisting of Editor of Daily News and professor Steven Dachniewicz, an Excel stu- both FCLC students and media indus- of "The H^tory & Mission of dent who majored in Political Science, try professionals—was waiting to Women's Magazines", moderated died during Spring Break. The cause of participate in the forum "Magazines; the discussion. his death is not yet known. He was 40 What Do Women Want?" and to hear . Debate was sparked and generation and would have graduated this year. Grace Mirabella three generations of magazine editors gaps were revealed tiy many of Lyon's After graduating from high school, By Jane McGonigal give their opinion on the subject • questions* "What connotation does tHe Dachniewicz entered the Navy, from Co-sponsored -by the Hearst term "girt" have in the current dis- which he was later honorably dis- Nearly one hundred and fifty people Media-into-the-Classroom series at course of magazines?" she posed to the charged. Afterwards, he started to had crammed into the first floor lounge Fordham University and the Center panel. Mirabella, the oldest member of work for the Port Authority Transit of the Residence Hall^by 6:00 RM. on for Communications, the debate was the panel, responded, "It is considered Hudson Corporation (PATH) as a sig- Thursday April 2. Those who could not part of this semester's FCLC course by my generation to be a derogatory nal electrician. find an empty chair plunked them- "The History & Mission of Women's term," while Stone contributed, In Fall 1992, while still working for selves down on the floor; perched on Magazines." The panel of guest speak- "Women have taken ownership of the PATH, Dachniewicz became a part the windowsill, or leaned against the ers consisted of Grace Mirabella, word and transformed it to be more time student at Fordham. "He returned wall, all determined to be a part of the former Editor of Vogue and Founder positive." When Stone spoke of the to school because he thought he want- evening's excitement. What FCLC of Mirabella; Robin Stone, Deputy Spice Girls as an example of "girl" ed to do more," said Cira Vernazza, event could attract such a crowd? If Editor of Essence; Valerie Monroe, power in the media, she was greeted Assistant Dean of FCLC. "In his appli- you answered "The C.SA and the Consulting Editor of Parenting; by a few moans and jeers from the cation he indicated that he wanted a RAs go for the Full Monty," you're and Rebecca Odes, Co-Founder & audience. Later during the audience law degree to become an advocate and wrong—but you should consider join- Creative Director of the online zine, Q-and-A portion of continued on pg. 2 have a practice." " One of the courses Dachniewicz was taking was Civil Rights with professor Tom DeLuca, the Associate Chair of USG Elections Feature New Ideas, A New Party Political Science. "It was a shock to me," News Analysis by Adam Goldstein as the politics expressed on the posters. ly (and in the Christmas issue of The DeLuca said. "I felt a great sense of loss. Sanchez was the campaign manager for Observer) stated that he didn't feel He was a great student." For the second time in FCLC history, last year's START party—the party that the Restructuring issue, in the "He was intelligent..." said Susan the United Student Government (USG) Reform Fordham defeated. Van Buren, stage it existed, was an important one Beck, Associate Professor of Political elections will feature two parties with on the other hand, never won a general for students to fight against. Van Science. "He was curious and went active campaigns. The election will be election of the student body for the Vice Buren, on the other hand, helped to the extra mile." held in the Lowenstein Plaza on Presidential seat, and was granted it by organize the protest that brought 350 During his time at Fordham, Tuesday, April 21 and Wednesday, April the (Reform Fordham lead) USG after students and faculty out of classes and Dachniewicz suffered from chronic 22, where students can walk up and vote. then-Vice President Joe Fersedi trans- on to the plaza to oppose the plan. neck and back pain. According to Last year, the Reform Fordham party ferred to another school. The result? Half of the plan was imple- Beck, even though he went through won by a landslide, marking the largest Both candidates are also very busy, as mented, phasing out EXCEL but sparing physical therapy and took pain med- victory in FCLC history. This year, both are active in their USG roles. In FCLC. The lesson we can apply to the ication, the pains never left. Kenneth Sanchez, FCLC *99, Student fact, many of the items on the two cam- current parties, however, is that Van "Sometimes he had a lot of pain, some- Programming Board (SPB) President paign platforms look similar—e.g., Buren's positions tend to be more adver- times it was less, but it was always and current USG Junior Senator, is run- extending computer lab hours, improv- sarial and idealistic while Sanchez tends there," she said. ning as the presidential candidate of the ing the guest policy, and addressing to look for what can realistically be done "I knew he had severe injuries and new Progressive Party, hoping to dis- scheduling issues—because both given a situation. The candidates are chronic pain and yet he still came and lodge control of USG from Reform Sanchez and Van Buren have been looking at the same horizon—helping did well," Vernazza said. "That was the Fordham's fingertips. involved in working for these issues the student body—but are using very dif- thing that amazed me." Standing between Sanchez and the while serving in their current USG roles. ferent methods of travel to approach it A tentative date for a mass in his presidency is Reform Fordham candi- The differences in the party were The presidential candidates alone do memory has been set for April 21 at date Zak Van Buren, one of the founding most evident in the actions of the pres- not make up their parties, however, and 12:30 PM in the second floor chapel. members of the Reform Fordham party idential candidates last semester, when to help distinguish one from the other, Robert Grimes, SJ, Dean of FCLC and current USG Vice President elections were the last thing on any- The Observer has created profiles of the has asked that Dachniewicz receive The internal politics of the campaign one's mind and the Restructuring pro- two leading parties: The Progressive his degree posthumously this May. • are as complex—if not more complex— posal was the first Sanchez very open- Party and Reform Fordham. • News April 17, 1998
Crime Blotter Harassing Phone Calls Rise Sharply By Bonnie Class By Jacqueline Acevedo the university, the phone extension. In A concern raised by Fordham offi- Saturday, March 28,11:30 some cases, the calls were from stu- cials is that students spend too long on Residence Hall — A former boyfriend Fordham has had a history of prank dents who were playing pranks. the phones with the prank callers. ami nonresident of a student phone calls to students in the resi- "We issue a garge letter to the stu- According to Gray, he has red reports attempted to gain access to the dence hall. In 1997, however, the inci- dent caller which indicates the nature of students staying on the line for up to Residence HaJJ.The student asked dents of aggravated harassment of the phone call," said Gray. The 40 minutes before realizing the real another resident whom be dfd not - reported were 400% of what they were charge letter allows the students to intention of the caller. "Students are fcnow,to sign him In. When security - in 1996 (rising from eight in 1996 to 32 schedule for a hearing date in which trusting people," Gray said." responded to the situation the police in 1997), according to John Carroll, they will present their story. Even "They'll get a thrill just having the ' were notified and He was arrested for Director of Security at Fordham.. though the call might have been made conversation," Carroll said. "They're trespassing. According to Carroll, "aggravated by one student, everyone in that room sick puppies. If anybody calls you that harassment (involves] a person with will be held responsible. "All the stu- you don't know, just hang up." Tuesday, March 51,11:20 p.m,, the intent to harass, annoy, threaten or dents assigned to the room are "Why answer .any kind of survey Residence Hall —A resident student alarm another person and who com- responsible for their phones, what over the phone?" asked Adair. Even if got involved in a dispute with her municates by mechanical or electronic they're doing, or whom they let in the students are aware that the person on boyfriend. Security as well as the means, telephone, or mail in a manner building. The University will hold the other line is a stranger, however, Resident Director responded the likely to cause an annoyance or them responsible," he said. the fact that he seems friendly or the nbn resident was Issued a banning alarm." On some occasions, however, the promise of an award will keep the stu- notice from the Residence Half. Enough though both male and calls came from somewhere outside of dent on the line. "He said I would win female students are receiving aggra- Fordham. According to Carroll, some a gift certificate to Tiffany and Thursday. April % 7:00 p,m,, vated harassment phone calls, most of of the students' \yho reported the Company," said Pauley. According to Computer lab ~~A dispute feetweeh , the reports were made by females. aggravated harassment phone calls Payley, the mentioning of the certifi- • two students was reported,The $tu* "There is a fair balance, between both," said that, at firs'i0
continued from front ^ pro. to the moderator's question, "Why are perpetuated by someone who claims to world-renown feminist, author and page nirabella gram, the there no 'real bodies' in women's mag- be fighting sexism." activist and co-founder of Ms. maga- Spice Girls were brought up again. azines?", Mirabella said quite frankly: The audience seemed to enjoy the zine. Ultimately, neither Brown Odes, the youngest member of the "Normal people on the cover of maga- event, applauding enthusiastically at its nor Steinem were able to attend the panel, tackled the topic: "I have a lot of zines bothers me. They're dreadfully conclusion and eagerly lining up to event "Gloria is mourning the death of issues with the Spice Girls. They've uninteresting and I just don't care." meet the panelists. Odes seemed to hit a dear friend," a spokesperson for probably done just as much harm to Odes, on the other hand, said sim- a particular note with those in atten- the Center for Communications girls as they have done good." ply, That"s pathetic." The majority of dance. Kelly Alfieri, Creative Director explained to the audience. "Helen is in Mirabella seemed at a loss to comment the audience seemed in agreement, as of the alternative girls' Web site Minx, Bosnia, launching the Bosnia version on the phenomenon' and merely many heads nodded and a murmur of said, "I came to hear Rebecca Odes. of Cosmopolitan—if you can imagine observed the others, glasses hanging "yes" rose up from the crowd. We're in the same field, so I was inter- that!" from mouth, with a look of curious Odes was attacked later in the ested in what she would contribute to Some members of the audience amusement at the passionate response evening, however, by Adam Goldstein, the discussion." Alfieri is now working were greatly disappointed by the fail- of the audience and her fellow panelists FCLC '99, for perpetuating girls' obses- on a new site, Viva, by women but for a ure of Steinem and Brown to appear. "I to the singing group. sions with their bodies by dedicating a general audience. "I was hoping to get went to see Gloria Steinem. She wasn't The magazine editors also consid- regular column to analyzing girls' some ideas tonight to inform our new there, so I left," said Justin Brennan, ered the influence of advertisers on breasts. "Isn't your Web site's regular project, and I definitely did." FCLC '01. determining the content of women's feature The Boob Files' the ultimate Gail Glidewell, FCLC *99 and a mem- "I'm really upset that I didn't get to magazines, the role alternative online victory for sexism?" he asked her, caus- ber of the "History and Mission of hear Helen Gurley Brown. Most peo- zines play in changing the way ing quite a stir in the audience by being Women's Magazines" class said, "It ple were like, 'Oh my God, Gloria women's magazines are written, and the only person to seriously challenge was very informative. I'm not interest- Steinem! But I'm like, 'Helen Brown is the need for women's magazines to be any of the panelists. Odes countered ed in the Internet, so I didn't think I'd going to be here!' I'm very disappoint- less condescending to their readers. that young girls are already obsessed care about what Rebecca Odes had to ed about that," said Daniel Parker, The most heated discussion, however, with their breasts and that gURL is say, but she was a good speaker, very FCLC '01. After reflecting briefly, he was over magazine's representation of merely acknowledging that fact Later, conversational, very young, very hip." adds, "It's okay, though. I really, really idealized beauty and thinness. Goldstein said to the Observer, "If Originally, the "Magazines: What Do enjoyed hearing Grace Mirabella. "I think that the most interesting they're trying to empower people, they Women Want?" forum was advertised She's a legend herself." debate tonight occurred on the subject shouldn't focus on bodies. A preoccu- as a showdown between Helen Gurley "All in all, I thought it was very of fantasy and how we don't see realis- pation with someone's body is just a Brown, legendary Editor-in-Chief of lively, very informed, and very sharp," tic images of women in magazines," way to divert them from doing any* Cosmopolitan and author of Sex and said Lyons.! said Lyons in retrospect. Responding thing useful, and is, in this case, sexism the Single Girl, and Gloria Steinem, April 17.1998 News RHA Trying To Increase Authority By Adam Goldstein By Gina Salamone Basically all we do is talk to the appro- some kind of role in selecting them, priate people about what we would and right now we don't have any," said The agony of victory and the joy of The Residence Hall Association want. We have no say in it." Zapata. Currently, it is Covello, Waite, defeat No, I'm not getting my wires (RHA) is currently seeking increased Zapata believes that the RHA's and past RAs and Freshman Mentors crossed.That's why we like game student representation in the process- increased participation in Residence who decide who gets selected for shows, isn't it? We don't want to see es of the Residence Hall. On Friday, Hall policies would lead to improved these positions. According to Zapata, anyone win. We just want to see peo- April 3, RHA President Ron Zapata, resident representation. "I've talked to Covello explained that there is no for- ple lose. We can admit it, now, can't FCLC '00 met with Margery Covello, alot of residents and they've said mal procedure in selecting RAs and we? It's just you and me right now. Director of Residential Life to discuss 'Exactly what does RHA do?' I tell Freshman Mentors. No individual Doesn't it feel really good to watch the possibility of expanding interactiv- them "We're the student government votes are calculated, rather there is a someone who respects Spam as a ity between the Residential Life Office for Residents.' Then they ask, 'How do consensus among everyone involved. food type have their intellect abused and RHA. you represent us?' and I can't say Zapata said, "Margery said that she's on television? Prior to the meeting, Zapata for- much to them." said Zapata "Thafs, modifying the selection process, and Good news: it feels just as good to warded a letter outlining RHA's inten- what I'm trying to change. I want RHA that she's definitely willing to comply watch it happen online. tions to Covello. Copies were also sent to have more say in a lot of what goes in having at least one person in RHA NetWits — http://netwits.msn.com to Richard Wake, Assistant Director of on in the Res Hall." on that committee to interview and As the Internet's first real game Residential life, Mary Jane Conlon, The three main issues Zapata and voice out their opinion. So there is show, Micro$oft's NetWits deserved Dean of Student Activities, and Jeffrey Covello discussed at the meeting were some progress going on." to be mentioned. As a product of Gray, Vice President of Student RHA participation in selecting Concerning disciplinary hearings Micrb$oft, that's all it's getting. If, out Affairs, all which play a role in the Resident Assistants (RAs), Resident for residents, Zapata feels that RHA of 200 billion dollars, they can't activities of the Residence Hall. Directors (RDs), and Freshman involvement in this process would afford to promote it, I don't See why The goal of the RHA is to increase Mentors, RHA playing a role in disci- insure a fair trial for the* accused. As I shbuld spend the ink. (Check it out their involvement in the procedures plinary hearings for residents, and current procedures stand, when a resi- anyway.) that affect residents at Lincoln Center. RHA participating in Residence Hall dent has allegedly violated residence CNNfn's Final Bell — According to Zapata, the RHA cur- policy changes. hall policies, the RA who discovers the http://www.sandbox.net/finalbell/ rently holds no power in issues con- RAs, RDs, and Freshman Mentors illegal activity writes a report and gives I don't particularly like business, but I cerning residents. Zapata said "We are the main, contacts between resi- it to an RD. The RD then meets with do like CDs, gift certificates, scan- have no votes in anything. We're not at dents and Residential Life. "If they are the accused resident and sets the disci- ners, and laptop computers, which all connected with Res Life and Res going to be representing Res Life and pline. Zapata said, "RDs and RAs work are a handful of the prizes you can life does everything official that has helping students for the whole year, together and have a friendly atmos- win if you can predict the market on to do with the. Residence Hall. then I think residents should have phere. If an RD sees a report by an RA a regular basis. Life is a cabaret, old that they are already acquaintances chum. with, they may be somewhat biased Jeopardy! Online — http://www.sta- IMAGINE THE FUTURE toward that RAs way of thinking." RHA tionjony.com/jeopardy/ seeks to have some form of feedback If you like find the television show a WITH ENFORCEABLE WORLD LAW into these hearings. In the meeting, no challenge, you'll probably have an sign of altering the current procedure easier time of things here. The ques- was evident by Residential life offi- tions are so easy that if you miss any I lob a I Solutions for Global Problems - Weapons of Mass Destruction cials. "It seemed that they are very con- it'd better be because you got up to fident in the RDs capability to judge go to the bathroom and time ran Environmental Pollution - Ethnic Cleansing - Terrorism these hearings and give the proper dis- out On the other hand, mentally cipline," said Zapata. • beating the stuffing out of people JOIN RHA also seeks to be notified and you consider to be inferior life forms have a say in changes in Residence can be quite satisfying, and it's a pop- Professor Hen Ferencz, Nuremberg War Crimes Prosecutor Hall policies. Zapata said, "Anytime ular enough web site that getting there are any policies passed, at least your name up in lights can be some- thing you can call your mother to . and for this semester, we haven't been consulted when policies are changed." see (as if you didn't spend too much time on the phone with your mother William R. Pace -Convener of International Court Qualition Recent policy changes include halo- gen lamps, candles, loft beds, and out- already). side furniture in the dorms. "Although In case these three opportunities discussing • ' minor issues, they are inconveniences to make others feel Inferior don't in the' lives of residents. Policies like satisfy your emotional needs, remem- Global Governance/The International Criminal Court that should not be passed without any ber, you can always go to the com- resident input," said Zapata. puter lab and play there, which will Thursday, April 3(Hh — 6:00p.m. - 8:00p.m. RHA plans to continue to seek fur- not only make the people you're ther involvement in the happenings of beating feel like garbage but will World Federalist Association of Greater New York the Residence Hall. "We're looking for show everyone else in the room just 777 UN Plaza, (-Nth Street & First Avenue) more administrative duties that we how savvy you are—particularly If New York, New York 10017 can get our organization into. you remember to have The Residents would like some kind of say Observer open to this column. Don't disappoint me.Tell me about your Hear the speeches - Join the Discussion in whaf s going on in Res Hall politics and that's what RHA is trying to get exploits at [email protected] accomplished. Hopefully it will be pus.mci.net, Good luck, turfiri. accomplished," said Zapata. • News April I7.I9VB
By Bonnie Gass whenever we want which would elimi- By Jessica Keymer extending the hours of the library and nate the cast of flyers", Hodulik said. computer labs "much further." "There What do you have when you put "All you would have to do is click a "No Frills", the title of the column in are a lot of facilities issues and admin- together a politician and a computer button. These advantages do not exist the observer written by Zak Van istrative issues that we want to deal whiz? You get the two founders of the now—in any shape—at Fordham." Buren, seems to sum up not only his with. For the most part, I think that Progressive Party, a new party run- At the core of information sciences, personality, but also the platform of with the continued cohesive student ning an executive board ticket in however, is information, and the "Reform Fordham," the incumbent empowerment both within the elected FCLC's United Student Government Progressives places a premium on party in the upcoming United Student body within the USG and in the voting (USG) elections. keeping the student body informed. Government (USG) elections at FCLC. student body, most or all of the Ken Sanchez, FCLC '99, is current- "No one knows they can march in the Van Buren currently serves the USG demands of the students will be ly Student Programming Board (SPB) St Patrick's Day parade just because Vice President and is Reform addressed and all of the needs of the president and Junior Senator to USG, they are a Fordham student," said Fordham's candidate for USG presi- students that arise will be addressed," and is running for USG President. Sanchez, citing an example. dent in the current election. Also run- said Van Buren. The other founding member is Nick If elected, the Progressive Party Hodulik, FCLC '00, who is running for also plans to improve the guest policy. Vice President Hodulik, a Computer "We are the only University in a major Science major, was just recently elect- U.S. city to have [an overnight] resi- ed as Vice President of the Residence dential guest policy," Hodulik said. | JE*$£titive Board Candidates: Last year, the Reform Hall Association (RHA). The two "We need to look at why this is the Fordham party won the other party members running for case. Although it is important to have -Vice President:Anna Meresidis USG election by a land- executive board -Secretary: Helen Ledwltcb slide with the greatest positions, who Executive Board Candidates: ..>.*. -" Treasurer: Sabrina Harris voter turnout in FCLC his- joined after the rPresMentjKw Sancbe* ' ,:>*,- Current Vice President Van Buren tries not only to tory. This year, Van Buren Progressive AcVtee President Nick Hodullk ' , wirt the presidential seat for his party but the. rest has frequently pointed to Party's cam- **$6cretary: David Hlbbs ' : - - of the senate fay omhtng or endorsing candidates", the successes of the paigning started, ' TneastfrenAtex <3arcte for Reform Fordham party are David Hibbs -, Current Junior Senator and Student Programrofni Board ' ' '' this past year and claims, if for secretary and , president Ken Sanchez drives the Progressive Party's tauten ning with him on Reform Fordham's elected, he will continue along that Alex Garcia for executive board ticket are Anna same path in the coming year. "Over treasurer. Meresidis, currently USG sophomore this last year the USG has become the senator, for Vice President; Helen most powerful, productive, and by far Ledwith, currently USG sophomore the most respected USG that any of The Progressive Party senator, for Secretary; and Sabrina the professors I'd talked to had seen in Harris, freshman Executive Board a very long time;" said Van Buren. Last year was the first two-party security measures, there is a way to member of Molimo, for Treasurer. "(Reform Fordham] laid out what we election FCLC had, and the system compromise between meeting the Van Buren, who says he will proba- wanted to do and what had to be done has carried over into this year. needs of students and administration." bly become an African/African and we let students decide. The stu- (Sanchez was the campaign manager Another important issue they plan American studies major, has an inter- dents made the correct choice and I for last year's START party.) The to tackle is increasing the student rep- est in politics that has taken around the don't think we let them down. Progressive party, However, is new to resentation on the Faculty Evaluation globe and back again to his hometown Everything you need to know is in the this election, while Reform Fordham Committee. "If s important for student of New York City. "I've traveled the actions. If you never listened to a word has one successful election under its Input to be there," said Sanchez. continent [of Africa] extensively see- either party has said and just looked at belt. The Progressives see their posi- "Students bring a different perspec- ing, for example, Ghana, Burkina Faso, what each group has done, there would tion, however, not as one of challeng- tive that helps build a trust and a Somalia, and Kenya. IVe also worked be no comparison. Our party has ing an incumbent party but as one of working partnership with the adminis- for the-United Nations ^nd other, non- worked for the students on every major presenting a new ideology. tration. There's a common goal." governmental, organizations". issue and has gotten things done." " Some people from Reform According to Sanchez, the group also ' Van Buren's political experiences When asked to describe Reform Fordham have come back," said hopes to foster a sense of community also stretch extensively into Fordham Fordham's style, Van Buren said, "It's Sanchez. "They have formulated the by helping to unify the Residence Hall politics. Van Buren was an executive a delicate balance between meeting same party. We decided there's a bet- Association (RHA) and the Commuter board member of the Residence Hall the needs of the students and con- ter approach." Sanchfez continued, Student Association (CSA). "I know Association (RHA) as well as one of its frontation. I myself have stood in front "Last year the big issue was restruc- what commuters go through. I was founding members. of this campus and gave the com- turing. I think its dead now and I think one," said Sanchez. If re-elected, Reform Fordham has mencement speech for [Students the students think it's dead too. We One issue near to the hearts of both many issues "at every level" of the Against Restructuring]^ protest and at are worried about the students' needs. commuters and residents is changing University they plan to address. The the same time have been asked to walk Their needs are not: being met." the new block schedule, and the issue of grade inflation, for example, at the groundbreaking ceremony for In contrast to Reform Fordham's Progressives plan on working toward has a high priority for Reform the Walsh Library." style of pushing the envelope (see the a "more reasonable" block schedule, Fordham. "The faculty has felt that If Van Buren's methodology sounds article on Reform Fordham in this according to Sanchez, who indicated they need to grade more difficultly simplistic, that's because it is. His "no issue), the Progressives say that their that there are fewer classes offered without really changing the standard frills" attitude towards these issues is is style to work to make change? but for commuters in the afternoon. of education. We think that's essential- exactly what allows him to get the job at the same time keeping the goals "They have a class in the morning and ly wrong," Van Buren said. The future done. When talking with theater stu- realistic. According to Hodulik, the they have to linger around until they of restructuring also ranks highly on dents, Van Buren asked them what Progressive party is seeking to dra- have a later class," said Sanchez. Reform Fordham's agenda. "We'll be one thing would make them the happi- matically improve Fordham's techno- With all of their proposed changes incredibly active in continuing to est. "They said it was heat Heat in the logical capabilities, including getting the candidates for President and. Vice inform students in regard to restruc- spaces they have to work in. Those full Internet capability into every President seem dedicated and ready turing and take part in the are the tangibles, the bread-and-butter apartment in the residence hall. The for the responsibility. "I do not intend decision-making on how restructuring issues that have to be done. If your party plans to create a central Web to be president of SPB next year if is going to be implemented," he said. student body needs heat, you get site that will coordinate all activities elected. I will devote all of my time to Reform Fordham is also working them heat. It's not complicated." for all clubs, according to Hodulik. this," said Sanchez. • towards making faculty evaluation Needless to say, the theater depart- ...JJM&.can throw up a student survey forms fully accessible to students and ment got their heat, • April 17,1998 Editorial
The Observer
Editor-in-Chief Cara Lynn Shultz Rock the Vote, Don't Graphics Editor Kara Scanned Managing Editor Victoria Mott News Editor Adam Goldstein Just Shake it a Little ssistant NewsEditor Bonnie Gass Commentary Editor Ron Zapata United Student Government in. Choosing not to vote is the several hundreds of stu- Arts Editor Erika Russo (USG) elections are not always done out of lazi- dents pay to the various Features Editor Michele J.Thomas approaching quickly, and ness or apathy, no matter clubs. The student body does Photography Editor Sandy Tedt the elder generation loves how hard the elder genera- not have a choice in which Business Manager Jonathan Valenti nothing so well as to self- tions try to associate not events are funded {for exam- Graphic Designers Cynthia Hahn righteously proclaim that voting with those charac- ple, this year, an increase Shirali Patel KaterinaVenetls We All Must Vote. It's vir- teristics. One simply can- of multiple thousands of tually a mantra—a particu- not express utter disgust dollars went to fund new, o Faculty Adviser °r- Elizabeth Stone larly ironic one, consid- well enough -by checking the administration-run Student Graphics Advisor Krystina J. Mankowski ering that most of the peo- box that represents the Activities Office programs) ple who are begging and lesser of two evils. or which events are cut (for pleading with us to work The older generations' example, this year, multi- within the system are the condemnation of anyone who ple thousands of dollars Observer Board of Advisors ones who, in 'their teenage chooses not to vote in a were removed from the stu- Julie Farin, Promotion Director, PR Ntwiwirc; Anthony years, took a sign in one system that they feel is dent-run Student Giglio. Editor (or Beer Connoisseur. Food Critic for New hand and marijuana in the fundamentally, , wrong has a Programming Board's bud- Jersey Month!/; Oarisel Gonzalez, Reporter. Gonnen Suburban Sean Gallagher, Production Editor, Scholastic. other and tried so hard to bizarre mirror image in the get) . The. decision on which Lynette Harrison, Advertisinj Director. W Motazlnr. Melissa work outside of it. way student activities events are funded—with your Harts. TV Producer.WBIS, Cassandra Hayes, Careers Editor. Mock Enterprise;Vivian Lake.Reporter,Jersey loumah Denise What the baby boomers (and money is allocated at money—and which are not is Hohka,Attorney. Mina Landriscina, Business Reporter. Fordham. Student mon'ey is made by twelve ^people, five fVa«hkeepsJeJc«nwl; Brian McDonald.Fredance Writer; lori earlier) ,seem to forget when MajewsUEnteruinment Editor, Teen People; Fran Brancatelli they reach the age of 45 is collected into a fund. Then, of whom belong to another Marino.Editor, Peterson's Guides. Inc.; Gary RoserO/ice that not voting itself is a a group of seven students generation and the other President. IB Upman Publicity strong political statement. (including the USG presi- seven of whom got the right When a system offers no dent, Vice President, and to contribute to the deci- option that allows you to Treasurer) and five admin- sion either directly or express yourself, then you istrators (including the indirectly based on who stu- All members of the Fordham community are 1 can not ethically choose an Dean of Students) sit down dents voted for during the welcome to submit letters to the editor of The option you have no interest and allocate the money that USG elections. , Observer, the Independent student newspaper of The importance of voting, Fordham College at Lincoln Center, New York, NY. at least in these USG elec- Address all letters to the editor to: tions, isn't to let "your Letters to the Editor voice b.e heard," as the The Fordham Observer elder generations say U3West60thStRoom408 because nobody is listening New York. NY 10023 §• # # to your voice. Nobody is Letters co the editor may also be submitted via asking you to pick what you campus mail and should be adresscd to: The ¥ V want to see happen in your Observer, Rm.. 408. Lowenstein, college. All you need to do is check a box and choose your master for the next; year. Indeed, the way in The Observer is the independent, which our " generation has not-for-profit publication of Fordham been socialized to ijee vot- I'niversily, Fordham College at Lincoln Center, New York, New 'slick and "a very ing as a cherished method of quirky clever York. The opinions expressed in The entertain- whodunit" bringing about change in Observer, including, but not limited ment" facft serves to uphold, in to, those in articles, letters, editori- "Walken gives this case, a voting system als, graphics, photographs, head- "a brilliant, a silky, hypnotic that removes the real choice lines and stibheadlines, and car- twisting performance" from the students. toons, arc those of the individual con- plot" At the same time, the best tributor and/or editor and do not way to 'change the system necessarily reflect the views of the is, at this point, to elect Editorial Board or Fordham University. No part of The Observer those who feel that stu- may be reproduced without the dents, not committees, know expressed, written consent of The what students want. Before Observer Editorial Board, letters to It's all or noihlny.f \\ you vote in this election, the editor and all general inquiries ihln ask those who are running should be addressed to: The JOBl[««»»..«—.«.»»»MHBCIIIIMIY JMMTfBMIcn Mm* JHUmtlllt RirkaUliMcutnHmMiiinuiiii whether or not they believe Observer Editorial Board, Fordham that students should take a College at Lincoln Center, 113 West •ulcldthlngi.com liOlh Street, Room '108, New York, SKf CIH)UlUIHirtft«mtlfc.UI*tlbiinil role, via a survey, in which activities are fund- New York 1OQ23 or faxed lo CM 2) STARTS FRIDAY,c APRIL 17™ ed-and consider carefully ii:sii-7XI}). I'hone: (212) (Mi- 'ssaasr cHi i3?r<»As liOlfi/liOHi. ._ ,YiMr 3RD AVf NUB t HIM STKItT J1RDII BIT. 7TH1ITH AVIS. MOWMUtAtiftHlfT whether you will vote for irr-xoo K*C« mt Htcmt mi AND AT A THEATRE NEAR YOU m-mimx that individual based on his or her response.• Commentar April 17,1998
By Brigitte Stec Kentucky were not allowed to meet in Reh~someohe mentions classrooms.' This forced the group to the word "trend", most meet in the lobby of the school to par- people think about ticipate in group prayer before school music, clothing, body began. Some say that this factor made W decorations, or hair many students sitting ducks for the styles. However, there is a new trend December 1,1997 disaster. It was on within today's society. Jt seems as this day that Michael Carneal, a four- though Barbie and G.I joe have teen-year-old freshman at Heath High become a thing of the past for chil- School, took aim with a .22 caliber dren, who are opting for a form of semi-automatic handgun that he had entertainment with a deadly price. stolen from a neighbor's house, and Age is not a limit. For some of us, this wreaked havoc on the group of thirty- comes as no surprise; Jonesboro, five students. Three students were Arkansas, was not the first tragedy. killed and five were wounded. Carneal Over the past couple of years, there was convicted on three counts of mur- have been other horrific tales of vio- der, five counts of lence by children and against chil- attempted murder, dren. and one count of bur- This trend was first spotted on May glary. 1. 1992, when Eric Houston, age 20, In the previous plotted a siege on his former high cases, all of the sus- So koU/ school in Olivehurst, California. pects were charged Outraged over a failing grade, as adults because Closer to home, a story that Houston entered the school murder- they were either y might have ended in a fatal- ing four people and wounding ten. over the age of six- ity fizzled out before it got Houston was tried and sentenced to teen or because of too hot. On Monday, April death. ' the severity of their y tk« 6th, an eight-year-old boy On January 18, 1993, Scott crimes. So how do .was arrested for carrying a Pennington, a seventeen-year-old stu- you charge a baby? coh%N\Uhiti y of loaded .32 caliber pistol into dent at East Carter High in Grayson, ' Recently the commu- A * ft PS. 181 in Laurelton, New Kentucky, went on his own hunting nity of Jonesboro, Jersey. The boy had expedition. Pennington entered the Arkansas has had to brought the gun to school high school, walked right into Deanna. ask themselves that the previous week allegedly McDavid's seventh period English very question. What threatening a fellow class- class and shot her in the head. While . do you do when two mate on Thursday and leaving the building, Pennington shot children commit a Friday. It was reported to Marvin Hicks, the school janitor in the heinous crime and school officials who then abdomen. Pennington was arrested, do not even realize confiscated the weapon and charged, and convicted of murder, what • they have called police. The boy has leaving him with a life sentence and a done? Cousins been suspended and chance for parole after serving a mini- Mitchell Johnson, charged with criminal pos- mum of twenty-five years. age 13, and Drew do you Jo u/K By Ron Zapata deaths due to unprofessional" and unsafe abortions. How could Tatholicism is"~a vital organization in peoples'iives. it allows an out- Catholics encpurage love and peace to those who follow their faith, yet let for their fears in the future, as well as counseling for the many also encourage death and destruction through several of their ideals? faults and distresses that we display in our everyday lives. It is safe to And where does Fordham fit into all of this? Well, unlike other say that without Catholicism, or any religion for that matter, havoc schools, we are not given free condoms—condoms that could prevent and chaos would reign in the world. But does this give Catholicism the unwanted births and sexually transmitted diseases that will destroy the right^to control and manipulate the lives of millions? many lives. I hope Catholic institutions are comfortable with the Though Catholicism is a vital part of our civilized fact that more of their students might die because of world, it encourages mindless following of its * > , , sexually transmitted diseases than secular institutions doctrines. As devout followers, Catholics 4 ";*. because of Catholic beliefs. must follow the teachings , . , Our University handbook of the Pope. They must further states that "stu- follow the teachings of dents of all faiths and of the Bible. They must go no faith are given to Church every Sunday, encouragement and oppor- go to Church every feast * tunity to join in seminars and day, not eat meat on Fridays discussions of religious issues during Lent, and believe the and to participate in religious unbelievable. I believe liturgies. Priests, nuns faith is the word we and lay persons on have assigned to this the faculty and staff mindless gullibility are ready to assist we encourage for the students in the quest sake of peace of mind. for their own religious com- As an institu- mitment. None tion of higher >: -. of these oppor- learning, we ' * s - - ; .. tunities are are encour- %v- ^ *- - forced upon aged to question the anyone; their use mindlessness of faith. As depends on the interest, the Fordham handbook good will and initiative of says, "the nature of a uni- Sacrificial the students." This state- versity requires a ment makes many claims respect for evi- that we do not dence, for see fulfilled in investigation, action. Most for reason and religious dis- for enlightened assent." As a cussions or liturgies we are university of highly intel- encouraged to attend are ligent, rational human for Catholics. The beings, how could LA BS only religious mem- the majority of our bers of the faculty or University believe in staff that we can turn the mythology of to are priests and Catholicism: virgin births, res- , nuns. It is true that no one is urrections, walking on water, forced to participate in these burning bushes, holy religious gatherings, but ghosts, talking snakes, ' > , they are the only ones devils, angels, heaven, . available. A person and hell? , ' ••- seeking religious guid- It is not rational to ;, '"' t ance is not given an unbi- believe in something just because it is the ' •'' \ ased consolation, they are given majority's belief. We should all be shep- >p a Catholic consolation. And those encour- herds instead of sheep following the herd. Why do we *§ . aged by this consolation become Catholics. Welcome to follow the Bible? Do people actually believe that these Fordham University, the Pope's recruitment center for writers were given some inner insight on the history of the Catholics. world? And can we really trust the Bible? How could someone If Fordham University is to truly become open to all religions, write the story about the creation of the world when they we must either offer more outlets to other religions or get rid of weren't there? How could people believe in completely fabricat- our Catholic affiliation. Get rid of campus ministry, the Jesuits ed tales that demean our sensibilities? and cut the ties to St..Paul's Church. Religion is the most perti- The worst sins of all are the doctrines that Catholicism teach- nent basis for order in our society. However, mindless following es. How could the Pope, in good conscience, discourage Hie use and forcing religious beliefs on others only brings images of of condoms and other devices that would prevent unwanted George Orwell's 1984. Religion and faith is an individual deci- pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases? The Pope's sion that no book, no person, and no university should try to pride and religious beliefs may lead to the death of millions of influence or coerce. • Catholics and the creation of millions of unwanted and abused children. The Pope's stance on abortion may lead to several Commenta April 17,1998 Our Fragile Community By Tobias Efthymiades The Fordham community that we are living in is a very fragile community. There are no permanent members, especially in regard to the group that makes up the majority: the students. The word community is derived from "common unity", yet the only thing that unites Fordham is that we are stu- dents, and that they are the 'elite' that has to keep us in shape through iron that white walls, which perfectly the cooks seem to be overworked. reflect the radioactive yellow glow of Where is all my money going??? rules based on the one evil that is mul- those sickening light bulbs are the So, mentally confused, on the verge perfect atmosphere to prepare some- of vomiting, and faithless in regard to ticultural and leaves very little room for one for their lectures and social gath- capitalism and education, I make my erings. I doubt it. How about a few way to class. And the only thing that humanism: profit. tapestries? Why not donate a few keeps me out of Bellevue is the buckets of paint, and-ask one of the thought that I am almost halfway done have in mind are the hallways in the fine arts classes to paint selected walls with my college career, and I sit in I have noticed that our community dorm, and that seemingly never end- in an artistic way? class while my mind conjures up illu- can be symbolically summarized by ing horror-trip linking the dorm to So, upon walking past the blank, sions of grandeur and destruction. the walk that is taken from the dorm, Low^nstein. Maybe I am totally off the sterile hallways of the dorms, I walk This leads me to my conclusion. It to the cafeteria, and ends in the lec- board when I say that I don't like their down the hallway past the CIMS lab is not only they who are to blame, but ture. Lack of humanism can be seen in sterility. Maybe a clan of expert edu- and have pulled open those double us as well. I complain, I hate, but what the hallways. The ones I specifically cational psychologists have proven doors (why don't they just leave them have I actually done to change my sit- open?!?) and am passing the opera- uation? tor's office. Now comes the dreaded How many of you have done some- moment as I turn left towards thing to change the situation? How Lowenstein. The setting could not be many people have actually engaged in more perfect, as the hallway is empty. writing letters, organizing boycotts, or While my gaze goes slowly from the turning off the TV in the cafeteria? beautifully patterned floor to the email How many went to the restructuring station, and the same thought crosses demonstration because they really my mind every time: "how dare they wanted to make a change, instead of . call that a station!" Two monitors, hoping that "NY One" would show up found on a dump, with only one key- with the evening news team so they board that seems to be attached to nei- could boast to their friends that they ther of them. My gaze now casually were on television? wanders to the fax machine that costs It is up to us, the student body, to $79 to use (tax included), then subtly make a change; they don't care. If we crosses to the phone booths. I make really cared, this restructuring busi- my way up the escalators and into the ness wouldn't happen; but it will hap- cafeteria. I really need some soothing pen. Why should anyone care if they food, and a relaxing atmosphere, but are all graduated by the time these as it turns out, the cafeteria breeds "drastic changes to the Fordham only more questions. Community" are instigated? Sixty cents for a piece of fruit!?! One If we combined our forces, we could dollar eighty for a. bottle of water!?! make a change. Paint the hallways, And just to top it all off, they have sub- take hostages, refuse to leave the com- liminal advertisements in the cafete- puter lab when they want to close it, ria. Take that horrid monitor out of we finance the facilities, we pay their there! I don't want to be listening to salaries! Don't moan and wait for the movie previews and the latest com- USO to solve your problems for you. If mercial pop while eating, Well, it we make a change, we will not only seems to me that they are profiting benefit ourselves, but all those who like crazy, but Uic strange tiling is, I follow us. We could create the com- don't see where my money is going. munity that does not exist.! The meals are the same as always, and April 17,1998 Commenta] They Do It All The Time Violent Femmes Visit Rose Hill piece of paper was slapped on a wall, ing itself as an attempt to unify the two near an elevator shaft, on a bulletin campuses, and in the process, give board, in a hallway, or anyplace else. Lincoln Center the flaws of Rose Hill's Luckily, a friend, who also had just block scheduling and age segragated heard of the concert, was going to classrooms. Basically, we are getting Rose Hill the following day to get her- all of Rose Hill's crap that most of self a ticket, so I asked her to pick up Lincoln Center doesn't want and have a ticket for me as well. So, I was actu- protested against. But, when it comes ally able to get a ticket to the perfor- to the good stuff, all of the. sudden, mance, On the night of March 27th, I Rose Hill doesn't feel like sharing any was at Rose Hill, waiting to be let into more. The really "cool" part of this lit- the concert. While I was there, I kept tle story is that my friend had to go all hearing people talk about it riot being the way to Rose Hill in order to get a this way, or that way when David ticket I guess it was too much trouble Spade was here. Being a die hard for them to give us a handful of tickets Spade fan, I approached one of the to sell here. students who was%iaking these com- We want the benefits that this . parisons, and inquired about the com- University, offers, not just the crap. By Katy S. Heinrich Well, on March 25,1 was shocked to ment "What dp you mean when David The concert was only about three- "l"hey do it all the time, yeah yeah. hear about the event. I thought to Spade was here?" X asked. "Yeah, he fourths full at the beginning and about Yeah they do it all the time yeah yeah" myself, 'howin the world could I have* came heife earlier this year," was the one-fourths full by the end. There is sing the Violent Femmes in their missed all of the flyers that Bordham response. I could tiave'died! Spade .at rib reason for Linc&ln Center to have song, Kiss Off, from their selfetitled must have posted around campus?' I Fordham, and me not there to witness been snubbed the way*we were, either album. Speaking of the Violent investigated the situation by walking it! I got angry. Why didn't I hear about. time. I Have spoken to many people at Femmes, how many of you here- at around campus, trying to discover this so called "Fordham Event?" our campus who missed "Fordham's Lincoln Center knew that they, along some sort of information announcing For the past two years, I have heard Spring Concert" and would have gone With The Roots, played a concert at where and when I, too, Could go and nothing but pleas from Fordham for had they known about it either earlier, Rose Hill on Friday, March 27th? Yes, enjoy some good tunes. My discovery us to become one campus. "Build or at all for that matter. Thank you, ladies and gentleman, at our beloved revealed something >a bit shocking: Rammunity," "experience both cam- Rose Hill, fofdoing it again. Hopefully, University, these musical groups per- not a single flyer was posted here at puses" and so on and so forth. you won't "do it all the time." • formed for our fellow Fordhamites. Lincoln Center. That's right, not one Fordham is in the midst of restructur- |r jo tSKUEa IrHE NtHEl, trHE SQK Alto jrHE HQ*,y GlAME. PRESBVIS A40 A iflElE* DENZELlSHIl "HEGOTGAME" RAYALLEN MILUJOVOHCH MMm HA1JK HASSAN SAYED MMCONM 0WBTWW9C Ibuchstonc www.hegotgamo.com Pictures 4 Features April 17,1998 page 10 Why Bunnies Lays Eggs grtf^Other Easter Mysteries By Christine Vaccaro /w&S^changed from Eastre to its current with a serious identity crisis: Even The Name: Cov<8Ffc ion ' siteuujg, Easter. after its transformation, the hare con- "Here comes Peter Cottontail, Easter was p a raucous' tinued building nests and filling them Hoppin' down the bunny trail pagan festiv Vate'd by tfee, iM^unny: Freak of Nature with eggs. The giving of eggs as gifts Hippity hoppity ancient Saxon dr'Oieir goddess e Anglo-Saxons worshipped their themselves, like rabbits and the holi- Easter's on its way!!" of offspring — J ^J ^r T TT % T p^T rrr T^p^ me;y ' r T FT T~V T^ Eastre through her earthly day itself, predate the Christian Easter. (also spelled Eoai^&OLthe day of the ^jjvmbol, the rabbit, a pre-Christian fer- From early on, the egg represented Step inside a Hallmark or CVS these vernal equinox. tility emblem. The Germans brought rebirth in many cultures. They could days and you will find yourself awash Christian the idea of the Easter rabbit to be exchanged after being wrapped in in pastel paraphernalia, chocolate, these n0^feru,':tiibe&1'Baclc tkeif, it America's Pennsylvania Dutch gold leaf or, if you were poor, colored eggs of every man-made material, wo for Country in the eighteenth century, in boiling water with flower petals. stuffed bunnies, chocolate, baskets, ^jy believing that the white hare left They would also be used in Easter-egg plastic grass, chocolate, and of course, openly, wthout eomcjdfog;,-with bright, beautif rolling contests, like the one still held those irrepressible marshmallow ' ', every Easter Sunday morning chickies. Who died and left the Easten ' .White House lawn. Bunny the harbinger and official- ere originally colored bright- spokes-rabbit for Easter, the most e harnge lize the^ujSfiteof spring, solemn of Christian holidays? Well, if smbmtjor ri me most? you are Christian, the answer is Jesus | their Christ died. And as far as Biblical hlid?" ece, scholars can tell, the purpose of His celebrations already pre- death was not to create an entire indus- (Christmas, for example laster^eTOS jg&dr-edhyAi»ertcaV eggs try based on plastic eggs. observed during the CMs^d^mU^oOs^ime in hW ay in Nothing warms the heart quite like stice festival). So the taketeenth ^century, when "the hare people good, old fashioned commercialization about converting the 1^<^e^ia«;kJtate; gentler taster silver. of a religious holiday. Christmas, for covert way. Since the pagans fSastri BuiJri^^ho !Waufd\J&*?fe baskets of So yes, if strife. Easter isabHl;of^ hare, hate #s the foundation of How does this happen? What turns a missionaries decided1 to/aJlo^'popula- tfeefirsl:place?s Christianity, But the good news is, the hallowed, religious holiday like Easter tions tr^fciejb«paj^ll feasts, and ^,$r$imention of ' secularization is not the result of a into a Cadbury-Egg-fluffy-bunny-fest? slowly .Christianity into '&&&«*, fa have ,comtt modern pagan conspiracy, or some The answer, surprisingly, is not mod- ere slowly won \,. amazing bunny PR whiz. These tradi- ern, marketing wizardry, but rather over, the CKristian version of the cele- -the-griddess tions are as old as the holiday itself. millennium-old traditions. bration stuck. After a while, the name Eastre changed a bird into a hare, one Pass the marshmallow chickies. • The Real Underground Music A Look at Those Trying to Make the Ride to Work a Little Easier wing and give me a recording con- "Unfortunately, I don't get too many tax-free business venture. "On a good tract," he said. Keefer is a regular fix- of those," Keefer said. day, if I sing at a station in ture at the Third Avenue train stop on Uretha Cunningham, 27, spends as Manhattan.,.like down on 14th Street the IRT "#2" line in the Bronx. much of her free time as possible singing or 34th Street, especially if the New In case you were wondering, yes, it is for cash at the 125th Street and 7th York Knicks or Rangers are playing a Keefer Rootin' and Tootin' to an illegal to solicit for money in any man- Avenue train stop on the IND "D" line. game at the Garden that night, I could undergrouond beat. ner in New York City buses and sub- "I sing in the subways for practice," make up to $200-$300 per day," Keefer By Kimberly Allen ways. However, this doesn't stop many she said. "If s kinda like the Apollo. If said. I asked him, why worry performers. people don't boo me or try to diss me, about getting some record deal? When you hear music in the subway, "It can be hard though," he said. then I know I've got skills." When not He already makes more money tax- does it annoy you or give you an urge to "The police and [New York City Mayor working as a waitress, Cunningham free than most. sing along? According to a 1997Dajly Rudolph] Giuliani have no sympathy for writes her own songs, but she's most "I want to be a star," he said. News poll, 98% of riders asked said that people out here just trying to make comfortable singing Whitney Houston Because she only sings in the sub- they like to hear music playing in the ends meet. I mean, I'm not robbing or songs or the Gospel songs she's grown ways when time allows, Cunningham subway. One can go to Times Square stealing from anyone. I don't force peo- up singing in church. doesn't make nearly as much as almost anytime of the day or night and ple to give me money. They do it "I am performing in the subways so Keefer. However, she too has had see a show cheaper than any listed on because they like what they hear. It's I can get used to singing in front of some good paydays. Broadway arid sometimes, be more what keeps me from totally giving up on larger crowds of people that I don't "[Last] December 22 I made $637.39 entertained. That's pretty good news to my dream." know, as well as making money," in one day singing in the subways. That subway performers like Alonszo For many, performing in the streets Cunningham said. "(I'm] hoping I'll was definitely the best, but I did sing Keefer, who make their living singing and subways is the only way to survive get used to the crowds now, so [that] from 9:30 am. until about 11:00 p.m. at and playing music underground. in a town where astronomical prices are when I become famous I won't get various stations throughout the city." For Keefer, a 43 year-old aspiring written into the city charter. To some, stage fright." Uretha is currently wait- Cunningham said." I was out in the cold singer and songwriter, singing in the like Keefer, it's just like a nine-to-five, ing for a confirmation that she will for about 13 hours. I usually don't [sing] New York City subway system is not but better. Alonszo makes his own appear on the "Amateur Night" seg- that long, it's not good for my throat." just something that he does for plea- hours when he works the Third Avenue ment of "Showtime at the Apollo" next Keep an eye on the Apollo. The day sure, ifs also his livelihood. "I am hop- station. If he makes enough money to season. Alonszo Keefer and Uretha ing* praying that someone will discover pay his expenses for the month, he can On occasion, singing underground Cunningham make it big, remember me down here, take me under their take a vacation. can be a very lucrative, not to mention you read it here first! • April 17,1998 Features Yes, You Can Be Young Again! FCLC Graduate Guides the Path of Youth Magazine Phenom Teen People result of long hours and hard work, for "Teen People is about the real teen, The magazine continues its innova- she constantly goes beyond the eight there are no models, just real kids," she tions especially in its approach to hour workday and proves herself indis- said. "That's what sets it apart from all celebrity interviews. pensable in everything. However, even of the other teen magazines, like YM "We don't just repeat a set standard with her hectic work schedule Lori still and Seventeen.. of questions like, 'what's your favorite found time to return to FCLC with "Teen People...lt's for both boys and color?' Or 'when was your first kiss?'" words of advice and encouragement, girls and tackles real issues of impor- she said. "We ask [more] relevant ques- and to explain something about the tance. The other teen magazines are tions like, 'who do you admire?' and publishing phenom she helped create solely oriented towards girls and *Who under twenty-one do you think to the future journalists and publishing depict these pretty people, an unat- has made a difference?'" This straight- moguls in Journalism Workshop a.k.a. tainable ideal," she said. [This] is the forward and realistic approach has The Observer's weekly staff meeting. 'real teen book.'" The magazine sur- helped attain celebrities like Jennifer "I have my hand in every part of the passes the pink-colored star decal of Love Hewitt, Drew Barrymore, and Lori Majewski sat in front of magazine," she said. "I really care its competitors with real life stories. Puff Daddy for the magazine's cover the classroom with her Evian bottle and about the whole. I live and die for.this "I'm going and asking kids what they pages since its debut in February. copies of various teenage magazines as thing." As one of the Creative Editors want and taking that chance," These tactics have helped made she began to talk about her life and the ' she has input into virtually every Majewski said. "Teen People features Teen People one of the most successful creation of Teen People. Only 27 years process of the magazine's creation. extreme sports and topics that really launches of all time* "Prom isn't the old, this ambitious young woman has "When creating the magazine I had to affect teens, like violence...it's not just most important part of life," Lori said. come a long way from her days at decide on how to be different but the about ten ways'ntB; get a guy, love The approach has brought Teen People FCLC as an Observer Arts & Culture same at the same time," Lori said, "an lessons and beautj^problems." much favor. "Three issues have gotten editor. After several internships for idea has to be simple to make sense." Teen People is 'also one of the first other magazines into copying us Spin and Sassy she eventually ended After examining the demographics magazines to try and target the young already, that usually takes years," she up as Entertainment editor at YM of People magazine, she realized that •male audience. "The magazine is rriuch said. "Irt three months we have sur- where she remained until she Went to there was a huge market before>her. more neutral. Ithas'His'and 'Her'horo- passed the readership that it took Teen Teen People., the newest and most suc- Seven million readers of People are scopes and various layouts for guys magazine 43 years to [find]." • cessful teen magazine to hit the market under the age of eighteen, according within...Kids are hungry for the real, in years. Her smooth progress is a to Majewski. they want to see real teens as heroes." PlayirT Around at the Pier By Edie Gaythwaite time to get that miniature golf swing in ting cages will pitch you $14 for all day skating. The shape. The Golf Club at Chelsea Piers ten balls for a dollar. If you prefer the big park also offers a $99 yearly Between the subway, has four levels of enclosed hitting stalls orange ball, then stop at the basketball membership card which cuts the office, and the nar- where you can drive your ball onto the courts and get in on a little pick-up game the session price in half. You row streets in New 200-yard artificial fairway. Each stall is action. If you would rather spend your can rent a pair or skates for $10 York, it doesn't take long for life to settle equipped with a computerized automat- time on a beam, a trampoline, uneven but you must have a major into a routine and muscles to become ic ball tee-up system. If your golf balls bars, rings or tumbling, then visit the credit card. There are roller atrophied just weeks before breaking are attracted to the sand, the range gymnastics area. The Field House is hockey leagues to join or unorganized out the bathing suits. A fun and conve- offers a sand bunker and chipping open Monday through Friday from 900 games on Saturday from 5:00 to 6:30 nient alternative may be the Chelsea green so you can practice. The Golf a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and Saturday and p.m. or Sunday from 4:00 to 5:30 p.m. Piers Sports and Entertainment Club has an on-site Golf Academy if you Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to For more information, telephone (212) Complex. The 30-acre sports village are interested in taking golf lessons. 9:00 p.m. For information < i6-6200. located at 23rd Street and the They offer both private and group on leagues, classes and e Sky Rink has general skating Hudson River has tons of stuff Clinics for all different level open gym times, call (212)' sessions for $10, seven days a from sports activities, to golfers. Private lessons 336-6500. week. Sky Rink has a school, party dining and shopping. The cost $60 an hour for an Or fry rock climbing room and offers skate rentals for pier is home to Silver Assistant Pro and $105 an some Friday night.* $4.50. For skate times, leagues and Screen Studios where "Spin hour for a Classic Pro. For a $25 charge/ other information call (212) 336- City," and "Law & Order," are The group clinics are expert climbers will 6100. filmed. There are four piei offered to beginner and provide instruction and the necessary If you don't have enough energy to where "The Spirit" passenger intermediate golfers and equipment needed to climb the ten- participate in a sporting event, then call sight-seeing boats and some of the there are two clinics to choice thousand square foot rock wall at The and make an appointment to pamper world's most beautiful yachts are from. You don't have to be a Field House. Rock climbing is open to yourself at the Origins Feel-Good Spa. docked. There are picnic tables and member to use the facilities but all levels and your experience will begin The spa offers over 30 different mas- benches are usable free of charge. The they do offer three types of member- at 6:00 p.m. and end at 10:00 p.m. For sages, body-wraps, facials, body waxing complex offers soccer, lacrosse, gym- ships. The range is open seven days a more information call (212) 33&6000. and other feel-good treatments. Educate nastics; basketball, karate and dance week from 5 a.m. to midnight For more In-line skating, aggressive skating, yourself, call (212) 446-6780 for more info. classes. There are a variety of Indoor information telephone: 212-33&6400. skate boarding and roller hockey are There is also a coffee shop, a seafood and outdoor drop-in activities available. Whether if s softball or baseball that part of the fun at the outdoor skate park. restaurant and a microbrcwery to satis- Now that Spring is officially here, if s strikes your fancy, The Field House bat- The cost is $8 per four hour session or fy your eating and drinking needaB Arts & Culture April 17,1998 TO FORDHAM'* CABARET OLD CHUM! The Observer talks with one of the stars of Fordham's latest production, Cabaret By Oskar K. Hallig Fortgang, who has been in a number "She's 19 and of other Fordham productions includ- only a child, but "Come to the Cabaret old chum" ing Hair, on why she chose the the- has Big dreams." has gained a new meaning in 1998. ater major. She also said she was When asked These words come from John Kander attracted to Fordham's department, about her moti- and Fred Ebb's spectacular musical rather than a Conservatory, because vation within the Cabaret, a story about a young girl the department offers study in "differ- play she says tf and her experience during World War ent aspects of the theater." To further is that "her play- II Germany, which is enjoying a new amplify this, she said she has worked ground is crum- life these days. Only a few months ago on publicity and currently works in bling around the smash, Academy Award winning the costume shop, where she has her and she film, starring the talented, energetic, helped with the costumes for Cabaret has a hard time and flawless Liza Minnelli was re- something she • "would not have accepting it." released in a 25th Anniversary special thought about, now I love." For Fortgang, edition. Then some months later a As for her involvement in musicals Cabaret deals staged revival, which differs from the she says, "I always lbved musicals. not with Sally film in ways, including some different They're my favorite." Her view on being naive, as songs, was mounted by the Cabaret, in particular is that it "has a some productions have.portrayed complete disregard for humanity. Roundabout Theater Company at the lot of substance. Other musicals are her, but rattier as Sally choosing not "The play reopened my eyes to some- "Kit Kat Klubf" starring Natasha fun, but often fluffs" It is abundantly to accept what is going on around her. thing I often forgot," says Fortgang. It Richardson. 'Now, a third production clear that Fortgang took her part as "Sally is not oblivious to it, but rather should reopen our eyes as well. has surfaced here at Fordham Sally Bowles very seriously. She had wants to be oblivious. She makes a Cabaret runs from April 16-25 in the University. In this production Lauren to "see the movie, but did not know it conscious choice not to deal with it.. Pope Auditorium, 113 West 60th Fortgang, FCLC '00, joins the ranks of well." In order to prepare she read the . she fights it to the end." Here lies the" Street. Performances start at 8PM Minnelli and Richardson as the lead short story entitled, Sally Bowles, motivation of Sally in Lauren's perfor- with a matinee on Friday April 24 at character, Sally Bowles. I had a watched the film I am a Camera, and mance. 12PM. Tickets are $12 general admis- chance to chat with her about the even got to attend the cast part for the Cabaret, which is directed by sion, $6 for students and seniors. Fordham theater program, the Broadway production, a show she is Elizabeth Margid with musical direc- Thursdays are $1 student nights for all Cabaret production, and finally her still trying to get tickets to see. tion by Michael Mulder, promises to students with valid I.D. For more feelings on being Ms. Bowles. Fortgang also felt that she could be a powerful performance. It is truly information call 636-6340. • "I, always loved the theater,*' says identify ^with Bowles in some ways. a story of human emotion in a time of Just When You Think You Know Your Roommate A review of a new romantic comedy, / Think I Do response is dismissive and the whose pre-wedding jitters almost get remembrance of this denial lurks in the better of her, Matt invites every- Bob's head. The film then brings us to one back to their honeymoon suite. the present at Carol and Mart's wed- He insists that Brendan and Bob may ding where all the old roomies have spend the night after Sterling passes gathered, including Bob and out'in their hotel room with the key. Brendan. Bob's new boyfriend, Needless to say Carol is not very Sterling, is contemplating a closer happy and the one relationship that relationship with Bob, one similar to appears right seems to already be Matt and Carol's. Sterling is clueless short lived but the occurrences that Bob (Alexis Arquette) and Brendan (Christian Haelen) discover they are more than just at the outset about the old crush, follow provide for an amusing conclu- college roommates in / Think I Do. which apparently isn't old, and has no sion and the friends depart quite dif- By Sarah Forbes Wonderfut) are filled with curiosity idea that it threatens to take Bob away ferently than they expected. about their old flames Brendan from the relationship altogether. Sloan brings together a delightful Brian Sloan creates a hysterical (Christian Maelen) and Eric When Sarah catches sight of bunch of young actors to play such a sequence of events where seven col- (Guillermo Diaz) and everyone is Brendan she is another hopeless vic- diverse group of friends in / Think I lege friends are reunited five years excited to meet Sterling Scott (Tuc tim of the wave of old emotions. She Do. The characters -are strong and after graduation and unresolved Watkins), Bob's new boyfriend. pursues him without a second their quirky relationships with each issues finally come out in the open. In, After a somewhat confusing start thought and finds his reaction Unre- other is what holds the film together. / Think I Do, Carol (Lauren Velez) one can quickly see how the film puts warding. Beth pays little attention to Sloan, really makes you think twice and Matt (Jamie Harold),two of the a modern face on a simple romantic any thoughts she had of Eric when about your close college friends. strange seven, have decided to tie the comedic construction. Bob (Alexis she sees him and he is probably the / Think I Do is currently playing at knot and the old college gang gets Arquette) takes the bold step in pur- . least disappointed of the bunch when the Quad Cinema on 13th Street together again for the event. Sarah suing a relationship with his best push comes to shove and feelings between 5th and 6th .Avenues.•Check... (Marianne Haghan) and Beth friend/roommate Brendan during begin to fly, local listings for show times. • (Maddie Corman from Some Kind Of their last year in college. Brendan's After a wedding is forced on Carol April 17, 1998 Arts & Culture this greatly influenced their art. By the middle of the century, American art was beginning to take on its own definition, veering away from European influence. You can see how American art took its shape at a new exhibit at the Alexander Calder, The Circus, 1926-31. Whitney Museum of American Art, which has been dedicated to this pur- materialism, the urban landscape of pose for 67 years. The recently New York City, the world wars, psy- installed Permanent Collection in the. choanalysis, the Great Depression, Split Ttee, part of the Nathan Farb exhibit currently in the Plaza Gallery newly built Leonard & Evelyn Lauder and the Cold War era. Among me Galleries was opened to the public on artists shown are Robert Henri, April 4. They are the first Permanent Joseph Stella, and Stuart Davis. Nature, A Mans Best Friend Collection galleries in the museum's Separate galleries are dedicated exclu- A look at the photography exhibit currently in the Plaza Gallery history. They include more than a sively to the works of Edward Hopper, hundred works from a total of 12,000, Georgia O'Keeffe, and Alexander By Jennifer A. Uihlein taken early in the morning or at sun- which founder Gertrude Vanderbilt Calder, including his well-known set. Whitney started collecting 70 years Circus (1926-31). His work does not go unnoticed. In addition to his Adirondack col- The collection includes a sculpture Big, beautiful, bold colored picture lection, Farb has published many by Gertrude herself, a rebel of her landscapes are remarkably breath-tak- photo books on Russia and the time who dedicated,her life to exhibit- ing. : Everyone is talking. The Galapagos, and won a photo essay ing the works of struggling American Fordham University Student Arts award from The New York Newspaper artists, who were otherwise ignored Guild presents .the work of photogra- Guild, for hisv dpcumentary photos by traditional academies. phenNathan Farb for the spring exhi- , taken for -The,' New York Times I am sure you will visit this exhibit bition in' the Plaiza Gallery, the?last;. Magazine of thetdevastating forest fire time arid again, yet make sure you do segment of the two-part series, "New of 1988 in Yellowstone National Park. Stuart Davis, Otohiin San Pao, 1951. before May 10, so you do not miss the York State's. Adirondack Mountains," For thjs'"nature boy," "Nature has, amazing works, of Bill Viola on the For Farb, who' grew up in Lake always been my best friend. It By Kristin Mattiskc immigrants, who drew upon European art movements or from what was What defined American art at the being produced in their native coun- turn of the century? It is an elusive tries. However, the visions that they TIT tin. in HIE. iir inline. Jiti TIT. question, considering that many peo- produced were very different. They ple still did not consider themselves^ were experiencing the rise of industri- American at this point in time, A great alism, capitalism, and meshing of cul- number of artists in thiscountrywere tures in the still young America, and EXCLUSIVE ENGAGEMENT LINCOLN PLAZA CINEMAS NOW PLAYING i?£X&T^%SiJ^ Observer ..'..- -.**i?..t«» THE COMPARATIVE LITERATURE CLUB Fordham University presents ANNE McCLINTOCK Associate Professor of English and Comparative Literature, Columbia University on Metamorphoses: , race. Thursday, April 23 4:00 p.m. Lowenstein, Room 518 Fordham University Lincoln Center 113 West 60th Street April 17,1998 Arts & Culture Denzcl's Got Game The Observer looks at He Got Game, a new film by Spike Lee, and talks to its star, Denzel Washington By Katy S. Heinrich who's there, and he's with that girl, and the girl imagines "Fordham's great!" she's the girl and she's with exclaimed Denzel that guy." Washington isn't Washington as he slapped finished with this idea of love me five and shook my hand on the screen though, he in one gliding motion. already has a project in mind "What year are you?" he to help him keep his leading asked me. "Sophomore," I man image in tact. "I would replied. "Sophomore! So really like to do a real when I graduated, you romance, f m working on one weren't even born yet! 77 actually. I'm developing one"." you weren't even born yet," Washington felt very strongly Washington said shaking about wanting to do this film, his head. "The easiest tiling for me to Denzel Washington do is decide to do a film, graduated from Fordham because there are very few I University at Lincoln find interesting, so as soon as Center with a degree in the- I read it I called Spike imme- ater after abandoning his diately, and asked him 'when original major biology, do we start?' There was no "which wasn't working out doubt in my head." Being a so well," Washington big basketball fan didn't hurt remembers with a laugh. Washington either. To pre- He has since been having a pare for the role, he had to brilliant career as one of play a lot of basketball with Hollywood's most respect- the professionals who were ed actors and has been Denzel Washington and Spike Lee on the set of He Got Game. cast in the movie. With a deemed ' one of America's stroke of bad luck however, sexiest men. He has stared in dozens the characters in the film. It looks ment, and wears it very well. while "playing in a little league before of films including Malcom X, Crimson closely on how a pressure like being a One of the scenes in the film I came out to shoot, I tore up my knee Tide, Pelican Brief, Devil In A Blue number one sports player effects the involves Jake and a white prostitute and had surgery, so I was limping the Dress, and Much Ado About Nothing. person and all of the people around named Dakota (Jovovich) having sex. whole movie." He has won an Academy Award and them. It also delves into the bonds and This interracial love scene has created In one of the most climactic scenes received two Oscar nominations in his relations of family both positive and quite a stir among many of the view- in He Got Game, Jake and Jesus play 20 something years in the business. negative. • ers, and it is not the first time that this one on one to see if Jesus will sign up Washington's latest film is one direct- The characters in the film are issue has risen for Washington. "We to go to Big State or not. In the origi- ed, written, and produced by long time painfully human, each with their shot a scene in a film called The nal script, Jesus was supposed to beat friend and co-worker Spike Lee, titled endearing qualities and despicable Mighty Quinn, with Mimi Rogers, his father "11 nothing. Yeah, that was- He Got Game, and also starring Hill faults. There is not one character who where we kissed, and they did a n't going to happen," Washington tells Harper {Strange Days, Beloved), Milla makes it through the film with out screen test, and people screamed and us with a chuckle, "see, that just goes Jovovich {Return to the Blue Lagoon, falling from your graces at least once, boded and hissed. They said black to show you, you'll take a beating in Dazed and Confused, The Fifth except maybe Jesus's mother who is females and white males hated it, and the sex scene, but not in basketball." Element), Ray Allen (pro basketball only shown in, flash backs. The they cut it out," Washington Beating in the sex scene refers to the player for the Milwaukee Bucks), Bill biggest flaw, however, was the way explained. "It shows you what people rather anti-climatic moment Jake has Nunn (Kiss the Girls, Mad City, Sister women were portrayed in the flick. feel. I don't know if it's just about me after finally getting a girl in bed for the Act) and Rosario Dawson (Kids). Minus the mother, every woman in being up there, or about any black per- first time in six years. In the He Got Game, Washington the film was either a whore, a cheater, son kissing a white person. I think it In the end and beginning of the plays Jake Shuttlesworth, a prisoner a liar, or a slut.- There was an- entire has as much to do with who the per- film, Washington's scenes take place who finds himself released on tempo- scene with the basic point that white son is. I don't want to speak for black at Raway prison in New Jersey. This is rary parole under the understanding college girls are all stupid sluts who women, I don't want to say, I think the second time Washington has shot that he in return will convince his son live to have sex with and fall all over black women think this, because I a movie in this location. "I'm getting to Jesus (Allen), who is the number one black athletes. Despite the film's don't know, you know. I don't want to know some of the guys," Washington high school player in the country, to faults, Washington's performance is go down that path," he added laughing laughs "Hey D how are you, did you attend Big State University in the fall what saves it. He breaks his usual and then on a more serious note con- bring my sandwich like I asked you to play basketball. While the film is noble and charming image, and trades tinued by saying, "you go to the four years ago." • about basketball, its focus is mostly it in for an uneducated, scruffy look- movies in a way to see yourself, you centered on thefelatidfishlps between ing, ex-convict with'a speech impedi- know the guy imagines he's the guy Arts & Culture April 17,1998 By Kevin Devine Natalie Imbruglia Left of the Middle Agents of Good Roots RCA Records One By One RCA Records Already plastered all over MTV, VH1, and radio with her single Torn," Natalie Imbruglia seems poised to There are worse things that could happen to a band upon the release of their become a candidate for next big thing-dom with her debut release Left of the first major label album than being asked to open for the Dave Matthews Band on Middle. Unfortunately, the promise of the charming (if campy) Torn" does not their summer tour, a trip which includes a date at Giants Stadium with Beck and lend itself to the rest of the record, and the result is a collection of Alanis Ben Folds Five. Such is life for Agents of Good Roots, promoted to the majors with Morisette sound-alikes, full of all the pretention of the afore-mentioned superstar One By One after two successful independent releases. Stylistically all over the and the embarrassing pseudo-pomp of U2's bad side without the bright spots of place, Agents mix up funk, jazz, traditional rock and roll and some indie-rock on either to make up for it. Outside of the somewhat engaging "Pigeons and One By One. "Come On" smacks of Kim Deal's Breeders, with its subtly distort- Crumbs" and the modestly catchy "Wishing I Was There," there's not a decent ed vocals and power-pop chorus. 'Two Bucks In Cash" and "Miss America" rock hook to be found on Left of the Middle. Fortunately for both artist and label, the out in an Aerosmith kind-of-way, while "Upspin" loosely resembles a weirded-out structure of the modern mainstream music scene will allow Imbruglia to sell Harry Conick, Jr. Vocally speaking,' the duties are sharedl&y drummer Brain nearly a million albums on the strength of Torn" alone, even if no one hears Jones, bassist Stewart Myers, and guitarist/keyboardist Andrew Winn. The another song on the album. Natalie Imbruglia found a way to score with a song vocals resemble tourmate Matthews at times, but without the falsetto and with a that makes up for what it lacks in originality with likable feeling and angst-y lyrics hoarser vibe. "I'll Be Back", the last song on One By One, is a.distinctive, heart- ("I'm all out of faith/This is how I feel", "Nothing's right/I'm torn"). If Left of the felt ballad about finding the self, and it stands out beautifully against the pre- Middle is an indicator of what's to come, that may be the best she can hope for. dominantly rocking feel of the rest of the record. Agents of Good Roots have enough talent and diversity to hang on stage with their (much bigger) peers on Superdrag tour this summer, and One By One serves as the proof. Headtrip tn Every Key Elektra Records Das EFX Generation EFX Some bands have this grasp Eastwest Record* America of how to write a melody that stays with you long after the words that match it do. ' Superdrag (not Superchunk or Supergrass, fellow graduates Cum Laude of Indie Brooklyn's Das EFX returns after a several year hiatus with Generation EFX, Rock high school) are one such outfit. Headtrip in Every Key is the record Tom a 15 song collection of hard-edged rhymes and big-bounce beats. Featuring half Hanks wanted his' Wonders to write in "That Thing You Do." Absolutely infec- of hip-hop in cameo roles, Generation sounds and looks tough. The scream- . tious music played in the key of John and Paul with just enough 90's moodiness along feel of "No Doubt" featuring M.O.P and Teflon blisters with intensity and floating around tamake it "modern" and undeniably hip, the 13 tracks that make confrontational angst, as does "Somebody Told Me" featuring Nocturnal and 8- up Headtrip rarely disappoint. Singer, guitarist, painist, orgainst, mellotronist, Off Aguilar, a testimonial to the not always pleasant world of rap stardom sitarist, thereminist, John Davis intersperses pinpoint harmonies throughout the ("Somebody told me this rap s**t was fun...but thafs bulls**t"). The highlight of wide-open British Invasion-through-American eyes flow of "Hellbent," the the album comes when Das tones down a bit on "Rap Scholar," an ode to rhyming Matthew Sweet inspired "Do the Vampire," and the distinct "Amphetamine," on skill headlined by Redman's kinetic guest spot. All in all, Generation EFX is a which the strains of a violin can even be made out. Superdrag hits every mark solid record full of energy and ability. dead on, from the hand claps of "Bankrupt Vibration" to the one-hit wonder com- mentary of "Mr. Underground" ("How does it feel to be one of the novelties?/You Aretha Franklin . can ask me"), to the "Kashmir"-esque stomp of "The Art Of Dying." All around, a A Rote Is Still A Rose remarkable effort that deserves more recognition that it will probably get. ' Arista Records -Jt Emma Townshend . The Queen of Soul returns to the Winterland pop/r+b forefront with her 49th release, Eastwest Reoords America A Rose Is Still A Rose. Truth be told, this is the freshest Franklin has sounded in Falling somewhere between the over 20 years. Co-produced by a team of open-faced honesty of Tori Amos and the dark poetics of Jeremy Enigk is Emma the hottest producers in music today Townshend and her interesting (if somewhat flawed) Winterland. Mostly quiet, (including Lauryn Hill of the Fugees, piano-driven pieceswith haunting lyrics and unsettlingly disparate vocal patterns, Sean "Puffy" Combs, and Jermaine Winterland is strongly influenced by Amos' body of work, down to the discordant Dupri), Rose stands as a forum for the Aretha Franklin proves that she is still a and distorted backdrop of "Ghost Kitchen." Vocally speaking, Townshend resem- Queen to retake her throne. Shining rose with her latest album, bles a young Natalie Merchant losing her mind, but lyrically, she's all alone. vocally with devastating, heart-on-the- A Rose Is Still A Rose. Thoroughly disturbing at some points ("I'm choking again/I can see the sleeve anthemic near-perfection, Franklin stomps, screams, and kicks her way deathshead" from The Last Time I Saw Sadie") and colorfully poignant at others through 11 souped up tracks. Far more steeped in hop-hop than any of her pre- ("And the seasons are passing/the redness of autumn/comes flying right in at vious work without sounding like it's meant to come off that way, the opening title me" from "Wish Finger"), Townshend's words seem to come straight from the track details the story of a woman who's been left by her man, and the consola- heart and can be quite effective when draped over her spare backgrounds. tion Franklin offers her. From there, the record continues to pick up momentum Winterland's main flaw is Townshend's reluctance to run with a solid melody. and surprisingly modern soul power and doesn't come up for air until the last When she stumbles onto something beautiful, her first tendency seems to be to note of The Woman" rings out. Several years ago, Michael Jordan returned to discard it and move on, presumably in the name of avant-garde art-rock vs. con- basketball to show all the would-be bad boys who's boss. On A Rose Is Still A ventional pop music structure. Nonetheless, Townshend creates an indelible Rose, Franklin does the same to" the* wd?Id of r+b. impression with her singularity and feeling. •