The bserver THE STUDENT VOICE OF FORDHAM COLLEGE AT LINCOLN CENTER May 1, 2003 www.fclcobserver.com VOLUME XXI, Issue 14 Loulan, D'Amato Campus Prepares Join USG Board for Commencement ABC News' Ted Koppel is Guest Speaker

By Anthony Hazell, FCLC'06 STAFF WRITER

FORDHAM - With just a few days left until the univer- sity's 158th Commencement Ceremony, seniors are prepar- ing for the event that will offi- cially end their undergraduate life. Come May 17, gowns will flail in the wind, caps will fly in the sky, tears will stream down faces, and Fordham will say farewell to the Class of 2003. Gardner Loulan, Rob D'Amato, USG President Elect USG Vice-President Elect The university has tapped Ted Koppel, senior correspon- By Matt Colabraro, FCLC'06 Loulan. "I'd like to see a con- dent for ABC News and STAFF WRITE!? tinuation of this year's impor- anchor'11 of the network's tant initiatives and a movement Nightline, to serve as com- FCLC - A grand total of 252 towards more progressive mencement speaker for this votes were cast to decide the ones." year's ceremony. Koppel will lineup for next year's United Loulan said he hopes to con- also be the recipient of an ABCNawa Student Government (USG) tinue USG's attempts to make honorary degree from Ted Koppel, anchor and correspondent for ABC News, will serve board, resulting in the victory of the residence hall more inclu- Fordham. as this year's commencement speaker. Gardener Loulan, FCLC'04, sive of commuters by changing "I plan to speak about the over incumbent president the guest pass policy and also relevance of a 40-year mar- degrees are selected through a members of the community Cheryl Thill, FCLC'04. In a wants to see further progress in riage to what lies ahead for process that begins in the fall requesting nominations for narrow win, Rob D'Amato, the free speech board recently the rest of you," Koppel said preceding graduation. The honorary degree candidates. FCLC'04, snatched the vice approved by USG. when asked what he planned university Commencement By November, the presidency from incumbent Gardner said his new initia- to include in his commence- Committee - composed of Commencement Committee Lecie Alario, FCLC'05. tives will include the formation ment address. two students, two alumni, two narrows the list down to 20 to Loulan beat Thill by 42 of an FCLC television channel, According to University faculty members, two 30 people before sending it votes, receiving 143 nods while something he Secretary Margaret T. Ball, trustees, and two administra- Thill received 101. the candidates for honorary tors - sends out a note to (Continued on page 4) "1 have a lot of ideas," said (Continued on page 5) Final Plans In Place For Seniors' Last Week By Jacqueline Spitzer FCLC'05 senior votes." STAFF WRITER Schwab and Finn expressed their hope for the week, which begins on May 12 FCLC - From May 12 to May 16, with a night of swing dancing, to draw seniors will have the ultimate New York the same amount of crowds that gathered experience thanks to the Senior Week for past Senior Week events. May 13 Committee's dedication to their last week features a trip to Atlantic City, white at Fordham College at Lincoln Center. water rafting, or a New York Yankees vs. The committee members - Kristin Anaheim Angels game. On May 14, Schwab, Amy Bleier, Samara Finn, seniors can head to the Bronx Zoo or the Briana Mandel, Kristen Sardis, Lisa Montauk Lighthouse in the afternoon and Seewagen, and Stephen Sosnowski - then spend their evening at Movin' Out! mailed a survey to the graduating seniors on Broadway. May 15 opens with "Tea over Christmas break about possible at the Plaza" and concludes with the tra- activities. Schwab, chairperson of the ditional Senior Cruise. The seniors com-

2003 Senior Week Committee, said the plete their week with a family mass and fordham.fldu members "organized the week around Senior week will be capped off by commencement at Uose Hill, Above, lust year's cere- those programs that received the most (Continued on page 4) mony. Inside this issue of The Observer... COMMENTARY: FEATURES: ARTS: LITERARY: SPORTS: News May 1, 2003 page 2 CAB Springs into Action Recruiting New Members The Campus Activities Board: Your Student Activities Fee at Work

By Stephanie Perez, FCLC'05 grams such as showing gramming and more pro- STAFF WRITER movies on campus before grams can get done." Also, they have been released on she added that since the FCLC - The Campus video, trips to Broadway money used to fund pro- Activities Board (CAB), a shows, opera events, muse- grams and events by student student-run organization um tours and excursions to organizations such as CAB responsible for program- other places of interest in comes from the activity fee ming events at Lincoln the city. When asked about paid by all undergraduates, Center, has made recruiting her expectations for next students might want to new members one of its pri- fall she replied, "1 would become involved in clubs mary goal this semester. like to see more students at and organizations that inter- Current members ffope this the meetings so they can est them. will establish it as more of a realize the efforts that go Although CAB was fairly presence on campus and into planning events." inactive for the first semes- allow more programs to be Desmond also spoke about ter of~this"year, this semes- planned for the student CAB's aspirations attract ter they have committed to body. outside performers and an ambitious number of CAB is a group that pro- hold more on-campus programs, including movie vides many programs and events. nights and off-campus events at FCLC, helping CAB members also want excursions such as co-spon- students get the most out of more commuters to get soring a trip to Six Flags their college experience. A involved. Desmond con- Great Adventure on April variety of activities that firmed this, saying that, 26. Members are establish- are in the works for this "these programs are for the ing themselves as a pres- semester are cultural, entire undergraduate com- ence on campus and hope to *»«»» back kjrThwalay, April uth* social, educational, and munity at Fordham and all recruit dedicated and hard- CAB-CAMPUS ACrmriKSBOAiUJ entertaining. Most of these students should have more working undergraduate stu- events are either free or of input." dents to join them in devel- very little cost to Fordham "I hope CAB gets a larger oping more programs and Get of£ the curbapd students. increase in membership," events for the Fordham get in the CAB!! According to MarieW said CAB Co-Chair, Kristin community. Desmond, FCLC'04, an Schwab, FCLC'03. "More Any undergraduate students active member, in the past diverse people equals a interested in becoming active 11111 ntwmw CAB has implemented pro- greater diversity in pro- in CAB and would like more information regarding upcom- I! 1111ILOUU ing programming and meet- Professor Offers Thoughts ings, can leave their name and e-mail in CAB's mailbox in LL408, Office of Student Eliza Gager on Higher Education Activities or send an e-mail to: The Campus Activities Board is actively recruiting members for next [email protected] semester. Above, one of CAB's flyers. By Shilpa Patel, FCLC'05 people tied up for years. I think STAFF WRITER we need to support higher edu- cation more because it is obvi- A Rise in Alcohol Use and Abuse FCLC - Reminiscing about ously very important. his days in college, Dr. David Promotes Prevention Programs Malcolm, professor of psy- The Observer: Is there any- chology and freshmea advisor, thing else you would change By Shilpa Patel, FCLC'05 tries to determine what is about higher education? STAFF WRITER lem and finding out what resources from all three cam- wrong with today's higher edu- DM: There are a lot of the underlying causes are. puses to help students. It also cation in the United States. small problems. It should be FCLC - Instances of students Counselors then find the has an arrangement with Looking at the past he finds easier for people to not go to with alcohol related problems right course of treatment for Smithers Treatment Center in faults and strengths in today's college right after high are becoming more frequent the student. Manhattan for students who system. school. I see more than one of and, to support these students, As for prevention, govern- need additional assistance. them who I think would bene- Fordham's Lincoln Center cam- ment findings show that Another group, Prevention The Observer: What is the fit from not being here. I had pus is promoting programs that DARE, the drug abuse resis- PARty, an acronymn for main problem with higher one advisee in particular who offer alternate activities and tance education program Peers Advocating education today? did not want to go, did not assistance. designed for kindergartens Responsibility, offeYs cam- David Malcolm: The cost has want to be here. She was "We are seeing a tremendous through high school seniors pus activities and program- gone through the roof and as a made to go, and she flunked increase in alcohol use and that serves over 80 percent of ming for students to promote result of cost going through the everything. Some of these abuse as well as emotional the nation's school districts, is awareness and give students roof a very large numbers of young people should go health issues in general," said not as helpful as it is meant to the option of participating in students have to work and go to away for awhile, do what they Dr. David Davar, assistant be, according to Stacey Eger, activities that do not involve school. When 1 was a freshman really want to do, and then director of psychological ser- assistant director of student alcohol and drugs. Some I only knew one other student later on come back. It is very vices at the health center. activities, peer education and programs are Lollanobooza, who had to work and he worked hard to come back financial- "There are probably as many programming. held annually at Rose Hill, 10 hours a week in the library. ly, but school should be fun. causes of alcohol abuse as there "Students are beginning to and also the creation of are people suffering from alco- drink at an early age," said guides to off-campus, sub- The Observer: What do you The Observer: What would- hol abuse. Each human being is Eger, specifying that stu- stance free activities in New think are some of the effects n't you change about higher unique. However, there are a dents as young as 12 to 13 York City. that the high cost of education education in the U.S.? great many common themes." years of age are consuming "I haven't heard about any has on students? DM: What I would not change Some of these common alcohol. support groups for alcohol and DM! Time' pressure. They is the fact that compared to when themes include depression and For that reason among oth- substance abuse at Fordham," can't put in the time for their 1 went, the percentage of students social anxiety. A student may ers, students that arrive at said Lauren Branche, FCLC'05. studies. was very low. College has be drinking to "self-medicate" Fordham with substance abuse "I think students take alcohol opened up to a much wider range or gain social acceptance, problems can receive informa- and drugs like marijuana light- The Observer: How would of folks than it used to be. I according to Davar. tion on self-help groups from ly. It's so common to find some- you fix this problem? would like to see it open to every- He said that the health the PEP program, a group one smoking a blunt or drinking DM: Government assistance body; everyone who wants to go center helps students by whose acronymn stands for underage. It is second nature to to colleges and students. Not to school should be able to, some- giving a thorough assess- prevention, education and pro- a lot of students here at just loans because loans leave how, someway. • ment of the student's prob- gramming. The program uses FCLC." • May 1,2003 News page 3 Year In Review: Top News Stories of the Year Sex Slurs and Free Speech

By Anthony Hazell, FCLC'06 S.J. to Columbia President Lee STAFF WRITER C. Bollinger. Bollinger expressed "personal regret" and FORDHAM The end of sought "appropriate institution- another academic year has al response." arrived and, like past years. The Grimes said "There was no Observer was filled with stories apology...they said they were that expressed various views on sorry we were offended." issues affecting the Lincoln Center campus, as well as the Diploma Ceremony Now at rest of the university. Here is a Rose Hill brief compilation of some of the After being notified that top stories that graced the pages Avery Fisher Hall, the Lincoln of The Observer over the past Center campus' usual venue for eight months. graduation, would not be avail- able this year, university offi- Cohabitation Policy Sparks cials decided to move FCLC's Controversy Among diploma ceremony to the Rose McMahon Hall Residents Hill campus in the Bronx. A ban on pre-marital sexual "I think it's ridiculous." said intercourse became more strict- Melissa Flaccavento, FCLC'03. ly enforced in the residence hall "We should have it at Carnegie after an alteration was made to Hall or something. We pay so McMahon Hall's policy regard- much money; we shouldn't have ing cohabitation. Assistant to graduate at Rose Hill." Director of Residential Life United Student Government Catharine McGlade said the President Cheryl Thill, FCLC clause, called the Moral '04, said, "I can understand Growth and Responsibility some Lincoln Center students Policy, was not new, but simply are opposed [to graduating at refocused. Rose Hill]...the administration "I don't think it's the univer- has looked into every alterna- sity's policy responsibility to tive to graduate around Lincoln fordham.edu mandate the sexual practices of Center...there are really not Fordham College at Lincoln Center the people who attend," said many places that can fit the 1 '•!•. Patrick Dieter, FCLC'03. number of people we need..." to read two of their letters aloud will succeed O'Hare, S.J. on idea...It's a bad idea to support at the College Council's Oct. 29 July 1. Currently serving as something that we let them Administration Opts Hate Crimes meeting. president of the University of run." for Block Scheduling in McMahon Hall While Thill acknowledged Scranton, McShane explained Thill, however, reminded University administrators An apartment of fourth floor she knew about Justice's that through his experience in( USG members that last year, adopted a new block schedule male residents in McMahon request to discuss the posting Scranton he has learned that USG took a stance in which to become effective in fall Hall found a banana and two policy at the Council meeting, "the most important thing is to they agreed tp endorse the free 2003. Instead of meeting on oranges in a phallic configura- she said she never received the involve the university commu- speech board, but to abstain Mondays and Wednesdays. tion beside a box of BenGay letter regarding the issue. nity in short and long-term from direct involvement. Tuesdays and Thursdays, with a pain-relieving cream in front of Instead, she said, the letter was planning and to invite people At an April 16 meeting, USG few meetings on Fridays, class- their door. The items were relayed to John Davenport, the into conversation about where voted to move ahead with the es will now meet on Mondays found following an incident in College Council representative the university is going." board. The guidelines for post- and Thursdays, Tuesdays and which an anti-homosexual com- from Lincoln Center's philoso- As for his role at FCLC, ing include no profanity, Fridays, with some classes still ment was written on the resi- phy department. McShane said he plans to be libelous comments, and com- meeting on Mondays and dents' dry-erase board that Thill said she was uncom- very involved "by being present mercial advertising. In addi- Wednesdays. The Rev. Robert hangs on their suite door. fortable reading the second let- on a regular basis and by being tion, all persons who post must Grimes, S.J., dean of Fordham Freshmen Residence Hall ter, which was handed to her available for regular conversa- include their name and contact College at Lincoln Center, said Association representative only an hour prior to the meet- tion." information. The board will that the new schedule was Meghan Woods said, "It's very ing and urged the Council to move forward without the adopted to promote efficient use disrespectful. I'd think, as col- improve the transparency of its Speech Board Plan inclusion of Justice. of classroom space. lege students, we'd be past such operations. However, Thill said Moves Ahead "Most people hated the juvenile stuff." because the letter addressed the At a Feb. 12 meeting, United Residential Life Considers schedule we have now when it In addition to the anti-homo- mechanics of the College Student Government addressed Smoking Ban was first introduced, but now sexual incidents, anti-Hispanic Council, she "did not feel com- Justice's request for a free After New York City passed they love it," said Grimes. "It and other slurs directed at fortable reading the memo speech board. After the idea smoking ban legislation in all just takes getting used to." minorities were found on dry- about the College Council to was proposed, Dean of Students public areas, Fordham's Office Lara Fenyar, FCLC'05, said, erase boards on the freshman the College Council." Christopher Rodgers suggested of Residential Life is consider- "I like the way it is now...there floors of McMahon Hall. "I learned that going through that USG take responsibility of ing a smoking ban applicable is flexibility, yet you are almost Mariel Desmond, FCLC'04, the Council to try and change it the project. to all areas of the residence always ensured Fridays off." said, "People need to treat was also not the proper chan- "Justice is a very loosely hall. McMahon Hall like a real apart- nel," she said. organized group with no execu- Residential Life Greer Jason Columbia Halftime Comment ment...In a real apartment The letter was instead read at tive officers," Rodgers told said the ban on smoking had Draws National Attention building, this behavior would a Nov. 19 meeting. After the USG at the Feb. 12 meeting. "I "been an issue for a long period A comment made by a never be tolerated." reading, College Council repre- have my reservations about of time." She added that Columbia University marching sentatives acknowledged that having such a loosely organized Fordham's Marymount College band announcer at a Columbia- Justice Members Accuse information about the college's group in charge of this. It's currently bans smoking in all Fordham game attracted nation- College Council Peer policy-making association been a slow process educating areas, including the dorms. al media attention and criticism Representatives should be made more accessible this group. I would much prefer Ann Lorincz, FCLC'03, said, from Fordham officials and stu- of Suppressing Student Voice to the student body. USG handling this because I "It's rather paternalistic." dents. Members of Justice, have more confidence in Referring to health issues The comment, "Fordham's Fordham College at Lincoln University Names [USG]. Justice could help." associated to smoking, tuition is going down like an Center's social activist group, New President USG Secretary Trevor Rodgers, said, "Should the uni- altar boy," prompted an imme- caused controversy after accus- The Rev. Joseph M. Wilson, FCLC'03, agreed and versity be opposed to some- diate letter from Fordham ing Thill of suppressing stu- McShane, S.J., former dean of said, "I think what Dean thing that will in the future kill President Joseph A. O'Hare, dents' opinions after she failed Fordham College at Rose Hill, Rodgers said is a great students?" • News May 1, 2003 page 4 Campus Prepares Final Plans for Commencement In Place For Senior Week (Continued from page I) ing efforts were part of their goal to make "Senior^ reception on May 16. Week an enjoyable time, Those events likely to rather than a financially draw the largest Lincoln burdening one." Center crowd include the Describing how the swing dance and the Senior Committee pooled the Cruise, according to funds together, Kinn said, Schwab. Referring to past "we used the set budget Senior Weeks, she said, from the Student Activities "The Senior Cruise always Budget Committee, dona- draws a large crowd as it is tions from university an extremely enjoyable offices, and our own fund evening of dinner, dancing, raising efforts to make the and being with friends, all events more affordable for while sailing around the seniors." fordham.edu city the seniors have called This year's commencement will take place at Fordham's Rose Hill campus. Above, an aerial view of the Using proceeds from the campus. home for the past four Senior Talent Show and years." The Swing Dance, Fordham University student (Continued from page 1) "I'm sure he will be a good public speaker as the kick off for this and parent T-shirts, the and have a lot of good things to say," said week of festivities, is also Committee was also able to off to the Board of Trustees for approval. Laura Ralph, FCLC'03. sure to draw attention, substantially reduce the "Ted Koppel was one of those people who were "It's pretty cool [that Koppel is speaking]," according to Schwab. ticket prices. The seniors, recommended and went through the process," Ball said Larissa Kassiano, FCRH'03. "He's a well- Tickets went on sale according to Finn, can now said. "Typically one of the honorary degree can- respected newscaster." April 7 at the Senior Salute, attend Movin ' Out! for $25, didates at Fordham gives the speech...Koppel was In addition to Koppel's speech, graduates are and according to Finn, the when it normally would chosen as someone who has some interesting also looking forward to their final days at Cruise, as predicted, is have cost $40. experiences to share.. .I'm sure he's a great speak- Fordham. already the bestseller. New Though it is still too er." Thinking about leaving Fordham in a few events like "Tea at the early to predict this year's Koppel "has won every major broadcast- weeks, Kassiano said, "I'm looking forward to Plaza" have also caught the turnout, Schwab said, ing award," according to ABC News. having a good time. I had a lot of fun here, and seniors' attention. "Senior Week events in the Among the awards are 37 Emmy Awards, six I want to make the best of it." Seniors received three past have been successful George Foster Peabody Awards, 10 duPont- Todd Giordano, FCLC'03, is excited as well. complimentary tickets at and students always look Columbia Awards, nine Overseas Press Club "I look forward to the last few weeks I will be Senior Week Ticket Sales. forward to the time when it Awards, two George Polk Awards, and two spending with the people hereV he said. Tickets were sold to seniors will be 'their' Senior 'Sigma Delta Chi Awards, the "highest honor Meanwhile, Michael Higgins, FCLC'03 is "a only and are non-transfer- Week." bestowed for public service by the Society of little bummed" that his diploma ceremony will able. Though seniors could Finn said she and the Professional Journalists." be at Rose Hill rather than FCLC's traditional only purchase one ticket for other Committee members Koppel has served as principal anchor for venue of Avery Fisher Hall in Manhattan. each event, there will be a "would love as many Nightline since the broadcast debuted in March Higgins, however, is still "excited about gradu- guest list for the Senior seniors as possible to 1980. Before that, he was an anchor, foreign ation." Cruise. attend." and domestic correspondent, and bureau chief Benjamin Chisholm, FCRH'03, says that he The Senior Week The week's events, as for ABC News. He joined ABC in 1963 as a is excited because he has family coming in all Committee has worked Schwab expressed, will be general-assignment reporter for the network's the way from California. While looking for- hard to make the events the last chance for seniors New York bureau. Most recently, he was one of ward to the entire ceremony and the people and affordable and ensure a to bond before their May 17 the "embedded" journalists covering the war events involved with it, Chisholm is counting large turnout. Schwab said Commencement and with Iraq for ABC News. on one thing to make the day perfect. the Committee's fund rais- Diploma Ceremony. • Several seniors said they are interested to "I'm really hoping for nice weather on the hear what Koppel has to say. 17th," he said. • Students Find Difference Between English Courses

By Laurel McGovern FCLC'06 professors and high school they essentially have to forget to college writing. Freshmen at FCLC have gen- STAFF WRITER teachers stress the same ideas. what they learned in high "It [the five paragraph erally found writing in college This is the first year in school. model] is fine on the AP exam more satisfying than in high FCLC - A survey recently which the discrepancy has "In high school, students because it tests how well you school because they do not feel conducted by ACT Inc., indi- occurred, according to The tend to learn according to a learn with the model," she says. as pressured about mechanics cated that a sharp split occurs Chronicle of Higher five paragraph model," she "Writing is about learning the and format. between what high school Education. said, "While in college they patterns and then coming up "I feel like writing in college teachers and college professors According to Dr. Sarah have to learn that writing is not with your own. Writing is hard has focused much more on the stress in writing skills, thus Zimmerman, director of the col- according to a model, but by in general because you're idea behind the paper and not causing a high enrollment in lege's Writing Center, the sur- logic." always learning something new the format," said Ashley college remedial writing class- vey comes as a surprise because Advanced Placement courses about it." Stevenson, FCLC'06. "Coming es. The survey, which was per- grammar and usage are the often are designed to resemble According to Zimmerman, from a New York state school, I formed in November, showed basic building blocks for writ- college courses more so than the students at FCLC who are feel like I've only written so I that college professors ranked ing. However, she adds that regular high school classes. in basic writing classes are could take the Regents exam at grammar before style and there is a difference between However, the AP exams that are taught basic writing skills. The the end of the year." structure while high school what one learns about writing in given in the spring generally classes focus more on the com- Andrew Nolan, FCLC'06, teachers often place grammar high school and what one learns require at least two essays in the ponents for building un essay said, "I enjoy writing in college behind style and structure. The in college. five paragraph format. and are preparation for the a lot more because I've found survey, which is conducted Zimmerman admits that writ- Zimmerman does not believe English composition classes that teachers don't gel ns every three years, has previ- ing can appear overwhelming that this is a problem in the tran- all freshmen are required to bogged down by mechanics as ously shown that both college for college freshmen because sition from high school writing take. they do in high school." • May 1,2003 News page 5 USG Announces Election Results for 2003/2004 School Year

Cat Wood, Olwyn Conway Brenda Giuliano, Ali Hart Spiro Ardavanis, Treasurer Elect Senior Senator Elect Senior Senator Elect Senior Senator Elect Junior Senator Elect

Peter Cassar Sean Jacques Audrey Grace, Thomas Kikis, Meghan Teich, Junior Senator Elect Junior Senator Elect Sophomore Senator Elext Sophomore Senator Elext Sophomore Senator Elext

(Continuedfrom page I) school a better place for everyone." the third executive board position, Next year's executive board and Giuliano and Ali Hart, who secured "I wish him the best and I'm winning the race for treasurer senate will install someone in the 36, 52, and 48 votes, respectively. described as "taking advantage of sure he'll do a great job," said Thill. against Guy Tardanico, who served position. Mark Durbak lost with 34 votes. new equipment and student talent" "I plan to ask him to our weekly as sophomore senator this year, by "I feel horrible Guy lost [the Junior senators wjll include The station would be a place for meeting next week and involve a wide margin of 145 to 88. election for treasurer] because I Spiro Ardavanis, Peter Cassar and students to utilize media skills him in making the agenda in order "I'm really excited about being know he would have been incredi- Sean Jacques. These three were the learned in class and apply them to to help him learn the process." elected to this position and I know ble, too," said Wood. "1 hope he only junior senatorial candidates. broadcast events, calendars, stu- In the three-way race for vice- I will do the best job I possibly will apply to be secretary." Thomas Kikis, Meghan Teich dent videos, lectures and debates. president, D'Amato defeated can," Wood said. "I've learned a In addition to the executive and Justice member Audrey Grace, "There are no responsibilities Alario by a narrow margin of lot from this year's treasurer, board, the student body also voted polled 58,44, and 53 votes, respec- here that I can't handle," Loulan seven votes, 106 to 99. Freshman Kristin Schwab [FCLC'03], about for nine student senators, three each tively, securing seats as sophomore said "1 plan to stay in contact with Shavasia Lanier received 36 votes. being unbiased, diplomatic and for next year's sophomore, junior, senators. They defeated Tim this year's leaders as a way of D'Amato was not available for fair." and senior class. D'Arduini, who won 31 votes, and learning what I don't know. I'm comment as of press time. The fourth and final executive Next year's senior senators Joe Pepe with 16 votes. ready to work with both students Cat Wood, this year's USG board position of secretary remains include Justice member Olwyn The freshman senate will be and administration to make this freshman senator, was elected to vacant because no one chose to run. Conway and incumbents Brenda elected in September. • War Results in the Destruction of Ancient Artifacts in Iraq

By Lana Naghshineh, FCLC'05 tured head of a woman from Uruk, a aesthetically valuable. It provides insight Cultural Organization (UNESCO) con- STAFF WRITER Sumerian city dating from the same era, into the lives, governments, and religions vened a meeting of some 30 experts in the and a collection of gold jewelry, also from of ancient man." field. The meeting issued recommenda- FORDHAM - Men, women, and chil- Sumeria and at least 4,000 years old. In an interview with The New York tions for an international effort to safeguard dren armed with rifles, pistols, knives, Mesopotamia, often called the "cradle Times, Raid Abdul Ridhar Muhammad, an Iraq's cultural heritage. The recommenda- axes, and clubs overran several acres of the of civilization," is the area situated between Iraqi archaeologist who had helped to tions are as follows: National Museum of Iraq on April 10. the Euphrates and Tigris Rivers, which uncover many of the artifacts in the muse- • AD museums, libraries, archives, mon- They carried irreplaceable antiquities out flow through what is today central Iraq. It um, said that he ran into the streets of uments, and sites in Iraq be guarded and on handcarts, bicycles, and wheelbarrows, was in this area that the world's first city- Baghdad looking for American soldiers to secured immediately the forces in place. while, many stuffed what they could into states emerged including the ancient help stop the looting. • An immediate prohibition placed on their pockets. Within 36 hours, over Babylonian, Sumerian, and Assyrian civi- Muhammad said that" he found an the export of'all antiques, antiquities, 170,000 Mesopotamian artifacts were lost lizations. American Abrams tank in Museum Square, works of art, books, and archives. or destroyed. The museum had been closed since the and five marines followed him back inside • An immediate ban placed on the Political science professor Susan Beck early 1990s on Saddam Hussein's order the compound and opened fire above the international trade in objects of Iraqi cul- responded to the incident with displeasure, and, like many Iraqi institutions under the looters' heads. While thousands of looters tural heritage. and said, "I certainly think that it's a Hussein regime, its practices were not left, most returned about 30 minutes later • A call for the voluntary and immedi- tragedy. 1 don't say that out of any exper- made public. Many of the items in the after the departure of the marines. ate return of cultural objects stolen or illic- tise, just as a person who loves art and museum were not part of the regular col- "I asked them to bring their tank inside itly exported from Iraq. what it can teach us about ourselves and lection, but had been stored there for safe- the museum grounds. But, they refused • That there be an immediate fact-find- others." keeping before being cataloged. and left...About half an hour later, the ing mission under UNESCO coordination In the days following the looting, According to reports by museum offi- looters were back, and they threatened to to assess the extent of damage and loss to museum officials compiled a list of the cials and employees, the United States mil- kill me, or to tell the Americans that I am a cultural property in Iraq, and that there be items stolen or destroyed. Among the itary is to blame for what is being called the spy for Saddam Hussein's intelligence, so the facilitation of international efforts in items listed are a solid gold harp from the one of the greatest cultural disasters in that the Americans would kill me. So I was assisting cultural institutions in Iraq. Sumerian era, which dates back to 3600 Middle East history. frightened, and I went home." Whether or not those recommendations B.C.E., ancient stone carvings of kings Art history major Alison Starr, FCLC American troops have intervened inter- will save future artwork is unknown and and princesses, copper shoes, and '04, held similar feelings. mittently to stop the looting and American Starr is still upset about the loss of the arti- cuneiform tablets. Tens of thousands of "Culturally, this eradicates any evidence commanders insist that their focus remains facts. these tablets had not yet been catalogued of man's earliest history that the artifacts on curbing paramilitary forces in Baghdad. Said Starr, "Any chance for further or deciphered. were able to provide," she said. 'The art of In response to the situation in Iraq, the understanding has been demolished, literal- Other missing artifacts include a sculp- that time and of that region is more than United Nations Educational, Scientific, and ly." • Commentary May 1,2003 page 6

The Observer Editorial Staff

Editor in Chief Recently, I mentioned to my younger cousin that my first concert I attended was New Kids on the Block and she responded with "who Kristen Sardis are they?" Yes, she actually said "who are they?" I couldn't believe she didn't know who they are. 1 explained to her that they were the boy band of all boy bands but 1 don't think she appreciated what I was telling her. Actually, she laughed at me. A few weeks later as the Managing Editor same cousin updated me on Amerjcan Idol, I mentioned that Paula Abdul used to be my idol. I loved her video "Opposites Attract." A blank Noelle Balnicki look crossed her face. Again, she didn't know that Paula Abdul was a singer in the early '90s. 1 adamantly told her that before Britney and News Editors J Christina there was Paula! 1 didn t want to know if she heard of Debbie Gibson because I already knew the answer. For the first time in my Jessica Arabski life, I felt old. She is going to high school next fall. I saw a glimpse of my 13-year-old self in her and I was in awe at how fast high school Susanna Hamner flew by. My brother will attend Fordham at Rose Hill in September and it's even harder to process that college went by faster than high school. I remember exactly how I felt on high school graduation day because it feels like a few weeks ago. But graduating college is a much Commentary Editor different experience than graduating grammar school and high school. At least then there was a next step already planned for us. Now, we Steven Lemongello get-a piece of paper, pat on the back and a "Good Luck." There are np definite destinations anymore. It's funny how at the last stage of our 3 Arts Editor formal education life cycle, we feel uneasier than we did eight and four years ago. Well, at least I do. I wanted my last editorial to leave Erin Potts our readers inspired since this will be the last piece I will ever write in The Observer. While I was writing down my ideas for the editorial Associate Arts Editor I stopped to read Dr. Seuss' Oh the Places You 11 Go, a gift from my boyfriend Ryan, for the first time. Nothing is more inspiring than "KID Gavin McCormack YOU'LL MOVE MOUNTAINS," and it applies to anyone facing a new adventure. So in the spirit of Dr. Seuss (and finding my inner child), I leave you with this. It's been a great year. Thanks! Features Editor Derrica McCullers

Goodbyes are hard Literary Editor When it's time to go Oona Leo But with each goodbye Assistant Literary Editor Comes a new hello Barbara McAlpine

The changes ahead are scary Sports Editor The changes ahead are tough Ryan Dover It's so hard to make sense Photo Editor Of all this stuff Jacque Shoen Associate Photo Editor But with the brain in your head Stephanie Joson And the heart in your chest Assistant Photo Editor Your courage in your pocket, you Allison Banks Just try your best Copy Editors Barbara McAlpino The road may not be straight Stephanie Joson There will be bumps, rocks and turns * Just keep your chin up Graphic Design Editor It's from these things we learn Catherine Casquero Graphic Designers Sometimes you'll be alone li'^sica Arabski And that could be a fright lessiiM Crust But you can do anything k.rtie Cior.i Hven if it takes all your might SU'pruink' losnn lesni kiirnpil Strangers and monsters liKurui Id/eng.i Might meet you on your way Lynelli' Torn". If you don't like where you are Online Editors Simply do not stay Christina Lempesis Nydia Streets You won't always get what you want You won't always get what you need Business Manager Marisa Flores In a bed of roses Assistant Business Manager There will always be some weeds Havlev Cammarata D Take a chance Faculty Advisor With the risk that you might fail Prof. Elizabeth Stone Now is all you have Get on board and set sail Graphic Design Advisor Dawn Eshelman Forgive the mistakes of others All members of the Fordham community Admit yours too are welcome io submit letters to the editor Take criticism well of The Observer, the independent student To make a better you newspaper ofFordlmm College at Lincoln Center, Address all letters to the editor to:

Success won't come easy but Letters to the Editor Don't let obstacles stand in your way The Observer Fordham University Big dreams come with big sacrifices 113 West 60th Street, Room 408 And there's always that price to pay New York, NY 10023

But you will fly high Man, you're gonna soar So close this one And open a new door

So it's time I bid you Adieu, au revoir and farewejl When our paths will cross Only time will tell With these last words I put down my pen It's been fun, it's been great I hope to see you again May 1,2003 Commentary page 7 Letters to the Editor In response to Taking Advantage of Depression Issue 12, April l

Dear Editor: I am writing in response to Justine Lopez' s article about depression. Ms. Lopez clearly has no clue about what depression is or how those who suffer from it live. First, I would just like to say that i am shocked and appalled that The Observer would even print such an offensive and utterly wrong piece of writing. Second, to say that "Charlene" faces an uphill battle because her "unwillingness to face a new day" is not only remarkably insensitive but also completely ignorant. A person with depression is not "unwilling" to face a new day, a person with depres- sion is nn-ah7° to face a new day. What' s more, to claim that this person "knows she has depression and takes com- plete advantage of the situation" only further shows Ms. Lopez's lack of knowledge about depression. Discounting stories about anxiety attacks, insomnia, and binge eating is not only mean but also seriously dangerous. These are medical conditions that can lead to serious results. I'm willing to bet that Ms. Lopez might not feel quite the same way if someone close to her was depressed and unable to cope and ended up committing suicide. Those who kill themselves rarely do so-"to get out of the work." So no, Ms. Lopez, it is not wrong or unethical to "use" your con- dition to get special considerations. If a person has a learning disability they are helped not mocked. Depression is a medical condition just like dyslexia, schizophrenia, AIDS, and cancer. Do you blame these people for their sickness? NO. Do you accuse cancer patients of "using" their sickness their for sympathy?! I would really hope not. So why berate or stigmatize those with depression? Is that not a good enough reason for you, doctor? Claims that "objectivity" should be used more are also ridiculous. Students are people and as people, each student has differ- ent needs. Teachers should be subjective when deciding whether someone is in need of special assistance. Those without hearts may be able to handle people as objects, people as students, but anyone worthy of the title of pro- fessor should be able to use their heart as much as their head when making tough decisions. While I agree that doc- umentation is needed from a professional, you should be very careful when deciding which sicknesses are worthy of consideration. And finally Ms. Lopez, it is more than fair that other students be penalized for late assignments and missed classes. But it is these people who whine about people like Charlene because they are bitter themselves. It almost sounds like you are jealous of Charlene for having depression. Such a reaction is strange and I recom- mend you visit the counseling center to talk about why you would be jealous of someone with a sickness like depres- sion. Believe me, your lazy reasons for not wanting to do your work are FAR easier to deal with than Charlene's real inability to do hers. She does not have to meet the same deadlines as everyone else because she is not like everyone else. Shame on you for writing such a thoroughly un-researched and I must say, stupid rant and shame on The Observer for publishing it.

Trevor Wilson Secretary, United Student Government

In response to Flashlight Brown Issue 13, April 24

To the Editor:

As a pop-punk fan, I was a bit perturbed when I read Catherine McNelly7s review of the genre. First off, I disagree with her conclusion that "...pop-punk is, unfortunately, for the most part, here to stay." Popular music is so cyclical that people were predicting years ago that punk would be the next big thing after the boy band craze. It's exactly what happened ten years ago when New Kids on the Block and their ilk hit it big, dis- appeared, and suddenly it was 1992, "the year punk broke." So we only have a year or two before the labels move on. Secondly, to write an article about pop-punk (and I realize the article was really about Flashlight Brown, but a good por- tion of it was dedicated to pop-punk) and only mention Good Charlotte, New Found Glory, Simple Plan, etc is unfair to the genre. Sure, these are the newest bands who call what they do 'pop-punk,' (which I do not think is an appropriate label for their style of music, but that' s beside "the point) but what about the bands that have been together for much longer and still continue to not make - and in some cases, lose — money; the bands who still have day jobs to go back to when they7 re not touring? I have a friend who plays drums in - no kidding - seven different bands, and who spends his days working at a supermarket so he can get time off whenever he gets the chance to tour. For some reason there's a stigma attached to pop-punk ballyf1tness.com that everyone in a pop-punk band is in it for the money, which is just not true. Get in swimsuit shape without having to eat air. With a Bally Total Lastly, I hope by your mention of The Ramones you' re not say- Fitness Stlldeilt Membership, you can work out for ing that they were anything but pop-punk. Many of the bands fOUr months at any of our 370 state-of-the-art facilities who started what we think of as the punk genre were pop-punk. nationwide fOr Only $144. And, you'll have the option of The Ramones, Buzzcocks, the Dickies, and the Undertones were all staying a member for just $24 a month:Our clubs offer the most there at the founding of the punk rock movement and were all pop-punk. Innovative workout classes, the latest fitness equipment and And to those people who think I'm getting awfully worked up customized nutritional programs. over nothing much, please keep, in mind that .writing this let= Get started today: ter to the editor is helping me procrastinate about writing a paper. 1-800-WORKOUT Must be between the ages of 18-23 and have a valid student ID to qualify for student membership. Renewal dues Best Wishes, subject to Increase. Written notice required to cancel renewal option. Some restrictions apply. Additional charges Patrick Smith, FCLC'05 for some services. An Equal Opportunity Club. O2003 Bally Total Fitness Corporation. Commentar May 1,2003 Where Has All the News Gone? By Savannah FarrfeCfflbert, PCLCflS will be laid-off in the process as STAFF WRITER well. The July 2003 Police Academy classes will be can- With the prospect of peace in celed, meaning that the police the Middle East, the newspapers department will remain with and media forums in the United only 35,850 officers. Over States have focused on the fight- 1,700 administrative and cleri- ing in Iraq. It is important to cal jobs in the Police know how the war is transpir- Department will also be elimi- ing, but what is going on here in nated. All of this will affect the New York is being overshad- number of children and officers owed. In New York, Mayor on the streets. While children Michael R. Bloomberg is under- will be left without after-school going several new prospects. programs that would before Why is it that information that is keep them busy and out of trou- important and just as imperative ble, a possible police officer as the war, is being pushed into shortage will only draw more the background? The war is in danger into the city. another world, but living in All of these proposals will be New York, I want to be put into affect before the end of informed of policies and legisla- the year. Bloomberg's plans for tion that directly affect my city the city have definitely been and me now, at this moment. overshadowed by the war in On the April 15, Mayor Iraq. These plans, however, will greatly affect every person liv- Bloomberg announced propos- GregoryBull-APiwashlngtonpost.com als to help the city meet a ing in New York City. planned $600 million in savings Hey, don't ask me! I'm just the mayor. Thousands of people are going before the end of the fiscal year. to lose their jobs. Hundreds of This plan includes the closing of animals will lose their homes, the Prospect Park and Queens workers will lose their jobs in Human Services Planning and countless children will lose Zoos and the displacement of all layoffs and consolidations. The The war is in Council will now be run out of the educational benefits of sum- the animals that call these facil- cuts will "include 941 another world, the Department of Health, not mer school and after-school pro- ities home, including endan- Sanitation Department employ- the mayor's office. All of these grams. To me this seems just as gered monkeys and wallabies. ees, 848 workers at the but living in New cuts will be put into effect in important, if not more, than the Over 160 mammal, bird, and Administration for Children's York, I want to order to close the $3t8 billion war in Iraq. These stories are reptile species will have to find Services and 463 Correction be informed of budget gap. front-page worthy, but do not new homes. Along with the Department employees," Bloomberg's cuts will also appear on the front page. The closing of both zoos, funding according to city officials. policies and affect public schools in the city news priority has shifted when it shouldn't have. These are the for the New York Aquarium in Several city departments will be legislation that and the Police Department. Brooklyn and the Bronx Zoo folded into other departments. After-school educational pro- issues that are affecting us right will be greatly reduced. The Department of directly affect my grams and summer school for now, and whether we are informed of them or not, the city Bloomberg also announced Employment will fold into the all but those students who are city and me now, will be feeling the effects of his plan for layoffs in virtually Department of Human failing will be eliminated. Bloomberg as Mayor soon. • every city agency. Over 5,000 Resources. The HIV Health and at this moment. Additionally, 426 school aids The Fall of the CNN Empire

By Bryan Lamaj, FCLC'04 under Hussein's regime. An I was the Central Intelligence against Iraq. STAFF WRITER example of information that Agency's Iraq station chief." How dare Jordan was apprehensive to If the American public knew Mr. Jordan let I am upset, but more than release came from a detailed this, the war against Iraq might his colleagues just that, I am outraged by CNN description in his article of the not have happened. If Jordan suffer and and its chief news executive methods used to torture reported the truth, the United allow the Eason Jordan, for withholding reporters: "...in the mid-1990 States government might not Hussein gov- information from the American one of our Iraqi cameramen have needed to use the armed ernment to public. Since the toppling of the services to liberate Iraq, when it continue their Saddam Hussein regime, By keeping could have instead received war crimes Jordan released an article on international support to oust against April 11 captivating the brutali- information from Hussein from power. mankind. 1 do Courtesyofcnn.com ty that the Hussein regime Jordan also defended himself not hold the CNN chief News Executive Eason Jordan: the real afflicted on Iraqi civilians and the public, Jordan by saying that CNN would not Hussein regime enemy in this war. on American reporters before be able to report any news if he responsible for Operation: Iraqi Freedom. not only reported told the truth because the brutalizing and blackmailing Iraqi news that had no impact Jordan's main argument for Hussein regime would have the innocent, since the toward the American public. why he did not release any his story thrown CNN out of Iraq if he American government already Even though Jordan argued he information to the American did. Does it really matter if knew the atrocities of what kept quiet to save the lives of public about this was because if inaccurately, but he CNN was forced to leave Iraq if Hussein's regime was capable his colleagues, he also was he did it would jeopardize the also jeopardized the its reporting was not even hon- of during the Gulf War. Had scared to tell the truth because lives of his colleagues that were est or newsworthy? As "The Americans known what his own life was endangered captured by the Hussein lives of millions of Most Trusted Name in News," Hussein was doing during the and so he allowed his col- regime, as well as lead to CNN showed that doing its job mid-1990s, war could have leagues to become nothing but CNN's expulsion from Iraq. Iraqis and many fair and balanced just did not been avoided. Without this commodities. What Jordan did By keeping information matter when restricting infor- knowledge, however, the was a cowardly act. He is noth- from the public, Jordan not American reporters. mation from the American pub- United States did not have the ing more than an accomplice of only reported his story inaccu- lic. Instead, Jordan covered political incentive to oust the Hussein regime. He is rately, but he also jeopardized was abducted. For weeks he insignificant events, such as Hussein during that time. morally responsible for the the lives of millions of Iraqis was beaten and subjected to Saddam's birthday, when he I hold responsible Mr. Jordan thousands of lives lost in Iraq and many American reporters. electroshock torture in the could have reported the truth for having the choice to report during the reign of Saddam Jordan's main argument for basement of a secret police about the dictator's oppressive either the truth of what Hussein and because of withholding information was headquarters because he regime. Telling the truth could Hussein's terror regime was Jordan's inappropriate display to save the lives of his col- refused to confirm the govern- have certainly made a differ- doing to innocent Americans of journalism he should be tried leagues who were held captive ment's ludicrous suspicion that ence today when going to war and Iraqis, or irrelevant local for war crimes. O May 1,2003 Commenta] The NHL Playoffs: Devil Worship or Phonics Gone Awry?

By Jacquc Shoen, FCLC'03 cracks when you live thousands is "pat-trick WAH," and Nikolai STAFF WRITER of miles away for a four-year Khabibulin is "Nikolai rm-not- span. He missed out on the exactly-sure-still." Even their So here I am, sitting with my early stages of my budding lit- nicknames can make you laugh: cousin, watching ESPN - hock- erary career; I, apparently, have Curtis Joseph is "CuJo," the ey to be precise: never in my missed out on the glorious sport rabid canine namesake of the wildest dreams did 1 ever think called NHL Playoff Hockey. I Stephen King novel. that when 1 reflect upon my know, how did I ever survive? Lest you accuse me of a bias Fordham experience, blue lines, The first thing that I found that would lead me to single out five-hour long games, and some totally absurd about the sport is international players, silent let- guy named Satan would be such that there's this line (unceremo- ters curse American-born play- a vivid element to my educa- niously dubbed "the blue line" ers, too. Keith Tkachuck's tion. due to its blue color - shocking, name would be easy to pro- How on Earth did I get here? isn't it?) that basically would nounce if not for the completely My couch I mean, watching 10 take up the entirety of this arti- unnecessary "T" in his last grown men chase a piece of cle for me to list all the possible name. Ron Tugnutt? I'm not frozen rubber across what I scenarios under which a player even going to comment on that AP And a great save by Tugnutt! would call an ice skating rink? can cross this God-forsaken one. Normally I would be doing a line. So I sti|l don't get it. This was my fun for the always said I liked to go to puck, was knocked out, and paper or reading a book about Next, there's the marathon night. We drank beer, ate hockey games more than any subsequently went a little the Middle East, with the news length of games. This is a point pizza, and Stuart told me other sport, mainly because of crazy, I have relegated myself or Friends in the background. that needs a paragraph all its many things about hockey I the sporadic fights. But after to staying indoors doing home- The truth is, my cousin Stuart, own. didn't care to know and a few hearing about a family friend work instead of going out to as different from me as the My cousin has demanded things I did. To be honest, I who got hit in the nose with a games. D coasts we hail from - laid back, that I make note of the ultra-hip, tan, and loyal to his fact that playoff hock- masculine instincts (i.e., the lust ey is entirely different for competition) - has been my from regular hockey confidant since childhood and altogether. He told me , y J can somehow lure me into that it may as well be - -\ .<, considered a spdft all :, Without a lesson in its own. The first rea- , , pronunciation, it's son for this is the idea virtually impossible that a game can, as I ADVANTAG to converse with a now understand, take hockey fan about forever. It occurred to some of the game's me at this point that a OP SUM players. Miroslav playoff hockey game Satan bears no bears some semblance Two convenient sessions: affiliation to the to college; for all I guy Catholics love know, both could take June 2 -June 25 & June 30 six years to finish. My (No Friday classes) to hate, as his last cousin told me of a name is spoken as game in 2000 that last- "sha-TAN" ed for five 20-minute • Faculty hailed as "world c something I have absolutely no overtimes plus three desire to explore. Perhaps it's 20-minute "regulation by the London Times due to the mere 11 days which periods," which on elapsed between our births in their own can typically the first year of the great decade last a good three hours. • Over 4OO Undergraduate & heralded by the number "8" or But take heart; some of Graduate Classes offered in perhaps it's out of a lack of any the sport's absurdity is other sane family member; quite amusing - the day & evening regardless, the two of us have occasional fight, cute shared a relationship more like boys, and a bit of • A chance to pursue new interests Siamese twins than your stan- downright grace show- dard father's-brother's-son kind cased while scoring a from astronomy to theatre of relationship. The point is, not much is kept from the other. Perhaps the'greatest • Convenient on-campus parking available' For example, over the last element of hockey for year, I've heard all about his the non-fan, however, new career since graduating can be had at a simple from Loyola Marymount glance at a player's For a Schedule of Classes or to download an application, University, "the Harvard of the backside. I'm talking, visit us at www.qc.edu West" as he always likes to say. of course, about the He's taken a job in education, names on their jerseys. apparently the only job that his Without a lesson in degree in Latin and pronunciation, it's vir- Archaeology merits that does- tually impossible to n't involve traveling to war- converse with a hock- torn parts of the world. The job ey fan about some of also gives him access to an the game's players. indulgence, which until recent- Miroslav Satan bears ly, had been suppressed by no affiliation to the what he calls "intense academ- guy Catholics love to ic activity" deep in the heart of hate, as his last name is Tinseltown; he instructs the spoken as "sha-TAN." youth of America in the highly Goalies, Stuart said, dysfunctional sport of football. are particularly tricky: Some things, however, Guy Hebert is "gee inevitably slip through the EH-bear," Patrick Roy Features May 1,2003 page 10 It doesn't Have to All CailCUIl or Baha

Be Early Morning By Amanda Cruz, FCLC'03 acrobatic STAFF WRITER and trapeze acts, a la Coffee and Late Night As the semester comes to a Cirque du close, students ponder what to Soleil or the fresh coconut drinks. do during summer vacation. If Ring li ng Although The Stapling and Filing you're looking for somewhere Brothers cir- Bahamas lacks the to go, I recommend a place to cus. The wild parties of Find a Fun Summer Job lie down in the sun and forget entertain- Cancun, the daily about books, papers, and ment of excursions are simi- By Catherine Horath, FCLC'04 screaming at the top of your exams. This year's economic CocoBongo is equaled in all lar. Such excursions include STAFF WRITER lungs like a lunatic, your boss commotion has made everyone Cancun's nightclubs. Balloons, snorkeling, scuba diving, para- would compliment you on "all want to find a place to get away confetti, and streamers are a sailing, swimming with dol- Whether your summer plans your hard work." Secondly, you from it all. For those afraid of regular occurrence in any phins, riding mopeds, and jet- involve a step in the right career will be at every game! being stranded on an island, evening. Drinks for the patrons skiing. These excursions may path or an interesting way to You will witness the over- Cancun is one such place. and mist for the performers cost anywhere from $30 for spend your time while earning a whelming feelings of defeat and Otherwise, the Bahamas is both keep everyone wet and cool! snorkeling to $100 for swim- little more money to spend, fun joy all in a day's work. If there's beautiful and desirable. Their Other famous nightclubs in ming with dolphins. Diving and should be at the top of all your a grand slam, no hitter, come- differences, and similarities, Cancun include Senor Frogs, snorkeling are both entertaining summer employment endeav- back win, series sweep or per- can help you choose which Dady'O, Fat Tuesday, and La because they allow you to see ors. fect game you will be there. You location is more to your taste. Boom. Entrance usually costs and touch the fish and stingrays I speak from my own experi- will be a part of sports history in Everything you hear about 100 pesos, or approximately under water. The tropical fish ence in the past years; I have the making and when you look Cancun is true! There are two $ 10. Once inside, you are greet- are beautiful and colorful - well done both the most boring and back after 30 or so years and parties every night on every ed by the familiar dance sounds worth seeing! For more of a most time-consumingjobs for a relate the story to your grand- block. The nightclubs in of house music, hip hop, reggae thrill, try jet-skiing; pushing the small amount of spending children, you will not hesitate Cancun are exciting and unique. and R&B. throttle into full gear is very money. In the end, it really was when you say, "we had a great Imagine this scenario: "you The Bahamas, on the other invigorating! For a break from not worth it. But, this summer is year". After all, you were a fan, dance for hours in CocoBongo, hand, is more family-oriented. partying or tanning, make sure going to be dif- an employee, until, surprise! Out pop The clubs and bars are toned your vacation includes an ferent for me and most of all Spiderman and Superman, who down. The islands have fewer excursion. and for you if Try working ft you felt every begin dancing with the crowd. parties. Visitors are more So, if you're still pondering you follow an ice cream win and every After a few minutes, the cos- inclined to shop, or take a stroll. your summer plans, look no fur- loss in a way tumed characters convene at the Many may choose to simply ther! Choose between Cancun and when only an insider stage in the center of the club. relax on the beach and tan as and the Bahamas, and book a eould The n| There, they perform different me to your boss is not °' y cabana boys serve them with trip as soon as you can! G take to you to a* downsides could place never Jjjer be the sweltering seen: the drunken able cones to enraged fans and job. extra innings that When think- cutest kid or mean late-night ing about sum- guy home from clean-ups. mer and all its So maybe you warm bliss, college who are not a sports what is the first flashes a smile. fan either, but thing that you still have the Going to law school? comes to mind? urge for paid The beach! Of course it's the summer fun. Try working for an beach, how could it not be? ice cream truck and when your What better than to work all boss is not looking, offer free Take This New Course First summer basking in the sweet cones to the cutest kid or the rays of sun? The logical job on guy home from college who Get Higher Law School Grades. the beach would be lifeguard. flashes a smile. But you say you can't swim? For all you aspiring small Kresge Law Prep is a revolutionary course that teaches you—before you Don't worry. There is a solu- town, Page Six columnists, ask start law school—the best study methods to use in law school. The course tion - be the cabana boy/girl at your local paper to hire you as the local beach resort. Think a gossip columnist and dig up takes you through an actual first-term subject, torts, using these about it this way: you may not all the dirt on your local gov- study methods. The methods are continually reinforced, and you apply them get all the glory the lifeguard ernment officials, but be aware in practice exams. receives, but there is a bigger that you may be outlawed in The course begins May 27, after the spring term ends. It is given in chance of a summer romance the town after your expose mid town Manhattan. between you and the pleasant runs. Unlike other programs, this is not a short overview of a course or courses. drink orders that always seem Personally, seeing as this is Kresge Law Prep is the real thing. Thirty-six hours of evening classes over to end in flirtatious smiles. my last summer "break" before six weeks, using a real casebook. It's for serious students who want to get a Even if your summer doesn't entering the real world, I plan to running start and go to the top of their law school class. show a glimpse of romance, the enjoy it. There will be no nine- You also get free online access to the teacher during your first law tips are always a plus. If there is to-five office job or unpaid school term. He'll help you apply your new study skills and answer questions no local resort, become an internship where I will be stuck about torts. employee of the Beach in a freezing office making Donald Kresge, your teacher, is a graduate of Columbia College and Umbrella rental stand. This way copies of "important docu- Yale Law School. He is a former law professor who is now a trial lawyer in ments" while the sun, begging you can make some cash, still New York City. be at the beach, but have the for my company, beats loudly When you finish Kresge Law Prep, you'll be ready to excel in every course luxury of shade and your dis- on the floor-to-ceiling win- you take in law school. And you'll have a jump on torts. posal. dows. Enrollment is limited. Apply now. Perhaps the beach is not your If all else fails and you are in preferred place of employment. desperate need of some quick www.kresgelawprep.com 212-986-3500 Are you a sports fan? How cash, you could always sell you about being one of those crazy blood or sign up to get paid for souvenir vendors at the baseball an experiment at your local col- KRESGE LAW PREP games? This job is so perfect lege biology lab. It may not be that 1 don't even know if I have fun, but, if you made it this far Prep Now lor Law School Success to mention all the reasons why. in the article, fun is not what First, when you walk around you're after. G 60 East 42nd Street, Suite 565 New York, NY 10165 May 1,2003 Features page 11 Fordham Farewell... Some Final Words for the Class of 2003

"Congratulations f pom ~ Brett Thombs, journey to what I hope the University Teaching Fellow - is great success. But do Bookstore" Psychology not ever stop growing ~ The Staff of the FCLC and learning...There's "Congratulations Natural Bookstore lots more to know and Science majors. We to do. Again. Congrats!" "To the graduating miss you already! It has ~ Fitzroy A. Christian, class of 2003. Best of been our pleasure to Supervisor, Computer luck and much success watch the gradual Lab in that big, old world increase in the glow of out there. It was great that learning lamp with- "It seems like you just meeting you guys. in you that ignited with got here but we're sure Congratulations." your hard work. Thank you're ready to move on "Wishing everyone the FCLC'05 ~ Shirley Carr, Sodexho you for the gift that in the world." best of luck! We finally "I would like to con- Mariott Dining Services you have given us." ~ Father Grimes, Dean of did it and now the best gratulate all seniors for Cashier ~ The Faculty of the FCLC is yet to come." having done well and for Natural Sciences ~ Abigail Ortega, "It was a pleasure having finally graduat- "Congratulations to FCLC'03 graduating LC ' "Best of luck to the sharing the past four ed. I wish you all the Psychology majors! We class of 2003!" years with you. I wish "Thanks to all the very best in your future know you will make your ~ FCLC Assistant Deans' you all the best in the seniors for four years endeavors and may your Fordham professors Office challenging years ahead. of dedication to the lives be fruitful and proud. A special con- Remember that learning Fordham community. I successful in the real gratulations to some of "Happiness and success does not end on com- wish you all the best world. Also, special my star pupils: SAA, LT, to the class of 2003." mencement day, but of luck in future shout outs to Mike and the group. My best ~ The Quinn Library continues throughout endeavors and through- Kelly, Eric Thorner, to all of you." Staff your life. New experi- out life." Amy Bleier, and Sestino ~ Dr. Monica Rivera "However difficult ences and developments ~ Peter Cassar, CSA Baronel You will all be Mindt, Ph.D., Assistant future circumstances will always teach you . President, FCLC05 missed." Professor of Psychology may be, remember you new and exciting ways ~ Stephanie Perez, CSA "I would like to con- s are your only impedi- of looking at life and Program Coordinator, gratulate you guys on "I send a warm and ment and your best the opportunities it FCLC05 making it through these genuine thanks to mem- strength." brings. Be flexible and four years. Your class bers of Fordham's ~ Helen Ceballo- always willing to learn "Rock on. Keep on will represent Fordham graduating class of Hernandez, Higher while remaining firmly trucking. You are the to the entire world and 2003 who made my Education Opportunity grounded in the solid shizat for sheezy my from being a sophomore first year teaching a Program Counselor values." neezy. It's just your and seeing you guys at wonderfully memorable ~ Clive Daniel, Associate sizzle, for rizzle, my work, I know you will one. I have no doubt at "Congratulations! You've Chair, Department of nizzles." do well." all that you will do completed the first Economics ~ Adam Santos-Coy, ~ -Johnny Rivera, great things." major step in your life's FCLC04 G Textbooks?! I don't think so! College students are leaving their books behind in search of opportunities elsewhere

By Michael Zakrzewski, FCLC'04 been set as a convention over following their own. Many fac- stab at it my way." what my true passion in life is, STAFF WRITER time. From generation to gen- tors feed into the decision; it is "My way" has become the fashion." eration the ideal of a college not just an act of rebellion way to live life. Making the Financial circumstances are Idolized conventions are diploma has been so instilled against the "idolized standard." rules as you go has become a great contributors to the future changing in the fast-paced that breaking away from "the Exploring personal horizons, trademark of society. of one's college career. Filling world we are living in. way" is a demonic act. financial restrictions and per- Possessing a creative mind and out a FAFSA form in the hopes Everything from dating to the An increasing number of col- sonal ideals play a role in the a passion for design, aspiring of it being a ticket to much way we buy our food has been lege students are taking time off decision making process. Los Angeles fashion designer needed bucks for school, many transformed as a result of the from school for good, leaving Hopes of making it in the Anoosha Ana Foroughi utilized are left disappointed. With lim- momentum our lives have in search of their true passions music industry is what drove both.Sketch books and sewing ited household incomes, some picked. The standards that our often leading in a direction Sheela Raman to leave Brown machines fill her apartment. students just don't have the mothers and fathers lived by away from the convention: University during her sopho- She said teaching herself how opportunity to attend college have, for the most part, been studying at a university. Law, more year. Breaking free from to sew has allowed this "what- and often learn to steer their chucked out the window. OUR medical and business textbooks school and moving to San to-be" designer to live life. lives in another direction. A for- standards are the blueprint; are being replaced by sketches, Francisco was a move that was She says, "I think that I'm mer college advisor at Murry there is no longer one way to do cutouts and reels of film. not looked upon happily by her getting a head start by not going Bergtraum High School, Neil things. Lines have been blurred, Trying to make it big or make it parents. Reflecting back on to college. A degree doesn't Remland says, "The idea of and the new social convention by working for themselves is a what drove her to move, she mean you'll get employment going to college has taken the is NO convention. top priority. With the economy says, "I understood their frus- automatically. In the end it's all back seat for many of the stu- Most parents have this dream on a downward spiral and the tration with me and my decision about who you know and not dents I've advised, and it sad- for their children; a dream that job market weak, the mentality to move, but I had to do it. It what you know. I 'm doing what dens me. They are aware that it includes attending college. In of many students seems to be, was something that I felt would I love and I can't imagine doing is close to impossible, finan- the minds of parents, college is "what's the point of all this?" make me happy and something anything else. I have a talent cially, for them to go off to a a doorway to success, wealth, More and more people are that I was doing for me. I know that is unique to me and I don't four year university. With only knowledge and most important- breaking away from their it seems selfish, but you only feel that college will enhance ly happiness. The dream has assigned parental dream and live once and I want to take a that in any way beneficial to (Continued on page 12) Features May 1,2003 page 12 A Change of Pace The Converse Comeback A Fordham student By Natalie Galasso, FCLC'04 shares why she STAFF WRITER It started with a subway spot- decided to walk in ting - on, of course, the 9 down- town, the province of the Chuck AIDS Walk 2003 Taylor. A young girl, maybe late teens, clean cut, quietly sport- By Corinne lozzio, FCLC'05 ing a sleek pair of low top black STAFF WRITER converse, a skirt and what appeared to be a shrunken Izod What could possess a college boys polo. She looked classy, student to wake up at sunrise on cool, and a little uptown with a of all things. larly the high-top black model, the first weekend of summer dash of downtown. Looking The Chuck has emerged once became synonymous with punk vacation? I'm not getting paid; like she spoke seven languages, again, yet is no longer simply rock after The Clash and this is actually costing me and wore vintage Sex Pistols tees, for the punk rocker. It has hit its Blondie caught onto the trend. my family and friends money. and spent her nights sipping mainstream stay once again, In the eighties, the Chuck was Even so, 1 will lace up my run- mojitos. cropping up in fashion and donned as a fashion accessory, ning shoes and grab a bottle of That's when I knew. The lifestyle magazines paired with teenagers doodling and auto- water. It's going to be a long Converse Chuck Taylor was designer clothes. Donna F of graphing each other's as a walk. How can we stand by when back in the mainstream. After The Donnas, a girl punk rock trend. On May 18 at 9 a.m., sign-in there is something we can do to that first sighting last summer, it group, says, "You see Chucks For the Chuck, it was the for AIDS Walk New York help? We take our cue from our appeared Converse were all everywhere now, paired with nineties that proved to be unre- begins in Central Park. Every predecessors, who walked in over, particularly in the halls of designer dresses and you ceptive to their appeal. The year thousands of New Yorkers the face of adversity and death. FCLC and on the feet of "hip- always feel kinda embarrassed economy was rolling and the stride through the 10 kilometer It is my duty as a healthy able- sters" the world over. Low top for them. Like they don't appeal of the cheap and simple walk benefiting Gay Men's bodied person to make a contri- chucks in black, among other belong." No matter your opin- clown-like rubber and canvas Health Crisis (GMHC). GMHC bution. Not only do I have to assorted colors, have been all ion on the democratization of shoe was shot. The company sponsors AIDS education pro- ensure that I do something, I over the place as of late. They Converse, the sneakers are as filed for bankruptcy in the late grams and care for those infect- have to make certain that any- are under pants and skirts, over ail-American as apple pie and nineties only to be rocketed ed with the virus. Its leaders one who can help does. tights, or a tight pair of jeans, baseball. back to popularity as of late. yet markedly more dressed up Conceived in 1908, the prod- • Yet, what is it about the The people who started the AIDS Walk than the Cons of yesterday. ° uct of the Converse Rubber Co., Chuck Taylor that it has sus- in 1985 are now the ones who need its Nowadays, they seem a they grew to notoriety when tained an almost cult-like status flashback to a time when things famed basketball player Chuck for years, mostly with aging help the most They are the sickly and were a little simpler and a lot Taylor started endorsing their baby boomers and those famil- more wholesome. Buying the basketball sneakers around iar with the (real) indie and weak. Now, they are the people who basic sneaker seems appropriate 1918. Taylor, a likeable and punk rock scene? wish they could walk but sadly cannot somehow. Who needs the bling competent player, was the per- Well, the sneaker is aerody- bling of flashy sneaks when you fect choice to pitch the sneak- namic with its basic oval shape also lobby to keep research in For that reason, walkers can buy good old rock n' roll ers. They were soon the shoes and lightweight slipper-like the foreground of national spend the weeks prior to the Cons for a mere $30? Yet the of choice among basketball feel. It is almost always in style, health concerns. walk gathering donations from most notable difference in the players everywhere until big whether sported as a basic or Each person who participates anyone who is willing to help. Chuck trend this time around is corporations like Nike and retro, and it goes with almost in the walk has her own reason. We encourage everyone to its reincarnation as a trendy, Adidas started taking control of anything. The most appealing Some walk for themselves, donate. This is not a frivolous almost preppy, sneaker. the athletic sneaker arena in the thing about converse perhaps is some walk for friends, some for causej we're not selling cookies Squeaky-clean Reese early 1980s. Chuck Taylors their inexpensive price range, lovers, and some for no one in or light bulbs. This money can Witherspoon and pop princess continued on as leisure shoes anywhere from $29 to 40. You particular. Many of us know actually save and prolong lives. Avril Lavigne have been seen throughout the 1970s and certainly get the bang for your someone, living or deceased, Without the efforts of GMHC sporting their Chucks around 1980s, when they started churn- buck with these bad boys. As who has grappled with AIDS. and its participants, AIDS edu- town, whereas it was previously ing out fashion colors and pat- Ana-Mercedes Cardenas, Personally, I walk for those who cation would not reach the the domain of indie types like terns. Converse, or Chuck FCLC'04, says of her cannot. Those who are bed-rid- entire country. Now, children in Winona Ryder and The Cure, Taylors as the most popular Converse, "I've worn Converse den and whom we have already elementary school know what both big fans of the ubiquitous model was called, were rock n' since middle school, whether lost know the importance of the disease is, how it is trans- sneaker. The Lavigne fad of roll royalty as legendary bands, they're trendy or not. They're AIDS education and awareness. mitted, and most importantly wearing black cons even particularly of the punk rock the epitome of cool, cheap, and I am proud to represent them. how to avoid contracting it. cropped up in YM under persuasion such as the comfortable. What else could Ramones, started wearing them. I am a healthy walker The people who started the "Things We're Obsessed Witrf,^ you ask for?" because of those who have AIDS Walk in 1985 are now the right next to Justin Timberlake The Chuck Taylor, particu- walked in the past. According ones who need its help the to GMHC, over $64 million has most. They are the sickly and been raised in the New York weak. Now, they are the people walk alone. That money who wish they could walk but allowed me to learn about AIDS sadly cannot. I walk for them. I Textbooks?!•..•.I don't think so! and HIV (the virus that causes walk out of respect for the great AIDS) before it was too late. I tradition and organization that have been given an opportunity they fostered. I walk out of {Continued from page 11) r to protect myself; I have the gratitude for the education that 1 warning that the generation received as a child. I walk in a high school diploma in their hand, I feel as if many of the students dive straight into the deep end before me did not. I know how 1 .w-mory of those whom we Without regret after graduation." • * to protect myself because of the have lost. Most importantly, I Possessing nothing more then a high school diploma, Hubert Gorka has worked himself up to assis- previous generation. They took walk for those in the future; 1 tant marketing director at Musicratna records. Choosing a road much less traveled, very much against the time and energy to rise from believe that my participation on his parents traditional and strict ideologies about education, Mr. Gorka says, "I chose not to attend col- the affliction of the 1980s AIDS May 18 can and will save the lege because it was just simply not for me. I understand how going to college maybe considered a cru- epidemic and raise awareness. life of a child in an elementary cial part of someone's life, but I honestly think that it is not for everybody." Experience proved to be They knew that they could save school health education class- his greatest teacher. "I've learned so much by taking 'the risk' of not going to college, but working and thousands, or millions, in the room. And for that, I can be being in the environment I'm in, has taught me lessons that no textbook or professor would ever offer." future. When they could have proud, „ .Breaking the tradition and creating a mold for one's own life has been the recent trend. Aspects of fallen and accepted a grim fate, For further information about life are no longer clearly defined; there is room for interpretation and reinvention in everything we do. they stood up to save people this year's AIDS Walk New The college experience is no longer seen as an event everyone must live through in order to feel com- they didn't know — even peo- York and how to donate or par- plete. Marching to the beat of one's own drum is key in today's day and age. The motto of film-maker ple who hadn't been born yet. ticipate visit: Travis Foster Kopach seems to echo through the growing yuppie population: "Live life to the fullest This drive is where walkers, http://www.aidswalk.net/ne and make your own rules; if they turn out to be bad rewrite them as you go along." G like myself, find our passion. wyork. Fordham College Lincoln Center 2003 Senior Class Gift

Honor Roll as of April 25, 2003 Number of Donors: 32 (9% of Class) Young Alumni President's Club Members: 17 Participation G

Brigitte Arle Shajida McNab* Amy Bleier* Claudia MacPherson Jennifer M. Capasso* John Mauro Pamela J. Corn* Alison Maschmeyer Nirva Dogramaciyan* Peter Mele Tara Engler Kimberly O'Grady Samara Finn* Brigid E. O'Leary* Melissa Flaccavento* Rebecca Prindable* Tara Goodwin Lisa Seewagen* Jacqueline Guzman Shalini Singh* Antonietta Iacovino Liam Strain* Glenn T. Johnson Eric David Thorner* Michael J. Kelly* Lynelle Torres* Nahede Khosrovi* Lisa Tschernkowitsch Beatrice LaBarge Karen Wong Elaine Loeven* Xiao Lin Wu

*Denotes Young Alumni President's Club Member It's not too late to make a gift to the Father O'Hare Scholarship Fund! The Board of Advisors for Undergraduate Education at Fordham Lincoln Center is going to match the SENIOR CLASS GIFT dollar for dollar! Now your gifts double!!!!

We hope that you will make a gift before you leave campus!

For more information, please contact Mari-Chris in the Office of Development & University Relations at x.6573, 212-636-6573, or via e-mail at [email protected]. Arts & Culture May 1,2003 page 14 Warning: Nutty Thai Ahead From the Bookstore to the Big Screen

By Kristine Ducusin, FCLC'04 STAFF WRITER

After a long day slaving away in the sweltering heat at a mini- mum wage job in some random theme park you hate, or fetching trays of bagels and pungent iced coffees for the boss you loathe at your unpaid summer internship, make use of your free time, pick up a great book, and create your own summer reading list. Or at least an entertaining movie adapted from a good book. Many of this year's Oscar contenders were based on books, from J.R.R Tolkien's Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers and Michael Cunningham's The Hours, to Herbert Asbury's Gangs of Mew York. The mass amount of books being adapted into films is almost never -ending. However, as great literature transforms into whimsical, popcorn films, many literary purists agree with a comment made by Robert Segedy, a head buyer for Mclntyre's Fine Books, in an article for Reed Business Information US. "The best that could happen is that J.P. Mangalindan With its psychedelically modulated enviorns, VYNL is a throwback to years ago. Hollywood buys your book and then never makes it into a movie," he said. "That way you get the money, but they don't screw up your story." By J.P. Mangalindan, FCLC'05 Sauce and Chili Jam was succu- with uncontrollable peanut but- With movie tie-ins prevailing in the literary world, purists cringe STAFF WRITER lent. Lightly fried to tasty gold- ter fetishes like myself. Served when Hollywood plasters the movie poster or a headshot of a famous en crisps, the generous serving in a deep bowl, it is more than Past Starbucks and beyond was a meal unto itself. enough for two people. Teriyaki Boy stands a diminu- The highlight of my dinner A worthy alternative to the tive restaurant several blocks promptly arrived alongside the Massman, the Chick-Pea from Fordham University appetizer. Forget Freshens and Yellow Curry ($9.95 to $10.75) where the 90s never happened, its peanut-butter smoothies. satiates those seeking a little the millennium is inconceiv- They don't hold a candle to spice in their lives while the able, and Michael Jackson real- VYNL's Nutty Thais ($4), a lightly fried, white-meat ly IS the King of Pop. Inside its foamy concoction of peanut Sesame Chicken ($ 10.25) offers psychedelically modulated butter and vanilla ice cream. a satisfying change from the environs, "Like A Virgin" and Remorselessly thick and glutto- deep fried mess many Fordham "YMCA" blare in the back- nously rich, I chugged my bev- students may be accustomed to ground, while posh New erage in less than five minutes, when ordering from the likes of Yorkers busily chat about their secretly wishing for more. Tea Den. day. VYNL, on Ninth Avenue VYNL is renowned for its VYNL has all the bases cov- with its carefree ambience, is wide array of platters, catering ered, offering more convention- the perfect ode to big hair, loud to a variety of culinary palettes: al fare as well, including salads music, and good food. American, Indian, Chinese and (try the exotic Chinese Chicken Mind-numbingly hungry, Thai. Being in New York, the Salad, $7), wraps like the sur- celebrity onto book covers. "I only want the original cover," this reviewer got down to busi- establishment is very conscious prisingly tasty Bar-B-Que Tofu humorist Robert Rankin said in an article with the National Post. ness and ordered from VYNL's of people's eclectic tastes, Wrap ($8.50), and one of the "This kind of marketing is altogether too much. I wish they gave peo- menus, ingeniously presented oftentimes giving the savvy best veggie burgers ($6.95) ple more credit. We buy it in spite of, not because of, the cover with inside record covers of the peri- customer an option of chicken, around, relegating my the movie stars." od. Take a nostalgic trip down tofu, or shrimp with their orders Morningstar microwaveable However, this obvious marketing move is essential to the success memory lane with such record and earmarking certain cuisines veggie patties to convenient, of gaining a much larger potential readership. After all, isn't every- covers as Donna Summer's as vegetarian-friendly. My Tofu frozen doorstops. thing about getting people to pick up a good piece of literature and "Love to Love You Baby" and Massman Curry ($9.95) in Pasted onto records, the expanding their minds? Michael Jackson's classic peanut-coconut sauce was deli- dessert menu offers such deli- With people reading less and less these days, who cares what "Thriller." cious, a perfect compliment to cacies as Alicia Key-Lime Pie. encourages someone to saunter into the nearby bookstore or As an appetizer, the fried the remains of my Nutty Thai With its dark chocolate liquid library? Let's not be petty and just be grateful that books still calamari ($5.95) with Harisa and a definite must for people center, the Almost Flourless exist. The next thing we know, we'll have to spend an hour down- Chocolate Fudge Cake with loading a novel onto our laptop while we debate over the moral Vanilla Ice Cream ($5) is sinful. dilemma of whether what we're doing is stealing or "borrowing."3§ Think brownie sundae with a VYNL little sensual chocolate waiting As an avid movie watcher and a total book dork, my recommen- inside - simply fantastic. A dations for some great movies and truly awesome books are: 824 Ninth Avenue @ 54th St. shame there isn't more of it. New York, NY 10023 Take note sugar fiends - the (212) 974-2003 dessert servings are rather 1. A Beautiful Mind by Sylvia Nasar small. This reviewer in particu- 2. Little Women by Louisa May Alcott lar found himself rationing his 3. Fight Club by Chuck Palahniuk Price: $$ (out of four) golf ball-sized scoop of ice 4. Bridget Jones' Diary by Helen Fielding cream with the puck-sized 5. Girl, Interrupted by Susanna Kaysen fudge cake - NOT a pleasant Hours: experience. 6. The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton With its unique atmosphere, 7. The Shining by Stephen King Monday & Tuesday: 11:30 a.m. - 11 p.m. friendly service, and accessible 8. The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas location, VYNL remains a wor- 9. Where the Heart Is by Billlc Letts thy option for the college stu- 10. The Virgin Suicides by Jeffrey Eugenides dent seeking an affordable din- Wednesday - Friday: 11:30 a.m. -12 a.m. 11. About A Boy by Nick Hornby ing experience. Enjoy the first blush of spring with friends, a 12. Prozac Nation by Elizabeth Wurtzel Saturday: 9:30 a.m. -12 a.m. trek through the city, and a (film to be released June 2003) frothy Nutty Thai. 9S Sunday: 9:30 a.m.-11 p.m. May 1,2003 Arts & Culture page 15

a Summer of Sequels By Matt Sebra, FCLC'05 STAFF WRITER As summertime comes closer, many of us begin to contemplate our plans for the summer of 2003, For a lucky few, it will be letting the sand slip between their toes on some breezy beach, but for the majority of others, it's drudging through an eight hour-plus workday only to pass out in bed by 9 p.m. Fear not, because when the sweet salvation known as the weekend rolls around, movie studios roll out their big guns, offering you the very best in big entertainment As this summer would have it, sequels look to reign supreme with a heaping of second installments aiming to surpass the action and adventure (as well as box-office receipts) of their previous attempts. Here's a look at what to expect from these repeat offenders:

Matrix Reloaded MAY In theatres: May 15 The mind-altering The Matrix X2: X-Men United reinvented the sci-fi genre, In theatres: May 2 created the enthralling "bullet Hugh Jackman, Halle Berry, Ian time" effect and changed McKellen and the rest of the X-men action movies forever. With return, with new additions like Brian this, the second of three Cox and Kelly Hu, looking to up the installments, the Wachowski ante from the previous installment. brothers have kept the plot so No worries, as the integral theme of under wraps, that the general outcasts in a fearful society remains public knows as much about prevalent, though this time around, this movie as I know about look for mutants, both good and quantum physics. bad, to band together against a Regardless, some things Courtesy of WarnerBros. Pictures Neo (Keanu Reeves) pushes the visual effects envelope again in The new government threat. Director have been revealed. Neo Matrix Reloaded. Bryan Singer (The Usual Suspects) Courtesy of 20th Century Fox and company, with such new- Mutants, both good and bad, also returns - very promising, see- return in the sizzling sequel. comers as Jada Pinkett- movie that promises to push sive 20-minute chase scene ing how his ability to avoid cliches Smith, fight to protect the the visual effects envelope on a highway built especially separated X-Men from the rest of untouched city of Zion in a even further. Expect a mas- for the film. the superhero pack.

2 Fast 2 Furious Charlie's Angels: JUNE In theatres: June 6 Full Throttle Awful title aside, this in theatres: June 22 sequel, which promises to The beautiful trio known be even "furious-er" than as Charlie's Angels (Drew its predecessor. takes Barrymore, Cameron Diaz, undercover cop Paul and Lucy Liu) return, Walker back to the streets revved for more in this and the world of illegal rac- sequel New additions to ing in search of a the cast include Bernie renowned drug lord. Mac, replacing Bill Murray Singer Tyrese replaces Vin as Angel-handler Bosley, Diesel and John Singleton and Demi Moore, returning (Boyz N the Hood) hops to the big screen after a

aboard to direct. The ques- six-year hiatus, as a for- Darren Michaels / Columbia Pictures tion remains, can a Diesel- mer Angel gone bad. The beautiful trio (Drew Barrymore, Cameron Diaz, and Lucy Liu) of less Furious duplicate the McG, whose fun, colorful Charlie's Angels return, revved for more. unexpected success of the images made the first film Courtesy of Universal Pictures dition established by the new theme song penned Tyrese Gibson replaces Vin first film? Only time will so visually entertaining, independent women of by the poppy-gone-punk Diesel in the sequel. tell. returns as well. In the tra- Destiny's Child, expect a Pink.

Bad Boys II Tomb Raider: JULY In theatres: July 25 The Cradle of Life Loud-mouthed narcotics In theatres: July 18 detectives Mike and Angelina Jolie is back as the Marcus, played by Will pistol-packing heroine Lara Smith and Martin Lawrence, Croft in the second film based return for a second time, on the enormously popular promising the same blend Tomb Raider videogame fran- of action and humor which chise. In the sequel, Lara Croft made their first adventure searches for the "the Cradle of so successful. The two Life," which supposedly houses Reese Witherspoon hunt for a kingpin responsi- a box capable of mass destruc- Legally Blonde 2: ble for creating designer tion. Look for bigger and better Red, White, and Blonde ecstasy, among other action sequences as Jan De In theatres: July 2 things. Producer Jerry Bont (Speed) takes over the Reese Witherspoon (and Bruckheimer, king of the big directing reigns. Also notewor- accompanying dog Bruiser) budget flick, looks to once thy is this film's product tie-in (it returns as perky Elle Woods in again leave his mark on the Columbia Pictures wouldn't be a summer movie the Blonde sequel that takes summer movie season with without one), as Jolie becomes these loveable bad boys. Will Smith and Martin Lawrence the new spokeswoman for Copyright Paramount Pictures her to, our nation's capitol as as the loveable bad boys she advocates a bill against Jeep. Angelina Jolie as Lara Croft animal testing. For those who may be wary of this sequel, If these sequekfail to wlteUycmmovie-goinga^ or a third fear not. If Witherspoon's pre- vious films are any indication, installment like Terminator 3: Rise ofilie Machines will do the trick Or, you could hope for a truly original film to come along she has a knack for choosing roles that audiences can't get and put all of these overly commercialized movies to shame, but don't holdyour breath. Instead, simply enjoy the show. enough of, Elle Woods being no exception. Arts & Culture May 1,2003 [page 16 Alex Skolnick and All That Jazz

By Anabella Rolando, FCLS'03 wants to be a writer and has a metal, which is exactly what I STAFF WRITER strong artistic side, but she does did. I dedicated my album direct- not have the confidence to do it. ly to him. Alex Skolnick began playing She goes on this trip to Europe Q: What is AST currently guitar at age 10, joined thrash- with her husband, who's a psy- up to? metal band Legacy at age 16 and chiatrist, and she ends up run- A: The main thing right now recorded his first album with the ning up with this other guy and is touring. We have already been band fresh out of high school. having this affair all over to Cleveland, Rochester, New Disappointed with being type- Europe. At the time she wrote York, Chicago and Pennsylvania. cast a "typical rocker," Alex left this, it was the most sexually "There is a longer tour lined up for his band mates to pursue jazz explicit thing written by a late May and June in smaller, studies just as the Seattle sound woman. I can relate to this book more intimate venues. was becoming popular. Moving in a lot of ways. When I was in Q: How do you feel about to New York in 1998, he attend- Testament and I was this heavy the taste of the youth today ed New School University for metal guitar guy, I was totally when it comes to music in gen- jazz and met Matt Zebroski and typecast. In order to do what I eral? John Graham Davis. Eventually am doing now, I had to break out A: It's like cookie cutter they would form The Alex Anabella Rolando of this thing that everybody dance - no original voice out Skolnick Trio. Alex Skolnick has a fresh sound that appeals to jazz-lovers and metal- thought I was. there. At least when Metallica Skolnick may have left his heads alike. Q: Is the name of your came out, it was something very rock days behind, but like the Because I am a rocker and grew tance between the performer and album, Goodbye to Romance: original, and they were going memory of a first love, heavy up playing heavy metal, I also audience. What 1 didn't like Standards for a New against the grain. Now it's ironic metal never quite left him. took my favorite heavy metal about being a rocker was the Generation, a way to say good- because there are groups who Instead, he created a fresh sound songs and interpret them in this whole "trends" [concept]. In the bye to the metal years? sound exactly like Metallica and that appeals to both jazz-lovers language. late eighties they just wanted A: It has several meanings to not even the Metallica I knew. and metal heads alike. His pas- Q: You were 16 years old more pop, more melody, power me. It's saying goodbye to typi- You know, the Metallica post- sion for jazz, funk and world when you joined Testament. ballads, and by the early nineties cal jazz standards (don't get me "Black Album." music is evident in his jazz ren- How were you affected by the you were asked to tune down wrong, I love jazz, 1 still play it) Q: What advice would you ditions of heavy metal anthems give aspiring musicians whose like Scorpion's "No One Like "It's like cookie cutter dance - no original voice out there. parents and friends tell them to You" with its Bossa Nova tempo go on to become a lawyer or and KISS' "Detroit Rock City," At least when Metallica came out, it was something very doctor because it's more prof- which fusions swing, Latin and itable? funk. original, and they were going against the grain." A: Your parents are right to a Q: For those who haven't certain extent. Does that mean heard it before, how would you - Alex Skolnick you shouldn't do it? No, describe the sound of AST? absolutely not! But you better A: The sound is a combina- crazy world of rock and roll at your guitars - you need a more but there are so many jazz groups have what it takes. I am speaking tion of sounds; we take the tradi- such a young age? "alternative" sound. doing the same songs. "Goodbye as the son of two parents who tional jazz trio instrumentation A: I really liked meeting the Q: You wrote a song about to Romance" was co-written by went to Yale and got Ph.Ds. with guitar. We are obviously fans, which I enjoy now even "Fear of Flying," the book by Randy Rhoads - my all time They were sure I was going to guitar, acoustic bass and drums. I more because the audience is so Erica Jong. Why was this book favorite heavy metal player. go to Berkeley, get my Ph.D. and am very influenced . by Pat up close and we get to hang out so special to you? Randy Rhoads was a classical go on to become an academic. Metheny. He plays with a lot of with everyone in between sets. In A: 1 think it's one of the best music guitar player, too, and had I've been through that as any- energy, but it was Miles Davis heavy metal, there was a little bit books ever written. The book planned on going and getting his one. Believe in you, but also stay who turned me into jazz. of that, but there was also the dis- talks about this woman who music degree after doing heavy true to reality. 3€ Rocking It With Fixer By Catharine McNelly, FCLC'05 kid's voice. It was hilarious!" there are the less obvious ones STAFF WRITER The same holds true for that each of us has as well: Brown. "I remember having a influences such as Trey In a world filled with what guitar that 1 made out of card- Anastasio [Phish], Marilyn seems like endless teen pop, it's board for Halloween when I Manson, Phil Lesh [Grateful refreshing to hear a good old- was about seven," he said. "I Dead], and just a mix of jazz fashioned rock and roll band. would put on INXS, Cheap and classical backgrounds." Meet Fixer: a gritty, fist-pump- Trick, Van Halen, whatever was Despite being on the scene ing, mind-blowing rock group. around and use my bed as a for a relatively short time, Fixer Hailing from New York City, stage. I never really had any has received incredible recogni- Fixer amazed audiences and fans, but man, I could play that tion from music industry insid- gained fans since their forma- cardboard guitar like no one ers. This past September, the tion in 2000. I had the opportu- else!" band played as part of the nity to talk with Fixer's J. Fixer began when two pairs Musicians and Emerging Artists Brown (bass) and Diamond Tim of friends came togethei after of New York festival. Judges Newton (drums) about what doing time in New York's music claimed Fixer had "outstanding makes Fixer rock. scene. Evan R. Saffer (lead musicianship, song writing, and For Fixer's band members, singer) and Brown have played the most potential to have a suc- together since 1997, while cessful career." music always seemed like the flxermuslc.com/lmages.hlml inevitable way to go. "Every Newton and Wilson Lihn (lead Perhaps the most appreciated one of us has basically known guitarist) have also corroborat- compliment came from Bill The fist-pumping Fixer blows away an audience. that we wanted to do this as ed since 1995. The combination Aucoin, former manager of long as we can remember," of four distinct styles worked KISS and Billy Idol, who com- of the band. "There is always so many potential fans!" Newton said. "Personally as a perfectly. mented, "The return of rock and something to do," Brown said. Why should people check kid, I used to take chopsticks "I think that all of us have roll. Hot riffs, great hooks, a "It's Sunday night at 11:30 p.m. out Fixer? Brown himself said and drum along pillows to the had a lot of the same and some sexy look and an out-of-this- and you want to go see a show? it best. "There is so much talent, radio. I even made Casey very different influences," world frontman make Fixer's No problem. There are hun- originality, and raw energy dur- Kasem-esquc countdowns that I Brown said. "There are the show a must see." dreds of them going on at any ing our live show that once you committed to tape when I was obvious ones like Led Zeppelin, Although Fixer seems des- given time. It's a great city to see us, you will be counting the five - 'And now, climbing two Guns N' Roses, the Stones - tined for fame, the New York meet people - so many people days until we come around • «i tilt notches,' in a wavering little gods of rock and roll. But then City scene will always be part who haven't heard your music, again. « May 1,2003 Arts & Culture page 17 POW! WHAM! SMACK! Superheroes Strike Back Onscreen

By J.P. Mangalindan, FCLC'05, thrown their hats into the box- Batman & Robin. Packed with STAFF WRITER office ring with decidedly more Hollywood names than mixed results. can fit onto a movie poster and It's a bird! It's a plane! It's Superman dashed onto the some of the worst line-reading Superman? Not quite. Currently scene and was an instant block- this side of Star Wars: Episode exploring teen angst Daw.son's buster From 1978 until 1983, II, the fourth sequel marked a OwA--style on the WB's he could do no wrong. That is, sad finale to a franchise that Snuillville every week, the man until the debacle that was will likely never be successfully of steel has been missing in Superman IV: The Quest For revived despite recent studio action from the cinematic spot- Peace. With a budget smaller plans (Nicolas Cage as light since the l°K()s. Despite than the allowances of most 10- Superman? I think not.). the absence of Superman as year-olds and special effects There have been other well as a certain caped crusader, that vui!••'•• South Park look like attempts at adapting comic the superhero movie genre is a .i.-.iwi opus, this critically book franchises to the big currently experiencing a new lambasted film was dead on screen, some good ( The Crow), lease on lite as some of the best arrival and nailed the coffin some bad (The Crow sequels), movie adaptations Hood the- sliul on a superlative comic and some utterly traumatizing aters. book film series. {Spawn), but none of these With a budget smaller than the allowances of most 10-year-olds and special effects that make South Park look like a visual opus, Superman IV

was dead on arrival and nailed the coffin shut on a fixermuslc.com/imag9s.htnil. Storm (Halle Berry) and the rest of the X-Men reignite audience's superlative comic book film series. imaginations in X2: X-Men United. more than a mere flash in the Much of the project remains pan when it swung into theaters, under wraps, but great things Comic book adaptations are , Batman, despite all the tech- films became commercial suc- topping X-Men's profits and are expected from the director tricky propositions for movie nical wizardry, met a fate simi- cesses the way Superman and breaking box-office records. of Crouching Tiger, Hidden studios, probably more so than lar to his Kryptonian brother. Batman did until 2001, when a Featuring a newly buffed Tobey Dragon. any other film genre out there, Director Tim Burton originally bald telepath and his band of Maguire, kewpie doll Kirsten Further down the road, save movie musicals (currently envisioned Batman's Gotham gifted outcasts burst onto the Dunst, and a memorable gravi- expect to see big-screen ver- experiencing a rebirth of its City as sinister and dark, a truly big screen in a big way. ty-defying kissing scene, sions of Catwoman, Ghost own due to the fabulously craft- frightening yet wondrous locale X-Men reignited audiences' Spider-Man currently stands as Rider, The Punisher, The ed Moulin Rouge and Chicago). to behold. Yet, sequel by sequel, imaginations and renewed stu- the superhero film to beat, Fantastic Four, numerous To succeed, such films require a as the man behind the mask dios' hope in the possibilities of something which last undisclosed projects, and the plausible plot, special effects- changed, so too did Gotham the genre. Diverging from its February's Daredevil failed to infinite number of sequels that laden fight scenes, and an lose that believable ethereal comic book roots, this fresh do entirely. may appear should these fran- appealing cast. Over the years, quality; it became a garish new take on a dangerously out- Serious competition arrives chises do well. And this is just some comic book heroes have freak-show instead. Take dated franchise took some in the highly anticipated sequel the beginning. much needed artistic license, to X-xKen, X2: X-Men United, In a world shrouded by especially where costumes were which premiers in May. With an everyday politics and responsi- concerned (the idea of Hugh expanded cast including stage bilities, where crime and injus- Jackman as Wolverine dressed actor Alan Cumming, the rol- tice can go unnoticed or in taut yellow and black span- licking good times are sure to unheeded, superhero films dex is more disturbing than continue, yet perhaps the most remain for many people the per- attractive). It was smart, it was highly anticipated project on fect escape, a means to leave fun, and it grossed over $300 the horizon for comic book afi- behind reality and immerse million. Yet, this commercial cionados is Ang Lee's big bud- themselves in an outlandish, success was but a hint of things get adaptation of The Incredible simpler universe. For two to come. Hulk, starring Eric Bana (Black hours, there are no shades of Spider-Man cemented comic Hawk Down) and Jennifer gray, no complications, no wor- books' return to the screen as Connelly (A Beautiful Mind). ries -just good clean fun. 3?

Apartments, Sublets & Roommates All Cities & Areas! Browse & List Free www.Sublet.com 1-877-FOR-RENT NO BROKER FEES Studio, 1 .ft 2 Bdrrrs $900-3300 flxormuilccom/lmngei.htinl George Clooncy's (urn as Batman marked ii sud ending to the scries... Tor now. Sports September XX, 2002 page 18 Baseball's Start as Interesting as Ever April Baseball is always full of surprises

By Matt Chaprales, FCIX'05 come September. STAFF WRITER As for the races for individ- ual awards, the pool of con- FCLC As usual, the month tenders is more predictable of April brings with it many that what team will win the interesting sub-plots in base- championship. The American ball. This April it has been the League MVP is essentially a Royals' memorable string of three man race: Alfonso nine wins out of the gate with- Soriano because he put up out a loss; the Cubbies' fast MVP numbers last year and is start, led by young fireballers still developing plate disci- Kerry Wood and Mark Prior; pline; Alex Rodriguez because and the continued struggles of he has been the statistically the New York Mets. best player the last two sea- In any city with a ball club, sons (the only problem is he baseball is the hot topic in plays for the Rangers), and April, because chances are, it finally Manny Ramirez, will not be in July. Yes, that is because the DL is the only the wonder of a 162-game sea- force that can stop him from son. No one knows what could hitting 50 home runs and dri- be, when the season is only ving in 160. The National three-weeks young, but when League MVP race is also a teams like the Tigers or Devil group of the usual suspects: Rays have a record of 28-66 Sammy Sosa (the fan come late June, you can be sure favorite), Albert Pujols (the they will not be making a trip to young blood), and Barry the playoffs in October. By Bonds (the eternal one). mid-summer some baseball anaheim.angels.mlb.com While some of these mar- fans just aren't interested any- The World Series winner Anaheim Angels will have a hard time repeating as champs due to the high quee players may not be filling more. level of competition this season in Major League Baseball, but should not be counted out as of yet. up the scorecards just yet, don't This season however, there everyday players than positions to bottom in the league. two National League worry, because the 2003 cam- are quite a few teams that could on the offensive side. Coupled The remainder of the Champions. paign is a mere four weeks old. make a fan's summer more with the 1-2 punch of Pedro National League is intriguing In the National League The Royals are in first place. exciting; many teams are vying Martinez and Derek Lowe, the as well. In the West there will Central the usual suspects — Austin Kearns and Carl Everett for what they believe to be an Red Sox are undoubtedly the be the usual battles between St. Louis and Houston — will are on pace to hit 60 home runs. attainable spot in the highly early favorite for the wildcard. the Giants and Diamondbacks be strong. But watch out for the Yes, people, Chicago and exclusive MLB Playoffs. There Some optimists may even say for the division crown. The Cubbies! It has been a few Boston are actually pondering actually isn't a single division they have a shot at the AL East Dodgers will try to ride their years since they last made a if the world would go on after a with a clear-cut favorite. In the crown, but rationale (and histo- strong pitching staff to try and run, and if they hang around, Cubs-Red Sox World Series. American League, the world ry) says the revamped Yankees finally overcome San look for Mark Prior and Kerry Phew! Thank goodness it's champion Angels face a daunt- led by their disgruntled owner, Francisco and Arizona, the last Wood to give them a chance April. \> ing challenge in trying to George Steinbrenner, will take repeat. In fact, they are going the East. to have "k difficult time even The AL Central was up for competing for a playoff spot. In grabs before the season started, Ephedra: Are this Drug's a division with the Oakland A's, with the Twins and White Sox the best Anaheim can hope for claiming superiority. But then is a second consecutive wild the Royals started 9-0, and have Days Numbered? card berth. shown few signs of diminish- The much sought-after ing. That should be an enter- (Continued from page 20) fourth playoff spot looks like it taining division, with the win- is going to be the Boston Red ner finishing around the 90-win exhaustion on what was a rela- range anywhere from $15 to at Sox's to lose, Anaheim will mark. tively cool day. Although the least $50. A major cause of all have to try to approach their 99 In the National League FDA hasn't yet banned Ephedra the side effects of Ephedra is wins from last year if they are there are only a handful of outright, it has' announced that that people take a higher to hold off Boston. The Red teams who don't have a legiti- supplements containing dosage than their body can Sox are a deep team, with more mate argument that Ephedra will soon have labels withstand. they could be con- warning consumers about the "Our company's standards tenders come possible side effects the drug exceed pharmaceutical stan- September. The NL can cause. The FDA has also dards...all our ingredients are East has a plethora of recommended that the supple- certified," said Mangini. talent in: Pat Burrel, ment not be sold to anyone Under a 1994 law called the Bobby Abreu, Jim under the age of 18. product in our store" said GNC Dietary Supplement Health and Thome and Kevin One organization which has spokeswoman Stephanie Education Act, dietary supple- Milwood. The Expos taken the FDA up on its recom- Mangini. "We want our cus- ments are not required to have and Marlins proved mendation is General Nutrition tomers to be able to make FDA approval or be registered last year that their Corporation. GNC, the United informed choices about what with the FDA before they are young teams could States' largest retailer of vita- they buy." marketed. In short, manufactur- prove to be a road min, mineral and herbal sup- GNC is also leading an ers don't have to prove that a block for the divi- plements, sports nutrition has effort to promote the proper certain drug works or that it is sion's juggernaut, the instituted a policy, effective as labeling of supplements. Many safe before it is marketed. Atlanta Braves. Add of Jan. 1 this year, in which no drug manufacturers hide cer- Jason George, however, is to that, the potential Ephedra products will be sold tain dangerous or illicit ingredi- quick to point out that not all of the high payroll to anyone under 18 years old, ents their products may contain distribution companies have Mets (there must be Any person who looks to be by not writing it on the label. these kinds of strict stun" talent on this team) under that age must present a Manufacturers also write rec- dards. and the newly valid form of identification ommended dosages on labels "We make our kids show us revamped Phillies, before buying an Ephedra- that may be higher than what a the label on any supplement Associated Press and you have proba- based product. person needs to take in order to they take," George said. A young ace, Mark Prior should help lend bly the most competi- "We just want people to feel get people to buy more of these "Nutritional information can be the Cubs to the playoffs for ycurs to come. tive division from top comfortable when they buy a supplements, whose prices can really sketchy sometimes." Ri I '/\l 'j 1

1 f. The bserver

May 1, 2003 SPORTS COVERAGE VOLUME XXI, Issue 14 Has Joining the Atlantic 10 Conference Hurt Fordham's Academic Standing? Becoming part of a scholarship league has proved difficult for the Rams

By Justin Terranova, FCRH'03 10 conference in 1993 after level. I do not see how this deci- record of 44-98. here who did not have the acad- STAFF WRITER being in the non-scholarship sion makes any sense." Last In some cases, athletic schol- emic status to get into this uni- Patriot League for five years. year the men's teams that com- arships can also help the acade- versity. Last year there was a FORDHAM-Fordham's All of Fordham's athletic teams mic standing of a school. freshman basketball player, Athletic Director Frank left the Patriot League except Fordham senior Melissa Weiss , Glen Batemon, did not have the McLaughlin dismisses any for the football team. The only "Our goal is to FCLC'03, is a swimmer who SAT scores to qualify for claim that Fordham's academic scholarships the Patriot League received a full scholarship from NCAA eligibility. The SAT standing has been hurt since offered are those on a need be known as a Fordham University. She is a scores in order to be NCAA eli- they started giving athletic basis. McLaughlin recalled, "It standout on the swim team and gible is between 700-850, scholarships. was a very difficult decision to university with holds a grade point average of dependent on your high school "Some of the greatest acade- leave the Patriot League; it took 3.8. grade point average. The mic institutions give away ath- several months of deliberation both quality "I was given this opportunity NCAA cleared him to play letic scholarships. Stanford and before we reached the deci- because of my swimming abili- because of a learning disability, Northwestern are both in top sion." The decision was based academics and ty, but it gave me a chance to but this does not change the fact athletic conferences and yet on the athletic prestige that the get a good education and I feel that his SAT scores were below they are known as two of the Atlantic 10 offers as opposed to athletics." that I have taken advantage of average as compared to most top academic schools in the the Patriot League. that opportunity," said Weiss. other Fordham students. When country," he said. Still the argument exists that -Frank McLaughlin, This is one example of how told about this, McGinn com- Some alumni disagree with the athletics have not improved athletic scholarships can help mented, "These are the type of Mclaughlin's rationale. Kevin enough to justify the move to a Fordham University students who otherwise would situations that concern me." McGinn, Class of 72, com- scholarship league. "The ath- not have been offered the same But McLaughlin does not mented, "We should be trying to letic teams have not done any- Athletic Director chance. think that these rare cases will send out a certain academic thing of significance since the "Our goal is to be known as a damage Fordham's strong aca- standard. When we start letting move," McGinn said. "The bas- university with both quality demic reputation. He persisted, kids in solely based on their ketball team is not showing any peted in the Atlantic 10 finished academics and athletics," "Fordham is too strong of an athletic ability it sends the improvement, and the other with a combined record of 52- McLaughlin said. academic institution to be wrong message," sports teams just do not have 75, Avhile the women's teams Not all situations are this influenced by athletic scholar- Fordham entered the Atlantic the talent to compete on this finished with a combined ideal. There are some athletes ships." ft Ephedra: Are this Drug's Days Numbered? Dietary drug not all it's cracked up to be

By Vin Gurrierl, FCLC05 supplement in Bechler's system reduce weight and increase STAFF WRITER focused attention on one of the metabolism are widely avail- major problems in sports: the able at healthfood and supple- FCLC-In February of 2003, use of dangerous dietary sup- ment stores, drugstores, and the sports world was shocked at plements by players, specifical- convenience stores. Many of the death of Baltimore Orioles ly Ephedra, to improve their these supplements can even be pitcher Steve Bechler. Bechler, athletic performance. obtained at local gas stations. who was 23 at the time of his Ephedra is used by about 12 The actual effects of Ephedra death, died of heatstroke during million people in the United on the human body have been a spring training workout in States, with some three billion debated for years. In addition to Florida. The pitcher's death, "servings" sold last year, Bechler's high profile death, while tragic, begged the ques- according to industry statistics. several other athletes who were tion, how could a man so young Ephedra is a stimulant, used by known to be taking Ephedra- based products on both the col- lege and professional levels "...We try our best to encourage have died. Athletes, however, have not been the only ones kids not to take these supplements. effected by the supplement. From January 1993 through heallhydevll.studenlaffalrs.duka.edu/lnfo/nulrit/ephadra.html If a kid wants to lose weight or trim October 2000, the Food and Here are just a few or the products that contain ephedra. Any prod- Drug Administration received ucts promoting "energy," and combating fatigue will probably contain body fat we try to get them to do it almost 1,400 reports of adverse either Ephedra, caffeine, ginseng or all of the above. events linked to Ephedra use, supplements that are banned. uct sales. The relative risks for using a good workout routine and including heart attacks, strokes, We try our best to encourage an adverse reaction in persons seizures, and at least 81 deaths. kids not to take these supple- using Ephedra compared with not a weight-loss supplement." In addition to the American ments. If a kid wants to lose other herbs were extremely Medical Association, which has weight or trim body fat we try high. The drug has been linked - Jason George, Fordham Football already called for the drug to be to get them to do it using a good to such side effects as high pulled from store shelves, many workout routine and not a blood pressure, an increase in Strength and Conditioning Coach athletic associations including weight-loss supplement." heart rate, kidney failure, and the National Football League A study released by the seizures. and healthy die of heatstroke on athletes for short-term energy and the National Collegiate Annals of Internal Medicine in As was the case in Bechler's a day in which the temperature boosts to enhance athletic per- Athletic Association have February 2003 found that prod- death, Ephedra is also believed barely reached 75 degrees? The formance and endurance, to already banned the use of the ucts containing Ephcdra to disallow the release of body answer was found several help people exercise longer, and supplement. accounted for 64 percent of all heat, thus caijsing a person's weeks later, when toxicology feel more alert. Hphcdra, as was "We absolutely don't allow adverse reactions to herbal body temperature to rise dra- reports found that Bechler hud the case with Bechler, is also them [banned supplements]," products reported to the matically. This rise in body been taking u supplement con- used as a way of depressing a suid Fordham Football Strength American Association of temperature is what caused taining Ephedra, a chemical person's appetite in order to and Conditioning Conch Jason Poison Control Centers, yet Bechler to collapse from heat which contributed to Bechlor's facilitate weight loss. George, "We have to make it these products represented less denth. The discovery of this Supplements that claim to clear that kids can't take any than one percent of herbal prod- (Continued on page 18)