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Volume 22, Number 7 November 19, 2007 Suspected Cop Killer Apprehended Another BSO deputy killed in the line of duty

Bruno Niccoli Within five minutes North Campus are the result of Staff Writer police officers swarmed an enhanced safety protocol. the scene and took Mazza The protocol was altered after On Oct. 7 Deputy Paul Rein into custody. The chase the shooting at Virginia Tech from the Broward Sheriff’s for Michael Mazza lasted University. During the lockdown Office was shot and transported four hours. The Broward the number of police officers was to North Broward Medical Center Sheriff’s Office was tripled and a helicopter gave aerial in Deerfield Beach, where he was assisted in the chase by coverage over the campus. pronounced dead. hundreds of officers, BCC safety officers followed Deputy Rein, a 20 year deputies, state and federal the “Dangerous Escape” veteran, was transporting inmate agents. Mazza is now in procedures from the protocol and Michael Mazza from the Broward custody at the Miami-Dade blocked both campus entrances. County Jail in Pompano Beach to County Jail, in order to Anyone trying to enter the North the Broward County Courthouse avoid him from accusing Campus had to show proper in Fort Lauderdale, for a trial Deputy Rein’s colleagues identification to gain permission on robbery charges. Mazza was of abuse. Mazza has been to enter the campus. already serving two life sentences charged with premeditated The lockdown on the North for previous armed robbery first degree murder and Campus was lifted by the Coconut charges. escape. Creek Police Department at 11:30 Prior to his transportation, The Broward Sheriff’s am, but the campus remained Mazza complained that he Michael Mazza in Magistrate Court photo courtesy of MiamiHerald.com Office contacted the on safe mode. The other BCC was suffering from back pain, Broward School Board campuses were affected by the which resulted in the Sheriff’s Dixie Pawn Shop, where he he was approached by Michael minutes after the shooting, lockdown as the search for Mazza department request for a BSO approached Mark Spradley, a Mazza, whom he offered a ride. informing them of the situation and headed South. medical van. Mazza was taken local man coming out of the pawn As Spradley and Mazza requesting a “Code Yellow” to be Michael Mazza’s first court from jail in a wheelchair with a shop. Spradley, a homeless man, arrived at the Uptown Pawn shop, put into effect in Broward schools. appearance was held on Nov. crutch. helped Mazza not knowing who Spradley went into the shop while This resulted in the lockdown 13. Broward Circuit Judge Paul According to witnesses, the he was and gave him a ride, as he Mazza remained in the vehicle. of over 300 public and private Backman presided the hearing. Deputy stopped the van in the was going to the Uptown Pawn The store manager, Scott Kelly, schools across Broward parking lot of Diamond Dolls, Shop, at 6020 Hollywood Blvd. had the local news broadcast on, County, including all just a mile away from the jail. Spradley moved to South at that moment Mark Spradley BCC campuses. This The Deputy then proceeded to Florida seven months ago from realized the fugitive on the news was the first time that a open the back door of the van and Las Vegas and has been living was the man in his car. “When I Code Yellow, the code remove the inmate. A few minutes in his white 1975 Chevy Caprice seen that picture, I said, ‘That’s requesting for school later, Mazza overpowered Deputy Classic ever since. Spradley was the guy in the car’” said Spradley. lockdowns, was ever Rein by wrapping a chain around at the Dixie Pawn Shop looking He then told Kelly to call 911 and used in Broward County. his neck and then grabbing his for speakers, as he was leaving inform them that Mazza was in The lockdown weapon. Mazza shot the Deputy to go to the Uptown Pawn Shop his vehicle. procedures on the in the chest and left his body in photo courtesy of MiamiHerald.com the parking lot of Diamond Dolls. Mazza commandeered the BSO van and drove South to Davie, carrying the Deputy’s weapon. It remains unknown if Mazza had any assistance on his escape. The high-top van was found TheBuzz Lamb President:County which have a connection 100100 days he D will noways be According L toater Armstrong, there empty at the corner of 27th Staff Writer to the college. concentrating on going deeper were over 150 people at the Omni Ave. and Davie Blvd in Fort “It is wonderful, but it is hard into the campuses to look at brainstorming strategies to help Lauderdale. According to Without any fanfare or to squeeze in all the activities,” the programs being offered. students succeed. “I was very Broward Sheriff Al Lamberti “A notoriety, J. David Armstrong, Jr. he said. “I’ve already worn my “We recently held a ‘summit’ pleased to see the passion and series of hitchhiking events took has reached a milestone. October tuxedo more times in the last the interest among everybody place, where the suspect Michael 16, 2007 marked his completion of 100 days than I have in the participating.” Mazza … worked his way down 100 days as President of BCC. At last five years in Tallahassee.” Armstrong added that his top to the area of Dixie highway the national level, a new president Armstrong said there are priority during the first 100 days and Scott Street in the city of is scrutinized for his actions after so many things going on in has been student success and it Hollywood.” the first 100 days. What follows the county that it is virtually will continue to be at the top of his Mazza’s first stop was the is a conversation recently held impossible for him to attend list. “We have too many students with our college president, to get every function. that come to us academically his view on his first 100 days on The most memorable under-prepared and not having the job. event for the new president a social support network from “For the most part, the has been the welcome back families or for financial aid and president’s job is what I anticipated opening day for all of the we’ve got to find ways to help it would be,” Armstrong said. faculty and staff which was more students…complete their “One of the things a college held on the North Campus. degrees,” he said. president has to do is get out into “It’s like a fair atmosphere When Armstrong was the community and meet with the almost,” he said. “I really Chancellor of the Florida many organizations that are out got a feel and a sense of the Community College system he

there.” scope and the size of the photo courtesy of Broward.edu had to deal with colleges on a Armstrong said if there was college.” policy level…laws and statutes one thing that surprised him the Armstrong said he has been where we invited everybody… most was the fact there are so visiting all of the campuses but professors, staff, support people ▪ Armstrong continued on page 7 photo courtesy of Sheriff.org many organizations in Broward after the first and students,” Armstrong said.  The Observer August 13, 2007 november 19, 2007 south The Observer  Nursing Students Help Kids Beach Cleanup Dr. Linda Washington permission to Gracia Bonilla of the community. Ramsijewan Special to The Observer perform the Contributing writer added, “We are trying to keep s c r e e n i n g s . the beach clean. All the non- The Broward Community The students The members of Phi Theta biodegradable pieces, no matter College-South Campus pediatric screened over Kappa’s Alpha Delta Rho chapter their size, should be collected.” nursing students participated 45 children got their hands dirty this past Bifulco said that people in vision and anthropometric between three Saturday, Nov. 3. Members of PTK sometimes tend to think that the screening activities at the and five years and other students participated in smaller pieces of garbage are not Broward Community College of age. The a beach clean-up, which consisted a big deal. Then, he compelled the Child Development Center students used of picking up pieces of plastic and participants of this event to think (under the direction of Ms. June the Snellen other garbage along the beach at in terms that “that little thing is Paul). The activities targeted Letter and John U. Lloyd Beach State Park going to be here forever,” and that identification of eye problems, E charts to in Dania Beach. conscious people now are trying hand washing, car safety seats, evaluate visual Left: Kristine Fraga courtesy of Linda Washington This event was part of PTK’s to preserve the beauty of these and nutritional variations (under- acuity. To determine weights (pediatrician or ophthalmologist) “Operation Green,” which is an areas for generations to come. and overweight) in preschool- and heights, the Center’s for if the child’s screening results international service program. Troy Jeffries, a member, stated aged children. Disease Control (CDC) Boys were abnormal. This program intends to address that “Basically, I’m just trying Notices were provided to and Girls Growth Charts: United The teaching sessions were the needs of the community by to give back to the community.” parents in advance obtaining States, “Weight and Height- fun-filled and exciting for the taking care of the environment. Bifulco noted the importance of for-Age Percentiles.” Five children. They learned the Actions like this have a positive this initiative. He says that an children screened showed importance of good hand washing impact, as Kendall Ramsijewan, event like this “instills a sense of visual acuity greater than to prevent the spread of germs. Alpha Delta Rho’s vice president keeping everything clean,” and 20/50, eleven children were Students used the “glow light” of service stated, “Sea turtles sets an example for other people. above the 95th percentile which allowed the appearance nest here and the pollution on the “You have such a small amount of for weight, and two were of germs on children hands that beach poses a serious threat to the people that are conscious of these below the 5th percentile were improperly washed. Another lives of the hatchlings.” things, and I think more people for weight. The height-to- group of students presented car Patrick Bifulco, park ranger at are going to be conscious because weight measurements also safety seats and the importance of John U. Lloyd Beach State Park, it is something you’re doing at confirmed the nutritional the correct size and buckling up explained to the participants the school now,” Bifulco said. needs of the children. when riding in the car. harm this pollution causes. “Sea Ramsijewan wishes to “get Follow-up parent This integrated community turtles eat leaves and seaweed. the word out,” so that a greater letters were sent home experience was essential for New-born turtles mistake the number of students can be with each child screened the pediatric nursing student. small pieces of plastic for food. involved in these activities. He listing the visual acuity They learned first hand on how They think that’s what it is; they encourages willing students to screening results and the community college students can eat it, and then they choke to contact the PTK officers in their anthropometric findings. play an active role in disease and death,” he said. campuses. “At the end of the day Additional information injury prevention and helping This work helps maintain the it feels really good to be part of was also given for follow- to minimize eye problems in integrity of the ecosystem, and it this effort to keep our community courtesy of Linda Washington up evaluations with a preschool-aged children. also contributes to the aesthetics beautiful,” Ramsijewan added. licensed health care provider  The Observer Central november 19, 2007

Jade BrownThe GardensPlanetarium, boasts a variety at from B oneCC of the trees. SKatrinaafety Ward on Campus Contributing writer of fruit trees from Sapodilla Seconds later he was reaching staff writer munity we should also be aware (Naseberry) and Tamarind trees for more. of the emergency call boxes in- Walking around BCC Central to Mulberry and Limeberry trees. According to Rowe, just a few What are the best ways to be stalled in numerous locations Campus, one might notice a vari- But there are several small weeks ago, some Jamaican girls safe on Central Campus? Are around the campus grounds. The ety of plants, from the native oak gardens located around Central asked him about the Jamaican there effective and enforced cam- parking area emergency boxes and pine trees to the exotic tropi- Campus, each with an array of pear tree (avocado) located in the pus safety services at Central operate as push-to-talk radios and cal fruit trees. unique and unusual plants. East Garden, just across from the Campus? appear as yellow boxes mounted Some of these tropical fruit The Provost Garden, for ex- library. He informed them that the Surprisingly there are many on poles topped with solar pan- trees catch the attention of stu- ample, located just west of the pears were not ripe, but if they individuals within the BCC com- els. dents, who easily recognize the Provost’s office, has several dis- came back in a few weeks, he munity who are either unaware The emergency call boxes in banana and papaya trees. Students tinctive plants, among which would have some for them. or unsure of the campus safety the buildings operate as speaker- from other countries are also sur- the Jaboticaba , a shrub-like tree For Rowe, this is not an unusual services and the general dos and phones. When the red button on prised when they spot a tree from bearing purple fruits on its trunk occurrence. Oftentimes, students don’ts that benefit greatly. the emergency box is pressed a their home country. But how did and the White Bird of Paradise, ask the landscapers to pick fruits The facts in this article can campus safety officer is immedi- these trees get here at BCC? for them, which Rowe says he also be found in the campus safe- ately connected. The emergency It all began a few decades ago, prefers to students damaging ty guide pamphlet available in the number is 954-474-8786 and it is when Central Campus started a the trees or attempting to climb campus safety office to everyone available for everyone to use 24 landscaping program. them, though there have been upon request. In addition to play- hours a day, 365 days a year and Former BCC professors Al several incidents. ing it safe, it is imperative that be directly connected to a Central Will and David McLean were in- “If the fruits are at ground everyone is aware of the general Campus safety officer. strumental in starting the gardens level and they want to pick dos and don’ts required to keep Some of the campus safety ser- at Central Campus. them, they can. We just us safe. vices include vehicle jump starts, According to McLean, when don’t want them climbing the During the daily hustle and parking enforcement, threat as- he was at Central Campus in the trees,” said Senior Landscape bustle, it is advised to always sessment and critical incident early 70’s there were “absolutely Photo By Jade Brown Specialist Curt Liner. travel with a buddy when pos- management, building access no trees,” on campus. a tall leafy plant with white bird But for the harder to reach sible. Especially in the afternoon control and several others. Most of the trees and gardens shaped blossoms, stand out. fruits, leave it to the profession- hours, it is very important to walk A copy of this guide and any at Central Campus were planted, Many of these foreign trees, als! After all, the landscapers have in well lit areas, and avoid walk- other questions or information through the landscaping program like the Jack Fruit tree in front a man-lift which they use to pick ing through bushes or dark paths. regarding campus safety can be and Professor Al Will is credited of Building 14, are unfamiliar to the fruits from the taller trees. Although rare if needed, stu- received in the campus safety of- for getting most of the tropical BCC students, who pass the fruits “And we like helping the stu- dents and staff are always urged to fice located in Building 19 or by fruit trees on the campus, like the on the trees, unaware that they dents out,” said Rowe. report all suspicious persons/inci- calling the office directly at 954- Jamaican apple tree located in the are edible. Consequently, fruiting So the next time you find your- dents to campus safety officials. 201-6626. East Garden. trees like the Panama (Muntingia) self with a little free time, take a Also, those who operate vehicles As individuals of the BCC “I don’t know why they call it and Barbados cherry (Malphighia) minute and get to know one of the should know it is necessary that community it is our duty to ad- an apple,” said Campus Landscape trees, in the East Garden, are left plants here at Central Campus. vehicles are locked at all times here to and uphold these rights Supervisor, Richard Rowe. “It has to the birds. There is a variety of unusual and and any significant valuables left and services given to us. This in- more of a pear shape”. “You can eat these?” inviting plants just waiting to be in the vehicle should always be formation and service is for our The Fruit Garden or the East asked BCC student Lavaughn discovered. kept out of sight. benefit and also for our protec- Garden, surrounding the Buehler McKenzie, as he plucked a cherry As members of the BCC com- tion. november 19, 2007 CENTRAL The Observer  Chili Cook-Off Secret Shoppers Anonymous jessica beans The battle included several Jessica Osorio contains the two central elements staff is coming in and they’re Central Bureau Chief different categories: spiciest, best Contributing Writer of the analysis, quantitative and getting to look at the store vegetarian, most creative, and qualitative. The quantitative through their eyes, that is a unique Smells from afar permeated of course, best over-all. People The BCC Bookstore and part of the assessment is where perspective. “This allows us to the BCC Central Campus on Nov. cheered as the tasting began. The Phi Theta Kappa members are PTK students are looking for measure things that we normally 7. “Jim Bob’s Chili Cook Off” crowd was encouraged to vote on teaming up to apply a field based store cleanliness, how they can not measure ourselves,” said took place on the patio outside the which chili fit into each category. research method known as “Secret were greeted, visual display and Masforroll. Marian Christine Student Life building. A good turn One brave soul took off running Shopping.” This method uses basically looking at the overall Paran, who is a PTK member and out is an understatement; nearly for water after having a taste of independent examiners to act as operation. The qualitative analysis BCC student, has already gone to 200 students and faculty crowded what would end up being spiciest customers to collect “secret shop” the the patio around 11:30am. The chili of the competition. There information about Central Campus exciting and tasty event was in was no telling who the victim was, the quality of the B o o k s t o r e . honor of Jim Bob himself, who however it looked to be a faculty merchandise and Paran found a loved chili and was a tremendous member. But the over-all winner customer service. lot of “attentive cook. Chili of all kinds surrounded went to the BCC Bookstore. “We started this assistance” from the area and the competition was There are rumors of revenge process because, most of the fierce. for the next cook off. However, truly, we want to bookstore staff. Approximately ten groups the participants seemed to have be able to measure “This new secret participated in the actual cook a wonderful time and can’t our effectiveness shopping process off, while members watched and wait for next year. The faculty in the community is great because eagerly awaited the was primarily of Broward the bookstore f l a v o r s o m e r e s p o n s i b l e Community College,” said asks the PTK students to describe should know what they need c h i l i . for the George Masforroll, Director of what they liked and disliked. to improve on and we are the M a s s i v e event and Bookstores. “The process is built around customers. We pay for books and s t e w s they did a As of now, the “Secret knowing what we’re doing right tuition so we should get the best sizzled and phenomenal Shopping” process is only being and knowing what we’re doing service,” said Paran. m a r i n a t e d job. This was practiced in the BCC Bookstore wrong. The strength of knowing “Every step of the way we while music definitely one located in Central Campus. what we’re doing wrong is that need to continuously evaluate played in the of the best However, Masforroll is planning those are areas in which we ourselves to see how we measure background events the on expanding this method need to improve; likewise what up. Broward Community College which set BCC Central to all BCC bookstores. The we’re doing right needs to be bookstores are here to serve the the tone for Campus has “Secret Shopping” will be done emphasized because if we can community of Broward County the affair. had this year. throughout the fall and spring build upon that we should,” said and we need to constantly engage “The smell Students and semesters in hopes to evaluate the Masforroll. all of our customers to find out dragged me faculty had bookstore during its busiest and Masforroll was encouraged if we are doing the best,” said away from the a n incredible time slowest times of the academic to apply this method to the Masforroll. If you would like library, I’m so hungry now!” said and it was a good opportunity for year. bookstore when he sees “secret to get involved with the “Secret Eric Kieser, 23, political science both worlds to come together. So The “Secret Shopping” process shopping going on in the retail Shopping” please contact the major. At one point there was no if you like chili, this is something is being done by PTK students world.” He explains that when PTK office at (954) 201-6607. getting through the crowded area. not to pass up next time! who are given a form which somebody outside of the retail  The Observer NORTH november 19, 2007 Things you didn’t Know about BCC North Campus North Campus takes the keys Bruno Niccoli if you are interested, there is a Staff Writer sign at the cafeteria saying that Archie Asar pamphlets and some other give- how drunk they are. The simula- auditions starts in November. Contributing Writer aways. Smoothie King gave out tor, which was programmed to go • North Campus is the only healthy fruit drinks. However, in different levels of drunkenness, campus not named after some- • North Campus has a “I’ll take the keys.” That was the main attraction was the Save made students aware of how im- one. building 51, building 52, and the message sent out to the stu- a Life Tour. portant it is not to drive while un- than building 56. We have four dents at North Campus during the Gabriella Martinez, who was der the influence. • There is actually a slo- buildings named 60, but no Health Fair Event that took place one of the attendees, expressed Students were also given a gan for the campus: “North building 61, it jumps straight on Nov. 8. her thoughts on the event. “It wrist band as they walked around Campus: Lighting the path to to 62. Save a Life Tour, which is a was very well put together. It was by the Save a Life Tour, which success.” drunk driving awareness pro- awesome, especially the save a read, “I’ll take the keys.” • North Campus has always gram, was part of the annual life tour”, she said. Both the students and the ven- • The only campus trying to lead the way in promoting en- Health Fair. Different agencies As students walked into the dors were served a light lunch. solve the parking problem. vironmental sustainability. from around the county set up Breezeway, a coffin with a sign Joseph Metts, who is in charge tables to promote healthy liv- that read “reserved for the next of both the Intramurals and the • Google Earth coordinates • You can play racquet- ing. Among those vendors were: person who is killed by a drunken Healthy Student Living program, to North Campus are: Latitude ball, tennis, and golf on North Pediatric Associates, Broward driver,” instantly caught a lot of put this program together along 26°14’27.39”N; Longitude Campus. Community Family Center, the students’ attention. with Dee Clermont, who works 80°10’25.89”W Holy Cross, Women in Distress, Most of the students were for Student Life. • North Campus has a Community Blood Centers, avoiding the coffin as they walked Overall, the event was a suc- • The cafeteria, or better Student Café. The Student Healthy Mothers/Healthy Babies, by. The tour also had two sepa- cess. Over 600 students visited known as North Star Café, Café is a place for students to Mental Health, Broward County rate videos showing accidents the tables around the Breezeway. opens at 7:30 am. The price for sit down and get a chance to Health Department, Smoothie that have occurred and caught At the end of the day the message a cup of coffee is $1.58, with talk with other students. If you King, Markson Chiropractics and national attention, along with the was clear: North Campus students taxes. are a foreign student, the Café Campus Read. simulator that helped students un- do like healthy life-styles. is also a great way to improve Each table had informational derstand how one can not judge • North Campus is the your English.. home for both of our basket- ball teams.

• The OMNI Auditorium seats 2000 people.

• In the parking lot next to the OMNI Auditorium, there is always a red bus where you can donate blood.

• The only campus where you can go from student to Seahawk Idol. Seahawk Idol is a singing competition, our ver- sion of American Idol. It takes place at the Student Café, and

Science Club On North

Richard Schwartz Contributing Writer

The last week of October was National Chemistry Week and was a busy week for the Science Club on BCC North Campus. Festivities kicked off on that Monday, Oct. 22, with a speaker from the Broward Sheriff Office’s forensics lab. Tuesday was “Dr. Madea’s Magical Chemistry Show.” Dr. Madea, a chemistry professor, was last year’s advi- sor. At the end of the show, with the lights off, she mixed 2 liq- uids that glowed very brightly and drew “aaahhhh’s” from the audience followed by clapping. Wednesday, outside of Student Life, was a display of posters for the organic chemistry students. Finally, on Thursday there was a movie about a famous African American chemist. Any students interested in the Science Club can e-mail Dr. Memari, the advisor, at bme- [email protected] or go to her office in the science department. Interested students can also leave a note in the Science Club cubicle, which is located in North Campus Student Life. november 19, 2007 COLLEGEWIDE The Observer 

President Armstrong Attendance Policy Update Still Leading BCC ▪ Armstrong even more user-friendly are in the Buzz Lamb not attending class),” she said. attendance. For those [faculty Continued from page 1 works. Staff Writer Ross added that their verification members] doing it [verification] Armstrong said he will contin- must be maintained every 30 days by assignments, that’s okay with Lauderdale has been a big ue to analyze programs at the col- thereafter and it must be reported us,” he said. adjustment but it is all going ex- lege. “We are looking at the ones At the start of the fall 2007 to the government. Ross said there are students tremely well. “Broward County that need to be supported more but semester, under pressure from According to Ross, there are that have been affected by the is such a huge place but everyone most importantly…I am wonder- the United States Government, two ways for faculty to verify if new policy. “I can guarantee there has shown us their southern hos- ing if there are sectors out there attendance in class became an a student is enrolled: faculty can have been students that have been pitality,” he said. “The commu- in the community that need us to issue at BCC. Oct. 29 was the last take attendance at every class withdrawn [by faculty] because nity at large has been very sup- provide additional courses to help day to withdraw from a class with or faculty can verify a student’s of the reporting,” he said. portive.” our students get good career op- a “W”. So who, if anybody, got enrollment by their assignments Millender added that at this As far as changes go, portunities and to help our work- the axe for not attending classes? being turned in. “We gave them point she could not provide the Armstrong said one of things he force,” he said. Armstrong said According to Angelia (the faculty) the option because figures as to how many students has accomplished was to do an he recently visited with officials at Millender, Vice President for we are a non-attendance-taking have been withdrawn or dropped. evaluation of where the college Port Everglades about developing Student Affairs, there are two institution. The faculty wanted Ross said at the end of the stood against the competition. specific training programs tied to important factors which need to the freedom whether or not to term his office will be making a “We found out the other institu- the needs of the Port. “And,” he be considered. “Every time a require the students to attend class. comparison between last fall and tions were using their website added, “we are still working on student starts a new session they What we are telling the faculty is this term to analyze the situation. more to their advantage than we implementation of four-year de- must validate their enrollment that they have to verify that the “Some faculty members were were,” he said. “I went to our grees at BCC. That will come up at the college in every class that students are actively learning in doing this last year as well, but the Information Technology (IT) staff for full review in they have on their schedule. That their class,” he said. big difference is they could only and asked them to make our web Tallahassee in January,” he is not an attendance policy. That Ross estimates that before do it [withdraw students] at the page easier to navigate. We had said. is enrollment verification for the mandate approximately 40 end of the semester as opposed to so much information on our site According to Armstrong, reporting purposes to Veteran’s percent of the faculty did not take being able to do it throughout the that it was confusing,” he said. the college has just received a Administration, to the INS and attendance. “I would estimate semester. That’s what the federal “The IT staff did a great job of $200,000 grant to help BCC ex- to the federal government for that figure has dropped down to government did to us…they want immediately changing that and pand the Educator Preparation those students who are receiving 20 percent because they [faculty to know right away when a student streamlining it so the majority of Institute Program (EPI) which financial aid,” she said. members] are finding it easier stops attending class,” he said the web page is now student-ori- helps train teachers. “That is a Dr. Ken Ross, Vice President to verify enrollment by taking ented.” Armstrong said the staff very critical part of our program Academic Affairs, added that is still ana- expansion and will help us sup- the attendance policy held by the l y z i n g port the community as well,” he college has always been the same the web- said. “I don’t think our public policy that they have had. “Now, site and relations department has even an- some of the faculty may have f u t u r e nounced it yet.” changed the way they do things to plans to In summing up, Armstrong make it easier for them to do the make it said he feels his job as President verification by taking attendance is going very well. “I can’t tell whereas they may not have done you how much I enjoy being out it before,” he said. on the campuses and interact- According to Millender, ing with students and going to verification must occur during meetings on campus. I am to- the first seven days after classes tally impressed by the amount begin. “A student is not officially of organizations we have on on a class roster until they attend campus and the active participa- class. We need to verify that tion by students…those kinds of someone is a student otherwise things really get me energized,” we would be carrying ‘ghost he said. rolls’ (lists of names of students  The Observer november 5, 2007 november 19, 2007 features The Observer  Birth Control: Which type is right for you? Anna Rot Contributing Writer • The birth control pill, also known as “the pill” • The Shot, is the most recent form of birth control. The is one of the original forms of birth control. It is available shot is given as an injection once every three month’s at the doc- Most college students are in different kinds of combinations pills which come in ei- tor’s office. The shot is considered as one of the most under much pressure with ther a 21-day pack, or a 28-day pack, those differ in the fre- effective forms of birth control, out of 100 women school, work and personal quency the pill has to be taken. You will either stop that did the shot, fewer than three, got acci- lives, we cant let other worries taking the pill for seven days as in the 21-day dentally pregnant. The shot also prevents the get in the way. However, if a pack, or take a pill with no hormones period from appearing which seems like every girl is sexually active, it is bet- for sev- en days, as in the 28-day pac. girl’s dream, however unexpected and ir- ter to be safe than sorry. Most 5 to 10 women out of a hundred that regular bleeding may occur throughout the of us know the term “going on took the pill got accidentally preg- first three months of use. “At first I was a little the pill” because the pill was n a n t , but it depends on whether hesitant, not get- ting my period didn’t sound the first form of contracep- you take the pill everyday like very normal but many doctors told me it was o.k. tive invented, but now, many you are supposed to. The now I love it, I don’t have to worry about swallowing different forms are available. pill is ef- fective, but even pills, and the best part is that I don’t ever get my period, isn’t Each one is designed in a dif- missing one day, can increase that every girl’s dream?”. ferent form; Pills, patches, the chances of pregnancy. Side shots, rings. But how do you effects of the pill are same as those know which one is right for of the patch. you? • The patch is a thin, skin-colored sticker that sticks to your body and releases hormones to prevent pregnancy. It is said to be as effective as the birth control pill, that means that • The Ring, is a soft, flexible doughnut-shaped ring about 2 inches (5 centimeters) in diameter. about 5 to 8 women out of 100 that use the patch are likely to It is inserted into the vagina where is releases hormones into the bloodstream, preventing pregnancy. have unexpected pregnancy. The patch should be The ring is inserted for three weeks, taken out for a week during the period and put back in at the end worn on one of four areas: the abdo- of the fourth week. The exact position of the ring is not critical, as long as it feels comfortable “You men, buttocks, upper arm, or don’t even feel it, sometimes I even forget it’s there” said Jessica Parrott. The ring is upper torso but not on the held in place by the vaginal muscles, so it is un- likely to fall out. Many girls breast. Some side effects wonder what happens during sex, “my boyfriend says he doesn’t that are likely to occur are: even feel it, if I didn’t tell him, he prob- ably wouldn’t even know it irregular men- s t r u a l was there”. The Ring has side effects similar to the pill and bleeding, nausea, w e i g h t the patch, but it also has some effects of its own which include gain, headaches, d i z z i - vaginal irritation and yeast infections, discharge and vision ness, breast tender- ness, and problems. The ring may be good for young women who some mood swings. A s h l e y don’t like remembering to take pills, or don’t like swallowing Bowan, a student, said “I didn’t really them. like the patch, it would always come off ”. The Jazz band ads some pizzazz buzz Lamb of jazz lovers with Meryl’s deep in front of the stage extended all usually heard Sunday mornings to just hang out with friends,” he Staff Writer contralto voice and her mellow the way back to Second Ave. and on Love 94 (FM Radio WLVE said. “I hear that FIU has a great jazz interpretations. Meryl’s all eyes and ears were directed 93.9) from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. was jazz program and it would be The first Sunday of each silky-smooth sound slid across the toward the stage. at the Sun Trust Jazz Brunch as awesome if they could get some month brings with it an explosion courtyard and her up-tempo tunes According to Allison, jazz a spectator. “I’m never here of the students over here.” of music to downtown Fort danced across the shimmering music is now beginning to span because I always have to work Debbie Bylica, Recreational Lauderdale. Some of the finest waterway. the generations. “Kids are taking Sunday’s at the station…I do a Programmer for Special Events local and national jazz musicians Meryl’s repertoire included up jazz because the music is live show,” he said. “I took this for the City of Fort Lauderdale, occupy four distinct stages set Big Band, Swing, Classic Jazz timeless,” he said. “They are Sunday off so I thought I would said the Sunday Jazz Brunch up along Riverwalk, which and a few sultry Lain songs. beginning to realize that most of come out here to enjoy the live gets bigger every month. “There curves along the banks of the On the eastern side of today’s pop and rap music has its music.” are more people here today that New River between the Andrews Riverwalk, toward Andrews Ave., roots in jazz…this is music they Grant said it is important we have ever had…the place is Ave. Bridge and the can dance to or just sit and for people to know that jazz is packed and that’s a good thing,” 7th Ave. Bridge at listen and enjoy.” the only truly American music. she said. A look around the area Cooley’s Landing. The According to Allison, “It started in this country and confirmed Bylica’s observation. area encompasses the jazz has grown at five over the decades it changed as Several groups had staked out Broward Performing times the speed of American life changed. This is their own piece of real estate with Arts Center and is any other music form. a great opportunity for people blankets and folding picnic tables referred to as the “arts “Classical music took 400- to embrace the great American which were over loaded with district”. 500 years to evolve and it songbook,” he said. goodies that could put even a die- Produced by the wasn’t really identified Gil Ghitis, 16, a saxophone hard Dolphin tailgater to shame. Fort Lauderdale as a period until recently. player who attends David Posner The next Sun Trust Jazz Parks and Recreation People didn’t know what Hebrew Day School volunteered Brunch is scheduled for Sunday, Department, the event they were listening to. to help out at the information Dec. 2 and will feature George is called the Sun Jazz was born a hundred booth set up by the Gold Coast Tandy, the Coco Rouzier Quintet, Trust Sunday Jazz Brunch and the Good Vibes with Strings years ago and everybody knows Jazz Society. Ghitis said he would the Kevin Lee Campfield Quartet 2007 is the 17th anniversary of Quartet presented a unique offering what jazz is all about,” he said. like to see more high school and and the Dixie Dawgs Trio. More the acclaimed music fest. Four of many familiar jazz tunes in an Cheryl Fisher fronted the Gold college-age people get involved information is available by calling simultaneous performances are un-familiar way and hidden in the Coast Jazz Society Band and she with music, especially jazz. 954-828-5363. open to all music lovers and obscure Peck Courtyard, tucked kept the audience spell-bound “These concerts are free, it’s all attendees are encouraged to bring behind the massive Performing with her up-close-and-personal live music and it’s a great place chairs, blankets and coolers to Arts building, the Meryl Tananger style of singing. Fisher’s relax and enjoy three hours of Trio entertained the happy folks matchless tonal quality great jazz from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. who were paying only two bucks in conjunction with her Throngs of people from all for an icy beer while the concert- solid stage presence walks of life flock to the site to goers out by the river had to shell blended seamlessly stroll along the New River and out five bucks for a cold one. which attests to Fisher’s soak up the sights, the sounds and Sometimes it pays to get off the popularity as much the sun…all for free. beaten path. sought-after performer. On Sunday, Nov. 4, the On the Esplanade Stage (the She is equally at ease four stages were occupied by main stage of the event) the Gold swinging through an performers who each offered a Coast Jazz Society Band under old standard as belting different style of jazz. At the the direction of Eric Allison out the Blues. Connie Hoffamn Gazebo the performed hit after hit spanning Stu Grant, the host Lynne Meryl 100 years of jazz in America. The of the long-running Quartet wowed the multitude sea of people that filled the area “Sunday Jazz Brunch”, 10 The Observer Features november 19, 2007 Shuttle Launched Dr. Kenneth Benoit Profile on Award Winning BCC Professor

Jena Lewis Natalie Bobb Constantinides. Constantinides, Publishers. With all of these Contributing Writer Staff Writer a composition professor at LSU, accomplishments, Benoit said played an integral role in Benoit’s the one he is most proud of is On Oct. 23 the Mission When Kenneth Benoit watched education. getting a piece published. His STS-120 Discovery launched his first “Young People’s Concert” “He is a great composition composition, Five Flags Suite, from Kennedy Space center conducted by Leonard Bernstein teacher. I learned a lot from was published by Imagine Music at exactly 11:38 am. Two on PBS, he was enthralled. He him,” said Benoit. “I not only in Aug. 2006. members of the BCC North was only 8 years old at the time learned how to write music, but “Getting a piece published is Campus Science Club, were but he was convinced that he also what to do with a piece after a major struggle,” said Benoit. fortunate to attend such a wanted to be a conductor. it is completed.” “Most publishers do not want to spectacular event. “Not only did I want to be a According to Benoit, writing publish music from a composer This launch was the conductor, but I wanted to conduct a piece is only part of the battle. they’ve never heard of,” he 23rd shuttle mission to the the New York Philharmonic,” said “You have to get the piece added. International Space Station Benoit. performed and let people know According to Benoit, although since its construction. Benoit dreamed of becoming that it is being performed,” said he loves composing music, his The crew members a conductor until he attended the Benoit. drive to teach comes from a deep included Pamela A. Melroy, University of Miami where he Benoit’s music was performed urge to share music with others. STS-120 commander Photo by Jena Lewis was pursuing a Master of Music at the Aaron Copland School Also, said Benoit, teaching is a (who was the second woman The STS-120 mission was to degree. It was at UM that Benoit of Music at Queens College tradition among musicians. to command a shuttle); Daniel deliver the Harmony module, heard what he considers great in New York on Nov. 15. The “Haydn taught Beethoven M. Tani, Expedition 16 flight a 23- by 14-foot passageway advice. performance was part of the and Mozart had students that he engineer; George D. Zamka, STS- that will connect to the U.S. “The band conductor at UM Festival and Conference of taught,” said Benoit. 120 pilot; Douglas H. Wheelock, segment of the station providing asked me what else [besides New Music. Benoit’s featured The thing that Benoit said he Scott E. Parazynski, Stephanie attachment sites for European conducting] I wanted to do in composition, entitled Mosaics, is enjoys most about teaching is the D. Wilson and European Space and Japanese laboratory modules. music and I said, ‘composition.’ a three-movement work for tuba, look on his students’ faces when Agency’s Paolo Nespoli. This device will be the first new He told me to study composition flute, oboe, clarinet and bassoon. they unexpectedly hear a piece Returning home from the space U.S. component to be added to the because as a composer I would “The piece is called Mosaics that they recognize. station was Flight Engineer, International Space Station since get to analyze more contemporary because it is made up of several “That look of ‘wow, I know Clayton Anderson, joining the the Quest Airlock was attached to music than conducting students,” gestures, which I call tiles,” said that piece!’ is what makes teaching crew of shuttle mission STS-120 one of Unity’s six berthing ports said Benoit. “He was so right. Benoit. “It is very untraditional,” wonderful,” said Benoit. “I want for the re-entry to Earth. Daniel in 2001. I’m so glad I listened to him,” he he added. my students to try listening to M. Tani was left to work on the The shuttle takes about 12 added. Benoit is also the recipient of different types of music. I want space station and to take the place minutes to break through the Benoit went on to earn the ASCAPLUS award which them to know that they don’t have of Clayton Anderson. Daniel atmosphere, then it will spend 2 a Doctoral of Music and is presented by the New York to give up listening to Beyonce or M. Tani will return home on the days orbiting until it reaches the Composition from Louisiana State City-based American Society 50 Cent or Christina Aguilera,” Mission STS-122. International Space Station. University where he met Dr. Dinos of Composers, Authors and he added. november 19, 2007 The Observer 11 12 The Observer Topic of the month November 19, 2007 Tigertail Lake Center What is Tigertail? Tigertail Lake Center offers quality credit and non-credit courses in a variety of water sports which are designed to meet the needs of BCC students. In addition to sailing, windsurfing and SCUBA diving classes, the center provides an atmosphere conducive to learning about local environmental issues, recreational activities and topics related to health and wellness. The center’s staff is committed to exploring new programs and services. There is a Ropes Course on site, and a picnic area. Tigertail is the home of the BCC Sailing Club, SCUBA Club and Water Sports Programs. Tigertail Lake Center has two conference rooms that overlook beautiful Tigertail Lake. A large meeting room with a capacity of 50, a small conference room with a capacity of 15, and picnic facilities are available. Use of this facility is free for all BCC students and faculty.

Leadership Building on the Rope Course Break down barriers. Open the lines of communication. Create an environment conducive for problem-solving. Those are all critical components the BCC Adventure Learning Center addresses. Our philosophy starts with Challenge by Choice. This approach allows individuals and teams to participate in activities they want, can and are intrigued to do. In the process, they will:

• Learn development skills that parallel workplace skills through effective physical and mental challenges • Improve communication and interpersonal relationship skills • Boost confidence, energy and motivation levels while overcoming fears • Develop a healthy, competitive edge

• Encourage idea sharing and enhance decision-making abilities through team collaboration • Build self-esteem and promote positive thinking November 19, 2007 Topic of the month The Observer 13

Tigertail Lake Center Courses Available

SCUBA Class Contact Info PEN1236 What is Tigertail? Broward Community College’s Tigertail Lake Center is located at: Tigertail Watersports Center is Tigertail Lake Center offers quality credit and non-credit courses in a variety of water 580 Gulfstream Way proud to offer SCUBA classes at Tigertail Lake in conjunction sports which are designed to meet the needs of BCC students. In addition to sailing, Dania Beach, Florida 33004 with World Watersports through a partnership designed to bring windsurfing and SCUBA diving classes, the center provides an atmosphere conducive quality divers’ education to the to learning about local environmental issues, recreational activities and topics related Natalie Justice, college. This class carries one Interim Manager credit hour and enables you to go on our weekend diving trips to the Keys. Upon to health and wellness. The center’s staff is committed to exploring new programs and 954-201-4502 successful completion, you can earn your PADI Open Water card. services. There is a Ropes Course on site, and a picnic area. Tigertail is the home of the Jon Groover, BCC Sailing Club, SCUBA Club and Water Sports Programs. Watersports Coordinator Beginning Sailing Class Tigertail Lake Center has two conference rooms that overlook beautiful Tigertail 954-201-4503 PEN1236 Learn to sail small dingies Lake. A large meeting room with a capacity of 50, a small conference room with a Rick Fial, including our lively Hobie Coordinator Cats. This course carries one capacity of 15, and picnic facilities are available. Use of this facility is free for all BCC credit hour and enables you 954-201-4500 to take an intermediate level students and faculty. sailing trip to the Keys for a weekend.

Beginning Windsurfing Class PEN1241

Learn to windsurf in ideal learning Leadership Building on the conditions on the waters at Tigertail Lake. This class carries one credit hour and enables you to take an intermediate level windsurfing trip to Rope Course the Keys for a weekend. Break down barriers. Open the lines of communication. Create an environment conducive for problem-solving. Those are all critical components the BCC Adventure Learning Center addresses. Our philosophy starts with Challenge by Choice. This approach allows individuals and Kayaking Class teams to participate in activities they want, can and are intrigued to do. In PEN1241 the process, they will: This class offers hands-on training for “sit-on” kayaks or canoes. It includes paddling skills, self-rescue and safety training. PREREQUISITE: • Learn development skills that parallel workplace skills through effective physical and mental You must be able to swim 25 yards. challenges • Improve communication and interpersonal relationship skills • Boost confidence, energy and motivation levels while overcoming fears PADI Divemaster Class EDE0878

• Develop a healthy, competitive edge This course provides the knowledge and skills necessary for recreational scuba divers to enter the professional levels of • Encourage idea sharing and enhance decision-making abilities through team SCUBA diving. Students learn to assist dive instructors in training collaboration and supervising student divers. The course provides the initial preparation and training to those • Build self-esteem and promote positive thinking who want to become assistant SCUBA instructors and open water SCUBA instructors. 14 The Observer Comics and Puzzles november 19, 2007

Corrections In the last issue Nov. 5, Nick Rodriguez wrote the article on The Coral Springs Sports Grill not Anthony Perrucci. COMICS AND PUZZLES November 19, 2007 The Observer 15 16 The Observer SPORTS november 5, 2007 november 19, 2007 Entertainment The Observer 17

Origins of Indiana Jones revealed Shows:Upcoming Cody Mcgowan Jones” worth your Contributing Writer hard earned dough, 11/23 HIM at the or is it just for the Revolution. In 1981 Dr. Henry Jones Jr. die-hard fan? 11/24 The Misfits at the first appeared in the jungles of While the Emmy- Culture room. South America, bull-whip, fedo- award winning series 12/01 Buzz Bake Sale ra, sly grin and all, ready to charm remains the principal featuring 3 Days Grace, his way into the hearts of movie- draw, Lucasfilm LTD Sum 41, and The Used, plus goers. Now, nearly 30 years later, hopes to educate, more at the Sound Advice Indiana Jones remains a promi- as well as entertain. Ampitheater. nent pop-culture icon, thanks in Containing 38 docu- 12/08 Keith Urban at the a large part to Harrison Ford’s mentaries, as well as a Bank Atlantic Center. portrayal of the Nazi-smashing bonus disc of games, 12/15 Y/100 Jingle Ball archaeologist. it seems as though featuring artist such as Good Where, then, did this great he- “Young Indiana Charlotte, Sean Kingston at roic figure come from? Jones” contains the Bank Atlantic Center. In the “Adventures of Young enough “infotain- 12/31 R. Kelly at the ment” to satisfy even American Airlines Arena. Fun, exciting, the most discerning Sean Patrick Flanery as young Indiana Jones. Photo courtesy of monstersandcritics.com and good family history teacher. DVDs: viewing, but The features 11/20 “Hairspray” will not nearly the themselves are quite entertain- The same cannot be said, un- “The Adventures of Young be released. educational ing, starring Corey Carrier (pre- fortunately, about the supplemen- Indiana Jones Volume One” is 12/04 The 4th experience that it teen Indy) and Sean Patrick tary features. Consisting entirely at times fun, exciting, and good installment, Pirates of the promises to be. Flannery (older Indy) in the titu- of drab, stale, boring, and close family viewing, but not nearly Caribbean: At Worlds End” lar role. Both actors are believ- to unwatchable documentaries, the educational experience that it will be available. Indiana Jones Volume One”, this able (and loveable) as Young viewing them seems more like promises to be. With only about question is thoroughly answered. Henry, remaining true to the home work than romantic es- half of the 12 disc set containing Music: Recently released on DVD by character’s roots. While the di- capism. The documentaries do any real entertainment, “Young 11/13 The Killers released Lucasfilm LTD, the series of- di rection of Steven Spielberg and not offer enough entertainment Indiana Jones” there is no need their new album “Saw rect-to-television movies give us John William’s score are sorely to interest anyone other than the to go rushing to the video store Dust.” insight into the character’s child- missed, the series offers enough aforementioned history teacher, right now. Waiting a few months 11/13 “As I Am,” Alicia hood and adolescence, and how in the way of fun and adventure and the lack of any real informa- for the post-holiday sales would Keys’ newest album as he became the man we know that these minor details can be tion would probably turn them most likely make for a much hap- released. and love. But is “Young Indiana overlooked. off, too. pier consumer. When Lords and Ladies Gather Wristcutters Susan Schwartz valor with live com- Sharday Moshanko something together,’ and that is Contributing Writer bat demonstrations in Staff Writer what I get out of this. It’s beauti- their encampment. ful. It’s a heavy subject that’s not When someone mentions the They used real Stop! Put down your razors, told in a heavy beat-you-over- renaissance the first thing that weapons, real armor there is a movie worth seeing. the-head type way. I think the usually comes to mind is Romeo and the possibility “Wristcutters: A Love Stroy” is way it tells this story, I mean it’s and Juliet and knights in shining of getting really in- putting a new edge on suicide. beautiful, it’s gorgeous in nature, armor. However, there is a lot jured to demonstrate Filmed two years ago and under and that’s what I got out of it,” He more to it than that. the way combat was a million dollars, this indepen- said in a recent interview Those who attended Camelot done in the Battle of dent film’s emotional, yet lightly Though the subject is serious, Days on Nov. 10 or 11 know ex- Hastings and during comical view on suicide may be there seems to be a strange uplift- actly what it means to be a part of the time of William just what the doctor ordered. ing quality to each scene as events history. the Conqueror. No gun The movie starts with Zia, a unfold. Though the movie is not Sponsored by Broward County, powder here, folks, young man who decides to leave slapstick-type comedy, its veil of among other groups, Camelot just steel and some- this world when his girlfriend serious faces and themes can be Days is a renaissance fair which times wood. breaks up with him. Little does found to be in a quirky charm that works to bring back the days of Now ladies, don’t photo courtesy of royalchessmen.com he know that waiting for him on makes it funny. yore. think for one instant The Royal Chessman are one of the the other side is a slightly more Suicide is not something that It is held every year at TY Park that all this combat entertainers for Camelot Days. depressing world where every- should be laughed at but to re- and includes medieval events, stuff is only for the Steve Buckley, or Bjorn to his one is a suicide case and no one tain a serious face for appearance shows, shops and music. boys. In fact, one of the better Viking brethren, is part of a group can smile. He luckily makes a sake is denying it a human qual- Various independent groups fighters participating last -week known not only for pillaging, but friend when he meets charismat- ity that this movie shows it can gather together to make this event end happened to be a woman. also for heavy armor combat. ic Eugene, who has a way with have. “Wristcutters” is a movie well worth the $10 entrance fee. Dame Alysa Elder has been in In fact, one combatant may words. that definitely pictures why life These groups include: The Royal the Adrian Empire for 12 years wear over 100 lbs worth of steel As their friendship grows, Zai is worth living after all, putting Chessmen, The Adrian Empire, and after being a squire for 4 of into battle. finds out that the girl he killed a unique spin and new legacy to The Lotus Belly dancers and them, she decided to try her hand “We are very careful when it himself for took her own life as society’s old dark habit. Make many other performers. at the combat she seemed so comes to combat with the steel well. He goes in search of her sure to see this gem before time The Royal Chessmen are an knowledgeable in. weapons,” explained Buckley with Eugene’s help and picks up runs out. acting troupe of everyday people “Being the female, it feels who is the group’s equivalent to a lovely young woman putting on the roles of lords, la- like I can’t lose” said Elder. an on-site medic. “The worst in- named Mikal along for dies, knights and jesters to per- “Especially if another woman en- jury I’ve seen was an arm broken the ride. Mikal insists form a variety of shows. ters and doesn’t do so well.” in three places.” she doesn’t belong in Their most renowned perfor- Now, who leads you may ask? But don’t let that scare you the world their trapped mance is the human chess match, It’s none other than a king! Each away. The Adrian Empire is al- in and is seeking to a themed, choreographed fight- king is like an elected official in ways looking for new members speak with the people in ing chess game where the actors the Adrian Empire and the cur- and combat is not the only thing charge, aka PIC. themselves are the pieces. rent king is Lee Davis, known as they do. Shea Wingdum, the This year’s chess game fea- Sir Derfel. He rules the Kingdom A member can earn knight- actor who plays Eugene tured the court jester who wanted of Castille with political pizzazz hood in archery, arts and science, expressed how much the to be king for an hour and got his within the Adrian Empire. combat and/or ministry. film meant to him. “The wish using a few unprecedented “We are a national group with a For more information regard- world and the friend- chess moves. political infrastructure. Each sub- ing the Camelot Days Festival ships we made out of this Next, the Adrian Empire, a division is ruled by a crown, be it visit www.camelotdays.com or were very special. When group of individuals whose goal a baron or a king,” said Davis. to find out if the Adrian Empire you come out of a film is to educate the populace about In addition, knights weren’t experience is for you, please visit [actors]...hopefully you photo courtesy of imdb.com how life was between the years the only type of fighters present www.adrianempire.org. come out of it and say Patrick Fugit and Shannyn Sossamon (left 1066 and 1604, showed their at the fair. ‘Jesus, we went though to right.) 18 The Observer SPORTS november 19, 2007 Another Cup For Hendrick Remember when... Bruno Niccoli got to give credit where credit is I’ve always done it my way.” Omar Torrijos Staff Writer due.” Johnson finished his statement Sports Editor has in regards to attendance, the For Johnson to win another saying “If you look at our driving constant threat of the Marlins Jimmie Johnson kept his win- championship, he only needs to styles, our setups, look at every- There hasn’t been a team to leaving to another city doesn’t ning streak going with his fourth finish the race in Homestead in thing we do, we are on opposite watch in South Florida for a while leave the few fans they still have consecutive victory in the Chase 18th. ends. We do have some common now. Neither college nor the pros alone. Will the Orange Bowl be for the Cup. Dale Earnhardt Jr. again wasn’t interests, we are close friends.” are producing any results for us, the solution? We’ll know soon. Johnson’s victories at the able to finish a race. Earnhardt’s the local sports fans, who wait for The Florida Panthers haven’t Texas Motor every season to start and every been any different. After the S p e e d w a y team to produce. 1999-2000 season, where the and Phoenix The last time the Dolphins team won 43 out of 82 games International were any good was during the and made the playoffs for the S p e e d w a y 2003 season where they finished last time, the team has won 168 gave him an with a record of 10-6 but still out of 492 games, only 34% of 86 points lead didn’t make the playoffs. Maybe their games not making it to the over teammate for some of us the 2005 season playoffs in 7 years now. What’s Jeff Gordon. meant something when the the problem with the Panthers? With just one Dolphins began the season with Their awful starts in the seasons race left, the a 3-7 record and finished winning and their lack of killer instinct at Ford 400 at six straight for a final 9-7, once the moment of finishing a game. H o m e s t e a d - again not making the playoffs. For the 2007-2008 season, the M i a m i Before the 2006 season expectations are higher due to the S p e e d w a y , started, the so called “experts” recent hires and the locks of some J o h n s o n ’ s had already chosen the Fins as of the young and talented players chances of get- Super Bowl contenders, what a to long time deals. ting another flaw, Miami’s record, 6-10. Are Since the 2003-2004 season, N A S C A R they still starting Cleo Lemon? the last year the ‘Canes were N e x t e l After winning the NBA in the Big East, they haven’t Championship Championship during the 2005- been the power they used to be. became even 2006 season, the Miami Heat After finishing with an 11-2 (6- higher. hasn’t done any good either. 1) record and beating Florida J o h n s o n During the 2006-2007 season, State in the Orange Bowl 16-14 called his large the Heat reported a mediocre 44- the ‘Canes haven’t been able to point lead over 38 record, the 11th best record qualify for a Bowl Championship Gordon “a among the 16 teams qualified for Series Game. Following the nice, comfort- the playoffs. In the first round of move to the ACC, the ‘Canes able position the Playoffs, the Heat faced the have not had a record better than to be in, but Chicago Bulls and were swept 9-3 (6-2), being last year’s 7-6 we have to go 4-0, a humiliating loss for the (3-5) and generating the firing down there defending champs. At least there of Coach Larry Coker. Coker’s [Homestead] is no more Antoine Walker, let the replacement, Randy Shannon, is and run 400 Timberwolves deal with that. trying to make the Canes bowl miles.” Since the 2003 season, where eligible while trying to reach their M a r t i n the Florida Marlins won the sixth win of the season. Currently Truex Jr. had World Series of Baseball, they the ‘Canes hold a 5-5 (2-4) record the lead for 72 finished the next two seasons while still having to play at #10 laps, but the with an 83-79 record, the 2006 Virginia Tech and at #17 Boston decision to stay season 78-84 and the 2007 with a College. Miami’s memorable in the racetrack 71-91 record, going the opposite moments at home? The beating and not go to way every season and not making #19 Virginia gave the Canes, 48- the pit-stop was Johnson and Gordon chasing the Cup Photo Courtesy of speedtv.com the playoffs in none of the above. 0, in their last game ever at the costly. When Now, with the problems the team Orange Bowl. the green flag was given to Truex, car got loose and crashed against the used tires in his car weren’t the infield wall. It was the 14th able to help him stay in the lead. time Earnhardt did not finished Truex stated after the race that a race this season. When asked “we stayed out. We were taking a to explain what had happened, gamble. If we pitted I don’t think Earnhardt only said “I just lost we could have won so we stayed it.” out and tried to do what we could The dominance of the Hendrick do [but] we were a sitting duck Motorsports drivers over the there at the end.” Nextel series has brought the Johnson, who had not led a sin- Chase for the Cup into a two man gle lap so far, took the lead from battle. Clint Bowyer, third in the Truex with just 23 laps remaining Cup stands was officially elimi- and was able to block Greg Biffle nated from the championship at from taking the lead. the end of the race, as Johnson Gordon experienced prob- opened a 241 points margin over lems with his car for the entire Bowyer. race and finished in 10th. With When asked to make some the points gap between Johnson comments on his surprising sea- and Gordon increasing after the son Bowyer stated, “I think our past four races, Gordon acknowl- season was solid, week-in and edge Johnson’s dominance in the week-out but I think that really Chase by saying “unless you lead did change and turn for the better every lap, beat Jimmie Johnson when we got our first win.” and win the race, you don’t have With all the attention now a shot at it.” turned to Johnson and Gordon, After the race Gordon went the comparisons between the two even further in his comments re- drivers became even more di- garding Johnson. Gordon, imme- rect. When Gordon won the Cup diately after getting out of his car, in 1998, he did it by winning 13 said “It’s over. It’s over. Even if races. Johnson can finish the sea- we win it, it’s because they have son with 11 Nextel victories, the problems. While we’ll accept it, most since Gordon. But Johnson we don’t want to do it that way.” doesn’t want to be compared to Gordon finished by telling the his teammate, “I certainly don’t press that “those guys have flat- want to be called the next Jeff out killed everybody. And you’ve Gordon. I am Jimmie Johnson. november 19, 2007 SPORTS The Observer 19 Dolphins Just Seven Games Away From Perfection Bruno Niccoli Staff Writer ball game than a football game. 10-10. after being excessively used by you cannot gain long yards, it A minute later, Lemon scored The most costly mistake by a Cam Cameron, and will probably becomes almost impossible to Nothing can save the Dolphins. a rushing touchdown giving the Dolphins’ player came on the very not take long for Jesse Chatman surprise your rival. And that’s No matter what happens, the Dolphins an eight point lead. next play. Ted Ginn Jr. caught the to suffer a long term injury. what has been happening to the Dolphins would still find a way to With just a quarter remaining, kickoff return and was able to Dolphins. The lose. The Dolphins are so bad that all the Dolphins had to do was clear the entire Bill’s defense Bills defense even if the opposite team didn’t to prevent the Bills from having and score a touchdown. But knew exactly show up, they would probably scoring plays and the miraculous the hopes of finally having what the next lose. first win of the season would be a reason to celebrate after play was go- The Dolphins aren’t just losing secured. a game were destroyed in- ing to be, all to other teams, they are getting The Bills’ first scoring play stantly. they had to do defeated by themselves. Carrying of the fourth quarter lasted more Greg Camarillo, who only was to move a 0-8 record, the Dolphins came than five minutes, and ended plays for the special teams, to the correct out of a bye week to face the with a three yard touchdown run was called for holding in a spot and wait Buffalo Bills, and play that can easily go down for the play to the result was the as the most idiotic holding occur. same as against ever. Camarillo’s holding When the the Giants, the call was so far from the spot Bills got the Bills won 13-10. where Ginn was, that not ball back with Sunday’s game even the television cameras Marty Booker after another loss. Photo Courtesy of sports.yahoo.com just a few against the Bills were able to catch it. minutes left to is proof of how a The penalty annulled Ginn’s Chatman finished the game with play, it took them 10 plays to gain team can lose to it- 86 yard kickoff return and gave 124 yards in 27 attempts. 34 yards, but they were able to get self. The Dolphins the Bills the opportunity to Miami had the opportunity into field-goal range. A field-goal had a three point win the game. After the game, of scoring again in the end of at the end of the game was all that lead at the end of Camarillo decided not to take the fourth quarter, but the lack it took for the Dolphins to remain the first half, but in Photo Courtesy of sports.yahoo.com the blame on his shoulders and of options in the offensive play winless. the first minutes of said, “I think it was a fair play, I calling only helped the Bills to The Dolphins may win a game the third quarter, quarterback Cleo by Marshawn Lynch. With the asked the guy after the game, and stop Lemon and the rest of the or two in this dreadful season, but Lemon was sacked for a safety. chance of tying the game on a he didn’t think it was a penalty. Dolphins offense. it would mean absolutely nothing. The minimal three point lead was two point conversion, the Bills But if the refs call it, them I’m The Dolphins have only had A victory for the dolphins would cut down to just one point, and the took their chance, and on another guilty.” one completion for more than only help cover up a dishonorable 3-2 score resembled more a base- run by Lynch, they tied the game Ronnie Brown got injured 40 yards in the entire season. If team. BCC Basketball Omar Torrijos and an offensive average of almost AlMberto K. SLanchezS Cup Re-Match Sports Editor 90 points per game, the future for Staff Writer istence, the Dynamo franchise nal but lost in penalty shootouts the Seahawks looks promising. is looking to be only the second against the Mexican club Pachuca. The BCC basketball season has The Lady Seahawks also be- The date is set. The field is team to win back-to-back cham- Through the regular season they begun for both men’s and wom- gan their season at the begin- ready and the die-hard fans of pionships after the D.C. United proved to be in excellent shape as en’s teams. Even though the sea- ning of November, playing three the New England Revolution and did it in the first they were the team son is very young, the Seahawks straight home games earning a Houston Dynamo wait impatient- two years of the who received the men’s team has a perfect record 1-2 record. ly. league in 1996 fewer amount of of 4-0 after winning three of their Their first game came on Nov. It’s the 12th Major League and 1997. goals. first four on the road. 3 against Santa Fe Community Soccer Cup final and the first ever The Dynamo Brian Ching, For the Seahawks the season College and a final losing score rematch in league history. This got past the one of the team’s started on Nov. 1 at St. John’s of 101-62. After playing their years’ final will be played at RFK Kansas City leading goal scor- River Community College with second game against Daytona Stadium in Washington D.C. on Wizards with a 2- ers, got injured a final score Beach Community Nov. 18 at noon. 0 win in front of during the confer- of 81-76. College, the Both teams have gone through more than 40,000 ence final against the The next Lady Seahawks many obstacles but have proven fans, which is a franchise record. Wizards, and it seems like the game was couldn’t get the that this year they are the two The Dynamo reached this Dynamo will be giving and early at Santa Fe victory falling toughest teams. year’s first-ever Superliga- fi advantage to the Revolution. Community 88-46. In their With an acrobatic bicycle kick College with last outing, the in the 38th minute of play, Taylor the second Lady Seahawks Twellman scored the game win- victory of the got their first ning goal to get the Revolution season for victory of their past the Chicago Fire with a 1-0 BCC, 85-72. young season score and into their third straight On Nov. 9, against Johnson MLS Cup championship game. the Seahawks and Wales with a With a strong defense led by opened at score of 67-44. 2007 MLS Defender of the Year home de- After their Michael Parkhurst, Avery John feating Saint first three games, and Jay Heaps, the Revolution re- Petersburg their scoring lead- corded their third straight shutout College 102- ers are: Jessica in the playoffs. 72, and then Jadotte averag- The Revolution is looking to they went ing 11 points per crown their first MLS Cup cham- on the road game and Jessica pionship after having their hopes again visiting Auguste, Arlande frustrated in the 2002, 2005, and Lackawanna Cherizol and 2006 finals. This year they won College and Photo By David Cooper Katrina De Sue their first-ever tournament cham- getting their fourth victory so far. each with 9 points per game. pionship by winning the Lamar After the first four games Field Goal Percentage Leaders Hunt U.S. Open Cup. the scoring leaders are: Tony (3pt): Innekia Reedy (50%), The Revolution’s opponent is Dennison with an average of 23 Tierra Allen (40%) and Jessica none other than 2006 MLS Cup points per game, Devon Peterson Jadotte (33%). champion Houston Dynamo. The (20), Miklos Szabo (15) and Having a defensive aver- Dynamo beat the Revolution in Jamaal Bryant (15). Seahawks free age of almost 78 points scored one of the most thrilling finals in throw percentage: Ryan Kardok against, and an offensive average MLS history; as they tied 1-1 in (82%), Miklos Szabo (78%) and of 58 points per game, the Lady 120 minutes of play, the Dynamo Tony Dennison (76%). Seahawks need to tighten up their went on to win it in the penalty Having a defensive average of defense in order to become a con- shootouts. only 73 points allowed per game tender towards the playoffs. With only two years of ex- 20 The Observer SPORTS november 19, 2007

Heat Still Struggling Despite First Victory

David Aron competitive. lead, but Williams stole the ball Staff Writer The strategy nearly worked from Jamal Crawford to seal the several times prior to the game win. The Miami Heat finally broke against the Knicks. The Heat It wasn’t a pretty game to into the win column on Nov. 12, lost to the Indiana Pacers and watch from a fan’s perspective, beating the New York Knicks 75- Charlotte Bobcats by two points with both team’s failing to shoot 72 at Madison Square Garden. each. The Heat also lost to the more than 44% from the field. The victory came after Miami Phoenix Suns by five. The team’s The Heat won by playing defense, started off the season 0-5, its current lack of a star player who rebounding, and fighting for every worst mark since starting the can take over a game in the loose ball. That’s exactly how Pat 2003 season 0-7. closing moments has been Riley coached teams when they There are sev- a big factor in each loss. lack an elite offensive player. eral reasons for Against the “That’s the kind of game we the Heat’s slow Knicks, the Heat fi- play. Grind it out and play 48- start. Shaquille nally executed well minute games. We’re not trying O’Neal got off to in the final stretch of to play fast. We’re trying to play a rough start this the game. Down five with 2 under control. Hopefully we can year, scoring few- minutes to go, Udonis Haslem build on this one,” said Haslem. er than 10 points scored two consecutive bas- Wade will return soon, and in his first two kets. Jason Williams then at that point the Heat’s offense games. O’Neal buried a 16-foot jumper will open up again. Until then, has improved with 19 seconds remain- though, the Heat will have to win significantly in ing to put the Heat ahead games by being the tougher, grit- subsequent games, by one. The Knicks had tier team every night. but he still isn’t play- a chance to take back the ing well enough to carry the Heat Photo Courtesy of sports.yahoo.com on his own. In addition, the Heat added several new players to the roster in the off-season. It takes time for new players to become ac- climated to a new system and to become familiar with their new teammates. The biggest reason for Miami’s struggles has been the absence of three time all-star Dwayne Wade. Wade has missed the first six games of the season while recov- ering from off-season knee and shoulder surgeries. It’s difficult to overstate how dependent the Heat is upon Wade for offense. Wade is by far the team’s best scorer, having aver- aged 27.4 points per game in the 06-07 season. Using his tremen- dous quickness, Wade regularly draws extra defenders toward him when attacking the basket. This creates open shot opportunities for his teammates. The absence of Wade has been a major factor in O’Neal’s dimin- ished effectiveness. Defenses have been able to focus on stop- ping O’Neal, since Wade hasn’t been on the court. All of these factors put to- gether have resulted in the Heat being ranked last in points per game through the first 6 games of the year. Without Wade to carry the offense, the Heat has had to resort to slowing the game down and playing tough defense to stay

Photo Courtesy of sports.yahoo.com november 5, 2007 The Observer 19 22 The Observer Opinion november 19, 2007 The Observer KevinThe rosenberg Policy’syou should go R to class,eal and be VThese ictims are the students that are staff writer grateful that your education is being discriminated against. This being paid for. There is no reason policy is an injustice to them. Wants You! Attending class is vital to to complain that the attendance They are using their money. achieve a good grade. If you are policy is unfair. If you still feel They should be able to come and not in class than you will not be the need to complain (Remember: go as they please without fear aware of what areas are being we are adults) maybe you should of receiving a failing grade for The Observer is covered on that subject, and seek out those individuals that are missing a few classes. currently looking for you may also miss important abusing the financial aid system These self-reliant students are new staff members. information given by not the problem. They are the professor. Yes, we smart enough to realize Writing, copy editing, are in college and we The true victims of this that you have to attend and layout design should not have to be attendance policy are class if you expect to get treated like children. a good grade. Also, since positions are open. We are in college and the students who are they are paying out of their Scholarships we are expected to act not on financial aid. own pocket, they know that may be like adults. Despite not attending class not only this, the college has robs them of an education available. enforced a mandatory attendance but they also would be wasting Interested? policy: If you do not go to class and give them a piece of your their hard earned cash. you will fail. mind. It is their fault that this The policy should only affect Email the This policy is not for our policy is in effect. those students who are on financial Obsevrer at benefit. It is not an incentive to The true victims of this aid. Their names should be called BCCObserver@ make us excel in school. Rather attendance policy are the students out in every class to make sure it is a way for the school to keep who are not on financial aid. They that they are not abusing the gmail.com track of those students who are are paying for a higher education system and depriving yet another abusing the financial aid system. with their own money yet they are potential student from receiving If you are on financial aid also required to attend all classes. financial aid. English

Anyone?Hailey Granatelli contributing writer

Walking through the halls of BCC, I am overcome with a feel- ing of alienation – and quite frank- ly, annoyance. Conversations floating around, whether person to person or over the phone, seem to be in every language except one: English. When I hide away in the library in an attempt of seeking silent solitude it follows me. Two students sit next to me rambling in Spanish. It is literally inescapable. It’s not just at school – its ev- erywhere! Once when I was at Publix, I couldn’t find any food coloring and asked an employee for assistance. The response: “Que?” The last time I checked, this was America… right? I’m sure that if someone didn’t know me, the automatic response would be, ‘She’s racist!’ But I can assure you that is entirely un- true. The majority of my friends are of Hispanic decent. They just have enough common courtesy to speak in the “dominant” language of this country. It may sound obnoxiously rude, but I don’t find it too much to ask for people living in America to speak English. I’m completely understanding of the fact that families from other countries want to hold on to their culture. I also understand that South Florida (like the majority of the country) is very diverse. But we are still apart of the 50 nifty English- speaking United States. I cannot comprehend why I should have to learn a foreign language to locate an item at my local supermarket, or to ask for directions, or (because I moved here from another state) to make new friends. If I moved to Spain, Japan, France, or any other coun- try, should I expect the people there to speak English for me? I didn’t think so. november 19, 2007 Opinion The Observer 23 Dear Editor, Kid abuse? Not in their Nation Don’t tell me how to study John Wilson psychologists interviewed some well being. Lest we forget, this is Staff writer participants to make sure there a capitalist country; cheating and The math lab is supposed to be a place to study, get work done and was nothing troubling them in the exploitation is truly the American get some free tutoring in case a student has any questions. It’s branch This season a new reality experience. And, when some kids Way! Where else can children off of the library. Within the library everyone studies at their own show appeared on CBS. From either got popped in the face with building a semblance of a society pace and with or without headphones. There are no rules or regula- its preproduction stage onward it grease or foolishly drank bleach with “Survivor”-type challenges tions that do not allow students to listen to music with head phones was criticized for the inhumane from an unmarked container get paid $20K for being a model in the library. So my question is… Why are students not allowed to aspects of treatment to the indi- (without smelling it), there was citizen? Is there any student who listen to music with head phones in the math lab? This has been ab- viduals. These aspects include an ambulance ready to send them goes to BCC who can easily show solutely prohibited from the Math Lab. From my own experience I psychological problems, emo- to emergency! Comparing this to proof of being paid $20K or $5K study math better with the stimulation of music. I have no intention tional instability, injuries during what the Human Rights Watch or- in a week? I know not! of talking to the person next to me and disrupt- the shooting of the show; all these ganization has documented about For more on exploita- i n g others within the library or math and other concerns exposed by child labor around the world: tion, how about the loopholes lab. Usually those who are not the concerned adults. It’s rather “The human rights abuses that CBS used in getting the show listening to music are indeed obvious what the name of this in these practices are clear and moving? Filmed in New Mexico, talking to their peers and show is: Kid Nation. What most acute. We have found similar which at the time had the most lax disrupting those around people tend to forget is that as far problems in Asia, the Middle laws concerning child labor, the them and sometimes dis- as child labor is concerned, they East, Latin America, and the adults in charge claimed that in- rupting the entire lab. I are LUCKY! So many points to United States: children who work stead of town reclamation it was a think we should be able to prove how fortunate they are to for too many hours and too many summer camp. listen to music as long as be in this position just to show days, for too little, or sometimes It’s like, with all that is the volume is not disrupt- how foolish the complaints are! no pay, subject often to physical going on with this country alone, ing anyone. Everyone has First of all, there’s this notion abuse, exposed to dangerous pes- with incompetence concerning different preferences on how that the kids are by themselves ticides, and made to work with our leader and the failures of they like to study and honest- putting in this work with no adult too dangerous tools.” It is hard healthcare and education and pov- ly I think the rules of no head supervision, even though for the to feel empathic toward the so- erty and whatnot, people choose phones in the math lab are un- whole time they were surround- called abuses. to find fault in a children’s show fair and uncalled for. ed by producers and a camera As a matter of opinion, it seems that’s really for adult amuse- crew. Also, after the taping of that the only abuse is that of ac- ment? the show wrapped up, a team of tual adults with concerns for the Only in this country.

Sincerely, Jessica Osorio

The textbook scam continues

Textbooks are a scam. Paying upwards of $70 per class for a book after tuition is unfair. This is a community college and used books should be the staple of required reading. Assigning the new ninth edition of

Beginning Algebra just photo courtesy of nytimes.com because they publishers Kids from the show living and working in a society without adults. slapped a new cover on the same 500 pages is ludicrous. H a s some new ground breaking e q u a t i o n b e e n discovered that makes the eighth edition null? Not to mention the bookstore won’t buy back the “old” edition. So now I’m stuck with Got an opinion? a fascinating read for some idle Tuesday night when I’m restless for some quadratic equations. A message to professors: please stop buying into this scam, we have enough expenses buying scantrons, The Observer wants to know about it! Write a paying for overpriced less than quality cafeteria food and paying for parking tickets in that hellhole of a parking lot. Give us a break. letter to the Editor, and we may put in the paper. Change has to start somewhere. Sincerely, Nicolas Rodriguez

The Observer is a bi-weekly consolidated newspaper produced by students of Broward Com- editor-in-chief Managing Editor munity College. The editorial office is located at South Campus, Bldg. 68-268, 7200 Pines heather Dulman Nathan Phelps Blvd., Pembroke Pines, FL 33024. Bureau Offices are located at North Campus, 1000 Co- conut Creek Blvd., Coconut Creek, FL, 33066, and Central Campus, 3501 SW Davie Rd, Section Editors CONTRIBUTING writers STAFF WRITERS Davie, FL. The Observer can also be reached by phone at 954-201-8877 or e-mail at Layout Editor Archie Asar David Aron [email protected]. Heather Cooper Gracia Bonilla Natalie Bobb Copy Editor Alberto Sanchez Jade Brown Cody McGowan Letters to the editor are encouraged. The writer’s name and phone number must be includ- ed and the letter signed. Unsigned letters will not be accepted, but requests for anonymity Sports Editor Hailey Granatelli Buzz Lamb Omar Torrijos may be honored at the editor’s discretion. Letters must be typed and not exceed 300 words. Jena Lewis Sharday Moshanko Opinion Editor The Observer upholds the right to edit for style or length or to reject publications of letters Angela Osborne Susan McGowan Bruno Niccoli deemed inappropriate. Central Chief Jessica Osario Kevin Rosenberg Jessica Beans Broward Richard Schwartz Katrina Ward North Chief For information concerning editorial policy or advertising rates, call 954-201-8035. Community College Anthony Perrucci Susan Schwartz John Wilson Anna Rot Opinions expressed in this publication are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect 2006 FCCPA General Adviser assistant those of BCC students, staff, faculty and administration. Excellence Award Jennifer Shapiro Chris Cutro 24 The Observer november 19, 2007

Thanksgiving Day What is BCC in other cultures Thankful For? Natalie Bobb Jessica Beans Staff Writer Central Bureau Chief

Thanksgiving Day is a staple in American culture. Like the Plymouth Ever since the Pilgrims landed on Plymouth Rock in 1620, Americans colonists who participated in the first Thanksgiving, many people who alike continued celebrating the traditional Thanksgiving Day holiday. celebrate the holiday today were not born and raised in the United Whether its turkey, football, or family, everyone has their own take on States. the special day. You may be thinking that giving “thanks” has gotten to Gavin Henriques, a BCC student who was born in Jamaica, said that become a little lame. Well, not if you ask students all over BCC. The mood while he and his family have celebrated Thanksgiving for as long as he for this year’s Thanksgiving is fitting: appreciative. Here are what many can remember, they always fuse aspects of their Jamaican culture with students and teachers are thankful for and what Thanksgiving means to American traditions. them. “Even though we never ate turkey in Jamaica, we always have a tur- key at Thanksgiving dinner,” said Henriques. “We also have jerk chick- Food, food, and food! I’m just kidding. My family sits around en, steamed fish and rum cake for dessert,” he added. According to James W. Baker, Senior Historian at the Plimoth “together and after we eat, we’re all joking around and talking; it’s Plantation, the Thanksgiving holiday is an invented tradition that does not originate in any one event. It is based on the New England puritan nice. But ya gotta like the food! Thanksgiving, which is a religious Thanksgiving, and the traditional har- vest celebrations of England. The first Thanksgiving was not repeated; - Jevon Curtis, 20, undecided major. “ thus, it did not mark the beginning of a tradition for the pilgrims. Thanksgiving officially became a holiday in 1939 when President Since I moved out of my parent’s house, I never see them. So Franklin D. Roosevelt set the date to the fourth Thursday of November. It was approved by Congress in 1941. Before that, in 1863, Abraham “Thanksgiving is the time we all see each other and catch up, I love Lincoln appointed a day of Thanksgiving as the last Thursday in November. It has become a tradition for each president to issue a it can’t wait! Thanksgiving Day proclamation. For BCC graduate Camille Elliott, who was also born in Jamaica, - Maria De Santos,“ 22, criminal justice major Thanksgiving did not become a tradition until she was in high school. “My mom and I don’t have much family here [in South Florida] so Thanksgiving to me means family! I am very thankful for that. on Thanksgiving Day we would just stay home and do nothing,” said Elliott. “- Professor Delia Encin, ESL/Reading Dep’t. “ That all changed for Elliott when she started to spend Thanksgiving Day with her father and her stepmother. While her father does not have It means I’m gonna get fat again! I don’t know what happens, I plan much family living in South Florida either, Elliot said that there are more than enough friends to share in the festivities. “out every year that I’m not gonna get crazy and not pig out. “Everybody cooks and brings something to dinner,” said Elliott. “We don’t cook a turkey, though. No one ever eats it,” she added. - Shameka Merke, 20, business major “

Seasonal Recipes: Pumpkin Brownies Part One: The Brownies Part Two: The Frosting Ingredients: 1/2 c. butter, softened Ingredients: 6 oz. cream cheese 2 c. brown sugar 1/2 c. butter 1 (16 oz.) can of pumpkin 1/2 tsp. baking soda 2 tsp. vanilla 1/2 tsp. salt 2 c. powdered sugar 1 tsp. vanilla 1 1/2 c. flour 1 1/2 c. uncooked oats Step One: Simply beat all the ingredients together and 1 tsp. baking powder frost the brownies. 2 eggs 2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice 1/2 c. walnuts, chopped

Step One: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Then grease and flour (15 1/2 x 10 1/2 inch) jelly roll pan or 2 (9 inch) cake pans.

Step Two: Combine butter, sugar, pumpkin, eggs and vanilla; blend well. Stir in flour, oats, baking powder, baking soda, salt, spices and nuts.

Step Three: Put batter in the greased pan and bake for 25-30 minutes.

Step Four: Frost with cream cheese icing after cooling Photo courtesy of candle-licious.com and Enjoy. Pumpkin Brownies are a little taste of Autumn.