No. 23 Published by the Students of Montgomery County Community College, Blue Bell & Pottstown, Pa. May/June 2010 Meet Some Top Graduates from the Class of 2010 By Emmanuella Jean-Ulysse grade-point average above 3.5. college faculty and his many cam- Staff Writer The majority of the estimated pus activities. They include serving 1,300 graduates completed as president of the MCCC Honors At 18, Matt Keene is finishing coursework at the Central Campus Club, senator for the Student Gov- what most people his age havenʼt in Blue Bell. There are 227 who ernment Association, senator and even begun to start. completed their studies at the West board member of the Drama Club, And heʼs finishing perfectly. Campus in Pottstown, according to member of the ACE as well as On May 20, Keene will graduate the college. CAP-G and the International Club. from Montgomery County Commu- The college expects to award Keene is a national finalist in the nity College with a perfect grade- 671 associate degrees in science, All-USA Academic Team, was point average. Heʼs the youngest 378 associate degrees in applied nominated to the USA Today All- among this crop of graduates and science and 117 associate degrees USA Academic Team and the is among 16 students who have in arts. Coca-Cola All State Academic earned a 4.0 GPA. Parents, spouses and friends will Team. More than 1,300 graduates will mark what has been an excep- “My first semester at the college, receive diplomas at the spring tional year for Montco and its high- being only 15, was quite a trying 2010 Graduate Matt Keene commencement, which for the first achieving students. semester,” Keene recalled, adding Photo by Dennis Verbo, Photo Editor time in recent memory will be held Keene, who will graduate with a that he befriended many students off the Central Campus in Blue degree in liberal studies, said heʼs who wanted to get the most out of back.” Bell. The 7 p.m. commencement going to miss the campus but real- their education. That, he said, After graduation, Keene said he will be at the Valley Forge Conven- izes that his future canʼt wait. “makes going here that much more would like to be an astrophysicist. tion Center in Upper Merion. “If I did not have to pursue my enjoyable.” Heʼs awaiting a decision from the According to early figures pro- career, I would stay at Montco in- Whatʼs his advice to students? University of California at Berkeley. vided by the college, the graduat- definitely,” he said. “Try Montco, give it a shot and ing class is about 20 percent larger He attributes his success to the go for it ʻhead-firstʼ – no holding cont. on page 3 than the class that received diplo- mas last May. The numbers for the May 20 commencement include men and women who either com- No Place For Hate at Temple pleted studies in the summer or fall Threat of a protest by radical church group prompts students to rally for peace and tolerance of 2009 and who expect to com- plete coursework this spring or By Tara Durkin, Staff Writer stage a counter-protest of the Web site. summer. More than 400 graduates radical Westboro Baptist Church When they learned that West- will have earned a cumulative Dressed as Jesus and carry- of Topeka, Kan. boro Baptist would send protest- ing a donation box, Gregory Par- But it soon became clear that ers to Temple on April 1, adis brushed aside his long blond the threat was empty. Thatʼs members of Purple Circle, a hair and hugged a group of girls when the large crowd turned its branch of the schoolʼs Queer Stu- in Temple T-shirts. ire into a rally for peace and dent Union, quickly arranged a In this Issue The girls dropped a couple of human rights. counter-protest. dollars in the box, prompting Par- Westboro Baptist is known for The church had reportedly News...... pgs 1-6 adis to yell, “I love you!” protesting military funerals. Mem- planned to voice opposition to the There was much love shown bers attribute soldier deaths to schoolʼs performance of the Op / Ed...... pg 8-10 on the Temple campus on April the United Statesʼ tolerance of AIDS-awareness rock musical Foolʼs Day, but only because a homosexuality. And they believe “Rent” and “The Laramie Project,” A & E...... pgs 12-15 church that preaches hate had tornadoes are sent by God to a play about the 1998 hate-crime threatened a protest. punish the nationʼs morally killing of 21-year-old Matthew That threat spurred more than twisted citizens. Church members Shepard, a gay youth from Campus & 1,100 students, faculty, neighbor- carry signs that say “God Hates Laramie, Wyo. Community...... pg 16 hood residents and activists to Fags,” a reference to the churchʼs cont. on page 4 The Montgazette, Page 2 News From the Editor-in-Chief

It seems odd to be writing this letter, which more of what it should be: the studentʼs voice. No. 23 May/June 2010 is my last editorʼs letter. I remember taking the This is all due to my staff. position of editor and thinking, “how am I am I would also like to say a huge thank you to Editor-in-Chief: Renee Bergandino going to be in the nursing program and be the my advisors, Alana Mauger and Harry editor of a school paper?” I was scared, nerv- Yanoshak, because without them I would of Photography Editor: Dennis Verbo ous and all around unsure if I could make it have been lost. Believe me, there have been work, but I learned a lot about myself in these many hard times with the paper, but both Harry Online Editor: Brian J. Nichols past months. and Alana have always been right by my side In a radio interview with Dr. Karen Stout, I and guided me. My amazing writers, you all Montgazette Staff Alessandra Aste told her that this was probably one of the hard- know who you are, thank you so much for Shanel Burroughs est things for me to do, to step up to the plate everything each of you has done. I encourage Norman Detweiler as editor-in-chief. I knew for a fact that nursing you to keep on writing whether it is for The Kevin Devine came first no matter what, but I was lucky to Montgazette or another college newspaper. Paul Dittmar have such amazing people by my side that Also, Iʼd like to give a big shout out to my Tara Durkin guided me and sent me in the right directions. I awesome photographers; each of you has Paul Goraczko do know for a fact that without the staff I was made an impact. Without your photos to go Kerri Hughes blessed with, this paper would not have been along with the stories, the paper wouldnʼt be Evan Kravitz as exceptional as it was. what it is today. Nirmal Makadia I was lucky enough to have such excep- I have such confidence that the paper will John Ozga tional writers who were willing to take stories to continue to grow with the guidance of the new Hannah Sweeney the next level. Not only would they do what editor, Kevin Devine. I have such faith him-- Emmanuella Jean-Ulysse was asked, but they took it a step further, and I tons of luck Kevin! believe that The Montgazette has become With that being said, I want to thank every Contributors: Lillian Allen-Betts person who has Patrick Costelli touched my life on Chris DiFerdinando this campus. It has Karla Dumas been an amazing Madison Hart few years. I have Aaron Leimbach met some amazing Ryan Teterus people who have Courtney Wilkerson made me who I am today, and I thank Masthead Design: John Straw you all for that. Just remember, take Faculty Editorial Advisor: chances, because Harry Yanoshak without me taking chance, I would have Managing Advisor: Alana J. Mauger never done all that I did--and I am hon- The Montgazette is published on the first Tuesday of estly very grateful I every month, September-December and did. February-May, by the students of Montgomery County Community College. Sincerely, Correspondence should be emailed to [email protected]. Members of the 2009-2010 staff of The Montgazette. Renee Bergandino Photo courtesy of Jenna Meehan The deadline for the next issue is Aug. 23, 2010.

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Leadership positions are available. The Montgazette is printed by Montgomery Email [email protected] for info. Newspapers, Exton, Pa., The Montgazette, Page 3 News SGA president for the Central Campus and a Top Graduates Phi Theta Kappa member. She was also a cont. from page 1 member of the President Leadership Council and the All-Pennsylvania Academic Team. Graduate Patricia OʼMalley said sheʼs thank- OʼMalley has had to show exemplary leader- ful that the college provided her with the chance ship amid family-related challenges. She re- to love learning. evaluated her plans of becoming a professional “I was possibly the worst high school student dancer to stay with her mother, who had devel- ever, so I had to start from scratch, learning the oped a brain tumor. OʼMalley showed resiliency basics again and even teaching myself how to after she had taken a year off from school to study was difficult,” OʼMalley said. Sheʼs the care for her mother, a single parent. She will graduate with a degree in biological sciences and will apply to schools to pursue a 2010 Graduate Mary Thompson (third from right) with fellow Alternative Spring Break team. pharmacy career. Photo courtesy of MCCC Graduate Mary Thompson said a college- Student Leadership & Involvement Office. sponsored, community-service trip billed as an alternative Spring Break helped her learn new certification to teach history. skills while helping the poor. Thompson also earned a perfect GPA and at- “This was a great community service trip,” she tributed her achievements and success to her recalled about the experience building houses strong faith. in Virginia for Habitat for Humanity. “I learned Whatʼs her advice to fellow Montco students? measuring for outdoor siding and using a power “Pick [the] New Testament, start at the begin- saw.” ning and find out what matters, ultimately. Fol- Thompson, who teaches Sunday school, said low the directions of the teachers. If they say 2010 Graduate Patricia OʼMalley. she would like to pursue biblical studies at the Photo courtesy of MCCC PR Office write three pages, write three pages. Just do it.” Philadelphia Biblical University and receive a

African Student Association Hosts Benefit Concert By Emmanuella Jean-Ulysse, Staff Writer people in and around the capital of Port-au- Prince. About 97,300 homes were destroyed College Hall pulsed with rhythm as Mont- and more than 188,000 homes were dam- gomery County Community Collegeʼs African aged, the geological survey reported. Student Association hosted a benefit for The ASA president, Comfort Dassin, Haitiʼs earthquake victims and St. Judeʼs Chil- served as the nightʼs emcee and thanked the drenʼs Research Hospital. Montco audience for their support. A long line of students moving to the music “I felt it was important to create an event signaled that the April 9 concert would spell to help with the earthquake devastation and success. Besides the beats, the crowd also also contribute locally to the childrenʼs hospi- enjoyed the large assortment of foods. tal,” she said. More than $500 went to earthquake relief Artists with talents in Gospel, rap, hip-hop, MCCC students lent their talents to the cause. and childrenʼs research, organizers esti- spoken word, contemporary and modern Photo by Emmanuella Jean-Ulysse, Staff Writer mated. music and interpretive and African dance en- Dr. Garvey Lundy welcomed the crowd tertained the crowd. and briefly reviewed Haitiʼs history, explaining The performers included Jai Thompson, Marie, a student from Haiti, said she was that itʼs important to understand the countryʼs Transition the House Band, The Lost Docs, pleased with the turnout. impoverished background and not to cast Lauren Deslonde, Co-OP Crew, Deuce Crush “I was happy that others in the community judgment on its people. & Funkettes, Jodi, Francesco Basta, Kyarah care so much about Haiti and whatʼs going on The magnitude-7 quake struck Haiti on Marie, Sincerity and David Cooper. with my family. It brought great joy to see the Jan. 12 and killed more than 222,000 people The crowd included local high school stu- college come together to help people so poor. and injured more than 300,000, according to dents who plan to attend Montco and are par- My father was in Haiti when the earthquake the U.S. Geological Survey. The quake and ticipating in the collegeʼs preparedness hit and he continues to survive because of its aftermath displaced at least 1.3 million program. outside help.” The Montgazette, Page 4 News

About 700 stood in front of the stu- No Place For Hate dent center and another 400 stood cont. from page 1 in front of the schoolʼs Tomlinson Theater. The crowd at Templeʼs event In an e-mail sent to The was much larger than organizers Montgazette, a spokeswoman for had anticipated. Westboro Baptist said church “We beat their asses with love members had more important mat- instead of that crappy hate theyʼve ters to tackle on April 1. been spreading,” Connor Hesketh, “Some days, GodSmacks come the events coordinator for Purple and we have to change our sched- Circle, said. ule to do something more current Many in the crowd dressed in than another run-of-the-mill rainbow-colored T-shirts and car- Laramie Project Rebellion!” ried signs sporting peaceful decla- spokeswoman Shirley Phelps- rations to tongue-in-cheek slogans Roper, the daughter of church such as “God Hates Figs.” leader Fred Phelps, said in the e- Hesketh said students from at mail. least eight area schools attended. Counter-protesters carry signs at Temple University. Photo by Tara Durkin, Staff Writer

MCCC Battle of the Bands At the event, Heather Bosak, a partner say their decision not to graduate student studying political marry is a way to protest state laws The MCCC Honors Club, in collaboration with Montco Radio science at Temple, said Westboro that ban same-sex marriage. and the Communications Department, recently hosted a "Battle of Baptist – a listed hate group by the Evan Asbow was among the the Bands" fundraiser on April 19 in the MCCC "quad." Anti-Defamation League – nor- U.S. Marines who attended the Students enjoyed more than three hours of great music and mally sends about five to 15 pro- counter-protest. He said that he feasted on pretzels and soft drinks as student bands and local testers. Bosak says it has been a was happy to show support for his groups performed. recent trend for the group to fallen brothers who were targeted Seven bands, two solo guitarists/vocalists, and two hip-hop acts schedule protests and not show by the churchʼs picketing. were part of the event, which raised about $150 for the ICEC2 up, and she speculated that it Besides speaking out against charity that's building a school and community center in Nigeria. might be a tactic for members to intolerance, students also donated The winner of the competition, Wynrise, will have its own show at Montco during the summer or fall semester. spread their message without trav- to charities that support gay rights. eling around the country. Students from Muhlenberg College Randi Fair, a student at the collected donations for HAVEN, a Community College of Philadel- charitable organization in the phia, attended the counter-protest Lehigh Valley for gay and lesbian with her son, Brooks, 3, and her youth who have been kicked out of partner, Matt. Fair says she has a their homes. Templeʼs Purple Cir- strong attachment to the equal- cle also collected donations for the rights issue. ATTIC Youth Center, which helps “Honestly, I canʼt believe we still Center City gay, lesbian, bi-sexual have to fight for this! It's ludicrous and trans-gender youth. that who a person sleeps with de- Paradis, who besides dressing termines, in this country's eyes, as Jesus also claims to have found whether they can fight for our a personal connection with Christ, country, be parents and hold cer- says he has wanted to protest tain jobs.” Westboro Baptist for about 10 Fair says she believes that itʼs years now. important to bring her son along to “Jesus and God are love, not teach him that “we have a civic re- hate.” sponsibility to stand up for our- The hip hop trio ECOMOG raps at a battle of the bands presented by the Honors Club and Montco Radio. selves and others and demand Photo by Dennis “BE BOP” Verbo, Photography Editor change.” She and her opposite-sex The Montgazette, Page 5 The Montgazette, Page 6 News Montco Students Have Big Plans For Online Business By Paul Goraczko, Staff Writer lege that I started to be more image. has completed promotional videos aware of my abilities.” Both men share a common love for a studio in New Jersey. Brenton McDowell and Shawn McDowell, who majors in mar- of music, and each has his own big “Little by little, the business is Vela say they want to conquer keting, says Philadelphia Media is dream. growing,” he says, adding that ex- Philadelphia. a production company whose goal “We both had the same type of pansion is the key. So these two eager Mont- is to assist independent musicians. ideas,” says McDowell. “Together, “Weʼve made it past the organi- gomery County Community Col- “The main purpose of our com- weʼre reaching our goals.” zational steps, but weʼre looking to lege students have formed their pany is to provide industry-quality McDowell acknowledges that gain clientele and expand.” own online business. They call it music and video production to in- the business will face obstacles. At this point, the business oper- Philadelphia Media. dependent artists at a reasonable “It takes money to make money, ates online, but Vela has bigger as- Vela, an international business price,” he says. but weʼre taking it one step at a pirations. major, says he always had entre- For McDowell and Vela, itʼs all time. Weʼre taking the steps we “In five years, I hope to see preneurial ambitions. about the music and the musi- need to take, and letting God han- Philadelphia Media have an actual “I've always had the desire to cians. dle the rest.” location.” start my own business,” he says. Vela says the company wants Adds Vela: “Everything is in For more information, the Web “It wasn't until I attended Mont- to help an independent or up-and- steps.” address is www.philadelphiame- gomery County Community Col- coming musician expand his or her Vela noted that the company dia.net

By Courtney Wilkerson porterʼs opinion, the energy from Culture is in the Air the phenomenal performances Great people, great food and could have lit up a city. Many of belly dancing! the performers showed theyʼre There was much to enjoy at ready for a spot on “Americaʼs Montgomery County Community Best Dance Crew” or “American Collegeʼs first-ever International Idol.” Festival on April 20. The event helped raise money Lining the walking path be- for earthquake relief projects in tween College and Parkhouse Haiti. It was sponsored by Mont- halls on the Central Campus gomery County Community Col- were free exhibits that show- legeʼs International Club and the cased the culture and cuisine of collegeʼs Office of Student Lead- more than two dozen countries ership. and several continents. International Club Vice Presi- Students and ethnic restau- dent Brittany Delaware said the rants prepared the food and festival was a success and that servers encouraged everyone to student turnout had surpassed have a taste. A line of smiling, expectations. The event was the and hungry, students and staff talk of Facebook for days. soon formed around what ------MCCC Students Dalal Faiq, Brittany Delaware, Jennifer Walsh, Lindsay Sullivan amounted to a global banquet set Editorʼs Note: Courtney Wilker- Fatimazahra El Belghiti demonstrate belly dancing during the first-ever International up buffet-style. son had luck on her side while Night. Crowds also gathered be- covering the International Festi- Photo by Nirmal Makadia, Staff Photographer neath a large tent to enjoy cultur- val. She said she took home ally traditional music, dance and three raffle prizes. a global fashion show. In this re-

The Montgazette staff wishes the best of luck to MCCCʼs 2010 Graduates! The Montgazette, Page 7 The Montgazette, Page 8 Opinions/Editorials Letters to the Editor

Dear Editor: them. Everyday people whose parents die from God Bless! drug addiction, depression or disease. This letter is in response to the article about No one seems to care or find out where the Sincerely, students from the suburbs who dress and act angry black kid, the depressed white kid or the Jared Clemons like "gangsters." eccentric, quiet Asian kid first developed their President- West Campus Here is my question for the author: How societal idiosyncrasies. No one seems to ask, many of those people did you stop and talk to? "Are you OK? Is there something I may help ------How many stories did you hear before reaching you with? Would you like to talk?" the conclusion that because we are now in the I am sure there are people on this campus Dear Editor: suburbs that there is no reason for these people who walk around like "gangsters" because peo- to dress and act like they do? ple do it on TV. But if that is likely, then I must In response to the article titled “Advising I feel compelled to remind people to remem- also assume there are people on this campus 101” written by Emmanuella Jean-Ulysse Iʼd like ber that there are places where people have who suffered hardships that I cannot fathom. to state, as an academic advisor at the West nothing or, worse, had something taken from If you really want to see people stop walking Campus, that this article was insightful and well around angry or defensive, then stop complain- written. The points outlined are great sugges- ing about how they look. Don't tell them to tions that every student should follow. Advisors change -- it's unrealistic. Change takes time. really work with students to try and ensure the Be the first to find out best possible schedule and fit for a student, but Signed, if the student comes prepared with a degree about weather-related George Ross Lewis program and an open mind, the session will al- ways proceed much more smoothly. closings & other ------A few more tips to consider: If you are a stu- dent and feel lost do not hesitate to talk to a important notifications. Hey MCCC: peer mentor in the Student Success center, they are an excellent resource prior to seeking I hope this year was fun and successful and advice from an advisor. They have been in your I only wish nothing but the best in your future shoes and know what you are going through, Sign up for text and/or endeavors. they can help you navigate web advisor, run email alerts.at It really has been an amazing year, and I your degree audit, give you a tour of the cam- would just like to say how thankful I am to have pus or just help you get ready to talk to an advi- www.mc3.edu/txt. served as the Student Government Association sor with suggestions of how to prepare for your president for the West Campus. meeting. Outline several careers or degrees As the mass media remind us of our flawed that you are thinking about, write them down country, I can only hope the news will motivate and bring that info with you to the advising ses- Please note that you us to take action. We can do many things on a sion, you may forget them when you actually sit smaller scale that can make a huge difference down with an advisor if you donʼt have them in need to resubscribe for in the future. front of you. We need to recognize that we are a team Lastly, be proactive in your education donʼt the service every two thatʼs affected by every one of our actions. And let it just happen to you, take the initiative and with every action you plant a seed. make it happen. Floating without direction is an years. You can update I can only think of this countryʼs future when uneasy feeling that can lead to frustration. Ex- your account by logging looking at the youth. It is our job to sow the plore your options, ask questions, search the in- seeds of integrity, hard work, dedication, a self- ternet and make a plan. We have many options in with the user name less attitude and perseverance – the very seeds at the college to help you succeed, take advan- that this country was founded upon. As we go tage of them and enjoy your time at Montco. and password you chose on to get our degrees and take on a career, I can only hope that most of us will take responsi- Best Regards, when you initially bility in our homes and communities to instill Francis P. O'Neill M.A. this countryʼs values. Psychology Instructor/Academic Advisor subscribed. So I leave you with these questions: What Montgomery County Community College - seeds will you sow for our countryʼs future? West Campus What will you do to make a difference? The Montgazette, Page 9 Opinions/Editorials Dear Students: Please Do Not Take Offense, But We Are The Ones Grading the Papers

By Lavar Pope, Adjunct Instructor, personalized e-mail to each ab- After six hours of making prepara- paper. Political Science stainer would take hours for me to tions, I can – finally – grade the pa- After I hand the papers back to produce and could come off as pers. my class, I then read Ms. Asteʼs I foolishly thought by now Iʼd threatening. Consider this: if each paper is biting criticism of the paper-writing start grading 62 three-page papers Besides, Iʼm a college profes- three pages and if I have about 60 process in The Montgazette. for my two political science sor, not a high school or middle- students to teach, then I can ex- She wants to staple papers in classes. school teacher. pect – in a perfect world – to read, the “upper-right hand corner” and But that was more than six Back to the matter of stapling critically assess, and offer feed- completely undermine left-to-right hours ago. the loose papers. I donʼt own a sta- back for 180 page of written work. direction of English written text? Since then, I have taken the pler; anything I write is more than THIS IS OK because I LOVE my Hey, at least she bothered turning extra, important steps that make a 40 pages thick – too thick for a job. in the paper and at least it is sta- “finished paper” ready for grading. standard stapler. So I ask my fi- I like helping students become pled. Itʼs frustrating, confusing and dis- ancée to use her stapler. Oops, we better writers, even if some donʼt I should consider myself lucky. heartening. ran out of staples. You see, this is care enough to even turn in a Itʼs even more disheartening the third paper assignment this se- than the writing process outlined in mester that I had to use her sta- the opinion piece by Allessandra pler. Aste titled: “Dear Teachers: Do So I go to Wal-Mart and return Not Take Offense, But Students home with a box of staples. By Just Donʼt Understand.” now, I am hungry and have to cook First, more than a quarter of my fiancée dinner as a thank-you the papers that I received are not for using her stapler. stapled. Half of the unstapled pa- Since I donʼt use TurnItIn.com pers have no other type of attach- to guard against plagiarism, I have ment. And the other half have what to hand-check all of the papers I call a “Catholic school staple” against the book, past papers and (folded corner) or a paper clip. the entire world of information Before I put the papers in my bag about political science and interna- to take home, I have to be sure tional relations. Itʼs OK because I they remain in order. If not, John have the time and I shouldnʼt be Doeʼs second page, which is not using it to prepare for our class numbered, could get mixed up with meeting tomorrow and the day Jane Doeʼs third page, which is after. also not numbered. But wait. I canʼt grade the pa- Once home, I then check the pers just yet. I notice that more papers received against my class than a few students have forgotten rosters, and I learn that a quarter to: of the students didnʼt turn in a 1. Indicate which question they paper. Some have dropped the were answering. class because they didnʼt want to 2. Include page numbers. write the paper, some have forgot- 3. Include a bibliography. ten about the assignment and oth- I turn to the paper to see which ers just donʼt care about forfeiting question they are most likely an- 10 percent of their grade. swering and write in the page num- Should I contact all the students bers and bibliography. who did not turn in a paper? Whatʼs that I see? A couple of A mass e-mail targets the entire the papers are not printed in legi- class and punishes the innocent. A ble text, others use a 16-point font mass e-mail to the paper abstain- and two or three have highly ques- ers could hurt their feelings. And a tionable formatting and/or spacing. The Montgazette, Page 10 Opinions/Editorials Two Men and a Bookstore By Kevin Devine, Staff Writer up.” rate of more than 1,000 per day sation soon died down, and they Their conversation brought to and number about 2.5 million, the decided to go their separate ways. You can learn a lot by eaves- mind my grandfatherʼs experiences AP reported. “Well Jim, I better get going,” dropping. in World War II. He was a gunner in The man in the chair, who I soon Harry said, picking up a plastic bag “Yeah, they really gassed them,” the Pacific and flew 33 missions. learned was named Harry, spoke and denim jacket. I overheard one old man tell an- As the men talked, I noticed that about friends he had made and lost “Good luck, sir,” Jim said. other inside a Willow Grove book- fate had brought me here not only during the war. I couldnʼt imagine “You too,” Harry replied. store. Their talk had pulled me to eavesdrop but also to find Robert experiencing such a painful loss. I left the store thinking about through the store until I realized I Leckieʼs book “Helmet for My Pil- Jim, the auto mechanic, spoke what the two men had been was deep in the World War II book low,” which inspired the HBO series about his friends from the war, and through when they were my age. I section. From my spot in the next “The Pacific.” Iʼm a fan of the show. soon the two were playing the can honestly say that I have never aisle, I could watch and hear their I remained in the aisle and lis- name game about buddies they – and I highly doubt that I will ever conversation about the war and the tened to the men tell their stories. It had known. – go through what they had gone Holocaust. became clear that the auto me- “I remember one night,” Jim through. I will never know what itʼs “It was awful wasnʼt it,” one of chanic had helped in liberating a said, “we were moving in the dark. like to have real complaints. the men said while sitting. He concentration camp and stopping It was pitch-black and you couldnʼt Having a lot of papers due in a looked mean and fixed his eyes on the Nazi campaign to exterminate see anything in front of you. We certain amount of time may be a the floor. He wore a maroon the Jewish population. That was in- came under enemy fire and you pain, and Iʼd be lying if I said Iʼve sweater and sported a Temple Uni- credible to me. The opportunity to couldnʼt even see what you were never been a brat about it. But if I versity cap. meet, let alone see, a veteran who shooting at.” had a penny for every time I found “Terrible,” the other man said. had witnessed such atrocities is Eventually, the conversation something to complain about, Iʼd be He looked very old and had bright rare. turned to politics and the new gen- making my way to a CoinStar. blue eyes and strands of white hair. A recent story in the Associated eration of young men. They ex- But as of right now, the air smells He dressed like an auto mechanic Press said that World War II veter- changed growls about the fresh and the sun looks nice from with a navy blue Dickies coat and ans were once more than 16 million importance of hard work and how my window and that sure as hell is teal work pants. “They were piled strong. But they are now dying at a kids are so ungrateful. The conver- a lot better than a war. The Montgazette, Page 11 The Montgazette, Page 12 Arts & Entertainment Q & A with Philadelphia MC Tonik

By Lillian Allen-Betts the crafting, creation, recording and distribution T: No! Not at all, not at all. As an artist you of content by the artist, [then] the media would know what you mean but control what it may A local Philadelphia artist chimes in on how become a ʻcontrolled media.ʼ This can prevent mean to the world in the wrong or right hands. entertainment media has cast a plague on frag- confusion and misconceptions of the content Decide whether you should let it out of your ile adolescents and struggling minority families. hence, ʻcontrol the middle-man,ʼ the entertain- mouth the way it is presented – before it gets Youths, especially from minority families, are ment executives and so on. out of your sight. These children growing up dangerously engulfed in violent entertainment and still growing cannot always afford to misun- media – as much as seven hours and 38 min- LA-B: OK. OK. I like the way you brought up derstand what we say just because we were utes per day or about 53 hours per week, ac- that word, ʻcontrol.ʼ So, you say the uncon- careless. Some are paying harsh conse- cording to a three-year national survey released trolled content must be controlled by the quences for it today. If you as an artist knew Jan. 20 by The Henry J. Kaiser Family Founda- artist, right? how far your words [matter] to the youths would tion. you still just blend your words loosely? One local Philadelphia artist has witnessed T: Right. and experienced these dangerous issues first- LA-B: Yes! Yes! Yes! hand. Heʼs 24-year-old Brandon Betts, one of LA-B: With that said, what dimensions of Philadelphia's finest MCs who uses the stage this control do the media use? T: (Soft laughing) name “Tonik.” Betts has been writing and rapping since he T: As long as the control stays in the hands LA-B: What! I mean you said it, careless! was 10 and heʼs presently an unsigned artist of the media, the world will continue to receive whoʼs heavily involved in the music recording and adapt to the misconception of the media. T: (Loudly Laughing) industry. Tonik produces positive hip-hip, con- The line between the truth, perception and scious and gospel music. speculation is too far widespread when it comes LA-B: (Laughing) Youʼre laughing but you He hails from the back blocks of Sigel and to the media. As long as the people accept it, know it's true. McClellan streets in South Philadelphia – neigh- [then] we'll ʻkeep giving it to themʼ type of media borhoods that have been home to famous musi- – when the artist should remain responsible and T: No, I'm with you. cians like the The Roots, Eve, and Beanie in control of his or her message. Sigel. The media would have no choice but to ʻgive LA-B: Well, I want to thank you for taking In the Q&A, Betts strongly expressed his it how they get itʼ because the room for specula- the time to elaborate on what a lot of your perspective as an artist as well as a person who tion and perception will then and fully stay in the music is about. Let them try to manipulate grew up in a neighborhood of crime, violence hands of the listener – who is the intended tar- this! and senseless death. He also spoke about the get of the artist. direct and negative effects of hip-hop and enter- T: Ha! Ha! Right! No problem, youʼre quite tainment media. LA-B: Oh trust me, I understand. The artists welcome. should definitely be in control of their con- LA-B: What do you think about the media at- tent. I'd assume. But what's happening with LA-B: Now, In closing, I have one final ques- tacking American adolescents involved in that today? I mean, is it all about the artist, tion? entertainment media and hip-hop? media or people listening? Let's be honest. T: (Jokingly) Oh! Just one! I'm surprised. T: It starts and ends with the artists, and I T: OK. (Laughing) believe this as a man and an artist. Every artist, individually and as a person, depending upon LA-B: We were both children at one point LA-B: Ha Ha! Actually, in closing, I have one their perspective on the major issue. Before it and I don't remember it being this way. more question? If you can share as to the gets to the media, if the artist doesn't regulate reason why you believe these points you or control the output of his or her message, T: Me neither. I feel you completely. have made to be the answer to this issue? [then] the media will manipulate the message and consider it as just content instead of its in- LA-B: What do the youth today have to look T: To put it plainly, that one day of careless tended use. This can and often happens via the forward to from you as an artist as well as thinking, writing, speaking, recording, and dis- art of hip-hop whether the content promotes [from] other artists? tributing can allow the media to twist [mes- conscious thinking or plain and utter ignorance. sages] into a weapon of destruction toward not T: I personally do hold myself – as well as just adolescents but an entire generation. Now, LA-B: I see. What do you mean by ʻmanipu- any and every artist that graces a page with picture every one of those children, at one point late?ʼ Can you go into detail as to how this pen or pencil to create art with their mind and or another, looking us artists in the eye from a can happen under so many artists? heart – responsible for the way, shape and form violent or destructive standpoint because of their message is received by their listeners. Es- what was allowed to be given to them. The T: Well, consider the media a ʻmiddle-manʼ pecially when you are blessed with the gift of media is not the problem. We artists are the manipulating uncontrolled content that graces extraordinary thought and speech. problem and the solution, but we can choose to the airways through word of mouth, radio play, be one, the other or both when we craft and dis- advertising, etc. Mind you, I said ʻuncontrolled,ʼ LA-B: But it should not be taken literately. tribute our art through hip-hop. so that would mean that if control ran alongside The Montgazette, Page 13 Arts & Entertainment Matt Porter: Heart, Soul and Downright Cool

By Karla Dumas in tech services — almost like gram, “MC3 On the Air.” Communications professor Neil magic. He arranged for Paul Vidas, an Goldstein was the architect of Enter Matt Porterʼs office and Student Brenton McDowell, who audio major, to work as a sports in- Porterʼs present position, combin- find a place where creative minds works part-time in Tech Services, tern for Jeff Nolan at WNPV-AM in ing the part-time jobs of tech collaborate and rabbits are pulled says Porter keeps everything Lansdale. Porter also coordinated equipment manager and MC3 out of hats. under control. another girlʼs dream internship with Radio into a full-time faculty posi- As the Senior Producer and “It is a job well done on Mattʼs Gloria Estefan. tion. Matt went from being an ad- Technical Services Manager at part, making equipment appear vir- Then-communications program junct to a permanent fixture of the Montgomery County Community tually out of nowhere, available at coordinator John Gallagher hired program. College, Porter has earned his a momentʼs notice.” Porter in February 1998. At the Goldstein heralded Porter as place as the communications de- McDowell adds that Porter is “a time, Porter taught Com 104 and “the heart and soul of the [commu- partmentʼs “go-to” guy. great guy” who “makes everything “Studio,” a combined audio and nications] program.” Or, as Porter likes to say, heʼs easy.” video production class. just “being the right man in the Filmmaker and part-time film- right place at the right time.” editing instructor Jerry Collom In the words of many students characterizes Porterʼs cool vibe in and faculty, thereʼs no one better a way that speaks to Porterʼs per- than Porter to teach up-and-com- sonality. Album Review ing filmmakers their craft. Heʼs an “Itʼs like having the fifth member instructor who speaks from experi- of KISS with us at school here John Mayer: ence. every day,” Collom says. “He Porter got his start with Pen- keeps us rocking and rolling.” ‘Battle Studies’ nridge Community Video (PCV), Avid doesnʼt start to describe the student-run TV station of Pen- the fanaticism that Porter exhibits By Chris DiFerdinando nridge High School in Bucks toward KISS. County. Describing himself as “The Ulti- I wasnʼt much of a John Mayer fan, but after hearing his most re- He took advantage of the op- mate KISS Fan,” Porter crafted a cent releases “Who Says” and “Heartbreak Warfare,” I went out and portunity presented by his high video that blew away the competi- bought a copy of the Connecticut nativeʼs newest CD, “Battle Stud- school and ran with it. Besides tion in the contest by the same ies.” working as “Newsceneʼs” “Weather name. The video montage included The CD from the Grammy-winning singer/songwriter comprises Wizard,” Porter also produced footage from Porterʼs various visits 11 tracks, each of which have Mayerʼs signature soothing vocals short movies and music videos. He to KISS public appearances as accompanied by his even better talent on the guitar. The CD opens taped community events, talk well as pictures of his KISS shrine with “Heartbreak Warfare,” which deals with the stresses of relation- shows, high school sports and at home. ships. The track itself has a beautiful background bass sound with even an American Bandstand-style Confident in his work, Porter an even pace and a small amount of high finger-picking in between dance show. He would go out on said he knew he would win “The verses. location, camera in hand, at a time Ultimate KISS Fan” contest, and “Who Says” might be one of Mayerʼs most honest songs. In it, when camera equipment was too went backstage to meet the band he calls out the people that make those phantom rules we all live by expensive for most people. members. His contest entry can be and asks, “who says?” Porter has made himself a seen on YouTube. place in the video world through “Everyone has something that ʻWho says I can't be free taping, producing and editing. He they are into, whether itʼs sports, or From all of the things that I used to be helped Pennridge run its video pro- church, or collecting shoes, or Rewrite my history duction program, much as he does whatever. Itʼs just something that I Who says I can't be free?ʼ here at Montco. am really into,” he says. Porter said he enjoyed standing Porter skillfully juggles ever- The acoustic tone of the song brings forth the imagery of a shoulder to shoulder with teachers changing production needs and younger Mayer playing solo in small clubs and bars before he made from his youth. He said it was great can be found constantly editing it big. Going in this more contemporary direction is his track titled to be a colleague and running the some new project with boy-like ex- “Perfectly Lonely.” This upbeat and optimistic song will have you Media Center and be in charge of uberance. This joy is beautiful to dancing or, at the very least, bobbing your head to the catchy cho- programming and schedules. watch, and he lets students in to rus and guitar riffs. The consensus at Montco is that witness the creation. Released on the Columbia label, “Battle Studies” is Mayerʼs Porter is downright cool. Besides making technical fourth album in his music career. After listening to the CD a few He stays current with audio and equipment available for student times, itʼs almost hard not to have a smile when the music stops. video technologies, and seems to and faculty projects and college make creative media tools appear events, Porter runs the radio pro- The Montgazette, Page 14 Arts & Entertainment New Jersey Singer/Songwriter Assists Children with AIDS

By Madison Hart pany and films all my music videos. I'm very causes and you can really speak to people lucky to have their support! I couldn't be this suc- through music. It's such a great experience rep- Laura Cheadle “gets funky” while assisting cessful without them. resenting a charity and making a difference and children in four African countries by using her getting through to people with your musical tal- music to raise money for food and medicine. What company has signed you? ents. Cheadle, a 24-year-old New Jersey resident, is more than just and up-and-coming musician. She ShareTheMic, which is a music company that Will you be performing anywhere exciting in is an inspiration to many, especially the children hand picks their artists and puts them with a the upcoming future for this benefit? in Africa. charity. It's an incredible organization. In an attempt to make a difference in the Yes! I will be going to Africa and am going on world, Cheadle was recently signed to a New Why did you choose assisting children with a full U.S. tour for this charity. York-based record company called ShareTheMic. AIDS as your main charity? The company pairs musicians with charities. How do you think this will benefit you in the I had the opportunity to interview Cheadle as I remember learning about this charity and long run? not only a journalist, but as a friend. I interviewed learning that these kids won't even live past 2 her via Facebook about her music and charity as- years old without our help. This charity just I think the most important thing is that it bene- sistance. Here is what she had to say: touched me and I wanted to help in any way fits the charity. However, my name as a singer- [that] I could. songwriter is spreading [by] helping this charity, How many CDs have you published? which is amazing. Have you written any songs specifically for I have five CDs out. My first acoustic CD, the AIDS charity? What is your favorite part of being a "Maybe One Day;" my debut full-band album, singer/songwriter? "Falling In," my live album, my Christmas album Yes. My Song "Change (It's Alright)." I just re- and my brand new album "Live On." I am also in leased a music video that features me singing Being able to emotionally connect on many the studio now recording more. this song and clips of African children with AIDS levels through my music and watching my fans and information about this charity. The video also really get into it. What type of music genre do you consider shows you how to donate [to] this cause on my yourself? behalf. I am so excited that this video has already Where exactly is your profit going? had thousands of views and featured on several I consider myself a "funky singer-songwriter." TV and radio stations. I am so happy to be mak- The profit goes to all the children with AIDS in My music has singer-songwriter lyrics with funk, ing a difference. You can check out this video at Africa. Even just $20 will feed them for a month jazz and soul music behind it. www.lauracheadle.com and keep them healthy with a retro viral treatment that they desperately need. When did you start writing your own music? Have you had any personal experiences with adults or children with AIDS? How else do you think Americans can help As early as 5 years old. I remember creating with this tragic issue? harmonies on my little four-track recorder that I Yes. I actually went to school with two kids my begged my parents for Christmas that year. My age that had AIDS, and I saw how they were They can help by going to volunteer in Africa, first song ever written was called "We're in Love." shunned by other students and it broke my heart. sending food, sending donations and sending This is another reason I am passionate about clothing. When did you begin singing professionally? being involved with this charity — to spread awareness. How did you get started with this charity? Age 14, [at which time] I started getting hired to perform at big events. How much money have you raised for these I met the president of this foundation and re- children? ally hit it off with her after being introduced Where do you get your inspiration for your through my record company. music? I do not know the exact number but several hundred dollars so far. Do you have any other comments on being a Love is a huge inspiration to me. I am a very singer/songwriter or on assisting children sensitive soul so I write about love often. Any- Is there a specific place that these children with AIDS? thing can inspire me, though. I just wrote a new are located? song just from being outside observing people. I just am so happy and honored to be able to They are located in Democratic Republic of spread the word and help these children through Are there any people who have greatly as- Congo, Kenya, Uganda and Zimbabwe. You can every stroke of my guitar and every chord of my sisted in your pursuit of a music career? read all about them at http://www.helpchildren- voice. withaids.org Yes! Absolutely! My father is an amazing mu- As a friend and fellow musician, please check sician so he has been my biggest inspiration. He Would you encourage other singer/songwrit- out Laura Cheadleʼs music. She books gigs all has been in the music industry for years, and he ers to raise donations for a charity like this over the New Jersey and Philadelphia area. For owns his own recording studio, where I record. one? Why? more information on Cheadle and her cause, ex- He even packages my CDs. My brother Jimmy plore her Web site at www.lauracheadle.com. Lee performs in my band along with my father. Absolutely! Music proves to be such an in- My other brother Nick owns his own film com- credible source for spreading awareness to The Montgazette, Page 15 Arts & Entertainment

3-D Technology in Film Album Review By Patrick Costello This is substantial news. With this new technology mastered Bring Me The Horizon: Director James Cameron has comes a whole new way to create revolutionized 3-D filmmaking with and view film. In many ways, the ‘Count Your Blessings’ “Avatar.” release of “Avatar” is like the start Cameron, who is known for of a new era in filmmaking. “Terminator 2,” “Aliens,” and the “When watching Avatar in 3-D, it By Aaron Leimbach And, as expected, Bring Me the former highest grossing movie of all does not feel like you are looking at Horizon did not disappoint. time, “Titanic,” developed a master- a picture, but looking into an alter- The band Bring Me the Hori- There is quite a bit of explicit ful piece of technology to film his nate universe where mountains zon consists of Oliver Sykes content on “Suicide Season Cut latest masterpiece. float and blue people ride dragons,” (vocals), Curtis Ward and Lee Up!” so be warned. One of the Malia (guitars), Matt Kean things I like most about this “Avatar” uses the Fusion 3-D according to moviegoer Nick Whit- (bass) and Matt Nicholls album is how it put new spins Camera System that he co-created man. (drums). on the songs. in 2003. There is a downside to the ad- They recently released a Track No. 8, “The Sadness The system fuses together two vancement of 3-D technology, how- new album on April 13 called Never Ends,” was absolutely cameras into one to create depth. ever. “Suicide Season Cut Up!” but phenomenal. The mixing was Films as “The Final Destination” or While “Avatar” may be a good film, the album is actually a revised amazing and the synthesizing “Journey to the Center of the Earth” the way it looks is clearly its most edition of their earlier “Suicide was some of the best Iʼve ever exhibited some of the potential of important attribute. Season,” which was released in heard out of any techno-metal Cameronʼs system. But it wasnʼt The movieʼs success may cause the early spring of 2009. song. And itʻs one of the few until the director released “Avatar” a push in Hollywood for films that Bring Me the Horizon made songs that has absolutely no in December that moviegoers ex- are style over substance, which it big after releasing their first explicit content. perienced 3-D cinematography like would be a negative movement. album, “Count Your Blessings,” Still, I found the original edi- which is on Epitaph Records. tion of “The Sadness Never never before. Though they tend to believe Ends” to be a lot less hardcore that their popularity originates from what Iʼd come to expect from their choice of hair style, from Oliver and the boys. Album Review Bring Me the Horizonʼs “Suicide Another upside about this Season” was an exceptional re-worked CD is that you can album when it was released. easily dance to the tracks. Itʼs Carnifex: Itʼs nothing compared to “Count as close to a perfect party Your Blessings,” but great as album as one could get. Every far as the generalized expecta- time I listen I want to jump up ‘Hell Chose Me’ tions of metal albums go. and stomp. So when I saw this new edi- I highly recommend track By Ryan Teterus tion of 14 previously unre- No. 5, the “After the Night leased tracks, I nearly lost my Remix” of “Football Season is Carnifex brings forth the brutality with their latest album, “Hell mind right there in the mall. Over” for how fun this band can Chose Me.” What I didnʼt realize, though, be at parties. Launched on Feb. 16, this release from the San Diego-based was that these previously unre- The fact that every song is a band delivers a more dark/technical approach to the metal genre. leased tracks are songs off of metal-fusion cover brings a Carnifex, formed back in 2005, is composed of lead vocalist Scott the original “Suicide Season” wicked smile to the faces of my Lewis, guitarist Cory Arford, guitarist Ryan Gudmunds, drummer CD but just re-made into most hardcore friends. I look Shawn Cameron and bassist Fred Calderon. techno mixes. I was bummed forward to what Bring Me the The group released “Hell Chose Me” on Victory Records – a 10 about that fact at first, but I de- Horizon does next when they track album of pure octane metal. cided that I should give it a lis- release their new album in the If you are a fan of Heaven Shall Burn, Emmure, All Shall Perish, ten since I generally enjoy fall. So long as itʼs not a re- Impending Doom or any death core-style band, then check out “Hell techno and I find the combina- mastered “Count Your Bless- Chose Me.” tion of two such polar opposite ings,” I will remain a loyal fan. It will be a great addition to any metal playlist. genres absolutely incredible.

Keep up on whatʼs hot this summer by tuning in to Montco Radio! The Montgazette, Page 16 Campus & Community

Pictured (from top, clockwise): 1) Fashion Club shows off original prints and designs by its own members at their first ever Fashion Show. 2) Joanna Burns entertains students under the tent at Spring Fling with songs from her new CD "music from & in- spired by." 3) Jarelle Martin destroys Brittany Raymond on the Wrecking Ball at Central Campusʼ Spring Fling. 4) The Dance Per- formance Ensemble shows off their “Thriller” skills at the 39th Annual Student Leadership Recognition Banquet.

All photos by Dennis “BE BOP” Verbo, Photography Editor

Have a Great Summer! See You in the Fall!!!