Volume 26, issue 9 Www.broward.edu/observer Feb.7, 2012

News Center spread Sports Back page The legacy of walks for Broward’s North Campus Dr. Green Autism team strives for Comedy show success page 3 page 9 Page 13 PAGE 16

A Broward College Student Publication

Broward College welcomes the waterpowerful, with dragon bursts of excitement and tranquility alike, like a runner’s heartbeat in a fast paced race. Ben Miller, one of the drummers who teaches said, “The drums are to cause a sense of creativity in the hearts of those who listen.” Joining Miller were his two-year-old son, and four others. After the drumming performance, the Shaolin Kung Fu Group started to show off their talents. Accompanied by a steady beat, two performers acted out the Lion’s Dance quite well. The lion’s colorful design had sunlight bouncing off of it in waves. As it danced, the other group members fed the lion leaves of lettuce, which it ate and then spat out. There was also a martial arts presentation; Kung Fu moves were executed with style as well as precision as the group Top Left: Water Dragon performs at South Campus showed off their talent. This troupe was

also diverse in age, ranging from children as Top Right: The Fushu Diako drumming group young as seven to others up to 40. opens up the festival with their song “Footprints of While the crowd enjoyed spring rolls, Chaos” honey chicken, and other treats from a local Chinese food restaurant, students discussed their favorite parts of the presentation. Bottom Left: Asian Zone Networking club shows off their animal paper mache skills Enitan Ashoroi said, “The two year old who was beating his drum along with his Photos by Richard Lawrence dad like he knew what he was doing, and the creepy dragon, it scares me because it blinked so fast but it was intriguing.” A Giannette Rodriguez member of Asian Zone Networking, Yani Staff Writer year’s Chinese Lunar Festival at the Broward including China, Japan and the Koreas, Rivera said, “It was great to set up an idea College South Campus Amphitheater. the Lunar New Year is greeted with families and work to follow through with it.” Welcome to the year of the Water AZN made sure that the entire zodiac was enjoying dinner while watching a fireworks According to Kwang, with the help of the Dragon! Lasting this cycle, until February present in the celebration by way of Origami show, and the Lion’s Dance to the sound of contacts available at Student Life, the event 9, 2013 and outstanding for those born figurines. Made for children of all ages, the drums. took three months to plan, and it will be their in this year, it is believed by many to be group was able to print out the figurines Fushu Diako, a local performing group, biggest event for the semester, although they the luckiest year in the Chinese zodiac. from the Internet, and put all the animals started the festivities. The Diako drummers will also participate in the Taste of Culture. Staying true to tradition, the Asian Zone on display. Dennis Kwang, the president playing “Footprints of Chaos,” allured the The members are proud with the outcome Networking (AZN) club celebrated this of AZN, explains that in asian countries, student body. The resonating sound was and say that it will be a hard event to beat.

StudentNatalie Von Cieminski honoredoutstanding students of inthe English the language enthusiasm,English Neubert reveals how happylanguage she Contributing Writer and literature in undergraduate studies at is to be chosen for an award. “I am definitely two-year institutions. excited because this is the first recognition As fate willed, Supervision and Back in the winter semester of 2009, I’ve ever gotten. It is amazing.” Management Major, Stephanie Neubert can Neubert was looking for an organization in She is not only very thankful for her call herself this year’s Sigma Kappa Delta which her skills, passions, and interests for advisor, Bianchi, who recommended her for (SKD) national recognition winner. SKD the arts could be expressed. She decided to this award, but also for all the other professors is the National English Honor Society at become a member of SKD and told herself, at BC who supported her throughout Broward College‘s (BC) North Campus, that “Let’s give it a shot”. her presidency. Bianchi herself says about shares their love and appreciation for English After being welcomed by very nice Stephanie’s hard work, “Her willingness to literature and language. With hard work, individuals, she found herself quickly in support the English department and its many ambition, and patience, Neubert worked her the middle of this society. As treasurer of goals is what sets her up.” No BC student has way up, step by step, to the top. She became SKD, Neubert worked hard to keep the ever been recognized before. Stephanie is the president and now will be honored with organization running in every way possible. first one to be awarded nationally by SKD. an award that she describes as “a complete Because of her efforts and care about its Neubert is a Supervision and Management Stephanie Neubert surprise.“ success, Neubert was recommended for major, but getting her degree isn’t her only Neubert will accept the award at the annual the position of president by Prof. Ariana goal. As President of SKD, her main goal is and make such wonderful experiences as she SKD international convention, taking place Bianchi, North Campus advisor of SKD, to get a chapter started at each BC campus. has. Feb. 29 through Mar. 4 in New Orleans. and she gladly accepted the position after “I see myself still doing what I love doing, For students who wish to step into For her achievements and participation in receiving most of the votes. From this and keep supporting the organization for as Neubert‘s shoes one day she recommends, the activities of SKD, she will be honored moment forward, Neubert has helped in the long as I can,“ said Neubert. By introducing “Have patience, mostly love what you in front of 1000 English majors and English community. She is involved with fundraising the organization to the students on each do. Love being around people, love enthusiasts who represent colleges across the and does everything to keep the organization campus, she wants to propel those who are getting involved, and have fun.“ For more world. The SKD international convention fun and interesting. interested in writing contests, the English information contact Prof. Bianchi at (954) is an annual event that is focused on But this is just the beginning. Filled with language and literature, to become members 201-2380, or [email protected].

Feb.7, 2012 Features page 3 Peer mentoring teaches academic success Catherine de Lafontaine of the issues that mentors help Contributing Writer mentees tackle. Some students who register for this program are Being successful in school simultaneously enrolled in two requires time, dedication, and college prep classes, some are determination. These skills should taking only one, and some simply already be instilled in the students’ find themselves involved in hopes psyches. But as luck would have of changing bad habits. it, these abilities somehow vanish Mentors are chosen based when the new term begins. This on personality, flexibility, and is one of the many reasons why a experience. In order to become gem of a program known as Peer one, a student must have a GPA Mentoring was implemented at of at least 2.75 and have 12 credits Broward College in 2011. Since under his or her belt. Mentors its inception, Alicia Smith-Wroble become role models to mentees, and Melanie Gilson from Student have developed study skills to share, Success at Broward College’s and are able to follow through on North Campus have watched both tasks at hand. mentees and mentors blossom from According to Gisella Segarra, their experiences in the program. lead mentor for the program, the To begin, the program provides experience is life-changing for both a positive support system to parties. Segarra’s experience taught mentees by offering guidance. her that lasting friendships can Mentors and mentees collaborate be formed, and that students can throughout the term to facilitate Photo Courtesy of student life achieve whatever they wish so long Students involved in mentoring program the student’s success. These newly as they believe they can succeed. formed relationships help mentees For at least half of her career, she sense of community, helping them has to offer, and this program helps One of Segarra’s wishes for the develop stronger self-esteem while worked with 18 to 22 year olds, with future employability skills.” adults by making this transition a program is for “Mentors to pass the they learn to balance studies and understands the psychology The Peer Mentoring Program little easier. torch to the mentees so [that] they around life’s obstacles. Also, behind helping young adults pulls people together, working In order to become a mentee, can become mentors.” mentees develop a stronger sense succeed. Gilson explains that towards the common goal of a student must be willing to learn If the Peer Mentoring Program of community at school, and there is peace in knowing that you academic success. Please note new behaviors that will help them interests you, either as a mentor oftentimes become involved in its are not in this alone. She says, this program is not simply for overcome adversity. Those with or as a mentee, and you would social clubs. “In a program like this, the skills first time college students, it was a lack of support at home must like further information about As a therapist for over ten years, students learn transfer over to other implemented to also help those find creative solutions for study becoming involved, Segarra can be Gilson’s experience makes her a relationships and settings. This returning to school. It is impossible spaces and must learn to avoid reached by email at segargm@mail. natural fit to run the program. helps them socially by providing a to know all the things the college procrastination. These are some broward.edu.

NorthAlicia Rubio preserves Green’s legacy contributing writer Florida wildflower gardens were planted primarily to sustain the landscaping by planting gardens In commemoration of Dr. that did not require chemicals for Peggy Green, Broward College’s maintenance. Native plants were North Campus held a ceremony used for the gardens because they on Jan. 24 dedicating the do not require much maintenance. Sustainability Institute to her. Therefore Broward College has Faculty, administration, and the saved a significant amount of student body all believe that Dr. money in results to greening Green was an exceptional leader, the campus. The sustainability a strong advocate, and a valuable committee of North Campus, friend to the environment. The founded by Dr. Green, has Broward College board of trustees estimated more than $20 million approved the Sustainability of savings by reducing energy and Institute of North Campus in the water consumption. Therefore, beginning of 2011, and by Feb. her legacy continues through the 28 the institute has been up and sustainability committee and the running after being named after sustainability club that was recently her, the Dr. Peggy Green Institute. formed in remembrance of her She passed away a year ago, remarkable work as a sustainability yet the campus can still feel motivator. her essence, her humane and Several of her former students environmental values from the attended the naming ceremony, footprints she left behind, such even students who did not meet her Photo courtesy of student life Dr.Barbara Bryan(left) and Dr. Marie Dugan (right) as her Florida wildflower gardens, in person. Nancy Aguirre, a liberal rain barrels irrigation system, rain arts major, said, “I was moved with garden, vegetable garden, and the speech that Dr. Bryan gave, it and about her outgoing personality reciprocated with the student my eyes. The letter read from the butterfly garden. Her enthusiasm sounds to me like Dr. Green was that easily captivated student’s that wrote that essay. The student student really touched me, I felt as reached many hearts, including very loved and appreciated by attention on environmental felt like Dr. Green influenced the if I was one of Dr. Peggy Green’s North Campus President Dr. many people for what she did for awareness. She read an essay that course of their lives. students.” Barbara Bryan. the school and the environment. one of Dr. Green’s students wrote Another student who attended The Dr. Peggy Green Institute Green’s work as an educator Professor Dugan’s speech made me back when they were taking her the ceremony, Eliza Oliveira, will provide faculty and students and leader consisted of working feel like I knew her.” class. The essay composed deep elementary education major, with learning resources, and on gardening projects with the Marie Dugan, Biology thoughts about Dr. Green’s ability shared her thoughts about the sustainable practices which will help of her students, to teach professor, spoke about Dr. Green’s to grasp motivation through her ceremony. “I felt very emotional enhance sustainability awareness them about sustainability. The accomplishments in sustainability own students and how that feeling at the ceremony, with tears in across campus. “As a student of Broward College, how do you define Student Success?” Please email your responses to [email protected], with “Student Success” as the subject. page 4 NEWS Feb 7, 2012

RogihanneAimee AvinS Nezhukumathatil visits South Campus Staff Writer

Broward College always brings a slew of interesting people to the campuses for students to listen to, and the latest individual they brought was the acclaimed poet, writer, and teacher Aimee Nezhukumatathil. Nezhukumatathil is an Asian American poet known for her good-humored and exotic materials. She gives her audience a different perspective on everyday situations. “Miracle Fruit,” her first collection, won her the 2003 Tupelo Press prize. “Lucky Fish, At the Drive-In Volcano” won her yet another award in 2007, the Balcones Poetry prize. In 2009, Nezhukumatathil was awarded the National Endowment for the Arts Literature Fellowship in poetry, an award Poet Aimee Nezhukumatathil signs that she has been waiting for. “It did not (right) Students wait in line for her book during a campus visit. their signed books. change my writing… I was just grateful, it Photos courtesy of Student Life was nice to get monetary validation,” laughed Nezhukumatathil after being asked about if winning the 2009 National Endowment by Dr. Hank Martel, Dean of Academic Nezhukumatathil and her work. the planet we live in come alive again…” said award changed her writing. She got it on the Affairs, we were able to plan out the year,” Nezhukumatathil was an honor student Nezhukumatathil. eve of President Obama’s inauguration. said Nightingale. “Each campus hosts some who later became a teacher. “I can’t ever get Her plans for the future include a She traveled across the country to UC sort of literary event; ours just happens to be over a love of learning,” she said. collection of nature essays that focus on the Berkley, Kentucky, Newark, New York year long.” She teaches at SUNY-Fredonia in Buffalo, environment. University (NYU) and had a reading in The students at Broward College attended New York. She teaches environmental However, she won’t be attending this Amsterdam. “I love doing readings,” she said. the event on Jan. 19 at the Performing literature. She was inspired to write poetry year’s Kundiman’s retreat, a boot camp for Nezhukumatathil was invited by the Center of the Arts Theater (PCAT). by her love of the musicality of words, certain Asian American poets. “No not this year… literary committee, which was founded a Sobourney Barnes, a pre- physical images that connect to the five senses. hopefully the next.” year ago so the campus could coordinate therapy major, attended the event to hear In the world of poets, poetry has a As for future writers and poets, she had all the literary events that both the English Nezhukumatathil. different meaning. “Hmm… poetry is saying this to say: “Keep going. You can learn so department and the Hannah Kahn “Poetry in my opinion is a medium to get things in the most skilled words, in the most much about your own writing by reading Poetry Foundation, of which Dr. Barbara your feelings across,” she commented. beautiful way possible. To make the world, other peoples’ work and be a good person.” Nightingale is president, organize. Marci Calabreta, poetry major at BC, “By forming the committee, requested came because she was already familiar with BC kicks off fundraiser Michelle Castano their revenue to the cause,” said aviation student, David Staff Writer Castro. Jan. 25 was the kickoff date for the United Way On Wednesday, Jan. 25, Broward College students fundraising events. According to Senior Executive and friends took off with United Way at the Aviation Assistant to the South Campus President, Sandra Gans, Institute in South Campus (building 99). United Way United Way started the fundraising campaign in January, was celebrating its kickoff fundraising event, with the and it will run its course in April. Each month, BC is help of Broward College. expecting to hold a fundraising event for United Way. Raffle tickets were being sold, with costs ranging “Broward College in general, campus wide supports from $2 to $10; with the purchase of a raffle ticket, United Way,” said Gans. a BBQ meal was included, and you were able to Through this involvement United Way will hopefully participate in a paper airplane flying contest. The get the students to see how important it is to collaborate participating member who flew the paper airplane with groups and clubs and in participating organizations with the longest distance won a bottle of Merlot red in order to make a difference. wine. The Aviation Institute was also raffling away Ria Hutton, who coordinated the paper airplane coveted prizes, which included a flight simulator contest, stated that students shouldn’t just go to school experience and a “discovery flight” on a Cessna 172. and get a degree, but to also be a humanitarian and think United Way is an organization that helps fund about the best interests of their counterparts as well, and approximately 57 agencies, which include Kids in to create a community experience in Broward College. Distress, YMCA, and the Salvation Army, among “Usually when you hear about these campaigns, others. Development Officer for the United Way, people don’t hear about it really touching close to home, Celeste Abell, stressed that donations do make a people don’t assume that any of your partners or cohorts difference, and that United Way focuses on three on campus or even colleagues would have benefitted from distinct areas: education, health, and impact. the United Way. It’s a great way to encourage enrollment, “It’s not a coincidence that we put education first encourage our students to continue their education, to because we feel that if you’re able to provide these show them that there are so many organizations out building blocks for an individual, they are most likely there that are working towards making sure that students to be successful in their life,” said Abell. get their education,” said Hutton. In 2011, a survey was conducted in which this organization realized that they had touched one in six lives in Broward County; in fact, this estimate is about 300,000 people. Giving back to the community is crucial and when one realizes how much of an impact an individual can make on another’s life, it’s inspiring. “It’s great that the Aviation Photo by Daniel gaviria Institute is giving out Dr.S.Sean Madison(right) page 5 Feb. 7,2012 Campus News page 6 Theater program at BC offers scholarships Kyle Rambo actor Saer Karim, who he describes There will be 13 different areas Moriyon said, “I’m confident in Festival gives Broward College Managing Editor as “my little brother,” even though competing in Region 4, ranging myself, and my partner. We are a respectable presence in the Karim was quick to point out that from North Carolina and Alabama going to go as far as we’re supposed college/university community,” “I now feel submerged in the he is two years older than Moriyon. to Puerto Rico and the Virgin to go.” said Kondelik.” This is a great theatre family here at Broward Karim describes their relationship Islands. Even with the wide variety Win or lose, “the student opportunity for the selected actors College,” said Allyn Moriyon, as “being really good friends.” of competitors, Broward College’s participation at the Kennedy at Broward College and may be the theatre major and actor in the Karim and Moriyon were both part actors feel they have a shot as Center American College Theatre start of some great acting careers. Broward College play “Theof “The Imaginary Invalid” cast at Imaginary Invalid.” Moriyon has a Broward College last fall. bright future ahead of him, as he “I’m glad I can just be a part of and three other theatre students this competition, even with all the were nominated to compete for hard work involved such as “being the Irene Ryan Scholarship in the on the phone with each other every Kennedy Center American College single night,” said Karim. The Theatre Festival. This scholarship other pairings will be Cruz paired is awarded to the nation’s finest with Aly Pentangelo, Diaz paired student actors. with Courtney Omar Boyne, Broward’s nominated actors and Wieseman partnered with will compete in the Region 4 Jonathan Adam. The scholarship competition at Daytona State can only be awarded to the actor College, from Jan. 31 to Feb. 4. who was nominated, not their With an impressive performance in partner. the Regional Festival, a student can Moriyon and Cruz were in “The advance to the National Festival in Imaginary Invalid” while Diaz Washington D.C. this April. and Wieseman starred in another Once selected to compete, Broward College play, “Regrets an actor must choose a partner Only.” Broward Theatre professor who will participate in two scenes Deborah Kondelik has worked along with him. The scenes must closely with all the competing be contrasting (for example, actors and said, “what could be performing a comedy scene and better than being able to work with then a dramatic scene). The actor eight dedicated theatre students will then finish by performing a who are willing to put in the time monologue or solo musical number and effort to do their personal for a maximum of six minutes. best?” Along with Moriyon, the “The competition at the students from Broward selected to Regional Festival will be fierce, compete are Kristi Cruz, Luis Diaz but I have every confidence in and Sheri Wieseman. Each had them that they will make Broward to choose a partner, and Moriyon College proud of them,” said decided to do his scenes with fellow Kondelik. a touch down for autism

By Clayton Gutzmore Editor in Chief The measure of a great athlete is not just the amount of championships they earn, or the amount of times they appear on a highlight reel, but how they conduct themselves outside of the game and what they do for the com- munity around them. Hall of Fame Dolphins Dan Marino is an extraordinary athlete who fits these criteria, and an example of this is his effort toward raising money for autism research through his annual fund- raiser event: Dan Marino Foundation Walkabout Autism. “I always helped in developmental disorder areas by raising money, and it’s about helping as many families and children as possible, to give them the same chance my son Mike had years ago,” said Marino. Autism is a developmental disorder that appears in the first three years of life, and it affects the brain’s nor- mal development of social and communication skills. According to the Center for Disease Control, Autism is the fastest growing developmental disorder in the nation, and 1 in 110 children in the USA have Autism. Mike Marino was diagnosed with autism at a very young age, but as he grew into a young adult, he slowly began to overcome the disorder and he became an inspiration to his father and all his fans. Marino chose a walk to raise funds because it was something that everyone can participate in at a single place. He also invited alumni and current NFL stars like Dolphins offensive lineman Jake Long, kicker Dan Carpenter, and punter Brandon Fields to come out and support the cause. This is the second year of the annual event, which took place at Sun Life on Jan. 28. All the proceeds went back to the community, and benefit Autism services and awareness. “Last year we raised about $300,000, and this year seems like this is it, since we are up to a half a million,” said Marino. The Dan Marino Foundation (DMF) is a 501c organization that was founded in 1992 by Marino and his wife Claire. The couple was motivated to create this organization because of the experiences they had while raising Mike. The day was full of fun events. Before the attendants were let into the stadium, there was a rally outside with food and live music with a performance by R&B Hip-hop artist Casely. “There are so many things that are in this world that is out of our control and autism is one of them. I think the more we bring awareness of autism, the more we can help the people who are directly affected by it,” said Case- ly. After the pep rally was the ribbon cutting ceremony that was done by Marino and Dolphins General Manager, Jeff Ireland. This signaled the walk of the estimated 14,000 attendants to the stadium. Inside the stadium, attendants were introduced to a marketplace of food and games for the children on the field. Towards the endzone was a stage where Marino and other members of the DMF were honored by officials of Miami Dade and Broward counties. “I am here to support the expansion of education programs and to support Dan Marino in his efforts to bring education equality to all kids,” said Alberto Carvalho, superintendant of Miami Dade public schools. Towards the end of the event, Marino and the Art Institute of Ft. Lauderdale raffled off a pair of size 13, special edition Converse sneakers to an attendant of the event. Overall, Marino created another reason why South Flori- da loves and respects him. According to the Sun Sentinel, the Walkabout Autism raised about $700,000. Not only did DMF surpass their expectations, they also displayed what the power of human compassion can really do.

dESIGN BY RODRIGO PARDO Feb. 7, 2012 Features page 10 ING Marathon/half marathon runs again Joshua Mattocks breaths after the first mile. Every Staff Writer runner will tell you the key is pace. Find your own speed and stay with It is said that Pheidippides, it the entire race. 2011 marathon a young Greek messenger and finisher Sephra Leger gave a few soldier, was sent from Marathon words of encouragement saying, to Athens to announce the victory “Remember that the wall is in your of the Grecians over the Persians in head, keep pushing on, but not to the Battle of Marathon. the point of injury.” It is also said that he ran the She also continues by simply entire distance without stopping saying to have fun. This may and burst into the assembly, be a serious event, but it is also exclaiming,“We have won!” something I should and was able before collapsing and dying from to enjoy. exhaustion. More words of encouragement Although the historical accuracy from Leger was to ice myself once I of the action is debatable, the 26 was finished, which may seem a bit miles allegedly ran by Pheidippides jovial at first, but the statement has has been done since the 19th meaning once the race is complete. century. Before the final step was taken, The idea of organizing a every ounce of my body was marathon race came from Michel ING Marathon Miami 2012 Photo courtesy of PSO-Wolrd.com aching. Muscles I hadn’t worked Bréal, who wished for the event to out for a few days were on fire and feature in the first modern Olympic in attracting world-class distance I found myself heavily-stressed I trained for the marathon movement was difficult. Taking a Games in 1896 in Athens. runners. The most recent one was if I didn’t run at least 3 miles a for months by doing stretching good rest after the race was very One of the most well-known Sunday, Jan. 29, 2012. day, considering the fact that I exercises, watching what I ate (yeah well appreciated and deserved. marathons done across the world, Preparing for a marathon is waited until the last minute to right), and simply running a few Did I enjoy this very gratifying and also the one marathon I chose crucial not only to your physical begin training. Not training for miles every day to keep the body experience? Certainly. Will I be to participate in, would be the ING health, but to your very survival. a marathon can result in many aware of what is to come. Building doing this again in the following Marathon/Half Marathon done in A marathon is not something one casualties. In the recent marathon, my stamina was vital. year? Probably not. A marathon South Florida. The ING Miami can simply enter without training there were at least 5 people on Many people enter the is no simple task, but is definitely Marathon and Half Marathon has or intense exercise. If a participant stretchers who were unable to marathon with the hopes of something for those of all ages and been one of the fastest-growing does not train well for the event, complete their race and cross the blazing past everyone else, only sizes to enjoy. annual marathons and is successful there are possibilities of fatalities. finish line. to find themselves catching their

VanessaThe Elie Game begins a new season on BET Contributing Writer a teased rookie, he is now San Diego’s hometown hero, bringing around Jason must deal with a down the path of no return? Malik, since The Game’s season premiere, Twitter, Facebook and Tumblr. them countless championships and crucial decision that he made on fresh out of rehab, is in a dangerous and according to the web site T.V. Every week these social networks packing the stadiums to maximum a drunken night. He eloped with relationship with a heroin addicted by the numbers, The Game earned are buzzing about the upcoming capacity every game. Chardonay, a young lady he met in supermodel. a total of 5.3 million viewers, Tuesday night. What’s all the hype Endorsements, commercials, a bar. Pitts also encounters another Despite the fact that no one making It cable’s #1 scripted series about, you ask? The Game, which and nationally published photo milestone: his teenage daughter is agrees with his relationship, he is telecast among 18-49 year olds this made its big return on Jan. 10, shoots, he is doing it all. As always now seriously dating. following his heart and is doing season. 2012. for Derwin, with fame comes Last but not least, the mother- what he believes is in his best The Game is a versatile show Why are viewers everywhere drama. He’s still attempting to son duo, Tasha and Malik Wright. interest. that anyone and everyone can obsessed with the fictional San manage his son with ex-girlfriend Tasha has a dilemma. Should she In addition, we have Tasha’s son relate to. It has a little something Diego Sabers, their women and Janay, and dealing with his follow the money and represent by affiliation, Malik’s childhood for everybody. This show is sure to all the chaos that follows their turbulent marriage with Melanie. Derwin, who is the hottest thing friend, T.T., whose mere sarcasm live up to its notoriety and fulfill everyday lives? It’s entertaining and Melanie Barnett-Davis is faced on the market now, or should she adds a certain “je ne sais quoi” to people’s weekly desire for drama takes some individuals away from with new challenges as well. After keep her loyalties in the family and the atmosphere of the show. behind the television screen. the pressures of their own day-to- giving up her dream of becoming represent her son, who is headed There have been 5 episodes day activities. a doctor and terminating her Not too many 21st century friendship with Tasha, she now sitcoms make it past three seasons, manages Derwin’s career. but The Game, on the other hand, While it seems that she has is not so typical and made it to it all, the fact that she has no life season five. Once cancelled, fans outside of Derwin and is friendless everywhere petitioned and were constantly leaves her feeling empty. able to bring their show back to This season we discovered new life. Some might find this show to skeletons in Melanie’s closet, and be inspirational and to others, it’s can’t help but wonder what else she just a good laugh. may be hiding. In the beginning of the season, We can’t forget about the we see quarterback Derwin Davis cocky, always frugal, former Saber, at the prime of his career. Once divorcee Jason Pitts. This time

Cast of The Game Photo courtesy of thesmugger.com Feb. 6, 2012 Entertainment page 11 Tinker Tailor not your average spy movie

Olivier Solon contibuting writer

Most imagine secret agents, such as James Bond, as dressed to kill, attempting assassinations, fleeing from the scene in an explosive exit, grossing box office sales all over the country. “Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy” is probably a more realistic interpretation of government espionage than the typical shoot-em-up-bang flicks a person might be used to. Set in the early 70’s during the height of the Cold War, this movie has a slow-paced, intricate plot filled with betrayal, deceit and suspicion, all brought about when secret intelligence reveals that there is possibly a Russian spy amongst the upper levels of the MI6 service. It may be difficult to keep up with the events as they unfold because of the length between significant occurrences, especially with various flashback scenes providing critical clues, but if you are able to pay attention to the subtle expressions and indirect dialogue, then you might just find the story intriguing. Of course, the large number of characters doesn’t make it much easier to follow. photo courtesy of focusfeatures.com The movie’s main character, played Scene from Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy by Academy award winning actor Gary Oldman, is named George Smiley. This Right One In.” “Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy” the beginning. Unless you’re into deliberate, fact, the only time your jaw will drop is when is ironic, because he barely smiles at all. is based on the John Le Carres novel of the mind compelling scripts, there really isn’t you’re yawning. All in all, it’s a very complex, Supposedly a legend in his field, he is same name; Alfredson recreates the tense anything thrilling about this movie. No yet creative rendition of early espionage, but brought out of retirement in hopes that mood by gradually unraveling the elaborate dazzling effects or jaw-dropping stunts. In don’t recommend it to anybody you know. he will expose this mole at the top of the plot in each flashback. The tempo of the “circus.” There are very few people he can movie can cause it to be tedious and tiring, trust as he uncovers motives in a series of accompanied by a rather drab and dreary lengthy conversations and vivid story telling. sound score that may or may not finish the The spiral of trickery, shrouded in mystery, job of knocking you out. adds the effect of suspense. Oldman does a In one scene, a spy gets shot as he tries fantastic job keeping his composure with a to run away from a botched operation. stone-cold poker face as he interrogates his The commercial trailer cleverly splits this way to the culprit. into two parts to bring a bit of “action” to The film was directed by Swedish film your attention and draw you into seeing director Thomas Alfredson, who also the movie, but in reality that is the only brought you the romantic horror “Let the excitement in the entire film. And it is in Red Tails on the rise Daniel Gavira nothing less could have been expected from Contributing Writer LucasFilms ltd, the company responsible for the spectacular effects of the Star Wars Saga. Their involvement is probably the Red Tails, a film directed by Anthony reason why the aerial fighting scenes looked Hemingway, describes the story of one of extremely realistic. As with any movie that the most widely recognized fighter pilots of tries to portray historical events, it is hard to World War II: The Tuskegee Airmen. In his tell if they followed what really happened to film, he centers the whole plot on the lives of the letter. But the props used in the movie, 6 characters, as they struggle through World such as the P-51D Mustangs, ME 109 and War II and the racial injustice of the period. ME 262 jet fighters, as well as the setting and The story begins to maneuvers that take off when Terrence were performed Howard, as Colonel A.J. by the airplanes, Bullard, manages to get a accurately matched mission for the Tuskegee many World War airmen, which could make II documentaries. or break their dreams It was a testament of doing more than just to the producers’ garbage missions 1000 efforts, as they miles outside of the war. tried to make the The mission takes place film as authentic as around the issue of a B-17 possible. bomber that suffered heavy In closing, this photo courtesy of wallpaers.oneindia.in losses during the bombing film joins the ranks of Berlin. The Tuskegee airmen take up the of elite, standing among Pearl Harbor and challenge of escorting and bringing these Saving Private Ryan. It was a tribute to war B-17 pilots back to their wives, children, and heroes, men who fought bravely for their families back home. country. It invoked a feeling of admiration, The main cast is composed of: Terrence a respect for what the airmen went through. Howard as Colonel A.J. Bullard, Cuba There was also a strong sense of patriotism, Gooding Jr., as Major Emmanuel Stance, as this line attests, “From the last plane, to Nate Parker as Marty “Easy” Julian, David the last bullet, to the last minute, to the last Oyelano as Joe “Lightning” Little, NE-YO man, we fight!” In all, Red Tails, a PG-13 as Andrew “Smockey” Salem, and Elijah movie, out in theaters now, is a great film Kelley as Samuel “Joker” George. for those who like war films and airplane As for the special Effects of the film, enthusiasts.

Feb 7, 2012 sports page 13

Will men’s basketball have a post season? Gustavo Anaya Sports Editor

The Broward College Men’s basketball team finished up a two-game home stand against their Southern Conference rivals before traveling to face Indian River State College. They lost all three games. The Seahawks lost to Palm Beach State 72-47 on Monday, with Forward Leif Rodney leading all scorers and posting a double-double with 13 points and 10 rebounds. Juan Ferrales posted 12 points and 4 assists. Against Brevard College last Wednesday, the final score was 76-68, and then finally against Indian River State, it was 81-60. It’s the second out of three meetings with South Conference rivals. The game against Brevard College soon turned into a dunk-fest, as players from both squads began dunking the ball early on in the game to try and get the momentum on their side, but Brevard soon proved to be the better coordinated team. Forward Leif Rodney lines up a freethrow during a game. “It’s frustrating,” said Bob Starkman. The Seahawks obviously have not been playing their best basketball.

The team has not been able to put up Photos by Constanza Gallardo points in the paint, nor grab rebounds. The men’s basketball team lost three games in a row to teams They also have a bad defense, allowing their all ranked in the FCSAA Coaches’ Poll’s Top 10. opponents to nearly out-rebound them in every game. The Seahawks have a lot of work to do. River State College ranked 3rd. They do have the 6th leading scorer in the remaining number of their games, so they Their conference record is 1-5, and with that A key to winning the game, according nation in Forward Craig Brown, averaging could at least land a spot as maybe 2nd place record, it’s highly unlikely the Seahawks will to Coach Starkman, is having that “killer 21.6 points per game. But it’s not all about in the conference. be involved in any type of post season. instinct,” which unfortunately the Seahawks one player; the team has to act as a whole in With only three home games remaining All three of the teams that recently played don’t have right now. “You got to have the order to win basketball games. for the season, the Seahawks should be against Broward College are ranked in the heart of lions to win games, not the heart of For Broward College to have a chance wondering right now how their season will FCSAA Coaches’ Poll’s Top 10, with Indian an iguana.” for postseason play, they must win the be coming down to a close. page 14 Opinion feb. 7. 2012 The Manning brothers: Paterno remembered: which is the better player? loss of a football legacy

Heather Perry recent scandal. For his last 4 months, Paterno Contributing Writer not only had to deal with lung cancer, but the constant questions about why he didn’t speak up, or why didn’t he stand up for what When one mentions Penn State, it’s hard was right, when apparently he knew about not to think of Joe Paterno. He was the the scandal the whole time. Though he knew head coach of the Penn State Nittany Lions about the scandal, there is no hard evidence football team for 46 years. that he never did tell anyone. Joe Paterno (JoePa), lead Penn State Paterno released a statement that he did

courtesy of vndystar.com to 400 victories, breaking a record. JoePa report the incident to college administrators (left) (right) coached five undefeated teams that wonwhen he caught word of what was going on. major bowl games. As a coach, Paterno was The athletic director Timothy Curley, and Stephon Hall Eli Manning has a long way to go if he inducted into the Hall of senior vice president, Gary Schultz, were Contributing Writer wants to achieve the goals attained by his Fame in 2007. charged for failing to report the crime, so venerable brother. Yes, I know Peyton has JoePa was at Penn State for 61 years, whos fault was it? We had another Giants/New England only two road playoff wins to his brother’s and became a very important figure to the It was theirs, not Paternos. He was match-up for the this year. This, six. And, yes, his brother has a better playoff college community. shocked when Sandusky was found guilty, in turn, sparks one of the more inexhaustible percentage than he does. Eli has reached the At 85 years old, Paterno was fired, due he couldn’t believe that someone he thought debate topics in NFL history: is Eli Manning prime of his career, as his older brother’s to a scandel where his assistant coach, Jerry he knew was capable of hurting these young better than his older brother, Peyton? You winds down due to a nagging injury that has Sandusky, commited a sex crime. Penn State adults. could make a case that Eli is among the elite persisted after his Super Bowl loss in 2010. changed completely after Paterno left. After Paterno was never charged for the in the NFL today, given that he But for me, there’s not enough to move all they lost a very important aspect of their allegations. Not being charged, there was had a career season in 2011 and has gone to him above his older brother’s status as the football team. obviously not enough evidence, so could the Super Bowl twice now. But just because better player, not yet. If Eli can supplant his Shortly after being fired,Paternos’ son, it be that he did speak up, but the actual someone has more awards than someone dominance for a few more years, we’ll see Scott Paterno publically released that his college just shook it off, and pretended that else, doesn’t make them better than that where my opinion lies. But, for now, he has father was diagnosed with lung cancer in nothing happened. Penn state is a well- someone. It’s like saying Trent Dilfer is better a while to go. November 2011. known school, but having bad press like that than, say, Dan Marino, even though he had When their careers are serenaded in On January 13, 2012, Paterno was sent would have ruined their reputation. They a better run than Trent did, he just doesn’t Canton, Ohio, their achievements will be to the hospital due to complications with hoped that no one would ever speak up, and have a championship to sell an otherwise celebrated and scrutinized by the media his cancer treatment. As his condition got it would just go away. exceptional career. and fans alike to determine the better worse, his family members were sent to say JoePa shouldn’t be remembered for the Peyton Manning, before his numerous brother. Peyton Manning changed the their final good-bye. scandal, that still rises questions, but for neck surgeries sidelined him for the 2011 way we watched quarterbacking, and his Unfortunatly, a tweet spreaded through the legacy he left as a college football coach. season, could’ve been on pace for more contemporaries can’t help but take notice the twitter world announcing JoePas’ death Donating over $4 million to Penn State, and record breaking statistics. He’s been to eleven of his unconventional way of picking apart Saturday, when in reality he was still alive. dedicating basically his whole life to football, Pro Bowls, been a first-team All-Pro five defenders, changing plays at the line of Due to poor research, many editors had to he is a legend. Though JoePa, lost the fight times, and won the Associated Press MVP scrimmage, and his numerous come back send out apologies for the false statement. to lung cancer, he will always be a winner four times. He’s also the fastest to reach down huge deficits. He’s one of the best QBs At 9:25 a.m. on Sunday January 22,2012, in the Penn State community. With all the 50,000 yards, as well as completing 4,000 of all-time, and no one can take that honor Paterno’s family released a statement to the contributions Paterno and his family gave to completions in quick succession. Peyton’s away from him. Essentially, he’s already won media that Joe Paterno passed away. Penn State, he will be a legacy, and everyone stats are so huge, they should have a book in and there’s nothing his younger brother can The question still remains however; will in the future will remember his name as a their honor. do about it. Paterno be remembered for his legacy or the Hall of Fame college football coach. page 15 opinion feb. 7, 2012

The Valentine’s Day guide to avoid a lonely heart Kyle Rambo Managing Editor someone else who is also lonely (I mean single) is the best route to take. This can With Feb. 14 creeping up, you don’ t definitely be achieved, but with the big want your Facebook status declaring you day arriving soon it will be hard to find “single.” Don’t panic. Even when it feels someone who is normal. If you’re trying to like everywhere you turn love is in the air, meet someone and hit it off with them for just take a deep breath and relax. This will Valentine’s Day, the best way to do this is be extremely difficult to do, especially when to make it known when talking to people every other commercial on T.V. is a man that you’re single. There is (I’m guessing) a confessing his Spanish soap opera level high failure rate in finding someone funny love. All of Walgreens is filled with Justin and gorgeous last minute for Valentines’ Day Beiber Valentines’ Day cards and gleefully (unless you are actually as beautiful as you dancing hearts. Your best friend is getting think you are). But if you are not looking for a little more than annoying when referring anything serious, then I suggest Craigslist. to his girlfriend through that unhealthy If all else fails then there is always the overused pet name (it’s beyond me why depressing back-up plan of meeting up and would anyone wants to call their significant doing something with your romantically other Pookypoo). Thankfully, with the right challenged friends. Sure, the night will guidance and a little luck you can find a last photo courtesy of blogspot.com probably end with everyone pretending this minute date for Valentine’s Day, and not An interested guy offering flowers. was their ideal night, as they fake smiles and look like a fool doing it. laughs while a sad John Mayer song plays in Before going into this venture, the first cannot really hurt you in finding future ones. almost sure way to fill the seat across from the background. But maybe this day could thing that needs to be done is to erase the One of the easiest tactics is to just give you at Olive Garden on Valentines’ night. end differently. Maybe you and a close friend not so distant past of how you got into this into that friend who is always texting and There is a huge downside as it is hard to finally realize that you two might as well just predicament. Whether it was the love of calling you to hangout. It isn’t that you totally then stray from this person, and you could give it a shot. Isn’t that really all we want, your life cheating on you with your mom, despise them; it’s just that you dislike them eventually be questioning what in the world someone we can kiss and also call our best your spouse going to prison, or a 2,000 mile enough where every time they want to hang you got yourself into as you are looking into friend? So I hope you find that person this restraining order being filed against you by out, you conveniently have a biology test to their eyes on one knee. Valentines’ Day, and when you look in their your ex-girlfriend, it all needs to be forgotten. study for, or have to visit your grandmother If you cannot stand the pushy hangout eyes I hope you think of me. Or don’t, that’s Just remember that failed relationships in the hospital. Going to this person is an stalker in your life, than maybe finding a little creepy.

SOPA & PIPA: Ending Piracy or Civil Liberties? Ashley Spencer contibuting writer property market from foreign websites and that these bills are necessary to improve the enforcement of present copyright laws. The Internet. It’s a place of endless Opponents of the bills are worried that resources, the ultimate form of freedom of the proposed legislation threatens free speech expression. Websites like Facebook, Twitter and innovation. They feel that the protections and Tumblr allow us to post pretty much provided by the Digital Millennium whatever we want online. Then we have Copyright Act would by bypassed by SOPA. websites like Google and Wikipedia that Since the introduction of the SOPA and open the doors to information about almost PIPA in 2011, large communities have joined everything. Could you imagine how different together in protest of these outrageous acts. your life would be without the privileges the On Jan. 18, 2012, there was an enormous Internet provides to us? Well you may have protest that included blackouts across the to. web from sites like Wikipedia, Reddit, and The U.S. government has introduced about 7,000 other sites. two bills that may potentially take away Google and many other websites asked our endless resources to free knowledge and their users to sign petitions and contact their freedom of expression on the internet. representatives in protest against the bills. The Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA) is Although these acts would potentially put a bill that would expand the ability of U.S. an end to piracy and other disadvantages of law enforcement to fight online trafficking the openness of the Internet, they should of copyrighted, intellectual property and not put our civil liberties in jeopardy. Many counterfeit goods. students feel that the way they express accessible by Internet will no longer be continue to contact their representatives in The Preventing Real Online Threats themselves will be limited, watched, or available for my and everyone’s convenience.” protest of these bills. to Economic Creativity and Theft of completely controlled by the government. Google and Firefox sent updates to the Like Sharein said, the Constitution Intellectual Property Act (PROTECT One BC student, Sharein Wilson, is very people who protested against the acts. They clearly states that we have civil liberties that IP) is a proposed law that, much like the concerned about how she will be affected by announced that about 13 million Americans provide us with freedom of speech. “I signed SOPA, will give the US government and and PIPA, if either ever eventually becomes stood up to protect online freedom and petitions on the blog I use and I contacted copyright holders additional tools to protect law. innovation. The large protests even sparked my state rep through that same blog,” Wilson copyrighted intellectual property and seize “I will no longer be able to practice my Congress to delay voting on the bill, which added. No matter what side you are on with counterfeit goods. rights stated in the First Amendment of the would have taken place on Jan. 24. this bill, everyone should stand up for their Supporters of the bills say that current Constitution which guarantees freedom of Even with the voting of these bills being rights and make sure that these bills will not copyright laws do not protect the intellectual speech,” Wilson stated. “Many resources postponed, Americans are encouraged to put Americans’ civil liberties in jeopardy.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Adviser’s The Observer is a bi-weekly consolidated newspaper Clayton Gutzmore assistant produced by students of Broward College. Our office Chris Cutro is located at South Campus, Bldg. 68-268, 7200 Pines South bureau chief Managing Editor Blvd., Pembroke Pines, FL 33024. The newsroom can Stephanie Juergens Kyle Rambo STAFF WRITERS be contacted at 754-273-LEAD, or Observer@mail. designers Joshua Mattocks broward.edu. Central Bureau Jorge Castillo Felecia King E-mails to the editor are encouraged. The writer’s Chief Rodrigro Pardo Billy Jean Louis name must be included, although requests for Pamela Valencia Michelle Castano anonymity may be honored at the editor’s discretion. Photographers E-mails must not exceed 300 words. The Observer North Bureau Chief Esther Chuang upholds the right to edit for style or length or to reject David Dulak Michael Sciolino CONTRIBUTING WRITERS publications of letters deemed inappropriate. Cornell Whitehead Vanessa Elie For information concerning editorial policy or Sports editor Copy Editor Olivier Solon advertising rates, call 954-201-8035. Broward college Gustavo Anaya Rafael Baez Natalie Von Cieminski Opinions expressed in this publication are those of Alicia Rubio the writers and do not necessarily reflect those of BC 2010 FCCPA General Photo editor Adviser Catherine De Lafontaine students, staff, faculty and administration. Excellence Award Constanza Gallardo Jennifer Shapiro Showtime at North

Michelle Castano Staff Writer child had to “catch them all.” Laughter is the best kind of medicine. “I just want to thank Student Life That’s why students of Broward College North Campus for providing us with the and friends of the community attended a opportunity to come out and make people comedy show on Jan. 27 at North Campus laugh. We are here to have a good time and in the Omni auditorium. In the words of we hope you have a good time and enjoy the famous Patch Adams, “laughter releases the show; let’s chuckle it up,” said Wright. endorphins and other natural mood In the comedy show, the audience had elevating and pain-killing chemicals. Being the chance of viewing method comedy, happy is the best cure of all diseases.” prop comedy, and even real life situations The comedy show was hosted by BC in which humor was involved. alumni, Gary D. Wright from the 99 Jamz “In that respect, my comedic relief radio station. Moreover, the show included differentiates from the other comedians comedians such as Cerrome Russell, Lady with the fact that I like to talk about my T, and R-Jay, among others. This comedy kids, I like to talk about a mortgage, the show was free and welcomed staff, faculty beach, and Rick Perry,” said comedian, and students. Donations, of course, were Lady T. gladly accepted, with all proceeds going to According to Lady T, comedy doesn’t the United Way foundation. have to be about sticking it, licking it, United Way helps fund organizations whipping it, pushing it, kicking it, touching like the YMCA throughout Broward it, pinching it, stomping it, or smashing County. This association helpsit. With the different styles of comedy underprivileged families succeed within that each comedian brought out, nothing today’s society. Broward College is a major seemed redundant and the material that sponsor towards this organization, and they used was fresh. The audience had the with the help of Wright, it gained revenue chance of listening to different styles of from the donations gathered at the comedy jokes and real life scenarios. show. Comedian R-Jay spoke about his trip to Wright not only hosted the show, Kingston, Jamaica. Comedy show attendee, but told a couple of jokes himself. For Carlos Rego chuckled while stating that instance, he explained why plus sized he never wanted to go to Kingston.“This people shouldn’t wear the color pink. In his show was a hilarious and inspirational, analogue, he elucidated the time when he life changing event and it taught me that wore a shirt of that particular color when humor really is essential,” said Rego. a child threw a Pokéball at him and told Wright that he looked like Jigglypuff, and the

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