Page 1 May 2016

PCCC’s VISIONS Volume LI Issue 7 The Student Newspaper of Passaic County Community College, Paterson, NJ May 2016 “Helping Students, 2016 PCCC Graduates One Scholarship at a Time” Strength and Determination By Thomas Feliciano By Steven Chalas Although Passaic County Community Passaic County Commu- College prides itself on giving students the nity College (PCCC) is a two best education for the lowest possible price, year institute that provides stu- for some, this is still not enough to cover dents with support and services to their expenses. Fora single mother, or some- By Thomas Feliciano help encourage, inspire, and push body just under the poverty line struggling to students toward success. make ends meet, PCCC's rateof $111.50 per The college offers face-to- credit for in-county residents might as well face and online tutoring for stu- be $11,150. It's simply unattainable. dents in various subjects and the This is where the PCCC Foundation tutors are professionally trained comes into play. With the help of donations to give students their best support from very generous organizations, PCCC is on explaining assignments. able to provide scholarships for students in Three students at PCCC were kind enough to share their story much need of financialassistance. One such of determination and sacrifice. Miguel De Jesus, Jr., Patricia Ann event is the Annual Golf Outing held in the Grant Goodman, and Shahid Shibbir are students whose stories are Fall. Another is the Scholarship Gala, which the epitome of what it means to be well-rounded, prepared students is scheduled at the end of the academic year, and professionals entering in the workforce. in the final stretch of the Spring semester. Miguel De Jesus, Jr., a founding member and former Presi- The Gala means a lot to the school and dent of Real Artistic Writers Club, Phi Theta Kappa President, and a its tradition of giving back, but this year's published poet, is honored to be given this opportunity to share his event also marked the 40th Anniversary Celebration for the Foundation. It success story in the PCCC newspaper. was held on Thursday, April 28 at 6:00 p.m in the historic Hamilton Building. Miguel says, “…after careful consideration, I've committed Professors, faculty, student leaders, and volunteers all stood together with the to continue my journey through Academia and Seton Hall University Foundation, who's tagline of, “Dream Big. Achieve More. Give Back.,” set once I graduate from PCCC this May.” the tone with confidence. Another distinguished part of the evening was the He continued to explain how PCCC changed his life: “I was honoring of Harvey Nutter, the Chairman of PCCC's Board of Trustees. lost in the world and didn't even realize it. I came back to college to Among the generous donors in attendance included Manuel Ortega, give my life a new direction and, in doing so, I not only got back onto Tom Bucco, and Michael DeRosa, Council Representatives for the Northeast the right path but I also found myself. Regional Council of Carpenters. The three were (Continued on page 4) I built a solid foundation to continue to (Continued on page 3) Drive to a Dream: Human Services Dinner: Debbie DuHaime Nothing is Impossible By Nicole Owens By Thomas Feliciano “Often what may appear as a detour in life is actually the most di- rect and empowering path to your destination.” -James Arthur Ray Broadcast Journalist Debbie DuHaime, traffic reporter for Total Traf- fic and Weather 970 AM “The Answer,” and fill-in for Eyewitness News ABC 7 NY, hosted a seminar at PCCC to talk about her rise to the position of traffic reporter and share what she felt was most important in helping her on her drive to achieve all that she has in her career. The seminar, titled “Drive to a Dream,” was held on April 25th in the cafeteria's Pa- terson Room with a crowd of about 100 students and faculty in attendance. She spoke about her humble start getting coffee, opening Passaic County Community College builds itself on the service of mail and doing other its student population and the community it fosters. Perhaps in no other errands until she was branch of academia offered at PCCC is this notion more embodied than in able to move up a step the Human Services De- at a time, putting a good partment. Helmed by As- deal of emphasis on the sociate Professor Michael importance of putting in D'Arcangelo, Prof. D’Ar- In this issue the work for yourself to canelo and his team work News...... Pages 2-4 get to where you want around the clock to serve College Life...... Pages 5-7 and learning from the the students who are train- Panther News...... Pages 8-9 ground up. “You can't ing to serve others. This is really just go into Chan- Fear not Technology.....Pages 10-11 why once every year they Vacations for Break...... Pages 11-13 nel 7 and say 'I want to let their hair down and re- be a traffic reporter. For lax, at their annual Human Beauty+...... Pages 13-14 From left to right, Prof. Walter Behr, Prof. ten years I had to be on Visual & Literary Arts..Pages 14-16 Kasandra Pantoja, Debbie DuHaime, Prof. Services Dinner. Christine Redman-Waldeyer, Prof. Caffie Risher (Continued on page 3) (Continued on Page 7 ) Opinion...... Pages 15-16 Page 2 News May 2016

Editor-in-Chief Kevin Leiva EOF Book Discussion Brings Managing Editor Thomas Feliciano Men and Women Together By Monica Melse and Brandon Veal Staff Reporters Steven Chalas What looks surprising on an two principal woman in the book. of them had someone who they held ordinary Monday is to see a group The discussion was followed by other as an important figure in their life. Contributing Writers of well-dressed students and faculty questions concerning different top- Some of which were mentors, fathers, Mohbuba Begum members getting together for a com- ics such as religion, sexual abuse, and father like figures. The discussion Frank Caraccio mon passion: the love of books, read- HIV, the right time to talk about sex touched on what it meant to be a re- Noah Chamberlain ing, and chatting. Normally, Spring with children. The conversation went sponsible adult. Mohammed, an EOF Jordan Chase Break is for relaxation, vacation, and smoothly and everyone shared their student told his story involving his fa- Theresa Cisek parties. However, on March 21st, thoughts. Surprisingly, it ended up ther teaching the value of hard work Royce De Leon 2016, the Educational Opportunity with the realization that the issues and discipline. From there, the males Darian Dominguez Fund (EOF) department at Passaic presented in the book are relatable all openly shared their views of what Darwin Espinal County Community (PCCC) College to our society, and that woman need actually defines manhood which is Aslanbeck Gokeh was hosting their first book discus- to go beyond the criteria and rules to greatly emphasized in the book. The Hampton Humber sion in the Paterson Room find their own definition of what it is discussion transitioned into a work- Lismery Luna The idea for a Book Discus- to be a “free woman”. shop teaching everyone how to tie a Monica Melse sion started when an EOF student, tie. The event had a positive impact Mellanice McFarlane Cassidy Evering, wanted a group of Inspirational Brunch on the young men, who received in- Nicole Owens woman to create a Book Club, where valuable advice from the more expe- Alfrida Pena they could meet to discuss a book In the meantime, the men rienced men who were present. Gemima Pierre-Louis while sipping tea and eating snacks. were having their discussion, in the It is by mutual agreement that Penelope Rodriguez The idea was brought to Ms. Softley Paterson Café, about the book titled: everyone concluded the event was Anthony Sanchez and, with the help of all the faculty “Letter to a Young Brother” by Hill unique, instructive, and empower- Brandon Veal members, Cassidy’s initiative came to Harper. Their host, Brandyn T. Veal, ing. The Inspirational Tea Party and Jesus Vega life. opened up the discussion with a ques- Brunch allowed students and faculty tion of what it means to be a man. members to create a bond where they Faculty Advisor Vintage Style Tea Party The men present were from differ- can share a common passion and use Christine Redman-Waldeyer ent walks of, which consisted of four it as a platform to address important “What Looks Like Crazy on members of PCCC faculty members, topics and learn from each other. In Faculty Proof Editor an Ordinary Day” by Pearl Cleage EOF students, and a group of guest a world where young men and young Amanda Kibler was the book selected for the wom- students from the Brothers United women have so many distractions to en to read. Ms. Softley welcomed Development Spiritual (B.U.D.S) or- keep them away from the right track, Layout Design and invited the ladies to have lunch ganization, who were very receptive. it is important for them to find a place Albert Bustos which was an Edwardian Tea menu The attention was towards the young where their voice is heard and they composed of scones, chicken and men who had different upbringings. can find a mentor. Hopefully, that first rice soup, salad, and desserts. Af- They were asked who they held as experience will be the beginning of a Contact us at: ter making sure that everyone was important role models on their life tradition for the EOF community. [email protected] served, Ms. Softley started the book and how those people shaped their discussion with a comparison of the views and inspired future goals. Each Do monetary fund’s measure success? By Penelope Rodriguez

A college degree has been students pay for school. This in- ceive a large amount of funds that two loans, and I was the only one necessary in order to successfully cludes tuition, fees, living expens- is enough to pay for tuition, books to graduate. It’s not fair when you find a career. Many careers recom- es, books, room and board, and and, sometimes, still have monies want to further youreducation mend that you obtain a Bachelor’s supplies. left over. but you can’t because of financial degree even before viewing your Financial aid may also Of course some of those in- needs. That’s the main reason why resume and considering you for an include financial awards such as dividuals don’t have a care in the many individualsdon’t attend col- interview. loans, grants, or assistantships world for their education; they’re lege. Not because they do not want This is because earning an from the government that you may constantly missing, dropping and/ to, but because they can’t.” Associate’s degree only offers a or may not have to pay back. or failing classes. Then there is me; Students who receive fi- background to a subject, whereas Depending on the students an individual who has been work- nancial aid should maintain a min- a Bachelor’s degree targets specific and parents financial need, finan- ing really hard to improve my GPA imum of a 2.7(B-) GPA. With this classes in the career that you plan cial aid can also include Pell grants and take my studies seriously. I at- restriction only, many individuals on pursuing. It gives you special- that does not need to be repaid. tend all of my classes, give my all who already receive financial aid ized training. Another form of financial aid that in completing my assignments and would not qualify for it. The only problem that can be applied for is the work study not receive one penny. Students who do not receive comes with obtaining a Bachelor’s program that allows students to I understand that financial aid will generally accept the fact degree is the College or Universi- work on campus. Not only does the aid is based on the financial need that those who are, are doing well ty tuition cost. Wherever you plan funds that students learn help them of the student and how the taxes in school and possibly everything on attending to earn a Bachelor’s with their school tuition, but it also of the parents come into play, but to maintain it. Household income degree, there is a tuition fee that gives them the opportunity to make wouldn’t it make sense for financial should not determine financial aid includes, for many schools, a base the school to work transition. aid to be given to students who want funds; your GPA should because it rate for a certain amount of credits, In order to be considered to study? Who want to exceed? To shows the progress of your degree room and board if you plan on liv- for financial aid, the student or the those who maintain a high GPA? evaluation over the course of your ing in a dorm, transportation fees, student’s parents must complete Financial aid should have semester. supplies, and a meal plan. Need- the FASFA, Free Application for some sort of restrictions that does The more you improve your less to say, the average amount Federal Student Aid. This must be not include the amount of credits GPA, the harder work you’ve put you’re looking about spend is about filled out at www.fafsa.ed.gov. that has to be taken in order to re- into improving your grades. $18,000, more or less. Of course it The only dilemma about fi- ceive it. is less expensive if you’re a com- nancial aid is the awarded amount Marisa Costa, a graduate muter but school has to be paid students receive back. I say this of Berkley College, stated, “A lot somehow, right? because - from experience - I’ve of the individuals that I attend- Many students apply for fi- never received financial aid while ed school with all received finan- nancial aid. Financial aid are funds attending this institution. However, cial aid. And of course there was given by the government tohelp I have known individuals who re- me. The one who had to take out Page 3 News May 2016 Drive to a Dream: Debbie DuHaime (Continued from page 1) local radio stations and build and build my re- She persisted in sending resumes, seeking finish nursing school.” sume.” out internships and other opportunities and mak- Sometimes hearing from those that were once During her speech, DuHaime spoke ex- ing repeated phone calls for even the slimmest in our shoes and have successfully learned to tensively about the importance of surrounding chance at an opportunity to get her foot in the navigate from this spot can give us a much-need- yourself with positive people and shared an an- door, and said that she's grateful that her back- ed morale boost, which can serve to help us keep ecdote about her first job as a traffic reporter with ground in sales made her better equipped to han- our focus on the prize and to remember that there Total Traffic, which involved having to fly up dle rejection and keep moving. Being involved is an end in sight and that it is in fact within reach. and observe traffic volume from a small Cessna with various shows and stations while attending “Listening to Debbie DuHaime, and listening 172 two-seater plane and ended in an emergency Ramapo College and William Paterson Univer- to her stories of persistence, really for me I trans- landing after her getting sick, but encouragement sity also provided her with many opportunities late as a story of fearlessness, because fear can from the pilot is what she credits with helping to gain experience that helped her later in her ca- really kinda choke you, and she spoke about that. her overcome that initial fear. “He said 'Debbie, reer. “All of those steps are gonna bring us to our But your willingness to introduce yourself, to be you can do it. I'll see you tomorrow here at 3.' final path, our final destination. I was learning in the moment and to keep going out there know- And that's what I mean ing what you want and about positive people. “ Often what may appear as a detour in life is not blocking yourself is So I took the Dramamine such a beautiful story for and I did it. Even that pi- actually the most direct and empowering path us to learn from,” said lot, to this day, he has no Prof. Kassandra Pantoja idea that his kind words to your destination.” -James Arthur Ray of Sociology. and his encouragement DuHaime, a staunch meant so much to me.” and this was all preparing me for the next step.” supporter of volunteer work and giving back Making connections with others, being kind DuHaime serves as the perfect example of to the community, is involved with many local and supporting them, building your resume, how we must also be able to prioritize our lives charities and organizations such as the NJ State working hard and trusting that it will all work when we are faced with hurdles. Things won't Organization of Cystic Fibrosis (NJSOCF), Nas- out are all things DuHaime spoke about needing always work out the way we'd like them to, and san's Place (for inner-city kids with autism), to keep in mind on your “drive to your dream.” so she stressed the importance of being prepared Dress for Success, Good Counsel Homes, the She stressed how crucial every small step in her to make changes to your plans as necessary. Du- Epilepsy Foundation of NJ, and the Board for life was to her success and told students to take Haime said she has no doubt that taking time off National Career Institute among others. She also whatever opportunities we're given, because you from college was the right thing to do when her spoke of her support for the Boys and Girls Club never know what door will open, whether it's an son started having medical issues, and stated un- and The Big Brother and Sister programs for unpaid internship or you're getting coffee and equivocally that raising her son was her greatest helping local youth, and praised celebrities like opening mail. “Whatever level you get in, you achievement and by far the most important job Fetty Wap, Victor Cruz and Derek Jeter for re- work your way up.” She described months of in her life. membering where they came from and being in- repeatedly calling and following up with people “Have a Plan A, B, and C. Sometimes Plan volved in community affairs in Passaic County. she hoped could help connect her to her dream C is just what happens. Just trust that it's go- As the proud daughter of PCCC Board of and find an “in,” until it paid off in the way of a ing to work out, because it will. As long as you Trustee member and former Passaic County job at the Rush Limbaugh Show. After starting keep working hard, and you're determined, your freeholder Richard DuHaime, and mother Anne out doing errands for the show, DuHaime worked dreams are going to come true. You're all so DuHaime, the first woman to serve as mayor in her way up until she was working in production. young and have so much ahead of you. You have their hometown of Bloomingdale, New Jersey, Various shows and stations followed with youth on your side, you have education on your it's no wonder DuHaime is so passionate about more and more opportunities to branch out, and side, you are in a wonderful environment here her community. DuHaime fondly recalled being no matter how tedious or seemingly irrelevant at Passaic County Community College and I en- a teenager and being proud to see her parents re- the work, each new position brought with it a courage you all to just keep on following those ferred to as “Mr. and Mrs. Passaic County” in a new set of skills to learn, like having to pre-in- dreams.” news article during a time they were both in of- terview guests, check with producers, view maps DuHaime closed up the seminar on a fice, and she attributes a good deal of her success and screens, check microphones, etc. Broadcast- light-hearted note with a fictitious traffic report to her parents and the unyielding support they ing, DuHaime explained, required working odd that was met with laughter and applause from the provided throughout her life, in addition to the hours and a fair amount of discipline and flexi- crowd, before inviting the audience to ask ques- example they set with their own ambitious ded- bility, particularly in traffic reporting where she tions and come up and meet and/or take pictures ication and commitment to Passaic County over says she doesn't use a teleprompter and must co- with her. the years. ordinate with others and be informed on all as- Her words to the students and faculty of Those interested in more information about pects of her job at all times. All of the legwork PCCC were received positively, with Nursing the seminar or contacting Debbie DuHaime di- put in at the beginning has helped her to become student Natasha Johnson, 24, telling me that rectly can contact Prof. Kassandra Pantoja, DLS the successful woman she is, having worked her “her words really touched me because I've had Co-chair and Sociology Instructor at kpantoja@ way from the bottom up, with dreams still of go- my own medical issues and had to drop out for 2 pccc.edu. ing even further and becoming a sportscaster one years. I just came back in September. Her words day. just gave me the push I needed to keep going to 2016 PCCC Graduates Strength and Determination (Continued from page 1) build upon and now I'm working on polishing myself.” gave up on me.” from: www.cpa.ca image To further emphasize polishing himself, De Jesus was not ini- However, De Jesus has tially an English major; he enrolled into PCCC as an Engineering ma- faced his setbacks and is excel- jor because he “…knew engineers make a lot of money.” However, ling in all aspects of his life. He being at PCCC taught De Jesus that he should follow his passion and will be graduating with an above do what he loves: “I love to write and I'm proud to say that I just pub- average grade point average lished my first book of poetry, ‘The Perception of a Paterson Poet’ and (GPA), and has been a tutor in I just finished writing my first children's book, ‘The Calf and the Cats’ two departments at PCCC, which has given him valuable experience which should be published later this year.” for a career as an English Professor. He stated, “…after I acquire my Even though De Jesus has had much success, it did not come master's degree, hopefully I'll find myself teaching back here at Passaic immediately. He stated, “I graduated high school almost 20 years ago County Community College”. to the day, and I started working rather than go to college. I kept telling Advice to PCCC students: “Never give up, and once you start don't myself every year that I'll go back to college next year and I did that stop until you're finished.” for a while. Then, without even realizing it, I gave up on that dream. I Page 4 News May 2016

“Helping(Continued from page 1) Students, One Scholarship at a Time” joined by a large group from their pay a low tuition.” The training at “true meaning of community.” He The evening was highlight- organization, including John Bal- PCCC, which Dr. Perez helps to di- sees the college, and his pursuit of ed by the honoring of Mr. Harvey lantyne, the Executive Secretary rect into the classrooms, helps stu- an English Degree, as a stepping Nutter. The Executive Director of Treasurer. dents to either get a job or go on to stone that can help him one day re- the Greater Paterson Opportunities Ortega said that Ballantyne their four year school. Either way, turn and teach others. Industrialization Center, Inc. In his instills in the team a tradition of he said that PCCC gives students “a DeJesus should be a model work with the OIC from 1978 on- giving back to the community ward, he has helped thousands and a strong sense of personal of students obtain a GED, get responsibility to give back. Buc- training in Microsoft Office, co said the Northeast Regional and most importantly, get a job Council of Carpenters tradition because of their newfound edu- of charity is “too numerous to cation. mention.” Nutter holds two Lifetime Another notable figure Achievement Awards, from in attendance was Dr. Gonzalo William Paterson University E. Perez, the Executive Assis- and the Great Falls Preservation tant to the President and Assis- Development Corporation. His tant Dean for Academic Affairs. other achievements are far too Aside from these two titles, many to print, however he re- Dr. Perez continues teaching at ceived an extraordinary award PCCC for higher level courses from the PCCC Foundation at in his field, Computer Science. this year's Gala, Dr. Perez was thrilled the PCCC Foundation's Com- at the opportunity to both cele- munity Service Award. brate the Foundation's 40th year With generous donors, dis- and alsoraise money that would di- better chance to be successful.” for students. He took 18 years off of tinguished faculty, successful stu- rectly translate into scholarships. One such successful student school after he became complacent dents, and highlighted community He spoke about how money was who was in attendance was Miguel with his current work situation. leaders, the PCCC Foundation's raised by professors as well, by pur- DeJesus. He was there to help out, That all changed when his place of 40th Anniversary Celebration and chasing a ticket at the door to the but also understood the importance employment closed its doors and Annual Scholarship Gala was a event. He also thanked the donors of scholarships, as he was the recip- began laying people off. This was a capstone in a highly eventful aca- who made such an event possible. ient of one himself. wake up call that forced him to ad- demic year. And with everybody in Dr. Perez also praised DeJesus earned a $500 just his life goals. In providing hope attendance on board, the scholar- PCCC as a school where students scholarship from The World Or- for the PCCC student body, DeJe- ships they help raise can elevate fu- can, “serve the community, take ganization for Positive Action sus said, “Don't take time off. Set a ture students into filling these pres- advantage of fantastic faculty, and (WOPA). PCCC taught him the goal, and don't lose sight of it.” tigious shoessome day in the future. Scientist and Eastside High School Graduate Visits PCCC By Frank Caraccio On Friday, April Guests in attendance 29th, 2016, PCCC wel- included the Depu- comed NASA scien- ty Consul General of tist and Eastside High Peru, Senator Pou, and School graduate Jacke- a representative from lynne Silva. Mrs. Silva Mayor Joey Torres. had come to PCCC to Before the speech talk about “How Curi- kicked off, Mrs. Silva osity Got Her to Mars”. was presented with The speech took place several certificates of at 2:00 in the afternoon achievement. First, in the PCCC Theater Senator Pou present- as a part of the STEM ed a State Senate and program at PCCC’s General Assembly string of Women in resolution resolving to STEM lecture unit they acknowledge Mrs. Sil- have been running this va as an outstanding spring semester. person and acknowl- For those that Jackelynne Silva with PCCC students and Prof. Dennis Reer, STEM Director in the STEM Lab,. edging her achieve- don’t know, the STEM ment in her career. Jet Propulsion Labs. Silva now works forNASA program at PCCC is a 4.1 million dollar, five The Deputy Consul General also presented Mrs. and is pursuing her second Master’s Degree. year grant that emphasizes fields in Science Silva with a certificate showing the Consul Gen- Before the speech kicked off, students in Technology Engineering and Math for students eral and the nation of Peru’s pride in Mrs. Silva’s PCCC’s STEM program, dual enrollment stu- in high school and PCCC students. Some of the accomplishments and achievement. The repre- dents, and myself had the privilege of having privileges that the program offers is dual enroll- sentative from Mayor Torres’ office presented a meet and greet with Mrs. Silva to ask her a ment for high school students, allowing students Silvawith a certificate of the same kind. couple of questions before we all went into the to earn college level credits before graduating After the awards and certificates were auditorium. high school, workshops, field trips, and events finished being presented, Mrs. Silva began her Some topics discussed in the meet and such as the speech given by Mrs. Silva. speech. She talked on the work she did at JPL greet were how Mrs. Silva felt about going into Mrs. Silva started from humble begin- with the technology for the arm of the Mars rov- a majorly male dominated field of engineering, nings in Peru, then immigrated to the United er “Curiosity” and gave more of her personal what NASA was up to lately, and what drew her States in her childhood to later move to Paterson history. to becoming an astronaut. On the subject of be- for her high school years. She graduated from During this speech, Mrs. Silva offered ing a female in a male dominated field, Mrs. Sil- EastsideHigh School to then go on to pursue her the audience an inside look into how engineer- va said “As long as you’re doing what you love Bachelors in Aerospace Science from Rutgers ing for NASA actually works and shared some and having fun, it doesn’t matter.” University. Mrs. Silva also holds a second Bach- pictures of the past projects she had worked on There were several notable faces at the elors and also a Masters in Aerospace Engineer- including Curiosity at different stages of its as- speech once the meet and greet was concluded. ing. She has worked for Lockheed Martin and sembly. Page 5 College Life May 2016 Spotlight: Meet One of this year’s Graduates By Kevin A. Leiva Lavina Anne Johnson, a 49-year-old and this is a big step towards me accomplishing rience here and I would not change a thing. The Criminal Justice major will be graduating this that goal,” she reflected. ride got bumpy at times but I did not get off.” spring. She has been a student since 2013, and Through her time at PCCC, Mrs. John- Mrs. Johnson wanted to leave students has had a bumpy road to graduation. son has observed things she would change about her parting advice: “Please don't give up or let “I have seizures, and there were times I our school environment. “I would introduce an anyone make you think you can't achieve your would get sick, but I would show up for class and initiative to help students get to know each other dreams. There are warriors in all of us and get- then I would go to the hospital,” she explained.“I and participate more in school activities. We all ting a great education is worth fighting for. Make always wanted to be a homicide investigator, but come from different backgrounds and I love that it happen. Secure your place in the job market of my brain tumor has stopped that dream.” about the college. All the flavors of people that tomorrow by educating yourself today. I look at Despite of her own medical difficulties, promote forming life long friendships. I would the beautiful, talented and gifted students I met Mrs. Johnson has adapted and overcome them like to focus on that and work on having activi- and I am in awe of what you all have accom- all, successfully achieving all the credits neces- ties to promote more unity, (like) promoting and plished. It easy to follow the path every one else sary to graduate with her associates in Criminal having full house for all our sports and theater follows but you have all decided to make your Justice. “I was not going to let the brain tumor events. Having a Fall Homecoming Ball and path change to fit your journey. Don't stop be- dictate how I lived my life.” Ceremony every year.” lieving in yourselves, you all are one of-a-kind Lavina has forged a new dream, instead Upon reflecting on things the college did treasures. “ of giving up on her old one- she has decided to offer, she fondly recalled her tears the Justice Along with the rest of the graduating go on to be a private security service business Club’s 9/11 field trip, as well as her long talks class, Visions wishes Mrs. Johnson all the best owner. “I always wanted to be a business owner, with Professor Bookbinder. “I loved my expe- in her future endeavors. Is Community College Now The Better Option? By Aslanbeck Gokeh Once high school ends, many students look to further their educa- Of course there are reasons Mrs. Jones feels two-year colleges tion in order to achieve a goal they have for themselves. That goal would gives students an advantage when applying to four-year universities: “stu- be obtaining a degree in some kind of field. dents may receive full scholarships from these schools, there is opportuni- Many students feel the best option is to go immediately to a four- ty for dorming, and these schools may have special programs that a student year school to start their higher education. However, a four-year school may want - for example, a pharmaceutical program.” may not be the best option after high school. However, if you are a student who is unsure of where to go, what The process of applying to four-year schools and choosing the to do, and want to save money while discovering the answers to your ques- right one is very stressful for a young man/woman. However, going to a tions, community college would be the perfect place for you. community college may a better option. A current PCCC student, Nart Gokeh, who happens to be my older Community College possess many things students can take advantage of. sibling, began going to William Paterson University. He was undecided It allows one to relax, grow and develop while allotting for more time to and ended up having a tough time there. He said “transferring over to figure out a major and a plan. Many students may feel unprepared when community college has helped me to take a step back, observe myself, and they come to college, so community college is a tool to provide everyone ultimately decide what I wanted to do, and I saved a lot of money doing with the opportunity to figure out what to do or where to go. so. I wish I chose PCCC from the beginning.” No stress is involved in applying for a community college. There Community college offers a chance to make progress for students is 100% acceptance rate for all applicants, and the SAT scores are not re- who are unsure, without losing the time or credits, if they are to avoid quired. That allows for students to clear their minds and focus their atten- school and take a year off. tion to what is important, which is what they are going to be studying. Imagine the difference between taking a year off of school to figure out Lisa Jones, Assistant Director of PCCC, said that “Community what to do as opposed to going to a community college, taking General College allows students an opportunity to better prepare for a Bachelor’s Education Courses, and finding what you want to study without being a program, while saving students a lot of money.” year behind. Presidential Democratic Candidates on Education:

By Alfrida Pena Lower Costs Many college students struggle with pay- attention to - these are the people who want to "New College Compact" will go to college ing for tuition. This struggle may result in stu- help us strive to become the best we can be. I grants. These grants will ensure that students do dents having to get a job to pay off debits which, will most likely vote for Clinton. I agree with not need to take out loans for tuition, which will in turn, can cause class drop outs and withdraws. a lot of her views and I know that she wants to also help reduce the burden of living expenses at However, education can guarantee a career, and help students achieve without having to strug- 4-year public colleges. As well, Clinton would that is where the Presidential election can help gle.” allow refinancing at the current federal rate for students. Nursing student, Melissa, said, “I am not student loans. Therefore, around one-third of the Students can be misinformed into believ- voting for anyone; all politics are liars they just monies will go toward relief on interest from stu- ing that voting is a waste of time and that politi- say what you want to hear until they get into of- dent debt. Clinton’s plan will "significantly cut cians are liars who make broken promises. Even fice. Then they act as if all they promised was the interest rate on student loans." so, there are a few students who are oblivious never said. They say things just to get a vote; I This program will also provide free tui- that a Presidential election is coming up. What don’t want to vote and I am not going to vote.” tion at community colleges, and support private can be done to educate students who are not A students whose name will not be dis- non-profit colleges by keeping costs low and aware of how important the Presidential election closed stated, “Who is running? The election is providing value. Students will have to do their is? this year? Wow I had no idea it was this soon.” part by contributing their 10 hours per week Interviewing and sharing information According to NASFFA, Presidential can- work earnings. with students about the two Presidential can- didate Clinton plans to increase college enroll- Clinton’s New College Compact costs in the didates’ and their views on Education helps us ment by simplifying the FAFSA. Clinton plans range of $350 billion over 10 years, and "will better understand the miscommunication about to "consolidate the four income-based repay- be fully paid for by closing tax loopholes and present politics in the United States. ment programs into a single program with the expenditures for the most fortunate." A current student from Passaic County same rules for everyone: Every student borrower Presidential candidate Sanders' proposal, Community College (PCCC), Amanda Rodri- will know they can enroll in a program where according to NASFFA, would create a pilot pro- guez - a Business major - said, “Many students they never have to pay more than 10 percent of gram to eliminate the requirement that students do not know that voting in the next Presidential income, with college debt forgiven after 20 years re-apply for financial aid each year. election can potential become beneficial. Candi- so that those who consistently make payments Sanders would enable borrowers to re- dates who agree to help young students; these can move on in their lives." finance their loans based on the interest rates are the candidates we should be paying a close More than half of the total funds of Clinton's available to current stu- (Continued on Page 6) Page 6 College Life May 2016 2016 PCCC GRADUATES STRENGTH AND DETERMINATION By Steven Chalas In another interview, Patricia Ann and tribulations here at PCCC. She stated, “I was seling. Also, she is working at Bergan Regional Grant-Goodman, an Educational Opportunity broken down when I began my education expe- Medical Center in the detox department and IOP Fund student and Human Service Major, said that rience and rebuild with a purpose. After losing patients. she is a woman who failed math several times my husband, my job, and my house, I lost focus She has learned the art of moving forward over a three (3) year stay at PCCC. She was able of my purpose because of so much misfortune without falling down – although there might be to pass the College Writing Exam (CWE) and along with personality conflict in my social cir- trips along the way. other required courses, but math was holding her cle.” Her advice to PCCC students is as fol- back. After all of the stress, she started working lows: “NEVER GIVE UP, KEEP COMING with the EOF Lab Math Specialist Deanna Sil- FOR CLASS, KEEP SHOWING UP FOR EX- ver, and made the lab her second home: “I took TRA HELP IN LABS, YOUR PROFESSOR’S room and board there.” From there, Grant-Good- OFFICE, CAMP OUT, BRING A SANDWICH, man was able to take all the time she needed in OFFER THEM A CUP OF COFFEE, AND order to fully understand the mathematical con- SAY, and ‘HEY? I’M NOT GETTING IT AND cepts she was learning. I DON’T KNOW THE RIGHT QUESTIONS In addition to the lab, Grant-Goodman also went TO ASK. CAN YOU HELP ME PLEASE?’” to her professor for extra assistance: “I pressed They like it when you are hungry for education into my Professor Deidra Nance and the tutor- it all in your approach. ing lab, prayed real hard and did not go and play jump rope or jacks with my friends when they Last Thoughts: “Be an example to your family. wanted to go for lunch, movies, and coffee.” Our purpose in life is always bigger than our- Most students find it difficult to go to selves; we just don’t realize it yet! Keep at it their professors for assistance; however, pro- However, her experience at PCCC was until the vision is clear and you can touch it! You fessors are the number one source of support in not all tooth and nail. She emphasizes that her don’t have to look at the movies and videos to class. Now, Grant-Goodman is excelling in her experience was positive and rebuilding. Previ- dream. Be the dream becoming reality. Never math course and has never felt so confident in ously, Grant-Goodman would refer to her as: allow your circumstances to be bigger than you comparison to last year: “Last year I had an ‘F’ “Rambo with a bandana around my head, hand because it will be like a butterfly with beautiful in this class last year. With the supportive team sanitizer, water, vitamins, yogurt and popcorn.” colorful wings tied to a rock, then you can’t fly. here at PCCC the 1st score was 74, the 2nd 78, Now she is a warrior chanting: “I’m coming out Don’t compete with your fellow students to the the 3rd 89, the 4th 94 and I have one more test of this!” point they fill lesser than, hold each other up! It before the final. I never been so confident and Going forward, Grant-Goodman stated works. You never know who will be your boss believed in myself as much as I do now. If you that she will be getting her B.A. and M.A. in one day. Watch out for melt-downs. If you can’t ever were down before you know where I am Counseling from William Paterson or Montclair handle something, tell the professor or a coun- coming from with this.” State University. She already has a certification selor everybody’s life matter here at PCCC. Grant-Goodman has defeated many trials in Mental Health and in Drug and Alcohol Coun- 2016 PCCC GRADUATES By Steven Chalas Lastly, Shahid Shibbir, a Libguide, Black- come challeng- in Newark, NJ. Management Information System board for submit- es, but PCCC Advice to students: “Those (MIS) major, stated that his expe- ting homework, students know who are not graduated yet, I defi- rience at PCCC was, in one word, projects and as- that education is nitely tell you that continue your “amazing”. He said, “When I think signments online worth going the education at PCCC until you grad- about my beginning days at PCCC, are really helpful. extra mile. Nev- uate and try to improve yourselves smile automatically comes on my Writing Center, ertheless, if one using all given facilities such as PC- face. After immigrated to the USA, Gateway Center, works diligently, CC’s online service, writing center, I was so passionate to complete my computer lab and success can be tutors and different co-curriculum education.” almost all courses achieved. activities: Student Government As- His amazing experience free tutors are just Overall I sociation, PCCC journalism, debate stems from a variety of sources in- effective to be am doing great. club, Business Leadership Club and cluding the educational benefits and good students and I already passed so many others.” the curriculum PCCC has to offer: to gain knowledge.” the College Writing Exam (CWE) Last Thoughts: “To say “I was running different schools However, his journey was which is a mandatory essay exam something motivational, I will defi- with my foreign certificates but lat- not perfectly laid out. Shahid men- needed to graduate. In classes, my nitely say that if you have thou- er on I figured out that PCCC would tioned that “…it is always chal- performances are satisfactory, but sands of obstacles but your desire be one of the best options for me to lenging to continue college educa- obviously the last semester is has is to complete education, just go begin my study with cost efficien- tion with full time work and, being a lot more pressures. Nonetheless, through what Martin Luther King cy. The PCCC education curricu- honest, I think I am blessed to take I am also blessed with really great stated "If you can't fly then run, if lum is just extraordinary. PCCC this challenge. With my parent’s professors who are supportive and you can't run then walk, if you can't is continuously increasing its ed- outstanding encouragement and my helpful. walk then crawl, but whatever you ucational supports for the benefits passion for education, I will contin- After leaving PCCC, Shahid do you have to keep moving for- of students. For example, online ue my education.” With passions plans to attend Rutgers University ward” and just keep moving.” Presidential Democratic Candidates on Education (Continued from page 5) dents. Sanders' plan would lower student loan interest rates by restoring under this program would be allowed to be used to fund administrator the variable rate formula which was in effect until 2006. salaries, merit-based financial aid, or the construction of non-academic In addition, rates would never rise above 8.25 percent. Senator buildings like stadiums and student centers. Sanders' plan is offset by "im- Sanders' plan would provide $47 billion per year to states to eliminate posing a Wall Street speculation fee on investment houses, hedge funds, undergraduate tuition and fees at public colleges and universities. and other speculators of 0.5% on stock trades (50 cents for every $100 The federal government would cover 67 percent of this cost, while worth of stock), a 0.1% fee on bonds, and a 0.005% fee on derivatives." the states would be responsible for the remaining 33 percent. No funding Page 7 College Life May 2016 Human Services Dinner (Continued from page 1) This year's event, the 15th a diploma. This agent told him that of such dinners, was held on Fri- one could obtain up to 30 college day, April 22 in the Cafeteria and credits without even completing Paterson Room of the Main Cam- high school. And so, Prof. Rivera pus. Festivities officially began at embarked on a journey that would 6:30 p.m., although Prof. D'Arcan- change his life forever. gelo, his staff, and team of student The larger point of his volunteers arrived earlier to set up speech was to inspire students in the and greet the guests who arrived. ways of professionalism and main- After each student, alumni, taining a proper attitude. During and PCCC faculty member were his work in the field, he saw people asked to sign in, they dispersed come to interviews in flip-flops and throughout the cafeteria for a meet shorts, and even worse, Master's and greet with friendly faces, past crowd about nostalgia and how vices Department faculty, they graduates who couldn't properly di- and present. Shortly after 6:30, fin- PCCC is home. This student, nick- worked extremely hard to build a agnose something as widely known ger foods were laid out for guests named “Dano,” also hammered in foundation to help facilitate stu- as schizophrenia. to partake in as the event got un- for those in attendance the impor- dents getting the most of their edu- Professionalism was in derway. Then, Prof. D'Arcange- tance of mastering the APA format. cation and moving onward to better large supply at this year's Human lo took the stage for his opening Prof. Gasparino then took opportunities. Services Dinner. Professors D'Ar- address, welcoming the room and the stage once again. She gave an The driving factor of her cangelo, Gasparino, and Rivera filling them in on the point of the emotional speech about returning speech, however, was that nothing all took different roads to find suc- evening's gathering. to college later in life. She began is impossible with the right mind- cess. But the point throughout it He began by asking the re- her pursuit of higher education as a set. She said, “Don't say no, say all is that they could not have ac- turning students to raise their hands “30-something single mom.” What how can I.” complished anything if they didn't if they were attending a four-year sparked her desire for more in life Afterwards, dinner was laid believe they could. capable. And institution of higher knowledge. was seeing her daughter approach out at 7:45, and officially wrapped now, their work is to make PCCC After taking a tally, he then asked high school and taking an intro- up a little after 8:15 p.m. students believe the same about for another show of hands for stu- spective look at where she stood in To drive the point home themselves. dents in their Master's level pursuit the race. even further about how students of education. He then asked for the She also invited students can achieve greatly in their lives Human Services list to be updated, to maintain a constant relation- even after a slow start, Professor before inviting Professor Jennifer ship with their current professors. Antonio Rivera took the podium Gasparino to the podium for an ad- She said Prof. D'Arcangelo prom- after dinner for a brief summary dress of her own. ised her a job opportunity once of his life experience. Prof. Gasparino took the she had the credentials to secure it. He told the crowd that he stage to introduce the Nicholas Although the initial position was a took 3rd Grade three times and DeGennaro Jr. Memorial Foun- replacement, Prof. Gasparino was dropped out of high school as a dation Human Services Graduate sure that once her foot was in the sophomore. He then obtained “a Scholarship. Her daughter, Elaine door, she wouldn't relinquish her PHD in street psychology.” He Gasparino, was called up to pro- spot for anything in the world. let those in attendance fill in the vide background information on Prof. Gasparino also spoke gaps as to what he meant by this the scholarship's namesake and about how PCCC became her euphemism. presented the award to this year's home. Not only did she feel com- Prof. Rivera spoke about recipient. fortable in the classroom as a stu- how professors and people in At this, Prof. D'Arcangelo dent, she remained active after be- authority need to be “change once again stood to the podium. coming a Professor at the college. agents.” One such change agent He invited up one of his favorite Between herself, Prof. D'Arcange- urged him to go back to college. returning students to address the lo, and the rest of the Human Ser- He responded that he was without Frat Life: To Pledge or Not to Pledge? By Mohbuba Begum Every year during the first couple months ties. very seriously! Therefore, during the pledging of college, fraternities and sororities look for However, sometimes fraternities are bro- process, forget about having a social life outside their newest recruits. ken down by race. Hispanics may belong to one of college. Balancing classes, adjusting to col- Most universities have fraternities, soror- fraternity and athletes may make up a majority lege time, and committing to a club may be too ities, or other forms of extracurricular activities. of another sorority. You can find a group of peo- much on new students. Once you decide which fraternity or sorority you ple you best fit in with and join them. Hazing and branding shows true loyalty want to be a part of, there is still the pledging A positive aspect of fraternities and sororities and devotion in fraternities and sororities. process to determine who has what it takes to be are that alumni’s of the organization have great Hazing cases are pretty rare, but they do occur. a part of that fraternity. There may be the rare job connections. Sometimes a successful alumni Greek life is taken very seriously on campus, es- incidents of hazing across the nation that occa- may have a job opportunity open and the first pecially by older members. Pledges may be dan- sionally hit the news, but that certainly does not place he or she will let it be known is with the gerous and ill-mannered to scare pledgers away, speak on the many other aspects involved in be- organization. It is a great way to network and sell but that should not scare someone away from longing to a fraternity or sorority. With that be- yourself to employers. joining a fraternity or sorority. ing said, what is the point of being in a fraternity Sororities or fraternities also promote Anna Marte, a sophomore at William Pa- or sorority? volunteering. These groups usually partner with terson University, spoke about her involvement Fraternities and sororities are not for a specific charity. You could find your favorite in Delta Phi Epsilon her freshman year. She said, everyone. Fraternities, or Frats, are a “brother” charity and join the Greek organization that sup- “Joining Greek Life definitely isn’t for everyone. organization. Sororities, or Soror, are a “sister” ports it. Giving back the community is some- Some people love it. Some people hate it. It all organization. Some colleges have co-ed fraterni- thing most organizations do to help and gain life depends on the person. Personally, I love every- ties where females may pledge for them. skills. thing about it. I met really nice people that I con- There are many benefits of being in a fra- Fraternities and sororities are also known sider my sisters now.” She immediately felt at ternity or sorority. Being involved is a great way for throwing social gatherings. home with the girls who were already members. to make friends. Your club members become There are drawbacks to joining a frater- Their upcoming event is a bake sale where the your family away from home; they are there for nity too. Being part of these organizations is a proceeds go towards Suicide Prevention. you and share a mutual interest in similar activi- huge commitment. Organizations take pledging (Continued on Page 9) Page 8 Panther News May 2016 NerdNation 2016 Testimonials “NerdNation 2016 was an amazing to attend NerdNation 2016 and meeting so experience for me. I took on the role of Al- many people at convention. It was a true pha Eta Chi’s Chapter President because honor for being part of the most important I wanted to see our Chapter and Passaic and historical event in our Chapter’s his- County Community College (PCCC) rec- tory. I just hope this will spark our current ognized at the Phi Theta Kappa Region- members to step up and continue to truly al and International conferences. Since make Alpha Eta Chi a true honor society.” Middle States, the region Alpha Eta Chi – Rayniery Gomez, Historian, 2016-2017 represents, was the host region for the In- President Elect ternational Conference, we had our Re- gional Conference during NerdNation. I In the beginning, it was just fellow- am proud to say that because of the exe- ship, followed by leadership, enriched with cution and vision of our awesome advisor, service, showered with scholarship, only to Professor Jennifer Gasparino, we achieved go back to a stronger bond of fellowship. the goal we set out to accomplish and have Phi Theta Kappa has taught me the im- surpassed my expectations tremendously. portance of networking, opportunity, leg- The Chapter was awarded 16 awards at the Alpha Eta Chi 2015-2016 Dream Team acy, and experience. The Phi Theta Kap- Regional level, 3 awards at the Internation- pa International Convention 2016 (a.k.a., al level, and received 3 scholarships for 3 of NerdNation) gave me the opportunity to meet our Chapter members. Personally, I learned a new friends across the world, strengthened great deal about myself and my fellow Chap- bonds, not only within my group, but also ter members. The time spent with my fellow outside Passaic County Community College. Chapter members and the conversations we I was bestowed the honor of carrying the flag had strengthened our relationships and I have of New Jersey during the opening ceremony, now adopted them as family. I had the oppor- I challenged myself by joining the Speech tunity to reconnect with other Phi Theta Kap- Competition at the International level, and I pa members that I had the pleasure of meeting learned that legacy and service do not always before, but only converse with through social need recognition. NerdNation 2016, over- media. Also, I met a great deal of new Kap- all, provided me with an amazing experience pans for the first time and forged new friend- that I will always cherish for the rest of my ships. Joining Phi Theta Kappa was the best life. -Emelita Bardzell, 2015 Secretary, Frank decision of my college career and life; I have Lanza Memorial Scholarship Winner Kristen Livria - Chapter Member Hall of Fame grown so much because of all the fellowship, scholarship, and service, which has helped Phi Theta Kappa, more like Phi The- make me a better leader.” - Miguel De ta Family is more than an Honor Society Jesus, 2015-2016 President, 2016 Distin- for two year colleges, it is a powerhouse of guished Chapter Officer knowledge, love, acceptance, perseverance, motivation, and inspiration. With beneficial “NerdNation 2016 was truly a won- workshops abound, Nerd Nation 2016 not derful experience. The fact that Alpha Eta only provided me with a deeper understand- Chi, PCCC’s Phi Theta Kappa Chapter was ing of the importance in our Honors in Ac- finally recognized in our region and inter- tion and College Projects, it filled me with nationally is like a dream come true. Win- a sense of accomplishment, recognition, re- ning the regional Hallmark Awards for the spect, and inspiration for projects to come. College Project and Honors in Action, rec- This trip strengthened a bond I never knew ognized as the Regional Distinguish Chap- would be built. Phi Theta Kappa has given ter ranked 4th, International Distinguished me opportunity, reflection, and that extra College Project award, watching Dr. Rose push I needed, without even knowing what receive the Shirley B. Gordon College Pres- I needed! ident award, being named in the top 100 In- Miguel DeJesus - Distinguished Chapter Officer -Kristen Livria, 2016 Member Hall of ternational Chapters, and so much more is Fame, 2016-2017 Vice President Elect just surreal. I can't believe all that hard work in just one semester put our Chapter in the spot light. I know as incoming President I have a lot of work Attending NerdNation 2016 was an experience I will cherish to do. I know there will be times that I might want to give up, but I know throughout my tenure as the Faculty Advisor for Alpha Eta Chi. This ex- with the support of my fellow Phi Theta Kappa members and our Faculty perience was simultaneously rewarding and invigorating. Watching the Advisor, Professor Gasparino, we can improve and accomplish so much students experience such an event provided me with overwhelming joy, more. At first I was afraid of being the new President of our Chapter, I first and they represented Passaic County Community College and our Chapter thought ‘I have big shoes to fill’, especially our current President’s shoes, with pride, enthusiasm, and professionalism. I was fortunate enough to but I learned that what I truly need to fill is my own shoes. I want to leave watch this group of students grow academically, personally, and profes- my own legacy and accomplish more with my E-board for the sake of sionally, they were a dynamo of leaning and made themselves known to all our Chapter. My personal goal is to become something bigger than I ever at the Regional and International levels. I am proud of their accomplish- expected myself to become. I want to sharpen my leadership and commu- ments. These students put Alpha Eta Chi on the Phi Theta Kappa map and nication skills and make my Chapter and family proud. For my Chapter I cannot wait to see what they do next!” -Professor Jennifer Gasparino, goal I want to raise Phi Theta Kappa awareness and motivate students to Phi Theta Kappa Faculty Advisor better themselves by joining PTK. I truly am very humble for being chosen The Business Leadership Club provides community service On March 23rd and 24th, The ical and dental care to the poor with re- Business Leadership Club (BLC) partic- spect for the human dignity of each indi- ipated in providing community service vidual. Eva's Village aims to be a model assistance at Eva’s Village. Professor social service organization. It was great Khloud Kourani, Club Advisor, attended experience for business students and all with members of the Business Leadership members felt good about performing a Club of PCCC. community service and donating their The mission of Eva's Village is time to help others. For more information to feed the hungry, shelter the homeless, about BLC, contact Prof. Kourani at kk- treat the addicted and provide free med- [email protected] or 973-684-7643. Page 9 Panther News May 2016 Chanel 7’s Amy Freeze visits PCCC On Wednesday, March 30 the North- a TV weather reporter. ern New Jersey Bridges to the Baccalaureate After Amy found herself enjoying her alliance (NNJ-B2B), which is funded by the newly found position she returned to college, National Science Foundation, in collaboration first at several community colleges, then for with the STEM initiative team at Passaic Coun- a B.S. in Geosciences from Mississippi State ty Community College hosted Amy Freeze, University, with an emphasis on Severe Weath- Meteorologist for WABC-TV's Eyewitness er and Forecasting and then finally completing News as part of the college’s STEM Profession- her Master’s Degree in Environmental Scienc- al Lecture series. As a woman in STEM (March es from the University of Pennsylvania. Amy has been designated ‘Women in STEM’ month was one of the first20 women in the world in academic circles) Amy’s talk was compel- to receive a certificate from the prestigious ling to all, especially PCCC’s women studying American Meteorological Society as a certified STEM subjects such as Biology, Chemistry, broadcast meteorologist. ‘environmental sustainability’ and other natu- On the week end following her lecture at ral sciences. Amy offered to answer questions WABC-TV's Eyewitness News. Amy originally PCCC she gave a ‘shout out’ during her live TV on anything about her life including education, graduated from Brigham Young University with weather report on WABC-TV including pictures weather, family and even entertainment and a bachelor’s degree in communications. After taken with students and staff of Passaic County fashion; the last two being part of her life as a not finding a satisfying position writing news for Community College. An educational and inspir- television personality. Amy is seen by millions a newspaper, Amy settled for writing news for a ing time was had by all during the visit of Amy of viewers and adoring fans weekly. TV station. Through a chance sequence of events Freeze to the halls of Passaic County Commu- According to Amy, her career track was Amy found herself filling in as a “weather girl” nity College. Amy currently lives in Manhattan not conventional and did not follow a direct on KPTV inOregon. In those days an actual de- with her husband and four children. route to her current role as TV Meteorologist for gree in Meteorology was not a requirement to be And yes, "Freeze" is her real last name! PCCC Theater’s Six in One Play Festival Through the week of the 11th of April, PC- CC’s theater department performed their Theater Festival. Directed by PCCC’s own R.G Rader, and his assistant Directors, Markel Reid and Jason R. Rader- the show was performed several times over the course of the week.

Frat Life: Pledge or Not Pledge? (Continued on Page 7) However, some people did not like Greek Life as much as Marte does. Alicia Myers, a freshman at Wil- liam Paterson University and member of Book Club, Student Government Association, and Intramural Soccer, wanted to pledge for the same sorority. She heard about the sorority from a girl in her dorm build- ing who recommended the girls to pledge. She with- drew her pledge a few days into the pledging process. “I did not like the idea of having someone tell me what to do, no matter the task,” she said. “I want

Professor Naseem Choudhury, Psychology, (left) and Professor Jeremy Teigen, Political Science, (right) teach and mentor Ramapo College students. Ranked by U.S. News to make friends, but I could join another organization & World Report as one of the Best Regional like a Book Club. I do not need to do pointless things Universities North Learn in small classes. category for public to win over the attention of older students.” institutions. Succeed in big ways. Greek Life may not be for everyone. Movies give off Ranked as one of the “Best Bang-for-the- the persona of people being in sororities and fraterni- With an average class size of 23, and a student–faculty ratio of 18:1, Ramapo Buck Colleges in the College offers students an individualized learning experience. Our students Northeast” by ties to be wild parties and drinking. Washington Monthly. are able to build meaningful, close-working relationships with faculty In reality, being in a sorority or fraternity members through mentorship, collaboration, and research opportunities. Listed by Kiplinger’s as brings charity work and with parties. If you are not one of 100 Best Values in Each year more than 700 transfer students enroll at Ramapo College, Public Colleges. into the party scene, fraternities are not for you. If you continuing their studies in one of over 40 undergraduate majors. Discover how we prepare our students for a lifetime of success. want to get involved in community service, you might As a College of Distinction, Ramapo attracts and supports want to consider pledging. engaged students, Learn more at: great teaching, a If you do not like being social, maybe you www.ramapo.edu/transfer vibrant community and or 201-684-7300 successful outcomes. should stick to a Book Club or smaller organization.

505 Ramapo Valley Road, Mahwah, NJ If you like networking and meeting new people, try a fraternity. Page 10 Fear not Technology May 2016 Stay on Track with Summer Classes By Theresa Cisek Did you register for classes yet? As the many hours while simultaneously attending what Daphne Lin Chang, Student Development end of the spring semester approaches, if you classes. Because of this type of schedule, gradu- Specialist at Passaic County Community Col- have an e-mail address or a mailbox, this ques- ating in four years can become an impossibility. lege, counsels students to do during their sum- tion will find you for weeks to come and more Taking twelve credits per semester can lengthen mer break. thereafter. Everywhere you turn on campus there the student’s time in college by one extra year; Ms. Chang does not typically advise stu- are deadline notices and catch phrases toting the instead of graduating in four years, students may dents in either direction with regard to attend- benefits of attending summer session classes. graduate in five years. This situation sometimes ing summer classes. Her belief is that it is im- Register early and stay on track. beckons the student to play catch up by taking portant to understand how the students wish to Why do students take summer classes? Is summer classes. spend their summer months. If the student does it really to stay on track? Is staying on track the Classes can be difficult and, occasional- not want to attend classes, she encourages them only reason why a student should take a sum- ly, a student may have to drop a class or even to “build identity capital” during the summer mer class? And why don’t students take summer fail one. This may have happened because their break. She explained that, instead of not doing classes? schedule may have been too heavily weighted, anything in particular during the summer break, The journey through college is not a one not leaving enough time for a difficult subject, a student should seek ways or have a plan to do size fits all situation. There are many factors which maked it necessary for the student to re- or get involved in activities that will contrib- that determine how long the process will take for take the class. ute to collecting assets and self-investment and each individual student, and these factors will Rebecca Mink, age 25, is a Studio Arts growth. She believes that career and life success not only have an influence on the student’s de- major. Having had to drop a class during the depends on learning and becoming rather than cision of which courses to take, but also when to spring session, Mink will be repeating it this on deciding. take them. summer. She believes she will do better this time Of the students who were interviewed, A full-time college student takes four around because she will only have “one class to most felt summer classes were difficult to take. classes for each of the fall and spring semesters. focus on.” They indicated this was because of how con- Fifteen credits equals fifteen hours spent in class, College summer classes can be difficult densed the classes were. Bolt said she enjoyed and for each hour spent in class, a student can to take, and they require a serious informed com- the short semesters but felt that the fall classes expect to devote two to three hours for home- mitment. They are typically six weeks in length seemed to drag on compared to the summer ses- work assignments. That makes for a fairly heavy with classes meeting four to five times per week. sions. Chris Sudol, age 23, Humanities major, schedule and possibly a desire for a summer Assignments and testing can occur within days said he found it difficult to not have a break be- break between semesters. of each other, which means there is no room for tween the semesters, but, at the same time, the Laura Bolt, age 24 and a Liberal Arts/ a student to fall behind. PCCC’s first summer fall semester seemed to be less intense because Humanities major, is a full time student who is session begins ten days after the spring session he could lighten up on his course load. Most of determined to stay on schedule with her gradua- ends, not leaving a student much of a break be- the students also felt that the course selection tion. In addition to working a job over the sum- tween the two sessions. offered was limited to mostly general education mer, she will be taking a total of four summer Coral Koenig, age 18 and a Psychology classes. classes: two in the first session and two in the major, will not be attending any summer class- Whether taking summer classes because second session. Even though she is carrying a es. She has a part-time retail job and will not be of a low grade, to get more personalized instruc- heavy load, she has set her sights on finishing taking a vacation. She feels that school is “super tion because of the smaller class size, or to focus her degree and feels “she cannot afford to take a stressful” and welcomes a summer break. Koe- on a difficult course, in the end the extra effort break” between the semesters. nig will not be totally idle this summer, howev- put forth in the summer adds up to the student It’s not always possible, however, to be er, because she is in a color guard and teaches it staying on track with their educational goals. a full time student. A student may have to work gratis to students in high school. Koenig is doing

By Darwin Espinal Phones Every one of us has a phone. Wherever Making you go, there will be people to be reached Life by someone who probably Easier had some important news to get on or doing some kind of activity with their phones. It’s as if phones make to you. up our lives. Presently It’s funny how nearly 50 years ago everything was different. Not Phones today can basically do everything we need them to do. If everyone was able to have a cellphone. Of course there were people who anything, it’s like we’re carrying tiny computers inside our pockets, and had them but, if anything, most used to be wired house phones. that is very impressive. If you need to look up any kind of information or The cellphone was invented in 1973 by Martin Cooper, a Motorola if you need to see someone you miss, you can call them via FaceTime and researcher and executive. Back then probably only the wealthy were able you can see their faces. to afford cellphones, and, if anything, you were limited to where you could You can read your emails on your cell phone, listen to all kinds of make calls - since there probably weren’t that many antennas to keep ev- music, and even stream television. You can pretty much do everything you eryone connected. can do on your laptop on your phone which is more accessible if you're on It was harder to make calls outside of really populated areas such the bus or the train. as a city; and if you went up to the mountains, your cell phone was useless You don’t even need to buy cameras to take pictures at events now. since there was no signal. Your cell phone already has a pretty decent one. Then, after taking pictures, I, personally, still have that issue with my phone. Sometimes when you can share them with your friends and family instantly by uploading it I feel like going on an adventure to the mountains or beach, my phone to one of many of the apps people have access to on their phones. loses every bar it has and I can’t make any calls or vice versa. Cell phones can even tell us the weather and how the weather is But all of that started to change quickly. The cellphone kept evolving each going to be for the whole day. Also, if keeping up with news and stocks is year. And more and more people were able to get their hands on the cell- more of your thing, you can also keep up with that on your phone. phone. With all of those apps you have on your phone, everyday life be- At first there were no apps or anything to explore on the cell phone. comes easier. It can help you with your eating schedule, manage your time But surely cell phones kept advancing and in 1994 Nokia launched the first better, and assist you at the gym by telling you what to do on what days text messaging phone (dailymail.com). and such. That way you never miss out on a work out. People started sending text messages and it became a more conve- Eventually our phones will be able to do all imaginable. I, myself, nient way to communicate for a lot of people that couldn’t answer calls at find all these apps incredibly helpful. It’s a good feeling when you can times. wake up and instantly check the weather app to see how cold it is outside. So, the cell phone started making people’s lives easier and people became Looking back, it’s funny to would see cell phones and their abili- accessible at more places. No longer did people have to be home in order ties in futuristic movies; now all those things have become reality. Page 11 Fear not Technology/Vacations for Break May 2016 How to Build a Home Theater By Anthony Sanchez There are simple ways to build a home thing I need for right now to create an experi- price is to have quality standards. theater. First, find the right space to get comfort- ence. However, there are different – and easy able – this may be the living room, bedroom, On the front side, I hanged my TV by the - ways to buy a home theater. There are home basement, attic - anywhere around the house to wall and I have two pieces of furniture that are theater packages that come with a Blu-ray/DVD set up a home theater. placed by the cable box: video games, AV re- player, five speakers and a subwoofer for a low Second, have an AV receiver that con- ceiver, and three front speakers that are left, cen- price. There is also a sound bar that includes a nects cables directly to the TV. This may include ter, and right. I placed a subwoofer at the right subwoofer that costs an average of one-hundred speakers and a subwoofer that connects to the corner. and fifty dollars that is good beginners. All of AV receiver. On the back side, I put two tall chairs to these great products come with great sound. Last but not least, have furniture to place place two rear speakers that are right surround If there are any problems or issues with in your home theater system. For example, the and left surround sound to hear in the back of the the home theater products that you have bought, TV should always be on the top middle of a room. make sure it doesn’t do any damage such as stand, and the audio receiver should be near the My additional cables that I put in my blown out speakers or water damage. Always top or bottom of the furniture. AV receiver are High Definition Multi Interface take care of any equipment that was purchased The speakers should then be placed in (HDMI), which I prefer, because it gives a bet- and always hold on to the receipt before to have the right position on each side of the furniture; a ter picture quality and it brings component and money back guarantee. subwoofer should be placed on the floor by each composite cables from my receiver. That is how Overall, having a home theater is not corner because it gives amount of bass in that I set up my home theater. about creating your theater like from the theater, position. To have a great home theater experience, it is about having a great sound that will enhance In 2014, I setup my home theater from the budget has to be balanced that makes a good movies, music, sports and video games to pro- scratch in my bedroom. I would not have mind deal. It cannot be too expensive or cheap. The mote a fully immersive experience to the home. building a fancy theater room, but I have every- only thing to have a home theater for a good

TheBy Jesus Vega Positives of Video Game Video games can benefit you in many helping me go faster in testing situations while I found that video games help a lot when different ways. They can improve memory, hand still attaining a high grade. you have stress. I believe that video game help eye coordination, reflexes, reading, and encour- Games like Call of Duty increase my with stress by taking out your anger in a fight- age physical activity. hand eye coordination and reflexes. Call of Duty ing game. They can also help you calm down Games like Tetris improves memory be- is a first person shooting game and it requires by playing some rhythm game that doesn’t take cause, to get better in the game, I have to put the faster reflexes and hand eye coordination, sim- much work to do while you are listening to nice shapes in the right spot which requires memoriz- ilar to sports. I was able to catch and aim better music. ing the different type of patterns. In the Legend when I threw and played sports. I learn that I had to plan ahead, manage of Zelda, there are a variety of different puzzles Games like Pokémon and Final Fantasy my resources, and make decisions; I would have that require a lot of logical thinking to solve help me read better. This increased my reading to plan the best way to use my resources. I learn them. For example, in Legend of Zelda Ocarina comprehension. In games like Pokémon and Fi- this from playing game like SimCity. of Time there are time limits to solve the puzzle. nal Fantasy, I have to interact with characters to Taking risks in games helps encourage The faster I solve the puzzle the better equip- explore others in the game as well as learn use- bravery. Hard games like Dark Soul give me ment and money I am rewarded with in the ful knowledge of the game world. I find myself determination to keep going on with what I’m game. This encourages me to critically think. using contact clues to understand words that I do doing; I will fail many times in the game but I’ll Critical thinking is used in real life to solve math not know in the game. Difficult words improve keep trying over and over again till I get it right. problems in school, and make better life deci- my vocabulary. In the game, the monsters are hard and you will sions. Games help improve my memory and multitask. most likely lose the game, but at the same time Following instructions in the game will I was able to memorize faster and multitask a lot you want to keep trying till you beat it. help me do better with word problems. It also faster. When you keep getting challenged from helps me think faster when I try to problem Video games encourage physical activity a game, it will help you rethink what you did and solve. I also believe it helped me a lot when I - I lost 10 lbs. play game like Dance Dance Rev- encourage you to try over and over again. Here was younger not having to work so hard in math, olution. It was a fun way to lost weight without you can beat the boss without losing your health learning to work a lot faster than others, and it feeling like a lot of work. or mind over it. Staying active: Making an appointment with yourself By Gemima Pierre-Louis A gym membership is envi- you break a sweat. around the block. Then increase lunch to just walk at whatever pace able but not a must to stay in shape Some gardening is also an your speed to two blocks and so on. convenient to them, especially after or active. There are practical and effective and cost effective way to If someone thinks that they must they have eaten. This is so lunch budget friendly ways to keep active stay active. Maintaining the garden start by walking or running five does not just sit in the stomach. that are also time saving. The pos- has a lot of exercises such as wa- miles, he/she is setting themself up They can also feel less heavy after sibilities are endless. tering the plants, picking up weeds for failure. It would be war lost be- the power walk. Perhaps using an elevator and debris, planting plants and fore it even begins. Don’t just do one type of could be considered as a last re- walking back and forth. These ac- Park the car a little further exercise; every time do a differ- sort. So, walk the stairs instead of tivities work the upper extremities to walk to a destination if driving, ent exercise. A mix of exercises riding the elevator. Of course, this and the lower one simultaneously. or get off at the bus stop earlier are recommended to be beneficial. will take some getting used to, but Heavy gardening contributes to than the destination. These are oth- Even if it meant changing the pace this is a great cardio exercise and a muscle and bones strength. er small forms of exercise. Think from time to time. good range of motion, which is not As a nurse, I am very inven- inventively/creatively. Practice Lift up one leg while hold- easily given up once started. For an tive at finding ways to stay active. makes perfect. ing your hands crossed and above extra challenge with this exercise, Although I have a gym member- Gradual increase motion the head, alternating limbs. try carrying some weights or loads ship, I choose to walk briskly and prevents muscle injury. Aim to get Make it a point to exercise such as groceries. run to the gym, which is fifteen the heart rate up higher on a session daily, even if it means that you have Furthermore, performing minutes by car, for one hour and base - a twenty minute session ev- to add it to your daily “to do list.” household chores is a calorie burn- ten minutes - instead of the tread- ery other day or daily - to reach the Find someone to partner up with. er. Scrubbing the bathtub, sweep- mill which, I think, traumatizes my ultimate goal. Remember: Misery loves company. ing and mopping the floor, wiping knees. It only takes the first day, I call it from experience That is a good way to be motivated the kitchen table, fixing the bed and then I am good to go. “Power lunch”: when someone and not miss it. moving the furniture around makes Start slow by walking takes at least ten minutes off their (Continued on page 15) Page 12 Vacations for Break May 2016

By Noah ChamberlainCheap Beach Alternative Once the semester is finally over, stu- ourselves. dents are overwhelmed with freedom and have I went another time last summer around more time to do things. When you have pay August, trying to recreate the good time I had the around $100 per night for a hotel, it’s hard to first time. Last August, Assateague was overrun find cheap alternatives for vacations. My trip to with other people and the beach was so crowded Assateague Island last summer was my favorite there was no campsites left. vacation I’ve taken, and I only spent about $150. The ideal time to go to Assateague Is- If you’re looking for a fun and uncon- land is as soon as you get a few free days off. ventional vacation, Assateague Island is your Check the weather, find a couple of nice days, destination. At a bargain cost, there’s barely any get a group of friends together, and you’re on buildings on the whole island and you are free your way. to camp with miles and miles of beach at your What I enjoy most about Assateague Is- disposal. land is that once you are on the island, there’s no- When I think of vacation, one of the first Assateague Island 2015 where to buy anything. It’s easy to get caught up things I think of is going to the ocean. The lei- in the Jersey Shore boardwalks and end up losing sure of being able to sit on the sand without a your money way quicker than you anticipated. care or responsibility in the world is the epitome The idea of spending all of your money of vacation. If you’re trying to go to the beach, before your vacation is over isn’t at Assateague the Jersey Shore might not be your best bet. Island. You can drive 20 minutes and spend all The Jersey coastline is definitely a beau- your money on the Ocean City Boardwalk, but tiful area, but the beaches are crowded and most that idea didn’t appeal to me and my friends be- of the time you have to pay just to get on the cause we were having a better time on the beach. beach. Without prior knowledge to where to One of the interesting features of As- good beaches are located, the average tourist sateague is that they’re wild horses on the beach. would end up paying just to get on a crowded No joke, there are hundreds if not thousands beach for a couple of hours. of horses that just roam the miles and miles of About 4 hours south is Ocean City, Mary- beach. land. Ocean City is very similar, if not identical, At first I was kind of overwhelmed from to the Jersey Shore, and twenty minutes away all the horses, but they are very docile and calm from Ocean City is Assateague Island. Sunset on the bay, 2015 animals. I don’t even think I saw one run the On Assateague Island, you can pay $6 a whole time I was there, they just live lives of lei- day for camp fees to have access to miles and sure, strolling down the beach without thinking miles of the Atlantic Ocean. That $6 also allows twice when they see humans. you to sleep on the beach and gives access to If you’re trying to get away for a couple showers; Compared to paying $100 per night in days and your wallet is tight, take it easy and seaside. If you’re willing to sleep on the beach, head down to Assateague for some relaxing days it’s a great alternative. on the beach. There’s nothing like enjoying the Being able to wake up and walk two min- fruits of your labor after a long semester of col- utes down to the ocean was great. My trip was lege. blessed with good weather every day, so every day was filled with positivity. I went last year a week after school got Photos Courtesy of out. Since it was in May, the beaches were almost Noah Chamberlain empty and we had miles and miles of beach to Fire on the Island 2015 Something for Everyone - Summer Reading By Devin Frasche William Styron, an award winning nov- the murder of his best friend, and then sent to a this sadistic man’s life and his taste for murder. elist, once said, “A great book should leave you maximum security juvenile prison, The Furnace. Being that the book is non –fiction, much with many experiences, and slightly exhausted at The Furnace is ruled by ruthless gangs, maniacal of this story is about the construction and hard- the end. You live several lives while reading.” prison guards, and beasts that are the framework ships faced when trying to provide the world with As an English major and life-long lover of nightmares. Alex has only a few choices, kill, an exceptional World Fair. The narration changes of the literary arts, I have read hundreds of books be killed, or escape. with each chapter, focusing on the construction with varying genres in my short 22 years. I am Escape from furnace is a riveting nov- of the fair, and then focusing on Holmes. I found a firm believer in the magic of books and what el that is very easy to read and doesn’t hold as the overwhelming amount of in-depth detail re- they can do for the reader. For the little time that much between-the-lines reading as many other garding to the fair’s construction out-weighed is spent between the pages, the reader is reverted novels. For those that are just trying to start a the information on Holmes. back to the wonderment of a child, while living new series and read an interesting thriller, this The fair chapters were longer and less vicariously through the lives of humanized char- is where you should go. This book is considered exciting, but the Holmes chapters were full of acters. a young adult novel but don’t let that turn you expense and darkness. If you are a history buff The ability to escape from one’s trouble- away. This book is not one of those young adult and interested in learning more about the inner some life filled with work deadlines, past-due novels that is juvenile, or uses remedial English workings of a narcissistic sadist’s psyche, then school assignments, and other stressors life be- to tell a story lacking imagination. give this book a try. A film for this movie is ru- stows on each of us, is imperative to a healthy Non Fiction: mored to come out soon as well. life. Even if that escape is only for a few hours a The Devil in the White City: A Saga of Magic Crime: week, everyone needs a break from reality once and Murder at the Fair that Changed America Hope to Die by James Paterson in a while. Here are few suggestions to take you by Erik Lawson Stars: ***** out of life and submerged into literary fantasy. Stars: *** Yes, I actually gave this the full five stars and I’ll Young Adult: “The Devil in the White City,” is not something tell you why. This was the very first James Pat- Escape from Furnace by Alexander Gordon I would recommend to everyone, and that is why erson book I was so lucky to stumble upon. This Smith I only gave it three stars. It is an intriguing docu- book is excellent for not only the devout book- Stars: **** mentation of America’s first held World Fair, and worm and the crime genre fanatic, but also for “Escape from Furnace,” takes place in a dysto- the first known American serial killer that terror- people that want to start reading and have trouble pian future Europe; following the life of a young ized it. H. H. Holmes was the reason I first pur- finding something to burglar named Alex Sawyer. Alex is set up for chased this book as I was curious to know about spark their interest. (Continued on page 16) Page 13 Vacations for Break/Beauty+ May 2016

TheBy Hampton SquareHumber Mile- London, England As someone who enjoys traveling, meet- entered; you are treated to the Great Hall itself. ing new people and experiencing different cul- The set is enormous with the tables lined up all tures, for the longest time I’ve only traveled the the way down. countryside. I visited multiple states and cities The rest of the tour is a “who, who” of like New York, Boston, Massachusetts, Arizona, Harry Potter props, sets, costumes, and other San Francisco, California, Florida, and countless memorabilia. Most of the sets and costumes are more. These places were all fun and wonderful the original ones; the actors and actress walked in their own special way, but nothing beats leav- through and acted in. You go room to room ing the country the first time and seeing a vastly walking through different sets and even get the different culture firsthand. In the spring of 2013, chance to walk in their studio lot and enjoy a but- I did just that; I went to London, England. ter beer, which is delicious by the way. It all ends Now I will be lying a little to say that with a huge miniature model of Hogwarts itself London, England is vastly different from the Source: Spring 2013, ending an amazing and truly magical tour. United States. If one looks at history and even Big Ben- Hampton Humber The Making of Harry Potter: Warner now it is clear that we share a lot of things cul- Bros’ Studio Tour is located in Leavesden, Unit- down. The entire city glows in warm, humid turally with England, from the way we build and ed Kingdom. The tickets are £35.00 for adults, lights that symbolizes slowing down, taking a architect our cities to the names we give to cer- £27.00 for children, and free for kids under four. break and going to sleep. tain states or areas. So when I went to London There was also a gift shop right in the main en- The City of London wasn’t the only place with my mom, there was some familiarity, but trance to buy wands, robes, and other Harry Pot- I visited. For the longest time I’ve been a huge there were also numerous new things to see and ter things. The prices are a bit expensive, espe- fan of England’s media. I’m a constant viewer of experience. cially if more than one person is coming along, BBC America watching shows like Doctor Who When we arrived to the city we had a but it is worth the price for any Harry Potter fan. and Sherlock, and I’m also the biggest Potter week to see everything. We stayed in a beautiful London, England is a beautiful city full head – I own two different sets of JK Rowling’ Marriot Hotel right in the middle of the city. From of history. The people there are nice, helpful, and famous books and a complete set of all the Harry my room I could see the famous London Eye, very kind and there are so many things to see and Potter films on Blue Ray. So, you must under- which is the world’s biggest Ferris wheel; Tow- experience. It was my first taste of life outside of stand it was a dream for someone like me to visit er of London, which holds the famous crowned the United States and, for anyone who is leaving the studio where the Harry Potter movies were jewels; and of course the Palace of Westminster the country for the first time, London is a great made. where the iconic Big Ben stands proudly. first stop. When you first walk up to the studio, the When we walked around we visited first thing you see is a life size replica of the wiz- multiple famous landmarks like the London Eye ard chest pieces in Harry Potter and the Sorcer- and Big Ben. You don’t really notice how tall ers’ Stone. When you walk in, you’re surround- and wide the London Eye is until you walk up to ed by huge posters that captured different scenes it. It was truly a behemoth of an attraction. When and characters from all seven movies. Before I rode in it, it took a whooping thirty minutes for going inside the recording area, you are treated a full revolution so it gave plenty of time to take to a mini movie narrated by Daniel Radcliff, the some amazing pictures when at the top. actor who played Harry Potter, where he get ev- We weren’t able to go inside the Pal- eryone a little hyped before entering the studio. ace of Westminster where Big Ben presides, Source: Spring 2013,Warner Bros. Studio- but it was truly a beautiful building looking - Hampton Humber even more stunning at night. It gave off a sort In keeping up with the theme of magic, of warm, prideful feeling while looking at and when the movie ends the screens lifts up reveal- it kind of reminded me of the New York City’s ing a huge, tall door. The door itself is the same sky line at night. Actually, all of London looks door used in order to enter the Great Hall in very beautiful and warm when the sun goes Source: Spring 2013, London Eye- the movies and, just like the movie when you Hampton Humber Why Pay Full Price? When You Can Pay Less? By Mellanice McFarlane There is always a reason out breaking the bank. Couponing can be another way to reduce cost. easier for customer to save. to shop. It is embedded in most of will help you save money, and still Some retailers advertise discounts Using coupons is a huge us to shop all the time. Summer, buy the things we want. Having online that can printed and brought advantage in shopping, and saving winter, spring, fall, back to school coupons will help save money and into their locations. money. shopping, or to even shop for a spe- boost confidence knowing that you Applying for store credit Over the past 3 years, I began cou- cial occasion; we live in a world were able to get a great deal. cards is one tactic that retailers use poning once I moved out of my that asks us to shop on a daily basis. The best way to help or to get revolving business as well. It parent’s house. I realized the mon- Shopping is no longer done hurt a business is to communicate does work, but you have to be care- ey that I was spending to shop was just because someone may need to others through word of mouth ful to only purchase what can be affecting the bills that I had to pay something. Shopping is now done about one’s experience. A person’s paid off once the bill comes. Hav- at home. I knew there was a bet- as a form of therapy too. We can- personal experience being told to ing a store card can sometimes take ter way, but was not sure what that not escape the desire, or the need to others makes people listen. The im- additional discounts off, and can be could be. shop, but we can shop in a way that pact is much greater than reading combined with store coupons. When I went to a retailer is best for our budget and for our something anonymously written The society we live in loves to shop the cashier upon check out hearts. online. to hear feedback about their compa- asked me if I would like to sign up Whether you are shopping Most people decline to of- nies’ performance. If you ever take to join their mailing list. I decided for clothes, jewelry, shoes, food or fer their information but shouldn’t. the time out to look on the bottom to join the list, and began receiving a gift for someone else, the prices Once signed up for the mailing list, of your receipts you will notice a coupons within weeks. The cou- for shopping all add up. Learning the retailer will send any updates survey. Most retailers will offer a pons were taking 15% off on certain how to shop while you’re in college the store may have. The updates coupons, or a free item once the items and an additional 25% off if I is a skill that must be learned and could be coupons, a blowout sale, time is taken out to fill out the sur- spent $100.00 or more. valued. or a happy birthday voucher. vey. I was beginning to notice that I was It is important to create a Occasionally the happy For those consumers who saving money on my transactions, budget and prioritize all monthly birthday vouchers will allow the may not want to have their personal and still able to buy the items that I expenses that have to be paid. As customer to have something for information listed into the retailer’s wanted. Joining one retailer’s mail- college students we have to take ad- free. Free stuff can satisfy some database there are still other op- ing list intrigued me to join sever- vantage of any discounts that are of- people’s desires to shop. tions. Newspaper magazines have al others every time that I went to fered because shopping can be fun, Signing up in the store is coupons, and other discounts too. shop. but also costly. just one of serval steps that can be Every week, newspapers have deals Don’t just take my word and experi- There are tons of ways to get taken to reduce the price that is paid inside that can be redeemed online ence. Go out this summer and save, the latest trends this summer with- when shopping. Searching online or in store. Retailers are making it save, save. Page 14 Beauty+/Visual & Literary Arts May 2016 Top Beauty/Fashion Personalities on YouTube & Instagram By Lismery Luna Many people enjoy using YouTube as a form to learn, entertain, catch up on popular Make-Up trends or watch another person’s life, every day. Nicole Guerriero is a funny, I am one of those people. I’ve been watching free-spirited beauty personality with videos on YouTube since 2010, starting with the a knack for costume makeup. Nicole beauty/fashion community. What I didn’t know Guerriero does a little bit of everything: was that the beauty community would grow into makeup, skincare, hair, fashion, you something bigger than itself. Overtime, I’ve name it. Basically her channel is like moved on to other forms of videos and catego- everything is the kitchen sink in a great ries but lately, the beauty category has pulled me way. However, Nicole has another side, back in. which is shown through her vlogs or as Source: Instagram.com So now, there are many gurus who spe- she refers them “Car Ride Chronicles” cialized in different forms of beauty: fashion, where she shows a little bit of every- community on YouTube; fashion has become a makeup, hair, skincare, fitness, style or all of the thing she does in her life for a week or two. forefront on YouTube as well. Claire Marshall, above. Before, the beauty community on You- Most people would love Nicole for her Samantha Maria, Jenn Im, and Raye Boyce are Tube was smaller than currently, with many of makeup skills and fashion sense, but also be- some of the many personalities in YouTube fash- the term “Beauty Gurus” have made their suc- cause she shows you how normal her life is. Ni- ion. Each has their own sense of style. Some mix cess and careers off their channels. cole is also known for her Halloween series she classic pieces with a funky accents or use ma- Most of the big name personalities have started in 2011, where she puts her talented skills jor trends and accommodates them, according a little over 2 million subscribers, with followers to create crazy and incredible characters. to their personal taste or preference. As well as learning the tips and tricks of the trade. Some Instagram has also become a popu- fashion, these people do the traditional beauty have gone on to making their own beauty and lar place to follow makeup artists and make- only videos here and there. hair tools line like Nicole Guerriero, their make- up brands in order to keep up with the popular Raye Boyce - or ItsmyRayeRaye - have their up line like MakeupbyAnna, founder of Dose trends of today. own collaborations with makeup brands, hers of Colors. Also, some have written books like Anna, the founder of the popular and being with ColourPop. But most of their fash- Dulce Candy and Zoella. rising brand Dose of Colors, has a variety and ion sense and style can also be seen on their In- But overall, these people are the power- range of photos from selfies showing off lip col- stagram, especially Samantha Maria, who posts houses of the beauty community on YouTube/In- ors she’s wearing, new products that she loves, new outfits photographed around London, on her stagram, and many starters of their own channels makeup tools such as brushes she designed, and own blog as well. and makeup beginners look to them for all things announcements of new lip colors to buy or get People should follow these women be- beauty related. Here are the channels and Insta- inspiration for your own makeup. Anna is great cause each person can teach you a different as- gram pages people interested in Beauty should to follow if you want to learn more about Dose pect of personal style, and they may be able to subscribe/follow. of Colors from a personal account and get to bring you out of your comfort zone to try new Hair know other people in the beauty industry and things, style and fashion wise. Andrea Brooks, or AndreasChoice, is the learn how to do eye/face makeup. Finally, Francheska - HeyFranHey - on queen of DIY videos and hair tutorials. With her Katina K is a freelance makeup artist Youtube is one channel I recently discovered. sense of humor and practicality, it’s one of the from Melbourne Australia with an extraordinary Her video consists of using organic remedies to reasons why she has 3,854,363 subscribers. talent for eye and face makeup. Katina experi- cure common ailments, using organic products Her channel has a wide range of videos ments with all colors in different ways and shows for anxiety and stress, and is an advocate for us- for all types of people. If you want to learn how you how to use colors that may never go together ing natural products for your hair. to do a dark lip, it’s there! If you want to learn to create an incredible look with a genius twist Francheska looks at beauty organical- how make your own high waisted shorts, An- that’s never been done. ly and tries to use as many natural and organic dreasChoice has you covered! AndreasChoice People would learn how Katina K does beauty products on her hair, skin, and body. uses everyday products/tools to create easy hair- her eye/face makeup since she posts what prod- Nevertheless, Beauty and Fashion are at styles for the women on the go. AndreasChoice ucts she uses and they learn how to create differ- a rise on YouTube and will continue to rise with is a great channel to subscribe to if you wants to ent looks for different things or get inspired to the next generation wanting to know and learn learn how to make your own products without create similar works. how to do makeup better, expand their fashion breaking the bank and have a few laughs along Fashion sense, and learn how to take care of their skin in significant ways. the way. But beauty is not only the expanding Lego Movie Review By Darian Dominguez One of my fondest memories of my follow the rules and instructions. He lives in a childhood are Legos. I grew up playing video town of Bricksburg that is run by President Busi- game adaptions of these toy bricks. However, ness, aka Lord Business. never did I ever imagine to see the world’s fa- Eventually, Emmet stumbled upon the mous toy line go up on the big silver screen. “piece of resistance” after following the mys- Source: hbowatch.com “The Lego Movie,” directed by Phil terious figure. When he comes in contact with sen one. Lord and Christopher Miller, starts off with a “piece of resistance”, he becomes knocked out. Then Emmet reluctantly joins her on conflict between sage Vitruvius, voiced by Mor- Moments later he wakes up and realizes that he an adventure to find the Kragle and stop the gan Freeman, and the evil Lord Business, voiced is being held captive with the “piece of resis- evil Lord Business from destroying all of Lego by Will Ferrell. Lord Business approaches the tance” on his back. He’s being accused by Good world. Through this, Emmet meets new friends mystical Kragle, the key to his diabolical plan; Cop/Bad Cop, voiced by Liam Neeson, for con- and finds out what it means to think outside the this motivates Vitruvius to start duking him out spiring against Lord Business. rules. to stop to him from getting the Kragle. When Emmet couldn’t comply, Good The story presented itself in a very unique Ultimately the fight ends with Vitruvi- Cop/Bad Cop tries to torture him until the mys- art style. Everything is animated in CGI, but the us failing to stop him. As Lord Business leaves terious figure shows up and saves him from his animators went out of their way to emulate the the facility, Vitruvius tells him a prophecy that a doom. The figure reveals herself to be -Wyld feeling of a stop motion film. chosen one will rise and will stop him, ending his Style, played by Elizabeth Banks, a ninja-like Every movement in the film seems chop- reign of tyranny with the “piece of resistance.” master builder who is searching for the “piece pier than one would be used to in other animated Years later, we meet the protagonist of resistance” too. She tells him that she believes CGI movies. The textures in all the characters named Emmet, voiced by Chris Pratt, who is an the piece that is stuck on his back signifies that and set pieces em- ordinary Lego construction worker who always he is the “The Special” and the prophesized cho- ulate the look and (Continued on page 15) Page 15 Visual & Literary Arts/Opinion May 2016 5 Great Movies You Probably Haven’t Seen By Jordan Chase I’m an avid movie watcher. I love movies and I love good movies. more. I found that this movie’s strength was in creating realistic char- However, the movie industry can be unfair and often glosses over films acters that were flawed, some of them aren’t even likable, but the viewer that weren’t produced by certain people or companies. There are fantastic still finds themselves sympathizing with them. It deals with topics like: films out there just waiting to be watched and chances are you probably prostitution, suicide (and the impact it has on others), and unsurprisingly) haven’t heard of them. Here are a few movies that I’ve detachment. I saw this movie on Netflix about a year seen and highly recommend: ago and highly recommend it for fans of both drama and 1. It’s Such a Beautiful Day cinematography. This surreal film is directed, written, and animated by 4. The Bay Don Hertzfeldt. The story follows a stick figure charac- This horror movie, directed by Barry Levinson, ter named Bill, and it takes the viewer on a surreal philo- manages to make the found footage genre scary again. sophical journey using nothing more than stock footage The movie is made of leaked government footage and it and simple animations. As someone who likes surreal, is told by a reporter who experienced the incident first dark comedies, this movie was perfect. I can’t say much hand. It almost reads like a documentary. The reason more because there really aren’t words to do this movie this movie is scary is because the premise is somewhat justice. You can find this movie streaming on Netflix so, believable. There aren’t many jump scares but this mov- the next time you have an hour to kill, why not give it a ie more than makes up for that with an incredible amount watch. of body horror. I don’t want to spoil anything but let’s 2. Dope just say after watching it you might not be drinking tap Directed by Rick Famuyiwa, Dope is a crime water anytime soon. It is available to watch online and movie and comedy rolled into one. This movie was very easy to find with a quick Google search. shown at the Sundance film festival and released to the- 5. Blackfish aters in 2015; however, despite doing fairly well in the box office, many A documentary directed by Gabriela Cowperthwaite that is more people I’ve spoken to haven’t even heard of it. The acting is fantastic, the frightening than most horror movies, Blackfish discusses whether or not comedic timing is perfect, and the plot is unique. Also, the score is pretty it is ethical to keep orca whales in captivity by following the violent story great, which is a bonus. I don’t want to spoil the plot but if you’re looking of one whale, Tilikum. It is likely this is the most known movie on the for a crime film that subverts the genre’s usual tropes, I highly recommend list, however I’m still recommending it because if you haven’t seen it you this film. This movie is available on Netflix instant - but I’m not sure for should. It is heartbreaking, shocking, and informative. Even if documen- how long so I’d watch it before it’s too late. taries aren’t your cup of tea, this movie is worth the watch and you’ll find 3. Detachment yourself engaged in spite of your genre preferences. It is streaming on This drama about the American education system directed by Tony Netflix, but be warned this isn’t a movie to watch right before a party. Kaye focuses on one substitute teacher, Henry Barthes, played by Adrien Brody. While the story itself doesn’t sound that remarkable, the way the film is made, along with the acting, elevates this movie into something Staying active: Making an appointment with yourself (Continued from page 11) Set up realistic goals and track progress. Individual goals is how beneficial it is at all levels when individualized. vary from one person to the next one. One size does not A good diet also contributes to staying active. fit all in everything. That is positive reinforcement. Fade diet drains the energy from everyone following To be active, one must wear proper clothing. A them and is a disaster to the body as opposed to a bal- pair of sneakers facilitates walking or jogging; heels are anced diet. off the list; jeans is a no. The body does not starve for food or energy. Even though business meeting attire is not usually Then staying active would be viewed better than a chore recommended, a pair of sneakers can help if the clothing and it will be fun to do. I call it “Me time or an appoint- is not too tight. ment with myself.” Staying active benefits people with debilitating The next time you think of staying active look Image from: www.northwichtherapies.co.uk Image diseases such as diabetes by helping the body manage for ways that foster that. the insulin better. People with hypertension find out that exercises lowers their blood pressure naturally. Some re- searches call exercises/staying active “the magic pill” that Lego Movie Review “Did a professor ever (Continued from page 14) feel of versation starter for any family. cut you a break?” the real toy very well; right down to the However, this movie does have The Story of the Absentee Students stiff movement and motion of the fig- its fair share of issues during the story. By Kevin A. Leiva Who Seek Redemption ures arm and legs. Some scenes in the film felt too I know I haven’t been to class in eight weeks, but I’d re- Despite the marginally serious fast paced. While the action scenes were ally like to pass this class!” plot, the film still throws visual gags for great, I felt the movie could have bene- Bewildered, Dr. Redman-Waldeyer, a PCCC English the children to enjoy while the parents fited from slower scenes like the char- professor and Vision’s own Advisor, shares the quotes of former can sit through and enjoy the handful of acter development between Emmett and desperate souls, bent on making it out of the class they never pop culture references of various Lego WildStyle felt rushed - especially how went to. toy lines like the appearance of “1980’s fast the romance between them came Dr. Waldeyer’s tale is not unique. Many professors have Space Man,” “Star Wars,” “TMNT,” into play. very similar stories. Students who enroll in a class, and then fall “Justice League,” and Batman. The choppier animation may not off the face of the earth, that is until they realize their tuition All the voice actors did a nice be everyone’s cup of tea. Some children money is at stake. Then they all become gold medalist runners- performance with the characters. Chris or adults would prefer more buttery sprinting from office to office; begging for a break. Pratt portrays a reluctant yet out going smooth movement. Many students have plenty of excuses- some of them protagonist quite adequately. Will Ar- The twist towards the end of the even valid ones! The fact is when we enroll in school- we make nett did a nice parody of the “dark and film could have been refined in its con- a commitment to attend our classes. Professors are committed to brooding” Batman. I’m pretty sure any- cept in the context of the films own uni- teaching the curriculum. If we as students don’t hold up our end- one could get a kick out Morgan Free- verse. how can professors hold up theirs? man’s voice on Vitruvius. Otherwise, this is a very compe- Like it or not- the best way to avoid the very messy situ- The story also provides themes tent family film that went above and be- ation of throwing yourself at your professor’s mercy is to attend and lessons like “try to be yourself,” “try yond a commercial or “cash grab” that regularly and put an effort in your own education. to think outside the box,” and “sharing anyone of all ages can enjoy - even if Has a professor ever cut YOU a break? Join the conver- is caring” which would be a nice con- you’re not a heavy Lego customer. sation at [email protected]. Page 16 Visual & Literary Arts/Opinion May 2016 Marvel vs. DC: The Need for Hope By Royce De Leon Everyone dreams of being superhero, es, battling someone who is literally occupying lose hope is not lost because of the narration of having superpowers, fighting bad guys, saving wall-street. As society’s problems and hardships the story by Deadpool. With multiple fourth wall someone’s life, all while juggling own person- change, the comic book and film industry adapt- breaks, he seems to talk directly to the audience al life. Yet, none of us have superpowers; so ed as well. including us not only in the high moments but in we settle for the next best thing, watching them The rebooting of these franchises al- also the lowest. on the big screen and seeing these modern day lowed for a new message of hope to be given However, Batman V. Superman takes the Gods tackle the problems we wished we had the by our superheroes. In a world with terroristic opposite approach with its superheroes being in strength and courage to do. threats, economic collapses, climate change, and a darker setting. An older, more serious version Whether it’s seeing heroes stop a mug- cancer, superheroes continue to fight back. of Bruce Wayne/Batman is forced to come to ging, overcome a family death, a bank robbery This hope that we yearn to create is a ri- terms with what he views as the destructive force or even save a cat from a tree; Superman, Bat- valry to the company to give us that hope, and of Superman, which has caused many human ca- man, Spiderman and countless others gave peo- take our money blindly. This need for hope has sualties. ple the hope they needed. We saw them as the fueled this rivalry and causes a show down be- Newly introduced to the world, Super- ultimate form of the law, the ultimate police or tween the two in theaters with recent releases. man must deal with the government and his dis- fireman, doing their part not for glory but rather Majority of the superheroes we all know have approval of the cruel methods of an older Bat- out of responsibility. come from two companies: Marvel Comics and man. Yet, due to a common enemy, they are able Being a movie fanatic, I have had the op- DC Comics. to set their differences aside and work together. portunity of watching all these heroes and oth- Marvel’s Deadpool and DC’s Batman V. The film portrays the hope that even op- ers, in action, on the big screen for the past 20 Superman both attract the world audience with a posing opinions can come together to do good years. Although my time watching these films is message of hope and each movie grossed close and save lives. perhaps a quarter of the time that they have been to $800 million worldwide. The battles these heroes face metaphori- around. Both films inspired hope, albeit in their cally and literally stand for those we all face in Superhero films have existed since the own way. Deadpool taking the more comedic our everyday lives - whether it be a family mem- beginning of the film industry in the 1940s. One route while Batman V. Superman took the dark ber diagnosed with cancer, the destructive forces might question: why is it they seem to be in con- and serious approach. of corporations too big to fail, or police brutal- trol of the box office? With approximately 30 su- Marvel finds the comedic way to give ity. Much like the world now and its opposing perhero films in the last 6 years, and 5 more films hope by using the origin story for the anti-hero views, these characters came together to work on being released this year, what else can they give commonly known as Deadpool. The film begins things; so why can’t we? us? with the introduction of Wade Wilson, a gun Although our need for heroes has fu- The battles that superheroes fight have for hire, who meets the girl of his dreams and eled an industry that is in a constant battle, with changed and evolved in order to answer that seems to have everything going for him. Disaster Marvel set to release 3 more films this year and question. Instead of dealing with a team of su- strikes when he is diagnosed with terminal skin DC one more, the need for hope is that these per-villains, we see Marvel’s Avengers dealing cancer and does not want his significant other to hero supplements are invaluable. “Superman with the destruction of New York City by foreign have to deal with that. What follows is a hilari- was never real. Just the dream of a farmer from terrorist, an image that many had seen first-hand ous story of redemption and having the hope to Kansas. ‘That farmer's dream is all some people during the 9/11 attacks. hold on even when faced with death. have. It's all that gives them hope.’” (Batman v. Rather than Batman simply stopping a The film was given an R rating for vio- Superman) mugging, we see him, in DC’s Dark Knight Ris- lence, profanity and sex. But the message to not Something for Everyone - Summer Reading (Continued from page 12) This novel is fast paced, action packed, of this novel because it is in the mind of a five- wise cracking, botanist and mechanical engineer and makes references to several nearby land- year-old. I soon was amazed by the writing abil- Mark Watney, is ingenious; however, here lies marks. I found myself rarely putting the book ity of this author in being able to portray Jack’s my one main issue with this book. down but when I did, I would wonder what was blissful ignorance and innocence, while still let- Watney takes everything that happens to going to happen next. ting the reader know what is actually going on. him on his Mars mission way too lightly. His re- This book is well written, and tells the story of Due to the tone this style of writing is able to actions to the constant life threatening dangers the lovable Alex Cross searching to find his kid- achieve, I would consider this book a psycholog- that Mars holds is almost always a corny joke or napped family. Even if you haven’t read any of ical thriller. solved by some Macgyver-like quick thinking. the Alex Cross books, I still strongly suggest This is an amazing book to read, reread, The story also requires the reader to remember anyone to pick up this book. and read again. I have suggested this book to past little projects Watney completes using dif- Fiction: many people and all of them have loved it as ferent finite materials. Room by Emma Donoghue dearly as I do. This is another novel that has a Even considering the lack of verisimil- Stars: ****.5 film adaptation, but I haven’t seen it yet, in fear itude in the novel, it still makes for a fun and “Room” is, hands down, one of my favorite nov- of being disappointed. worthwhile read that I would recommend if you els. It is narrated by five-year-old Jack, who of Sci-Fi: have a scientific mind. A movie was recently which knows nothing other than what his mother The Martian by Andy Weir made by the same title that visually tells the tale has taught him, and the inside of their room. The Stars: ***.5 of this novel. The producers decided to take out two are held captive in a sound proofed shed, This book is truly meant for all of my fellow a good portion of all of the wise-cracking and kept secret by Jack’s mother’s abductor. Jack nerds out there. If you like space, survival, math, downplaying danger, which added a little more was born in that room and doesn’t understand and humor, look no further than “The Martian.” of an authentic feel to the film. the idea of an outside world. This novel is Weir’s first book, and he deserves Initially I was confused by the narration a lot of credit for this one. The protagonist, the Congratulations Graduating Class of 2016! By Kevin A. Leiva Everyone at Visions Newspaper Wishes You Well Work. Family. Friends. Volunteer work. This is all to say: congratulations! Its often too force- we all collectively wish you success and We all have a host of things in our daily lives. easy to short change oneself at such a major ac- prosperity in your new paths. Every morning, many of us have much to jug- complishment. Most of all- as Editor in Chief of Vi- gle. On top of it all we need to make it to school It is the hopes of everyone at Visions sions, I hope none of you ever stop learning. on time for class, and with all our assignments Staff that each and every one of you succeeds Knowledge is such a precious resource; a day typed and ready to submit. in all your future endeavors. Whether that is to without learning is a day wasted, and one we For many- school isn’t easy, because life pursue a higher education, or to use the degree will never get back. Go out there, and don’t be cannot stop for you to type up that one essay. PCCC has equipped you with out in the work afraid to learn on!